James Bannon
Question:15 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if and when he will bring forward legislation to establish Culture Ireland on a statutory basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31552/07]
Written Answers.
The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 13, inclusive, answered orally.
Question No. 14 answered with QuestionNo. 9.
Legislative Programme.
Culture Ireland was established in 2005 as the new national agency for the promotion of Irish arts and culture worldwide, including music, theatre, dance, film, literature, visual arts, traditional arts, architecture, opera and circus.
Culture Ireland's Strategy recognises that arts and culture are among Ireland's strongest national achievements, which play a key role in creating global recognition for the country. They are also a key driver of Ireland's global attractiveness as a centre of creativity and innovation, and a destination for business and tourism. The agency was established to build on this competitive advantage for Ireland through strategic investment and development at a time of rapid national and international change. Culture Ireland's purpose is to promote and advance Irish arts in a global context, helping to create international opportunities for Irish artists and cultural practitioners and leading to a deeper mutual understanding between Irish and other cultures and communities.
Film Industry Development.
Liz McManus
Question:16 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on the tax breaks for the film industry here; the steps he has taken to ensure the extension of section 481 tax relief provision which is scheduled to expire at the end of 2007; if he will publish the Indecon report into film financing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31460/07]
The Section 481 scheme was unique in Europe when first introduced and was thus very successful in attracting foreign producers to make films here. In the intervening period other countries have copied it and, in some instances, offer incentives that are ahead of our approach. The UK, in particular, has strengthened funding for film and has a number of tax relief options available for film investment.
While primary responsibility for the support and promotion of film-making in Ireland in respect of both the indigenous sector and inward productions is a matter for the Irish Film Board, my Department's main operational role in supporting the film sector relates to the administration of elements of the Section 481 tax relief scheme.
The scheme is kept under regular review in conjunction with the Irish Film Board and the Department of Finance and any enhancements necessary to retain or regain competitiveness are addressed as appropriate. In this regard, the scheme was amended and enhanced in the Finance Acts of 2000, 2003, 2004, 2005 and in 2006.
The most recent review by Indecon arose from a commitment made by the Minister for Finance during his second stage speech for the Finance Bill 2007 to extend the scheme and, in that context. to review it to ensure that it was delivering the desired results.
In that regard, the Department of Finance, in conjunction with my Department, is currently examining the report prepared by Indecon International Economic Consultants on the case for improvement in respect of the Section 481 scheme. Indecon's terms of reference were to identify a structured and innovative way forward to develop and consolidate the Irish film industry, taking account of the serious international competition issues now apparent. The publication of the Indecon report is, however, a matter for the Department of Finance as the Department that commissioned it.
I am at all times committed to ensuring that the most advantageous system is put in place that allows the Irish film industry to develop and prosper, while delivering value for money to the Irish exchequer, and I will continue to strive to achieve that.
Heritage Fund.
Pat Breen
Question:17 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the status of the heritage fund and plans to have it replenished; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31505/07]
In the 1990s, the State's National Cultural Institutions, which are charged with enhancing and expanding the National Collections of cultural artefacts, had been experiencing increasing difficulties in acquiring privately owned artefacts, and collections of heritage importance, due to the high prices that such items were obtaining at sales and public auctions. In order to surmount these difficulties, the Heritage Fund Act, 2001 established the Heritage Fund with an overall limit of €12.697m over a five-year period. Funding for the Heritage Fund is held in the Heritage Fund Public Investment Account, an interest bearing account.
The five eligible institutions that may benefit from the Heritage Fund, are:
The National Archives,
The National Gallery of Ireland,
The National Library of Ireland,
The National Museum of Ireland, and
The Irish Museum of Modern Art.
The Heritage Fund remains in place and currently contains €203,725.59 in funding. This amount is below the amount laid down in the legislation for an individual acquisition and, as the existing legislation does not allow for the replenishment of the Fund, new primary legislation will be necessary to enable a new Heritage Fund to be established.
A review of the governance and operation of the Heritage Fund has been carried out for my Department. The findings of this review are being considered at present. While it would be inappropriate for me to comment on individual findings in the review, I can say that the review is very positive with regard to the Fund.
The Heritage Fund enables the relevant National Cultural Institutions to acquire heritage objects, which are outstanding examples of their type and pre-eminent in their class, and I am strongly in favour of the creation of a new Fund. As I have already mentioned, this will require new legislation. It will also require additional funding. I will be pursuing the renewal of the Fund in 2008.
Question No. 18 answered with QuestionNo. 9.
Sport and Recreational Development.
Pat Rabbitte
Question:19 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the progress made towards resolving the issue regarding Tallaght Stadium; his views on using the stadium as a mutli-purpose facility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31443/07]
I understand that the judicial review, which was sought by a local GAA club of the decision of South Dublin County Council to develop a stadium in Tallaght as a soccer facility, was heard in the High Court last month and that final judgement in the case is awaited. As this matter is still before the courts it would be inappropriate for me to make any further comment.
Sports Capital Programme.
Joan Burton
Question:20 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when he will make a decision regarding the announcement of the 2008 National Lottery funded sports capital programme; his views on whether it is appropriate that the date of the programme be purely at his discretion; his views on establishing a fixed date, which would allow clubs and organisations to better prepare their applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31450/07]
The Sports Capital Programme is the primary means of providing Government funding to sport and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. It has operated on an annual basis and is part funded from National Lottery funds.
A total of €568m has been allocated in sports capital funding since 1998 to 6,716 sports projects across the country. An additional €107.141m in capital funding has been provided towards the redevelopment of Croke Park. In 2007 €85m was allocated towards 935 separate projects.
The date of the next round of the Programme had 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 from my Department and on the Department's website. It is open to all sporting organisations, if they have a project which meets the terms and conditions of the Programme, to submit an application.
I am confident that the extensive advertising that accompanies the announcement of the Programme and the length of the application period means that all sporting organisations will have ample opportunity to submit an application.
The timing of the announcement of the Programme to which the Deputy refers is a matter which I will take into account in the future management of the Programme.
Arts Funding.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:21 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will take particular initiatives to promote the arts and associated facilities throughout the country in both urban and rural settings with particular reference to local identified need and support and the growing demand of the expanding population in conjunction with the development of a greater awareness of the arts and the need to tangibly accommodate such needs at local level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31653/07]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:96 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his Department’s policy is sufficiently sensitive to the need of locally based art groups, musical societies or others involved in local productions; if he will make changes to the criteria for qualifications of grant applications from community based groups involved in local productions with a view to ensuring a greater possibility of qualification thereby addressing a particular need; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31846/07]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:97 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his policy proposals to promote the arts at community level with particular reference to the capital requirements of such groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31847/07]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:98 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the extent to which he might be prepared to provide grant assistance to community based theatrical groups and musical societies involved in local productions with particular reference to areas where there is a dearth of such facilities in both urban and rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31848/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 21 and 96 to 98, inclusive, together.
Government Policy on the Arts is set out in the Programme for Government and will be elaborated further in my Department's Statement of Strategy 2008 – 2010 which is currently being developed. The objective is to encourage and support the strategic development of the arts in local communities, both geographic and communities of interest, for the disadvantaged and for minority groups.
In this regard, my Department has taken a direct role in relation to the provision of grant-aid for the arts and culture infrastructure throughout the country and has provided substantial funding for the capital development of facilities in all regions in recent years, having regard to factors such as sustainability and community requirements.
The main vehicle for such capital funding is the Arts and Culture Capital Enhancement Support Scheme (ACCESS), under which over €75 million has been granted to 107 arts and cultural facilities to date, since the scheme commenced in 2001. The ACCESS scheme is a key element in the Government's regional arts strategy and has greatly improved participation in the arts for large numbers of people nationwide. The scheme has been widely acknowledged as a significant intervention in the provision of quality cultural spaces.
When applications for funding under the next round of the ACCESS scheme are invited through advertisements in the national newspapers it will be open to any group to make an application, should they have a project that complies with the terms of the programme.
Question No. 22 answered with QuestionNo. 6.
State Airports.
Richard Bruton
Question:23 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the need from a tourism point of view of autonomous national airports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31541/07]
Issues in relation to airports policy generally are a matter for consideration by my colleague the Minister for Transport, Mr. Noel Dempsey.
In relation to aviation and tourism policy, I would draw the Deputy's attention to the report of the Tourism Policy Review Group, "New Horizons for Irish Tourism: An Agenda for Action", which highlighted the fact that one of the principal drivers of success of Irish tourism in recent years has been the improvement in the range, quality and competitiveness of air and sea access. In particular, increased capacity in air access and lower air fares have enhanced the attractiveness of Ireland as a destination.
Competitive and convenient air access — in terms of routes, capacity, services, frequency and fares — is expected to continue to be a crucial determinant for future international demand for tourism destinations, especially in the case of an island such as Ireland. In that context, the Tourism Policy Review Group noted that the decision to establish Dublin, Shannon and Cork airports as fully independent and autonomous authorities under State ownership is intended to have the effect of introducing further competition to encourage the development of new services, particularly to the regions.
Tourism Promotion.
Brian O'Shea
Question:24 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on the importance of e-marketing for tourism performance here; the policies being pursued by the Government in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31454/07]
Responsibility for tourism marketing is a matter for the tourism agencies and not one that my Department engages directly in. I am aware however, of the ever increasing importance of e-marketing in the tourism sector. In fact, recent research has shown that 70% of overseas holidaymakers book at least one element of their Irish holiday on the internet. With this in mind, I note that Tourism Ireland has doubled its digital marketing spend over the past three years and it now represents 14% of its total marketing budget. Furthermore, I was pleased to launch Tourism Ireland's 2008 Marketing Plan in Dublin yesterday. This Plan contains a commitment to further increase the company's digital marketing spend next year to 24% of its total marketing spend. The company is also in the process of finalising, with input from the tourism industry, Fáilte Ireland and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, a new e-Marketing strategy which will be delivered as part of the organisation's Corporate Plan for the period up to 2010.
Tourism Ireland already has 36 international websites in 15 different languages and is committed to investing in new innovative digital platforms and improving the functionality and usability of these websites in the years ahead. With this planned commitment and investment, I am confident that we will see continued strong growth from overseas markets and achieve the ambitious targets that have been set for the tourism sector in the years ahead.
Sport and Recreational Development.
Eamon Gilmore
Question:25 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on the increasing privatisation of leisure facilities here; if he foresees a future role for the State and local authorities in extending the provision of leisure facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31447/07]
I am not specifically aware of the privatisation of public leisure facilities that the Deputy's question seems to suggest. However, I am aware that some local authorities, in planning the operation and management of their municipal leisure facilities, engage the services of private sector sports facility operators on a contract basis. This has been the case in the operation and management of some public swimming pools grant aided under the Local Authority Swimming Pool programme. However, in all such cases, overall responsibility and control of the facility ultimately rests with the local authority.
That programme also provides for the grant aiding of swimming pools promoted by third parties, such as local community/swimming organisations, provided that, in the first instance, the grant application is submitted through and supported by the relevant local authority and secondly, the degree and terms of public access are specifically and formally agreed in advance between the Department and the local authority.
The Government is, of course, strongly committed to continued investment in the development of sports facilities. This is done in partnership with sports clubs, national governing bodies of sport and other important stakeholders such as local authorities and the education sector. The Sports Capital Programme and the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme are the primary means of providing capital funding to sport and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country and this is given effect in the National Development Plan 2007-2013 where of the €991m provided for the provision for sports infrastructure, €420m is provided in respect of the Sports Capital Programme and €184m is provided in respect of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme.
A total of €568m has been allocated in sports capital funding since 1998 to 6,716 sports projects across the country. An additional €107.141m in capital funding has been provided towards the redevelopment of Croke Park. In 2007 €85m was allocated towards 935 separate projects.
Brian O'Shea
Question:26 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his Department has carried out an audit of local sports facilities; if the findings of the audit have been published; the areas that are most in need of additional supports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31462/07]
As I have previously informed the House, the nationwide audit of sports facilities has commenced and is being carried out in stages to help speed up the availability of information. Phase One, which focuses on national and regional sports facilities, has now been completed within my Department. A database of sports facilities of national or regional significance has been compiled including details of facilities at third level educational institutions and swimming pools. Phase Two of the audit, which will commence shortly, is a more complex undertaking to establish a record of existing sports facilities at local level and identifying the need for future provision.
The audit is part of a wider exercise to put in place a more strategic approach to the provision of sports facilities in Ireland. The Programme for Government sets out a commitment to put in place a long-term strategic plan to ensure the development of necessary local facilities throughout the country, followed by year on year monitoring of improvements delivered.
A key objective in relation to the preparation of the National Sports Facility Strategy is to ensure consistency — on a nationwide basis — in relation to the completion of the audit facility so that inter-regional planning can be undertaken. With this in mind, the preparation of a guidance pack and audit toolkit for use by Local Authorities and /or Local Sports Partnerships to assist them in carrying out local audit has been prioritised as part of the Sports Facility Strategy. This element of the strategy will greatly help in the completion of the audit and the compilation of a comprehensive database on the range and nature of sporting facilities at national, regional and local level.
Tourism Industry.
Liz McManus
Question:27 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on the performance of the domestic market for tourism in 2007; the regional breakdown of visitors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31453/07]
I am very pleased that domestic tourism continues to grow as is evidenced by the latest figures released by the Central Statistics Office. These figures, which are available on the CSO website (www.cso.ie), show that in the first six months of this year the number of domestic holiday trips was up by more than 22% on the corresponding period of 2006, while expenditure on domestic holidays grew by over 37% in the same period.
I am particularly pleased to note that the figures show a good performance by all regions outside of Dublin, with most recording strong increases in both number of bed-nights and expenditure, compared to the corresponding period last year. The fact that Ireland continues to be one of the favourite holiday destinations of the Irish is very encouraging.
Sports Capital Programme.
David Stanton
Question:28 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the amount of funding allocated to disability organisations and groups under the sports capital programme in 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively; the total budget allocated under the programme for each of these years respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31666/07]
Under the sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, grants are allocated to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The funding allocated to sporting projects promoted by disability and special needs groups under the Sports Capital Programme in the years in question is contained in the table below:
|
Disability/Special Needs |
Total Allocation |
|
|
2007 |
€1.138 m |
€85,000,000 |
|
2006 |
€375,000 |
€75,000,000 |
|
2005 |
€275,000 |
€54,985,000 |
I should point out that funding allocations are made on foot of the applications received and the Deputy may be interested to note that in the most recent round of the programme, twelve applications seeking a total of €1.8 million were received from disability and special needs groups. Of these applications, ten groups received funding totalling €1.138 million and the remaining two applications were deemed invalid as they failed to meet the minimum requirements under the programme.
Tourism Promotion.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:29 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on new or additional policies being pursued by the Government in order to assist the promotion of the mid west region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31455/07]
The promotion of tourism to the Regions is a day-to-day function of the Tourism Agencies and I have no official responsibility in this regard. The Programme for Government provides a commitment to help the region concerned to "Seize the opportunities presented by the Open Skies arrangement with the US to substantially grow the number of US visitors".
Subject to Government approval, I would hope that the forthcoming Budget will provide me with the resources to help the Tourism Agencies deliver on that policy commitment through a special initiative in the coming year.
Denis Naughten
Question:30 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the steps he is taking to promote tourism in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30786/07]
Denis Naughten
Question:40 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the plans he has to improve the regional balance of inbound tourists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30787/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 30 and 40 together.
As I advised the Deputy on 25 October last, under the National Tourism Development Authority Act 2003, the individual actions and measures relating to tourism promotion or development at regional level are day-to-day functions of the State tourism agencies, as is the promotion of individual product segments such as rural tourism.
The Government has taken a number of steps to support the agencies in that regard. During 2007 the Government provided a 13% increase in the tourism budget compared to 2006, bringing the allocation to €159 million, the largest ever Exchequer budget for Irish tourism. More recently, a pre-budget estimate of almost €164 million was announced for 2008, an increase of 3%.
The National Development Plan 2007-2013 Transforming Ireland includes the largest ever Government investment programme for the development of Irish tourism. This tourism development programme, which provides for an €800 million Exchequer investment in tourism over the seven year period, has as one of its fundamental objectives the stimulation of regional development. The programme includes an international marketing sub-programme, which provides €335 million to promote the island of Ireland in key international markets. The key objective over the seven years will be to increase tourism revenue and visitor yield and to help achieve a wider regional and seasonal distribution of business.
It includes a product development and infrastructure sub-programme, which provides €317 million to upgrade and supplement our tourism attractions and activities and to deliver a national conference centre in Dublin. It also includes a training and human resource development sub-programme, which will invest €148 million in the education and training of the tourism workforce, both domestic and non-national, as well as sustaining structured educational opportunities in third level colleges and institutes of technology around the country. It will also provide for the continuation of initiatives aimed at improving management capability and networking in SMEs and micro-enterprises at regional level.
Sport and Recreational Development.
John O'Mahony
Question:31 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will implement any of the recommendations of the ERSI report Fair Play, Sport and Social Disadvantage in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31388/07]
I am aware that the Irish Sports Council, under its research remit, is striving to develop a profound understanding of sport in Ireland that can inform policy and investment over the coming years. It commissioned the Economic and Social Research Institute to undertake studies on its behalf. Four major reports have already been published, each one adding to our knowledge of sport in this country.
The fourth report in the series "Fair Play? Sport and Social Disadvantage in Ireland" set out to examine the impact of social disadvantage on various forms of participation in sport. The report concludes that the large majority of people who play sport in Ireland and who enjoy the health benefits arising from this physical activity are from higher income and better-educated social groups.
The report makes a clear case in support of substantial public expenditure to increase participation in sport, given the proven benefits of physical activity. This justifies the significant Government investment in sport in recent years. The budget for sport has increased from €17 million in 1997 to over €295 million in 2007. This significant investment has supported the promotion and development of Irish sport and the provision of a modern sporting infrastructure, with high quality facilities catering for the participation, coaching, training and competition needs of all levels and types of sport. Furthermore the National Development Plan 2007-2013 includes a commitment to provide €991 million for sport infrastructure during the period up to 2013.
The increased funding provided to the Irish Sports Council from €13 million in 2000 to over €54 million this year has enabled a number of significant interventions for the benefit of disadvantaged areas. Examples include the Local Sports Partnerships (LSP) network, the Buntús programme for primary schools in LSP areas (involving children in sport from a very young age), development officers in National Governing Bodies and special funding to the FAI, GAA and IRFU.
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 towards the provision of sport and recreational facilities. In total, since 1998, capital funding of €568 million has been allocated in respect of 6,716 projects all over Ireland at local, regional and national level. In addition, over €107 million has been allocated towards the development of Croke Park.
One of the stated objectives of the sports capital programme is to prioritise the needs of disadvantaged areas in the provision of sports facilities. In keeping with Government policy, allocations under the programme reflect special priority for the development of sports and recreational facilities in areas designated as disadvantaged i.e. RAPID, CLÁR and Local Drugs Task Force areas. My Department liaises closely with the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs with regard to continuing to prioritise applications for sports capital funding from areas designated by Government as disadvantaged. My Department is seeking to be more strategic in its approach to the future provision of Government funding for sports facilities. Development of the Department's National Sports Facilities Strategy is currently under way and research in this field, including the ESRI report in question, is being considered in that context. The Facilities Strategy should provide a better policy base for the more effective use of public funds and will assist in the targeting, support and funding of areas of greatest need.
With the National Sports Facility Strategy, together with the information from this report and from the three other reports in the ESRI Irish Sports Council series, we will have gained a better understanding of the dynamics of the Irish sports sector. The Irish Sports Council, with the support of my Department, is continuing its ambitious research programme, which will generate new and important information. This will allow for policy and investment decisions in the sports sector — a sector that has benefited from heavy and consistent public investment in recent years — to meet the challenges set out in the ESRI report in question.
Question No. 32 answered with QuestionNo. 9.
National Stadium.
Dan Neville
Question:33 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if the National Sports Campus project will qualify as a strategic planning project for consideration directly by An Bord Pleanála; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31546/07]
The issue of whether the National Sports Campus Development project comes within the scope of the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006 does not arise as this Act encompasses energy, transport and waste management related environmental projects only.
In relation to the Campus project and in terms of the Planning procedures, a Planning Study for the Abbotstown site, which is a requirement under a local objective of the Fingal County Development Plan, has been completed by an inter-agency group, which included my Department. This Study sets out the mix of sporting, leisure, and amenity facilities that would be appropriate for the site. The Planning Study was approved by Fingal County Council on 9 July and subsequently a Variation of the Fingal County Development Plan was adopted which will provide for the National Sports Campus. It is anticipated that planning permission will be sought in 2008 for Phase One of the Campus.
Joanna Tuffy
Question:34 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the progress on the development of the sports campus at Abbotstown; when he expects the contracts to be signed and work to begin; the cost of the Abbotstown project since its inception; if he is satisfied with the amount spent here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31446/07]
Olivia Mitchell
Question:90 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if the project management and design teams for the National Sports Campus have been appointed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31687/07]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:93 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the latest proposals for the completion of development at Campus Stadium Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31843/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 34, 90 and 93 together.
The Government has provided an amount of €149m in the National Development Plan 2007 to 2013 for the development of a National Sports Campus at Abbotstown. Prior to that, in January, 2004, the Government agreed to proceed, as financial resources permit, with the development of a Campus of Sports facilities at Abbotstown. The Government then approved in November, 2005 the commencement of Phase One of the development of the National Sports Campus on the basis of a Development Control Plan prepared by Campus and Stadium Ireland Development Company Ltd (CSID), the predecessor of the National Sports Campus Development Authority (NSCDA). These facilities will be designed to meet the indoor and outdoor training needs of Irish elite sportspersons who compete at national and international levels and will also provide for the needs of the local community.
The Government decision for this stage of development included agreement to move the HQ of the FAI to the former State Laboratory building at Abbotstown. Work on the building has now been completed and the FAI have recently taken possession of the building. It is also intended to provide a headquarters for the Institute for Sport by refurbishing an existing building on the site and preliminary planning on this project has commenced but no contractual arrangements have been entered into as yet.
A Planning Study for the Abbotstown site, which is a requirement under a local objective of the Fingal County Development Plan, has been completed by an inter-agency group, which included my Department. This Study sets out the mix of sporting, leisure, and amenity facilities that would be appropriate for the site. The Planning Study was approved at a meeting of Fingal County Council on 9 July last. Following on from this the site has been rezoned to provide for the development of the Campus. Since the Government decision early in 2004 to proceed with the Campus development, the cumulative cost of consolidating and developing the project thus far including the refurbishment of the building for the HQ of the FAI, has come to €12.39 million. Expenditure on the Campus prior to 2004, and chiefly involving the capital cost of the National Aquatic Centre opened in 2003, was €81 million of which €62.5 million (ex Vat) is attributable directly to the capital development of the Centre.
Preliminary planning for Phase One of the project has commenced and the NSCDA expects to be in a position to appoint a Design Team and a Project Management Team for the project in the near future. It is then the intention of the Authority to have detailed plans prepared, for the implementation of Phase One, and it is estimated that planning permission will be sought during the course of 2008.
The Abbotstown facilities, when completed will provide a much needed range of training and competitive facilities for our finest sportspersons. Through the National Aquatic Centre a top world class sports facility has already been provided. Now being progressed is the development of a state of the art complex of quality facilities to serve a wide spectrum of sport activities and disciplines which will benefit elite sports persons and the local community alike.
Youth Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:35 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his attention has been drawn to the need to provide extra grant aid to fund community based and financially assisted local initiatives involving the provision of youth services such as community centres, drop in centres and indoor facilities with the objective of providing positive alternative outlets for teenagers throughout the country having particular regard to the growing number of negative influences and their impact on young people; if he will take a strategic decision to implement such a policy to a far greater extent than has been the case heretofore; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31652/07]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:92 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if, in the course of the allocation of capital grants by his Department, he will give special consideration to areas experiencing rapid population expansion with a view to enhancing the availability of such facilities for young people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31842/07]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:99 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if through the various support schemes available through his Department he will give special consideration to areas of rapidly expanding population with a view to meeting social needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31849/07]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:100 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the extent to which he or his Department have become involved in the allocation of capital grants for the provision of community based facilities organised by groups involved in local initiatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31850/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 35, 92, 99 and 100 together.
My Department provides funding for the provision of Sporting, Arts and Culture facilities at local level. The criteria used for the allocation of such funds includes the likely level of demand for the facilities in question. Under the sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, grants are allocated to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country for the provision of sports facilities, including indoor sports facilities.
Eleven criteria are used when assessing local applications. The Department scores each application according to how well it meets these criteria. In this context, the assessment takes into account the current and planned levels of sports facilities in an area, the impact the proposed new facility will have on participation in sport as well as the priority of the proposed facility in relation to existing facilities. In this regard, the requirements of communities with increasing populations that are in need of enhanced facility provision are taken into account. There is also a focus on areas of disadvantage.
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. Furthermore I should maintain that in the period 2003-2006 grants to the value of €243.87m have been allocated to projects under the Sports Capital Programme.
While no date has been set for the 2008 Programme, advertisements announcing the next round of the Programme will be placed in the national press and application forms will be available at that stage. Applicants who feel that they have a project that meets the Guidelines, Terms and Conditions of the programme are free to apply at that stage.
Under the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme, which is also administered by my Department, grant aid is provided to local authorities towards the capital costs of a new or replacement public swimming pool or the refurbishment of an existing pool provided by local authorities themselves or by other bodies where the application for capital funding is supported by the local authority. Where a project is being undertaken by an organisation other than a local authority, the proposal must be considered, supported and submitted by the local authority. Before supporting such a project, the local authority would have to be satisfied that the proposal is viable, that the balance of funding required to complete the project is available and that the project when completed, would have a suitable level of public access.
Under the current round of the programme, the question of the location of public swimming pools is essentially a matter for local authorities. Projects are considered on a case-by-case basis and consideration is given to such issues as to whether the area is classified as disadvantaged, the number and geographical spread of similar projects within and between counties, the viability of the project, particularly in relation to operational and maintenance issues, overall funding package for the project, technical details and the Department's annual estimates provision for the Programme.
My Department is completing a Value for Money and Policy Review of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme at present. The Report is examining, among other things, how the programme has worked to date and what changes, if any, are required to ensure its effective and efficient delivery. Thereafter, following consideration of the recommendations in the Report, it is my intention to launch a new round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme as soon as possible. When the programme is re-opened, it will be open to all local authorities to submit applications under the terms that will apply. There is a provision of €184m in the National Development Plan, 2007-2013 in respect of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme.
Government Policy on the Arts is set out in the Programme for Government and will be elaborated further in my Department's Statement of Strategy for 2008-2010 which is currently being developed. The objective is to encourage and support the strategic development of the arts in local communities, both geographic and communities of interest, for the disadvantaged and for minority groups. In this regard, my Department has taken a direct role in relation to the provision of grant-aid for arts and culture infrastructure throughout the country and has provided substantial funding for the capital development of facilities in all regions in recent years, having regard to factors such as sustainability and community requirements.
The main vehicle for such capital funding is the Arts and Culture Capital Enhancement Support Scheme (ACCESS), under which over €75 million has been granted to 107 arts and cultural facilities to date, since the scheme commenced in 2001. The ACCESS scheme is a key element in the Government's regional arts strategy and has greatly improved participation in the arts for large numbers of people nationwide. The scheme has been widely acknowledged as a significant intervention in the provision of quality cultural spaces. When applications for funding under the next round of the ACCESS scheme are invited through advertisements in the national press it will be open to any group to make an application, should they have a project that complies with the terms of the programme.
I hope that the Deputies will agree that the programmes operated by my Department are well funded, are sufficiently flexible and accommodating to ensure that local communities are able to continue to ensure that our young people have activities which enable them to make gainful use of their leisure time.
Sports Funding.
Jack Wall
Question:36 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the progress he has made regarding the dispute between the GAA and GPA over funding; if he has facilitated meetings between the groups; if he will report on same; the solution he has proposed with regard to distributing the funding; his views on using the Sports Council as a vehicle for distributing these funds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31442/07]
Following extensive negotiations in recent weeks between my Department, the Irish Sports Council, the GAA and the GPA, I am pleased to inform the Deputy that an agreement has been reached on this issue. While player welfare is a separate issue for which the GAA has responsibility, I intend to make provision for the introduction of a scheme through the Irish Sports Council, which will recognise the outstanding contribution of Senior Gaelic Inter-County players to our indigenous sport, to meet additional costs associated with elite team performance and to encourage aspiring teams and players to reach the highest levels of sporting endeavour. In return the players will involve themselves in a number of social responsibilities, including working in close co-operation with the Local Sports Partnerships on a programme of visits to schools and club facilities as a part of an overall policy to increase participation in their sports. An amount of €3.5 million will be provided through the Irish Sports Council in 2008 to fund the scheme.
I set out below a copy of the agreement for the Deputy's information.Agreement between the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism and the Irish Sports Council, GAA and GPA to recognise the contribution of Senior Inter-County Players and additional costs associated with enhancing team performance.
Rationale.
Our Senior Inter-County players provide the window through which our National Games are viewed nationally and internationally. It is recognised that the successful teams prepare and train to the highest international standards for team sports and that the current scheme of tax relief for professional sports people cannot be applied to Gaelic players because of their amateur status. The Minister therefore, via the Irish Sports Council, in consultation with the GAA and the GPA, intends to introduce schemes to recognise the outstanding contribution of Gaelic Inter-County players to our indigenous sport, to meet additional costs associated with elite team performance and to encourage aspiring teams and players to reach the highest levels of sporting endeavour. These schemes will be based specifically on Championship participation, the GAA's blue riband competitions, commencing at the end of the National Leagues, and will operate as follows:
Annual Team Performance Scheme.
The Annual Team Performance Scheme will be based on the performance of teams during the championships and will apply to the 12 Gaelic football teams qualifying for the third round of the All-Ireland Qualifier series or reaching a Provincial Final, and the 12 hurling teams participating in the McCarthy Cup. The level of award available to teams will be calculated on a sliding scale increasing with continuing involvement in the Championships.
Annual Support Scheme for the Development of Excellence in the Indigenous Sports of Hurling and Gaelic football.
The Annual Support Scheme for the Development of Excellence will be based on the achievement of standards and performance-based criteria designed to raise/maintain the levels of preparation and skill of the teams and individuals not qualifying for the Team Performance Scheme. The GAA, the GPA and the Irish Sports Council will agree a set of standards and performance based criteria for counties and their senior team squads eliminated in the first two rounds of the All-Ireland Football Qualifiers, and those participating in the Tommy Murphy Cup, the Christy Ring and Nicky Rackard Cups. Recognising that the achievement of excellence necessitates increased sacrifice and effort by counties and individuals, this scheme will assist them in achieving/maintaining the required standards. Support will not be made available to individuals or squads that fail to meet minimum standards.
Funding
An amount of €3.5m will be provided in 2008 to fund these schemes.
County committees, team management and players representatives in participating counties will develop improvement plans with measurable goals and objectives, agreed with the ISC, and consistent with national GAA coaching and games development policy. The supports will be based on the following criteria:
County Committee Responsibilities:
Establish and agree key performance indicators with team management. This will involve identifying squad targets and objectives, formulating an appropriate training regime/plan, establishing a code of conduct to which all parties give agreement and the provision of comprehensive information and advice on the anti-doping code. These indicators, objectives and requirements will be incorporated in the proposed Charter for inter county teams and County Committees.
Provision, as appropriate, of qualified personnel to enhance player/team development. This to include advice and support in all aspects of team and individual fitness, nutrition, health and well-being associated with playing the games.
A system to take account of players joining or departing from the county squad will be agreed.
Ensure the presence of certified medical personnel at all inter-county games.
Player Responsibilities:
Attend at least 80% of all training sessions/matches. This commitment will also apply to injured/rehab personnel except where excused.
Demonstrate improvement through regular fitness testing.
Keep updated training log/diary.
Strict adherence to anti-doping code.
Players who violate the code will not receive awards
Injured players will be expected to meet a set of agreed minimum requirements to demonstrate that they are participating satisfactorily in the rehabilitation process in order to receive an award.
Players will commit to participate in an agreed level of coaching and games development work in their county on a voluntary basis. In co-operation with the Local Sports Partnerships players will visit schools and youth facilities as part of an overall policy to promote increased participation in their sports.
Players will involve themselves in initiatives at county and national level to promote their sports as a healthy activity for all ages.
Any Inter County Squad or Player may decline the amount.
Conditions:
1Funding for the above schemes will be provided annually through the Irish Sports Council to the GAA and the criteria and arrangements for their disbursement will be agreed by the GAA, the GPA and the ISC.
2These schemes will be additional to, and will not negatively impact on, existing funding or any future funding, provided by the Government to the GAA through the ISC.
3All parties recognise the amateur status of the GAA and nothing in this agreement will undermine that amateur status.
4The schemes will be administered by a National Committee with player/ administrative representatives of the GAA and GPA. Committees to administer the schemes at county level will also be established.
5Dispute resolution will be carried out by the National Committee whose decisions will be final.
6This agreement applies to senior inter-county football and hurling panels only. Funding will be based on panels to a maximum of 30 players.
7Any tax liability that might arise from these schemes is the responsibility of the individual player.
8Player welfare is a separate issue for which the GAA takes full responsibility.
9The schemes will be subject to a tri-annual independent review to be carried out under the aegis of the ISC.
Child Protection.
Joan Burton
Question:37 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on establishing a child protection unit in sport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31464/07]
According to "Children First: National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children" (September 1999) the two agencies with statutory responsibility for child protection are the Health Service Executive (HSE) and An Garda Síochána. Notwithstanding this, I appreciate and share the Deputy's concerns with regard to this issue. I am assured by the Irish Sports Council, the statutory body responsible for the promotion and development of sport, that it endeavours to ensure a strong child-centred approach within sports organisations.
I am informed by the Council that in 2005, in order to ensure that it was in line with relevant current legislation, publications, policies and practices, it reviewed its "Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children's Sport in Ireland". This Code is built upon a number of core principles relating to the importance of childhood, the needs of the child, integrity and fair play, and relationships and safety in children's sport and is in line with the National Guidelines. It addresses issues relating to the roles and responsibilities of all involved in children's sport, and underpins the importance of policies and procedures in providing quality leadership for children in sport. It outlines principles of good practice and child protection policy and procedures. It is the view of the ISC that the full application of this Code of Ethics by everyone in sport will help to ensure the promotion of happy, healthy and successful experiences for children and their Sports Leaders.
In addition, the Council has informed me that it provides support and training to sporting clubs and bodies under its remit, to assist them in developing a safe and child-centred environment for sport. It is also assisting National Governing Bodies of Sport (NGBs) in accessing Garda vetting and has worked with each NGB to help it develop its own code of best practice.
Tourism Industry.
Emmet Stagg
Question:38 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on the performance of the British market for tourism in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31452/07]
The latest figures published by the Central Statistics Office show that there was an increase of over 4% in the number of overseas visitors to Ireland in the first nine months of the year compared to the same period in 2006. While it will be challenging to maintain the record-breaking performance of 2006, these latest CSO figures confirm that Ireland's tourism sector continues to perform at a very impressive level. The number of visitors from Britain for the first nine months of the year is down by 1% compared to the same period in 2006. It should be noted however, that the numbers coming to Ireland from Britain for Holiday purposes were actually up by almost 4% for the first half of the year.
Also, there is evidence that the decline in sea passenger traffic, seen in recent years has halted. The sea carriers are reporting encouraging numbers and this is positive for both regional dispersal and length of stay. It should be noted that the drop in visitors from Britain so far this year is consistent with a general trend of reduced numbers of outward travellers from Great Britain to European destinations. It is believed that interest rate increases may be impacting on consumer discretionary spending power. In addition, the poor summer weather probably impacted negatively on outbound travel to destinations within Western Europe other than those promising sun.
Successful marketing, in any field, does require ongoing monitoring of markets and appropriate adjustment of campaigns. Tourism is no exception. Great Britain continues to be the largest single market for the island of Ireland. Competition in this market is intense with a huge range of new destinations on offer to the consumer. Nevertheless, Tourism Ireland has set ambitious targets for growth from Great Britain over the next three years. Tourism Ireland will therefore be closely monitoring marketing conditions in the months ahead and refining marketing campaigns accordingly to ensure these targets are met.
North-South Ministerial Council.
Sean Sherlock
Question:39 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the discussions he has had with the North-South Ministerial Council to bring about the merger of functions between Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31451/07]
I can inform the Deputy that I have had no such discussions with the North-South Ministerial Council.
Question No. 40 answered with QuestionNo. 30.
Tax Collection.
Ciaran Lynch
Question:41 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the number of tax payers in 2006 or the most recent year for which complete figures are available, who returned incomes of €38,000 or less; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31702/07]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated number of income earners on the income tax records in 2006 earning gross income of €38,000 or less is projected at 1,452,000. Gross income is income before adjustments are made in respect of capital allowances, interest paid, losses, allowable expenses, retirement annuities etc. but after deduction of superannuation contributions by employees.
The figure is an estimate from the Revenue tax-forecasting model using actual data for the year 2004 adjusted as necessary for income and employment growth for the year in question. It is, therefore, provisional and likely to be revised. It should be noted that a married couple who has elected, or has been deemed to have elected, for joint assessment is counted as one tax unit.
Flood Relief.
Michael Creed
Question:42 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 73 of 11 October 2007 and further questions on the same matter dated 25 October 2007, if he will answer the question posed for the third time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31719/07]
The Office of Public Works have not committed funds to works in Ballymakeera to date. Cork County Council contacted the OPW last week indicating that the Council now had a costed proposal to carry out minor works downstream of the village and inquiring whether the OPW would fund these works. The Council were advised to submit their proposals to OPW for consideration. The proposal is awaited.
Decentralisation Programme.
Jack Wall
Question:43 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position of the decentralisation programme of his Department to Athy, County Kildare; the number assigned to the advance section of his Department; when this advance section will be placed in Athy; the number of applications received in relation to this group or personnel to receive training; the period of training envisaged; if same has commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31752/07]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that an advance party of forty-nine (49) officers are due to occupy temporary accommodation in Athy on 3 December 2007. Training has been provided on an on-going basis to staff who are due to go to Athy from the Kildare Revenue District resources. Staff have been assigned to the District during the last two years.
As new staff are assigned to the Kildare Revenue District prior to the move to Athy, further training will be provided from the Kildare Revenue District resources. Where additional formal training is required from the Training Branch, this will be prioritised.
Drug Seizures.
Ciaran Lynch
Question:44 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the number of drug seizures, where the estimated value of the drugs seized has exceeded €100,000, since the year 2000; and the estimated value of drugs recovered in such seizures. [31793/07]
Ciaran Lynch
Question:45 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the estimated value of drugs seized and destroyed by the State since the year 2000. [31794/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 44 and 45 together.
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the number of drug seizures by Customs where the estimated street value was €100,000 or greater since 1 January 2000 is 145. The total estimated street value of all such seizures is €302 million.
The total estimated street value of all drugs seized by Customs since 1 January 2000 is €319 million. All of these drugs have been destroyed apart from current seizures where disposal instructions have not yet been issued, cases currently under investigation and cases currently before the courts where the drugs are held as evidence.
Motor Fuels.
Denis Naughten
Question:46 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the steps he is taking to provide a similar support to the fuel duty rebate scheme for passenger bus transport services which is being withdrawn; if is attention has been drawn to the impact this will have on the development of public transport, particularly in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31796/07]
The 2003 EU Energy Tax Directive incorporated special derogations which allowed specific excise duty reliefs to be applied in a number of Member States. In the Irish context, these derogations allowed for reduced rates to apply to fuel used for public transport services which includes school transport services.
While these derogations expired on 31 December 2006, Ireland, along with other Member States, sought retention of its derogations beyond that date. However the European Commission, who are the deciding authority, have to date refused all such requests. The Commission maintain that, in keeping with the EU Energy Tax Directive, Member States must apply at least the EU minimum rates of excise on fuels in such circumstances and that any further favourable excise treatment is not allowable. In this regard the Commission's decision was published on its website in March 2007. At the Commission's behest my officials have indicated that Ireland will avail of the forthcoming Finance Bill to make the necessary legislative changes to conform with the Directive.
In the circumstances, the relevant line Departments who have primary responsibility in this regard are, in conjunction with my Department, exploring alternative non-tax support mechanisms that could be put in place where appropriate to maintain the assistance currently being provided, subject of course to compatibility with EU State Aid requirements. In the interim the reduced rates applicable to fuel used will be maintained.
Tax Collection.
Willie Penrose
Question:47 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he will take steps to have an application for VAT repayment by a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath dealt with, as same has been outstanding for some months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31798/07]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the VAT claim in respect of the person in question in County Westmeath has been approved for repayment on 27 November 2007.
Defence Forces Retirement Scheme.
Richard Bruton
Question:48 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if Army officers are eligible to pay AVC’s or pay into PRSA’s; the reason these options do not apply; and when he expects to introduce the SPEARS system. [31810/07]
There is an approved AVC scheme in place for enlisted personnel of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) which is restricted to death in service benefit. There is no AVC scheme in place for Commissioned Army Officers. It would be a matter for the Revenue Commissioners to consider any application for an AVC scheme if one was submitted to them for approval. In this regard, it would be open to the Defence Forces Representative Associations to pursue approval for an AVC scheme for their members with the Revenue Commissioners. It might be noted that the relevant provisions of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 preclude Revenue from approving any such scheme that allows payment of benefits prior to age 50. As regards PRSAs, it would be open to any individual member of the PDF, in consultation with a PRSA provider, to determine if they would be entitled to contribute to a PRSA. In this regard, the restriction relating to payment of benefits prior to age 50 would also be a factor.
Under existing occupational pension arrangements applying to personnel recruited prior to April 2004, members of the PDF are eligible for the immediate payment of superannuation benefits regardless of age and after relatively short periods of service. Immediate pension and gratuity is payable after a minimum of 12 years' service to Commissioned Officers and after 21 years to enlisted personnel, potentially well before age 50 in either case. There is no provision for the preservation of benefits.
The Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004 provides for the making of a new occupational pension scheme to apply to military personnel recruited as new entrants to the Permanent Defence Force on or after 1 April 2004. As provided for in that Act, there will be a minimum pension age of 50 for all new entrant personnel. This means that pensions and gratuities will not ordinarily be payable immediately on discharge/retirement except in the case of personnel who serve to age 50 years, while preservation of benefits will apply otherwise. The new scheme will bring Defence Forces pension arrangements more into line with public service pension schemes generally. In that regard, it is envisaged that in common with other public service schemes, the new military scheme will include appropriate provision for the purchase of notional service at full actuarial cost to the individual. I am advised that discussions between the Management Side and the Defence Forces Representative Associations about the detailed terms of the new pension scheme, and certain improvements in existing pension terms, are nearing conclusion.
As regards SPEARS, the Commission on Public Service Pensions recommended that SPEARS (AVC or group-PRSA arrangement) should be introduced, while at the same time, it also recommended that existing schemes for the purchase of notional service should be phased out. As agreed by the Government in September 2004, SPEARS was to be the subject of further consideration. In this regard, the Staff Side has been consulted and any decision in relation to SPEARS will have to await the outcome of such consultations. I am not in a position to indicate when this process will be completed.
Freedom of Information.
Joan Burton
Question:49 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if, with reference to his Department’s circular number 20 of 1998, dealing with the classification of material by Departments as top secret, following upon a Government decision that the classification top secret should in future be applied to particularly sensitive material which, because of its nature or content, should receive only very limited circulation, other Departments have in the years since 1998 undertaken a formal review at Assistant Secretary level, of the amount of and necessity for material classified as top secret, on a regular basis at a minimum of once a year as required by his Department’s circular; the outcome of those reviews; the actions taken as a result of those reviews; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31863/07]
Circular 20/98 deals with the classification of material as "top secret" and, inter alia, requires individual Departments to decide on the classification, necessity and amount of their own "top secret" material and to provide for formal reviews in this regard at Assistant Secretary level. Accordingly, the responsibility for carrying out reviews on their own material rests with Departments themselves. The outcome of such reviews and action taken as a result of them is a matter for individual Departments. I would like to advise the Deputy that my Department is reviewing this matter and a revised circular will issue at an early date.
Pharmacy Regulations.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:50 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the threat to jobs in the pharmaceutical sector posed by the proposed changes in reimbursement of pharmacists for drugs dispensed under the medical card scheme, both at wholesale and at retail level, as outlined in the submissions of representatives of retail pharmacists and of a company (details supplied) to Indecon, and implied by the warnings of potential negative impacts and market disruption contained in the Indecon report on pharmacy wholesale margins; if the potential negative impact of these changes in terms of economic competitiveness and viability on young pharmacists who have incurred high set-up costs in recent years is of particular concern to her; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31763/07]
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:57 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress that has been made towards a resolution of the issues involving pharmacists and the Health Service Executive over changes to the scheme for reimbursement of drugs dispensed under the medical card scheme; the role independent arbitration can play in achieving a resolution; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31764/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 50 and 57 together.
I have previously outlined in detail to the Oireachtas the legal provisions under competition law which prevent the Health Service Executive (HSE) from negotiating with the Irish Pharmaceutical Union (IPU) on fees, prices or margins for their members. When it became clear that the HSE could not negotiate with pharmacists or wholesalers on fees or margins, a detailed, fair and transparent consultation process, including independent economic analysis and public consultation, was carried out to inform the final determination of the new reimbursement pricing arrangements for drugs and medicines under the GMS and community drugs schemes. 161 submissions were received by the HSE, of which 143 were from community pharmacy contractors. These new arrangements were announced by the HSE on 17th September 2007. The new price arrangements for community supply were planned to take effect from 1st January for wholesalers and, due to the structure of the reimbursement system, would have come into effect from 1st December 2007 for community pharmacists. The independent economic analysis was carried out by Indecon Economic Consultants and was published by the HSE on 13 November 2007. All aspects of the Indecon analysis were considered by the HSE in making its determination. Full consideration was also taken of public submissions received.
In regard to the new reimbursement prices, the main wholesaler companies have confirmed to the HSE that when the new arrangements are given effect, they will charge community pharmacists the same price for these drugs and medicines as pharmacists will be reimbursed by the HSE for these products. Furthermore, there are no changes planned by the HSE to the operation of the GMS medical card and community drugs schemes, and all patients continue to receive their entitlements in the normal way.
My Department understands that the HSE has not received formal notification from any community pharmacist regarding cessation of services under the GMS or the various community drugs schemes. They will be required to give three months notice in writing of any intention to cease providing this service.
To address concerns expressed by the IPU, on behalf of community pharmacists, about the implications of the legal advice on competition law on their right to negotiate fees through the Union, a process of dialogue was established, chaired by Bill Shipsey SC, to explore ways in which concerns raised by the IPU about the implications of this legal advice might be addressed. I am also exploring, in consultation with the Attorney General, the other relevant Government Departments and the HSE, the best way of progressing the development of a new contract with pharmacists. There is ongoing engagement between the Irish Pharmaceutical Union and the HSE under the auspices of Mr. Shipsey and, in view of the progress in this regard, the HSE has decided to defer the implementation of the new reimbursement rates planned to take effect for community pharmacists on 1st December 2007 to a later date.
Nursing Education.
Pádraic McCormack
Question:51 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Health and Children the proposals she has to set up a conversion course here where nurses qualified as SENs in England can upgrade their qualifications to State registered nurse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31704/07]
The State Enrolled Nurse (SEN) qualification is a United Kingdom qualification which is not recognised in this country as training for it is deemed insufficient to qualify as a nurse registered with An Bord Altranais. Persons who have obtained this qualification must undertake a nursing conversion programme in the United Kingdom in order to qualify for registration as a nurse. Unfortunately it is not possible to provide such a programme here.
However, there is a grant available from the HSE to assist State Enrolled Nurses (SENs) undertaking nursing conversion programmes in the United Kingdom. Under this initiative any SEN working in the Irish health service who wishes to undertake such a programme will be entitled to receive a non-means-tested grant of €7,618 towards the overall costs (including college fees, textbooks, travel and accommodation) involved in attending the programme in the United Kingdom. Payment of the grants will be subject to the SEN giving a written undertaking that s/he will work as a nurse in the Irish health service following registration with An Bord Altranais.
Health Services.
Ned O'Keeffe
Question:52 Deputy Edward O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will investigate the medical needs of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [31706/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall Vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Michael Creed
Question:53 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will investigate the case of late autism diagnosis for a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will arrange to have all necessary professional services, dietary, counselling, occupational therapy, educational and so on made available to this child. [31720/07]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Departmental Transport.
Noel O'Flynn
Question:54 Deputy Noel O’Flynn asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of money paid for taxi services in counties (details supplied) by the Health Service Executive for the purpose of transporting patients and employees of the HSE with a breakdown of the figures in each county showing the amount received by each taxi operator; when was the last time the tender process was used for this service or if the service ever went to tender; the way persons or companies operating a taxi service are selected to provide the service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31737/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall Vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Hospital Services.
Joe Costello
Question:55 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) will have their operation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31747/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Decentralisation Programme.
Frank Feighan
Question:56 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon is on the priority list for a transfer from the Department of Social and Family Affairs to the General Registrar’s Office in her Department in Roscommon; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31761/07]
Under the Government's Decentralisation programme civil servants wishing to transfer are obliged to register their application for a transfer on the Central Applications Facility (CAF). The CAF is managed by the Department of Finance. My Department has been advised by that Department that the individual concerned, in addition to a number of other officers has a priority application on CAF for the General Register Office (GRO), Roscommon. The individual concerned has not applied to be included on this Department's Central Transfer List to the General Register Office, Roscommon. The Deputy may wish to note that responsibility for the GRO is due to transfer from my Department to the Department of Social and Family Affairs from the 1st January 2008.
Question No. 57 answered with QuestionNo. 50.
National Treatment Purchase Fund.
Jack Wall
Question:58 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of applications received to date in 2007 under the national purchase scheme; the way this number compares to other years; the cost to date in 2007 of the accepted applications; if a cap has been placed on the number of applications in 2007; if so, the number of applications on the waiting list for the service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31770/07]
As the Deputy's question relates to the operation of the National Treatment Purchase Fund, my Department has asked the Chief Executive of the Fund to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to the information requested.
Nursing Homes Repayment Scheme.
Denis Naughten
Question:59 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 425 of 26 September 2007 regarding the issue of interest owing to long stay patients, the recommendations and conclusion as a result of these meetings; the estimate of the value of interest which is owed to patients; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31797/07]
My Department has received legal advice on this issue indicating that any past interest retained should be repaid in full. The HSE has received independent legal advice and has clarified certain issues in advance of initiating the refund of interest retained. The HSE is preparing proposals on the administrative process which would be most suitable and equitable to facilitate the refund of interest to clients, given the significant logistical and practical issues involved in arranging to credit all past interest due to all clients over an extended timeframe. Officials from my Department will continue to liaise with the HSE in this regard. The HSE has informed my Department that the current estimate for total past interest retained up to the end of 2005 is approximately €31m. When this figure is adjusted for inflation, using the Consumer Price Index, the total figure amounts to approximately €48m.
National Treatment Purchase Fund.
Áine Brady
Question:60 Deputy Áine Brady asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of patients from County Kildare who have been treated under the National Treatment Purchase Fund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31801/07]
As the Deputy's question relates to the operation of the National Treatment Purchase Fund, my Department has asked the Chief Executive of the Fund to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to the information requested.
Mental Health Services.
Paul Kehoe
Question:61 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children when there will be a 24 hour psychiatric service for County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31802/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. The Executive, therefore, is the appropriate body to consider the particular 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.
Nursing Home Subventions.
Richard Bruton
Question:62 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if she plans to increase any of the thresholds for 2008 in respect of the nursing home subvention 2007 which can continue to apply to persons who are resident in nursing homes before 1 January 2008; and the thresholds which will apply in 2008 (details supplied). [31806/07]
There are no plans to change the rate of subvention, or any of the thresholds referred to by the Deputy, for 2008. The subvention scheme is being replaced by the improved nursing home support scheme, A Fair Deal. The existing subvention scheme will be phased out over time. In addition, not all of the thresholds and disregards to which the Deputy refers preclude an individual from receiving a subvention. While the legislation provides that the Health Service Executive may refuse a subvention in certain cases, the HSE Guidelines for the Standardised Implementation of the Subvention Scheme state that all such applications should be processed in full with subvention only being denied on the basis of excess means as determined in accordance with the financial assessment.
Richard Bruton
Question:63 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the way assets other than the family home will be treated in deciding the contribution a person will be expected to make towards nursing home costs before a deferred charge against that person’s share of the family home will be registered. [31807/07]
Under the new nursing home support scheme, people who require long-term residential care will contribute up to 80% of their assessable income, whether for public or private nursing home care. Assessable income includes, for example, State and personal pensions, as well as a 5% contribution from liquid assets. Depending on the amount of a person's assessable income, there will also be a contribution of up to 5% of a person's non-liquid assets. The portion of the contribution relating to non-liquid assets, such as a person's house, may be deferred. This means that it does not have to be met during the person's lifetime and can be payable on settlement of the person's estate instead. The deferred contribution will be based on the actual number of weeks spent in residential care and on the cost of care and, consequently, may be less than 5% per annum. I would take this opportunity to emphasise that no one will pay more than the cost of their care.
Where the deferred contribution applies to the principal private residence, it will be capped at a maximum of 15%, or 7.5% in the case of one spouse remaining in the home while the other enters long-term residential care. This means that after three years in care, a person will not be liable for any further deferred contribution based on the principal residence. It also means that 85% of the value of the principal residence may be maintained for the beneficiaries of the person's estate. This is not something that can be guaranteed at the moment. A person or his/her family can also choose to pay the deferred contribution at the time when care is being received instead of allowing it to be levied upon the estate if they so wish. Where a spouse or certain dependants are living in the principal residence, the deferred contribution in respect of the residence can be further deferred until after the death of that spouse or dependant, or until such time as a person previously qualifying as a dependant ceases to qualify as such. The final details of the Bill are being addressed at present. The Minister proposes to publish the Bill as soon as possible, following Government approval.
Ambulance Service.
David Stanton
Question:64 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of ambulance drivers employed by the Health Service Executive nationally; the number of drivers on permanent contracts; the number of vacancies for ambulance drivers nationally; her plans to fill such vacancies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31817/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. The Executive, therefore, is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
David Stanton
Question:65 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the arrangements made to provide ambulance cover over the Christmas 2007 period; if she is satisfied with such arrangements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31818/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services, including ambulance services, is a matter for the Health Service Executive and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall Vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Andrew Doyle
Question:66 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children if the spatial study analysis for the ambulance service is being undertaken for all counties; and if an analysis is being carried out on the ambulance service in County Wicklow. [31820/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services, including ambulance services, is a matter for the Health Service Executive and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall Vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Child Care Services.
Bernard Allen
Question:67 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there are genuine concerns that the new childcare subvention scheme will result in parents of children utilising the services presently provided by not for profit service creches in Cork City and County having to pay substantially higher fees resulting in some parents withdrawing their children, placing at risk the continuing financial viability of those childcare services and placing at risk the employment security of those providing the services; if she will take immediate action to address these concerns; and her proposed amendments to the proposed childcare subvention scheme. [31822/07]
Bernard Allen
Question:68 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the not for profit service crèches registered in Cork City and Cork County; and the ones that will be affected by the new childcare subvention scheme. [31823/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 67 and 68 together.
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. 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.
With the closure of the EOCP in December 2007, to continue to support community childcare services to provide affordable childcare to disadvantaged parents, the Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCSS) is being introduced from January 2008 under the Exchequer funded National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP), the successor programme to the EOCP. The CCSS has been allocated €153 million over the next 3 years, representing a 16% increase in funding over the EOCP staffing scheme, and will continue to support community childcare services to provide reduced childcare fees for disadvantaged parents, complementing the universal supports in place for all parents. Under the new scheme, it will be possible to ensure that the level of grant aid which individual services qualify for will reflect the actual level of service they provide and the profile of the parents benefiting from their service. As part of their application for funding under the new scheme, services are required to ask parents using their services to complete a simple declaration form which will be included in a return to my Office and on which basis the level of subvention for each service will be determined. The subvention received by services will, in turn, 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) or parents in receipt of Family Income Supplement (FIS), will see a weekly subvention in respect of their child. A higher subvention 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 for subvention 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 is being used to monitor and review the impact it will have on individual groups, on the basis of the more detailed and comprehensive data received this month. Where 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.
Ninety two childcare facilities in Cork City and County which are in receipt of staffing grant assistance under the EOCP have been invited to apply for funding under the new Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCSS). Applications from Groups entering the new scheme are currently being processed and when validated, these Groups are issued with letters from the Childcare Directorate of my Office approving transitional funding under the NCIP Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCSS). To date thirty eight Groups in Cork City and County have been approved transitional funding. This funding will, for the first six months of 2008, be based on the level of funding currently being provided to the Group under the EOCP staffing support grant scheme and subject to the necessary contractual arrangement with Pobal, who manage the day to day operation of the EOCP and NCIP.
Frank Feighan
Question:69 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps she is taking to provide play therapy in County Roscommon. [31827/07]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Health Services.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:70 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive to Parliamentary Question No. 200 of 23 October 2007. [31836/07]
The Health Service Executive has advised that a reply issued to the Deputy on 12 November 2007.
Health Service Staff.
David Stanton
Question:71 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children when the Health Service Executive or her Department will appoint orthopaedic surgeons to operate on babies and children in HSE south; the number of such surgeons currently appointed to HSE south; the number of vacancies in the region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31839/07]
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 its 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 directly to the Deputy.
Hospital Waiting Lists.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:72 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if an urgent hospital appointment will be arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31853/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall Vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Health Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:73 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason home help hours were withdrawn in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31855/07]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Nursing Homes Repayment Scheme.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:74 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when payment under the health repayment scheme in respect of persons in residential institutions will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31856/07]
The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.
Hospital Services.
James Reilly
Question:75 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if the allocation of cancer services to Mullingar, Tullamore and Portlaoise Hospitals (details supplied) were approved by her; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31865/07]
Between 2000 and 2004 when the Health Service Executive (HSE) took over responsibility for the funding of cancer services, a total of €5.5 million was allocated by my Department for oncology/haematology services, including symptomatic breast disease services, to the former Midland Health Board.
Consultancy Contracts.
Tony Gregory
Question:76 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Transport if he will amend the terms of reference his Department has given to transport consultants Booz, Allen and Hamilton in relation to the Broadstone alignment to take into the account the ongoing preparation by Dublin City Council of a local area plan for Phibsborough/Mountjoy since the area covered by the plan includes the Broadstone alignment; if he will specifically ask the consultants to examine the two tier use of the alignment for both LUAS and heavy rail services proposed in the pre-draft submission to Dublin City Council on the local area plan by an association (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31692/07]
The consultants have considered the technical and operational feasibility if a two tier use of the old Broadstone alignment and will comment on it in their report.
Rail Services.
Joe Carey
Question:77 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Transport his plans for the provision of level crossings along the Galway to Ennis rail line in view of the opening of the western rail corridor; if a fully automated crossing will be provided for the Ballyogan Road in Barefield, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31754/07]
The detailed design and implementation of the Western Rail Corridor including the provision of level crossings is a matter for Iarnród Éireann.
Appointments to State Boards.
Joe Carey
Question:78 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Transport if he will ensure that when appointing the two outstanding vacancies to the board of Aer Lingus, that at minimum one of the appointees would be a representative of the mid west region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31756/07]
The State is entitled under the Memorandum and Articles of Association to appoint three directors to the board of Aer Lingus. Currently there is one State appointed director serving on the board and I hope to be in a position to nominate two further candidates for appointment to the board in the near future.
The State's appointees will seek to ensure that all future decisions of the Company, that have significant implications for wider government, aviation or regional development policies, including issues impacting on the mid-west regions, are considered at board level. This will give the State appointees the opportunity to raise the public policy implications of each decision and to ensure that the full commercial implications for the company are taken into account.
Air Services.
Joe Carey
Question:79 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Transport his views on the retention and development of the Aer Lingus transatlantic routes which service Shannon Airport; his further views on the fact that Aer Lingus have only committed to serving the routes up to the end of the summer schedule 2008; if he will instruct the Government board members of Aer Lingus to work for a real commitment from Aer Lingus and that the company will continue to operate a full comprehensive transatlantic service to Shannon Airport for a minimum period of five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31757/07]
In its press release of 7th November 2007, Aer Lingus outlined its planned schedule for 2008, which represents significant increased capacity on its long haul network. Aer Lingus also reaffirms its commitment to serving the transatlantic market to/from Shannon Airport operating daily direct flights from Shannon to Boston, Shannon to New York and daily flights to Chicago via Dublin.
Through a new link-up with US carrier JetBlue access to/from Shannon will be possible via 50 airports in the US, Mexico and the Caribbean.
Shannon Airport is ideally placed to exploit the vast opportunities arising from the EU US Open Skies Agreement brokered earlier this year which will come fully into effect at the end of March next year. Experience in the EU context has shown that the full liberalisation of air services leads to increased competition, lower fares and the growth and development of a wider range of air services. In this context Shannon Airport Authority is making preparations to allow it to rise to the challenges and opportunities presented by Open Skies to allow it to compete for its share of the new expanding transatlantic market, with a view to securing increased connectivity to the US over the longer term. It is important to remember that under open skies new services may be inaugurated by any US or EU carrier between any point in the US and Shannon. The future provision of transatlantic services is not a matter for Aer Lingus only. In this context I welcome the media reports this week suggesting that a US based tour operator is set to operate 12 weekly flights from six US cities to Shannon Airport.
With regard to the State's representation on the Board of Aer Lingus, the State's appointees will seek to ensure that all future decisions of the Company, that have significant implications for wider government, aviation or regional development policies, including issues impacting on the mid-west regions, are considered at board level. This will give the State appointees the opportunity to raise the public policy implications of each decision and to ensure that the full commercial implications for the company are taken into account.
Air Accident Investigations.
Ciaran Lynch
Question:80 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Transport if he has received a report of an incident on 17 October 2007 at Cork Airport in which an aircraft due to depart for the UK was pushed onto the taxi way without the correct procedures being followed, that the baggage hold was left unsecured and that the aircraft had to power down its engines to enable ground staff to secure the hold; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31767/07]
Safety oversight for civil aviation in Ireland is the responsibility of the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA). I am informed by the IAA that they have received no reports of this incident.
Tax Code.
Denis Naughten
Question:81 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the steps he is taking to provide a similar support to the fuel duty rebate scheme for passenger bus transport services which is being withdrawn; if is attention has been drawn to the impact this will have on the development of public transport, particularly in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31795/07]
I refer the Deputy to the Minister for Finance's replies to composite Dail Question Nos. 106 and 107 which he answered on the 14th November 2007 and Dail Question No. 161 which he answered on the 20th November 2007.
Air Services.
Kieran O'Donnell
Question:82 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Transport if private consultants or legal experts have been engaged by his Department in relation to Aer Lingus’s withdrawal of the Shannon to Heathrow route; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31819/07]
No private consultants or legal experts have been engaged by my Department in relation to the withdrawal of the Shannon to Heathrow route by Aer Lingus. Legal advice is provided by the Attorney General and his office.
Human Rights Issues.
Simon Coveney
Question:83 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he raised the case of a person (details supplied) with the UNMIK authorities on his recent visit to Pristina; if he did, then the response he received; and if he did not, if he will do so on any occasion soon. [31732/07]
The case to which the Deputy refers was discussed in general terms in the course of my recent visit to Kosovo. My officials subsequently raised it with the UNMIK mission in Kosovo, which retains responsibility for justice and policing competences, and sought a report from them on the case.
In response, UNMIK have informed us that the individual in question has been indicted on charges relating to his alleged role in demonstrations which took place in Pristina on 10 February 2007. A panel of three international judges was appointed to hear the case: one has since recused himself due to other obligations and been replaced by a local Kosovo judge. A motion by the defendant to dismiss the original trial panel was dismissed by a local judge of the Pristina District Court. The trial began in Pristina District Court on 15 November, but was adjourned to 4 December to allow adequate preparation following the appointment of a new ex-officio Defence Counsel for the defendant.
UNMIK has also commented on accusations made in some quarters concerning alleged bias on the part of international judges, and the extent of restrictions on this individual's movements and on his freedom to receive visitors. They refute such allegations and note that a previous decision by the District Court to deny the prosecutor's motion to continue the detention on remand of this individual and to release him into house arrest on 7 July, was upheld by an international panel of the Supreme Court on 20 July. They note also that he received two visits from human rights organisation while in the custody of the Kosovo Correctional Service (KCS), and that he has been free to receive visitors since being released into house arrest on 7 July. On 14 November, the presiding international judge ruled that he will remain in house detention until 11 January 2008, but that he shall be free to leave the place of house detention between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. daily, except on days when the trial is taking place.
The Department will continue to monitor developments in the case, and I have asked my officials to keep the matter under review.
Work Permits.
Simon Coveney
Question:84 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if and when the Government will recognise an independent Kosovo; if he has plans to work towards a work permit system here for Kosovars in an effort to alleviate the dangerous level of unemployment there; if the Government will consider offering much-needed support to Kosovar agriculture and education; if he will take action at EU level in an effort to ensure that Kosovars travelling on Serbian passports will not be repatriated under the Stability and Associations Agreement between Serbia and the EU; and if he will lobby for visa facilitation for Kosovars like that accorded to Serbs under the agreement. [31733/07]
The difficult and sensitive issue of Kosovo's future status is the legacy of the Balkan wars of the 1990s. The framework for post-conflict Kosovo was set out in UN Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999, which established an interim United Nations civilian administration (UNMIK), and authorised an international security presence (KFOR). The Resolution also provided for a gradual transfer of competences from the UNMIK mission to provisional institutions of self-government.
Together with our EU partners, Ireland has consistently expressed strong support for the work of the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy, Martti Ahtisaari. In March of this year, Special Envoy Ahtisaari submitted a Comprehensive Proposal to the UN Secretary General. He recommended that Kosovo's status should be independence, supervised by the international community. A key element of the proposed settlement would be a continuing international civilian and military presence in Kosovo, with the KFOR military force remaining and a new civilian ESDP Mission.
Ireland welcomed this proposal, as providing the most practical basis for a settlement of the Kosovo issue. Regrettably, intensive efforts within the UN Security Council to agree on a new Resolution on the basis of Ahtisaari were not successful, and on 1 August, the Secretary General announced that a further four months of talks between the two sides would be facilitated by an international Troika. No agreement has yet been found, and the Troika is due to report to the UN Secretary General on the outcome of these talks on 10 December.
As regards the part of the Deputy's question which raises the issue of Irish economic and social support for Kosovars, Ireland, together with our partners in the European Union and the international community, already plays its part in fostering socio-economic development in Kosovo. Ireland has committed over €1.1 million to Kosovo in the period from 2006 to 2008. These funds have been directed towards agriculture and rural development, support for young people and vulnerable sections of the community, livelihood and enterprise development and renovation of educational facilities.
While negotiations have been completed on the text of a Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA) between the EU, the EU Member States and Serbia, no date has yet been set for signature of the agreement. Signature will be subject to the approval of all the EU Member States and will depend on Serbia's full cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY). Article 135 of the SAA provides that the Agreement shall not apply to Kosovo, this being without prejudice to the current status of Kosovo or the determination of its final status.
While we will face a more complex and uncertain political and legal environment in the event that there is no agreement on final status for Kosovo, we very much hope to be in a position to maintain our presence in KFOR, to consider contributing members of the Garda to an ESDP Mission and also to continue to support the future economic development of Kosovo.
Whale Conservation.
Joanna Tuffy
Question:85 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government has added its voice to the international condemnation of the Japanese whaling fleet that set out to the southern seas to hunt fin whales and humpback whales which are an endangered species; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31750/07]
Ireland has consistently opposed Japan's scientific whaling programme both at meetings of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) and through direct diplomatic contact. This matter was debated at the most recent annual meeting of the IWC in Alaska in May 2007. At the meeting, a resolution was passed calling on Japan, inter alia, to suspend the lethal aspects of its scientific whaling programme indefinitely, with Ireland being one of 40 countries voting in favour of this resolution. As indicated above, we have also made clear our opposition bilaterally on numerous occasions to the Japanese Government, most recently at a meeting which I had in Tokyo yesterday with the Japanese Foreign Minister, Mr. Masahiko Koumura.
Work Permits.
Mattie McGrath
Question:86 Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the status of an appeal in relation to an application for a work permit by a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the reason the application was previously refused even though the person’s references are impeccable and the person has exceptional qualifications for the job that was applied for; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31768/07]
The Employment Permits Section of my Department informs me that this application was refused on the grounds that the position on offer is currently one of the occupations ineligible for an employment permit. Having heard the appeal the Appeals Officer has upheld the original decision in this case.
Denis Naughten
Question:87 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when a decision will be made in relation to an appeal for a work permit in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; the reason for the delay in making a decision on the original application; the reason additional documentation was sought before it was declared a late application. [31835/07]
The Employment Permits Section of my Department informs me that a work permit has now issued in this case.
Industrial Development.
Kieran O'Donnell
Question:88 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of new FDIs opened in the mid-west region since 2002, broken down by year, county, company name, address and number of employees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31866/07]
Kieran O'Donnell
Question:89 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of visits and on-site inspections of potential locations in the mid-west by FDI companies since 2002, which were arranged by his Department and the State development agencies, broken down by year, county and location address; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31867/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 88 and 89 together.
For IDA purposes the mid west region consists of the counties Clare, Limerick and North Tipperary excluding the Shannon Free Zone. Since 2002 there have been 7 new IDA supported projects opened in the Mid West region and 6 new FDI projects opened in the Shannon Free Zone. Details of each of those projects and their location is set out in the attached tabular statement. This statement does not include the numbers employed in individual companies as this information is confidential to the companies.
In the same period there have been a total of 170 IDA-led visits by potential investors to the Mid West region and 76 visits to the Shannon Free Zone. Details of these visits are set out in the attached tabular statement. IDA Ireland has statutory responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment to the Mid West region, except for the Shannon Free Zone, which falls within the remit of Shannon Development. Both Shannon Development and IDA Ireland work closely within the promotion and marketing of these tailored property solutions. Limerick-Shannon has been designated as the Gateway for the region under the National Spatial Strategy. The Mid West has a strong base of overseas companies which are mainly located in Limerick, (Raheen and the National Technology Park), and the Shannon Free Zone. State supported employment accounts for 17.3% of total employment in the Region as compared to 14.8% nationally.
I am satisfied that the continued co-operation between the agencies, together with the roll out of the National Development Plan, will continue to bear fruit for the Mid West region as a whole.
|
Year |
Company |
Location |
|
2003 |
Taro Pharmaceuticals |
Roscrea, Nth Tipp |
|
2004 |
Monster Cable |
Ennis, Co. Clare |
|
2005 |
NT-MDT |
*NTP, Limerick |
|
2006 |
Northern Trust |
*NTP, Limerick |
|
2007 |
TSA |
*NTP, Limerick |
|
AR Worldwide |
*NTP, Limerick |
|
|
Rovsing |
*NTP, Limerick |
*NTP — National Technology Park Limerick.
|
Start Year |
Company Name |
Address |
|
2002 |
Travelsavers Ireland |
Universal House, Shannon Free Zone |
|
2005 |
Digital River Irl. Ltd. |
Westpark Business Campus, Shannon Free Zone |
|
2007 |
White Horse Insurance |
B89 Shannon Free Zone West, Shannon |
|
2007 |
Genesis Lease |
Westpark Business Campus, Shannon Free Zone |
|
2007 |
PC Tools Ltd. |
Shannon Business Park, Shannon Free Zone West |
|
2007 |
Tranzeo Wireless Technologies Ltd. |
Distribution Centre, Shannon Free Zone |
|
Year |
Limerick |
Nth. Tipperary |
Clare |
*Nth Kerry |
|
2002 |
15 |
10 |
4 |
1 |
|
2003 |
13 |
1 |
7 |
2 |
|
2004 |
18 |
0 |
3 |
1 |
|
2005 |
19 |
0 |
1 |
3 |
|
2006 |
25 |
0 |
7 |
2 |
|
2007 |
32 |
0 |
5 |
1 |
*Since mid 2007 North Kerry forms part of the South West Region and is now covered by the Cork IDA Office.
|
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
19 |
24 |
17 |
22 |
11 |
Question No. 90 answered with QuestionNo. 34.
Sport and Recreational Development.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:91 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his proposals for the coming year to increase capital or other grants available to groups providing for both passive and active recreational pursuits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31841/07]
Under the sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, grants are allocated to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. In this regard, 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. I have not yet decided the level of grant aid to be allocated for the next round of the programme. While no date has been set for the 2008 Programme, advertisements announcing the next round of the Programme will be placed in the national press and application forms will be available at that stage. Applicants who feel that they have a project that meets the Guidelines, Terms and Conditions of the programme may apply at that stage.
Question No. 92 answered with QuestionNo. 35.
Question No. 93 answered with QuestionNo. 34.
Question No. 94 answered with QuestionNo. 9.
Tourism Industry.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:95 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he is satisfied that the tourism industry here is sufficiently competitive to meet the challenges of the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31845/07]
In considering the competitiveness of any industry, a key measure is the extent to which it can maintain and increase market share. For the first three-quarters of 2007, reports from the CSO show that visitor numbers are up by over 4% on the corresponding period in 2006. The revenue associated with overseas visitors for the first half of the year is up by nearly 8%. This performance is broadly in line with industry targets for the year.
However, maintaining and enhancing competitiveness is a major issue for Irish tourism as it is for Ireland as a whole. In dealing with that issue, it is important to bear in mind that competitiveness is about more than price movements and costs. Tourism is no different, in that respect, to other internationally-traded sectors.
Ireland cannot, and, indeed, should not, attempt to compete on the basis of costs with mass tourism destinations. Our competitive advantage must lie in other areas.
As highlighted recently by my colleague the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, priorities for building and embedding competitive advantage into the future include:
Product development, innovation and research and development
Cost competitiveness
Marketing Ireland in a changing global environment
Responding to labour supply issues by growing the necessary skills sets through education and training
Ensuring that relevant policies are developed in a coherent, integrated way across Government Departments and State Agencies.
The question of competitiveness in tourism, like any other productive sector, must be seen in that broader light.
The two major tourism events held in Dublin this week, the Fáilte Ireland Annual Tourism conference and the Launch of Tourism Ireland's 2008 Marketing Plans have highlighted the need for the Tourism industry to become the champion of the physical environment, which is a key source of its competitive advantage, and, in terms of enhancing the competitiveness of individual operators, for the industry to move to more energy efficient and low environmental impact solutions in the design, construction and operation of tourism build.
The Tourism Agencies continue to monitor Ireland's competitiveness as a tourism destination and I will encourage them to assist the industry in responding to changing conditions through a variety of programmes in marketing, human resource development, quality enhancement, product development and productivity.
Tourism is just one part, albeit a significant part, of the overall economy. There is a competitiveness challenge for the economy as a whole and that challenge will be addressed by the Government's wider competitiveness agenda.
Questions Nos. 96 to 98, inclusive, answered with Question No. 21.
Questions Nos. 99 and 100 answered with Question No. 35.
Social Welfare Code.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:101 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a supplementary welfare payment can be made on humanitarian grounds in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31854/07]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme (SWA), which is administered on my behalf by the Community Welfare staff of the Health Service Executive, is one of a number of social assistance schemes which, with effect from 1 May 2004, is subject to a habitual residence condition. The Health Service Executive (HSE) has advised that the person concerned is not entitled to supplementary welfare allowance as he does not satisfy the habitual residency condition.
Offshore Islands.
Michael Ring
Question:102 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will commission an independent ten-year plan for the development and sustainability of Ireland’s offshore islands. [31710/07]
The Government has consistently demonstrated its commitment to supporting island development as evidenced by the significantly increased level of funding that has been provided for this purpose over the past number of years. This funding has facilitated the implementation of a planned programme of infrastructural improvements and the provision of vastly improved island access services, in close consultation with island communities.
My Department has taken a number of further initiatives recently to assist the formulation of future development policies aimed at ensuring the sustainability of islands and enhancing the quality of life for island residents. These initiatives include:
the provision of an annual administration grant to enable Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann employ a full-time manager, one of whose primary responsibilities is the development of policies in regard to the various issues affecting island communities;
the proposal by Sustainable Energy Ireland and my Department to jointly fund a pilot study of the energy needs and potential of the Aran Islands with a view to implementing sustainable energy strategies on a number of populated islands, and
the proposal to carry out a study of the cost of living on islands, including operational costs for island enterprises.
In addition, a major research study on significant issues that impact on small island communities throughout Europe has recently been completed by ESIN, the European Small Islands Network, with Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann as a lead partner. This project, which was financed under the EU's INTERREG Programme, has added to the body of knowledge available to my Department for devising and implementing strategies for the future development of the islands.
In light of the foregoing, and taking into account the ambitious proposals for the islands outlined in the National Development Plan 2007-2013 and in the Agreed Programme for Government 2007-2012, I am sure the Deputy will agree that the development needs of our populated islands are being comprehensively addressed.
Industrial Development.
Michael Creed
Question:103 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the level of grant-aid for new industries establishing in all Gaeltacht areas; the level of grant-aid that will be available in all Gaeltacht areas in 2009; the way this level of grant-aid differs from that available from other statutory agencies operating outside Gaeltacht areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31722/07]
General guidelines on the type of assistance provided by Údarás na Gaeltachta to new industries establishing in the Gaeltacht are available on the organisation's website at www.udaras.ie. The maximum level of assistance that Údarás na Gaeltachta may provide is governed by EU State Aid Regulations and does not differ from other statutory agencies operating outside the Gaeltacht.
Further information on all aspects of State Aid, including the level of assistance that will apply in 2009, is available on the website of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment at www.entemp.ie.
Comhairliúcháin Phoiblí.
Brian O'Shea
Question:104 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Brian O’Shea den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cén dul chun cinn atá déanta leis an bpróiseas comhairliúcháin phoiblí a thosnú don scéim nua faoi Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [31723/07]
Mar eolas don Teachta, cuireadh tús le céad Scéim na Roinne ar an 22ú Meán Fómhair 2004 le bheith i bhfeidhm ar feadh tréimhse de 3 bliana ón dáta sin nó go dtí go mbeidh scéim nua deimhnithe de bhua Alt 15 den Acht, cibé acu is túisce.
Mar thús ar réiteach na scéime nua, rinne an Roinn athbhreithniú níos luaithe i mbliana ar an dul chun cinn a bhí déanta ó thaobh comhlíonadh na dtiomantas sa chéad scéim. Is féidir liom a dheimhniú don Teachta go bhfuil tús curtha ag mo Roinn le réiteach scéim nua faoi Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 agus go mbeidh fógra sna meáin go luath ag lorg aighneachtaí ón bpobal ina leith.
Forbairt na Gaeilge.
Brian O'Shea
Question:105 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Brian O’Shea den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cén dul chun cinn atá déanta faoi fhorbairt an phlean straitéisigh i leith fás a chothú in úsáid na Gaeilge agus sa dátheangachas a bheidh mar ardphlean cuimsitheach chun úsáid na Gaeilge a fhorbairt i ngach ceantar baile agus tuaithe in Éirinn; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [31724/07]
Mar atá tugtha le fios agam don Teach cheana, d'fhoilsigh an Rialtas Ráiteas i leith na Gaeilge i mí na Nollag 2006. Tá sé leagtha amach sa Ráiteas sin go n-ullmhófar Straitéis 20 bliain don Ghaeilge bunaithe ar na spriocanna atá luaite sa Ráiteas. Tá i gceist go mbeadh an Ráiteas mar bhun-chloch do chéimeanna praiticiúla chun tacú leis, agus chun forbairt a dhéanamh ar, an nGaeilge, bunaithe ar chur chuige nua-aimsire. Tá mo Roinnse faoi láthair i mbun próiseas earcaíochta le comhairleoirí a fhostú d'fhonn cuidiú le hullmhú na Straitéise. Tá i gceist go rachfar i gcomhairle le pobal na tíre mar dhlúth-chuid den phróiseas agus go reáchtálfar sraith chruinnithe poiblí i gcodanna éagsúla den tír. Tá súil agam go gceapfar comhairleoirí roimh dheireadh na bliana seo agus go mbeidh an Straitéis féin ullamh roimh dheireadh na bliana 2008.
Community Development.
Deirdre Clune
Question:106 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if there are proposals to redraw the boundaries relating to Leader areas, particularly in relation to a company (details supplied); when these proposals will be decided on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31824/07]
Michael McGrath
Question:107 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if, as part of the rural development programme cohesion process, a formal decision has been made by his Department and by the Government in relation to the boundary between East Cork Area Development and West Cork Leader; if this decision has been implemented; and if his attention has been drawn to the ongoing concerns in the Owenabue Valley region arising from the transfer of significant parts of the West Cork Leader area to ECAD. [31829/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 106 and 107 together.
Deputies will be aware that the core objective of the cohesion process is the alignment of local, community and rural development structures to achieve full coverage by one integrated local development company within a given area. Following three years of extensive consultation with LEADER and Partnership groups to develop the most suitable configurations of groups, the Government decided on 27 March 2007 on the revised areas of coverage for local development companies.
As part of this consultation process, my Department facilitated local organisations in the communities to which the Deputy's questions relate, in conducting a review of needs based on local inputs, to determine how best to deliver services in the area in the future. This review concluded that, in the context of aligning coverage areas, the Carrigaline Electoral Area would be best served by East Cork Area Development Ltd. This was reflected in the March Government Decision, details of which were conveyed to LEADER and Partnership Groups on 4 April last. The new arrangements will facilitate the delivery of local development programmes in the entire Carrigaline electoral area, including the Owenabue Valley, for the first time.
I am told that West Cork LEADER and West Cork Area Partnership have commenced the implementation of the Government Decision in their area. The new West Cork Development Partnership was incorporated on Thursday October 4th, 2007. I understand also that ECAD are also engaged in aligning their governance and membership arrangements with Government requirements. The realignment of local delivery structures will bring the overall number of local development delivery bodies to 55 comprising 38 integrated LEADER/Partnership bodies in rural areas and 17 Partnerships covering urban areas.
Wildlife Conservation.
Joanna Tuffy
Question:108 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she has plans to ensure that an appropriate assessment is carried out before fishery activity takes place in areas designated for the protection of birds and their habitat under the Birds Directive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31840/07]
I am fully committed to delivering on the provisions of the Birds Directive. In this regard, I have asked that the requirements of Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive as transposed by the European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulation 1997, as amended are fully complied with in respect of fisheries and also aquaculture licensing. In this regard my Department is working closely with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government and relevant State agencies to determine the arrangements to be followed in order to ensure that the provisions of the Directive are fully respected going forward.
Fisheries Protection.
Michael Ring
Question:109 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of staff at the Marine Institute for each year from 1998 to end of October 2007 under headings (details supplied). [31708/07]
The following are the Staff Numbers at the Marine Institute for the years 1998 to 2007 under headings:
|
Permanent Staff |
Part-time Staff* |
Contract Staff |
Total |
|
|
1998 |
82 |
2 |
18 |
102 |
|
1999 |
85 |
2 |
25 |
110 |
|
2000 |
102 |
2 |
20 |
122 |
|
2001 |
125 |
2 |
19 |
144 |
|
2002 |
147 |
2 |
24 |
171 |
|
2003 |
147 |
3 |
13 |
160 |
|
2004 |
147 |
3 |
34 |
181 |
|
2005 |
147 |
3 |
57 |
204 |
|
2006 |
147 |
3 |
55 |
202 |
|
2007 |
147 |
3 |
79 |
226 |
*Part-time Staff form part of the Permanent Staff complement.
Grant Payments.
Michael Ring
Question:110 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be paid under the disadvantaged area scheme. [31709/07]
An application under the 2007 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 29 March 2007.
One of the primary provisions of the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme is that applicants must maintain a minimum stocking density on their holding of 0.15 livestock units per forage hectare for at least three consecutive months. However, where the holding of an applicant is identified as not meeting this minimum stocking density requirement, the person in question is invited to submit evidence of satisfactory stocking i.e. Flock Register, Horse Passports or details of a REPS or Commonage Framework Plan, which provides for a lower stocking level.
The person named was written to and invited to submit appropriate evidence of the number of sheep maintained on her farm. On receipt of a satisfactory response from the person named, the application will be further processed with a view to payment at an early date provided that the applicant is eligible for payment.
Michael Creed
Question:111 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will receive their 2007 cattle headage grant. [31711/07]
Michael Creed
Question:118 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will receive their 2007 single farm payment. [31718/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 111 and 118 together.
An application under the 2007 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 15 May 2007. An Advance payment of €2,286.81 issued on 16 October in respect of the Single Payment Scheme based on the area declared. An amount of €1,786.31 issued on 2 October in respect of the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme.
Following further processing of the application, issues arose regarding the area and location of the lands being claimed, the outcome of which was that the person named was deemed to have over-claimed in respect of the forage area available to him. However, as there was more eligible land declared than the number of entitlements held and in excess of the 45 hectare limit on the Disadvantaged Area Scheme, a balancing payment under the Single Payment Scheme and a supplementary payment under the Disadvantaged Area Scheme will issue shortly, after which, the person named will be fully paid under both Schemes.
Milk Quota.
Michael Creed
Question:112 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if a person (details supplied) in County Cork has applied to the milk quota tribunal for additional milk quota; when the next meeting of the tribunal is scheduled; and if this application will be considered at the next meeting. [31712/07]
Allocations of milk quota from the National Reserve are granted on the basis of recommendations from the Milk Quota Appeals Tribunal. The Tribunal examines and makes recommendations on applications for additional quota from individual producers.
The person named has applied to the Tribunal in the current 2007/2008 quota year. The first meeting of the Tribunal is scheduled for 13 December 2007; however this application will not be considered until a later meeting, to take place in the first quarter of 2008.
Michael Creed
Question:113 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the details of the membership of the consultative committee on milk quotas outlining its terms of reference; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31713/07]
I established the Dairy Consultative Committee to advise me in the evaluation of policy proposals in advance of the 2008 CAP Health Check. The milk quota element of the Commission's Health Check paper, released last week, focused on the preparation of a soft landing for the end of dairy quotas in 2015, primarily through a gradual increase in quotas but also through possible changes in other policy instruments such as adjustments to intervention or to the super levy. I want to ensure that in the negotiating position that I will adopt, I have direct access to the broadest possible views, particularly those of the key stakeholders in the industry, to assist me in that process.
The dairy consultative committee is broadly representative of the dairy sector, with representatives of the main farmer and industry organisations on it. In addition, relevant state agencies and other individuals are also participating. Mr. Jim Beecher, Assistant Secretary General with responsibility for the livestock sector in my Department, is chairman. The Committee held its first meeting in October and the membership is as follows:
|
Mr. Richard Kennedy |
IFA |
|
Ms Catherine Lascurettes |
IFA |
|
Mr. Dominic Cronin |
ICMSA |
|
Mr. Ciaran Dolan |
ICMSA |
|
Ms Catherine Buckley |
Macra |
|
Mr. Eddie O’Donnell |
Macra |
|
Mr. John Tyrell |
ICOS |
|
Mr. Padraig Gibbons |
ICOS |
|
Mr. Michael Walsh |
ICOS |
|
Mr. Michael Barry |
IDIA |
|
Mr. Vincent Gilhawley |
IDIA |
|
Ms Thia Hennessy |
Teagasc |
|
Mr. Trevor Donnellan |
Teagasc |
|
Dr. Michael Keane |
University College Cork |
|
Mr. Nicholas Simms |
Irish Dairy Board |
|
Mr. Joe O’Flynn |
Irish Dairy Board |
|
Ms Tara McCarthy |
Bord Bia |
Common Agricultural Policy.
Michael Creed
Question:114 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the details of the membership of the consultative committee advising her on the CAP health check; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31714/07]
The CAP Health Check Consultative Group will comprise Government officials, representatives of the main industry stakeholders, including farming organisations and industry representative groups, and independent experts. Invitations to participate in the Group will issue in the next few days.
Fishing Fleet.
Michael Creed
Question:115 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the amount of funds provided by her in 2008 to fund the decommissioning of the white fishing fleet; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31715/07]
The total amount provided in the Pre-Budget Estimate for BIM for capital investment for the year 2008 amounts to €19.392 million, within which the decommissioning scheme will be provided for.
Milk Quota.
Michael Creed
Question:116 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if her Department has details of quota restructuring within each co-op area since 1995; the average size of milk quotas in each co-op area in 1995 and 2007; the average amount of quota available per transaction in each co-op area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31716/07]
Michael Creed
Question:117 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if her Department has details of quota restructuring within each co-op area since 1995; the average size of milk quotas in each co-op area in 1995 and 2007; the average amount of quota available per transaction in each co-op area for each year since 1995; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31717/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 116 and 117 together.
The figures requested in respect of each Co-op area for the period 1995-2007 are being collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Question No. 118 answered with QuestionNo. 111.
Grant Payments.
Seymour Crawford
Question:119 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan will receive their single entitlement payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31734/07]
An application under the 2007 Single Payment Scheme was received from the person named on 15 May 2007. The processing of the application has now been completed and payment will shortly issue to the applicant.
Joanna Tuffy
Question:120 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the matter of recouping from Coillte Teoranta, circa €8 million of forestry premium grants awarded to it but subsequently excluded from community financing under the guarantee section of the European agricultural guidance and guarantee fund and subsequently confirmed by the European Court of Justice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31739/07]
The question of recoupment of forestry premium from Coillte is currently under consideration in my Department. Further legal advice is being sought from the Office of the Attorney General in relation to this matter.
Forestry Sector.
Joanna Tuffy
Question:121 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the status of the draft forestry and freshwater pearl mussel requirements and the moratorium on felling in the areas hosting the species; the number of hectares involved in each catchment; and the number and extent of suspended or pending forestry felling licences involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31740/07]
The moratorium on felling within areas with freshwater pearl mussel populations is still in place, pending final decision on the new Requirements governing forestry operations in such areas.
Approximately 945 hectares are affected at present in the moratorium areas, where felling licence applications are being held pending publication of the agreed Requirements.
The attached table provides details of the moratorium areas within each catchment, based on a 6 km hydrological distance, together with details of existing forest cover within each catchment.
|
Catchment Name |
Catchment Area (ha) |
Total Forest (ha) |
Coillte Forest (ha) |
Premium Forest (ha) |
Other Forest (ha) |
|
Aughavaud |
1,383 |
187 |
167 |
13 |
7 |
|
Bandon and Caha |
9,934 |
2,228 |
1,224 |
537 |
467 |
|
Bundorragha |
2,051 |
88 |
0 |
0 |
88 |
|
Caragh |
10,269 |
881 |
373 |
313 |
195 |
|
Clady |
4,555 |
317 |
271 |
20 |
26 |
|
Clodiagh |
7,318 |
1,019 |
528 |
87 |
404 |
|
Cloon |
2,979 |
370 |
42 |
291 |
37 |
|
Dawros |
3,449 |
264 |
127 |
3 |
134 |
|
Dereen |
6,766 |
780 |
480 |
189 |
111 |
|
Eske |
5,129 |
523 |
337 |
17 |
169 |
|
Glaskeelan |
1,642 |
101 |
100 |
0 |
1 |
|
Kerry Blackwater |
8,481 |
1,343 |
823 |
329 |
191 |
|
Leannan |
11,147 |
1,865 |
1,114 |
178 |
573 |
|
Licky |
3,228 |
1,573 |
1,303 |
202 |
68 |
|
Mountain, Aughnabrisky, Ballymurphy |
2,421 |
164 |
21 |
120 |
23 |
|
Munster Blackwater |
42,235 |
4,235 |
2,210 |
1,216 |
809 |
|
Newport |
4,852 |
1,065 |
714 |
248 |
103 |
|
Nore |
16,039 |
1,583 |
614 |
256 |
713 |
|
Owenagappul |
1,147 |
62 |
0 |
50 |
12 |
|
Owencarrow |
4,680 |
94 |
0 |
0 |
94 |
|
Owenea |
9,160 |
1,607 |
1,199 |
268 |
140 |
|
Owenmore |
2,984 |
267 |
17 |
88 |
162 |
|
Owenreagh |
3,680 |
324 |
198 |
4 |
122 |
|
Owenriff |
5,295 |
1,035 |
751 |
89 |
195 |
Notes: Catchments areas have been delineated based on a 6 km hydrological distance. Coillte Forest refers to forested land owned and managed by Coillte Teoranta. Premium Forest refers to forestry grant aided by the Forest Service. Other Forest includes forestry and semi-natural woodlands not owned by Coillte Teoranta or grant aided by the Forest Service.
Joanna Tuffy
Question:122 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason an analysis to establish the constraints and impacts at a high level for areas designated for the freshwater pearl mussel and to construct the principles through which new afforestation must proceed, was absent from the strategic environmental assessment undertaken by her Department for the Rural Development Plan 2006 to 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31741/07]
The Strategic Environmental Assessment of the Rural Development Plan 2007-2013 was a formal, systematic evaluation of the anticipated significant environmental effects of the Plan. The associated Environmental Report is positioned at the top of a hierarchy of assessment measures and requirements that are applied at implementation level.
The Report identifies threats to water quality as one of the principal potential adverse effects of forestry and pearl mussel habitats are highlighted in the context of introducing measures to improve water quality. At implementation level, a range of assessment measures and guidelines act to counter the potential adverse effects with specific account taken of the freshwater pearl mussel.
All applications for afforestation are subject to a detailed screening procedure to determine if an environmental impact assessment is necessary. The procedure includes specific reference to the freshwater pearl mussel. In addition, applications arising from within a designated site or within three kilometres upstream of such a site are referred to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
Finally, all forestry operations, including afforestation must be carried out in accordance with the published Code of Best Forest Practice and associated Guidelines including Forestry and Water Quality. Specific guidelines for the further protection of the freshwater pearl mussel — Forestry and Freshwater Pearl Mussel Requirements — have been drafted and will be published soon.
Milk Quota.
Jimmy Deenihan
Question:123 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if additional quota will be provided to a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31759/07]
Allocations of milk quota from the National Reserve are granted on the basis of recommendations from the Milk Quota Appeals Tribunal. The Tribunal examines and makes recommendations on applications for additional quota from individual producers.
The person named has applied to the Tribunal in the current 2007/2008 quota year. The Tribunal will examine applications between now and the end of the quota year on 31st March 2008 and all applicants will be notified of the outcome in their case.
National Reserve.
Denis Naughten
Question:124 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a decision will be made on an application by a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon to the national reserve; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31834/07]
As indicated in reply to a previous question from the Deputy, the person named submitted an application for an allocation under Category A of the 2006 National Reserve which catered for farmers who inherited, leased or otherwise received land free of charge or for a nominal amount, from a farmer who retired or died before 16 May 2005, and where the land was leased out to a third party during the reference period 2000-02.
Applicants who are applying on leased in land must commit to a lease for a minimum of 5 years. The person named was not successful under this Category as documentation submitted by him indicated that he was only leasing the lands for 3 years. The person named appealed this decision and his file was forwarded to the Independent Single Payments Appeals Committee who upheld my Department's decision. Subsequently the person named submitted additional documentation to the Committee that was forwarded to my Department for consideration. My Department have further reviewed this case but there is insufficient information to allow for the original decision to be revoked. My Department have written to the person named requesting clarification on the documentation submitted. When this information is received my Department will be in a position to consider his eligibility under this Category. In addition, the recent documentation submitted by the Deputy on behalf of the person named does not confirm his eligibility under Category A.
Youth Services.
Mary Upton
Question:125 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of registered youth clubs in the Dublin south central electoral area; the amount of funding each receives; if she will provide the answer in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31748/07]
The City of Dublin Youth Service Board (CDYSB) administers grant-in-aid funding to youth projects and youth organisations in the Dublin area on behalf of the Youth Affairs Section of my Department. This funding also supports youth clubs and groups throughout Dublin city. I understand that the CDYSB has a registration process in place for youth clubs wishing to avail of its grants and services. The Deputy may wish to contact the CDYSB directly for the information sought in relation to the number of youth clubs so registered for the area in question. My Department will forward the Deputy a list of relevant youth clubs and groups which received funding in 2006 (latest figures available) from my Department via the CDYSB as soon as this information has been compiled.
Schools Building Projects.
Shane McEntee
Question:126 Deputy Shane McEntee asked the Minister for Education and Science when construction work will begin on the new school (details supplied) in County Meath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31694/07]
All applications for large scale capital funding are assessed against published prioritisation criteria. Progress on the individual project concerned will be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
Higher Education Grants.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:127 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason there is no provision under the maintenance grants scheme for students who qualify for grants and are attending post leaving certificate courses for the payment of registration charges; her views on whether this is a particular anomaly compared to other grant schemes; and if she will take steps to change the situation. [31695/07]
My Department funds four maintenance grant schemes, three at third level, the Higher Education Grants (HEG) Scheme, the Vocational Education Committees' (VEC) Scholarships Scheme, the Third Level Maintenance Grants Scheme for Trainees and one for students attending Post Leaving Certificate Courses. Students who are entering approved courses for the first time are eligible for grants where they satisfy the relevant conditions as to age, residence, means, nationality and previous academic attainment. Third level Institutions have a Student Services Charge/registration charge which is currently €825 per annum per student. This charge is levied by the institutions to defray the costs of examinations, registration and student services. All students who are eligible for a means tested student support grant have the student charge paid on their behalf by the Local Authorities or the Vocational Education Committees, in addition to any maintenance grant and tuition fee grant to which they are entitled. As the provision of Post Leaving Certificate courses is fully funded by the State, no additional charges in the nature of the Student Service Charge at third level, should arise for the student. Under my Department's student maintenance grant schemes, I am committed to ongoing improvements in the student support schemes including increasing the rates and income limits, as resources permit.
Schools Building Projects.
Seán Barrett
Question:128 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for Education and Science when the application by a primary school (details supplied) in County Wicklow for an urgently needed extension, the necessity for which has been supported by Department inspectors and by her Department, will be approved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31696/07]
All applications for large scale capital funding are assessed against published prioritisation criteria. Progress on the individual project concerned will be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
Higher Education Grants.
Brendan Kenneally
Question:129 Deputy Brendan Kenneally asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will approve the application of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford, who is living independently and who applied to be assessed as an independent mature student in respect of a higher education grant; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31701/07]
I have made inquiries with officials in my Department and I wish to advise that an appeal has been received from the candidate referred to by the Deputy which is under review and a reply will shortly issue directly to the applicant.
Schools Refurbishment.
Finian McGrath
Question:130 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will advise and assist on an issue (details supplied). [31705/07]
The school referred to by the Deputy had applied for funding for the complete replacement of the heating system under the Summer Works Scheme 2008. Decisions on the scheme will be made later in the year. In the meantime the school authorities recently advised the Building Unit of my Department that the heating system has broken down and requested funding for emergency repair works to be carried out. Details of the estimated cost of the repairs are awaited and when received the school authorities will be advised of the outcome as a matter of urgency.
School Accommodation.
Noel O'Flynn
Question:131 Deputy Noel O’Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason payments are being delayed to those who provide school accommodation such as prefabs and so on for purchase, lease or rent; and when overdue payments will be made to a company (details attached) in County Kilkenny. [31736/07]
I wish to advise the Deputy that the Department provides grant aid to school authorities towards the cost of rented temporary school accommodation. In general, the Board of Management of a school is responsible for acquiring temporary accommodation, including procurement of prefabricated buildings. Accordingly the contract is between a school's Board of Management and a supplying contractor and any enquiries regarding overdue payments should be made directly to the relevant Boards of Management.
Special Educational Needs.
Joe Carey
Question:132 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; if she will allow them a spelling exemption for their forthcoming exams and appoint an assistant to read for them during the course of the examinations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31755/07]
The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations including organising the holding of examinations and determining procedures in places where examinations are conducted including the supervision of examinations. I can inform the Deputy that the Commission operates a scheme of Reasonable Accommodations in the Certificate Examinations. Applications for such accommodations are submitted by schools on behalf of their students. I have forwarded your query to the State Examinations Commission for direct reply to you.
School Transport.
Noel Coonan
Question:133 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the extension of a bus route for a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary; when she expects a decision to be made; if her attention has been drawn to the urgency of this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31777/07]
Bus Éireann which operates the School Transport Scheme, on behalf of my Department, are responsible for the planning and timetabling of school transport services. In general, primary school transport routes are planned so that, as far as possible, no eligible pupil will have more than 2.4 kilometres to travel to a pick up point. Bus Éireann have advised my Department that an extension to the existing service is not feasible due to operational reasons; the families referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied have been advised of this decision.
Schools Building Projects.
Noel Coonan
Question:134 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application for building works for a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary; when she expects a decision to be made; if her attention has been drawn to the urgency of this application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31778/07]
The project to which the Deputy refers is currently at an early stage of architectural planning.
A Stage 3 submission (Developed sketch scheme) is currently being examined by officials from my Department. The school's board of management will be kept informed of developments once this examination is complete. The progression of all large scale building projects from initial design stage through to construction phase, including this project, is considered on an on-going basis in the context of my Department's Multi-Annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
The Deputy can be assured that my Department will continue to ensure that building projects are delivered within the earliest possible timeframes.
Willie Penrose
Question:135 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will take steps to provide a new school (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31799/07]
All applications for large scale capital funding are assessed against published prioritisation criteria. Progress on the individual project in question is being considered in the context of the multi-Annual School Building and Modernisation Programme and will have regard to the submission recently received from the school authorities concerned.
School Enrolments.
Áine Brady
Question:136 Deputy Áine Brady asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to provide for the future demand for places in secondary schools in Maynooth, Kilcock, Johnstownbridge, Clane, Sallins and Kill, County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31800/07]
I am aware that many areas located within close proximity to Dublin, similar to those referred to by the Deputy, continue to experience population growth, a position that almost inevitably places some strain on existing educational provision. In order to proactively plan for such areas of increased growth my 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 their possible implications for school provision so as to ensure as far as possible the timely delivery of the required education infrastructure. The primary schools in Sallins and Kill are in the catchment area of Naas for post-primary purposes. In Naas at post primary level, the management authority of St. Patrick's Post Primary School, Co. Kildare V.E.C., is currently progressing plans to re-locate the school and extend capacity to 1000 pupil places. Additionally, an extension project has been completed at St. Mary's College, Naas which increases capacity at the school to 900 pupils. A similar extension was recently completed at Meánscoil Iognáid Rís, Naas and a further extension at the school is currently in architectural planning. In Maynooth a project to extend the capacity of Maynooth Post Primary School to 1,000 pupil places is currently being considered. The Department's Area Development Plan for Leixlip-Kilbeggan (the N4/M4 area) took account of the fact that the population along this route is expected to increase and recognised that such a significant population increase will result in substantial accommodation requirements at both first and second levels. It is a recommendation of the Commission that in the medium/long term, the need for a second level educational facility will arise in Enfield. The provision of this second level facility will facilitate pupils from the Johnstownbridge area.
Higher Education Grants.
Richard Bruton
Question:137 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the price index, and the date at which it was measured, used to increase the value of maintenance payments under the higher education grant in the 2007/2008 academic year; if it is intended to index these payments in 2008/2009; and the index that will be used. [31814/07]
Richard Bruton
Question:138 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the index of earnings, and the date at which it was measured, used to increase the value of income thresholds for higher education grants in 2007/2008; if it is intended to index those thresholds in 2008/2009; and the index that will be used. [31815/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 137 and 138 together.
It has been my Department's approach in recent years, to increase the value of the grant under the student maintenance grant schemes annually at least in line with inflation.
Similarly in relation to the reckonable income limits under the maintenance grant schemes, the practice in recent years has been to increase the limits at least in line with movements in the average industrial wage in the previous year.
I am pleased to be able to inform the Deputy that I have secured approval for a 10% increase in the standard rate of student grant with effect from September 2007. This very substantial increase, at twice the rate of inflation, will benefit over 56,000 students who receive a maintenance grant to attend higher and further education. This will mean an increase in the maximum rate of ordinary grant to €3,420 for 2007/2008 academic year and students who qualify will also have the student service charge paid on their behalf.
The reckonable income limits for ordinary maintenance grants have been increased by 3.5% for the 2007/2008 academic year. This increase exceeds the increase in the average industrial wage for the September to September reference period. The top limit for grant eligibility where there are less than four dependent children has been increased from €46,700 to €48,355, ensuring that a significantly higher number of students from households with moderate incomes will not have to pay the Student Service Charge of €825.
In addition, over 12,500 students in receipt of the "Special Rate" of maintenance grant will benefit from an even more substantial increase of over 14%, with the maximum rate for 2007/2008 increasing to €6,690. The prescribed income limit for the special rate of maintenance grant for the academic year 2007/2008 is €18,055.
Financial barriers have long being recognised as a major disincentive for many students who wish to access third level education. This significant increase in the ordinary rate of maintenance grant, at twice the level of inflation, will make the third level option more affordable for a broad range of students and their families. In approving an even higher increase in the special rate of maintenance grant, I am further targeting that support at those most in need, to encourage access to further and higher education for everyone.
This Government's continued commitment to supporting high rates of participation in third level education at all levels of society will ensure that Ireland continues to attract and maintain investment in high quality jobs and that the fruits of the economy can be enjoyed by all.
The new schemes can be accessed and/or downloaded from the "Students and Trainees" section of the Department's website at
www.education.ie.
School Curriculum.
P. J. Sheehan
Question:139 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Education and Science is she will make a statement in view of the concerns expressed by a person (details supplied) regarding the decision to issue Circular 0044/2007 and the National Council for Curriculum Assessment’s proposals regarding language and literacy in Irish medium schools. [31821/07]
The revised primary curriculum was launched in 1999 after extensive consultation with the partners in education.
Page 27 in the Introduction to the Curriculum states "It is a particular feature of Irish primary education that children, from the beginning of schooling, have experience of language learning in two languages." It also sets out a suggested minimum weekly time framework for tuition. This provides that where a first language is being taught, there should be four hours instruction per week, and 3 hours per week where there is a shorter day for the infant classes. Where a second language is being taught, the suggested minimum timeframe is 3.5 hours per week, and 2.5 hours per week for infant classes with a shorter day.
Some time ago my Department sought the advice of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment on issues relating to emergent literacy in Irish medium schools. The NCCA produced a series of reports on the matter, including a consultation paper, a literature review of research, and a report on the consultation process. The Council presented its final advice in February 2007. Having considered the advice in full, I have determined as a public policy issue that the position as set out in the curriculum, and in previous Parliamentary Questions, should remain unchanged i.e that the minimum recommended timeframe set out for a second language in the curriculum should be adhered to. Accordingly, Circular 0044/2007 requires that Irish medium schools should provide for a minimum provision in English of 3.30 hours per week, or 2.5 hours per week where there is a shorter day for infant classes, no later than the start of the second term in Junior infants.
I met the National Parents' Council and a range of Irish language organisations to discuss the matter, and my officials met the Chief Executive of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment. In addition, the Council was notified formally of my decision in the matter prior to the issue of the Circular.
Schools Building Projects.
Paul Connaughton
Question:140 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the overcrowding at a school (details supplied) in County Galway, the spiralling numbers on the roll, now at 251, that this is likely to rise substantially in the next few years, that there are some classes with as many as 35 pupils in each class, that there is huge pressure on the management committee not to take all students offering for places in the near future and that an agreement has been reached between her Department and the board of management for the building of ten extra rooms and other ancillary works; when this process will begin with a view to the commencement of building; when building will begin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31825/07]
This project which has been approved to start architectural planning is being considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme.
School Curriculum.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:141 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the work that has been carried out in recent years to introduce science modules into the primary school curriculum; if this is being reviewed by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment; if there is scope for visits to schools with science demonstrations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31828/07]
Social Environmental and Scientific Education in primary schools is an area of learning which encompasses Science, History and Geography, and which applies to all students from junior infants to sixth class.
The revised primary curriculum was launched in 1999 and has been implemented on a phased basis over the period to 2007. There is a published curriculum and teacher guidelines for science available at www.ncca.ie. The revised curriculum in Science was implemented with effect from September 2003, supported by a national programme of professional development for teachers provided by the Primary Curriculum Support Programme.
In science, a basic understanding of scientific principles and methods, and a foundation of knowledge and concepts in the domains of physics, chemistry and biology and botany, are provided for. A key objective is to encourage children to be active agents in their own learning, to engage in collaborative active learning, to develop high order thinking skills, to be able to observe, collate and evaluate evidence, question, summarise, analyse and interpret, and to develop problem solving skills.
There are four strands to the curriculum throughout, from infant to 6th class. These are Living Things, Energy and Forces, Materials and Environmental Awareness and Care.
Throughout the programme, scientific processes and skills are being developed — safe practices and procedures, questioning, observing, predicting, estimating and measuring, analysing, recording and communicating, exploring, planning, designing and making, evaluating, all important skills for life. There is a key emphasis on building on children's ideas as a starting point for science activities, encouraging practical activities and group and individual work, linking with the environment, and encouraging field trips.
Training for teachers is provided through the Primary Curriculum Support Programme and a network of Education Centres around the country. As well as providing training, a Cuiditheoir service provides school visits and support and assistance, and there are websites with resource directories. The INTOUCH magazine for teachers has published practical examples for schools of fun science activities developed by the PSCP science team, such as a field trip to investigate the sea shore, or a minibeast hunt in the school or locality.
The Discover Science, primary science website, also provides extensive supports and science activities for schools. The programme provides training sessions for teachers, a range of Discover Science Centres to visit, visiting speakers to schools, and an activity support pack which sets out exciting and fun activities for science which support the primary curriculum.
Phase II of the evaluation of the implementation of the Primary School Curriculum is now under way, focusing on Irish, Science, and Social Personal and Health Education. A report is expected to be published in mid 2008.
Schools Building Projects.
Michael McGrath
Question:142 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science when a design team will be appointed by her Department to a school (details supplied) in County Cork in view of the fact that the closing date for receipt of tenders was 15 October 2007; and the next step in the progression of the new school building in her Department’s school building programme. [31830/07]
The process of appointing a design team to the school building project referred to by the Deputy is at an advanced stage.
Tender submissions are currently being assessed by Technical Staff in my Department. 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 thereafter.
Progression of all projects to tender and construction will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
Site Acquisitions.
Michael McGrath
Question:143 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to a difficulty which has arisen in relation to the acquisition of a site for a school (details supplied) in County Cork; and the progress being made in the matter. [31831/07]
A suitable site has been identified for this school. The site comprises of three plots of land with three separate vendors. Agreement on price and general terms (subject to contract) has been reached in respect of each of the plots and draft Contracts are with the Chief State Solicitors Office for completion of the conveyancing process.
All three plots are essential in order to make a viable and suitable site for the school, my Department has instructed the Chief State Solicitor's Office to finalise outstanding matters and to arrange for the signing of the Contracts and closure of the sales of all three sites simultaneously. My Department has been advised by the Chief State Solicitor's Office that some issues have arisen in respect of one of the vendors which have yet to be resolved. As soon as the Chief State Solicitor's Office notifies my officials that the conveyancing/contract process has been satisfactorily completed and that all three Contracts are ready to be signed, they will be signed without delay.
When the site acquisition is complete, a building project for the school will be considered for progression in the context of my Department's School Building and Modernisation Programme.
Adult Education.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:144 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the educational facilities that can be offered to persons (details supplied) in Dublin 15 awaiting a decision in respect of a residency application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31851/07]
Refugees are entitled to the same access to education and training as Irish nationals. Asylum seekers with the right to work have access under the same conditions as Irish nationals to active labour market programmes, such as VTOS, Youthreach and to PLC courses. Non-EU nationals are not eligible for maintenance grants. Asylum seekers without an entitlement to work are entitled to free access to Adult Literacy, English language and mother culture supports.
Defence Forces Retirement Scheme.
Richard Bruton
Question:145 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the fact that under the early retirement options for Army officers, the pension being paid is reduced by the value of the contributory old age pension despite the fact that no social welfare pension is payable until age 65; if this was the intention of the original scheme established in 1995; if this implication was explained to officers at the time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31809/07]
Officers who joined the Defence Forces on or after the 6th April 1995 are, like other public servants appointed since then, subject to full PRSI and so are entitled to the full range of State Social Insurance benefits including the Old Age Contributory Pension, nowadays known as the State Pension Contributory. Consequently, their occupational pensions are subject to a process — known as "integration" — whereby the occupational pension arrangements take account of entitlement to Social Insurance benefits. Integration is a standard feature of public service pension schemes applicable to employees in full PRSI class and had applied for many years to certain public service groups who, prior to April 1995, were subject to full PRSI. Integration does not apply to retirement gratuities.
Integration begins from the time the occupational pension comes into payment and operates on the assumption that a Social Insurance benefit is, in fact, payable. However, except in cases of ill-health early retirement, Social Insurance benefits may actually not be payable until age 65. Under public service pension arrangements, a supplementary pension may be payable in certain circumstances on retirement prior to age 65 in order to make up the shortfall in total pension. The supplementary pension is not payable where a former public servant in receipt of an integrated pension is employed subsequent to retirement in any capacity which involves a Social Insurance contribution.
Certain aspects of the integration arrangements as they affect officers have been raised with my Department by the Representative Association of Commissioned Officers. Such matters are appropriate to be dealt with under the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme for members of the PDF. The Deputy will appreciate that, as discussions under the C&A scheme are confidential to the parties involved, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on the matter.
Richard Bruton
Question:146 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Defence if Army officers are eligible to pay AVCs or pay into PRSAs; the reason these options do not apply; and when he expects to introduce the SPEARS system. [31811/07]
This Question was answered today by the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, reference Question No. 48.
P. J. Sheehan
Question:147 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Defence if he will review the appeal of a person (details supplied) who has 19 years service in the Defence Forces with a view to continuing their service; the number of years they would have to serve to receive a full pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31837/07]
I have been advised by the military authorities that an appeal has been made to the relevant military authority in this matter on the 21 November 2007 and, as a consequence, it would not be appropriate for me to comment at this stage.
The minimum service required for a Private to qualify for a pension under the Defence Forces Pensions Scheme is 21 years, or 12 years if discharged "Below Required Medical Standards". Maximum pension and gratuity are payable on completion of 31 years, regardless of age.
Residency Permits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:148 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; the circumstances surrounding their deportation and return to their country; the reason their travel documentation was withdrawn while their application was pending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31852/07]
The person in question was originally granted permission to remain in the State in September 2001 based on her parentage of an Irish born child, under the particular conditions which existed at that time. The person concerned currently has permission to remain in the State until 2009. There are no records to suggest that the person concerned is the subject of a Deportation Order. The person in question applied for an Irish Travel Document and was refused in September 2005 as she was in possession of a passport issued by the authorities of her country of nationality. This passport is valid until 2015.
Brian O'Shea
Question:149 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be reached on the application of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford to be allowed residency here on humanitarian grounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31725/07]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 20 June, 2005 with her 6 year old son and applied for asylum the following day. Her application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, she was informed by letter dated 9 November, 2005, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of her. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made or consenting to the making of a deportation order. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned.
On 10 October, 2006, regulations known as the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006, S.I. No. 518 of 2006, came into force. The person concerned submitted an application for subsidiary protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations and this application will be considered in due course.
In the event that the subsidiary protection application is refused, the case file of the person concerned, including all representations submitted, will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement), as amended.
Brian O'Shea
Question:150 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be reached on the application of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford to remain here on humanitarian grounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31726/07]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 18 November, 2005 and applied for asylum. On 27 December, 2005 the person concerned gave birth to a baby boy in the State and included her child under her application for asylum in the State. The application was refused following consideration of their case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
In accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, the person concerned was informed by letter dated 20 November, 2006, that the Minister proposed to make deportation orders in respect of her and her child. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State deportation orders are made; or consenting to the making of deportation orders. In addition, she was notified that she was eligible to apply for Subsidiary Protection in accordance with regulations known as the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, S.I. No. 518 of 2006 which came into force on 10 October, 2006. The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations and this application will be considered in due course.
It should be mentioned that on 1 November 2006 the person concerned applied to the International Organisation for Migration to return to Nigeria with her child. The application was subsequently approved on 27 November 2006; however, the application was withdrawn on 2 March 2007.
If the subsidiary protection application is refused, the case file of the person concerned, including all representations submitted, will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement), as amended.
Brian O'Shea
Question:151 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be reached on the application of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford for subsidiary protection under the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006 SI No. 518 of 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31727/07]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 21 October, 2006 and applied for asylum 4 days later. The application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, he was informed by letter dated 25 January, 2007, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made; or consenting to the making of a deportation order. In addition, he was notified that he was eligible to apply for Subsidiary Protection in accordance with regulations known as the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, S.I. No. 518 of 2006 which came into force on 10 October, 2006. The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations and this application will be considered in due course.
In the event that the subsidiary protection application is refused, the case file of the person concerned, including all representations submitted, will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement), as amended.
Brian O'Shea
Question:152 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be reached under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford seeking leave to remain in the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31728/07]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 9 March, 2007 and applied for asylum. The application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner. The person concerned did not appeal this decision.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, he was informed by letter dated 15 June, 2007, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made; or consenting to the making of a deportation order. In addition, he was notified that he was eligible to apply for Subsidiary Protection in accordance with regulations known as the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, S.I. No. 518 of 2006 which came into force on 10 October, 2006.
The person concerned did not make an application either for Subsidiary Protection or for leave to remain in the State to my Department. However, his case will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement). I expect the file to be passed to me for decision in due course.
Citizenship Applications.
John O'Mahony
Question:153 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made in respect of a citizenship application for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15. [31738/07]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Section of my Department in June 2004.
Officials in that section inform me that processing of the application has commenced and the file will be forwarded to me for a decision in the near future. I understand that the person concerned was not informed, at any stage, that the application would be finalised in a five week time frame. I will inform the Deputy and the applicant when I have reached a decision on the application.
Decentralisation Programme.
Frank Feighan
Question:154 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the delay in granting an application by a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon employed at the Department of Social and Family Affairs in Galway for a transfer to the Land Registry in Roscommon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31762/07]
Under the centrally agreed protocols which apply to the decentralisation scheme, those applicants who, prior to September 2004, listed Roscommon as their first preference on the Central Applications Facility (CAF), are dealt with first. I understand from the Property Registration Authority (Land Registry) that the person concerned is not on the CAF priority list.
The Property Registration Authority has acquired temporary accommodation in Roscommon to facilitate an advance move of staff but these offices can only accommodate those people on the priority list. The application which the Deputy has referred to will be processed in the context of the roll out of the permanent accommodation and in line with the agreed protocols.
Irish Prison Service.
Ciaran Lynch
Question:155 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of dangerous weapons that have been seized in prisons in each of the past five years, broken down by year and by prison. [31788/07]
In the time available, it is not possible to furnish the information requested by the Deputy. I will furnish the information to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Prison Staff.
Ciaran Lynch
Question:156 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount the Irish Prison Service paid out in compensation claims to injured officers in each of the past seven years. [31789/07]
The table sets out the total amounts paid out by the Irish Prison Service in relation to compensation claims by injured officers during the years 2001 to 2006 and to date in 2007. The figures include payments made by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal.
|
Year |
Total Payments made by IPS |
|
€ |
|
|
2001 |
1,830,401 |
|
2002 |
2,812,733 |
|
2003 |
2,243,335 |
|
2004 |
1,061,357 |
|
2005 |
1,153,122 |
|
2006 |
1,212,227 |
|
2007 (to date) |
1,208,173 |
Sexual Offences.
Ciaran Lynch
Question:157 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the numbers of offenders whose addresses are currently known to An Garda Síochána pursuant to notification under the Sex Offenders Act 2001 who are not in prison, and are under supervision by the probation and welfare service, broken down by year, nationality and Garda division. [31790/07]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that as of 26 November, 2007 there are 1,077 persons subject to the requirements of Part 2 of the Sex Offenders Act 2001. I am advised by the Probation Service that they are currently supervising 113 offenders in accordance with the terms of the Sex Offenders Act 2001. I am informed by the Garda authorities that they do not provide information on individual cases that might lead to the identification of individuals.
Criminal Prosecutions.
Ciaran Lynch
Question:158 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of females convicted of murder and manslaughter in each of the past seven years; and the number of same serving life sentences. [31791/07]
In the time available it has not been possible to obtain the details requested by the Deputy. I will be in contact with the Deputy when the information is to hand.
Sentencing Policy.
Ciaran Lynch
Question:159 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the average sentence served for female offenders convicted of murder or manslaughter. [31792/07]
I am informed by the Director General of the Irish Prison Service that all sentence related data in the Irish Prison Service has been computerised since 2001. An interrogation of this system has revealed that female life sentence prisoners released during this period served an average of 11 years in custody. This has to be treated with caution and cannot be regarded as indicative of the likely time any particular female prisoner sentenced to life imprisonment will serve. There are currently five females in prison arising from murder convictions.
No similar data is available on females convicted of manslaughter, as since 2001 there have been no releases made under this category. Consequently it is not possible to calculate an average. Furthermore there is no mandatory life sentence for the crime of manslaughter and the sentences imposed by the courts may vary. However, the Deputy may wish to note that there are currently four females in prison arising from manslaughter convictions. Records indicate that they were committed to prison in the years 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively.
Garda Transport.
Frank Feighan
Question:160 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he is taking to ensure the provision of an extra patrol car in the Keshcarrigan area of County Leitrim. [31826/07]
The detailed allocation of Garda resources, including transport, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner to decide in accordance with his identified operational requirements and priorities. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Keshcarrigan area is policed as part of the Carrick on Shannon Garda District, which is allocated 12 vehicles. One of these vehicles is shared between the Drumshanbo and Keshcarrigan sub-districts. The Keshcarrigan sub-district is also patrolled by the Divisional Traffic Unit based at Carrick on Shannon and the District Detective Unit. The responsibility for the efficient deployment of all official transport in a Division is assigned to the Divisional Officer who may allocate vehicles between stations as required.
Residency Permits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:161 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if residency status, temporary or permanent on humanitarian or other grounds can or will be offered in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31857/07]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 13 December, 2001 and applied for asylum the next day. Having failed to attend for interview, the Refugee Applications Commissioner made a recommendation to the Minister that he should not be declared a refugee. Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, he was informed by letter dated 5 June, 2002, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. Following consideration of the person's case file under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1999, as amended, a deportation order was signed in respect of the said person on 4 July, 2003. On 3 August, 2004 the deportation order in respect of the person concerned was revoked, thus enabling the person concerned to re-enter the asylum process.
His application for asylum was refused following consideration of his case by the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, he was informed by letter dated 7 July, 2005, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made or consenting to the making of a deportation order. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned. This person's case file, including all representations submitted, will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement), as amended. I expect the file to be passed to me for decision in due course.
Citizenship Applications.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:162 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in the matter of an application for naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31858/07]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship section of my Department in April 2007. Officials in that section are currently processing applications received at the beginning of 2005 and have approximately 13,000 applications on hand to be dealt with before that of the person concerned. These are generally dealt with in chronological order as this is deemed to be the fairest to all applicants. It is likely, therefore, that further processing of the application will commence in the second half of 2009. I will inform the Deputy and the person in question when I have reached a decision on the matter.
Residency Permits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:163 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to residency status in the case of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31859/07]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the person in question made a Family Reunification application in March 2005. A request for documentation recently issued to the legal representative of the person concerned. On receipt of the requested documentation, the application will be considered further and a decision will issue in due course.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:164 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31860/07]
The person in question was originally granted permission to remain in the State in September 2000 based on his parentage of an Irish born child, under the particular conditions which existed at that time. This current permission to remain in the State is valid until March 2008.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:165 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Louth who is anxious to work in the interim; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31861/07]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 13 November, 2002 and applied for asylum. His application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, he was informed by letter dated 5 January, 2005, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made or consenting to the making of a deportation order. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned.
This person's case file, including all representations submitted, will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement), as amended. I expect the file to be passed to me for decision in due course.
Casino Gambling.
Joan Burton
Question:166 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on changes in legislation which would facilitate the introduction of casino gambling here; if he has received representations favouring the introduction of casinos here; if so, the number of same and the organisations and individuals from which they were received since 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31864/07]
As the Deputy is aware, in mid-2006 my predecessor established an inter-departmental committee chaired by Mr. Michael McGrath BL to report on the possibilities for a legislative basis for the strict regulation of casino-style operations in the State, and related matters.
The Casino Committee presented its Report in April of this year. It is a lengthy document which deals with a range of complex and inter-related public policy matters. The Report is currently being considered within my Department and when this process is concluded I intend to bring the Report before Government.
In advance of the Government's consideration of the Report of the Casino Committee I do not propose to comment on any proposals which I may bring forward in relation to policy changes in this area.
I can confirm that I have received representations both in favour of and against the introduction of casinos in Ireland. It is a fact that some individuals may not want their names appearing in the public domain and bearing in mind the requirements under the Freedom of Information legislation to protect third party information I do not propose to provide details of the individuals who made written representation to me at this time. Since July 2006, outside the framework of the submissions to the Casino Committee, some 39 separate representations from organisations in support of casinos have been received. The attached list offers a breakdown of the representations and the organisations involved.
The response to all such representations has been that having established a Committee to consider the possibilities for a legislative basis for the regulation of casino-style operations I do not propose to comment on future policy in advance of receiving and considering the report of the Casino Committee. I can confirm also, that I have had no meetings with the organisations referred to below.
With regard to the Deputy's request for information going back to 1997 the compilation of this information would require a disproportionate expenditure of resources which I do not believe would be warranted in this instance.
|
No. |
||
|
1 |
Macau Sporting Club |
6 |
|
2 |
Fitzwilliam Card Club |
3 |
|
3 |
Gaming and Leisure Association of Ireland |
23 |
|
4 |
Irish Amusement Trade Association |
1 |
|
5 |
Atlantic Casino Consultants |
4 |
|
6 |
The 21 Sporting Club |
1 |
|
7 |
Shamrock Card Club |
1 |
|
Total Number of Representatives |
39 |
Drug Seizures.
Ciaran Lynch
Question:167 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the estimated value of drugs seized and destroyed by the State since the year 2000. [31994/07]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the information being sought is being compiled by An Garda Síochána and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it is available.
Ciaran Lynch
Question:168 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of drug seizures, where the estimated value of the drugs seized has exceeded €100,000, since the year 2000; and the estimated value of drugs recovered in such seizures. [31995/07]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that it has not been possible in the time available to obtain the information requested by the Deputy. I will be in touch with the Deputy in relation to this matter when it becomes available.
Local Authority Housing.
Jack Wall
Question:169 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the way rent is determined under the rental accommodation scheme; if a person in receipt of a disability allowance payment, who for therapeutic reasons takes up a training course with the choices programme is assessed on all of their income including the €30 they receive for the course; if such a payment is an actual payment or expense; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31771/07]
Jack Wall
Question:179 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the assessment method used by the local authority in relation to the rental accommodation scheme; if there is a means within the guidelines to facilitate a person who is in receipt of disability allowance and for therapeutic reasons takes a course choices programme; if the €30 that the applicant receives in relation to the course is taken into account in the assessing of the rent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31769/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 169 and 179 together.
Under the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS), households pay a contribution towards their rent to the local authority. This contribution is determined by the housing authority by reference to each authority's Differential Rent Scheme. The level of contribution will vary from authority to authority and over time to reflect changes in the income and family circumstances of the RAS household.
In determining the level of contribution local authorities have regard to the household income and may exclude certain sources of income in determining the contribution. Local authorities may also, on a discretionary basis, vary the contribution in line with stated policy in their rental schemes.
Fire Services.
Emmet Stagg
Question:170 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has given further consideration to the establishment of full time fire services in areas with a population in excess of 10,000 people. [31698/07]
The provision of a fire service in its functional area, including the establishment and maintenance of a fire brigade, the assessment of fire cover needs, the provision of a premises and the making of such other provisions as it considers necessary or desirable, is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under section 10 of the Fire Services Act 1981.
The Department's role is one of supporting and assisting local authorities in delivering fire services through the setting of general policy and the provision of capital funding. Under the Fire Services Change Programme a Risk Based Approach to Fire Safety Management is being developed. When this system is available it will assist fire authorities in carrying out a risk analysis in their functional areas to inform the allocation of resources.
Local Authority Housing.
Emmet Stagg
Question:171 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of vacant council houses throughout the State on dates (details supplied); the average waiting time for each local authority in reallocating same to tenants; if he has satisfied himself that houses are being reallocated in a timely fashion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31699/07]
The detailed information sought in the Question in relation to the numbers of vacant dwellings on the dates concerned is not held in my Department.
The third report from the Local Government Management Services Board on Local Authority Service Indicators, copies of which are in the Oireachtas Library, details the performance of local authorities in 2006 in relation to a wide range of activities. Among the data provided in that report are percentages for each local authority of dwellings that are empty; empty dwellings that are available for letting; and average time to re-let dwellings.
It is the responsibility of the local authorities concerned to ensure that their houses are re-let to households on their waiting lists as quickly as possible after they are vacated. I consider that the publication by the Local Government Management Services Board of comparative data on performance will encourage all local authorities to deliver services to the highest possible standard.
Natural Heritage Areas.
Pádraic McCormack
Question:172 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the remaining appeals under the national heritage area designation will be dealt with; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31703/07]
The great majority of appeals against Natural Heritage Areas, which are designated under national legislation, have already been finalised. However, in order to meet the requirements of judgements by the European Court of Justice, my Department has recently begun giving priority to the completion of any outstanding appeals on sites designated under the EU Habitats and Birds Directives (Natura 2000 sites).
The small numbers of remaining natural heritage area appeals will be processed as soon as possible, once the remaining appeals on the Natura 2000 sites have been finalised.
Register of Electors.
Michael Creed
Question:173 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the voting entitlements of US citizens legally resident here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31721/07]
In order to be able to vote at elections and referenda in this jurisdiction, a person's name must be entered in the register of electors for a constituency in the State in which the person ordinarily resides.
Subject to this primary requirement, the person's citizenship then determines the polls at which he or she is entitled to vote. Irish citizens who are registered to vote may vote at all polls. British citizens may vote at Dáil, European and local elections; other EU citizens may vote at European and local elections; and non-EU citizens may vote at local elections only.
Fire Services.
Joe Behan
Question:174 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the outcome of his meeting with the Wicklow county manager, Wicklow chief fire officer and the members of the Bray Fire Brigade on 15 November 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31730/07]
Minister Gormley and I met with some of the crew and management of Bray Fire Service in the immediate aftermath of the Bray fire tragedy. It was suggested that a further meeting take place and the meeting was arranged for 15 November 2007 in Bray fire station.
The purpose of the meeting was to express the Government's solidarity with the members and management of Bray fire service, to acknowledge their sense of loss and thank them for their continued service to the people of Bray and its environs, and to hear their views in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The Minister and I assured them that lessons learned from the tragedy would be utilised in the Department's role of supporting the fire services and in the context of the review of the fire services change programme.
The provision of a fire service in its functional area, including the establishment and maintenance of a fire brigade, the assessment of fire cover needs, the provision of a premises and the making of such other provisions as it considers necessary or desirable, is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under section 10 of the Fire Services Act 1981.
The Department's role is one of supporting and assisting local authorities in delivering fire services through the setting of general policy and the provision of capital funding.
Water Quality.
Joanna Tuffy
Question:175 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has plans to introduce registration and monitoring of the indirect discharges into ground-water of domestic effluents from the septic tanks of more than 300,000 isolated dwellings, in view of the comments by the chairman of An Bord Pleanála regarding the fact that there must be accounting for some of the decline in ground-water standards reported by the Environmental Protection Agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31742/07]
Joanna Tuffy
Question:177 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has plans to introduce the registration and inspection of the indirect discharges into ground-water of effluents from the septic tanks and waste water treatment units of various rural settlements and agglomerations which are in breach of the conditions, laid down in the Ground-water Directive and referred to in the recent court judgment against Ireland but for which insufficient evidence was provided by the Commission to the court; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31744/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 175 and 177 together.
Clear and comprehensive best practice guidance in regard to Groundwater Protection and the Planning System was issued to all planning authorities by my Department in July 2003. The Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines for Planning Authorities, which issued in April 2005, emphasised the need for adherence to best practice in order to protect water quality. These guidelines were issued under section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 which requires planning authorities to have regard to such guidelines in the performance of their functions.
Septic tanks installed on or after 1 June 1992 must comply with Part H of the Building Regulations which requires septic tanks to be so sited and constructed that they do not pollute, so as to endanger public health, any water (including groundwater) which is used as a source of supply for human consumption. The related Technical Guidance Document H provides guidance on how to comply with Part H. Guidance on septic tank drainage systems for single houses is contained in Irish Standard Recommendations S.R. 6: 1991 for Domestic Effluent Treatment and Disposal from Single Dwellings issued by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI). For septic tanks serving groups of houses, British Standard B.S. 6297: 1983, a Code of Practice for the Design and Installation of Small Sewage Treatment Works, issued by the British Standards Institute applies.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently developing a comprehensive Code of Practice on Waste Water Treatment Systems. The EPA intends to publish the Code of Practice under section 76 of the EPA Act, and this code will then be cited in the Annex to Technical Guidance Document H of the Building Regulations which is to be revised next year.
The Water Services Act 2007 contains a number of significant provisions in relation to the operation of septic tanks. It places a duty of care on the occupier or owner of a premises in relation to the maintenance of septic tanks and it also requires the occupier or owner to notify the water services authority where any leak, accident or other incident occurs relating to discharges of sewage from a septic tank, where it is likely to cause a risk to human health or safety or the environment. These sections will be brought into operation shortly.
In addition, it is open to local authorities to make and adopt bye-laws to require periodic inspections of septic tanks and other on-site proprietary treatment systems under the general powers available to them under the Local Government Act 2001.
Joanna Tuffy
Question:176 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the sustainable rural housing guidelines which state in Section 4.5 Protecting Water Quality, that critical elements of Circular Letter SP 5-03 issued to planning authorities gave guidance on development control and enforcement standards and practices to ensure protection of ground-water quality; the annual programmes of testing and monitoring of individual waste water treatment and disposal systems that have taken place of developments given consent since the guidelines were issued 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31743/07]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 638 of 27 November 2007.
As set out in my Department's circular letter (SP 5-03) of 31 July 2003 concerning Ground-water Protection and the Planning System, it is the responsibility of planning authorities to monitor the degree to which those carrying out approved development meet their obligations to comply with the terms of planning permissions granted, and to enforce such terms where necessary.
Planning authorities should ensure that the process of enforcing the terms of planning permissions for all developments involving on-site wastewater treatment and disposal, including septic tanks, is co-ordinated through a local authority-held database which would provide information such as the location and types of such systems relative to vulnerable areas as well as details such as maintenance contracts. Such a database can be used by the planning authority to structure an annual programme of testing and monitoring the performance of individual wastewater treatment and disposal systems, and is also of value in recording outputs from site assessments and providing inputs into new site assessments in terms of general drainage trends in an area. It is a matter for planning authorities to ensure that adequate arrangements are put in place in these regards and to manage such monitoring systems.
Question No. 177 answered with QuestionNo. 175.
Planning Issues.
Joanna Tuffy
Question:178 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of one-off houses outside areas zoned for development in county development plans 2000 to 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31745/07]
While my Department compiles a broad range of housing statistics for publication in the quarterly Housing Bulletin, specific data are not available on the number of one-off houses built outside of areas zoned for development.
Question No. 179 answered with QuestionNo. 169.
Local Authority Housing.
Richard Bruton
Question:180 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the rate of interest charged on the mortgage element under shared ownership; the rate charged for mortgage protection; the combined charge costs per month per €1,000 of mortgage; and if changes are due. [31812/07]
Richard Bruton
Question:181 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the rental charge on the rented element under shared ownership; the costs of same per month per €1,000 of rented property in the first year and each subsequent year; and if changes in this are planned. [31813/07]
Richard Bruton
Question:182 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason the rent chargeable on the rented portion of a home under shared ownership rises by 4.5% per year; and if such a charge continues to be justifiable at a time when house prices are falling. [31816/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 180 to 182, inclusive, together.
The variable interest rate charged by a local authority on the mortgage element of a shared ownership transaction is determined by the Housing Finance Agency by reference to prevailing rates in the financial market. The current variable rate is 5%. In addition, a mortgage protection charge of 0.598% is applied to all local authority loans. On this basis, the combined cost per €1,000 of mortgage per month, over a 25 year term, would be €6.20. These costs exclude any tax relief due.
Rent is calculated at 4.3% of the value of the share in the ownership held by the local authority. This amount is increased annually by 4.5%. The rent per €1,000 is, therefore, €3.58, increasing annually by 4.5%. This amount excludes any rent subsidy due.
The rent charged is to cover the funding costs to the Housing Finance Agency which are based on borrowings at the prevailing interest rates. Any difference between the rent and prevailing interest rate is reflected in the capital outstanding on the property i.e. if the rent charged in any period is greater than the prevailing mortgage interest due on the local authority's share, the purchase price of the outstanding equity will be reduced accordingly.
The Shared Ownership Scheme is being kept under review in the context of my Department''s consideration of a report on the broader range of affordable housing delivery mechanisms, which was completed recently by the Affordable Homes Partnership.
Election Management System.
David Stanton
Question:183 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the Government has accepted the Constituency Commission Report on Dáil and European Constituencies 2007; if he will bring forward legislation to make the changes as outlined in the report; when such legislation will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31838/07]
The Constituency Commission presented its report on Dáil and European Parliament constituencies to the Ceann Comhairle on 23 October 2007.
My Department is currently preparing, for consideration by Government, proposals for an Electoral (Amendment) Bill which will, inter alia, provide for revisions to Dáil and European Parliament constituencies in accordance with the Commission's report. I expect to be in a position to publish the Bill early in 2008.
Drift Net Fishing.
Peter Power
Question:184 Deputy Peter Power asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his Department will offer a financial compensation scheme for drift net fishermen similar to the scheme presently in place (details supplied), if they surrender their licence after 21 December 2007; if the ban on drift net fishing will be reviewed by his Department in the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31773/07]
Applicants have until the 31 December 2007 to accept any offer under the Salmon Hardship Scheme. This deadline, I believe, provides ample time for those concerned to give the scheme due consideration.
The Standing Scientific Committee of the National Salmon Commission has advised that stocks of salmon in a number of rivers in the Shannon Estuary are below conservation limit.
The Regional Fisheries Board and the Marine Institute will monitor the stocks in developing a management plan for each of the rivers with a view to identifying the extent of the recovery, if any, arising from the cessation of the harvesting of salmon and any stock rehabilitation works undertaken.
In the future event that stocks recover in each of the rivers of the Shannon Estuary and it is established from the results of the Genetic Stock Identification project that significant numbers of fish destined for other rivers are not intercepted within the estuary by commercial nets, it should be possible to exploit the identified surplus by all methods but within the constraints permitted by the Habitats Directive.
Telecommunications Services.
Noel Coonan
Question:185 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary can not get broadband at their home. [31774/07]
Noel Coonan
Question:186 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the areas in County Tipperary which are to be included in the roll out of broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31775/07]
Noel Coonan
Question:187 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary can not get broadband at their home. [31776/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 185 to 187, inclusive, together.
The provision of broadband services is primarily a matter for the private sector. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg).
The role of the Government is to formulate regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.
The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard my Department has undertaken initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These include providing grant-aid under the recently concluded Group Broadband Scheme and investment in Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs).
There are still some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband services. Accordingly, the procurement process for a National Broadband Scheme (NBS) is under way. The NBS will provide broadband services to areas that are currently unserved and will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband in unserved areas are met. A map of areas unserved by broadband has been prepared to help inform the tendering process and further detailsare available at http://www.dcmnr.gov.ie/ NR/rdonlyres/624D8237-D8D3-4693-9BA3-448DD51D4269/0/CompositeMapSept3.pdf. The scheme is technology neutral, which means that the bidding service providers may use whichever technology they feel best suits the scheme’s objectives.
The first phase of the procurement process, Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) is now complete and four candidates have pre-qualified. The four candidates are, in alphabetical order, BT Communications Ireland Ltd Consortium, eircom Ltd, Hutchinson 3G Ireland Ltd and IFA/Motorola Consortium.
The next phase of the procurement process involves inviting candidates to participate in a competitive dialogue process. My Department is anticipating that the award of the NBS contract will be during Quarter 2 of 2008, with rollout of the services due to begin as soon as possible thereafter. This timeline is subject to negotiations with candidates during the competitive dialogue phase of the procurement process.