Vol. 656 No. 1
10 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the percentage increase in electricity use in winter 2007; his views on ESRI warnings in winter 2007 that electricity capacity was at a stage where forced shutdowns of aging plants during winter peak demand could result in shortages; if he is confident that there will be sufficient capacity in winter 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21386/08]
I am advised by Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) that the point of peak demand for 2007 occurred on 18 December last, with the generation of 5,077 megawatts of electricity. The demand was met satisfactorily. This compares with a 2006 winter peak demand of 5,035 megawatts and represents a rise of less than 1%.
As with any power generation system, it is not possible to give definitive guarantees that generation adequacy will always be maintained. By their nature, high level forced outages on the system cannot be predicted. The work of the ESRI in the area of security of electricity supply underlines the necessity to ensure adequate capacity margins on the generation system.
My Department liaises closely with the CER, which has key functions with regard to security of electricity supply, and with EirGrid as the independent Transmission System Operator. Reporting to the CER, EirGrid has responsibility for managing generation adequacy and monitoring generation capacity. EirGrid publishes a Winter Outlook Report annually around the end of August. This year's report will again provide a rigorous analysis of the capacity of Ireland's electricity generation to meet expected demand in the coming winter.
Based on the ongoing EirGrid analysis, including the most recent Generation Adequacy Report, the overall assessment is that capacity will be sufficient in the short term.
However, security and reliability of electricity supply over the coming years must be of paramount concern. It is critical for the economy, for business and for all consumers. Improved availability of existing generating capacity and delivery of new generating and interconnection capacity are therefore key priorities over the period to 2014. The provision of flexible plant in light of the continued strong growth in wind energy on the system is also critical in this context. My Department will work closely on these priorities with all stakeholders over the coming years.
11 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the time frame for expected reports and workings of his Department’s international advisory committee on high speed broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21487/08]
I convened an International Advisory Forum for a one day consultation meeting on Next Generation Broadband on 27 February last. This meeting was an important advisory input into the drafting of the consultation paper on Next Generation Broadband which I intend to launch very shortly.
12 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has had communication or plans to communicate with other Departments or agencies on the issue of cyber bullying; if he has plans to introduce policy in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21466/08]
As Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources I have overall responsibility for electronic communications policy, but I have no responsibility in relation to the actions of persons conducting bullying or intimidation activities over electronic communications networks.
Bullying in any form can be very real issue and can be distressing for those on the receiving end, particularly children. However, parents must be aware of their children's behaviour and their supervisory role is key to safeguarding their children from the perils of abuse of communications technology.
Malevolent Internet activity falls within the remit of my colleague the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform and I would draw the Deputy's attention to the Office of Internet Safety recently established by that Minister.
I would also refer the Deputy to www.webwise.ie, a website developed by the National Centre for Technology in Education (NCTE), an agency under the Department of Education and Science. This website provides information and resources to help ensure that children's on-line activity is positive and safe. My colleague, the Minister for Education and Science, also launched a new education programme earlier this year on Internet safety, which focuses on promoting safer and more effective use of social networking websites by children in Ireland. The programme is aimed at parents and teachers as well as children.
My Department, in conjunction with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the authorities in Northern Ireland and private sector companies, recently launched a public awareness campaign called "Make IT Secure" to raise awareness of issues surrounding Internet access and security.
Finally, as the Deputy may be aware, legislation is already in place to prosecute the issue of nuisance and criminal phone calls, and the sending of pornographic images by mobile phones.
It is an offence under Section 13 of the Post Office (Amendment) Act, 1951, as amended, to send by phone any message or other matter, which is grossly offensive, or of an indecent, obscene or menacing character.
Also it is an offence under Section 10 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act, 1997 to harass a person by use of a telephone.
The investigation of these offences is a matter for the Garda Síochána.
13 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when the review of the cost effectiveness and performance of the MANs will be completed and published; when he will decide on the progression of a further phase of the MANs; the amount a further phase of the MANs will cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21372/08]
A Value for Money and Policy Review of Phase I of the Metropolitan Area Networks Programme is currently being finalised in my Department. Additionally, a consultation policy paper on Next Generation Broadband is also being finalised. Both reports, which I intend to publish in the coming weeks, will help to inform future decisions in this area including any future phases of the MANs.
14 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans for energy security with particular regard to gas storage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21449/08]
Currently, over 90% of Ireland's energy needs are provided for by imports. In order to ensure the security and sustainability of our energy supply, we must reduce our reliance on imports and significantly enhance the diversity of our energy mix. While Ireland does not currently maintain a strategic gas reserve, commercial reserves of natural gas are held by licensed natural gas shippers and suppliers, including Bord Gáis Éireann (BGÉ). At current levels, BGÉ's Kinsale reserves can supply 50% of non-daily metered customer requirements, that is, small business and domestic, for up to 50 days.
The Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) has the statutory function of licensing natural gas storage facilities. In carrying out its functions, the Commission must have regard to the need to ensure that there is sufficient capacity in the natural gas system to enable reasonable expectations of demand to be met and to secure the continuity, security and quality of supplies of natural gas.
The CER has granted a gas storage licence to Marathon Oil Ireland Ltd to make the full capability of its depleted Kinsale facility, which has a capacity of 7 billion cubic feet (bcf), available to third parties. Another development is the proposal by Shannon LNG to construct a liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminal near Tarbert on the Shannon Estuary. The project could potentially provide up to 40% of Ireland's gas requirements. The connection of the Corrib gas field would also reduce our dependence on imports for the period it is in operation.
In 2007, a study was jointly commissioned by my Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for Northern Ireland, to assess the medium to long-term position with regard to security of natural gas supply on an all-island basis. The study also considered the scope for a common approach on natural gas storage and LNG. A summary of the study has been published on the websites of both Departments. The results of the study, which has recently been completed, are currently being assessed by both Departments.
15 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps he will take to ease the effects of the close down of analogue television in Wales on Counties Wexford, Waterford, Wicklow and Dublin; the timescale of this impact; his views on the consequences of this signal shutdown; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21395/08]
The UK has a schedule to switch off analogue TV in different regions from 2008 to 2012 in favour of Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT). Analogue TV services in Wales, for instance, are expected to switch off in 2009 and this will impact on viewers in Wexford, Waterford, Wicklow and Dublin who receive UK TV channels via overspill from the UK.
Viewers on cable and satellite will not be affected by these changes and will continue to receive the UK terrestrial channels.
In Ireland, the development of DTT is well under way. The Broadcasting (Amendment) Act 2007, provides for RTÉ to develop a public broadcasting DTT service with space to carry RTÉ, TG4 and TV3. In addition, the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland is currently running a competition to provide commercial DTT services. In these circumstances it is expected that Irish digital terrestrial services, providing a significant range of television services, will be available in the south east of the country in 2009, including to those persons who will be impacted by the switch off of analogue services in the UK.
Digital terrestrial services will offer more to viewers in terms of digital quality pictures and sound, more services such as programme guide information and more channel content.
16 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress made in the pilot scheme for smart electronic metres; when the pilot scheme will commence; the number of houses it will cover; when it will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21384/08]
23 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress he has made in rolling out electricity smart meters; when the pilot project will be finished; the provisional findings from this project which have been established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21427/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 16 and 23 together.
The rollout of a national smart meter programme is progressing in line with the commitment in the Government's Energy Policy Framework and in the Programme for Government. The Smart Meter programme is a central component of our strategy to significantly enhance management of demand for electricity and to achieve greater energy efficiency through the use of cutting-edge technology.
The delivery of smart metering requires a collective response. This is a technically complex and ambitious initiative. The Steering Group overseeing programme implementation is chaired by the Commission for Energy Regulation and includes representation from Sustainable Energy Ireland, ESB Networks, ESB Customer Supply and independent suppliers as well as my Department.
There are also four working groups, reporting directly to the Steering Group, which are mandated to progress the complex technical aspects of smart metering including Tariffs, Billing/Data Services, Networks and Customer Behaviour.
I can confirm that the installation of meters for the pilot phase will get underway by this summer. ESB Networks is currently engaged in the final stages of a tender process to select smart meters for testing in this pilot phase.
In parallel, work is well advanced on the design of the customer behaviour and tariff aspects of the pilot phase, led by Sustainable Energy Ireland and ESB Customer Supply respectively.
In addition, good progress has also been made on the preparation of an interim data solution to be used during the pilot to deal with the much expanded quantity of data which will be generated by the interval reading functionality of smart metering.
The combined results of these work streams will define the number of installations necessary to achieve the objectives of the pilot phase. It is expected that the pilot phase will last for a year. The objective remains to complete the national smart meter programme in five years, thereby providing a cost effective electricity metering system which will deliver tangible benefits to all consumers of electricity.
17 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the plans that have been agreed to transpose the third directive on postal liberalisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21501/08]
The Third Postal Directive, EC/2008/6, was published in the Official Journal of the European Union earlier this year and was reviewed by officials in my Department with a view to establishing the key issues arising from it for Ireland. Whilst the Directive sets the date for the final liberalisation of the postal sector and stipulates that there should be no changes to the Universal Service Obligation, certain other key decisions with regard to the liberalisation of the sector are being left to individual Member States.
In this regard, my Department launched an online public consultation process on 29th April, inviting the public to submit its views on the key issues and the key decisions to be made arising from the Directive.
Of importance for Ireland is how to facilitate competition and the provision of high-quality, competitively-priced postal services whilst ensuring the protection of universal service in a liberalised market so that all postal consumers will have access to a basic, high quality suite of services.
The consultation invites submissions from interested parties on key issues such as financing the Universal Service Obligation in a liberalised market, the regulatory regime to be put in place with respect to price and quality of service, issues relating to access to An Post's network and matters relating to the promotion of competition. The deadline for receipt of submissions is 9th July.
The results of this process will assist my thinking with respect to the transposition of the Directive into Irish law, including any possible consolidation of existing postal legislation, which is currently under consideration. The deadline for transposition of the Directive is 31 December 2010.
18 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to reports from the UK that deregulation of the postal market had delivered no benefits to most customers and put the finances of the State owned postal company under severe strain; if there are lessons to be learned from the UK experience; if so, the steps he will take to address them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21391/08]
As regards the recent report relating to the effects of deregulation on the UK postal market, I do not propose to comment specifically on the development of postal sectors in other jurisdictions.
With respect to the liberalisation of the Irish postal sector, set to be completed by 1st January 2011, my Department is currently conducting a public consultation process on the key issues arising from the recently published EU Directive which sets out the terms for the full liberalisation of the postal sector, EU-wide. The consultation process is due to close on the 9th of July.
Of key importance for Ireland is to facilitate competition and the provision of high-quality, competitively-priced postal services whilst ensuring the protection of universal service in a liberalised market so that all postal consumers will have access to a basic, high quality suite of services.
Along with the views submitted by stakeholders and interested parties in response to the consultation questions, I also intend to look at the experiences in other countries that have already fully liberalised their postal markets. In this context I will take account, as appropriate, of the findings of the reports referred to in the Deputy's question. This process will assist my thinking with respect to the key issues to be considered in the transposition of the Directive into Irish law, and help ensure that it is done in a manner most appropriate to the Irish context.
19 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his position on the funding allocated to independent radio production in the independent programme account as set out in section 116 of the Broadcasting Bill 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21359/08]
The Broadcasting Bill 2008 proposes a number of legislative initiatives to support the development of the independent production sector, including TV, film and radio in Ireland.
Section 25 sets the new single content regulator, the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI), the objective of stimulating the provision of high quality, diverse and innovative programming by independent producers. Section 112 requires RTÉ and TG4 to prepare a Code of Fair Trading Practice outlining how they will go about commissioning programmes from the independent production sector. These codes will be subject to review by the BAI and by the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, and must address RTÉ and TG4's approach to multi-annual commissioning, the acquisition of rights and the timing of contractual negotiations.
Section 116 of the Bill increases the minimum level of expenditure required of RTÉ in respect of independent production to €40 million annually, and for the first time sets a minimum level for independent radio production of €0.5 million per annum for an initial period of five years.
These initiatives along with the continuance of the Sound and Vision Scheme under Part 10 of the Bill will serve to facilitate the development of the independent production sector in Ireland, adding to the diversity of voices and creative ideas that populate the Irish airwaves. I further understand that under the Sound and Vision Scheme some €4.3m has been awarded to radio projects to date.
As I stated at second stage in the Seanad, I am anxious to garner the views of Senators and Deputies as to the appropriate statutory interventions in respect of developing the independent production sector in Ireland.
I recognise that there is a balance to be struck reconciling the legitimate interests of public service broadcasters and those of the independent production sector. The burden on the licence fee payer and on the generality of taxpayers must also be taken into account. Overall, I consider that the existing and proposed new provisions demonstrate a strong commitment by Government to the independent production sector.
21 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will introduce a wood log gasifier grant scheme which would significantly alter the energy sector in rural Ireland. [19631/08]
The Greener Homes Scheme currently provides support to homeowners to invest in domestic renewable energy heating technologies including solar panels, biomass boilers and stoves, and heat pumps.
The overall aim of the Scheme is to consolidate the market for domestic renewable energy heating technologies, underpinning it with quality standards and training and providing for a long-term future for supply and services that is not grant dependent. The aim is to ensure that the market for these products, services and fuels continues to develop strongly in a robust manner and that consumers continue to be guided towards discerning choices.
The Scheme, which is administered by Sustainable Energy Ireland, is continuing to evolve in light of maturing technologies, and supply side and market developments. In that context the scope for adding further technologies including wood log gasifiers is being kept under regular review.
22 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will report on his policy to transfer assets from the ESB to EirGrid; the findings of the independent analysis carried out on this issue; when he expects to publish the findings from that independent analysis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21357/08]
28 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress he has made in the transfer of transmission assets to Eirgrid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21496/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 22 and 28 together.
I would refer the Deputy to my Statement of 13th March on the future of Ireland's electricity sector. In that Statement I affirmed the Government's decision in the Energy Policy White Paper and the Programme for Government to transfer the ownership of the electricity transmission assets from ESB to EirGrid. It is also fundamental Government policy that we retain the electricity and gas networks as strategic national assets in state ownership which will never be privatised.
The unbundling of the transmission assets involves the resolution of complex technical, financial and operational issues as well as legislation.
In the context, not least, of wide-ranging challenging priorities for ESB and EirGrid, I have proposed that we commission an independent analysis of the transmission transfer, including costs, benefits and regulatory impact assessment, set in the context also of EU developments and the all island single electricity market.
Statements by my predecessor and myself have consistently underlined the need for transparent and inclusive engagement with all relevant stakeholders in the process of implementing Government policy in relation to the electricity transmission assets.
Input to the process of independent analysis will accordingly be invited from the direct key stakeholders. These are the management and unions of ESB and EirGrid, the ESB Employee Share Ownership Trust, as well as the Commission for Energy Regulation and the Department of Finance.
As I also announced in my statement, I intend to appoint a senior independent figure to chair this process including the commissioning of independent consultants to carry out the technical and economic analysis. I am considering potential candidates for this role at present.
All the direct stakeholders have pivotal roles to play in the process of engagement and analysis and in achieving outcomes that are good for EirGrid and ESB, which are satisfactory for all parties concerned, and which are in the best interests of the economy and consumers. I look forward to getting this collective process under way following my appointment of the senior independent chair.
Government policy is clear in relation to ensuring the strategic future of both EirGrid and ESB as strong viable Semi State bodies with vital roles to play in delivering our national targets for emissions reduction, renewable energy and energy efficiency as well as security of supply and energy competitiveness.
I recently welcomed ESB's announcement of its new Strategic Framework to 2020, which will see an unprecedented capital investment programme by the company at home and abroad in support of our goals for renewable energy, energy efficiency, emissions reduction and energy security.
I look forward equally to EirGrid's forthcoming Transmission Development Strategy 2025. This will set out an ambitious national plan for critical investment in the transmission system over the next two decades in support of economic, social and regional development and the integration of renewable energy generation.
24 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the contact he has had with the Department of Transport to promote green energy technologies in transport as stated in the programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21491/08]
I am working with my colleague, the Minister for Transport, to progress the enhanced deployment of green energy technologies and the sustainable use of energy in transport.
My Department is cooperating in the development of the Sustainable Transport and Travel Action Plan (STTAP), and is meeting with officials of the Department of Transport on a regular basis to review initiatives in the areas of biofuels, electric and hybrid vehicles and other technological advances in the sustainable transport sphere.
I will also be closely consulting with the Minister for Transport in relation to finalising the Biofuels Obligation and the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan.
25 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress made in regard to the commitment given in the programme for Government to ensure that as many Government services as possible operate through the post office network; the types of services that will be made available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21390/08]
As set out in the programme for Government, the Government remains fully committed to the objective of securing a viable and sustainable nationwide post office network through a range of measures including maximising the volume of both public and private sector business handled through the network. Currently 71% of the post office network's revenue comes from Government contracts.
The responsibility for awarding contracts to An Post in relation to Government services is a matter, in the first instance, for the Department or agency awarding the contract. Furthermore, under procurement legislation, contracts must be awarded following a transparent public procurement process. It is an operational matter for the Board and management of An Post as to whether they tender for Government contracts.
26 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his reason for not including an alcohol advertising ban in the Broadcasting Bill 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21393/08]
The regulation of alcohol advertising is a matter which falls to be addressed by a number of Government Departments including the Department of Health and Children and my Department in respect of broadcasting.
As the deputy will be aware the Department of Health and Children recently revised its voluntary code of standards in respect of alcohol advertising. This code was developed in association with the Institute of Advertising Practitioners in Ireland (IAPI), the Association of Advertisers in Ireland (AAI), and Drinks Industry Group Ireland (DIGI) with a view to minimising the exposure of young people to alcohol advertising including broadcast advertising.
In respect of broadcast advertising, section 42(1) of the Broadcasting Bill 2008 requires the new single content regulator, the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, to develop an advertising code, including advertising in respect of alcohol, which protects the interests of audiences.
Section 42(9) of the Broadcasting Bill 2008 also provides for the interim continuance of the Advertising Code published by the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland on 10 April 2007.
Part 8 of the BCI Advertising Code prescribes certain requirements in respect of alcohol advertising, including, as the Deputy will be aware, a ban on the advertising of certain categories of alcohol drinks.
29 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he is confident that Ireland will meet renewables and climate change targets as set down in the Government’s energy plans; his views on the ESRI’s recent forecast that Ireland will not reach its emissions targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21382/08]
I am confident that we will meet the Government's targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency as set out in the Energy Policy Framework and the Programme for Government. We have put in place a range of actions to ensure progressive delivery on these targets which will contribute to our overall emissions reductions targets.
30 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason for the delay in introducing regulations to provide for the tariff scheme for offshore wind; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21356/08]
The Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff (REFIT) support scheme as published is subject to EU State aids clearance. The majority of the term and conditions of REFIT as published will apply also to the additional categories of biomass, ocean energy and offshore wind which I announced in recent months. These additional categories are nevertheless amendments to the EU State aids clearance previously delivered. In line with the previous REFIT EU clearance, formal notification and agreement is also required before these new categories can be published in a binding format.
My Department is currently in communication with the EU Commission to ensure that the relevant approval is secured as quickly as possible.
31 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has concerns regarding the increasing costs of natural gas and supply thereof; and the situation in relation to domestic resources and import arrangements. [20946/08]
The Energy Policy Framework 2007-2020 sets out a range of actions designed to ensure the security and reliability of gas supplies for Ireland while we work to deliver greater diversity in the fuel mix.
The sources of Ireland's natural gas supply are indigenous production combined with imports from the UK to Ireland via sub-sea gas interconnection to the Moffat entry point located onshore in Scotland. The source of imported supply has largely been the North Sea although this situation is changing as the UK has moved to become a net gas importer. UK gas imports come from a range of sources and by a variety of routes from Continental Europe and from Norway.
With the decline of the Kinsale gas field and, pending the full development of the Corrib field, we now import over 90% of our natural gas from the UK. The connection of the Corrib gas field, with its estimated capability to supply some 60% of our annual natural gas requirements over the first 3-4 years of production, will also significantly reduce our dependence on imports during that period.
The prospect of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal at Shannon is a potentially positive step in securing diversified gas supplies for Ireland. The recently finalised study on a common approach to natural gas storage and liquefied natural gas on an all-island basis, which was commissioned by the two Departments North and South, is currently being assessed.
In the context of new record peaks this year in international gas prices, the prospect of price increases later this year has been signalled by Bord Gáis and the Commission for Energy Regulation. High gas prices underline the imperative of achieving a more diverse and sustainable fuel mix together with enhanced energy efficiency.
32 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the proposal that the Corrib refinery be moved from Bellanaboy to an alternative site in County Mayo. [21353/08]
40 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the recent proposal for relocation of the Corrib terminal or refinery to the coast which would obviate the need for an onshore pipeline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21363/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 32 and 40 together.
The location of an onshore gas terminal is a matter for the developer who must then obtain the necessary planning permission. I have no statutory role in this regard. In the case of the Corrib Gas Project the onshore gas terminal at Bellanaboy is currently under construction having been granted planning permission by An Bord Pleanála under the Planning and Development Acts in October 2004.
33 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent to which he has monitored the increases in the price of motor diesel and its expected negative impact on all sectors; further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 231 of 23 April 2008 wherein he made reference to euro-dollar fluctuations, the way it is possible that the increased strength of the euro against the dollar seems not to have been of benefit to consumers here; if he will carry out an investigation into what appears to be an attempt by oil companies to penalise road users for using diesel oil; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21417/08]
49 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on calls from an organisation (details supplied) for an investigation as to the unprecedented increase in the price of diesel over petrol prices; the measures he will take to address the rising cost of diesel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21360/08]
55 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will bring forward measures to give the energy regulator, CER, co-competition powers with the Competition Authority over the oil and liquid fuels market; if he will direct CER to investigate and report on pricing policies in the oil and liquid fuels market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21364/08]
199 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent to which petrol and diesel prices here compare with those in other EU States, including the UK, the currency of which has faltered against the euro; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21633/08]
200 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has undertaken inquiries into the reason or reasons that the price of diesel oil has increased so dramatically; the extent to which oil companies have increased the price of the fuel in order to capitalise on its eco-friendly status; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21634/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 33, 49, 55, 199 and 200 together.
The price of oil, diesel or petrol, which is set on international markets, is outside our direct control. The Irish oil industry is fully privatised, liberalised and deregulated. There is free entry into the market. Prices at the pump reflect global market price, transportation costs, Euro/Dollar fluctuations and other operating costs.
The Competition Authority is a statutory independent body with a specific role in the enforcement of competition law. The National Consumer Agency has specific responsibilities for protecting the rights of consumers. Their function is to ensure that competition works optimally for the benefit of consumers throughout the country.
Ireland's high dependence on imported oil makes us price takers, sensitive to the volatility of the markets and reflecting a range of market factors. Traditionally, diesel has been less expensive than petrol in Ireland at the forecourts. This was due to the fact that international prices for both products were previously in the same range, and excise duty was (and still is) lower on diesel. The excise differential in favour of diesel is 7.46 cents.
Currently, there are a number of factors that account for the higher price of diesel relative to petrol. These include an increased demand for diesel in Europe as well as China and other developing economies. This has led to the European demand for diesel exceeding the supply from European refineries. Diesel is now being sourced from farther afield, particularly from Russia.
In addition, the US oil industry has made a strategic choice to produce more petrol relative to diesel, believing that there would be a high demand for petrol but in fact, consumer demand for petrol was less than anticipated this winter, which has resulted in surplus stocks of petrol in the US. High Stocks are likely to have curbed flows of exports of petrol from Europe to the US, leaving high stocks of petrol in North West Europe. A combination of these market factors has contributed to the rise in diesel prices relative to petrol.
The increase in the price of diesel is affecting all of Europe. EU price figure comparisons published on 19th May 2008, show that the average price of diesel in Ireland in April was €1.248 per litre. This price ranks as the eighth cheapest price out of the 27 EU Member States reported by the EU on 19th May. The average price of diesel in the UK in the same report was €1.561 per litre and the average EU price for diesel was €1.40 per litre. These comparisons demonstrate that Ireland is by no means the worst affected country in Europe in relation to the price of diesel.
It is also the case that the increase in the price of oil generally, for both petrol and diesel, would be even higher for the consumer if the effect had not been moderated to date by the sharp depreciation of the dollar against the Euro. This is particularly clear when recent price increases for a barrel of oil are compared with relative increases in diesel and petrol prices.
The Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) is the independent body responsible for overseeing the liberalisation of Ireland's electricity and gas sectors. The CER has no role in regard to the oil industry, which is already fully deregulated.
Government policy on prices is concentrated on the promotion of competition, consumer choice and awareness. The Deputies will be aware that petrol stations are required to display their prices in a clear manner, so that consumers can make an informed choice when purchasing fuel. Consumer protection is a matter for the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, and consumers can report any infringements of the law to the National Consumer Agency.
The upward global trend in oil prices reinforces the imperative for Ireland to reduce its oil dependency and to use energy wisely and efficiently. The actions we are taking to accelerate delivery of our targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency, are essential to ensure a sustainable energy future for the economy and for consumers.
34 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the measures he will bring forward to facilitate the progression of next generation networks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21367/08]
I propose to issue a draft policy paper shortly on Next Generation Broadband. The paper will set out the framework for Government policy and related proposed actions in this area. I will be inviting comments on the draft paper through an online consultation process.
Whilst I cannot indicate the detail of the paper at this juncture, I can say that it is my ambition for Ireland to have a Next Generation Broadband infrastructure that will underpin a transformation to a knowledge economy based on leading edge development and application of Information Communications Technology (ICT). It is also my firm view that, in the main, it is the private sector that should build and finance Next Generation Broadband networks.
The role of Government is to ensure that the legislation and regulatory regime is such as to promote competition and investment by the private sector in Next Generation Broadband.
Direct Government investment in broadband infrastructure will be primarily targeted at supporting regional competitiveness and addressing digital divide issues. I do not see the role of Government investment as supporting one particular broadband technology or platform.
In addition to an online consultation process referred to above, I also propose to hold a one-day forum to hear the views of all stakeholders on the overall framework and specific policy actions.
As the Deputy is aware, my Department has been given the new responsibility of drawing up a new Action Plan on the Information Society. I envisage that the Broadband Policy Paper and the subsequent consultation process will be an important input into this Action Plan.
35 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position of the tendering process for the State’s emergency call service; when it will be implemented; the amount it will cost; if there will be a period when some people may be left without this service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21387/08]
In September 2007, my Department went to public tender seeking invitations for undertakings to provide an Emergency Call Answering Service. The closing date for the receipt of tenders was in December 2007. The evaluation of these tenders is almost concluded.
Following the selection of the highest ranked bidder, it is proposed to enter into detailed discussions for the delivery of the service. It is expected that an accurate estimate of the cost of the provision of the service will not be available until these detailed discussions are completed.
It is proposed that a transition period will be put in place to allow migration to the new service and to ensure continuity of the service for all emergency calls.
36 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position and prospects for oil exploration off the coast; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20947/08]
Ireland's offshore remains a relatively under-explored area with a history of poor prospectivity compared to other locations such as the North Sea. In order to change such negative perceptions, the Government has sponsored major resource assessments during 2005–2006, which indicate a yet to find reserve potential of between 8 and 10 billion barrels of oil equivalent.
This is the total combined quantity of potentially recoverable oil and/or gas (expressed as barrels of oil equivalent) indicated by these assessments for the Porcupine, Rockall, Slyne, Erris and Donegal basins, off the west coast of Ireland.
The figures are the output of regional geological studies into the petroleum systems which govern the presence or absence of oil and gas, and are based on the best available data and analytical methods. While the figures are indicative of the area's likely prospectivity, they relate to ‘potential' and not to ‘proven' reserves. The only way of determining actual reserves is to drill wells on prospects.
While this has assisted in encouraging new exploration, further work is needed to address the relative scarcity of geological and geophysical data over large areas of the Atlantic Basins. Additional acquisition of such data will reduce the perception that Ireland's offshore is a high risk exploration location.
Although potential has been demonstrated for both oil and gas offshore Ireland, it would require exploration drilling activity to be substantially increased to assess the reserves and the possibility of their commercial recovery.
There is evidence of a continuing upswing in the level of interest in exploration offshore Ireland, both in terms of the increase in the number of exploration authorisations awarded and in the number of major international companies applying for licences or buying into existing licences. Drilling activity, actual and scheduled, though fairly modest by international standards, is currently at its highest level in decades and is set to continue in the coming years.
Exploration investment has been encouraged through active promotion of the opportunities by my Department and the holding of regular licensing rounds. The next round will take place in the first half of 2009 in the Rockall Basin.
The tax regime applicable to oil production is a key factor in attracting internationally mobile exploration investment to Ireland. A comprehensive review of Ireland's licensing terms was carried out last year following which both the fiscal and non-fiscal licensing terms were revised. The revised terms will apply to all licences issued since 1 January 2007. The revised fiscal terms provide for a higher tax rate on more profitable fields, where the maximum tax rate is now 40% compared to 25% previously. The overall objective is to make Ireland's offshore sufficiently attractive to secure ongoing exploration investment while ensuring a fair return to the State.
37 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he proposes to take or has taken particular or specific initiatives with a view to encouraging service providers here to bring the standard, quality and spread of service in respect of broadband, mobile telephony and all forms of modern telecommunications up to best international practice thereby providing consumers here with a quality of service available worldwide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21416/08]
Broadband services are provided in the Irish market by the private sector, with appropriate regulation from the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg).
The role of Government is to ensure that the appropriate regulatory regime is in place and to also invest directly in the case of market failure such as the proposed National Broadband Scheme.
The latest figures from the OECD show that Ireland experienced one of the fastest rates of growth in broadband take-up in the OECD and had a penetration rate per capita of over20%. ComReg has found that 44% of Irish households had a broadband connection at the end of September 2007. I expect that ComReg data for quarter 1 of 2008 will confirm that we are now well over the 50% household penetration mark.
There is also evidence on the supply side of greater bandwidth being made available at lower prices such as the recent offerings by two companies of 12Mbps and 15Mbps at €40 and €45 per month respectively.
Internationally, telecommunications is moving to next generation broadband to deliver greater quality, speed and service to the consumer. This is happening where there is strong competition and incentives to innovate. I will shortly publish for consultation a policy paper that will set a framework for investment by the private sector in next generation broadband and for the role of Government. I will welcome all views on the paper.
38 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position of the decentralisation programme for his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21366/08]
As part of the Government's decentralisation programme, the headquarters of my Department is scheduled to relocate to Cavan at the end of 2010. This will involve the relocation of approximately 300 posts.
122 civil servants have signed up to decentralise with my Department to Cavan to date. 47 have already relocated to interim accommodation in Elm House, Cavan. This figure is expected to be augmented by an additional 13 staff, bringing the total working there to 60, when the next phase of temporary accommodation comes on stream shortly.
In addition, my Department continues to progress an additional 54 applications from civil servants who have expressed an interest on the Central Applications facility (CAF) in relocating to Cavan.
My Department is liaising with the Office of Public Works (OPW) on accommodation needs for further phases of relocating staff in advance of the planned permanent move. In addition we are liaising with OPW on the specification for a purpose built permanent building on the site which OPW have already acquired in Cavan town.
39 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when he will introduce a system of postcodes; if he will publish the national postcode project board’s feasibility study and cost-benefit analysis on the potential introduction of postcodes; the amount of the final cost of implementation of postcodes that will be financed by the taxpayer; if there will be a general consultation process before a system of postcodes is introduced; the type of postcode system he favours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21358/08]
A proposal, based on the recommendations of the National Postcode Project Board (NPPB) concerning the introduction of postcodes, was made to Government in May 2007. The work of the NPPB focused on quantifying the costs and benefits of postcodes to the postal sector including postal operators and customers and did not explicitly address non-postal costs and benefits. Two extensive consultations with stakeholders both within and outside the postal sector were carried out as part of the process. The proposal of the NPPB was to proceed with an alpha-numeric postal sector postcode model.
The consultants assisting the NPPB estimated that the upfront cost of establishing, implementing and promoting the postcode would be in the region of €15m with any ongoing expenses to be met from revenues generated by the postcode manager.
Government decided last year that prior to the introduction of postcodes, further analysis to quantify the wider economic implications should be carried out. My Department has recruited consultants to assist it in carrying out this analysis, in order to establish a more complete estimate of the costs and benefits of postcodes to the public sector. This work will be completed shortly. On receipt of the analysis I will assess the position with a view to a further submission to Government.
41 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps he is taking to provide broadband access outside the main urban centres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19792/08]
47 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps which he is taking to ensure the roll out of broadband in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19791/08]
53 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position of the national broadband scheme; if the NBS will include areas that to date can only access expensive and slow broadband with no competition in the same area as well as areas that have no access to broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21373/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 41, 47 and 53 together.
The provision of broadband services is, in the first instance, 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 included providing grant-aid under the Group Broadband Scheme (GBS) and ongoing investment in Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs).
Although broadband is now widely available in Ireland there are still some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband services. These areas are being addressed by the National Broadband Scheme (NBS), which will provide broadband services to areas that are currently unserved and will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband are met.
The first phase of the NBS procurement process (Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ)) is now complete, and four candidates pre-qualified to enter the next phase of the procurement process. Following the withdrawal of one of the candidates, the remaining three candidates have now commenced "Competitive Dialogue" with my Department and are developing their proposed solutions to meet my Department's requirements for the delivery of broadband to the unserved areas of the country. It is anticipated that a preferred bidder will be selected in August 2008, with rollout to commence as soon as possible thereafter.
My Department has recently received notice of Judicial Review proceedings regarding certain elements of the NBS mapping process. These proceedings are currently before the Commercial Court and due for hearing on 10 and 11 June 2008. A speedy conclusion of the matter has been requested in order to advance the NBS as quickly as possible.
Finally, I welcome the roll out of all electronic communication infrastructure by service providers, which increases competition in the market. Increased competition gives rise to better quality services, increased choice and more competitive prices, all of which are good for the Irish consumer.
42 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position of plans for exploration of oil in the Porcupine Basin; if he will provide a list of companies interested in this exploration; if he is satisfied that a full public consultation has taken place; the safeguards put in place to ensure accountability in the tendering process for oil exploration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21375/08]
During the 2007 Porcupine Basin Licensing Round, four applications were received which have resulted in the award of exploration licences over areas totalling some 4,700 square kilometres. These licences are additional to four existing licences which were granted under previous licensing rounds. Details of these licences can be found in the following table.
|
Licence No |
Licensee(s) |
Acreage held (in km2) |
|
1/08 |
ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Ireland (Offshore) Limited Providence Resources plc Sosina Exploration Limited |
1570.3 |
|
2/08 |
ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Ireland (Offshore) Limited Providence Resources plc Sosina Exploration Limited |
1581.3 |
|
3/08 |
Island Oil and Gas plc Supernova Ireland Resources BV |
801.62 |
|
4/08 |
Providence Resources plc Sosina Exploration Ltd Challenger Minerals Inc |
741.06 |
|
1/04 |
Island Assets Porcupine Limited Valhalla Oil and Gas Limited Supernova Ireland Resources BV |
622.06 |
|
2/04 |
Providence Resources plc Sosina Exploration Limited |
500.95 |
|
3/04 |
ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Ireland (Offshore) Limited Providence Resources plc Sosina Exploration Limited |
1,295.27 |
|
1/99 |
Eni Ireland BV |
1,553.62 |
Details of all petroleum exploration authorisations granted by the Department are included in reports published twice a year that are laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas.
The broad criteria for assessing applications for exploration authorisations, is set down in the Department's "Licensing Terms for Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration". The key considerations include the quality and extent of the work programme proposed, along with the demonstrated technical competence, financial capacity and experience of the companies involved in the application. For each individual licensing round the Department will also publish specific conditions that must be met by applicants. All application received by the Department are subject to a detailed evaluation based on the relevant award criteria.
In advance of each licensing round the Department arranges for a comprehensive strategic environmental assessment to be carried out over the area to be offered for licensing. Each strategic environmental assessment includes a public consultation phase. In the case of the 2007 Porcupine Licensing Round the public consultation included meetings with identified stakeholder groups along with open days in Galway, Limerick and Bantry.
43 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the North-South interconnector and the report into overhead versus underground transmission lines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21398/08]
In the course of EirGrid's pre-planning public consultations on proposed routes for the North-South and Meath-Cavan transmission lines, concerns were expressed locally about the impacts of overhead transmission lines. Noting that these concerns are likely to be common to all transmission line projects, and in order to provide clarity on issues in relation to overhead versus underground transmission lines, I decided that the Department would commission an independent national study on this issue.
International consultants Ecofys were appointed to undertake the independent study on the comparative merits of overhead electricity transmission lines versus underground cables. The consultants were appointed on 8th April 2008 following a tender process launched on 29 February on the Government's eTenders website.
Ecofys, which is based in the Netherlands, with offices in twelve different countries worldwide, specialises in energy saving and renewable energy solutions. Ecofys are also utilising the services of Golder Associates, a global group of consulting companies specialising in ground engineering and environmental services. Golder has provided environmental consultancy services for a range of electricity generation and transmission related projects both in Ireland and the UK.
The independent study is being undertaken by Ecofys as a national assessment as opposed to being project-specific. The study will offer professional advice on best international practice for the construction of transmission lines, thereby informing debate and decisions on national transmission development.
In tandem with the tender process, my Department placed advertisements in nine national newspapers requesting submissions from the public on the issue. Over 500 submissions were received by the closing date of 7 March. The consultants have been furnished with these submissions and will consider points raised in their analysis of the merits or otherwise of underground and overground options. The consultants will also be available to meet with the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, to discuss the details of the report, once published.
The report is scheduled to be finalised by early June and will be published thereafter. The time frame for completion of the work is in line with the tender specification.
44 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress in relation to the relocation of the Central Fisheries Board to Carrick-on-Shannon; the amount paid in rent for the CFB in Swords offices, including additional accommodation such as the warehouse and laboratory premises; when is it intended that the relocation will take place; the plans for the CFB premises in Glasnevin; the reason for its being vacated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21365/08]
The decentralisation of the Central Fisheries Board (CFB) involves relocating the entire Headquarters complement to Carrick-on-Shannon. In that regard, I can advise the Deputy that 41 staff have been recruited to posts relocating since the announcement of the decentralisation programme, the majority of which are temporary.
The other major element of the Decentralisation Programme relates to accommodation. Accommodation and property issues are in this regard a matter for the Office of Public Works (OPW). I understand that there were significant challenges in identifying a suitable accommodation solution for the board. However, I am pleased to advise that a new property in Carrick-on-Shannon is currently being jointly assessed by my Department, the OPW and the CFB, and may provide a solution which meets with the approval of all concerned.
In relation to the CFB's former and current premises, I can confirm to the Deputy that relocating the staff of the CFB from Glasnevin was due to inadequacies in those premises on health and safety grounds. No decision has been made yet as to the disposal of the Glasnevin premises when vacant.
The issue of rents paid by the CFB is a day-to-day operational matter for the board itself and I have no function in that regard.
45 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he is satisfied that ComReg has effective enforcement mechanisms to ensure that performance targets for communications operators are met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21500/08]
I am satisfied that the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) has effective enforcement mechanisms to ensure that performance targets for communications operators are met.
ComReg's enforcement powers were substantially enhanced by the Communications Regulation (Amendment) Act 2007 including:
The creation of new summary, indictable and continuing offences for breaches by operators of obligations imposed by ComReg;
Conferring on ComReg competition law powers to allow it to investigate and prosecute anti-competitive behaviour or abuse of dominance in the electronic communications sector; and
Providing ComReg with increased information gathering powers and power to investigate overcharging.
I have no further plans in this regard.
46 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans for the development of the Arklow wind bank; the timeframe for any development; if he will provide a summary of the number of wind farms; the plans for further wind farms; the number of grid connections with wind farms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21355/08]
196 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number and extent of wind generated electricity available to the national grid; the number of applications for admission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21630/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 46 and 196 together.
The electricity generation and supply markets are both fully liberalised. The future development of any wind-farm in the context of the liberalised market, including any future developments on the Arklow Banks, is a matter for the commercial judgement of the developers concerned. I am fully supportive of the development of our offshore wind potential and I have announced the expansion of the Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff (REFIT) Scheme to encompass offshore wind developments.
Current data on grid connections published by EirGrid indicate there are approximately 80 wind-farms connected with a combined installed capacity exceeding 800 megawatts (MW). A further 40 or so projects with a combined capacity of 466 MW have contracted for connections.
A further 1300 MW of capacity will move from connection offers currently to contracted projects in the near future as part of the Gate 2 process. A further 4300 MW of capacity represents projects which have yet to secure a signed connection agreement.
Overall, the number of wind-farm projects now in the frame for connection demonstrates the steady progress towards achieving our renewable energy targets for 2010 and for 2020.
48 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the recent European Commission report that found that the necessary safeguards were not in place to ensure that RTÉ and TG4 were drawing a clear distinction between public service and commercial activities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21378/08]
The investigation into the funding of public service broadcasting in Ireland, to which the Deputy refers, arose in the context of a formal complaint, made originally in 1999, alleging infringements of Articles 92–94 of the EC Treaty relating to, among other things, the payment of licence fee revenue and direct grants to RTÉ.
The Amsterdam Protocol to the European Treaty establishes the competence of Member States to provide for the funding of Public Service Broadcasting (PSB) in recognition of its direct relationship with the democratic, social and cultural needs of each society and with the need to preserve media pluralism. The Amsterdam Protocol permits such funding insofar as it is granted to broadcasting organisations for the fulfilment of their public service remit and insofar as such funding does not affect trading conditions and competition in the Community to an extent which would be contrary to the common interest.
Following a period of investigation, the EU Commission forwarded an Article 17 letter to the Irish Authorities on 3 March 2005 setting out its preliminary views in relation to the compatibility of the funding arrangements for RTÉ with the requirements of the EU Treaty. Negotiations between the European Commission and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources led to the resolution of these issues in early 2008 culminating in a letter of commitment by the Irish Authorities to certain undertakings and an EU Commission announcement to close the investigation. These commitments, including a commitment to determine the scope of the public service remits of RTÉ and Teilifís na Gaeilge by enumerating their respective objects and duties in broadcasting legislation, and to limit the use of public funding by RTÉ and Teilifís na Gaeilge to the achievement of such public service objects and duties, are being formally undertaken in the context of the Broadcasting Bill, 2008, which I introduced recently into the Oireachtas.
Question No. 49 answered with Question No. 33.
50 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will explain what he means by calling for a debate on nuclear power; if he will remove the ban on nuclear power that exists here; the Government position with importing electricity generated by nuclear power; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21388/08]
I believe that the public would be better informed about the energy security and climate change challenges we face by an informed debate on what alternative fuel supplies we can turn to as we withdraw from our use of fossil fuels. I believe that a debate on nuclear power fits within such a context. It could best take place within the remit of an Oireachtas committee given that the committees can work in a public manner that is on the record and where relevant expertise and research resources can be directed to the issue.
I believe that such a debate would confirm that nuclear power is not a suitable or desirable choice for Ireland and that such a conclusion would reaffirm public commitment to the alternative renewable and energy efficiency solutions.
While the use of nuclear fission for the generation of electricity in Ireland is statutorily prohibited under Section 18(6) of the Electricity Regulation Act 1999, this prohibition does not include the importation of electricity generated by nuclear energy.
Legal advice received by my Department states that such a prohibition would be in breach of Article 28 of the EC Treaty, which prohibits quantitative restrictions on imports and all measures having equivalent effect between Member States.
I am therefore advised that a prohibition on the importation of electricity generated with the use of nuclear energy would be highly unlikely to have a legal justification even if it were technically feasible.
I am further advised that it is not technically possible to guarantee that electricity imported over an interconnector is not generated from nuclear sources as it is not physically possible to prevent the flow of nuclear generated electricity onto the network. Nor is it possible to distinguish the flow of electricity across interconnectors by reference to the original source of supply or generation.
51 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his Department will complete an efficiency review and audit of all State agencies and bodies under the responsibility of his Department; if he has plans to merge or abolish any State agencies or bodies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20592/08]
In Budget 2008, the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance announced the requirement for all Government Departments to examine all administrative spending under their aegis with a view to producing efficiency savings. All non-commercial State Bodies under the aegis of my Department were requested to carry out an efficiency review in this regard and report back to my Department by 9 February. The responses of the various Bodies were taken account of in the efficiency review, which was submitted by my Department to the Department of Finance in March and which is currently under consideration in that Department.
The recently published Broadcasting legislation proposes the establishment of a new Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI). The BAI will be a new regulatory authority replacing both the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland and the Broadcasting Complaints Commission.
I am currently considering, on foot of proposals received from the fisheries boards, the most appropriate way forward in terms of streamlining the structures of the Central and Regional Fisheries Boards.
In general, I would emphasise that Value for Money is a high priority issue. I fully support the efficient and effective use of taxpayers' money and the continuous achievement of Value for Money. My Department continuously seeks to deliver programme and administrative expenditure as approved each year by the Dáil, in a Value for Money way while meeting the policy objectives underpinning this expenditure.
52 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will work with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to address the continued decimation of the retail service station network here and ensure that this critical infrastructure remains an integral part of the key national infrastructure for energy security; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21399/08]
The Irish oil industry is fully privatised, liberalised and deregulated. There is free entry into and out of the market. Current trends in the retail petrol station network are a matter for the commercial companies themselves and I have no statutory function in the matter.
I have recently commissioned a study on the security of Ireland's access to oil supplies, which will include an assessment of the existing structure and structural trends of the Irish oil industry and its ability to maintain adequate supplies into the Irish market on a national level. However, while the study will provide useful analysis of the overall trends in the oil market, I must emphasise that decisions on retail petrol outlets are entirely a matter for commercial companies.
56 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the Audiovisual Media Services Directive; the implications for Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21397/08]
I welcome the new Audiovisual Media Services Directive which builds on, and replaces, the Television Without Frontiers Directive.
The new Directive is timely, given the need to address technological developments in the audiovisual sector and the ongoing need to maintain a balance between economic and public interest objectives. The Directive has a wide range of provisions addressing matters including; scope, jurisdiction, commercial communications, promotion of the European content industry and cultural diversity, access for people with a hearing or visual disability, access to events of major importance to society, consumer protection, and media literacy.
I am cognisant of the fact that a predictable regulatory framework is important for all audiovisual media services in this fast moving environment and work on the transposition of the Directive is underway in my Department. I am also using the opportunity provided by the Broadcasting Bill 2008, which I introduced to the Oireachtas recently, to bring forward some of my proposals in this regard.
57 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the breakdown of tax free allowances in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare in view of the fact that the person’s spouse is not working; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21640/08]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the taxpayer is entitled to the married personal tax credit of €3,660 and the employee (PAYE) tax credit of €1,830, making a total of €5,490 per annum, with a standard rate cut-off point of €44,400. A certificate of tax credits and standard rate cut-off point issued to the taxpayer on 9 February 2008. The taxpayer, as a married person whose spouse is not employed, may be entitled to claim the home carer's tax credit of €900 provided that his spouse is caring for their child or other dependent persons. An explanatory leaflet and application form issued to the taxpayer on 27 May 2008 to enable him claim this credit, if appropriate.
58 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be facilitated (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21587/08]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
59 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the health repayment scheme administrators make telephone calls to elderly claimants, such as in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; her views on whether this practice is fair and acceptable; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21528/08]
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has responsibility for administering the Health Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive.
The HSE has informed my Department that the Scheme Administrator has taken a proactive approach to clear the large amount of deficient claims submitted under the scheme. The majority of these claimants would have received multiple letters seeking additional information and follow up phonecalls.
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.
60 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of persons with an intellectual disability and those with autism accommodated in psychiatric hospitals; the number of same accommodated in de-designated units which were formerly designated as psychiatric services; the numbers of same moved from psychiatric hospitals prior to 2002 to alternative accommodation which is now unsuitable for their needs; the names and locations of the hospital, units and other accommodation in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21533/08]
61 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of her Department’s programme to transfer persons with an intellectual disability or autism from psychiatric hospitals and other inappropriate placements; the progress made in implementing this programme since 2002; the number of persons moved from inappropriate placements to appropriate accommodation in each year since 2002; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21534/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 60 and 61 together.
The National Intellectual Disability Database, (NIDD), report for 2007 identified 329 individuals with intellectual disability, all aged 20 years or over, as being accommodated in psychiatric hospitals. It should be noted that registration on the NIDD is voluntary.
An integral part of the National Disability Strategy is the Multi-Annual Investment Programme, (MAIP), announced in the 2005 Budget, which provides €900m for the period 2006 to 2009. MAIP contains specific commitments in relation to the provision of specific high priority disability services over the period 2006 to 2009. MAIP commitments include the development of new residential, respite and day places for persons with intellectual disability and autism in each of the years covered by the programme as well as the transfer of persons with intellectual disability/autism from psychiatric hospitals and other inappropriate placements.
The Deputy's specific questions, in relation to the progress and details of the programme to move those individuals to more appropriate accommodation, relate 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 these matters investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
62 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children when funding for 2008 will be provided for people with autistic spectrum disorders and people with ASD who are exiting rehabilitative training to an ASD placement. [21541/08]
As part of the Multi-Annual Investment Programme 2006-2009 under the Disability Strategy, the Government provided the Health Service Executive with an additional €75m in both 2006 and 2007. This funding included monies to provide new and enhanced services for people with disabilities, to implement Part 2 of the Disability Act 2005, which came into effect on June 1st 2007 for the under 5's and also for the continuation of the implementation of the transfer of persons with intellectual disability from psychiatric hospitals and other inappropriate placements. A further €50m investment was announced in the 2008 Budget.
The Deputy's question refers to services which fall within the remit of the Health Service Executive. 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.
63 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there are a large number of applications for domiciliary care allowance awaiting medical assessment at an office (details supplied) in Dublin 10, that they do not have a full complement of medical staff at present and that all medical duties carried out by the area medical officers are delayed; the steps being taken to address this serious problem; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21546/08]
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.
64 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children if her Department or any of its agencies has a grant system available to which a person (details supplied) in County Kildare can apply to seeking assistance on a business proposal on child therapy care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21573/08]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my 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.
65 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Health and Children when she will be in a position to publish the report on the review of neurology services. [21581/08]
A Strategic Review of Neurology services in Ireland has been undertaken by the Health Service Executive (HSE). The Review was overseen by a multidisciplinary Steering Group whose aim was to identify the current level of service provision and future requirements for neurology and neurophysiology services in Ireland. The specific objectives were to:
1. Describe the epidemiology of neurological conditions in Ireland.
2. Evaluate current neurology services, including paediatrics and neurophysiology.
3. Review the evidence in relation to models of service delivery and make a recommendation on the preferred model for the Irish health system.
4. Identify requirements for the development of neurology and neurophysiology services nationally and prioritise service requirements.
5. Report to the Director of the National Hospitals Office.
Work on the review has recently been completed and the final draft report has been submitted to the Director of the National Hospitals Office for consideration. The findings will help to inform the approach taken by the HSE to the future development of these services.
The publication of the review is a matter for the Executive and accordingly my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
66 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Health and Children when she will be in a position to implement the national strategy for stroke care. [21582/08]
In September last year, Minister Harney established a Cardiovascular Health Policy Group to advise on how to prevent the occurrence of cardiovascular disease and stroke and improve services for individuals affected by these conditions. The National Audit of Stroke Care which was recently published by the Irish Heart Foundation with the support of my Department, has highlighted a number of areas where clinical care and the organisation of stroke services can be enhanced. The Audit has informed the work of the Cardiovascular Health Policy Group which is expected to report within the next few months.
67 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of an application for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21586/08]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive (HSE) under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. The HSE's responsibility includes the operation of the Housing Aid Scheme for the Elderly, on behalf of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. The 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.
68 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will guarantee that funding for renovations at Ennis Hospital will be delivered in full and on time; the projects this money will be used to complete; and if the costings of these works are based on current estimates and not old estimates drawn up some years ago when improvements were originally promised. [21600/08]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
69 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will receive an appointment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21604/08]
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.
70 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of persons who have been called for and have undergone a procedure (details supplied). [21609/08]
BreastCheck commenced roll-out in the Western Region last May and in the Southern region last October. I officially opened the BreastCheck clinical static units in Galway and Cork last December. The expansion of the BreastCheck programme to the Southern region covers counties Limerick, Kerry, Cork, Waterford and Tipperary South Riding. The expansion of the BreastCheck programme to the West covers counties Clare, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, Sligo and Tipperary North Riding.
The Deputy's specific questions in relation to mammograms are the responsibility of the National Cancer Screening Service. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Chief Executive Officer of the Service to respond directly to the Deputy in relation to the matter raised.
71 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children the arrangements in place to give service to those patients throughout the Dublin region who have been covered by the hospital in the home scheme; her views on the concerns of many in respect of this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21615/08]
One of the key challenges facing the health service is the need to ensure that services are planned and provided in line with the clinical need of the patient. A number of experimental initiatives have been put in place by the Health Service Executive with a view to providing care in community based rather than hospital based settings where clinically appropriate. The Hospital in the Home Service is one such initiative, along with the introduction of Primary Care Teams, Community Intervention Teams, a Rapid Access Service for the Elderly and the GP Out of Hours service.
The Hospital in the Home Service was delivered by a private service provider on the basis of a service level agreement with the HSE and was for a period of one year. This agreement came to an end on the 16th March and was extended by agreement until 11th May 2008. During the year, the service treated in the region of 2,000 patients at an annual cost of €6.83m.
A review of the service was carried out between January and March of this year under an independent Chairperson. The review made a number of recommendations. The main recommendation, which has been adopted by the HSE, is that the concept of the "Hospital in the Home" be retained and that the service should be repatriated within existing HSE post-acute care and community services.
The HSE is considering the manner in which it can best mainstream the service previously offered by the service provider into the Executive. In this context the scope and capacity of the Community Intervention Teams in the Greater Dublin Area are being examined by the HSE with a view to absorbing the service. The HSE has emphasised that no patient will be disadvantaged by this decision.
72 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be admitted for follow up treatment at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21641/08]
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.
73 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children when the 2007 report of the Alcohol Marketing Communications Monitoring Body will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21692/08]
74 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children when the revised voluntary code to limit the exposure of young people to alcoholic drink advertising will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21693/08]
75 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the research and analysis she has undertaken in advance of revising the codes to limit the exposure of young people to alcoholic drink advertising and to determine the effectiveness of the current voluntary code; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21694/08]
76 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children when she will implement the recommendations of the working group on tackling alcohol misuse in Sustaining Progress to include representatives of the social partners on the Alcohol Marketing Communications Monitoring Body. [21695/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 73 to 76, inclusive, together.
The 2006 Annual Report of the Alcohol Marketing Communications Monitoring Body (AMCMB), established to monitor compliance with the voluntary codes, was submitted to my Department in July 2007. The Monitoring Body concluded that although there had been a number of breaches of the code throughout 2006, there has been overall compliance with Voluntary Codes. The Monitoring Body were generally satisfied that where breaches were identified immediate remedial action was taken to rectify the situation and prevent recurrence. I expect to receive the 2007 Annual Report of the AMCMB in the coming weeks and I intend to have it published very shortly thereafter.
Following consideration of the 2006 Annual Report, officials from my Department commenced discussions with representatives of the Irish alcohol industry and representatives of the Irish advertising industry with a view to strengthening and expanding the codes on alcohol marketing and communications in order to provide significantly greater protection for children and young people. These discussions resulted in a revised set of Codes on advertising and sponsorship being drafted. Final drafting changes are currently being made to the revised Codes which are expected to be published before the end of June 2008.
The aim of the Codes on Advertising and Sponsorship is to limit the exposure of young people to alcohol advertising and marketing. My Department is satisfied that the Codes have been successful in controlling the content of alcohol advertising as well as controlling the timing and placing of alcohol advertisements. However, research is needed to establish how effective the Codes have been in limiting the exposure of young people to alcohol advertising and marketing. My Department intends commissioning appropriate research within the next 12 months to test the effectiveness of the Codes in achieving this aim. In monitoring the implementation of the revised Codes it is my Department's intention to facilitate further representation and involvement from the social partners in the process of monitoring compliance with the Codes through the AMCMB.
77 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the purpose of the mutual defence clause in the Lisbon treaty; if those to be defended and participating in the mutual defence refer solely to members of the EU which are being defended and who will do the defending under this clause; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21554/08]
78 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the decision making procedure for Ireland to join the Lisbon treaty’s permanent structured co-operation; if such a decision will require Dáil Éireann approval or a referendum of the people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21556/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 77 and 78 together.
The article in question refers and applies solely to Member States of the European Union. While the article sets down a requirement of aid and assistance to a Member State which is the victim of armed aggression, it provides no mechanism for implementation of such aid and assistance. Moreover, it specifically states that this commitment "shall not prejudice the specific character of the security and defence policy of certain Member States", a formulation originally proposed by Ireland to protect our position. It would, therefore, be for Ireland to take its own sovereign decision on whether and how to come to another Member State's assistance, taking into account our traditional policy of military neutrality.
The Lisbon Treaty also makes provision for permanent structured co-operation among those Member States "whose military capabilities fulfil higher criteria and which have made more binding commitments to one another in this area with a view to the most demanding missions." It would, of course, be a matter for each Member State to decide whether to participate in such permanent structured co-operation.
There have been no proposals to date in this area. Moreover, the possible future development of structured cooperation would not in any way change the requirement for all European Union peace-keeping or crisis management missions to be decided upon unanimously by EU Member States. Participation by the Defence Forces in any overseas mission will, of course, continue to require compliance with the ‘triple lock' of Government decision, Dáil approval and United Nations authorisation. There have been no proposals to date in this area. Moreover, the possible future development of structured cooperation would not in any way change the requirement for all European Union peace-keeping or crisis management missions to be decided upon unanimously by EU Member States. Participation by the Defence Forces in any overseas mission will, of course, continue to require compliance with the ‘triple lock' of Government decision, Dáil approval and United Nations authorisation.
I would like to emphasise finally that the Bill for the referendum on the Lisbon Treaty specifically retains our Constitutional prohibition on participation in an EU common defence, should one ever be proposed.
79 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the service the marriages abroad section of his Department makes available to Irish citizens who wish to marry foreign nationals in other jurisdictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21566/08]
Many countries require non-nationals, before they can get married in their jurisdiction, to produce a certificate from their country of origin that they are free to marry. These are usually known as Certificats de Coutume, and, in effect, certify to the civil authorities of another State that a named Irish citizen is, in terms of Irish law, free to marry.
My Department's Consular Section, in Dublin and in Cork, may issue these certificates to Irish citizens who are resident in Ireland and whose applications meet the necessary requirements. If an Irish citizen is normally resident outside Ireland, the Embassy or Consulate of Ireland in that country will be happy to provide the same service. Application forms for Certificats de Coutume can be downloaded from the Department's website, www.dfa.ie , which also includes information concerning the requirements and procedures.
80 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if being in receipt of invalidity pension is a disqualification when applying for a community employment scheme; when this change was introduced and for what purpose; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21567/08]
Community Employment (CE) is an active labour market programme designed to provide eligible long term unemployed people and other disadvantaged persons with an opportunity to engage in useful work within their communities on a fixed term basis. The programme helps unemployed people to progress to the open labour market by breaking their experience of unemployment through a return to work routine and assists them in enhancing/developing both their technical and personal skills.
The aim of CE still remains as an active labour market programme with the emphasis on progression into employment. The programme is managed within this context, with consideration to the availability of resources and the needs of participants and the community. FÁS operates the programme flexibly as far as possible to ensure the continuation of community projects.
Persons aged 18 years and over who are in receipt of specific Social Welfare payments, one of which is the Invalidity Pension, may qualify for the Community Employment Part-time Integration Option. Similarly, the Part-time Job Option is available to those aged 35 years in receipt of specific Social Welfare payments, one of which is the Invalidity Pension. I should say, however, Department of Social and Family Affairs approval is required for each of these options if the person wishes to engage in employment of a rehabilitative nature.
81 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will carry out a special review of the job creation needs of Tallaght, Dublin 24; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that Tallaght is the third largest population centre here with a very young population and has lost a number of important jobs in recent times; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21543/08]
I am aware of the significance of the recent job losses for Tallaght and every effort is being made to create new employment opportunities in the area. At present, IDA Ireland is working with its existing client base to help them to further develop their businesses as well as providing world-class property solutions with supporting infrastructure. The development of the Grangecastle Business Park, combined with the development of the City West Business Park, will ensure that Tallaght and the surrounding area is an attractive location for investment. The Microsoft Corporation has selected Grangecastle for its new data centre and Wyeth Biopharma has announced that it is investing in the creation of dedicated Research and Development and process development facilities.
Enterprise Ireland's activity in Tallaght is focussed on the creation of new jobs through supporting entrepreneurs in manufacturing and internationally traded services companies. Enterprise Ireland activity, in terms of job creation, is focused on the retention and creation of new jobs in existing companies, and the creation of new jobs by supporting entrepreneurs to set up High Potential Start-Up Companies.
EI supports the provision of incubation space for start up companies and works towards enhancing the innovation capability of Ireland at a national and regional level by supporting research in companies and third level institutions. The M50 Enterprise Platform Programme is underway in the Institute of Technology in Tallaght, in conjunction with Blanchardstown Institute of Technology and Dublin City University. This is a one-year rapid incubation programme designed for entrepreneurs who wish to start their own business. The agency works closely with the Tallaght Institute of Technology in encouraging the commercialisation of research and has approved financial support of over €2.6m to the Institute for the development and management of a Campus based Incubation Centre. The agency has also approved support of €1.2m for a Centre of Excellence at the Institute, the focus of which is Microsensors for Clinical Analysis.
The role of South Dublin County Enterprise Board is to provide both financial and non-financial support for micro-enterprise in the start-up and expansion phases, to promote and develop indigenous micro-enterprise potential and to stimulate economic activity and entrepreneurship. The South Dublin County Enterprise Board remains central in assisting micro-enterprises to develop their growth potential and continues to be proactive in ensuring that available funds are targeted to maximize entrepreneurial development throughout 2008. I can assure you that the Industrial Development agencies will continue to promote and market Tallaght in order to bring about further job creation in the area.
82 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will clarify the position of Enterprise Ireland in relation to the European Defence Agency; the purpose of those attending meetings of the EDA from Enterprise Ireland; the nature of EDA meetings attended by Enterprise Ireland; the number of EDA meetings which Enterprise Ireland attended; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21553/08]
The Department of Defence has primary responsibility for Ireland's interaction with the European Defence Agency (EDA) and I have no function in the matter. Enterprise Ireland (EI) does not represent Ireland at meetings of the EDA and has no powers to conclude agreements relating to the EDA on behalf of the State. Ireland's representation at meetings of the EDA is provided by the Department of Defence. I understand from EI however, that at the request of the Department of Defence, EI has provided expert advice to that Department at specific meetings.
At the request of the Department of Defence, EI has attended a number of meetings of the Research and Technology (R&T) Points of Contact, the annual European Defence Agency R&T Conference and the CAPTEC Expert meeting on Space Systems and technologies. Following the decision by Government to join the Joint Investment Programme (JIP) on Force Protection, EI has also attended a number of meetings of the JIP Management Committee. The purpose of EI's engagement was to ensure that there was no conflict between R&T issues being addressed by the European Defence Agency, and those that were being addressed by the EU Commission meetings, which EI attend. EI's advice and participation at EDA meetings was considered beneficial in identifying any potential overlap that may have arisen in the R&T forum.
83 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her Department or any of its agencies operate a grant system that an applicant seeking to commence a business (details supplied) can apply for; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21572/08]
My Department does not provide direct funding or grants to businesses but provides funding to a number of State Agencies, including the County and City Enterprise Boards, Enterprise Ireland and FÁS, through which assistance is delivered directly to businesses.
Kildare County Enterprise Board (CEB) provides a source of support to small businesses with 10 employees or fewer. Subject to certain eligibility criteria new and developing enterprises may qualify for financial support from the CEB in the form of feasibility, employment and capital grants. In addition, Kildare CEB delivers a range of non-financial supports to improve management capability development within micro-enterprises designed to help new and existing enterprises to operate effectively and efficiently so as to last and grow.
Kildare CEB does not operate a specific childcare scheme. However, any viable business proposal coming forward for the establishment of a commercial childcare enterprise will be assessed against its normal range of evaluation criteria. I would suggest that the person concerned should, in the first instance, make direct contact with Kildare CEB, The Woods, Clane, Co. Kildare (Tel. No. 045 861707) and explore what level of assistance, if any, may be available to them.
84 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when a decision will be made on an application by a club (details supplied) in County Carlow for lottery funds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21530/08]
85 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the consideration he is giving to the sports capital grant application made by a club (details supplied) in County Dublin; if, in view of the fact that this application is for the extension of sports facilities for girls, he will make the necessary allocation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21545/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 84 and 85 together.
Under the sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, funding is allocated to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country.
Applications for funding under the 2008 programme were invited through advertisements in the Press on 13th and 14th of January and the deadline for receipt of applications was 29th February for paper-based applications and 7th March for on-line applications. All applications received before the deadline, including those from the organisations in question, are currently being evaluated against the programme's assessment criteria, which are outlined in the guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme. I intend to announce the grant allocations for the programme as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed.
86 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of schools on the DEIS list; the estimated number of school children in these schools that are not currently receiving funding under a school meals programme; the steps she is taking to encourage applications to identify the reason some schools have not applied; and her findings in this regard. [21511/08]
The school meals programme gives funding towards provision of food services for disadvantaged school children through two schemes. The first is the long-standing statutory urban school meals scheme, which is operated by local authorities and part-financed by the Department. The second is the school meals local projects scheme through which funding is provided by the Department to participating schools and voluntary community groups in both urban and rural areas, who are running specific school meals projects.
The Department of Education and Science has indicated that there are currently approximately 153,000 pupils enrolled in 873 DEIS schools. Over 93,000 pupils from 700 DEIS schools are benefiting under the school meals local projects scheme. This includes a variety of different types of school food projects, including DEIS schools who receive funding directly from the Department for either their full school population or for targeted pupils and also school food projects funded by the Department and operated by local and voluntary organisations for pupils from DEIS schools.
In addition, over 30,000 pupils in DEIS schools benefit under the urban school meals scheme. Given the possibility that some pupils may benefit under both schemes, it is estimated that between 30,000-60,000 pupils in DEIS schools do not currently benefit from the school meals programme.
The decision to operate a school food project or to apply for funding under the school meals local projects scheme rests with the school itself. Funding under the scheme must be targeted at disadvantaged school children and is intended to assist schools or groups who are operating their own school food projects, with the food costs of the project only. Responsibility for all aspects of the day-to-day operation of the scheme lies with the school. Demand for funding under the school meals local projects scheme remains high and additional funding provided in 2008 will be used to include more DEIS schools in the scheme.
87 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the changes in the way that farm assist is assessed; and if she will provide a copy of the assessment regulations that indicate the way claimants are now assessed and the changes that were introduced. [21529/08]
There has been no change in the assessment of farm income for the purpose of the farm assist scheme. However, since 26 September 2007 there has been a change in the method of assessment of earnings from insurable employment for the jobseeker's allowance scheme and some farm assist claimants who are also in insurable employment can benefit under this new assessment.
Under the new assessment the gross earnings less deductions for PRSI, Superannuation and Trade Union subscriptions are taken into account. A disregard of €20 a day is allowed for each day worked up to a maximum of €60 a week and the balance is assessed at 60%. Similar disregards apply if the spouse/partner is also in insurable employment.
Details of the new means assessment are contained in the Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 5) (Assessment of Earnings) Regulations 2007 (S.I. No. 700 of 2007) a copy of which is available on the Department's website at the following link: www.welfare.ie/topics/legis/si700_07.pdf
88 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the average time required for processing a fresh claim for unemployment assistance and unemployment benefit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21542/08]
The average processing times for applications for jobseeker's benefit in April 2008 was 2.61 weeks and for jobseeker's allowance was 4.59 weeks. The Department is committed to providing a quality customer service to all its customers. This includes ensuring that applications are processed and that decisions on entitlement are issued as expeditiously as possible having regard to the eligibility conditions which apply. These conditions vary between the two jobseeker schemes and involve, among other things, the need to establish the customer's social insurance record, establish the customer's identity or place of habitual residence and to assess means where appropriate. In some cases delays arise where customers fail to supply all pertinent information in support of their application.
The processes and procedures surrounding the authorisation of claims are kept under review and where efficiencies are identified they are implemented across the network of local offices. There is also a continued emphasis on providing staff with the necessary training and development to ensure they have the requisite knowledge and skills to carry out their work.
89 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the average time taken to process each social welfare payment type; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21596/08]
The Department is committed to ensuring that claims are processed and that decisions on entitlement are issued as expeditiously as possible having regard to the eligibility conditions that apply. These conditions vary from scheme to scheme and may involve, among other things, the need to establish the customer's social insurance record, verify medical incapacity for work, establish a customer's identity or their place of habitual residence and to assess means where appropriate. In some cases there is an unavoidable time lag involved in making the necessary enquiries to enable decisions to be made. Time can also elapse where the applicants do not supply all the necessary information in support of their claim. Increases in the number of claims can also impact on processing times. For example, in the case of family income supplement, improvements in the eligibility criteria and a heightened awareness campaign resulted in a significant rise in claims while the introduction of the half-rate carer's allowance scheme has impacted on claim processing in that area. The following tabular statement sets out on a scheme by scheme basis, in respect of the month of March, the average times taken to award new claims.
|
Scheme |
Average Weeks to Award |
|
Family Income Supplement |
11.43 |
|
Child Benefit(1) |
4.71 |
|
Child Benefit(2) |
21.59 |
|
Jobseeker’s Benefit |
2.24 |
|
Jobseeker’s Allowance |
3.95 |
|
Bereavement Grant |
0.78 |
|
Carer’s Allowance |
16.14 |
|
One-Parent Family Payment |
10.79 |
|
Illness Benefit |
0.91 |
|
Widow(er)’s (Non-Contributory) Pension & One-Parent FamilyPayment (Widows) |
10.53 |
|
Disability Allowance |
13.97 |
|
Invalidity Pension |
9.11 |
|
Widow(er)’s Contributory Pension |
4.52 |
|
State Pension (Non-Contributory) |
9.47 |
|
Household Benefits |
2.00 |
|
Free Travel |
0.04 |
|
State Pension (Contributory)(1) |
7.2 |
|
State Pension (Contributory)(2) |
28.24 |
|
State Pension (Transition)(1) |
5.89 |
|
State Pension (Transition)(2) |
17.1 |
(1) Domestic cases
(2) EU/International cases
90 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the average time taken to process a State pension application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21597/08]
Claims for State Pension (Contributory) and State Pension (Transition) are now fully processed within three weeks of receipt of the applications where all information is available. Average processing times for all claims now stand at less than 8 weeks for a State Pension (Contributory) and 5 weeks for State Pension (Transition).
The Department has commenced claim initiation on the State Pension Contributory scheme whereby customers are proactively invited to claim pensions in advance of reaching pension age in order to ensure their entitlement to pension is decided by the due date. Over the past year 59% of State Pension Non-Contributory claims were processed and decided within 8 weeks. The processes involved in deciding claims for the schemes are currently being reviewed with a view to reducing the time taken to decide claims. In order to facilitate a good customer service people are advised to apply for pension at least three months before reaching pension age so that their entitlement can be determined as close as possible to the due date.
91 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of people in receipt of the back to education allowance for each of the past five years; the cost for each of these years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21598/08]
92 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of people who have applied for the back to education allowance for each of the past five years; the number of people who have been denied the allowance because they are working rather than receiving a social welfare payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21599/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 91 and 92 together.
The BTEA scheme is a second chance education opportunity designed to remove the barriers to participation in second and third level education. It encourages and facilitates people on certain social welfare payments to improve their skills and qualifications and, therefore, their prospects of returning to the active work force. The objective of the scheme is to enhance the employability skills of vulnerable groups who are distant from the labour market.
Details of the number of participants on the back to education allowance scheme (BTEA) from 2002/2003 to the 2006/2007 academic years and the annual expenditure for the scheme from 2003 to 2007 are set out in the following tables. Records are not maintained of the number who are refused entry to the scheme.
|
Academic year |
Number of Participants |
|
2002/2003 |
6,473 |
|
2003/2004 |
7,648 |
|
2004/2005 |
7,308 |
|
2005/2006 |
7,285 |
|
2006/2007 |
8,090 |
|
Year |
Expenditure on Scheme |
|
€ |
|
|
2003 |
38,275,826 |
|
2004 |
44,160,264 |
|
2005 |
46,694,897 |
|
2006 |
52,069,963 |
|
2007 |
64,142,351 |
93 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount spent by the Government and by his Department in 2007 on the drug problem here; the amount assigned to date for 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21559/08]
94 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount spent under the National Drugs Strategy from 2001 to date in 2008; the breakdown of moneys spent on the drug problem since the strategy was initiated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21565/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 93 and 94 together.
The following table sets out the amounts estimated to have been spent on the National Drugs Strategy in the period since 2001. In this context, it should be noted that expenditure under the Young Peoples Facilities and Services Fund (YPFSF) was managed by the Department of Education and Science up to 2002. Responsibility for this funding transferred to my Department from 2003, which significantly increased the overall departmental spend on the drugs area in that year.
The drop in expenditure by my Department in 2004 arose from the mainstreaming of a number of community based drugs projects to other Departments and agencies that year. The relevant funding to support the ongoing activities of the projects transferred to the other Departments and agencies in this context.
Expenditure by other Departments on the drugs area has been compiled since 2005. The figures for 2005 and 2006 should be interpreted as indicative, however, as they relate only to services that are considered to be directly attributable to dealing with problem drug use. They do not take account of mainstream services that are available generally to the public, but which problem drug users can also avail of.
Finally, the Deputy should note that the allocation under the Drugs Initiative/Young Peoples Facilities & Services Fund in my Department's Vote for this year is €64.332m, an increase of 25% on the outturn for last year.
Expenditure to date this year is approximately €26m.
|
Year |
Expenditure |
||
|
Dept. of Tourism, Sport and Recreation/ Dept. of Community Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs |
Other Departments/ Agencies |
Total |
|
|
€m |
€m |
€m |
|
|
2001 |
8.743 |
Not known |
Not known |
|
2002 |
13.467 |
||
|
2003 |
36.463 |
||
|
2004 |
27.510 |
||
|
2005 |
33.962 |
160.97 |
194.932 |
|
2006 |
41.304 |
169.82 |
211.124 |
|
2007 |
51.518 |
Being compiled |
|
|
2008 to date |
25.770 |
||
|
Total |
238.737 |
95 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the community group projects that have received funding in Longford and Westmeath under the rural development programme since CLÁR was established with particular reference to the funding provided for each individual project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21576/08]
Since its establishment in 2002, my Department has managed the EU LEADER Programmes which fund community projects in the context of the Programmes' objective of improving the quality of life in rural areas. My Department's CLÁR Programme, which is a targeted investment programme in rural areas, has co-funded a number of community projects with LEADER.
In line with the ‘bottom-up' approach to the LEADER Programmes, decisions on projects to be funded are made by the Boards of LEADER Companies selected for the purpose of the implementing the Programmes, rather than my Department.
In the case of the counties referred to by the Deputy, the LEADER Companies that will have dealt with the funding of individual community projects are Longford Community Resources Ltd, Westmeath Community Development Limited and Mid-South Roscommon Rural Development Company Limited. Details of all such projects funded are available from the respective LEADER Companies.
96 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the extent to which forestry will play a part in energy requirements now and in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21628/08]
Wood energy is already playing a significant role in meeting Ireland's energy requirements. In 2006, solid biomass, primarily in the form of solid wood, accounted for 45% of renewable energy consumption in Ireland, mainly in the generation of heat in the domestic and wood processing sectors.
Projections by COFORD and Sustainable Energy Ireland indicate that there will be a potential annual supply of 2 million tonnes of wood biomass by 2020, based on a combination of energy wood from privately owned-forests, final harvesting residues from State owned forests, processing residues from the saw milling sector and recycled untreated wood. Furthermore, Sustainable Energy Ireland estimates that by 2020, refined wood fuels (wood chips and pellets) produced in Ireland could be meeting up to 5% of Ireland's heating needs.
97 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if applications received under the farm improvement scheme after the closing date of 21 October 2007 but before the date of announcement on 30 October 2007 that the scheme was closed will receive approval for payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21551/08]
Applications received under the Farm Improvement Scheme prior to its suspension on 31 October 2007 are being processed by my Department up to the level of funding provided for the Scheme in the 2006 Partnership agreement, Towards 2016.
98 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the single farm payment 2007 in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21577/08]
My Department has no record of having received an application from the person named in respect of the 2007 EU Single Payment Scheme, nor any communication from him concerning the matter. An official of my Department yesterday contacted the person named directly and requested him to outline in writing the reasons why the application in question was not submitted. Immediately on receipt of the letter sought from the person named, the matter will be fully considered and he will be advised directly of the position.
99 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the assistance he is providing to primary schools to enable them to carry out works to conserve the use of water in order to reduce the amount of water charges to be paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21510/08]
The demand for water in schools can be minimised through push type spray taps, low flushing toilets, urinal controls, fixing easily identifiable leaks etc. Guidance was recently issued to schools on the most appropriate measures to minimise excess consumption of water and to reduce wastage where it exists. In addition, water conservation issues will continue to be addressed by my Department as a matter of routine where new schools are being built or where major renovations are being carried out to existing schools under the schools modernisation programme.
Primary school authorities may use their annual minor works grant to fund measures to minimise water consumption. The minor works grant has increased by nearly 50% over the past two years and some €27m issued to primary schools at the end of last year for that purpose. Individual primary schools received a grant in the sum of €5,500 plus €18.50 per pupil. There is good potential for recovering or harvesting rainwater in schools to use for flushing toilets and where feasible these systems are being provided for in new school projects. Retro-fitting rainwater recovery into existing buildings is not possible without major intervention into the internal fabric and services of the building (dedicated water supply to every toilet in the building) and external drains (separating rain water and external drains and re-routing to a central collection point).
100 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of case conferences held annually between home-school community liaison officers, school completion programme officers; and educational welfare officers; the regularity with which they hold joint meetings; and if there is a joint strategy in place. [21512/08]
101 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Education and Science the annual case load of school completion programme officers in County Clare. [21513/08]
102 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Education and Science the annual case load of the education welfare officers in County Clare. [21514/08]
103 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Education and Science the arrangements in place in County Clare to co-ordinate the activities of home-school community liaison officers, school completion programme officers and education welfare officers. [21515/08]
104 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of students and families on the case loads of the home-school community liaison officers, school completion programme officers and education welfare officers. [21516/08]
107 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Education and Science the annual case load of home-school community liaison officers in County Clare. [21519/08]
108 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Education and Science the annual cost of the education welfare officers for County Clare. [21520/08]
109 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Education and Science the annual cost of the school completion programme in County Clare. [21521/08]
110 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Education and Science the annual cost of the home-school community liaison programme in County Clare. [21522/08]
111 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of education welfare officers in County Clare. [21523/08]
112 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school completion programme officers in County Clare. [21524/08]
113 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of home-school community liaison officers in County Clare. [21525/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 100 to 104, inclusive, and 107 to 113, inclusive, together.
To achieve the maximum benefits from the resources available to my Department to combat educational disadvantage in schools, a High Level Group was established to secure the improved integration of the services delivered by programmes and agencies on behalf of my Department. The principal objective of the Working Group is to develop protocols to guide the programmes and services and to foster collaboration and cooperation both at national and local levels.
To secure this objective the Working Group aims to:
Ensure maximum benefit is derived from the substantial personnel resources deployed in these programmes
Assist with the development and implementation of clearly articulated operational guidelines of best practice for collaboration in service delivery among the services and agencies
Establish co-operation, information sharing and acknowledged roles of responsibility.
The Home School Community Liaison scheme is a major mainstream preventative strategy targeted at the families of pupils at risk of not reaching their potential in the educational system because of background characteristics which tend to affect adversely pupil attainment and school retention. HSCL focuses directly on the salient adults in children's educational lives, seeking indirect benefits for the children themselves and works to involve parents in their children's education which is a crucial component in convincing young people of the value of education.
HSCL coordinators are assigned on a full time or shared basis between schools and are deployed to do full-time home school community liaison duties. For the first time, posts are shared across the two sectors — primary & post primary level, to facilitate local HSCL coordinators working with the families of disadvantaged children. A local committee structure at local level is established involving all relevant stakeholders and a National Coordination Team that comprises a National Co-ordinator and five Regional Coordinators support and manage the services of the HSCL scheme.
The School Completion Programme (SCP) is a preventative measure designed to combat issues of poor attendance and early school leaving. School attendance is a central objective of SCP with targeted interventions for children at risk of early school leaving through a variety of extra supports aimed at encouraging them to stay in school. The range of interventions is designed to support retention of young people in education through local strategies developed to ensure maximum participation levels in the education process. This entails targeting individual young people of school-going age, both in and out of school, and arranging supports to address inequalities in education access, participation and outcomes. It is based on the project model with an integrated approach involving primary and post primary schools, parents and relevant statutory, voluntary and community agencies. These supports cover both educational and non-educational interventions and are provided during and outside of school time. A local management committee, comprising of representatives of schools and other relevant agencies, manage each project.
School Completion projects are required to engage in a consultative and planning process with the school staff, with parents and with local representatives of relevant statutory, voluntary and community agencies in the development of annual retention plans. They must devise a collaborative programme of in-school and out-of-school actions that will prevent early school leaving and support young people with characteristics and behaviour that are indicative of real risk. A National Coordination Team that comprises a National Co-ordinator and four Regional Coordinators support the School Completion Programme. It is the task of the National Co-ordination Team to advise on and monitor the integrated area-based Retention Plans that support the young person at-risk at local level. A Programme Research and Development Officer provides research and administrative support for the development, delivery and evaluation of the School Completion Programme.
Educational Welfare Officers (EWOs) are appointed and deployed throughout the country by the National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) which is established under the Education (Welfare) Act, 2000 as the national body with responsibility for school attendance. The Act provides a comprehensive framework promoting regular school attendance and tackling the problems of absenteeism and early school leaving. The general functions of the Board are to ensure that each child attends a recognised school or otherwise receives a certain minimum education. I have been informed by the Board that it prioritises its resources to support the most disadvantaged areas and schools participating in DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) the action plan for educational inclusion. EWOs provide an intensive service in the designated areas. Outside of these areas, priority is given to children who are out of school or have significant difficulties with school attendance.
In addition to case work on referrals from schools EWOs also provide assistance and advice to parents whose children experience school attendance difficulties by arranging for continuation of education through alternative placement or assisting with application for home tuition. They also work closely with schools offering advice and assistance on developing policies to encourage children to attend school regularly. At both school and community level EWOs work in co-operation with other agencies to integrate delivery of services to schools, families and children. Furthermore EWOs also handle queries relating to the Educational (Welfare) Act, 2000, and school attendance issues in general. Where required the EWO has responsibility to initiate legal proceedings under the Act to safeguard the educational welfare of a child.
The Board operates through 5 regional teams and the service is provided from 26 locations nationwide. Resources to the EWB has grown incrementally since its establishment and future allocation to the Board will be considered in light of the rollout of services, the scope for integrated working and any proposals that the Board may submit to the department in relation to clearly identified priority needs. The allocation to the Board for 2008 is €10.119m. In relation to the Deputy's specific questions concerning the deployment and costs of EWOs in Co. Clare I am informed by the Board that there is currently one Educational Welfare Officer based in Co. Clare and the caseload for this EWO, during the current school year from September 07 to the end of April 08, is 131 cases involving intensive work and 78 of these cases are ongoing. For the previous school year 2006/2007 there was 143 cases dealt with by the EWO. The annual cost involves pay which is determined in accordance with a standard scale ranging from €37,121 to €59,211 and overhead costs associated with service delivery, such as the cost of providing office accommodation.
There are a total of 450 local HSCL coordinators providing services to 691 schools (370 Primary and 281 Post primary), with an additional 80 posts made available in 2006 to extend Home School Community Liaison services to all schools selected to participate in DEIS. Commitment has also been given to schools not selected to participate in DEIS but already in the HSCL scheme, to continue to support these schools in their efforts to deal with educational disadvantage among their students in line with both their size and level of disadvantage. 2,680 pupils attending 9 schools in Co. Clare (4 post primary & 5 primary) currently have access to Home School Community Liaison, with approximately 600 of these pupils' families being specifically targeted for the services of 6 local Home School Community Liaison Co-ordinators.
My Department is currently finalising a full review of Home School Community Liaison (HSCL) clustering arrangements in all schools participating in the scheme to ensure that all schools have a level of service which is commensurate with both the size of the school as well as its relative level of disadvantage. Any changes made in the HSCL clustering arrangements, which will take effect from 1 September 2008, will be notified to schools shortly.
SCP is funded on a multi-annual basis under the National Development Plan (NDP) and up to 2007 with assistance from the European Social Fund (ESF). €31.160 million has been allocated to SCP for 2008. There are currently 124 projects participating in the School Completion Programme spanning 26 counties, comprising 224 post-primary schools and 468 primary schools. Each project employs a local Co-ordinator to run the project at local level. My Department currently supports 7 schools (2 post primary and 5 primary schools) in 2 School Completion Projects in Co. Clare, under DEIS. These 2 School Completion Projects receive over €460,000 in total annually which targets approximately 557 young people and 21 out-of-school young people.
The substantial resources deployed in programmes to combat education disadvantage is a clear indication of this Government's commitment to prioritise investment in favour of those most at risk. Through improved co-operation and co-ordination of services we are determined to optimise access, participation and educational outcomes at every level of the system for disadvantaged children and young people.
105 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Question No. 480 of 8 May 2008 if the second bundle has been offered to the market and when it was offered; when it is envisaged that the second bundle will be formally announced; when the third bundle will be offered to the market; if the school in question will be included in the third bundle; when this decision will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21517/08]
The OJEU notice offering the 2nd Bundle of PPP Schools to the market was dispatched to eTenders on the 20th May 2008 and advertisements were also placed in the national print media. The Department is currently examining the feasibility of including the school referred to by the Deputy in the 3rd Bundle of Public-Private Partnership projects which I intend announcing later this year. The indicative timeframe for the delivery of a PPP schools currently stands at approximately 4 years from the date a bundle is formally announced.
106 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Education and Science if he is in receipt of an application for a communication device for a student (details supplied) in County Cork; if he will provide such a device; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21518/08]
As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENO) for allocating resource teachers and special needs assistants to schools to support children with special needs. SENOs also make recommendations where assistive technology is required. I can confirm that an application for a communication device in respect of the pupil in question has been received in my Department. Officials in my Department are liaising with the SENO and the Health Service Executive (HSE) in the context of the device being funded through the HSE Aids and Appliances grant scheme.
114 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will provide a full reply to Question No. 213 of 21 May 2008 regarding health and safety issues (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21536/08]
In accordance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work, Act 1989, it is the responsibility of school management authorities, including the authorities of the school in question, to have a safety statement in place in their schools. Schools are obliged to identify possible hazards, assess the risks to health and safety and to put appropriate safeguards in place. In practical terms, individual school authorities are best placed to assess the detail of their own health and safety requirements. My Department approved funding amounting to €416,000 under the Summer Works Scheme in period from 2004 to 2007 for works to the school building.
115 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will provide a full reply to Parliamentary Question No. 214 of 21 May 2008 regarding health and safety issues (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21537/08]
In accordance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work, Act 1989, it is the responsibility of school management authorities to have a safety statement in place in their schools. Schools are obliged to identify possible hazards, assess the risks to health and safety and to put appropriate safeguards in place. In practical terms, individual school authorities are best placed to assess the detail of their own health and safety requirements. My Department approved funding amounting to €187,000 under the Summer Works Scheme in the period 2004 to 2007 for works to the school building in question.
116 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will complete the reply to Parliamentary Question No. 215 of 21 May 2008 which sought the information of the person who is legally responsible and liable if a child or a teacher has an accident in the school yard in its present unsafe condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21538/08]
As indicated to the Deputy previously, the application from the school referred to is currently under consideration at present and it is expected that Department officials will be back in contact with the school authorities with a decision on this application very shortly.
With regard to the question of who is legally responsible and liable if a child or a teacher has an accident, it is the school authorities who are responsible in the first instance for health and safety issues at the school. The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 sets out the responsibilities on individual school management authorities to have a safety statement in place in their schools. It is also a matter for school authorities to determine school policies, taking into account any health and safety risks to children and to put appropriate safeguards in place to mitigate any potential risk to the school community.
As part of the management of the risks there is an onus on Boards of Management to ensure, as appropriate, that they have put in place comprehensive insurance cover for schools. Boards are advised by my Department to ensure that all such insurances are effected and maintained as are necessary to safeguard the school, the Board and the Trustees against all public liability.
A key element of the management of the risks is ensuring that there is adequate supervision of pupils in school yards. The Education Act assigns each Board of Management and Principal Teacher responsibility for the day-to-day management of schools. School Principals are obliged to organise supervision for the order and general behaviour of pupils during school hours. In particular, they should organise and participate in the effective supervision of the pupils during breaks, lunch-breaks, assembly and dismissal.
117 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 412 of 13 May 2008, if he has considered a request for a meeting with representatives of a school (details supplied) in County Cork to discuss progress in relation to the provision of a new secondary school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21540/08]
Schedules of overall accommodation for the school to which the Deputy refers have been agreed with Co. Cork Vocational Education Committee to cater for a long term enrolment of 325 pupils. The progression of this project as with all large scale building projects, from initial design stage through to construction phase, will be considered on an on-going basis in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
I will give consideration to such a meeting when I have fully examined issues relating to funding and other aspects of the School Building and Modernisation Programme.
118 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will meet the principal of a school (details supplied) in County Galway to discuss with them the state of the 109-year-old building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21562/08]
119 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the rat infestation in a school (details supplied) in County Galway and the fact that the building is riddled with dampness and generally in need of immediate remedial work or replacement; the steps he has taken to address same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21563/08]
120 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has received an application for a building grant from a school (details supplied) in County Galway; and when a decision will be made on the matter. [21564/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 118 to 120, inclusive, together.
An application for capital funding towards the provision of a new school building has recently been received from the school authority referred to by the Deputy. The Department is currently considering all appropriate accommodation options for the school and when a final decision is made the school authority will be notified of the position.
The long term projected staffing assessment and the further progression of the proposed building project will be considered on an ongoing basis in the context of my Department's multi annual School Building and Modernisation programme.
I will give consideration to meeting with the school authority when I have fully examined issues relating to funding and other aspects of the School Building and Modernisation Programme.
121 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the grants available from his Department or any of its agencies to a person seeking to start up education initiative (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21571/08]
My Department's main interventions in the area of Early Years education are in the areas of disadvantage or special needs and there isn't funding available from the Department or from its agencies to support play therapy centres. Support for childcare is provided by the Office of the Minister for Children under the National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 and the Deputy may wish to refer this to the OMC.
122 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will honour the commitment made prior to the last general election to provide a permanent autistic unit at a school (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21594/08]
The development of a building project for the school in question is at an early stage. A feasibility study has been carried out to assist in establishing an exact accommodation brief for the school, which would include the provision of an ASD unit.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered on an on-going basis in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the further progression of the project at this time.
123 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of payments issued under the remote area grant in each county in each of the past five years and the amount paid in each case; his views on whether people who have to avail of this school transport should be put under financial pressure because his Department no longer wish to pay the money until the end of the school year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21595/08]
The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available prior to 2007. However, over 1,100 payments were made by my Department for remote area grants in 2007. The grant ranges from €1.30 to €5.10 per day depending on the distance travelled.
I have already indicated to the Deputy, that, in general, remote area grants are paid at the end of the school year and my Department is currently reviewing cases where payments are currently being made on a more frequent basis.
124 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 404 of 20 May 2008, the detail of formal procedure in place at Athlone Institute of Technology; if his attention has been drawn to claims of bullying and harassment at the institute with particular reference to employees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21601/08]
The Institutes of Technology are statutory bodies established under the Institutes of Technology Acts 1992 to 2006. Under the terms of these Acts, the governance and day-to-day activities of the Institutes, including procedures for dealing with allegations of bullying and harassment, are matters for which the Governing Bodies and the Management of the Institutes are responsible.
It is my understanding that Athlone Institute of Technology has in place formal procedures for dealing with all allegations of bullying and harassment which provide for investigation of such matters by a third party. These procedures have been endorsed by the Governing Body of the Institute and neither I nor my Department have any role in relation to such matters.
125 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if school transport will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare in September 2008 in view of the fact that their immediate neighbours have such facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21638/08]
My Department has requested the Transport Liaison Officer (TLO) for County Kildare to examine the situation regarding school transport for the pupil referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied. The TLO has also been requested to inform the family of the position, as soon as possible.
126 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a school premises (details supplied) in County Kildare is sub-standard, damp, vermin-infested and inadequate in size, that four of the classes in this school are housed in prefab buildings some of which are over 20 years old, that the local community raised a substantial amount of money and in 2003 purchased a two acre site for a new school building to the rear of the existing premises and that all stages to tender for a new school premises have been completed; if this school will be included in the 2008 school building programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21691/08]
The project to which the Deputy refers is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning. The progression of all large scale building projects, including the this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered on an on-going basis in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
127 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will take steps to review a decision by his Department not to grant a special needs assistant to a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath despite the fact that all the professional reports indicated that this person would need the help of an SNA for a period of time; if he will ensure that the decision is reversed and the SNA granted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21696/08]
As the Deputy may be aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), for allocating resource teachers and special needs assistants to schools to support children with special needs.
All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.
I have arranged for the details supplied by the Deputy to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.
128 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Defence if he will define common defence as referred to in the Lisbon treaty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21555/08]
The provision on common defence in the Lisbon Treaty largely carries forward the existing Treaty provision on the possibility of the development of an EU common defence. The term is not further defined in the Treaties.
However, any decision to move to a common defence would have to be taken by unanimity, providing Ireland with the right to veto any such proposal. There is currently no indication that any proposal in this sense is likely in the foreseeable future.
I would also note that the stipulation in the existing Treaties that the policy of the European Union in the security and defence area "shall not prejudice the specific character of the security and defence policy of certain Member States", originally inserted at Ireland's behest, is carried forward in the Lisbon Treaty.
The wording of the proposed Constitutional amendment permitting ratification of the Lisbon Treaty carries forward the twenty-sixth amendment to our Constitution, approved by the people as part of the ratification of the Nice Treaty in November 2002. This amendment prohibits the State from entering into a common defence established under the EU Treaties. Hence, Ireland's position on the question of an EU common defence is clear. Under our Constitution, Ireland cannot participate in a common defence without the prior consent of the people in a referendum.
129 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Defence the projects Ireland are involved in within the European Defence Agency and what these projects entail; the purpose of these projects; the financial implications for those participating Member States; the financial contribution Ireland is making or expected to make arising from membership of the EDA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21557/08]
The European Defence Agency was set up in 2004 during Ireland's Presidency of the EU. Its mission is "to support the Member States in their effort to improve European defence capabilities in the field of crisis management and to sustain the European Security and Defence Policy as it stands now and develops in the future". Ireland participates in the framework of the Agency and is represented on the Steering Board by the Minister for Defence.
Since its inception, the Agency has made significant progress, notably in areas such as the development of the EDA Code of Conduct for defence procurement and a Code of Best Practice in the Supply Chain to ensure transparency in procurement and security of supply of defence equipment. A European Bulletin Board has been developed as a single portal for defence contract opportunities linking customers and defence contractors. Whilst Ireland does not have a defence industry per se, it can benefit as a buyer of defence equipment in terms of increased competition and from economies of scale from such developments.
Pursuant to the Government decision on participation in the framework of the EDA it was agreed that participation by Ireland in any specific investment project promoted by the EDA would be subject to prior consultation by the Department of Defence with an Taoiseach and the Minister for Foreign Affairs. The Minister for Defence, having consulted with An Taoiseach and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, approved Ireland's participation in the first project of this nature, the Joint Investment Programme on Force Protection (JIP-FP) which is in the area of Research and Technology.
In November 2006, the Steering Board of the EDA approved this Programme. Force Protection involves measures to protect defence forces engaged in peace support and crisis management operations overseas and is one of the main factors considered when undertaking any operation. As such, the development of enhanced capabilities in this area is one in which the Defence Forces have a great interest.
The JIP-FP Programme, which has a budget of €55 million over 3 years (which commenced in 2007) covers 18 specific research and technology goals under 5 capability areas:
Collective (units, platforms, infrastructure) survivability through enhancing detect and identify and response performances;
Individual protection;
Data analysis including data fusion from various sources;
Secured tactical wireless communication systems in urban environment;
Mission Planning/Training in an asymmetric environment
The Department of Defence sought admission to the Programme with a commitment of €700,000 over three years from 2007. The financial commitment is in accordance with EDA funding principles, based on the Gross National Income key. The Programme Arrangement for the JIP-FP was signed by the participating Member States at the EDA Ministerial Steering Board on 14 May 2007.
A second Joint Investment Programme on Innovative Concepts and Emerging Technologies was approved at a ministerial meeting of the EDA Steering Board on 26 May 2008. Eleven (11) European countries will contribute to the new initiative, which will be funded by a common budget of €15.5 million. Ireland has decided not to participate in the new programme on this occasion.
The financial contribution Ireland is making to the EDA will be in the region of €327,000 in 2008.
Participation in the framework of the Agency does not impose any specific obligations or commitments on Ireland other than a contribution to the budget of the Agency. Participation in individual projects of the Agency is a matter for national decision on a case-by-case basis.
130 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Defence if Ireland is part of the European Defence Agency’s intergovernmental regime for defence procurement; if so, if this participation was subject to the agreement of Dáil Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21558/08]
The European Defence Agency was established under a Joint Action of the Council of Ministers on 12 July, 2004 "to support the Member States and the Council in their effort to improve European defence capabilities in the field of crisis management and to sustain the European Security and Defence Policy as it stands now and develops in the future". The EDA is an Agency of the European Union. Ireland participates in the framework of the Agency and is represented on the Steering Board by the Minister for Defence.
The Agency has made significant progress in many areas since 2004, such as the development of the interGovernmental regime for defence procurement of which Ireland is a member. The EDA Code of Conduct for defence procurement and a Code of Best Practice in the Supply Chain was developed to ensure transparency in procurement and to create a more competitive European defence equipment market. The Defence Procurement Regime is now 21 months in operation.
There are 25 subscribing Member States (including Ireland) to the Code of Conduct.
Under the regime a European Bulletin Board has been developed as a single portal for advertising defence contract opportunities. 2007 was the first full year of operation through the Code of Conduct. The general consensus amongst participating Member States is that it has been a success. Whilst Ireland does not have a defence industry per se, we expect that benefits should accrue from being a subscribing Member State in terms of increased competition and resulting economies of scale when buying equipment.
On 6 July 2004, the Government approved participation in the framework of the EDA on the basis of a memorandum submitted by the Minister for Defence, in association with the Minister for Foreign Affairs. The agreement of Dáil Éireann was not required for this decision or the decision to participate in the Code of Conduct. Participation in the Regime was agreed by Ireland at the level of the EDA Steering Board in this instance.
There is no requirement for Dáil approval for participation in the Agency. The Agency is an intergovernmental agency within the framework of ESDP. Participation in the framework of the Agency does not impose any specific obligations or commitments on Ireland other than a contribution to the budget of the Agency. Participation in individual projects of the Agency will be a matter for national decision on a case-by-case basis.
131 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position with regard to Irish born children of foreign nationals and their right to remain here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21561/08]
An Irish born child born in the State prior to 1 January 2005 to non EU parents is automatically entitled to Irish citizenship. An Irish born child born in the State after 1 January 2005 to non EU parents may have an entitlement to Irish citizenship if one of his/her parents have at least three years legal status in the State prior to the birth of that child. Thus the issue of right to remain in the State does not arise in such cases.
An Irish born child born in the State to non EU national parents and who is not entitled to Irish citizenship but is resident in the State and in the care of their non EU national parents avails of the same permission to remain in the State as that granted to their parents. When such minor children reach sixteen years of age they are obliged to register, in their own right, with their nearest Immigration Officer .
132 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if through his Department or any of its agencies there is a scheme or a grant system available that an applicant can apply to in relation to child therapy care facilities (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21574/08]
My Department does not have responsibility for the matters referred to in the Deputy's Question.
133 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí who have lodged claims for compensation under the Garda Síochána Compensation Act 1941 for injuries sustained while on duty in connection with protests in the Belmullet area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21603/08]
My Department's database does not maintain information by reference to a generic incident description related to the cause of an injury. However, the Department is aware of three claims to date made by Gardaí under the Compensation Acts following injuries sustained while on duty during recent protests in the Belmullet area.
134 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 454 of 11 March 2008 if a permanent Garda has been appointed in a station (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21611/08]
I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of Quin Garda Station as of 30 April 2008, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 1. Quin Garda Station forms part of Ennis Garda District and the strength of the District as at the same date was 201.
The Deputy will appreciate that, as with any large organisation, on any given day personnel strengths of individual divisions, districts and stations may fluctuate due, for example, to promotions, retirements and transfers.
It is the responsibility of the Garda Commissioner to allocate personnel throughout the Force taking all relevant factors into account. The next allocation of Probationer Gardaí is due to take place on 13 June next. In that regard, the needs of the area referred to by the Deputy will be fully considered by the Commissioner within the overall context of the needs of Garda Stations throughout the country.
135 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 263 of 21 May 2008 the length of sentence served by each of the prisoners concerned;and if any temporary release has been granted. [21612/08]
Four of the prisoners concerned are serving 40 year sentences for capital murder and have been in custody since the 1980's. None of these prisoners have been out of prison without an escort at any stage of their sentence. The fifth person completed a six year sentence during which he received no temporary release. He has not been granted any temporary release since his recommittal to custody earlier this year.
136 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the professional support given to long-term prisoners who become psychologically institutionalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21613/08]
I take it that the Deputy is referring to the psychological support available to prisoners in custody.
Where a prisoner is assessed as having difficulties with their incarceration, steps are taken to provide assistance to address such problems while in prison. All prisoners have access to a range of therapeutic services, including access to medical, psychiatric and other healthcare services, if clinically appropriate. Prisoners also have access to the Prison Psychology Service. Referral to any particular service is on the basis of assessed need. While every effort is made to address identified problems within prison, the Deputy will appreciate that this also requires the active cooperation of the prisoner involved.
The Criminal Law (Insanity) Act, 2006, also provides a mechanism whereby a prisoner who is suffering from mental illness and who cannot be treated effectively within the prison may be transferred to a designated centre under the Act, for further treatment.
137 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans in place for the regulation of management companies in residential complexes. [21614/08]
The Law Reform Commission has indicated that it will publish, in the coming weeks, its Report on Multi-Unit Developments which, following an extensive consultation process, will contain definitive reform proposals concerning the regulation and governance of property management companies. The Government has already directed that early action be taken by the relevant Departments to address the Commission's reform recommendations; the types of action to be taken will, of course, be dependent on the form that the recommendations take.
138 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21642/08]
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 August 2005. Officials in that section inform me that processing of the application has commenced and further documents have been requested from the applicant. Processing of the application will continue on receipt of the documents requested. I will inform the Deputy and the person concerned when I have reached a decision on the matter.
139 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when extension of a visa will be arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21643/08]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the person in question has permission to reside in the State until 26 May 2009.
140 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected position in relation to an application for family reunification in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21649/08]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that there is no record of an application for Family Reunification from the person referred to by the Deputy.
141 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected position in relation to an application for naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin. [21650/08]
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 February 2008. Officials in that Section are currently processing applications received in late 2005 and have approximately 16,900 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. However, I understand that the person in question is married to an Irish national and every effort is made to ensure those applications are dealt with as quickly as possible.
142 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for asylum in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21651/08]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question number 539 of 17 April, 2008. The position remains unchanged. The person concerned continues to be illegally present in this State and should make himself known to the Garda National Immigration Bureau or the Gardaí without further delay so that arrangements can be made for his transfer to the United Kingdom.
143 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for family reunification in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21652/08]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the person in question made a Family Reunification application in November 2004. The legal representatives of the person in question were contacted on 13 July 2007 and again on 12 March 2008 regarding information originally requested on 21 February 2006. To date no documentation has been received by the Immigration Division. When the information requested by the Immigration Division is received the application will be processed further.
144 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to 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. [21653/08]
I refer the Deputy to the response to Parliamentary Question No 398 of 27th May 2008. The position remains as stated.
145 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or anticipated position in relation to an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21654/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 11 April 2005, accompanied by a minor child, and applied for asylum. Her application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 31 May 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 leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of deportation orders or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she and her child should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State.
Representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned and will be fully considered, under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, before the file is passed to me for decision.
146 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or anticipated position in relation to an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21655/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 30 July 2003 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), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 22 November 2004, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned and will be fully considered, under Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, before the file is passed to me for decision.
147 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected position in relation to the residency status of persons (details supplied) in County Kildare. [21656/08]
I refer the Deputy to my previous answers to Question No. 1044 put down for answer on 26 September 2007, No. 1203 put down for answer on 30 January 2008, No. 209 put down for answer on 21 February 2008, No 232 put down for answer on 6th March 2008 and No. 513 put down for answer on 17th April 2008.
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the person in question is the subject of a Family Reunification application which was refused in July 2006. I am also informed that the person in question has recently submitted additional documentation to the Family Reunification section and that this documentation is currently being considered. The Immigration Division will be in touch with the person in question shortly.
148 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21657/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 5 March 2003 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), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 13 January 2006, 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 leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State.
Representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned and will be fully considered, under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, before the file is passed to me for decision.
149 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if leave to remain on humanitarian grounds will be offered to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21658/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 10 February 2003 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), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 28 April 2004, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned and will be fully considered, under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, before the file is passed to me for decision.
150 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if leave to remain on humanitarian grounds will be offered to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21659/08]
The person concerned claimed asylum in the State on 2 July 2001 and had his claim examined by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner following which it was recommended that he should be recognised as a refugee. Based on this recommendation, the person concerned was issued with a formal declaration of refugee status by letter dated 29 July 2002. This communication also advised the person concerned of the rights and entitlements accompanying refugee status in the State.
The person concerned continues to hold the status of refugee in the State, so the question of leave to remain on humanitarian grounds does not arise.
151 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the recent developments or requirements in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21660/08]
I refer the Deputy to my previous answer to Questions Nos 945 & 990 put down for answer on 26 September 2007, Question No 205 put down for answer on 21 February 2008 and Question No 207 put down for answer on 6 March 2008.
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that a request was issued to the person referred to by the Deputy for birth certificates and passports in relation to her application for Family Reunification. The onus is on the applicant to provide this documentation in support of the Family Reunification application. The application will be further processed on receipt of this documentation.
152 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to a visa application and family reunification in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21661/08]
Based on the information provided by the Deputy, the Visa Office, Dublin, has been unable to trace a visa application for family reunification from the person concerned. The Visa Office operates a helpline each Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning from 10:00 to 12:30 on (01) 6167700 and has a dedicated email address for queries, visamail@justice.ie It is open to the applicant or his/her reference in Ireland to contact the Visa Office with the reference number of their visa application in order to ascertain the status of the application.
153 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the expected of proposed residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 2; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21662/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 7 September 2003 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), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 17 May 2004, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned and will be fully considered, under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, before the file is passed to me for decision.
154 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for refugee status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6; if same will be reviewed to take into account difficulties experienced in Germany; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21663/08]
It is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications. As the Deputy will be aware, applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted.
155 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21664/08]
It is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications. As the Deputy will be aware, applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted.
A final decision on this application will be made upon receipt of the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
156 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected position in relation to an application for naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 20; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21665/08]
Officials in the Citizenship Section of my Department inform me that there is no record of an application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question.
157 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21666/08]
As the Deputy will be aware, it is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications. Applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted.
Final decisions on these applications will be made following receipt of the decisions of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal and final processing of the applications.
158 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if leave to remain in the State will be offered to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21667/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 1 October 2000 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), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 25 September 2002, 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 leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations were submitted on behalf of the person concerned.
On 26 October 2004, the person concerned made an application for residency in the State on the basis of his marriage to an Irish National. Following consideration of this application, a decision was made to refuse the application, a position made known to the person concerned by letter dated 9 May 2006. This communication also advised the person concerned that it was proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, as provided for under Section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended), to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned and will be fully considered, under Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, before the file is passed to me for decision.
159 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21668/08]
The first named person concerned arrived in the State on 16 April 2003 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), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 29 May 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 leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. In addition, he was notified of his entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006). The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations and this application is under consideration at present. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome. If the Subsidiary Protection application is refused, the case file of the person concerned, including all representations submitted, will then be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. When this latter consideration has been completed, the case file of the person concerned is passed to me for decision.
The second named person concerned arrived in the State on 4 November 2004 and applied for asylum. Her application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 30 June 2006, 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 leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations were submitted on behalf of the person concerned. The second named person concerned was later notified of her entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006). The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations and this application is under consideration at present. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome. If the Subsidiary Protection application is refused, the case file of the person concerned, including all representations submitted, will then be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. When this latter consideration has been completed, the case file of the second named person concerned is passed to me for decision.
160 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21669/08]
It is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications. As the Deputy will be aware, applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted. A final decision on these applications will be made upon receipt of the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
161 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a person (details supplied) in County Dublin will be given leave to remain here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21670/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 6 June 2003 and applied for asylum on 10 July 2003. 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), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 25 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 leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned and will be fully considered, under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, before the file is passed to me for decision.
162 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected position in relation to a family reunification application in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21671/08]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the person in question made two applications under the Family Reunification Scheme. A decision issued from the Immigration Division to the person in question regarding her initial application on behalf of her three daughters on 24 July 2006 and a second decision issued to the person in question regarding her second application for a fourth daughter on 16 March 2007.
163 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected position in relation to a residency application in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21672/08]
I refer the Deputy to Question No. 127 of Thursday, 29 March 2007 and the written Reply to that Question. The person concerned arrived in the State on 9 October 2002 and applied for asylum. His application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 27 August 2004, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned and will be fully considered, under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, before the file is passed to me for decision.
164 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21673/08]
Further to the reply to Question No. 604 of 17 April 2008 I wish to inform the Deputy that representations under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 were received from the person concerned on 23 April 2008. Consideration is being given to these representations and the person concerned will be notified of any decisions made regarding his status in the State in due course.
165 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21674/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 11 July 2004 and applied for asylum. His application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 7 September 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 leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. In addition, he was notified of his entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006). The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations and this application is under consideration at present. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome. If the Subsidiary Protection application is refused, the case file of the person concerned, including all representations submitted, will then be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. When this latter consideration has been completed, the case file of the person concerned is passed to me for decision.
166 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an application for temporary permission to remain in the State will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21676/08]
I have been informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that a decision letter was issued to the representative of the person referred to by the Deputy on 17 April 2008. The person concerned should check with his representative to see if the correspondence was received.
167 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a stamp 4 visa will be arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21677/08]
As outlined in the reply to Question No. 211 of 14 February 2008, the Immigration Division of my Department received an application from the person referred to by the Deputy on 5 February 2008. As soon as a decision is made on the case the person concerned will be notified.
168 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or anticipated residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21678/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 9 August 2005, together with a minor child, and applied for asylum. She subsequently gave birth to her second child in the State and both of her children are included in their mother's asylum application. The asylum application was refused following consideration of the 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), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 13 April 2007, that the Minister proposed to make deportation orders in respect of her and her children. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of deportation orders or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she and her children should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State.
In addition, the person concerned was notified of her entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006). The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations. This application is under consideration at present. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome. In the event that the Subsidiary Protection application is refused, the case file of the person concerned, including all representations submitted, will then be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. When this latter consideration has been completed, the case file of the person concerned is passed to me for decision. The Deputy might wish to note that all decisions made in relation to the person concerned will apply equally to her dependant children.
169 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21679/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 26 April 2005 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), the person concerned was informed by letter dated 9 November 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 leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations were submitted by the person concerned. The person concerned has also submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006) and this application is under consideration at present. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome. If the Subsidiary Protection application is refused, the case file of the person concerned, including all representations submitted, will then be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. When this latter consideration has been completed, the case file of the person concerned will be passed to me for decision.
170 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21680/08]
It is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications. As the Deputy will be aware, applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted. A final decision on these applications will be made upon receipt of the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
171 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 1; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21681/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 18 February 2001, in the company of his father, and was included in his father's application for asylum in the State. However, the person concerned was taken into the care of the Health Services Executive in 2003 and subsequently applied for asylum in his own right on 8 March 2006. His asylum 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), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 9 November 2006, 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 leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations have been submitted by the person concerned.
The person concerned also submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006). However, this application was deemed invalid as it was not signed by the applicant. The legal representative of the person concerned was notified of this discrepancy, by letter dated 15 December 2006, and was requested to submit a signed form containing the signature of the person concerned. By letter dated 20 November 2007, the legal representative of the person concerned informed my Department that the person concerned wished to withdraw his application for Subsidiary Protection in the State. The case of the person concerned now falls to be dealt with in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended). The representations submitted by and on behalf of the person concerned will be fully considered, under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, before the file is passed to me for decision.
172 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if extended residency will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21682/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 4 February 2004 and applied for asylum. Her application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 30 April 2008, 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 leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. In addition, she was notified of her entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006). To date the person concerned has not submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State. Neither has she submitted any representations in support of an application to remain temporarily in the State. If this position continues to pertain, the case file of the person concerned will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement before the file is passed to me for decision.
173 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will accept a belated submission from a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21683/08]
I refer the Deputy to the Reply I gave to Question No. 214 of Thursday, 14 February 2008. The person concerned is the subject of a deportation order following a comprehensive examination of his asylum claim and of his application to remain temporarily in the State. In addition he has been evading his deportation since 10 August 2004 and should therefore present himself to the Garda Authorities with any further delay. As a matter of policy, I do not intend to reward persons who have failed a very fair and comprehensive asylum process, and who have thereafter proceeded to evade their deportation for several years, by granting such persons residency in the State. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if there has been a change in the circumstances of the person concerned, or if new information has come to light which has a direct bearing on his case, there remains the option of applying to me for revocation of his Deportation Order pursuant to the provisions of Section 3(11) of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended. However I wish to make clear that such an application would require substantial grounds to be successful.
174 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8. [21684/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 9 May 2003 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), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 5 November 2004, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a deportation order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations were submitted on behalf of the person concerned. By letter dated 21 November 2006, the legal representative of the person concerned requested that his client be permitted to submit an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006). My Department informed his legal representative that the person concerned was eligible to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State, however, to date no such application has been received from or on behalf of the person concerned. The case file of the person concerned, including all representations submitted, will now be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. When this consideration has been completed, the file will be passed to me for decision.
175 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21685/08]
It is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications. As the Deputy will be aware, applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted. A final decision on this application will be made upon receipt of the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
176 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the procedure to be followed by persons (details supplied) in County Kildare who wish to apply for Irish citizenship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21686/08]
The Deputy has not provided sufficient information with regard to the persons in question to enable me to give a detailed response. Consequently, I can only set out the position generally. The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended, provides that the Minister may, in his absolute discretion, grant an application for a certificate of naturalisation provided certain statutory conditions are fulfilled. These conditions are that the applicant must be of full age, or by way of exception, be a minor born in the State; be of good character; have had a period of one year's continuous residency in the State immediately before the date of application and, during the eight years immediately preceding that period, have had a total residence in the State amounting to four years; intend in good faith to continue to reside in the State after naturalisation; and have made, either before a Judge of the District Court in open court or in such a manner as the Minister for special reasons allows, a declaration in the prescribed manner, of fidelity to the nation and loyalty to the State. Section 16 of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended, provides that I may, in my absolute discretion, waive some or all of the statutory conditions in certain circumstances i.e. where an applicant is of Irish descent or of Irish associations; where an applicant is a person who is a refugee within the meaning of the United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees; or where an applicant is a Stateless person within the meaning of the United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Stateless persons. If the Deputy wishes to furnish further particulars officials in the Citizenship section of my Department will be happy to advise.
177 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to prevent the spread of Lagarosiphon Major on Lough Corrib, Lough Mask and Lough Carra; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21539/08]
Lagarosiphon major, also known as the curly-leaved pondweed, is a native of southern Africa. It has been widely sold for many years as an oxygenating plant for garden ponds and aquaria. However, it is viewed as a major threat to Irish lakes and their associated wildlife since it became established in Lough Corrib in 2005. Surveys which have been carried out by the Central Fisheries Board have found no evidence of Lagarosiphon major in either Lough Mask and Lough Carra. A Lagarosiphon Task Force has been established to address the spread of the pondweed in Lough Corrib and in any other areas where it is identified. The Task Force includes representatives of my Department's National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Central Fisheries Board, the Western Regional Fisheries Board, the Office of Public Works and Galway County Council. Last year, my Department provided funding to the Central Fisheries Board to purchase a weed cutting boat to be dedicated exclusively to removing Lagarosiphon major in Lough Corrib. I understand that the boat is now moored on the lake and will begin operations shortly. In this regard, I have provided additional funding of €200,000 this year to the Central Fisheries Board for work involving the removal and control of Lagarosiphon major in the lake. I am also aware that the Western Regional Fisheries Board recently appointed consultants to undertake a Biosecurity Plan for Lough Mask. The Plan will examine current biosecurity threats including invasive species and take into account the need to protect upstream lakes such as Lough Carra.
178 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which national and European climate change targets are expected to be achieved on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21619/08]
EU compliance with the Kyoto Protocol will be assessed on the basis of greenhouse gas emissions throughout the Community over the five-year commitment period 2008-12. I am confident that Ireland will meet its emissions target within the overall EU burden sharing agreement for purposes of compliance with the Protocol.
179 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason many elderly people are getting back replies from their respective local authorities stating that they do not qualify or are covered under the housing adaption-mobility aid grant schemes and schemes of housing aid for older people; and if he will investigate this matter county by county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21575/08]
The administration of the revised suite of housing adaptation grants for older people and people with a disability in individual cases, including the processing and approval of individual applications, is a matter for the relevant local authority and is one in which my Department has no direct function.
180 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the roll out of heritage officers or the appointment of heritage officers for each local authority will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21578/08]
The employment of Heritage Officers is a matter in the first instance for each Local Authority. The Heritage Council, under the aegis of my Department, initiated a partnership programme with Local Authorities in 1999 to facilitate the employment of Heritage Officers. The programme involves the allocation of funding to local authorities for the employment of Heritage Officers and the provision of training, technical and professional support. Funding for the programme is provided from my Department's Built Heritage Capital Programme and administered by the Heritage Council. Total expenditure on the programme from 1999 to 2007 is €3.9 million with €500,000 being provided this year. I understand that Heritage Officers have been appointed in 27 of the 34 county and city councils.
181 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the overdue remedial works scheme for the regeneration of an estate (details supplied) in County Westmeath which had its first public consultation in 2002 and a date of 2003 for completion of the pilot scheme is expected to commence and be allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21579/08]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 240 of Wednesday, 14 May 2008. The position remains unchanged.
182 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the proposed development at Newtownforbes, County Longford which does not satisfy the aims of the Newtownforbes local area plan for 2006 to 2012 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21580/08]
My Department has been advised by Longford County Council that the closing date for submissions in relation to the planning application referred to in the Question has recently passed. The Council will take into account the need for consistency with the objectives of the Newtownforbes Local Area Plan 2006 — 2012 in its consideration of the application.
As Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, I am precluded under section 30 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, from exercising any power or control in relation to any individual planning application or appeal with which a planning authority or An Bord Pleanála is or may be concerned.
183 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when an application will be processed for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21585/08]
I am advised that the Chief State Solicitors Office is currently in contact with the vendor's solicitors with a view to closing this sale.
184 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he is in a position to approve the contract for the Courtmacsherry-Timoleague sewerage scheme in west Cork. [21608/08]
The Courtmacsherry/Timoleague Sewerage Scheme is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009 as a scheme to start construction in 2009.
My Department is examining a revised Preliminary Report for this scheme which was recently received from Cork County Council and is being dealt with as quickly as possible.
185 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will review the Irish Broadcasting Bill 2003 and hold discussions with the various sporting bodies to extend the number of sporting events covered under the Bill, namely, Munster rugby matches and provincial GAA matches; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21584/08]
The Audiovisual Media Services Directive provides that Member States of the European Union may take measures to ensure wide access by the public to television coverage of national or non-national events of major importance for society. The events designated are available to qualifying broadcasters to provide coverage on free television services. The events are designated under The Broadcasting (Major Events Television Coverage) Act, 1999 (Designation of Major Events) Order 2003. These include a number of significant sporting events. When carrying out a review of events to be designated, consideration is specifically given to the extent to which the event has a special general resonance for the people of Ireland and the extent to which the event has a generally recognised distinct cultural importance for the people of Ireland. The legislation specifies that a review should be carried out every three years. The next review is scheduled to take place in 2009.
186 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress in extending broadband to County Clare; if Shannon will be included in the new network generation pilot scheme; when this scheme will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21593/08]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is 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 Group Broadband Scheme (GBS) and investment in Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs).
Although broadband is now widely available in Ireland there are still some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband services. These areas are being addressed by the National Broadband Scheme (NBS), which will provide broadband services to areas that are currently unserved, including any unserved areas in County Clare and will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband are met.
The first phase of the NBS procurement process (Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ)) is now complete, and four candidates pre-qualified to enter the next phase of the procurement process. Following the withdrawal of one of the candidates, the remaining three candidates have now commenced "Competitive Dialogue" with my Department and are developing their proposed solutions to meet my Department's requirements for the delivery of broadband to the unserved areas of the country. It is anticipated that a preferred bidder will be selected in August 2008, with roll out to commence as soon as possible thereafter.
My Department has recently received notice of Judicial Review proceedings regarding certain elements of the NBS mapping process. These proceedings are currently before the Commercial Court and due for hearing on 10 and 11 June 2008. A speedy conclusion of the matter has been requested in order to advance the NBS as quickly as possible.
A Draft Policy Paper on Next Generation Broadband is being prepared by my Department. The Paper reviews current communications infrastructure policy and analyses policy options in light of industry developments in relation to the optimum role for the Government in the planning and roll out of next generation broadband.
I intend to publish the paper as a consultation paper for public comment on next generation broadband shortly. The paper will set out policy actions to support the delivery of next generation broadband in Ireland.
Additionally a Value for Money and Policy Review of Phase I of the Metropolitan Area Networks Programme is currently being finalised in my Department.
Both reports, which I intend to publish in the coming weeks, will help to inform future public investment decisions in the area of broadband.
187 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when it is expected that high-speed broadband will be available throughout County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21617/08]
The provision of broadband services is, in the first instance, 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. Details of broadband suppliers, prices and locations throughout the country are available on www.broadband.gov.ie.
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 included providing grant-aid under the Group Broadband Scheme (GBS) and ongoing investment in Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs).
Although broadband is now widely available in Ireland there are still some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband services. These areas are being addressed by the National Broadband Scheme (NBS), which will provide broadband services to areas that are currently unserved and will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband are met.
The first phase of the NBS procurement process (Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ)) is now complete, and four candidates pre-qualified to enter the next phase of the procurement process. Following the withdrawal of one of the candidates, the remaining three candidates have now commenced "Competitive Dialogue" with my Department and are developing their proposed solutions to meet my Department's requirements for the delivery of broadband to the unserved areas of the country. It is anticipated that a preferred bidder will be selected in August 2008, with roll out to commence as soon as possible thereafter.
My Department has recently received notice of Judicial Review proceedings regarding certain elements of the NBS mapping process. These proceedings are currently before the Commercial Court and due for hearing on 10 and 11 June 2008. A speedy conclusion of the matter has been requested in order to advance the NBS as quickly as possible.
A Draft Policy Paper on Next Generation Broadband is being prepared by my Department. The Paper reviews current communications infrastructure policy and analyses policy options in light of industry developments in relation to the optimum role for the Government in the planning and roll out of next generation broadband. I intend to publish the consultation policy paper shortly.
188 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position in regard to the provision of east-west and North-South electricity interconnectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21618/08]
The planning, development and routing of transmission line infrastructure is a matter for EirGrid, which is the wholly State-owned company responsible for operating the electricity transmission system, including the wholesale electricity trading system. EirGrid delivers connections, transmission and market services to generators, suppliers and customers, using the high voltage electricity system and in this context is also responsible for planning the construction of high voltage transmission lines.
The approval of the Transmission System Development Plan, which includes power lines, is a matter for the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), which is statutorily independent in carrying out its functions. Individual power lines also require approval through the relevant planning process.
EirGrid is developing the second North South electricity interconnector in conjunction with its Northern Ireland counterpart in the context of the Single Electricity Market. The increased capacity provided by the interconnector will enhance security of supply and promote competition. In addition to the benefits on an all island basis, EirGrid is strengthening the high voltage network in Counties Meath, Cavan and Monaghan, thereby adding to the availability of bulk high quality power in the North East. The importance of strengthening the network is shown by the fact that such networks have helped facilitate high-tech manufacturing plants in north-west Dublin and east Kildare.
EirGrid is currently engaging in further public consultation on the North South interconnector and Meath Cavan transmission lines. Following that consultation process, a formal application will be made to An Bord Pleanála.
With regard to the East/West interconnector, in 2006 the Government requested the CER to arrange the design of a competition to secure the construction of a 500 megawatt interconnector by 2012. The Government decided that the interconnector will, as a national strategic asset, remain in public ownership and will be owned by EirGrid. To this end, I have introduced legislation, which recently completed Committee Stage in the Dáil, to allow EirGrid to construct, own, operate and maintain the interconnector.
I am advised that EirGrid expects the contract for design and construction of the interconnector to be completed by late 2008, when the successful bidder will be announced. EirGrid has secured Woodland in County Meath as the connection point for the interconnector on the Irish transmission system and Deeside in Wales on the UK side. Furthermore, EirGrid has undertaken a marine survey to determine the most suitable route for the undersea cable. Late 2011 is the target for the completion of works and 2012 is the target for the completion of commissioning and testing and the start of commercial operations.
189 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of exploration licences issued in the past 12 months; if all have been activated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21620/08]
In the period 1 May 2007 to 30 April 2008, 113 new minerals prospecting licences and six petroleum exploration licences were granted. Activities related to the work programmes agreed for each licence are ongoing.
190 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent to which the digital hub has achieved or surpassed its potential; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21621/08]
The Digital Hub Development Agency (DHDA) is making significant progress in achieving the major targets set out in its development plan. The DHDA contains 96 digital media companies, employing 727 full time highly skilled staff and a further 250 contract workers. The companies generate spending of €45M in salaries per year.
The DHDA manages 10 operational office buildings totalling 150,000 square feet. The next phase of property development is currently going through the planning process; this will deliver 140,000 sq. ft of state of the art digital media space by 2011. Revenue generated from rental income, course fees and sponsorship accounts for 65% of DHDA's income with the balance provided by the Exchequer. The DHDA is on track to achieve self-funding by 2010. The DHDA's learning programmes supported 3200 participants in 2007.
The Digital Hub has made significant progress in constructing a vibrant, innovation driven, collaborative knowledge community built around digital media, which is a new industry for Ireland. This is making, and will continue to make a considerable contribution to the regeneration of the Liberties in Dublin.
191 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of occasions on which the electronic communications appeal panel has overturned decisions made by ComReg; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21622/08]
During the lifetime of the Electronic Communications Appeals Panel (ECAP) one Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) decision was overturned.
The Deputy will be aware that regulations were made amending the European Communities (Electronic Communications Networks and Services) (Framework) Regulations 2003 with effect 13 June 2007. The effect of the amending regulations was to discard ECAP and provide for determination of all future appeals against ComReg decisions by the High Court.
192 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when gas from the Corrib gas field will become available to the national grid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21623/08]
The developers of the Corrib Gas Project, Shell E & P Ireland Ltd, have stated their expectation that first gas will be available in the second half of 2009. Completion of the development works by the developers is the principal factor that will determine the date for first gas.
193 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of meetings he has had with members of RTE management in the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21625/08]
In the context of the development of broadcasting policy, my officials and I have cause to meet, from time to time, with the various interests that comprise the broadcasting sector including, but not limited to, commercial broadcasters, public service broadcasters including RTE, and independent producers.
194 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position in regard to net metering of electricity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21627/08]
Net metering, in the electricity market, requires that participating generators can access electricity meters which record both imports and exports of electricity or, at a minimum, meters which offset electricity imported by individual customers against volumes of electricity exported to the electricity system from the same property. Traditional electricity meters do not record or offset the volume of any electricity exported.
In line with the Programme for Government, work is underway on the roll out of the national smart meter programme. These meters, among other functions, can measure and record both imports and exports of electricity. The introduction of net metering will therefore be enabled by the national smart meter programme.
195 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent of gas, oil or other mineral discoveries of a commercial nature in the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21629/08]
As outlined in the reply to question number 232 on 23 April 2008, during 2007 two finds were made in the North Celtic Sea Basin off the south coast. Providence Resources Limited identified an oil accumulation at the Hook Head prospect in block 50/11 while Island Oil and Gas Limited encountered gas at the Schull prospect in block 57/2. In addition, Island Oil and Gas Limited successfully appraised its 2006 Old Head gas discovery in block 49/23.
In all three cases further studies are continuing in order to determine whether these accumulations can be progressed to commercial developments. So far during 2008 no additional finds have been made.
No new economic deposits of non-petroleum minerals have been discovered in recent years but there have been some encouraging results.
Exploration adjacent to the existing base metal mine at Navan, County Meath (Boliden Tara Mines Ltd), discovered additional resources with the potential to extend the life of that mine, while diamond drilling in north-east County Limerick by Minco and Xstrata Zinc, near Pallas Green, has encountered high grade intersections of zinc and lead. While these results are encouraging, it is too early to say whether an economic mineral deposit occurs in the area.
197 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent to which non-fossil fuel generated electricity is available to the national grid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21631/08]
The contribution by renewable energy sources to electricity consumption will be in the region of 9.5% for 2007. This copper-fastens a continuing year-on-year increase in electricity consumption from renewable energy sources.
198 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent to which broadband availability here compares with standards, quality and speed available in other EU member states; his plans to improve the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21632/08]
The provision of broadband services is, in the first instance, 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. Details on broadband availability throughout the country are available on www.broadband.gov.ie.
The role of Government is to ensure that the appropriate regulatory regime is in place and to invest directly in certain circumstances, that is, in cases of market failure, for economic and social inclusion reasons and to enhance and support regional competitiveness.
The latest figures from the OECD (December 2007) show that Ireland experienced one of the fastest rates of growth in broadband take-up in the OECD. ComReg's latest report shows that we have a penetration rate per capita of over 20%, which equates to over 44% of Irish households at the end of September 2007. I expect that ComReg data for quarter 1 of 2008 will confirm that over 50% of households had broadband at the end of March this year.
In Ireland there is evidence on the supply side of greater bandwidth being made available at lower prices such as the recent offerings by two companies of 12 Mbps and 15 Mbps at €40 and €45 per month respectively.
The latest OECD report also highlights weaknesses in broadband development across the OECD and identifies policy issues.
Internationally, telecommunications is moving to next generation broadband to deliver greater quality, speed and service to the consumer. This is happening where there is strong competition and incentives to innovate. I will shortly publish for consultation a policy paper that will set a framework for investment by the private sector in next generation broadband. The paper will also set out what I believe is the optimal role for Government in facilitating the roll out of next generation networks.
201 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his or the Government’s plans for the development of the postal service, including the provision of a fast, efficient, reliable, next-day postal delivery service throughout the entire country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21637/08]
I have no statutory function in relation to these matters. Matters relating to post office closures and quality and levels of postal service are a matter in the first instance for the management and Board of An Post.
In addition, the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, is responsible under the European Communities (Postal Services) Regulations 2002 for monitoring quality of service standards in relation to the postal service.
202 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress that has been made in making broadband available along a national primary road (details supplied); and when broadband will be available to the residents in Fairymount, County Roscommon. [21690/08]
The provision of broadband services is, in the first instance, 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. Details of broadband suppliers, prices and locations throughout the country are available on www.broadband.gov.ie.
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 included providing grant-aid under the Group Broadband Scheme and ongoing investment in Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs).
Although broadband is now widely available in Ireland 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 are met. Homes and premises that are more difficult to reach are also being examined and potential solutions are being considered. Consequently, it is expected that all homes and premises in currently unserved areas will be offered a broadband service. It is anticipated that a preferred bidder will be selected and appointed in August 2008.
As regards MANs a Value for Money and Policy Review of Phase I of the MANs Programme is currently being finalised in my Department. I am also finalising a consultation paper on next generation broadband. Both documents will be published shortly and will inform future Government investment in broadband.
