Vol. 661 No. 2
11 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Finance the agencies which he plans to rationalise or close within his Department; the recommendations he has made with respect to others; and the human resources policies he plans to adopt regarding redundancy payments, transfers and so on. [31461/08]
In the Budget for 2008, my predecessor announced an efficiency review that required all Departments to review the scope for savings in a wide range of areas including the scope for the rationalisation of State Agencies. This was taken further last July, when I specifically asked for a further review of all State Agencies to examine whether they can share services, whether it would be appropriate to absorb some of their functions back into their parent Departments or whether some agencies should be amalgamated or abolished.
My Department is examining the bodies under its aegis and it is also working with all other Government Departments on this matter and issues, including the human resources issues mentioned by the Deputy, arising from this are being considered in the context of the Budget.
12 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Finance the flexibility, in view of his discussions with EU Commission at the last ECOFIN, that is allowed to Ireland to breach the 3% borrowing limit in 2009; the period within which he is required to bring borrowing back within limits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31475/08]
15 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the schedule of discussions and negotiations between himself or his Department and the relevant EU authorities with respect to the Stability and Growth Pact and specifically to a possible excessive deficit procedure arising from either the 2009 or 2010 budgets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31333/08]
26 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement on the discussions which took place with other European Finance Ministers in Nice regarding the Stability and Growth Pact; if specific reference was made during these discussions to the prospect of Ireland breaching the 3% deficit limit; and the outcome of these decisions and the expected consequences of Ireland breaching the 3% limit during 2008 or 2009. [31332/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 12, 15 and 26 together.
In their discussion of Member States' response to the current economic slowdown at the recent informal Ecofin meeting and in so far as budgetary policy is concerned, Ministers noted the supportive role of the Stability and Growth Pact, its emphasis on reducing deficits and the importance of compliance with the Pact. The question of a possible breach by Ireland of the 3% of GDP deficit limit was not discussed at the informal Ecofin. I did, however, take the opportunity at the Eurogroup meeting to provide my colleagues with a general update of the position in Ireland. I also had an informal meeting with Commissioner Almunia on the margins of the informal Ecofin, during which I provided him with a general update on the position in Ireland. He confirmed that the Commission would, as is the norm, assess the position after it receives the fiscal notification that Ireland, like all other Member States, will be submitting to Eurostat at the end of September.
As regards measures related to the Stability and Growth Pact, Ireland's stability programme update which will include projections for the general government balance for 2009 to 2011 will be published with the Budget on October 14th. The update is due to be examined by the Economic and Financial Committee of Ecofin (the EFC) in late January 2009. The stability programme is among those on which the Ecofin Council is expected to adopt a Council Opinion at its February 2009 meeting.
As regards the operation of the excessive deficit procedure, the position is that in accordance with Article 104 of the EU Treaty the Commission prepares a report if a Member State exceeds the 3% deficit limit or if the Commission is of the opinion that there is a risk of an excesssive deficit . This procedure, the timing of which is a matter for the Commission authorities, normally leads to a Council recommendation designed to encourage the Member State concerned to take steps to correct the deficit. The Pact provides that where special circumstances exist in the economic and budgetary position this may be taken into account in setting the initial deadline for correction of an excessive deficit.
13 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Finance if he will publish a pre-Budget outlook in advance of Budget 2008 and in advance of the Budget 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31325/08]
Given the short time to Budget day I will not be publishing a Pre-Budget Outlook in advance of this year's Budget. However, my Department published a mid year technical update of current year macro-economic forecasts in July. In this update an economic and fiscal assessment was presented based on the information to hand at end June. On the 3rd of September the Government announced that it was bringing forward Budget 2009 to the 14th of October 2008. Furthermore my Department will hold the usual quarterly press conference for the end-September Exchequer Returns, which will, as normal, set out the emerging trends in the public finances. On Budget Day I will set out my macro-economic and fiscal framework for the next three years. As Budget Day is only a few weeks away the necessity for the Pre-Budget Outlook is no longer there this year.
14 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Finance his latest assessment of the end of year figure for the numbers out of work, the shortfall in tax revenue, the Exchequer deficits and the rate of increase in the Consumer Price Index; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31457/08]
In early July my Department published a technical economic update which set out forecasts for 2008, based on the latest information available at that time. On this basis, unemployment was expected to average 5.8% or in numbers terms some 132,000 during 2008. This compares to unemployment of 4.5% or 101,000 in 2007.
My Department last published inflation forecasts on July 2nd as part of the Technical Update of Current Year Macroeconomic Forecast. This set out its expectation that CPI inflation would average 4.3 per cent for 2008. Since then the ECB announced a quarter percentage point increase in interest rates. Factoring this in would imply a CPI inflation rate of 4.5 per cent for 2008 as a whole. Updated inflation forecasts for the period out to 2011 will be published as part of Budget 2009.
At the end of this month, as is usual, my Department will make its six monthly return to Eurostat setting out the overall fiscal position, including the General Government Balance for the years up to 2007 and my Department's forecast for 2008. This forecast will take account of the latest fiscal information available at that time.
In announcing the bringing forward of Budget 2009, I stated that my Department's latest assessment indicated a tax shortfall significantly in excess of that previously expected for 2008. September is a key month for tax revenue and while we do not have full month data yet, early indications suggest that the poor performance in tax receipts witnessed over the summer months is continuing. My Department is closely monitoring overall tax performance in the run-up to the Budget.
My Department will publish an updated view on expected tax and Exchequer positions at the end of this quarter. A comprehensive assessment of the fiscal and economic position will be contained in the Budget which will be published on 14 October 2008. As is normal, I will not comment on the contents of the Budget in advance of that date.
16 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance his views on the recent comments (details supplied) with respect to staffing levels in the public service. [31348/08]
Staffing levels in the public service are subject to regular scrutiny at official level and are set in the context of the demands on public services and the resources available to fund them. It is the Government's aim to use staff resources as efficiently and effectively as possible and I know that this objective is shared by all my Government colleagues.
17 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Finance the changes in work practices which he sought to negotiate as part of the National Social Partnership talks. [31463/08]
Towards 2016 is a ten year framework agreement which sets out an agenda for the further modernisation of the public service. It commits the parties to the Agreement to continued co-operation with change and modernisation initiatives, as well as improved productivity across the public service.
In approaching the recent Partnership talks the Government recognised that while significant progress has been made in advancing the modernisation agenda, many more changes are both awaited and needed. In particular, there must be a more customer-focussed approach to the delivery of public services, with an increased focus on service delivery over internal reforms and a shift in emphasis from organisational inputs to outputs and outcomes for the citizen. I want the modernisation process to deliver results that are clear, useful and verifiable to the user and puts the public at the centre of our public services.
The parties to the agreement support the development of a more customer-focussed approach to the delivery of public services and acknowledge that there are challenges that must be addressed if the public service is to meet the needs and expectations of our citizens. The agreement recognises that the public service must review continuously its systems, processes and procedures, to ensure that it is responsive and efficient and that it provides high quality, value for money services. There will be a need for changes in skill mix; in how services are delivered; when and where they are delivered; and by whom they are delivered. Therefore, in accordance with the provisions of Towards 2016, the parties acknowledge the requirement for developing the range of service delivery options, for utilising shared services in areas such as HR, ICT and financial management and for developing cross-organisational solutions as a way of addressing problems of service delivery on a ‘whole of Government' basis.
In approaching the talks the Government was also mindful of the recommendations of the OECD Review of the Public Service, Towards an Integrated Public Service, which concluded that we are on a sound trajectory of modernisation but could further improve the yield from reforms by renewing focus on their pace and sequencing in order to make them more mutually reinforcing. The Government has established a Task Force to develop a new Action Plan for the public service of the 21st Century in the light of the recent comprehensive Review by the OECD. Its report is expected shortly.
While the detailed implementation of the Action Plan will require discussions with all relevant interests, the parties to the agreement commit themselves to implementation of the basic principles emerging from the OECD report. In particular, they accept the need identified by the OECD to give more emphasis to the public service as an integrated system with a greater focus on meeting the needs of citizens. This will require that people within the different elements of the public service system work in a more consistent, co-ordinated, networked way across the traditional sectoral and organisational boundaries. It also means that Departments, Offices, and Agencies will have to interact with each other in new ways to ensure integrated action in policy-making, delivery and implementation.
18 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he is satisfied with the level of deposit protection for savers in Irish financial institutions. [31447/08]
60 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Finance his views on introducing, with immediate effect, legislation to increase protection of cash deposit holders from its low level of 90% on the first €22,222 per depositor per financial institution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31320/08]
87 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will support a matter (details supplied). [31660/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 18, 60 and 87 together.
As I announced on 20 September 2008, the Government has decided to increase the statutory limit for the Deposit Guarantee Scheme for banks and building societies from €20,000 to €100,000 per depositor per institution. The cover will apply to 100% of each individual's aggregate deposits up to the prescribed limit per banking institution. This guarantee level will also apply to credit union savers. Branches of foreign institutions authorised in the European Economic Area (EEA) and operating in Ireland are entitled to benefit from the enhanced guarantee. My Department is currently preparing legislation to give statutory effect to this increase from the date of my announcement. The level of protection available for deposits in Irish financial institutions is now amongst the highest in the European Union.
The Government remains confident in the strength and resilience of the Irish financial system and is committed to maintaining its ongoing stability. Notwithstanding this, I believe that now is an appropriate time to underline this commitment by enhancing the level of protection available to depositors so as to ensure all deposits in Irish financial institutions are safe.
The increased protection now available to Irish depositors is without prejudice to possible enhancements to the EU Deposit Guarantee Directive. A review of the Directive was mandated by the ECOFIN Council meeting in October 2007 and Ireland is actively participating in this review. Consideration is being given to the level of savings guarantee as well as wider policy areas such as improving the speed of payouts, depositor information and cross-border interoperability. Any further changes required in the Irish Deposit Guarantee Scheme will be implemented to ensure that savers in Ireland benefit from safeguards in line with EU best practice.
19 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance if he is satisfied with the banking regulatory framework and all rules that govern it particularly with regard to the trading of derivatives and futures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31099/08]
Ireland's system of financial regulation is based largely on a comprehensive and detailed EU template and conforms to international best-practice standards. The role of the Minister for Finance as regards financial regulation is to develop policy and bring forward proposals to the Oireachtas for the regulation of the financial services sector. Once that legislation has been enacted, the task of implementing and applying it on a day-to-day basis rests with the Financial Regulator, which is independent of the Minister in the exercise of its statutory functions.
Ireland operates a regulatory framework for banks based on the Capital Requirements Directive (CRD), a framework which is applied commonly across Europe. In addition, the Financial Regulator in Ireland has imposed additional requirements on banks, requirements which have proven prudent in the light of recent events.
I welcome the fact that, as events have unfolded in the financial sector over recent months, the EU has taken the initiative to review elements of its regulatory framework including in relation to the prudential framework for banks set out in the CRD. Ireland has taken a full part in the debate at EU level and as events unfold we will continue to do so. We will be to the forefront in the implementation of any appropriate changes to the regulatory framework.
The Deputy refers in particular to derivatives and futures. In its 2007 Strategic Plan, the Financial Regulator identified the need to build up resources and capacity in the supervision of securities markets as an important area of work.
The Deputy should note that in transposing the Market in Financial Instruments Directive into Irish law in 2007, unlike some countries, we took up the option available in the Directive of imposing reporting requirements on derivative transactions based on shares. It is fair to say that events have shown this to have been a prudent choice on our part. It provides an important flow of information to the Financial Regulator on what is happening in the market.
I welcome, in particular, the fact that on the 18th September 2008, the Financial Regulator moved quickly to ban the short selling of bank shares in the wake of a similar SEC decision in the U.S. I understand that the Financial Regulator's rule covers positions taken via derivatives as well as the direct short selling of those shares. The rule sets out that any transactions or arrangements designed to benefit from a fall in the price of those shares, however engineered, is banned by the rule. Thus any use of derivative instruments is covered.
Accordingly, Ireland's general view and approach is that transactions involving share-based derivatives should be treated, in so far as practical, in the same way as transactions directly in those shares. We will continue to refine and develop the regulatory framework to ensure this is the case.
20 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance if he or his Department has examined legislative measures in place in other States to end the tax exile status with a view to introducing such measures in this State. [31310/08]
A person is regarded as resident in the State for tax purposes in a tax year if he or she spends: (a) 183 days in the State in that year, or (b) 280 days in aggregate in that tax year and the preceding tax year.
An individual who is present in the State for 30 days or less in a tax year will not be treated as resident for that year unless he or she elects to be resident. Also, a day will only count if the individual is present in the State at the end of the day.
However, even if an Irish domiciled person establishes non-residence he or she remains liable to Irish tax on income arising in Ireland (e.g. income from directorships, a trade or profession, rented properties etc.). The only income which escapes Irish tax for individuals in this category is income arising elsewhere in the world outside Ireland.
As regards capital gains, Irish domiciled non-resident individuals remain liable to Irish capital gains tax on disposals of land, buildings or shares deriving their value from these assets and certain other assets such as minerals in the State or other assets related to exploitation of such minerals. They are not liable to Irish capital gains tax on assets outside this category e.g. shares or equities in companies not deriving their value primarily from land, buildings etc.
The tax residency rules were last updated in the 1994 Finance Act. These rules are similar to the rules that apply in many other developed countries and they are constantly kept under review.
21 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Finance his view on the proposal that, as part of an anti-inflationary package, user fees and charges for public services should be frozen or reduced in 2009 in order to lessen the cost of living pressures on those with low and average incomes. [31314/08]
I assume the Deputy is referring to the perception that government charges are significantly increasing the rate of inflation. In this regard, I would draw the Deputy's attention to the fact that the pickup in inflation in recent years has been driven primarily by external developments, namely the global rise in oil and food prices and increases in interest rates.
Government administered charges, excluding independent regulators, account for around one twentieth of the total weighting of the basket of goods and services which make up the Consumer Price Index. As such, the contribution of increases in these charges to total inflation is small.
Notwithstanding this fact, I would like to reassure the Deputy that the Government is committed to achieving a moderate rate of inflation. In light of this, when developing public policy — be it at Budget time or during the year — due consideration is given to any potential inflationary impacts.
I would also point out that inflation is expected to ease next year as some of the factors that impacted on inflation earlier this year wane. Inflation forecasts out to 2011 will be provided on Budget Day.
22 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Finance his estimate of the cost on the Public Services pay bill in 2009, 2010 and 2011 of the agreement reached in the National Partnership talks. [31465/08]
Based on current staffing and numbers, it is estimated that the cumulative costs of implementing the pay increases provided for in the draft Agreement will be approximately €260m in 2009, €990m in 2010 and €1,200m in 2011.
23 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Finance if he is satisfied with the progress being made to find a satisfactory system for deposit protection in credit unions. [31484/08]
The Deputy will be aware that on 20 September 2008 the Government increased the statutory limit for the deposit guarantee scheme for banks and building societies from €20,000 to €100,000 per depositor and extended the scheme to include credit union savers. It is intended that in the case of credit union savers the deposit protection scheme will act as a backstop to an approved savings protection scheme.
The Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU) has since 1989, operated a savings protection scheme (SPS) for credit unions which has, to date, operated by providing financial support to credit unions that get into difficulty. It has never been necessary to make savings protection payments to individual credit union members. Under the SPS regime no credit union has become insolvent and no member of a credit union has experienced any loss of shares or deposits. The Registrar of Credit Unions in the Financial Regulator is working closely with ILCU to approve a reform to SPS. It is expected that these discussions will conclude shortly.
The Government is committed to the stability of our whole financial system and the enhanced deposit protection scheme will provide additional reassurance to savers that their savings are safe.
24 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance the steps which have been taken and those which remain to be taken, in terms of the implementation of the recommendations of Goodbody’s Economic Consultants review of area-based tax incentive schemes of February 2006 and of the Indecon International Economic Consultants Review of Property based Tax Incentive Schemes of February 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31339/08]
In his 2005 Budget Statement, my predecessor announced that a review of a broad range of tax incentive schemes would be undertaken in 2005. The review process included studies by external consultants Indecon and Goodbody Economic Consultants, as well as internal reviews by officials from the Department of Finance and the Office of the Revenue Commissioners, with the involvement of other Government Departments as appropriate. In the Budget 2006 documentation, summaries of the recommendations of the various reviews were published, and the full reviews were published by my Department in three volumes on the 6th of February 2006. The general findings and recommendations arising from the review of tax schemes were taken into account and will continue to be taken into account where appropriate in the context of the ongoing formulation of tax policy.
In Budget 2006, in line with the recommendations of the consultants my predecessor announced the termination, subject to certain transitional provisions, of the following reliefs; the urban renewal, town renewal and rural renewal schemes, reliefs for holiday cottages, student accommodation, multi-storey car parks, third-level educational buildings, sports injuries clinics, developments associated with park and ride facilities, the general rental refurbishment scheme and the special accelerated reliefs for hotels and holiday camps.
In line with the recommendations of the consultants, the tax reliefs available for private hospitals, registered nursing homes and child care facilities were retained. In addition, in Finance Act 2006 the clawback period for investors was increased from 7 to 15 years for these 3 reliefs. In the case of all new schemes introduced since the completion of the reviews in 2005 and for private hospitals that are first used on or after 1 February 2007 provision was made in the relevant legislation to provide for the full disclosure of key information to the Exchequer by investors promoters to enable the full cost and impact of the schemes to be monitored.
In Budget 2006 the introduction of a limit, with effect from 1 January 2007, on the use of tax reliefs, including certain exemptions, by high-income individuals was announced. Section 17 of Finance Act 2006 gave effect to this announcement. This measure was designed to address the situation where a small number of individuals with high incomes had been able to reduce their income tax liability to a very low level or to zero by means of the cumulative use of various tax incentive reliefs. Such individuals are no longer able to do so. This provision ensures that such individuals who use tax incentive schemes will have an effective rate of income tax for each year of not less than about 20 per cent on the income sheltered by such schemes.
The reviews also proposed that any new reliefs should be time limited and should, where relevant, be subject to an assessment of costs and benefits prior to their introduction. I will continue to follow this advice as far as appropriate.
The role that time-limited tax relief schemes can play in supporting public policy objectives is routinely assessed as part of the ongoing process of tax policy formulation.
25 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Finance if he plans amendments in the legislation established to provide for an annual investment in the National Pension Reserve Fund. [31474/08]
54 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance his views on investing money from the pension reserve fund in public infrastructure projects, rather than in less stable international stocks and shares. [31312/08]
64 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Finance the losses incurred by the National Pension Reserve Fund during 2007 and to date in 2008; if he will propose adjustments to the NPRF’s investment guidelines; if he will adjust the Exchequer contribution to the NPRF for each of 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31347/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 25, 54 and 64 together.
The National Pensions Reserve Fund (NPRF) was established in 2001 under the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act 2000. The purpose in establishing the NPRF was to meet as much as possible of the cost to the Exchequer of social welfare pensions and public service pensions to be paid from the year 2025 until at least 2055. The Act requires the Government to make a contribution of 1% of GNP to the NPRF each year.
The Act also provided for the establishment of the National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission to control and manage the Fund. The Commission has discretionary authority to determine the Fund's investment strategy in accordance with the Fund's statutory investment policy of securing the optimal total financial return provided the level of risk to the moneys held or invested is acceptable to the Commission. The Commission's investment strategy is based on the expectation that equities or real assets will outperform financial assets over the long term despite swings over short term periods.
The National Pensions Reserve Fund earned an investment return of 3.3% in 2007 bringing its annualised return from its inception in April 2001 to end 2007 to 6.0%. It showed a return of -12.0% for the first six months of 2008, reducing its annualised return since inception to 3.8%.
I am aware and I accept that the appropriate investment strategy for a long-term fund can lead to short-term volatility, particularly in difficult market conditions such as we have experienced over the last year. Indeed the Fund previously experienced a negative return of -16.1% in the bear market of 2002 before recovering strongly over the following five years. In its 2007 Annual Report, the Commission states that, in seeking to meet the Fund's objective, it has adopted an investment strategy primarily focused on building up a diversified portfolio of equities and other real assets. Such an asset allocation offers the prospect of superior long-term return but can expose the Fund to high levels of short-term volatility. However, one of the critical factors underlying the Commission's investment strategy is the Fund's long-term investment horizon. With no drawdowns before 2025, it can afford to accept periods of volatility as a trade-off for achieving a long-term return that will make a meaningful contribution to Ireland's future pension costs and the sustainability of the pension system.
As regards the statutory contribution, Deputies will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me, in the run-up to Budget Day on 14 October, to discuss or speculate on any of the Government's expenditure provisions for the coming year.
27 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Finance if he will adhere to the Maastricht criteria on Exchequer deficits for each of the years 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31335/08]
At the end of this month, as is usual, my Department will make its 6 monthly return to Eurostat setting out the overall fiscal position, including the General Government Balance for the years up to 2007 and my Department's latest forecast for 2008. A comprehensive assessment of the fiscal and economic position will be contained in the Budget which will be presented to the Dáil on 14th October 2008. As part of this assessment the General Government Balance for the period 2009-2011 will be set out on the basis of the latest information available. As is normal I will not comment on the contents of the Budget in advance of that date.
28 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance the additional revenue that would be collected by the Exchequer if all discretionary tax relief schemes were made available at the standard rate. [31313/08]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the deductions and reliefs which are allowable for tax at an individual's marginal rate of income tax and for which estimates of cost can be provided are set out below together with estimated costs for the year 2005, the most recent year for which the necessary detailed information is available except where otherwise stated. If relief for these deductions and reliefs was confined to the standard rate of income tax the saving to the Exchequer could be of the order of €1,000 million. This estimate does not take into account any possible behavioural change on the part of taxpayers as a consequence of such a change or the economic effect of such a change. This applies in particular to the BES, Film Relief and Capital Allowances regime. The standard rating of employee pension reliefs would also have an impact on workers' take home pay.
|
Tax Relief Provision |
2005 Cost |
|
€m |
|
|
Person Taking Care of Incapacitated Taxpayer |
1.6 |
|
Health Expenses |
134.0 |
|
Contributions Under Permanent Health Benefit Schemes, after Deduction of Tax on Benefits Received |
2.8 |
|
Employees’ Contributions To Approved Superannuation Schemes* |
430.0 (2006) |
|
Retirement Annuity Premiums |
357.7 |
|
Personal Retirement Savings Accounts |
42.2 |
|
Interest paid relating to borrowings for purposes such as acquiring an interest in a company or partnership or to pay death duties |
22.2 |
|
Expenses Allowable to Employees under Schedule E |
65.0 |
|
Donations to Approved Bodies |
34.0 |
|
Donations to Sports Bodies |
0.2 |
|
Retirement Relief for certain Sports Persons |
0.2 |
|
Revenue Job Assist allowance |
0.4 |
|
Allowance for seafarers |
0.4 |
|
Investment in Corporate Trades (BES) |
16.1 |
|
Investment in Seed Capital |
1.3 |
|
Stock Relief |
2.0 |
|
Relief for expenditure on significant buildings and gardens |
3.3 |
|
Donation of Heritage items |
5.8 |
|
Capital Allowances (Income Tax only) |
734.5 |
|
Rented Residential Relief — Section 23 |
239.7 |
|
Investment in Films |
15.7 |
|
Total |
2,109.1 |
*Estimate of cost revised for 2006 as part of the work on the Green Paper on Pensions
29 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Finance the measures he has taken in conjunction with the Governor of the Central Bank and the Financial Regulator to satisfy himself as to the liquidity, solvency and robustness of the Irish banking, credit unions and financial services sectors; and the crisis management plan and procedures that are in place for these sectors. [31445/08]
56 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Finance if he has had discussions with the banks or the Central Bank and the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority regarding the robustness of the Irish financial sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31456/08]
63 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Finance his views on the solvency of Irish banks and the general stability of the Irish banking system; his views on whether the Irish banks are over-exposed to risky lending for speculative land purchases; if he will provide details of any domestic finance guarantee or liquidity extension package aimed at Irish banks which is under consideration or negotiation in his Department or in conjunction with Irish banks or banking organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31321/08]
70 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether any Irish bank is too big to fail; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31338/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 29, 56, 63 and 70 together.
Maintenance of the overall stability of the Irish financial system is a central priority of Government. Since August 2007 the international financial system has been affected by unprecedented turmoil and dislocation. Credit markets which are pivotal to meeting the medium-term funding needs of the financial system have effectively closed since August 2007. Inter-bank lending rates for shorter maturities have increased very significantly increasing the cost of finance to financial institutions. Difficulties created by impairments of sub-prime securities have adversely impacted on the European and particularly US financial systems as demonstrated by recent developments in the US. This has led to major uncertainty for the global financial system.
The prompt actions by international central banks, including the European Central Bank, to provide major injections of liquidity have contributed to greater stability in financial markets internationally, though they continue to remain subject to significant uncertainties. Agreement on the extensive and far-reaching plans announced recently by the US authorities should help to stabilise financial markets and rebuild confidence in the international financial system.
Ireland as a small, highly open economy with a significant financial sector closely integrated in the international financial system cannot be immune from these developments. The Government has, therefore, been very active in supporting public confidence in the safety of deposits and the stability of the financial system overall. I welcome the Deputy's support for my announcement on 20 September last that the Government had decided to increase the statutory limit for the deposit guarantee scheme for banks and building societies from €20,000 to €100,000 per depositor per institution and that the cover will apply to 100% of each individual's deposit up to the €100,000 limit. This guarantee level, which will also apply to credit union savers, is now among the highest in the EU. The Government is committed to the stability of our financial system, so that money placed with an Irish credit institution would not be at risk. The Irish Government wants to protect the whole financial system and secure its stability.
It is of course a responsibility of the Board and management of a financial institution to ensure that it lends prudently. The Financial Regulator's licensing and supervision standards require banks to have in place appropriate policies relating to the management and control of lending. Irish banks have virtually no exposure to sub-prime securities. There are no proposals before Government for a guarantee or liquidity extension package. As far as meetings with the banks, the Central Bank and the Financial Regulator are concerned, such meetings are a normal part of my role as Minister for Finance given my responsibilities for the financial sector.
30 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide a commitment that any proposal to introduce a carbon tax in Budget 2009 will include measures to ensure that the burden does not fall disproportionately on those on lower incomes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31328/08]
34 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Finance the contact he has had with the Commission on Taxation regarding the introduction of a carbon tax; if he expects the appropriate legislation to be introduced in 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31477/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 30 and 34 together.
I have stated previously that the carbon tax issue is being examined by the Commission on Taxation and the Commission is due to report by September 2009 at the latest.
With regard to Budget 2009, as the Deputies will be aware it is not the usual practice for the Minister for Finance to speculate in advance of the annual Budget on what it will contain and I do not propose to deviate from this practice now.
31 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Finance if he foresees any threat to the Irish corporation tax regime; and his plans to mitigate the possible effects. [31479/08]
I want to assure the House that the Government's position on our corporate tax regime is unambiguous. It is clearly stated in the Programme for Government that the 12½ per cent rate of corporation tax will remain.
Although the Deputy does not specify what threats to the Irish corporate tax regime he has in mind, he may be referring to the European Commission's technical work on a common consolidated corporate tax base (CCCTB).
It is important to note that there has been no political decision taken on the CCCTB at the level of the Council of Ministers and the Commission has not brought forward a proposal to Council. The Commission is currently undertaking an economic impact assessment of a CCCTB and I presume that no proposal would be brought forward until that assessment has been considered.
The Irish position on the CCCTB is well known and I will continue to highlight the difficulties I believe such a proposal could cause for individual Member States and overall EU competitiveness.
32 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance the specific measures in view of the publication of the document “The Public Finances in EMU — 2007” that have been taken to improve the overall quality of budgetary procedures, particularly in relation to performance budgeting, the use of budgetary reserves, the use of prudent economic assumptions and budget transparency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31349/08]
Budget documentation is published each year and updates on the Exchequer finances are published monthly by my Department. The economic assumptions which underpin the Budget are based on the best information available at Budget time. The Budget book also contains a comparison of the Department's main macro-economic forecasts with those of other key institutions.
As regards performance budgeting, Ireland has made significant progress in this area over recent years with a view to moving beyond the traditional narrow focus on financial inputs, in favour of accountability for what is being achieved and delivered with public moneys. In this regard, the introduction of Annual Output Statements in 2007 represents a major step forward. The Output Statements set out the key public service targets that are to be delivered over the year ahead, and they are considered by the relevant Dáil Select Committee as part of their consideration of the annual Estimate allocations. From this year, the Output Statements also include an account of progress in achieving the output targets for the previous year. The comprehensive Value-for-Money (VFM) framework that has been put in place over recent years, including evaluations of programmes of expenditure under the Value for Money and Policy Review initiative and the establishment of a dedicated Central Expenditure Evaluation Unit in the Department of Finance to promote best practice in this area, also reflects the Government's commitment to ensuring that performance and delivery are integral to Ireland's budgeting and accountability infrastructure.
In its recent review of the Irish public service, Towards an Integrated Public Service, the OECD commented favourably on Ireland's progress to date in developing and implementing a performance-focused agenda, and it put forward a number of recommendations for further improvement. These recommendations are currently being considered.
33 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance if, due to his proposed 3% cut in public sector payroll, reductions are proposed in his private office or constituency office, or those of the junior Ministers in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31352/08]
The 3% payroll bill reduction in my Department, in respect of which work is already being undertaken, will apply across the whole Department, which may include my private and constituency offices. I am informed by the Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works that there are no plans at present to reduce the staff which is already below the permissible level.
36 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance if he is committed to expenditure on the decentralisation programme in view of the economic situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31329/08]
61 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Finance the projects under the decentralisation scheme which have been put on hold; and the terms of reference of the assessment being undertaken. [31451/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 36 and 61 together.
The Government decided on 8th July last that no further expenditure on the acquisition of accommodation for decentralisation should be sanctioned pending detailed consideration by the Government of two reports: one from the Decentralisation Implementation Group's report on the feasibility of phased moves by the State Agencies; and one from the Implementation Group of Secretaries General on the governmental and cross-Departmental issues arising from the need to provide facilities for Minister, Ministers of State and officials while in Dublin on business.
I expect to present these reports for consideration by the Government over the coming weeks.
37 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Finance if he will index the income tax bands to inflation in Budget 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31345/08]
It is a long-standing practice of the Minister for Finance not to comment in advance of the Budget on any tax or expenditure matters that might be the subject of Budget decisions. I do not propose to depart from that practice.
38 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance if he will introduce proposals to tackle fuel poverty in Budget 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31326/08]
The question of improving existing measures or considering new measures to address fuel poverty is a matter for consideration in the context of the forthcoming Budget.
39 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance his views on introducing legislation, as exists in other EU States, obliging tax lawyers to register tax avoidance schemes being marketed in order that new loopholes can be speedily closed. [31311/08]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that arrangements for identifying and tackling aggressive tax avoidance schemes differ across States. A common thread running through many of these arrangements is the need for tax authorities to know, as early as possible, the details of schemes that may need to be challenged (under existing anti-avoidance legislation) or closed down by legislation. Consideration was given as to how best to address this information need in the context of the 2006 Finance Act, having regard to approaches in other jurisdictions. It was considered that a voluntary reporting approach, coupled with a built-in incentive to disclose, best suited our particular requirements and would avoid many of the problems associated with obligatory regimes. On that basis, Finance Act 2006 introduced the "protective notification" regime, which was further strengthened in Finance Act 2008.
The primary purpose of the protective notification regime is to encourage taxpayers and their advisers to be open with Revenue in relation to transactions that may be tax avoidance transactions within the meaning of the general anti-avoidance provision (section 811 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997). Under the regime taxpayers who do not make a protective notification face, among other things, a 20% surcharge on the amount of tax that they sought to avoid where the Appeal Commissioners and ultimately the Courts uphold a Revenue challenge that a transaction is a tax avoidance transaction. By way of a positive incentive for the taxpayer to make a protective notification, the time period within which the Revenue Commissioners must challenge a transaction under section 811, which was previously open-ended, is limited, where a full protective notification is made, to a period of two years from the date of the notification.
The enhanced protective notification regime is already having an impact with 55 new protective notifications received by the Revenue Commissioners since the enactment of this year's Finance Act. While many of these notifications relate to the same avoidance schemes it is apparent that taxpayers and their advisers are taking the provisions of the protective notification scheme seriously and availing of the opportunity to disclose their tax planning arrangements to the Revenue Commissioners. The operation of the protective notification scheme will, however, be kept under review, taking account also of the experiences of other jurisdictions with obligatory disclosure schemes.
40 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Finance if, in regard to his proposed 3% cut in public sector payroll, this refers to a 3% cut compared to nominal 2008 payroll, nominal 2008 payroll plus increments or forecast 2009 payroll on the basis of existing levels of service; if his proposed 3% cut in payroll is predicated on a commitment to maintain existing levels of service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31351/08]
On 8 July last, I announced a number of cost saving measures that the Government had decided to implement with immediate effect. These measures included a 3% reduction in the payroll bill of all Departments, State Agencies and Local Authorities, with the exception of certain sectors of the Health and Education areas. The savings resulting from this measure were projected to be €10 million in 2008 with a further €250 million accruing by the end of 2009. The 3% payroll reduction for 2009 is calculated on the basis of the 2008 nominal payroll, less the €10 million saving referred to, as increased by the full year cost in 2009 of the 1 September 2008 pay increase made under Towards2016.
41 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Finance his views on the introduction of a debt ceiling which would limit the national debt to a certain proportion of national income; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31331/08]
Under the terms of the EU Stability and Growth Pact (SGP) Ireland already adheres to a debt ceiling. In line with the provisions of the SGP, all EU Member States agree to respect a general government debt ratio of 60% of GDP. The general government debt is the standard measurement of gross debt used for comparative purposes within the Union.
42 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance if he will proceed with the development of mass public transport systems for Dublin as proposed in the national development plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31327/08]
Capital investment under the NDP is considered each year in the context of the Budget. This year will be no different in regard to that process. The delivery of transport investment within the overall envelope is a matter, in the first instance, for my colleague the Minister for Transport.
43 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Finance if he will introduce a public sector recruitment freeze; if he will give a commitment that this will not result in any deterioration of front-line services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31330/08]
On 8 July last, I announced a number of cost saving measures that the Government had decided to implement with immediate effect. These measures included a 3% reduction in the payroll bill of all Departments, State Agencies and Local Authorities, with the exception of certain sectors of the Health and Education areas. To meet this requirement, a range of measures were outlined to all Departments. These included curtailing or suspending staff recruitment with immediate effect, the control of premium pay, the management of vacancies, the organisation of work processes and the level at which work is done. The measures announced in July are designed to minimise the effects on users of public services to the greatest extent possible, including by identifying efficiencies in the way such services are delivered. The Government's priority is to manage the current situation sensibly in order to ensure that we create the right environment to return to sustainable economic growth as soon as possible. Any further proposals for the control of public sector pay or numbers will be considered in the context of the Budget.
44 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for Finance the capital projects referred for reconsideration under his decision of July 2008; the number which have been postponed; and the number given the go ahead. [31454/08]
In response to the deteriorating position of the public finances, the Government decided on 8 July 2008 to introduce a range of cost-saving measures in 2008 and 2009 including some capital savings. As I indicated to the Dáil in July 2008, the capital savings in 2008 and 2009 are comprised of the elements set out in the table below:
|
€ million |
Description |
|
|
2008 |
||
|
Arts Sport and Tourism |
4 |
Deferral of some tourism and cultural projects |
|
Environment, Heritage and Local Government |
40 |
Defer Gateways Innovation Fund (GIF) |
|
Finance Group – OPW |
75 |
Mainly decentralisation |
|
Transport |
20 |
Savings across a range of capital projects |
|
2009 |
||
|
Environment, Heritage and Local Government |
100 |
Defer Gateways Innovation Fund (GIF) |
|
Finance Group – OPW |
105 |
Mainly decentralisation |
|
Various Vote Groups |
105 |
Various capital projects deferred |
Other issues relating to capital investment under the NDP are now being considered in the context of the Budget.
45 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Finance if his Department has examined whether there are essential everyday items subject to 21% VAT that should be more correctly subjected to 13.5% VAT. [31315/08]
The VAT rating of goods and services is subject to the requirements of EU VAT law with which Irish VAT law must comply. Under VAT law Member States must apply a standard rate of VAT and may opt to also apply one or two reduced rates of VAT to certain goods and services listed in Annex III of the EU VAT Directive. In addition, where a Member State applied a zero rate or reduced rate to specific goods or services on 1 January 1991, they may retain that system, although no new items may be added. Ireland basically operates three rates of VAT; a zero rate, a standard rate of 21%, and a reduced rate of 13.5%. I should point out that the standard VAT rate, as its title indicates, is meant to be the normal VAT rate to be applied to goods and services. Variations from the standard rate are meant to be exceptions. Compared to other Member States Ireland, as outlined below, has widely used such exceptions to apply a zero rate or reduced rate of VAT to a wide range of goods and services.
The majority of foods in Ireland are currently charged at the zero rate of VAT, as are children's clothes and shoes, books and oral medicines, as these items were zero-rated on 1 January 1991. Under normal EU rules such goods would be chargeable at the reduced rate of 13.5%, with the exception of children's clothes and shoes, which would be chargeable at 21%. In relation to the reduced rate, in Ireland, fuel used for heat or light are chargeable to VAT at the reduced VAT rate of 13.5%, being only one of eight EU Member States to do so. The provision of residential housing is also chargeable at this rate. In recent years children's car safety seats were added to the list of reduce-rated goods. In terms of services, many labour intensive services are subject to the reduced rate of VAT. These include general repair and maintenance services e.g. car repairs, repair of electrical appliances and services consisting of the care of the human body e.g. hairdressing. In addition, the reduced rate applies to waste acceptance and disposal services and veterinary services and agricultural services. In this regard, it should be noted that in Ireland, zero and reduced rated goods and services amount to 46% of all goods and services liable to VAT, which is high relative to most other Member States.
46 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Finance if he will borrow to fund current expenditure during 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31319/08]
As the Deputy knows, Budget 2009 will be presented to the Dáil on Tuesday, 14 October. Decisions in relation to Budget 2009 are currently being formulated for consideration by Government in advance of Budget day. It is not clear as to the overall level of government borrowing that may be required at this stage. This depends on a number of variables. Beyond that, as the Deputy knows, it is not the usual practice to speculate in advance of the annual Budget on what it will contain and I do not propose to deviate from this practice now.
47 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Finance the number of value for money reviews which have been completed and published from the current round of reviews; the number whose publication are running behind schedule; the number yet to commence; and if he will provide a tabular statement of the progress in the programme. [31470/08]
In June 2006 the Government approved 92 formal Value for Money and Policy Reviews to be carried out for the period 2006-2008. This programme of reviews focuses on significant areas of expenditure and major policy issues. To date 43 reviews have been completed. 27 within the current round are overdue for completion. As of end-June 2008, eight reviews had yet to commence and one is not proceeding with the agreement of the Value for Money and Policy Review Central Steering Committee. The table below sets out the position as reported for the end quarter monitoring exercise carried out by my Department at end-June 2008, which has been updated to show reviews completed in the interim. Details of reviews by the Department including those completed and the original scheduled completion dates of remaining reviews are set out in the table.
Responsibility for carrying out each of the reviews, publishing them and submitting them to the Houses of the Oireachtas and the relevant Dáil Select Committees rests with the individual Departments and Offices and details in respect of any individual review should be sought from the relevant Minister. In respect of the reviews under my own Department and the Offices for which I have responsibility the following is the position:
|
Review |
Status |
|
Economic and Social Research Institute |
Completed July 2006 |
|
Information Society Fund |
Completed August 2006 |
|
Ordnance Survey Ireland |
Completed April 2007 |
|
Civil Service Childcare Initiative |
Expected completion date October 2008 |
|
Construction Procurement Reform Initiative |
Expected Completion date end 2008 |
|
Procurement Management within the Department |
Scheduled for completion by end 2008 |
|
Review |
Status |
|
Revenue’s Data Capture Outsourcing Programme |
Completed October 2006 |
|
Information Technology Consultancy Expenditure |
Completed March 2008 |
|
Review |
Status |
|
Provision of Flood Relief Schemes |
Expected completion date by end 2008 |
|
Property Management |
Scheduled for completion end 2008 |
|
Department or Office |
Number |
Title of review |
Original Scheduled completion date |
|
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
1 |
Installation Aid |
End-September 2006 |
|
2 |
Farm Waste Management |
Completed |
|
|
3 |
Laboratory Facilities (plant health, crops, Research & Development grants) |
Completed |
|
|
4 |
Aquaculture programme |
Completed |
|
|
5 |
Dairy Hygiene |
Completed |
|
|
6 |
FIRM (Food Research & Development Grants) |
Completed |
|
|
7 |
Bovine TB Scheme |
End-December 2007 |
|
|
8 |
Meat Hygiene – Temporary Veterinary Inspectors |
End-December 2007 |
|
|
9 |
Cattle Movement Monitoring Systems/Animal Identification |
End-December 2008 |
|
|
10 |
Fallen Animals Scheme |
End-December 2008 |
|
|
11 |
Forestry NDP Capital Scheme |
End-December 2008 |
|
|
12 |
Marketing and Processing Scheme |
End-December 2008 |
|
|
13 |
BIM (non-decommissioning/non-aquaculture) Marine support Programme |
End-December 2008 (not commenced as of 30/6/08) |
|
|
Arts, Sport & Tourism |
14 |
Swimming pools programme |
End-September 2006 |
|
15 |
Irish Sports Council |
End-September 2006 |
|
|
16 |
Irish Film Board |
End-September 2006 |
|
|
17 |
Arts & Cultural Capital Enhancement Scheme (ACCESS) |
End-December 2006 |
|
|
18 |
Review of the Arts Council |
End-December 2007 (not commenced as of 30/6/08) |
|
|
19 |
The Horse & Greyhound Fund |
End-December 2008 (not commenced as of 30/6/08) |
|
|
Communications, Energy & Natural Resources |
20 |
Energy (Conservation and Alternative) |
Completed |
|
21 |
Broadband Infrastructure (MANs) |
Completed |
|
|
22 |
The Group Broadband Scheme |
Completed |
|
Department or Office |
Number |
Title of review |
Original Scheduled completion date |
|
Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs |
23 |
Scéimeanna Feabhsúcháin sa Gaeltacht |
Completed |
|
24 |
Capital expenditure on the off-shore islands, 2000-2004 |
Completed |
|
|
25 |
Ciste na Gaeilge |
End-September 2006 |
|
|
26 |
Drugs Initiative |
Completed |
|
|
27 |
Local Development Social Inclusion Programmes |
End-December 2007 |
|
|
28 |
Area Based Rural Development Initiative and LEADER + — Not proceeding with agreement of CSC (Replaced by)Review of CLÁR & RAPID leveraged Funding Schemes |
End-December 2008 |
|
|
Defence |
29 |
Maintenance of Aircraft |
Completed |
|
30 |
Defence Forces clothing programme |
Completed |
|
|
31 |
Review of Naval Service Vessel Maintenance (originally 2008 review, move agreed by CSC) |
End-December 2007 |
|
|
32 |
Review of Usage of Military Training Land (originally 2007 review, move agreed by CSC) |
End-December 2008 |
|
|
Education & Science |
33 |
Supply Panel for Primary Teaching |
Completed |
|
34 |
Youth Encounter Projects |
Completed |
|
|
35 |
1st & 2nd Level Building Programmes: Topic 2 (Devolved initiatives) |
Completed |
|
|
36 |
Schools Information Communication Technology programmes |
End-September 2006 |
|
|
37 |
Information Communication Technology undergraduate skills programmes |
Completed |
|
|
38 |
Teacher Education & Development |
Completed |
|
|
39 |
Youthreach/Traveller Education |
Completed |
|
|
40 |
Insurance arrangements for schools |
End-December 2007 |
|
|
41 |
Summer Works Scheme (Primary and Post-Primary School Buildings) (originally 2008 review, move agreed by CSC) |
End-December 2007 |
|
|
42 |
Special Needs Assistants |
End-December 2008 |
|
|
43 |
Grants to 1st and 2nd Level Schools |
End-December 2008 (not commenced as of 30/6/08) |
|
|
44 |
Expenditure on the education of persons who do not have English or Irish as a first language. (originally 2007 review, move agreed by CSC) |
End-December 2008(not commenced as of 30/6/08) |
|
Department or Office |
Number |
Title of review |
Original Scheduled completion date |
|
Enterprise, Trade & Employment |
45 |
Science and Technology Spending |
Completed |
|
46 |
Science Foundation Ireland |
Completed |
|
|
47 |
Fás Competency Development Programme |
End-December 2007 |
|
|
Environment Heritage & Local Government |
48 |
Preliminary Review of the Rental Accommodation Scheme |
End-December 2006 |
|
49 |
Rural Water Programme |
Completed |
|
|
50 |
Ex-post review of the ERDF element of the Water Services Infrastructure Provision of the Economic and Social Infrastructure OP. |
End-December 2008 (not commenced as of 30/6/08) |
|
|
51 |
Rental Accommodation Scheme — follow-up on preliminary review |
End-December 2008 (not commenced as of 30/6/08) |
|
|
Finance |
52 |
Information Society |
Completed |
|
53 |
Economic and Social Research Institute |
Completed |
|
|
54 |
Ordinance Survey Ireland |
Completed |
|
|
55 |
Civil Service Childcare Initiative |
End-December 2007 |
|
|
56 |
Construction Procurement Reform Initiative |
End-December 2007 |
|
|
57 |
Departmental Procurement |
End-December 2008 |
|
|
Foreign Affairs |
58 |
Support for Irish Immigrant Groups |
Completed |
|
59 |
Evaluation of Development Cooperation Ireland’s Emergency Humanitarian Assistance for a selected disaster (Tsunami) |
Completed |
|
|
60 |
Automated Passport Project |
End-December 2007 |
|
|
61 |
Development Aid to Mozambique |
Completed |
|
|
62 |
The HIV/Aids budget line |
End-December 2008 |
|
|
Health & Children |
63 |
Allocation and utilisation of funds for Acute Hospitals |
End-December 2007 |
|
64 |
Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme |
Completed |
|
|
65 |
Mental Health Services — Review of efficiency and effectiveness of Long Stay Residential Care for Adults |
End-December 2008 |
|
Department or Office |
Number |
Title of review |
Original Scheduled completion date |
|
Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
66 |
Maintenance of Garda premises |
End-September 2006 |
|
67 |
Asylum/immigration |
Completed |
|
|
68 |
Prisons capital projects |
Completed |
|
|
69 |
Staff training and development in the Courts Service |
End-September 2006 |
|
|
70 |
Probation & Welfare service – Assistance to Voluntary Bodies |
Completed |
|
|
71 |
IT infrastructure & systems in the Courts Service |
End-December 2008 |
|
|
Office of Public Works |
72 |
Provision of Flood Relief Schemes |
End-December 2007 |
|
73 |
Property Management |
End-December 2008 |
|
|
Houses of the Oireachtas |
74 |
Parliamentary Information Programme Phase II |
Not proceeding with the agreement of the CSC |
|
75 |
Provision of a Service Level Agreement for Information Communication Technology services to members |
Completed |
|
|
76 |
Printing of a publication programme for the Oireachtas |
End-December 2007 |
|
|
77 |
Debates Office |
End-December 2008(not commenced as of 30/6/08) |
|
|
Revenue |
78 |
Use of outsourced service providers to support returns processing |
Completed |
|
79 |
Information Technology Consultancy Expenditure |
Completed |
|
|
Social & Family Affairs |
80 |
Supplementary Welfare Allowance phase 2 |
Completed |
|
81 |
Unemployment Benefit/Assistance for atypical workers |
Completed |
|
|
82 |
Review of One-Parent Family Payments |
Completed |
|
|
83 |
Review of Social Welfare Payments to Carers |
Completed |
|
|
84 |
Review of the Medical Review and Assessment Service |
Completed |
|
|
85 |
Review of the Disability Allowance Scheme |
End-December 2007 |
|
|
86 |
Review of information services provided to customers |
End-December 2008 |
|
|
Taoiseach |
87 |
National Economic & Social Council/National Economic & Social Forum/National Economic & Social Development Office |
End-September 2006 |
|
Transport |
88 |
Motor Tax On line Initiative |
Completed |
|
89 |
CIE Subvention |
Completed |
|
|
90 |
Capital spend by Dublin Transport Office |
Completed |
|
|
91 |
Non National Roads |
End-December 2007 |
|
|
92 |
Rail safety |
End-December 2008 |
48 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Finance if he is satisfied with the operation of performance related pay. [31487/08]
75 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance his plans to introduce performance related pay schemes into the public service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31022/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 48 and 75 together.
Following a decision by the Government on the implementation of recommendations in Report No. 38 of the Review Body on Higher Remuneration in the Public Sector, schemes of performance-related awards were introduced for the levels of Deputy Secretary and Assistant Secretary in the civil service, the Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner ranks in the Garda Síochána and the ranks of Brigadier General and Major General in the Defence Forces. The schemes of awards are based on performance by reference to demanding targets. The pool for performance awards is 10% of the pay bill for the group concerned. Within that overall limit individuals can receive payments of up to 20% of pay (although payments at that level would be very rare)
I have no role in the decisions on awards. Decisions on awards are made by the Committee for Performance Awards (CPA), which includes a majority of private sector members. The main roles of the Committee are to monitor the application of the scheme of performance-related awards and to bring independent judgement to bear in approving objectives for the persons covered by the scheme and in approving recommendations for awards. Details of the procedures, the numbers covered by the schemes, the range of awards and the total amounts paid in Departments are outlined in the annual reports of the Committee available on the website www.finance.gov.ie. The annual reports provide a commentary on how the schemes have operated each year and the CPA make suggestions about how aspects of the scheme can be improved. The performance related pay schemes are monitored by an independent body – the CPA – and I am satisfied that the CPA is fulfilling its remit in relation to the schemes.
There are separate schemes of performance-related awards for senior staff of local authorities and the health service. The Committee for Performance Awards in the Local Authority sector deals with the assessment of performance for senior managers in local authorities. For senior managers in the health service, the board of the HSE/relevant agency makes awards based on the agreed criteria. The scheme is quality assured by an Oversight Committee which is chaired by the Secretary General of the Department of Health and Children. Schemes of performance-related pay may also apply to the Chief Executive Officers of non-commercial State sponsored bodies (and in some cases, to the second tier of management). The Review Body considered that certain conditions should be in place non-commercial State-sponsored bodies before schemes of performance-related awards were introduced for the CEOs of those bodies. Where these conditions are met, the Board of the body concerned can submit a scheme to the parent Department and, subsequently, my Department for approval. These schemes are also based on the achievement of stretched targets and provide for a maximum bonus of 20% of pay. The guidelines provide that awards of between 15% and 20% should arise only in the most exceptional situations where performance has surpassed all reasonable expectations and has resulted in the achievement of a major goal of the body. Decisions on the level of payment to be awarded are the responsibility of the Board of the body concerned. I have no plans at present to introduce schemes of performance-related awards for other public service staff.
49 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Finance the basis on which he plans to forecast the tax receipts in the last quarter of 2008 for which he will have no hard evidence by the date of Budget 2009. [31460/08]
In formulating the Budget every year it is necessary for my Department to make an estimate on the expected outturn for the current year in advance of the receipt of all revenues for that year. As the Budget is traditionally held on the first Wednesday in December, it is normally only tax receipts for the month of December that must be estimated. Obviously this year it will be necessary to make an estimate of the outturn that covers a longer period of time than is the norm. My Department, in consultation with the Revenue Commissioners, will make this assessment taking into consideration the emerging trends in receipts over the course of the first nine months of the year, as well as any relevant accordant economic data, such as retail sales figures, employment figures, motor sales figures etc. Based on the latest information available at that time, an end-year outturn will be forecast. However, what I will not do today is speculate further on this in advance of having all of the relevant data fully analysed.
50 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance the elements of the Office of Public Works property portfolio for which disposal is under active consideration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31342/08]
The Office of Public Works is not actively considering the disposal of any property at this time.
51 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the number of staff, or whole-time equivalents, in the civil and public service for each year since 2000, including the latest figure for 2008, broken down by Department; the annual increase or decrease in the number of civil and public servants or whole time equivalents for each year since 2000, including a forecast for 2008, broken down by Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31353/08]
The tables below set out the information sought by the Deputy for the Civil Service, the Public Service and the Local Authorities, to the extent it is currently available. The end-December figures for both 2007 and 2008 set out in Table A below reflect the projected position as at Budget day in December 2007. Table B sets out the split by Government Department/Office for the Civil Servant numbers up for December each year from 2000 to 2007 and for end-June 2008.
|
Public Service Numbers (by area) 2000-2008 (at 31 December each year) |
||||||||||
|
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007(2) |
2008(2) |
2008 increase over 2000 |
|
|
Health |
81,513 |
92,996 |
95,679 |
95,800 |
98,723 |
101,978 |
106,273 |
112,500 |
113,140 |
38.8% |
|
Education |
67,845 |
73,295 |
75,720 |
76,989 |
79,881 |
83,435 |
89,263 |
92,480 |
93,940 |
38.5% |
|
Justice |
12,228 |
12,460 |
12,642 |
12,773 |
13,373 |
13,392 |
14,109 |
14,874 |
15,414 |
26.1% |
|
Defence |
12,211 |
11,808 |
11,650 |
11,559 |
11,455 |
11,320 |
11,330 |
11,328 |
11,324 |
-7.3% |
|
Civil Service |
34,068 |
36,092 |
37,796 |
37,276 |
36,867 |
36,533 |
37,156 |
38,572 |
38,972 |
14.4% |
|
NCSSBs |
10,388 |
11,086 |
11,612 |
11,367 |
11,095 |
11,404 |
11,700 |
12,175 |
12,726 |
22.5% |
|
Local Authorities(1) |
29,090 |
32,062 |
34,175 |
33,845 |
33,394 |
34,067 |
34,681 |
34,926 |
35,526 |
22.1% |
|
Public Service |
247,343 |
269,799 |
279,274 |
279,609 |
284,788 |
292,129 |
304,512 |
316,855 |
321,042 |
29.8% |
|
Year-on-year percentage increase |
||||||||||
|
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
||
|
% |
% |
% |
% |
% |
% |
% |
% |
% |
||
|
Health |
11.9 |
14.1 |
2.9 |
0.1 |
3.1 |
3.3 |
4.2 |
5.9 |
0.6 |
|
|
Education |
2.9 |
8.0 |
3.3 |
1.7 |
3.8 |
4.4 |
7.0 |
3.6 |
1.6 |
|
|
Justice |
0.3 |
1.9 |
1.5 |
0.4 |
4.7 |
0.1 |
5.4 |
5.4 |
3.6 |
|
|
Defence |
-1.0 |
-3.3 |
-1.3 |
-0.8 |
-0.9 |
-1.2 |
0.1 |
0.0 |
0.0 |
|
|
Civil Service |
4.1 |
5.9 |
4.7 |
-1.4 |
-1.1 |
-0.9 |
2.6 |
3.8 |
1.0 |
|
|
NCSSBs |
7.9 |
6.7 |
4.7 |
-2.3 |
-2.4 |
2.8 |
1.8 |
0.7 |
1.7 |
|
|
Local Authorities(1) |
6.2 |
10.2 |
6.6 |
-1.0 |
-1.3 |
2.0 |
1.8 |
0.7 |
1.7 |
|
|
Public Service |
6.1 |
9.1 |
3.5 |
0.1 |
1.9 |
2.6 |
4.2 |
4.1 |
1.3 |
(1) Local authority numbers are not included in the paybill.
(2) Projected figures.
|
Department/Office — serving non industrial civil servants |
Dec 2000 |
Dec 2001 |
Dec 2002 |
Dec 2003 |
Dec 2004 |
Dec 2005 |
Dec 2006 |
Dec 2007 |
June 2008 |
|
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
4,174 |
4,452 |
4,449 |
4,419 |
4,540 |
4,442 |
4,181 |
4,274 |
4,274 |
|
Arts, Sport & Tourism |
114 |
109 |
463 |
438 |
416 |
166 |
170 |
178 |
176 |
|
Attorney General |
81 |
97 |
119 |
119 |
123 |
117 |
118 |
132 |
132 |
|
Central Statistics Office |
642 |
654 |
754 |
689 |
682 |
776 |
878 |
792 |
780 |
|
Chief State Solicitor |
200 |
241 |
211 |
225 |
220 |
230 |
234 |
238 |
249 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
173 |
193 |
175 |
153 |
147 |
140 |
145 |
147 |
151 |
|
Commission For Public Service Appointments |
6 |
8 |
8 |
9 |
10 |
||||
|
Communications, Energy & Nat. Resources |
431 |
457 |
718 |
734 |
676 |
658 |
512 |
339 |
308 |
|
Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs |
752 |
858 |
238 |
254 |
244 |
248 |
263 |
269 |
280 |
|
Comptroller & Auditor General |
132 |
117 |
152 |
158 |
160 |
162 |
151 |
160 |
160 |
|
Courts Service |
925 |
1,011 |
1,034 |
1,030 |
1,018 |
1,026 |
1,046 |
1,042 |
1,072 |
|
Defence |
423 |
427 |
423 |
416 |
412 |
393 |
389 |
405 |
419 |
|
Director Of Public Prosecutions |
39 |
61 |
165 |
167 |
171 |
169 |
174 |
193 |
198 |
|
Education & Science |
1,105 |
1,181 |
1,408 |
1,553 |
1,547 |
1,613 |
1,662 |
1,661 |
1,771 |
|
Enterprise, Trade & Employment |
958 |
1,009 |
1,082 |
1,023 |
1,029 |
973 |
966 |
1,036 |
1,059 |
|
Environment, Heritage & Local Government |
860 |
910 |
1,353 |
1,364 |
1,259 |
1,256 |
1,261 |
1,302 |
1,245 |
|
Finance |
572 |
628 |
623 |
601 |
587 |
587 |
622 |
629 |
615 |
|
Foreign Affairs |
1,086 |
1,210 |
1,373 |
1,484 |
1,428 |
1,409 |
1,500 |
1,550 |
1,643 |
|
Health & Children |
484 |
565 |
659 |
649 |
623 |
636 |
622 |
590 |
526 |
|
Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
2,873 |
3,198 |
3,905 |
3,786 |
3,694 |
3,731 |
3,943 |
4,511 |
5,403 |
|
National Gallery |
17 |
17 |
27 |
32 |
31 |
25 |
33 |
55 |
58 |
|
Department/Office — serving non industrial civil servants |
Dec 2000 |
Dec 2001 |
Dec 2002 |
Dec 2003 |
Dec 2004 |
Dec 2005 |
Dec 2006 |
Dec 2007 |
June 2008 |
|
Office Of Public Works |
563 |
556 |
574 |
572 |
653 |
654 |
674 |
698 |
735 |
|
Oireachtas |
274 |
314 |
321 |
322 |
341 |
366 |
383 |
402 |
426 |
|
Ombudsman |
62 |
68 |
77 |
75 |
75 |
76 |
76 |
85 |
91 |
|
Ordnance Survey |
274 |
314 |
|||||||
|
Presidents Establishment |
17 |
20 |
21 |
25 |
22 |
23 |
23 |
20 |
24 |
|
Prisons |
3,201 |
3,221 |
3,442 |
3,353 |
3,310 |
3,268 |
3,334 |
3,501 |
3,595 |
|
Revenue Commissioners |
6,175 |
6,451 |
6,428 |
6,342 |
6,389 |
6,362 |
6,553 |
6,572 |
6,557 |
|
Social & Family Affairs |
4,221 |
4,444 |
4,417 |
4,306 |
4,286 |
4,281 |
4,323 |
4,344 |
4,498 |
|
State Laboratory |
76 |
86 |
89 |
93 |
90 |
91 |
94 |
91 |
94 |
|
Taoiseach |
186 |
208 |
219 |
220 |
216 |
213 |
215 |
220 |
225 |
|
Transport |
627 |
656 |
516 |
517 |
509 |
505 |
694 |
450 |
564 |
|
Valuation Office |
127 |
131 |
130 |
129 |
148 |
150 |
148 |
156 |
171 |
|
Total |
31,835 |
33,857 |
35,561 |
35,247 |
35,050 |
34,751 |
35,394 |
36,050 |
37,507 |
52 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance his views on reports that property developers are engaging in trade in and interest-free loan schemes to entice buyers to buy houses; the tax implications for purchasers in these instances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31336/08]
74 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance his views on reports that property developers are offering interest-free loans to encourage property purchasers who cannot raise large deposits; if he has been briefed by the Financial Regulator as to whether such schemes meet their approval; his views on whether this is a positive development for the Irish property market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31317/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 52 and 74 together.
As Minister for Finance, my role as regards financial regulation is to develop policy and bring forward proposals to the Oireachtas for the supervision of the financial services sector, including that based on EU financial services law. Once that legislation has been enacted, the task of implementing and applying regulatory requirements on a day-to-day basis rests with the Financial Regulator, which is independent of me in the exercise of its statutory functions. The Deputy will be aware that the Financial Regulator has a statutory mandate to safeguard the interests of consumers of financial services.
I am aware of the reports referred to in the Deputies' questions relating to offers of interest-free loans to potential house purchasers. There are, however, many variations to these types of schemes and in the absence of precise details of their terms and conditions, it is not possible to make an assessment of possible regulatory and, indeed, taxation implications. My Department, has, however, asked the Consumer Director in the Financial Regulator to review current practices of seller financing of deposits for housing sales and I will advise the Deputies of the outcome of this assessment. In relation to taxation implications of any particular scheme, full details should be sent to the Revenue Commissioners, to enable them to form a view on the matter.
53 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance his views on the re-scheduling of the tendering process for the metro north project. [31337/08]
The tendering process for Metro North is the sole responsibility of the Railway Procurement Agency, which comes under the aegis of my colleague the Minister for Transport. The Railway Procurement Agency was established for this very purpose. I have no role at this stage of the project's proceedings, but of course it will fall to the Government to make a final decision in due course.
55 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Finance the progress that has been made in the decentralisation of the Public Appointments Service and the Valuation Office to Youghal; further to Parliamentary Question No. 205 of 17 June 2008, if the contract for the sale of a site by Cork County Council to the Office of Public Works has been finalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31306/08]
69 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 70 of 3 July 2008, the number of staff assigned for decentralisation to Youghal who are awaiting a move under the Public Appointments Services and Valuation Office respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31307/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 55 and 69 together.
I understand that the Commissioners of Public Works had agreed terms with Cork County Council, to purchase a site in Youghal, comprising 3 acres approximately, to accommodate new decentralised offices for the Public Appointment Commission and the Valuation Office. A number of title and other issues arose in relation to the Contract for Sale and these were in the process of being resolved by Solicitors for both parties prior to completion of the Contract.
However, the Government decided on 8 July last that further expenditure on the acquisition of accommodation for decentralisation would be paused pending the review by Government of reports from the Decentralisation Implementation Group ( DIG) and the Implementation Group of Secretaries General. Until the outcome of the review is available, no further expenditure on the acquisition of decentralisation sites will be undertaken by the Commissioners of Public Works, except in cases where a legally binding contract exists.
Under the decentralisation programme both the Public Appointments Service and the Valuation Office are required to transfer one hundred (100) posts each to Youghal. I understand that there are currently twelve (12) staff in the Public Appointments Service and fifteen (15) staff in the Valuation Office assigned for decentralisation who are awaiting a move to Youghal.
57 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Finance his intentions in relation to funds held by the pension trustees of certain non-commercial State sponsored bodies in view of his letter proposing a full guarantee of pensions by the State and a transfer of funds; the way the transfer will be accounted for in terms of general Government borrowing in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31450/08]
65 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Finance his views on the proposal to absorb the pension fund assets and liabilities of public bodies into the Exchequer accounts; if a full assessment of these assets and potential liabilities has been undertaken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31318/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 57 and 65 together.
Discussions are in train with the trustees/administrators of the funded pension schemes of the five older universities and certain non-commercial semi-State bodies (SSBs), which have funded pension schemes, with a view to providing consistency and clarity for the future in terms of meeting the liabilities of the schemes.
This follows consideration some time ago of the pension difficulties facing those universities by a working group under the Higher Education Authority, which recommended such discussions. The background to this is that all funded schemes must now meet minimum funding standards under EU law unless they are covered by the State. This has presented problems for the universities and non-commercial SSBs with funded pension schemes where the State ultimately carries the liability but where this is not clear enough to warrant exemption under EU law. In that context, and provided all the schemes concerned agree, it is proposed that the assets of those schemes would be transferred to the State along with the liabilities which would then be met, effectively, by the State on a pay as you go basis in the future. The terms and conditions of the schemes would be no better nor worse than the members would be entitled to anyway. If agreement is reached, legislation to give effect to all this would be required.
I am informed that the estimated value of the assets of all of the funds in question at end-2007 was in the region of 2.3 billion euro, but this will have changed in the interim and is subject to market fluctuations. The liabilities in relation to these schemes are the defined benefits to which the members are entitled and for which the State is already, effectively, responsible. Under the proposal, these will be met by the State on a pay as you go basis, in line with the approach taken in relation to public service pensions generally.
As regards the impact on the public finances, under current Eurostat rules, the transfer of the assets would impact positively on the General Government Balance (GGB) when received. This initial revenue would be offset in the future by the payment of pension benefits which would be recorded as Government expenditure at the time of payment. The effect on the GGB when the assets are received is clearly identified as being once off in the National accounts and the underlying GGB is, therefore, still unaffected.
58 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Finance the way his Department, and agencies or other public sector bodies under the aegis of his Department will achieve his proposed 3% cut in payroll; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31350/08]
Last July, I announced a series of cost saving measures that the Government had decided to introduce to help meet current expenditure pressures. These measures included a 3% cut in the public sector payroll bill for 2009.
In my Department, and all other Departments, work is already being undertaken to ensure that the 3% payroll bill reduction is delivered. A range of measures are being considered including curtailing or suspending staff recruitment, the control of premium pay, the management of vacancies, the organisation of work processes and the level at which work is carried out.
The appropriate mix of measures to be used in each Department or in the bodies under their aegis will vary.
59 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Finance if there is a need for voluntary organisations to register for tax purposes; the process that such groups should follow to register; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24944/08]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that voluntary organisations must register for tax if they carry out taxable activities or encounter taxing events. An example would be a voluntary organisation which employs persons under the PAYE/PRSI system or carries on a trade. Such an organisation would have an obligation to register and account for PAYE/PRSI, and VAT, if their turnover exceeds, or is expected to exceed, the appropriate registration limit. In order to register for tax, a voluntary organisation must complete a tax registration form (available on Revenue's website) and forward it to their local District Tax Office.
Some voluntary organisations, such as charities and sports bodies, may be entitled to tax exemptions, subject to certain conditions. The charitable tax exemption is available to bodies which have been established for charitable purposes only, under Section 207 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997. In order to avail of the exemption, the relevant organisation must have a legal structure and a Governing Instrument and it must satisfy Revenue that it has been established for charitable purposes only and that it will apply its income for charitable purposes only.
Full details in relation to the application process for charities (including the application form itself) are contained in information booklet CHY1, Applying for Relief from Tax on the Income and Property of Charities, which is available on the Revenue website or by phoning Lo call 1890 666 333.
A separate tax exemption is provided for sports organisations under Section 235 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997. Under this provision, a tax-exempted sports body can be exempted from certain taxes, provided it applies its income to the sole purpose of promoting an athletic or amateur game or sport. Full details in relation to the application process for sports bodies (including the application form itself) are contained in Leaflet GS1, Relief from Income Tax and Corporation Tax for Certain Sporting Bodies". This is also available on the Revenue website.
62 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the plans he has to increase taxes in view of the contraction in tax revenue, income and other taxes which were cut at a time when the tax receipts were bloated by the taxes related to consumption and construction. [31309/08]
As I have previously indicated, economic growth for this year is now likely to be significantly less than that forecast at Budget time.
At the end of August, taxes were nearly EUR2.8 billion behind target. My Department is closely monitoring overall tax performance in the run-up to the Budget. The weakness in taxes, particularly on VAT, CGT and Stamp Duty receipts, reflect a number of factors namely, the substantial adjustment in the housing market, the ongoing difficulties in the international financial markets and slower domestic economic activity such as weaker retail sales. Ireland is not unique in facing these difficulties and many of our euro area partners are experiencing similar forces acting upon their public finances.
As is normal, I will not comment on the contents of the Budget in advance of that date. Budget 2009 will, however, set out a comprehensive approach to ensuring that Ireland remains on course for sustainable economic and social development over the medium term.
66 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Finance his views on reducing the 21% VAT rate levied on foreign performers; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this acts as a disincentive to foreign artists performing here; the plans he has to tackle this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24568/08]
The VAT treatment of goods and services is governed by EU law with which Irish law must comply. One of the basic tenets of EU VAT law relates to the proper functioning of the internal market. This means that it is not possible to use VAT law to favour artists not resident in this state over artists that are resident in the state. In addition, Article 283 of the EU VAT Directive precludes the granting of a threshold to non-resident taxable persons and consequently it is not possible to apply the Irish VAT exemption threshold to non-resident artists.
There are no plans to change the current VAT treatment of foreign artists who supply services in the State. Introducing an exemption for non-resident performers would immediately create a distortion of competition between resident and non-resident performers. It is likely that the introduction of such an arrangement would not only be challenged by resident performers but also possibly by the European Commission.
It has to be recognised that Ireland provides an exemption from VAT for the promotion and admission to live musical and theatrical performances. This very broad exemption is allowed under Article 132 of the EU VAT Directive. In effect, this means that the promoter realises the full value of admission fee as no VAT is applied to admission fees. In this regard, the current exemption is already very generous in covering a broad range of activities accessible to the wider public.
68 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Finance if there is any public sector redundancy package under consideration by his Department; if such a package is under consideration, the details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31334/08]
Last July, I announced that the Department of Health and Children would be drawing up proposals for a targeted scheme to reduce surplus staff in the HSE. A framework for such proposals has recently been received by my Department and this is now being examined. The extension of such proposals to other areas is also being examined.
71 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance if he proposes to overhaul the framework for self administered pension trusts in order to reduce tax avoidance by some very high earners; his views on a regime in which significant tax-free pension entitlements can be drawn down from as early an age as 50; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31316/08]
I take it that the Deputy is referring to small self-administered pension schemes. I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that such schemes are a particular type of occupational pension scheme in respect of which special Revenue Commissioners' requirements already apply as regards their approval for tax relief purposes, operation and supervision. The reason for the extra rules is to ensure that such schemes are established in a bona fide manner to provide retirement benefits and not for tax avoidance purposes. As regards their possible use in tax avoidance, a concern arises due to the fact that they are typically single member schemes with the member generally being a proprietary director. There is potential for a conflict of interest as the individual involved is normally the owner of the business, a trustee of the scheme and the scheme member. I have been informed by the Revenue Commissioners, that in light of this, they require all such schemes to appoint an experienced professional trustee, known as a "pensioner trustee" to act in a watchdog capacity and to ensure the scheme complies with the Revenue Commissioners' approval requirements. In addition, I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that there are restrictions on the investment options available to such schemes.
Most occupational pension scheme rules, small self-administered or otherwise, provide for the event of early retirement. The Revenue Commissioners permit scheme rules which allow individuals to retire and commence benefits at anytime after the individual's 50th birthday. Early retirement may be either voluntary, enforced or due to ill health. The option to retire early will be subject to the terms and conditions of the scheme. It typically requires the consent of the employer or the scheme trustee. If early retirement is chosen, benefit restrictions apply. In addition, the Revenue Commissioners require an individual to cease service to commence benefits — he or she must cease to be an employee of the relevant employer. In the case of a 20% director, all links with the business must be severed, including the disposal of his or her shareholding in the company. Apart from an entitlement to take a tax-free lump sum which varies, depending on the circumstances of the individual scheme member, from one and a half times final remuneration to 25% of the value of the fund subject to an upper limit, all pension benefits are subject to taxation. This applies whether they are taken as pensions, annuities or distributions from approved retirement funds.
The Deputy is aware that my predecessor addressed the issue of excessive tax relieved pension benefits being built up in pension schemes in the 2006 Budget and Finance Act. This followed recommendations made in the Review of Tax Relief for Pension Provision carried out jointly by my Department and the Revenue Commissioners in 2005. Concerns in that regard had centred around the view that tax relief for pensions was skewed towards highly paid executives and those who own companies, on the basis that such individuals appear to have the capacity to have significant pension contributions made on their behalf by their employers into pension vehicles such as small self-administered pension schemes. As a result of the review, a number of significant changes were made to the pensions tax code. These included closing off excessive tax relieved funding for pensions through the imposition of a maximum allowable pension fund on retirement for tax purposes of €5 million, with punitive tax on amounts drawn down in pension benefits in excess of that sum; imposing a cumulative limit of 25% of this amount — €1.25 million — on the maximum tax-free lump sum that can be taken on retirement; and restricting the capacity of individuals to use Approved Retirement Funds as purely long-term tax-exempt vehicles by introducing the concept of an annual "notional distribution" from such funds which is taxable at the fund owner's marginal tax rate.
72 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Finance if he will commit to ring-fencing proceeds from the sale of the Central Mental Hospital site in Dundrum for tackling past under-funding of mental healthcare here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31324/08]
The development of mental health projects is a matter for the Minister for Health and Children. It is a matter for the Minister for Health and Children to consider proposals for capital expenditure in mental health care and other areas for decision in the context of the annual Estimates.
73 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which he has had discussions with his EU counterparts with a view to addressing the ongoing banking issues with particular reference to restoration of confidence and the identification and elimination of practices expected to create or cause instability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31536/08]
EU Finance Ministers have adopted an extensive roadmap of actions incorporating a work programme aimed at putting in place a comprehensive response to developments in financial markets. This programme includes reviewing along with the EU's international partners how to further improve transparency of complex financial instruments, valuation standards, the prudential framework, risk management and supervision and market functioning including the role of ratings agencies. Ireland is participating fully in this work at EU level to ensure there is an effective EU-wide system to maintain financial stability, taking into account the important cross-border linkages that now exist in EU financial markets.
76 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance his Department’s estimates for the standard unemployment rate and live register in each of 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30972/08]
In view of the changing global economic environment and the slowing domestic construction sector, the prospects for employment have weakened during 2008. Based on the latest information available at the end of June, my Department published a mid-year technical economic update. At that stage, unemployment was forecast to average 5.8% for the year as a whole. Since then, later data has been published and the standardised unemployment rate for August was 6.1%. My Department is updating its economic and fiscal forecasts for the upcoming budget on October 14. Labour market forecasts, including forecasts of those unemployed for 2009 and 2010 will be reviewed in this context. My Department will publish its three-year macroeconomic prospects at that stage.
77 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps she will take to combat the ongoing possibility of the relocation of manufacturing and service jobs to low cost economies having particular regard to recent experiences in both sectors; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31777/08]
Decisions to relocate companies or elements of their supply chain are a reality of the modern globalised economic environment. Companies adjust their plant location and utilisation strategies to address matters such as accessing new markets, moving production nearer to customers, meeting firm or market specific customer relationship issues and accessing technology in addition to business takeovers and consolidations. Such decisions inevitably result in flows of investment and employment across borders. In the main, Ireland successfully manages this process through its policies on enterprise and foreign direct investment. These policies, such as competitive tax rates, investment in skills, education and research and development and investing in critical physical and communications infrastructure, have positioned us to win many prestigious and high value added investments and enabled us to replace lost jobs with others of equal or higher value in the economy.
Ireland is no longer a low cost economy. Therefore, we must seek to develop economic competencies higher up the value chain. In that regard, we continue to work to maintain and enhance our framework competitive conditions and promote new areas of competitive advantage. The level of foreign direct investment in Ireland, relative to the size of the economy, remains one of the highest in the world. While competition from emerging markets for FDI has intensified, Ireland continues to punch above its weight when it comes to attracting overseas investment. The pipeline of new business for which IDA Ireland is competing is strong. Already this year 28 new IDA investments have been announced with the potential to create 2,100 jobs over the coming years, demonstrating that we remain a location of choice for mobile investment.
Irish companies also benefit substantially from globalisation as new markets and business opportunities open up. While off-shoring can contribute to job losses for firms in some sectors, productivity gains achieved through off-shoring some activities represents an opportunity to develop higher-end manufacturing and related activities domestically. The model of manufacturing in developed countries is changing and Irish enterprises are adapting to those changes and engaging in higher value added activities in order to compete in the global marketplace. This has been achieved as a result of increased productivity, technology levels and the sophisticated skills of Irish employees.
To sustain and grow the manufacturing sector, Irish based manufacturing enterprises will have to continue the progression to high value added sectors and activities and continue to increase productivity through investments in human capital, technology and innovation. Innovation and the productivity gains that flow from it are the new foundations for competitiveness. The recently launched report of the high level manufacturing group contains some 26 recommendations directed at key areas of innovation and productivity leading to transformational change, reskilling and management development which will ensure Irish manufacturers can continue to compete successfully on international markets and provide high value sustainable employment.
We continue to be one of the world's leading service exporting countries and are currently ranked the 10th highest exporter of services in the world. Earlier this month, I launched the report of the Services Strategy Group, Catching the Wave: A Services Strategy for Ireland. This report sets out new policy proposals on how we can ensure the continued development and growth of Ireland's services sector and outlines how to maximise the future returns to the country from services activities in all enterprises, both current and potential. The implementation of these recommendations will enable Irish service companies to exploit new and exciting opportunities, such as e-learning, business and financial services and professional and consultancy services. The Government is fully committed to strengthening the competitiveness and productive capacity of the economy. Our priority remains the creation of high quality, sustainable employment, driven by companies with higher profitability, that are technologically advanced and prove a better fit with the competitive characteristics of our economy.
78 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the CE scheme is struggling to recruit staff; and if she will change the qualifying criteria for participation in CE schemes to ensure that those wishing to avail of them may do so when a significant number of vacancies exist and qualifying periods take into consideration time spent out of the workforce as a qualified adult or otherwise. [31850/08]
Community employment is an active labour market programme designed to give eligible long-term unemployed people and other disadvantaged people, including those with a disability, an opportunity to engage in useful work within their communities on a fixed-term basis. The qualifying criteria for participation are intended to facilitate the movement of participants through community employment, allowing new participants who may not otherwise have such an opportunity to avail of the programme. Qualified adult dependents of people in receipt of a disability-linked social welfare payment are ineligible for community employment under the eligibility criteria. However, a person in receipt of widow's contributory pension is eligible to participate if he or she has been in receipt of the payment for 12 months or more.
79 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32114/08]
Under the decentralisation programme, my Department is due to decentralise 250 posts to Carlow. Since 30 July 2007, 100 posts have been decentralised to an advance office in the town. For the period between 3 July and 22 September 2008, I can confirm that no moneys have been expended, no properties have been purchased and no staff have been decentralised by my Department under the decentralisation programme. The five agencies under the aegis of my Department that are due to decentralise under the decentralisation programme are Enterprise Ireland, which is moving to Shannon; the Health and Safety Authority, which is moving to Thomastown; the National Standards Authority of Ireland, which is moving to Arklow, FÁS, which is moving to Birr; and the National Consumer Agency, which is moving to Cork.
All the staff of the Irish Auditing and Accounting Supervisory Authority have been based in the authority's offices in Naas since January 2006. Therefore, the authority is fully decentralised. In advance of decentralising to Thomastown, the HSA has established an interim office in Kilkenny city. It has confirmed that two staff decentralised to the interim office between 3 July and 22 September 2008. Some 27 HSA staff are located there. The HSA also confirmed that, under the decentralisation programme, no moneys have been expended and no properties have been purchased for the period in question. The other four agencies — Enterprise Ireland, the National Standards Authority of Ireland, FÁS and the National Consumer Agency — have confirmed that, under the decentralisation programme, no moneys have been expended, no properties have been purchased and no staff have been decentralised by them, for the period from 3 July to 22 September 2008.
80 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the proposal to close a club (details supplied) in County Tipperary; her views on whether the services provided by this organisation are vital to the community of the town; if she will intervene to stop this closure going ahead; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31639/08]
When FÁS completed its annual review of the jobs club programme in early 2008, I understand that it raised concerns about the capacity of Carrick-on-Suir jobs club to meet the agreed targets. Representatives of the club were advised by FÁS that funding would be discontinued if no progress was made towards achieving the targets. FÁS has since indicated that there is insufficient evidence of progress in meeting the targets. It has asked the directors of the jobs club and other interested parties to convene meetings with community interests in Carrick-on-Suir to determine what alternative programmes would attract potential participants and address the needs of unemployed people in Carrick-on-Suir. FÁS expects to be able to discuss such proposals with the board of the jobs club before the end of September. FÁS is supporting a wide range of other programmes such as a local employment service, community employment projects and contracted training in Carrick-on-Suir, to the value of over €1 million. It is committed to funding and supporting agreed programmes in Carrick-on-Suir.
81 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the proposals her Department has to attract companies to set up in north Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31741/08]
The Industrial Development agencies continue to promote North Tipperary for investment and job creation. The strategy that has been adopted involves a transition to the knowledge economy aimed at winning new foreign direct investment in innovation driven, high value and high skill sectors. On the indigenous front, the focus is on the creation of new high potential start up companies. One of the key elements for success is having quality business facilities available. Shannon Development and IDA Ireland continue to work on the provision of suitable property solutions for potential investors. The development of Tipperary Technology Park is an integral part of IDA Ireland's international marketing programme. Shannon Development also has Business Parks in Roscrea and Nenagh and sites are being developed in Templemore and Archerstown, Thurles. The Thurles Marketing Group is continuing with its marketing initiative which is part of the County's Economic and Cultural Strategy up to 2012. The focus of the marketing initiative is to promote Thurles as a location for business investment, not only for foreign direct investment, but also for indigenous investment. I am confident that the strategies and policies being pursued by the Industrial Development agencies in conjunction with local interests will continue to be successful in attracting investment and jobs to North Tipperary. The agencies will, of course, continue to work with their existing clients in this regard as well.
82 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs that have been lost and created in north Tipperary since January 2008; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31758/08]
Employment and unemployment are measured by the Quarterly National Household Survey and published by the Central Statistics Office. As it is devised on a regional basis, it does not provide a breakdown for specific areas such as north Tipperary. The most recent Quarterly National Household Survey, for Quarter 2 of 2008, March to May, indicates that employment in the mid-west region, which includes north Tipperary, has decreased by 500 and unemployment has increased by 1,400 people since Quarter 1, December 2007 to February 2008. The Live Register provides monthly data for specific areas including north Tipperary, but it is not designed to measure unemployment. It includes part-time, seasonal and casual workers entitled to unemployment benefit. The number of people signing on the Live Register in north Tipperary increased by 1,294 for the first eight months of 2008. This trend is in keeping with what is happening in other regions/areas in the country.
83 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of work permits sought and issued on a monthly basis in each of the past five years to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31766/08]
The following table sets out the number of permits sought and issued on a monthly basis during each of the past five years:
|
Year |
Month |
New Permits |
Renewals |
Group |
Issued |
Refused |
|
2008 |
6,822 |
4,342 |
0 |
11,164 |
1,846 |
|
|
Jan |
1,076 |
1,096 |
0 |
2,172 |
245 |
|
|
Feb |
785 |
821 |
0 |
1,606 |
197 |
|
|
Mar |
618 |
504 |
0 |
1,122 |
188 |
|
|
Apr |
763 |
444 |
0 |
1,207 |
207 |
|
|
May |
705 |
385 |
0 |
1090 |
223 |
|
|
Jun |
764 |
324 |
0 |
1,088 |
232 |
|
|
Jul |
964 |
269 |
0 |
1,233 |
204 |
|
|
Aug |
702 |
296 |
0 |
998 |
189 |
|
|
Sep |
445 |
203 |
0 |
648 |
161 |
|
|
2007 |
10,090 |
13,407 |
13 |
23,510 |
2,128 |
|
|
Jan |
995 |
1,207 |
13 |
2,215 |
217 |
|
|
Feb |
284 |
332 |
0 |
616 |
68 |
|
|
Mar |
578 |
616 |
0 |
1,194 |
91 |
|
|
Apr |
603 |
513 |
0 |
1,116 |
79 |
|
|
May |
822 |
860 |
0 |
1,682 |
93 |
|
|
Jun |
896 |
1,163 |
0 |
2,059 |
138 |
|
|
Jul |
1,365 |
2,323 |
0 |
3,688 |
291 |
|
|
Aug |
1,151 |
1,833 |
0 |
2,984 |
240 |
|
|
Sep |
931 |
1,411 |
0 |
2,342 |
255 |
|
|
Oct |
842 |
1,018 |
0 |
1,860 |
216 |
|
|
Nov |
932 |
1,457 |
0 |
2,389 |
278 |
|
|
Dec |
691 |
674 |
0 |
1,365 |
162 |
|
|
2006 |
7,296 |
16,568 |
956 |
24,820 |
1,122 |
|
|
Jan |
520 |
853 |
55 |
1,428 |
72 |
|
|
Feb |
580 |
956 |
44 |
1580 |
64 |
|
|
Mar |
590 |
1,840 |
70 |
2,500 |
79 |
|
|
Apr |
475 |
816 |
88 |
1,379 |
85 |
|
|
May |
694 |
1861 |
94 |
2649 |
105 |
|
|
Jun |
695 |
2007 |
138 |
2,840 |
132 |
|
|
Jul |
799 |
1,954 |
85 |
2,838 |
125 |
|
|
Aug |
671 |
1,045 |
85 |
1,801 |
73 |
|
|
Sep |
649 |
1,799 |
68 |
2,516 |
132 |
|
|
Oct |
607 |
1,105 |
121 |
1,833 |
129 |
|
|
Nov |
643 |
1,757 |
73 |
2,473 |
76 |
|
|
Dec |
373 |
575 |
35 |
983 |
50 |
|
|
2005 |
7,618 |
19,505 |
815 |
27,938 |
1,332 |
|
|
Jan |
690 |
1,539 |
52 |
2,281 |
285 |
|
|
Feb |
607 |
1,248 |
39 |
1,894 |
125 |
|
|
Mar |
621 |
1793 |
52 |
2,466 |
98 |
|
|
Apr |
677 |
2,725 |
78 |
3,480 |
105 |
|
|
May |
523 |
1,257 |
73 |
1,853 |
92 |
|
|
Jun |
671 |
1,615 |
122 |
2,408 |
58 |
|
|
Jul |
666 |
1,484 |
57 |
2,207 |
80 |
|
|
Aug |
743 |
1,480 |
90 |
2313 |
119 |
|
|
Sep |
643 |
1,604 |
88 |
2,335 |
97 |
|
|
Oct |
642 |
1,763 |
97 |
2,502 |
82 |
|
|
Nov |
772 |
2,388 |
49 |
3,209 |
138 |
|
|
Dec |
363 |
609 |
18 |
990 |
53 |
|
|
2004 |
10,408 |
23,327 |
801 |
34,536 |
1,385 |
|
|
Jan |
1,312 |
1,417 |
50 |
2,779 |
39 |
|
|
Feb |
1,368 |
1,693 |
69 |
3,130 |
155 |
|
|
Mar |
1,730 |
2,651 |
74 |
4,455 |
117 |
|
|
Apr |
806 |
1,864 |
87 |
2,757 |
131 |
|
|
May |
514 |
1,575 |
78 |
2,167 |
176 |
|
|
Jun |
734 |
1,686 |
87 |
2,507 |
55 |
|
|
Jul |
735 |
1,810 |
72 |
2,617 |
145 |
|
|
Aug |
569 |
2,008 |
83 |
2,660 |
151 |
|
|
Sep |
535 |
1,688 |
66 |
2,289 |
79 |
|
|
Oct |
715 |
2,935 |
77 |
3,727 |
109 |
|
|
Nov |
792 |
2,662 |
44 |
3,498 |
111 |
|
|
Dec |
598 |
1,338 |
14 |
1,950 |
117 |
84 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when a work permit will issue in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; if the matter will be clarified or rectified; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31767/08]
An application was received in respect of the person in question on the 23 January 2008. This application was refused on the grounds that it is current Government policy to issue new employment permits for highly skilled, highly paid positions or to non-EEA nationals already legally resident in the State on existing valid employment permits. Furthermore the position on offer was one of the occupational categories currently ineligible for an employment permit. The applicant was notified of this decision in writing by letter dated 7 February 2008 and of his or her right to appeal within 21 days. No appeal was received in the Employment Permits Section within this timeframe so the fees in this case were refunded to the applicant. In such circumstances, it is not possible to revisit the application. However, if the person wishes to submit a new application in respect of an eligible occupation, it will be considered on its merits.
85 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the annual revenue that would be raised from a 5% increase in deposit interest retention tax. [31583/08]
The Deputy's question is concerned with an increase of 5% in the tax rates that currently apply to deposit interest. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that, on the basis of an estimated yield of €525 million from DIRT in 2008, the additional yield would be of the order of €130 million, assuming no behavioural change on the part of depositors.
86 Deputy Edward O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance the reason for the delay in commencing a project (details supplied) in County Cork. [31601/08]
A tendering process for the appointment of a Civil Engineering Contractor has been completed and the Office of Public Works expects, subject to available funding, to appoint the successful contractor upon formal Confirmation of the Scheme with construction works to begin shortly afterwards.
88 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Finance if he will assist a community (details supplied) in County Sligo in providing anti-flooding measures to ensure that the regular flooding which causes damage in the parish to community facilities and property is prevented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31673/08]
The National Flood Policy, which was adopted in 2004, requires that flood relief works carried out by the Office of Public Works be concentrated on areas where the likelihood and impact of flooding in terms of personal and economic damage is greatest, with particular emphasis on dwellings at risk. OPW's resources are fully committed to such priority schemes at present. The OPW is not in a position therefore, to contribute to the protection of the community facilities in Geevagh.
89 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if he is satisfied regarding the adequacy of the regulatory system to detect, monitor and address issues that have arisen heretofore in the financial markets or are likely to arise in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31768/08]
In Ireland the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland integrates within a single institutional structure both the supervision of individual financial firms by the Financial Regulator and the monitoring of overall financial stability, which is the independent responsibility of the Governor of the Central Bank. It is important to emphasise that the framework for financial regulation here is shaped by a detailed and comprehensive template which applies across the EU.
EU Finance Ministers have adopted an extensive roadmap of actions incorporating a work programme aimed at putting in place a comprehensive response to developments in financial markets. This roadmap includes reviewing along with the EU's international partners how to further improve transparency of complex financial instruments, valuation standards, the prudential framework, risk management and supervision and market functioning including the role of ratings agencies. Earlier this year ECOFIN Ministers and Central Bank Governors agreed an extended Memorandum of Understanding on financial stability contingency planning between financial supervisors, central banks and finance ministries that incorporates common principles and practical guidelines for cross-border cooperation. This EU framework facilitates timely information exchange and sharing of views and assessments between my Department and the CBFSAI on issues related to financial stability.
90 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if changes are proposed to enhance the monitoring of the economy by the Central Bank or his Department with a view to earlier identification of economic trends and the putting in place of corrective measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31770/08]
My Department continually monitors the emerging economic position and advises accordingly. But the Deputy will note that economic forecasting is not an exact science and this time last year the vast majority of commentators were not expecting the scale of the slowdown we are currently experiencing. In fact the forecasts produced at Budget time last December were seen as being conservative and below the consensus view that pertained at that time. In terms of its monitoring role, in July of this year my Department published revised economic forecasts in order to inform both the public and policy makers regarding the scale of the slowdown.
In terms of corrective measures, in early July the Government decided on a number of measures in order to manage public spending so that emerging pressures could be best accommodated within the planned expenditure level for 2008, while laying the basis for a sensible budgetary strategy for 2009. Furthermore, earlier this month the Government decided to bring forward the Budget for 2009 to October 14th. This reflects the necessary prioritisation of expenditures in light of expected tax revenues and will give clarity and confidence to investors and taxpayers alike and provide a sound basis for economic recovery.
Finally, I would like to remind Deputy that the determination of operational matters in the Central Bank is solely a matter for the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland. However it is fair to say that the Central Bank like other organisations produce regular economic forecasts and commentaries.
91 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which inflation has affected the property market in each of the past ten years; the extent to which this affected VAT and other tax receipts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31771/08]
95 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which he or his Department have planned to address inflation in the property market in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31776/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 91 and 95 together.
House price inflation was well ahead of the general level of inflation in the economy during the period in question. However, the latest data shows that prices fell 9.9 per cent in the twelve months to August 2008 and that they are around 13 per cent below their peak levels.
The Government has in the past implemented measures to bring stability to the housing market, such as the measures my predecessor took in the last Budget regarding stamp duty and mortgage interest relief. I do not propose to say what I may or may not do in my forthcoming Budget. I have set out in Table 1 the level of house price inflation and the average house price in each of the last ten years. The remaining Tables give details of relevant tax receipts over the same period.
|
Year |
Price in December1 |
Property Price Inflation Rate |
|
€ |
% |
|
|
1998 |
121,702 |
29.8 |
|
1999 |
143,490 |
17.9 |
|
2000 |
174,071 |
21.3 |
|
2001 |
181,697 |
4.4 |
|
2002 |
205,898 |
13.3 |
|
2003 |
234,066 |
13.7 |
|
2004 |
254,215 |
8.6 |
|
2005 |
277,852 |
9.3 |
|
2006 |
310,632 |
11.8 |
|
2007 |
287,877 |
-7.3 |
1Source: permanent tsb/ESRI House price index
Tax Receipts
I have been informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the information available relates to value added tax on new housing, stamp duty on residential property and capital gains tax. The figures available for VAT are the estimated yields from new housing and the maintenance and repair to all housing for the years 1998 to 2007, inclusive. The estimated yield is as follows.
|
Year |
New housing |
Housing repair and maintenance |
Total |
|
€m |
€m |
€m |
|
|
1998 |
494 |
217 |
711 |
|
1999 |
641 |
289 |
931 |
|
2000 |
809 |
332 |
1,141 |
|
2001 |
927 |
382 |
1,309 |
|
2002 |
1,100 |
336 |
1,436 |
|
2003 |
1,541 |
332 |
1,873 |
|
2004 |
1,940 |
387 |
2,327 |
|
2005 |
2,405 |
436 |
2,841 |
|
2006 |
2,727 |
520 |
3,247 |
|
2007 |
2,424 |
562 |
2,986 |
The figures given for the VAT raised in 2004 are a revision of figures provided previously. The revision was necessitated by more accurate information becoming available in the interim. In the case of stamp duty, the figures available are of the total collected from residential property. The following table shows these figures for each of the years 1998 to 2007.
|
Year |
€m |
|
1998 |
213 |
|
1999 |
263 |
|
2000 |
282 |
|
2001 |
265 |
|
2002 |
349 |
|
2003 |
528 |
|
2004 |
752 |
|
2005 |
945 |
|
2006 |
1,311 |
|
2007 |
1,018 |
The stamp duty figures shown are estimated for 1998 to 2000, inclusive, because the breakdown in the yield figures for property as between residential and non-residential is approximate only for those years. I am also informed by the Revenue Commissioners that a breakdown of Capital Gains Tax by asset type is not available.
92 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if it is intended to take steps to combat issues contributing to or likely to contribute to financial or economic instability in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31772/08]
The swift actions by international central banks, including the European Central Bank, to provide major injections of liquidity have contributed to greater stability in financial markets internationally, though they continue to remain subject to significant uncertainties. Agreement on the extensive and far-reaching plans announced recently by the US authorities should help to stabilise financial markets and rebuild confidence in the international financial system.
Ireland as a small, highly open economy with a significant financial sector closely integrated in the international financial system cannot be immune from these developments. The Government has, therefore, been very active in supporting public confidence in the safety of deposits and the stability of the financial system overall. The Government has decided to increase the statutory limit for the deposit guarantee scheme for banks and building societies from €20,000 to €100,000 per depositor per institution and that the cover will apply to 100% of each individual's deposit up to the €100,000 limit. This guarantee level, which will also apply to credit union savers, is now among the highest in the EU.
The Government is committed to the stability of our financial system, so that money placed with an Irish credit institution would not be at risk. The Irish Government wants to protect the whole financial system and secure its stability. In terms of measures to promote economic stability, I would highlight the decisive action taken by the Government to underpin confidence throughout the wider economy by bringing forward the Budget. The Government also helped secure a draft National Pay Agreement which will help promote stability, certainty and industrial peace.
93 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the expenditure to date on the decentralisation project; the extent to which buildings which have been acquired, are occupied or unoccupied; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31773/08]
The total amount of expenditure to date under the Decentralisation Programme is approximately €244m. This includes the cost of site/property acquisitions, fit-out works and rent paid to date. All completed decentralised buildings acquired to date have been occupied by the Departments/Agencies concerned.
94 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent of the expected outturn in respect of the vehicle registration tax and other taxes accruing to his Department from the motoring sector; the way in which this compares with previous years; the extent to which this is expected to affect economic planning for the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31775/08]
Net VRT receipts to end of August are €1bn. My Department will publish an updated view on expected tax and Exchequer positions at the end of this quarter. A comprehensive assessment of the fiscal and economic position will be contained in the Budget which will be published on 14 October 2008. As is normal, I will not comment on the contents of the Budget in advance of that date.
96 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the contribution that has been made to Limerick County Council to meet the costs of the initial consultancy reports that have been commissioned in the aftermath of flooding in Newcastle West; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31828/08]
105 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the funding he has made available to Newcastle West and its environs in the aftermath of the recent flooding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31830/08]
107 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works has reviewed the initial report commissioned by Limerick County Council in the aftermath of flooding in the town and the response of his Department to the report, particularly in relation to the assertions contained in respect of civil works carried out along the banks of the River Arra; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31833/08]
109 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance when the River Arra through Newcastle West was last dredged; the plans in place to carry out works on the river; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31835/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 96, 105, 107 and 109 together.
Maintenance works on the River Arra at Newcastle West, involving the removal of vegetation to improve water flow, were carried out by the Office of Public Works subsequent to the recent serious flood event. Similar works had been carried out in 2006. Dredging work was not carried out in recent years as it was not deemed necessary due to the relatively steep gradient of the channel.
Limerick County Council did not seek a contribution from OPW towards the cost of the consultants' report that was commissioned by the Council in relation to the recent flood event. OPW staff provided technical input to the consultants in the preparation of the report.
OPW engineering staff have begun a detailed analysis of the causes of the flooding with a view to identifying potential mitigation measures. The OPW have reviewed the consultants' report and will take relevant findings into account in their analysis. Any issues in relation to riverbank development would be a matter for Limerick County Council. If options are identified that are economically and environmentally acceptable they will be included in OPW's flood relief programme, subject to other commitments and the availability of resources. The aim of such measures would be to provide the level of protection normally afforded by urban flood relief schemes i.e. protection against flood events that would be expected to have a 1% chance of occurring each year.
The Department of Social and Family Affairs is providing assistance where appropriate to victims of the recent flooding, through the Community Welfare Officer network.
97 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the future of Doneraile Park in County Cork; and if consideration has or will be given to the opening of Doneraile House to the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31848/08]
Doneraile Park will continue to be managed and maintained by the Office of Public Works as a National Historic Park. An on-going programme of maintenance and improvement works is being carried-out to the range of historic buildings in the Park, including Doneraile House (Court) and adjoining coach-house, walled gardens and associated structures. These works include improved general landscape maintenance, new sewerage connection for and upgrading of public toilets, repairs to main entrance gate, internal roads and bridges, health and safety and security works.
The Main House has been secured and weather-proofed but opening to the public might require further substantial works. Such a programme might need to be considered in the context of a partnership with other interests willing to invest in uses compatible with historic and conservation values.
98 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Finance his plans for a site (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the timetable for seeking planning permission for the revised visitor centre design; the timetable for re-pointing of the keep and completion of internal work outstanding within the keep; the completion of the legalities and consequent hand-over to the town council of the castle field; the timetable for the design of the drawbridge and other outstanding features of the castle gatehouse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31750/08]
The siting of the proposed Visitor Centre at Nenagh Castle is being re-examined and consultant architects are due to report on the matter shortly. The proposed Visitor Centre will then proceed to the planning stage. Work on the Keep has commenced with inspection works, initial condition assessment and mortar analysis and is progressing with the erection of scaffolding in preparation for repointing works. Works to the interior of the Keep are ongoing and significant progress has been made. Papers in relation to the transfer of the Castle Field are currently with the Chief State Solicitor. The timetable for the design of the drawbridge and other outstanding features of the Castle Gatehouse will form part of the final solution in relation to the proposed Visitor Centre.
99 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether the proposals contained in the Programme for Government to cut income tax rates will undermine the State’s ability to fund essential public services in view of recent economic developments which demonstrate the dangers inherent in an over-reliance on taxes related to construction and consumption. [31308/08]
I would remind the Deputy that the Programme for Government is a five year programme, which must be judged over the full five years of this Government, taking account of the health of the public finances. Budget 2008 was the first instalment of the delivery of that programme. However, it is clear that we have now entered a period of lower economic growth than was generally envisaged in the early part of last year. As such, this process must be managed carefully so as not to jeopardise our longer term future and this is what the Government is doing.
In terms of the weakness in tax revenue, it is fair to say that over the summer months the pace of the contraction has picked up considerably. At the end of August, taxes were nearly EUR2.8 billion behind target. My Department is closely monitoring overall tax performance in the run-up to the Budget. The weakness in taxes, particularly on VAT, CGT and Stamp Duty receipts, reflect a number of factors namely, the substantial adjustment in the housing market, the ongoing difficulties in the international financial markets and slower domestic economic activity such as weaker retail sales. Ireland is not unique in facing these difficulties and many of our euro area partners are experiencing similar forces acting upon their public finances.
My Department will publish an updated view on expected tax and Exchequer positions at the end of this quarter. A comprehensive assessment of the fiscal and economic position will be contained in the Budget which will be published on 14 October 2008. As is normal, I will not comment on the contents of the Budget in advance of that date. Budget 2009 will, however, set out a comprehensive approach to ensuring that Ireland remains on course for sustainable economic and social development over the medium term.
100 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Finance the reason the rate of vehicle registration tax for a car designated as a light commercial van is 20 times greater than the rate for other commercial vehicles even though it has fewer carbon emissions; if he will review this anomaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31638/08]
Section 130 of the Finance Act 1992 defines the various categories of motor vehicle. Three main categories of vehicle are relevant to this query: Category A, cars and minibuses with less than 12 seats; Category B, certain car-derived vans and jeep-derived vans; Category C, certain commercial vehicles, agricultural tractors and minibuses with at least 12 permanently fitted passenger seats.
As the Deputy will be aware Category A vehicles are charged VRT at rates ranging from 14% to 36% of their Open Market Selling Price (OMSP) based on the CO2 emissions of the car. All category B vehicles are charged VRT at a standard rate of 13.3% of OMSP. Vehicles falling within category C are liable to a flat rate registration charge of €50.
The rates for categories B and C vehicles are, as a matter of policy, set at lower levels than for vehicles in category A as the main purpose of such vehicles generally involves either carrying goods, or carrying passengers as a commercial transport venture. As category B vehicles combine a passenger-carrying profile along with a high goods-carrying capacity and are therefore frequently acquired as category A substitutes, they are not afforded the lowest rate of VRT. Category C vehicles, on the other hand, are very rarely acquired as a substitute for a category A vehicle; and for this reason, such vehicles are afforded a lower rate than category B vehicles.
101 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Finance if he will expand the disabled drivers’ scheme to take account of other forms of disability not eligible under the scheme; the reason for not undertaking such an expansion; the last time a review or expansion of the scheme was carried out since the scheme was introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31752/08]
103 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance when it is expected to act on the recommendations of the interdepartmental group dealing with the disabled drivers disabled passengers tax concession 1994 regulations; the exact status of the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31774/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 101 and 103 together.
The Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Scheme provides relief from VAT and Vehicle Registration Tax (up to a certain limit), and exemption from motor tax, on the purchase of an adapted car for transport of a person with specific severe and permanent physical disabilities.
The disability criteria for these concessions are set out in the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Regulations 1994. To get a Primary Medical Certificate, an applicant must be permanently and severely disabled within the terms of these Regulations. Some 12,500 people benefited under the scheme in 2007 at an overall estimated cost of €74 million. Any changes would have to be considered in the context of the annual Budget.
102 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the mechanism available to his Department to detect hidden inflation in the economy in the past 10 years; the information sought or received; and the action taken on foot on same. [31769/08]
As the Deputy is aware, inflation in Ireland is measured using the Consumer Price Index (CPI). For EU comparisons, the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) is used. Both measures are comprehensive measures of inflation at the economy level and are widely recognised as such. The main difference between the two is the exclusion of mortgage interest from the HICP. My Department uses both measures to monitor inflation developments on an ongoing basis.
Achieving a moderate rate of inflation is a key economic policy priority given its importance in helping to restore national competitiveness. In recognition of this, the Government has and continues to take positive action to control inflation. Such action includes implementing responsible fiscal policies, promoting competition and increased price transparency through the work of the Competition Authority and the National Consumer Agency, along with considerable investment in public infrastructure under successive National Development Plans.
In addition, the Government continues to work with the Social Partners to ensure that externally-driven price increases do not become embedded in our system as that only creates a vicious cycle from which no one wins. In this respect, the willingness of the various parties to compromise and adopt a realistic approach to wage developments in the recent pay talks is commendable.
104 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the number of visitors received on an annual basis to the Desmond Banqueting Hall, Newcastle West; the amount that has been spent by his Department on promoting the hall each year since 2000 to date in 2008; the locations of directional signage that the Office of Public Works has put in place indicating the location of the hall in the town; the budget in place to promote the Desmond Banqueting Hall in 2008/2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31829/08]
The number of visitors on an annual basis since 2000 is as follows:
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 to date |
|
Number |
1,924 |
2,328 |
1,522 |
2,531 |
2,272 |
2,224 |
3,214 |
2,748 |
2,400 |
The Office of Public Works has provided signage panels to Limerick County Council which is responsible for their erection.
There is no dedicated promotional budget for the Desmond Banqueting Hall. It forms part of the Heritage Properties portfolio consisting of over 750 properties of which over 60 are presented to the public with a guide service.
106 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the amount that has been budgeted through the national development plan for flood relief schemes; the amount that has been allocated to date for flood relief schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31832/08]
The Government allocated €382 million towards Flood Relief Activities in the National Development Plan from 2007 to 2013. Expenditure in 2007 was €23.1 million with anticipated expenditure in 2008 amounting to €29 million. The allocation for 2009 and subsequent years will be known when the annual Estimates are published.
108 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the towns and locations at which his Department previously assessed the actual impact to private property and businesses as a result of flooding since June 1997 to date in 2008; the action that was taken on foot of reports received by him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31834/08]
Office of Public Works staff respond as far as possible to all reports they receive of damage to private or public property and business as a result of flooding. Many of these requests do not generate formal reports as the position is outlined to interested parties in the course of discussions on the problem, and where OPW has a responsibility for maintenance of channels, necessary works are incorporated in ongoing maintenance programmes. Where OPW does not have a responsibility, this is explained and any other useful information is provided in an informal manner.
It would require a major investment of time to search through diaries and records to list all of the locations assessed in this manner and the outcome in each case. The cost and diversion of staff from their normal duties to do this would not be justified.
If the Deputy wishes to have information on any specific locations, I will be happy to provide that to him.
The list below is a record of the main areas OPW has been involved in during the time referred to by the Deputy. The areas include both Schemes undertaken directly by OPW and others in conjunction with the relevant Local Authorities.
Schemes Completed:
Mulkear River, Newport, Co. Tipperary
Nanny River, Duleek, Co. Meath
Sixmilebridge, Co. Clare
Gort Town, Bridge Street, Galway
Lacken (Ardrahan), Galway
Mulkear River, Cappamore, Co. Limerick
Bridgend, Co. Donegal
Maam Valley, Co Galway
Shinkeen Stream, Hazlehatch, Co. Kildare
Bandon River, Dunmanway, Co. Cork
Suir River, Carrick-on-Suir
River Nore, Kilkenny
Drumcollogher, Co. Limerick
Belhavel, Co Leitrim
Avoca, Aughrim & Baltinglass, Co Wicklow
Morrell River, Co Kildare
Lyreen-Meadowbrook Rivers, Co. Kildare
Al River, Athlone, Co Westmeath
Freemount, Co Cork
Scotch Quay, Waterford City
Mullinahone, Tipperary
Kinvara, Co Galway
Clancy's Strand, Limerick City
River Tolka, Meath
River Tolka, Dublin City area
Ongoing Schemes at various stages:
River Tolka, Fingal
Barrow River, Carlow Town
River Dodder, Dublin
John's River, Waterford
Ennis, Co. Clare
Munster Blackwater, Mallow, Co Cork
Munster Blackwater Fermoy, Co Cork
Enniscorthy, Co Wexford
Arklow, Co. Wicklow
Templemore, Co Tipperary
Mornington, Co. Meath
Tullow, Co. Carlow
Piltown, Co Kilkenny
Rye Water, Leixlip, Co Kildare
Limerick (Harry's Mall and Clancy Strand)
South Docklands, Dublin City
Abbeylara, Co Longford
Mullingar, Co Westmeath
Woodford, Co Offaly
River Suir, Clonmel
OPW, in conjunction with the relevant Local Authorities, are also undertaking Flood Risk Assessment and Management Plans in the following Catchments:
River Lee
River Dodder
River Liffey
Letterkenny
Fingal/East Meath
River Suir
110 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Finance the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31838/08]
There have been no monies expended or properties purchased in relation to the decentralisation programme of my Department to Tullamore and Kildare during the period 3 July 2008 to date. Since that date two (2) employees have decentralised to Tullamore.
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that no monies have been expended or properties purchased under the decentralisation programme since 3 July 2008 to date. Since that date Revenue have moved a total of 27 staff to the following Revenue locations.
|
Number of Staff |
Location |
|
12 |
Athy |
|
2 |
Cork |
|
1 |
Galway |
|
2 |
Kilkenny |
|
3 |
Limerick |
|
3 |
Navan |
|
3 |
Thurles |
|
1 |
Waterford |
I am advised by the Office of Public Works (OPW) that no properties (sites or buildings) have been purchased since 3 July 2008. However, the OPW has incurred other expenditure in relation to all decentralisation projects under their remit in the amount of €24,975,000 due to contractual obligations. Since that date two (2) staff have moved to advance premises in Scurlockstown, Co Meath.
In relation to the proposed decentralisation of the Public Appointments Service (PAS) and the Valuation Office to Youghal, there has been no expenditure to date on the purchase of properties, nor has there been any ancillary expenditure relating to the move. To date, no employees of the PAS or the Valuation Office have been decentralised to Youghal.
However, the Public Appointments Service have incurred expenditure in relation to the staffing of the Central Applications Facility to facilitate the decentralisation programme. The staffing costs during the period in question were approximately €30,725.
111 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Finance the anti-inflation policy and target inflation rates in place for the next 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31839/08]
The Deputy will recall that my Department's latest inflation forecasts were published on July 2nd as part of the Technical Update of Current Year Macroeconomic Forecasts. These set out its expectation that CPI inflation would average 4.3 per cent for 2008 as a whole. Since then the ECB announced a quarter percentage point increase in interest rates. Factoring this in would imply a CPI inflation rate of 4.5 per cent for 2008.
In the year to date, CPI inflation has averaged 4.6 per cent. However, like other commentators, my Department expects to see an easing in the average rate of inflation in the latter part of this year and into next. There are a number of reasons why the rate of inflation should decelerate going forward. These include a moderation in commodity prices, the pass-through of the strong euro and the slowdown in the economy. Technical factors such as favourable base effects will also contribute to an easing of inflation.
My Department will publish updated inflation forecasts as part of Budget 2009.
Achieving a moderate rate of inflation is a key economic policy priority given its importance in helping to restore national competitiveness. In recognition of this, the Government is taking positive action to control inflation. Over the short to medium-term this includes implementing responsible fiscal policies and promoting competition and increased price transparency through the work of the Competition Authority and the National Consumer Agency.
We are also continuing to prioritise investment in physical capital under the National Development Plan. Over the longer term, this will enhance our ability to produce more goods and services, which by improving the economy's efficiency should help to keep inflation in check.
Finally, from a competitiveness perspective, I would stress the importance of ensuring that externally-driven price increases do not become embedded in our system as that only creates a vicious cycle from which no one wins. In this respect, the willingness of the various parties to compromise and adopt a realistic approach to wage developments in the recent pay talks is commendable.
112 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost in tax expenditures on mortgage interest relief of a quarter percentage point rise in interest rates. [31853/08]
As the Deputy will be aware, the determination of interest rate policy is solely a matter for the Governing Council of the European Central Bank, which is independent in these matters. Accordingly, I do not believe it would be appropriate for me to speculate on ECB interest rate movements in 2009 or their impact on the cost of mortgage interest relief for next year. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the cost of mortgage interest relief in 2008 is expected to be approximately €665 million.
113 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of community welfare officers employed in Dublin 8; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31577/08]
114 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of community welfare officers employed in Dublin 10; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31578/08]
115 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of community welfare officers employed in Dublin 12; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31579/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 113 to 115, inclusive, together.
Almost 130,000 people work full-time or part-time in our public health services. In recent years, the Government's ongoing high level of investment in health has achieved and maintained significant increases in the numbers of doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals employed in the public health services. The Government has also invested heavily in the education and training of such personnel in order to secure a good supply of graduates to provide for the healthcare needs of the population into the future.
Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of its Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. The Executive is the appropriate body to consider the matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
116 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if a position (details supplied) has been advertised by the Health Service Executive; the number of applications for this position; and when this position will be filled. [31616/08]
The Deputy's question relates to the funding, management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
117 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when she expects a scheme (details supplied) pursuant to an Act to be finalised. [31622/08]
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has responsibility for administering the health repayment scheme in conjunction with the appointed scheme administrator KPMG/McCann Fitzgerald.
The HSE has advised my Department that as of 19th September 38,859 claim forms have been received under the Health Repayment Scheme. It is estimated that following adjustments for rejections and duplicate claims, the number of valid claims will be approximately 19,300. 17,684 claimants have received an offer of repayment and it is anticipated that the remaining offers will be processed by the end of November 2008. However it should be noted that the repayments offered in November cannot be paid until the statutory 28 day period has elapsed.
In addition claimants who receive offers in November must be given the opportunity to appeal the decision. The Appeals Officers must investigate each appeal independently, these investigations can require additional reviews by the Health Service Executive and the Scheme Administrator and certain appeals present a high level of complexity. This may influence the finalisation of the Health Repayment Scheme.
118 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of smear-takers who have now been registered under the cervical check service; the number of smear-takers who have applied for registration but are not yet registered; the amount of time it takes to process a registration; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31631/08]
The Deputy's question in relation to CervicalCheck is 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 matters raised.
119 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the funding made available to the respective voluntary groups and organisations in Health Service Executive south by the HSE in 2007 and to date in 2008; the schemes and programmes under which such funding has been allocated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31632/08]
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 issue raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
120 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the moneys made available to Health Service Executive south in 2007 and to date in 2008; the various schemes and programmes under which funding was allocated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31633/08]
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 issue raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
121 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the additional resources which are to be provided to University College Hospital Galway to specifically cater for cancer patients from the north west who are forced to travel to facilities in Galway; when the additional resources and facilities will be provided; if this will be in advance of the downgrading of the services in Sligo; the discussions which have taken place regarding the provision of some services in Northern Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31635/08]
Based on the National Quality Assurance Standards for Symptomatic Breast Disease Services, and the fact that the BreastCheck screening programme will significantly reduce the number of symptomatic breast cancer presentations, the Health Service Executive (HSE) determined that we require a total of eight specialist breast cancer centres nationally. It is important to clarify that this is not a downgrading of services but rather a consolidation of cancer care in designated centres which has the potential to improve survival by up to 20%.
In order to comply with the Standards, the HSE has directed seventeen hospitals to cease breast cancer services. Further staged reductions in the number of hospitals providing breast cancer services, including Sligo General, will occur over the next year in line with the development of quality assured capacity in the eight designated centres.
Funding of €7 million has been allocated in 2008 from the Programme across the eight centres for symptomatic breast disease services, to support additional staff, including Consultant, Radiography, Nursing and clerical posts. Funding has also been allocated for some necessary additional equipment.
The Director of the HSE National Cancer Control Programme is engaged in detailed planning to facilitate the transfer of services between locations. The Director will ensure sufficient capacity exists in designated centres prior to the transfer of services. The designation of cancer centres aims to ensure that patients receive the highest quality care while at the same time allowing local access to services, where appropriate. Where diagnosis and treatment planning is directed and managed by multidisciplinary teams based at the cancer centres, then much of the treatment, other than surgery, can be delivered in local hospitals, such as Sligo. Chemotherapy and support services will continue to be delivered locally.
In relation to the provision of services in Northern Ireland, I welcomed Minister McGimpsey's announcement last April, on the provision of a satellite radiotherapy centre (linked to Belfast City Hospital) to be located in Altnagelvin. It will provide the additional radiotherapy capacity needed to meet an anticipated increase in cancer in Northern Ireland and recognises the potential for cross border co-operation in the development of this resource. Officials from my Department and the Department of Health, Social Services & Public Safety are involved in ongoing discussions in this regard.
Cancer patients in the North West requiring radiation oncology treatment are referred to either St. Luke's Hospital Dublin or University College Hospital Galway. A Service Level Agreement is also in place for the referral of radiation oncology patients from Donegal to Belfast City Hospital.
122 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the additional resources which are to be provided to University College Hospital Galway to specifically cater for cancer patients from Mayo who are forced to travel to facilities in Galway; when the additional resources and facilities will be provided; if this will be in advance of the downgrading of the services in Castlebar; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31636/08]
Based on the National Quality Assurance Standards for Symptomatic Breast Disease Services, and the fact that the BreastCheck screening programme will significantly reduce the number of symptomatic breast cancer presentations, the Health Service Executive (HSE) determined that we require a total of eight specialist breast cancer centres nationally. It is important to clarify that this is not a downgrading of services but rather a consolidation of cancer care in designated centres which have the potential to improve survival by up to 20%.
In order to comply with the Standards, the HSE has directed seventeen hospitals to cease breast cancer services. Further staged reductions in the number of hospitals providing breast cancer services will occur over the next year in line with the development of quality assured capacity in the eight designated centres.
Funding of €7 million has been allocated in 2008 from the Programme across the eight centres for symptomatic breast disease services, to support additional staff, including Consultant, Radiography, Nursing and clerical posts. Funding has also been allocated for some necessary additional equipment.
The National Cancer Control Programme has advised that there will be dedicated facilities for the clinic serving Mayo breast patients in University College Hospital Galway. This will be achieved by making available new clinic space which has become available for the management of breast cases. Two beds are required to support this service with the majority of surgery being day or overnight stay cases.
The designation of cancer centres aims to ensure that patients receive the highest quality care while at the same time allowing local access to services, where appropriate. Where diagnosis and treatment planning is directed and managed by multidisciplinary teams based at the cancer centres, then much of the treatment, other than surgery, can be delivered in local hospitals, such as Castlebar. Chemotherapy and support services will continue to be delivered locally.
123 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [31654/08]
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.
124 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [31655/08]
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.
125 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [31656/08]
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.
126 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [31657/08]
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. 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.
127 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Cork will get health treatment abroad; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31672/08]
I understand that the Deputy is referring to treatment for gland melanoma. The specific question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the HSE under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to respond directly to the Deputy in this regard.
128 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will allocate the €101 million funding set aside in 2008 for the introduction of the fair deal scheme to ease the financial pressure on families who are facing significant nursing home bills due to the delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31674/08]
Budget 2008 provided €110 million for the implementation of the Nursing Homes Support Scheme, A Fair Deal. My colleague, the Minister for Health and Children, and I are conscious of the effect that the unavoidable and unforeseen delays in implementing Fair Deal are causing to some older people and their families. To date, €13 million has been allocated from the additional monies provided in Budget 2008 for the provision of 200 contract beds. Approval has also been given to the HSE to utilise a further €12 million in meeting costs associated with nursing home subventions and existing contract beds.
This brings to €25 million the total funding redirected from the Nursing Homes Support Scheme and committed to nursing home supports in 2008. The intention is that the balance of the €110 million will be used to meet certain other additional costs facing the health services this year, as part of the budgetary consolidation measures announced by the Government last July.
Both the Minister and I are fully committed to introducing the new Nursing Homes Support Scheme in 2009. The Minister expects to bring the Bill before the Houses of the Oireachtas for debate in this Dáil session.
129 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be given a bed in a hospital in Galway in order that their treatment can commence. [31694/08]
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.
130 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans she has in conjunction with the Health Service Executive to provide a mental health unit in north Tipperary; the location where patients from the north Tipperary constituency attend for treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31723/08]
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. The Executive, therefore, is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
131 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the waiting list for children seeking speech therapy in Tipperary north; if she will compare them with other areas nationally; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31725/08]
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 case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
132 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the takeover of a unit (details supplied) in County Tipperary; when the takeover will be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31728/08]
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 case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
133 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the average waiting time for an appointment with each specialist located at a hospital (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the reason for the different waiting times; the number of referrals to the National Treatment Purchase Fund from this hospital and the uptake of patients; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31749/08]
The management of waiting lists generally is a matter for the Health Service Executive and the individual hospitals concerned. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the matters raised by the Deputy. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matters investigated and to issue a reply directly to the Deputy.
134 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the measures in place to provide multidisciplinary teams outside the main centres of population to provide services for people with diabetes; the benefits of multidisciplinary teams; the location of multidisciplinary teams throughout the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31754/08]
The Deputy's question relates to the funding, management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
135 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people in north Tipperary who suffer from diabetes; the facilities available in north Tipperary to cater for the services of these people; the number of people who have to travel outside of the area to avail of services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31755/08]
The Deputy's question relates to the funding, management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
136 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of neurologists in north Tipperary per head of population; the number of neurology patients there are in north Tipperary on a waiting list for neurology services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31756/08]
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.
137 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children if the number of social workers working in north Tipperary has increased or decreased since the Health Service Executive recruitment embargo in September 2007; if the number of all reports from north Tipperary including child abuse and child welfare, to social work departments has increased or decreased in the same period; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31762/08]
147 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of social workers active in the north Tipperary area; the number of clients catered for; the number that are waiting on assistance from social workers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31761/08]
148 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of social workers working in north Tipperary in 1998 and the number of children availing of social work services in the same area at that time; the same information in respect of 2008; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31763/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 137, 147 and 148 together.
The Deputy's questions relate 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.
138 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children if there are grants available to parents of children who need speech therapy to enable them to access private speech therapy; if there are plans to introduce such grants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31824/08]
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 case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
139 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [31658/08]
140 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [31659/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 139 and 140 together.
I am aware of emerging concerns of the United States authorities regarding intercountry adoptions between the United States and Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Officials from my Office and the Adoption Board have been monitoring the situation and liaising closely with colleagues in the Department of Foreign Affairs and our embassy in Hanoi since these concerns emerged over recent months.
Adoptions between Socialist Republic of Vietnam and Ireland are regulated by a State to State agreement entitled the Agreement on Mutual Cooperation Concerning Adoption between the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and Ireland. Under the Agreement, it is a matter for the Vietnamese Authorities to determine that each child is legally available for adoption and for the Adoption Board to determine whether Irish applicants are eligible and suitable to adopt.
As the Deputy will be aware, my Office has been working to finalise a new Bill which will ratify the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-Operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption. As part of the preparations for the likely passage and entry into force of the new legislative arrangements for adoption in Ireland, my Office has been advising the Department of Foreign Affairs on the potential implications of the legislation on existing arrangements and agreements for those countries which have not yet ratified the Hague Convention. The Socialist Republic of Vietnam is one of those countries. These discussions, involving the Adoption Board and the Department of Foreign Affairs, include consideration of the re-negotiation of the existing Agreement with Vietnam to ensure it reaches the standards required under the new Bill. I hope to be in a position to open discussions shortly with Vietnam on a revised or new agreement, subject of course to the views and advice of my colleague, the Minister for Foreign Affairs. All of the matters referred to by the Deputy will be raised as part of those discussions. I would like to assure the Deputy of my attention to this issue.
141 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount paid to private companies pursuant to an Act (details supplied). [31621/08]
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has responsibility for administering the health repayment scheme in conjunction with the appointed scheme administrator KPMG/McCann Fitzgerald.
The HSE has advised that the following payments were made since the scheme was introduced:
|
Company |
Amount Paid to 31/8/2008 |
2007 |
2006 |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Scheme Administrator |
6,869,615.89 |
2,274,000.00 |
1,118,000.00 |
10,261,615.89 |
|
(KPMG & McCann/Fitzgerald) |
||||
|
IT Consultancy Services |
||||
|
Client Solutions |
20,216.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
20,216.00 |
|
IBM |
4,950.41 |
34,000.00 |
27,866.00 |
66,816.41 |
|
Iron Mountain (USA) |
1,365.97 |
1,467.00 |
2,378.00 |
5,210.97 |
|
Advertising |
||||
|
Drury Communications |
69,387.45 |
19,000.00 |
96,800.00 |
185,187.45 |
|
BBDO |
0.00 |
416,753.00 |
726,547.00 |
1,143,300.00 |
|
Legal Expenses |
867,813.12 |
770,000.00 |
485,700.00 |
2,123,513.12 |
|
Contact Consultancy — Accenture |
0.00 |
0.00 |
12,342.00 |
12,342.00 |
|
Appeals Office |
||||
|
IT Consultancy |
||||
|
Complete Network Technology |
7,000.00 |
7,260.00 |
5,000.00 |
19,260.00 |
|
IT Force |
29,932.98 |
9,500.00 |
44,247.00 |
83,679.98 |
|
Printing |
||||
|
Brunswick Press Ltd (Printing Costs) |
4,906.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
4,906.00 |
|
Annual Expenditure Totals |
7,875,187.82 |
3,531,980.00 |
2,518,880.00 |
|
|
Total Expenditure to 31st August 2008 |
13,926,047.82 |
142 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people on waiting lists for enhanced subvention in the respective Health Service Executive areas; when she will put forward a new scheme for enhanced subvention; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31629/08]
Both the Minister for Health and Children and I are fully committed to introducing the new Nursing Homes Support Scheme in 2009. The Minister for Health and Children, expects to bring the Bill before the Houses of the Oireachtas for debate in this Dáil session. As regards the number of people on waiting lists for enhanced subvention, the Department has asked the Health Service Executive to have this matter investigated and to issue a reply to the Deputy.
143 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the implementation of the Bacon Report of 2001 has resulted in newly qualified physiotherapists being unable to find work here; the number of physiotherapists offering for employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31677/08]
There has been a growing demand for, and investment in, physiotherapy in the health services over the last number of years. There were a number of issues contributing to difficulties accessing physiotherapy services, one of which had been the supply of qualified personnel available to fill vacant posts. A particular priority for my Department and the Department of Education and Science in recent years has been the expansion of the supply of therapy graduates. In this regard, the number of training places for physiotherapy has been increased from 64 to 145, which represents an increase of 127% since 1997.
The number of physiotherapists employed in the public service has grown from 593 whole time equivalents in 1997 to 1433 in 2008. This is an increase of 840 wholetime equivalents, which represents a growth of 142% in that period. The Government continues to support the development of new physiotherapy posts, particularly in the areas of Disability and Primary Care. My Department is working closely with the HSE, and representatives of the professions, with a view to ensuring that the optimum number of such posts are filled as expeditiously as possible, having due regard to the requirement on the HSE to operate within its budget.
144 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of speech therapists appointed to cover the Tipperary north region; the reason for the delay in speech therapy intervention for children; her plans and the time frame involved in reducing the waiting time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31726/08]
There has been a growing demand for, and investment in, speech and language therapy in the health services over the last number of years.
There were a number of issues contributing to difficulties accessing Speech and Language Therapy services, one of which had been the supply of qualified personnel available to fill vacant posts. A particular priority for my Department and the Department of Education and Science in recent years has been the expansion of the supply of therapy graduates. In this regard, the number of training places for Speech and Language Therapy has been increased from 25 to 105, with the establishment of three new Speech and Language Therapy Schools in National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG), University College Cork (UCC) and University of Limerick (UL), which represents an increase of 320% since 1997.
The number of speech and language therapists employed in the public service has grown from 282 whole time equivalents in 1997 to 721 in 2008. This is an increase of 439 wholetime equivalents, which represents a growth of 156% in that period. The Government continues to support the development of new Speech and Language Therapy posts, particularly in the areas of Disability and Primary Care. My Department is working closely with the HSE, and representatives of the professions, with a view to ensuring that the optimum number of such posts are filled as expeditiously as possible, having due regard to the requirement on the HSE to operate within its budget.
The part of the Deputy's question regarding the number of speech and language therapists employed in the Tipperary north region 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 the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
145 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children when the staff necessary to administer the CT scanner at Nenagh Hospital will be appointed; the period that the scanner has been in the hospital without use; the cost to the hospital of maintenance of the scanner; the reason for the delay; the number of CT scanners in place but not being used in hospitals throughout the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31751/08]
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.
146 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to reinstate a person (details supplied) to the Borrisoleigh area as this person operates in Templemore; the timeframe for the move; the reason for the delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31757/08]
Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of its Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. The Executive is the appropriate body to consider the matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
149 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding changes to blood testing services at the Mater Hospital; if the walk-in service has been discontinued; the reason for same; if her attention has been drawn to the negative effect these changes will have on waiting times for the service and to certain patient-types, such as patients with diabetes; and if she will seek a timetable from the hospital as to when the walk-in service will be fully reinstated. [31854/08]
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 issue raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
150 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Health and Children the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32117/08]
As the Deputy will be aware my Department is not one of the Departments scheduled for decentralisation under the Government's Decentralisation Programme. To date fifty-five civil servants have transferred to decentralising Departments from my Department. Further details in respect of the transfer of these officers are available from the decentralising Departments.
151 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Transport the time-scale for the construction of Metro North; the amount of money that has been allocated for the first phase of construction; the estimated cost of the project; if the project is on schedule; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31667/08]
The RPA continues to make good progress in the PPP tender process for Metro North. The initial phase of the PPP public procurement process was conducted in 2007 resulting in the formation of four pre-qualified consortia for the purpose of tendering for the project. Tender documentation was formally issued to the four pre-qualified consortia on 12th May 2008. Since then the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) has held a number of meetings with the consortia. Following on from a request from some of the consortia, the RPA recently agreed to extend the closing date for submission of tenders by two months. Receipt of tenders is now required by 6 February 2009.
In addition, good progress is being made in the planning process. The RPA placed copies of the Railway Order application on display on 17 September in accordance with the 6 week statutory public notice requirement pursuant to section 37 of the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001.
In January 2008, the Government approved the funding structure for the Metro North PPP, including an Exchequer provision for advance works ahead of the main PPP contract and a capital contribution during construction. In accordance with the requirements of the Government decision on the Transport 21 Investment Framework, Metro North will be submitted to Government for a final decision on the project on the completion of the tender process. I am not in a position to give any information in relation to the budget for Metro North project in advance of the completion of the public procurement process. The publication of such commercially sensitive information prior to the completion of the competitive procurement process would prejudice the State's capacity to derive maximum value for money in respect of the project. The target date for the completion of the project is 2013. However, this will be critically determined by the outcome of both the planning and procurement processes.
152 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the failure of Dublin City Council to provide a positive proposal for the introduction of bye-laws in relation to major events in Croke Park, and that the Roads Act 2007 specifically included provision for such bye-laws; if he will ensure that Dublin City Council introduces bye-laws for residents only parking as envisaged in the primary legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31669/08]
The amendment to the Road Traffic Acts that is included in the Roads Acts 2007 enables road authorities to make bye-laws to apply a restriction on parking in respect of specified events at a specified venue or venue. The making of such bye-laws is at the discretion of each road authority and is a reserved function, i.e. the bye-laws are made by the elected members of the local city council or county council. I have no function in this matter.
153 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Transport the laws and regulations which relate to the operation of helicopters by private individuals; if there are specific restrictions relating to the operation of helicopters within residential areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31676/08]
The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) is responsible for safety regulation of the civil aviation industry in Ireland, including the regulation of helicopters. The IAA has informed me that helicopter owners and pilots must operate their helicopters in accordance with S.I. No. 61 of 2006, Irish Aviation Authority (Operations) Order, 2006 and S.I. No. 72 of 2004, Irish Aviation Authority (Rules of the Air) Order, 2004. Safety of the public and criteria for landing sites is prescribed for in the aforementioned Orders.
Regarding the regulations and requirements for helicopter operations operating to/from an open space in the proximity of a densely populated residential area, the IAA has informed me that the following requirements are in place. Article 5 (d) and (e) of Statutory Instrument S.I. No 334 of 2000 (Aerodromes and Visual Ground Aids) Order states that an aircraft shall not take-off or land at any place in the State save at — In the case of a rotorcraft any place where the aircraft may take-off or land without undue hazard to persons or property and in respect of which the owner or occupier shall have given permission. Rule 2 of Statutory Instrument S.I. No 72 of 2004 (Rules of the Air) Order, states that "An aircraft shall not be operated in a negligent or reckless manner so as to endanger life or property". Aeronautical Notice NR O.41 ‘Operation of Helicopters at unprepared sites' reinforces the regulations set out in both S.I. 72 of 2004 and S.I. 334 of 2000 while at the same time gives additional guidance on procedures to be followed at ad-hoc landing sites.
The pilot of a helicopter is the responsible person with regard to public safety while landing at a site and the landowner's permission must be sought for landing. The IAA informed me that regulatory requirements are under constant review by the Authority and where necessary are amended to ensure that safety is not compromised.
154 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Transport his plans to increase the fine for people who illegally use designated disabled parking spaces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31721/08]
I currently have no plans to increase the level of fines for illegal parking in a designated disabled person's parking bay. Such illegal parking has been included in the fixed charge system since April 2006 and attracts a fixed charge in lieu of prosecution of €80 if paid within 28 days or €120 if paid within the following 28 days. The fines payable on conviction in court were increased with effect from March 2007, and are currently a maximum of €1000 for a first offence.
155 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport the additional funding that has been requested by Limerick County Council from his Department to meet the costs of works that have been carried out and are underway in the Newcastle West area following flooding on 1 August 2008; the amount that has been made available to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31836/08]
The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads in their areas is a matter for local authorities to be funded from their own resources supplemented by State Grants. The initial selection of projects or works to be funded under the various grant categories is also a matter for local authorities.
The funds available to local authorities for improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads are intended to cover contingencies arising from severe weather conditions. The Memorandum on Grants for Non-National Roads provides that the cost of remedial works necessitated by such conditions must be met from these resources and that local authorities should set aside contingency sums to finance these works.
My Department is also prepared to consider sympathetically any request from local authorities to adjust their multi-annual Restoration Programmes in order to prioritise work on regional and local roads necessitated by severe weather conditions. Funding of national roads is a matter for the National Roads Authority.
156 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Transport the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32120/08]
There have been no moneys expended, no properties purchased and no employees have decentralised. Under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 in relation to my Department and its agencies.
157 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to a decentralisation project (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the location of the proposed site, with a timeframe for the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31724/08]
I can inform the Deputy that County Tipperary and, in particular Roscrea, are priority locations under my Department's decentralisation programme. Around four hundred posts are scheduled to move to the County and this represents over 40% of my Department's commitment to the decentralisation process nationwide. Around eighty posts from the Equality Authority and the Garda Ombudsman Commission are planned to move from Dublin to Roscrea and last year the Equality Authority opened an advance office in the town to accommodate twenty people.
My Department is working closely with the Office of Public Works to arrive at a property solution that will satisfy the needs of both agencies and the target date for completion of this project is 2010.
158 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. [31792/08]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 12 August 2004. 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 10 July 2008, 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.
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.
159 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32118/08]
My Department's current decentralisation programme is very well advanced and has proven a great success to date. It involves the relocation of over nine hundred posts from twelve agencies to seven provincial locations.
The provision of office accommodation for Government Departments is a matter for the Office of Public Works but I can inform the Deputy that, since July 3rd last, no properties have been purchased by that Office in respect of decentralised offices for my Department's agencies. Non-property costs arising under this heading relate to areas such as IT, the purchase of office equipment and training. To date this year, approximately one million euro has been spent in respect of costs incurred under these headings, which relate to the decentralisation of over five hundred posts to all seven locations.
160 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a person (details supplied) in Dublin 22 has been issued with a restraining order and had their travel documents seized in view of the fact they have refugee status; the reason they are being requested to travel to Dundalk to register with immigration in view of the fact that they live in Clondalkin, Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31590/08]
I have sought a report on the matter from the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS). When I have received this report, I will then write to the Deputy directly.
161 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 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31591/08]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Questions No. 842 of Tuesday 17 June 2008 and No. 149 of Thursday 29 May 2008 and the written Replies to those Questions. 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, 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 before the file is passed to me for decision.
162 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the residency status or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31593/08]
182 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in the matter of residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31782/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 162 and 182 together.
I refer the Deputy to the replies to Parliamentary Questions No. 601 of 17 April 2008, and No.446 of 6 November 2007. The position remains as stated.
163 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for refugee status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31594/08]
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.
While it is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications, I would point out to the Deputy that delays in finalising cases can occur for a variety of reasons, including giving applicants and appellants the fullest opportunity possible to present their cases and the determination of Judicial Review proceedings, where appellants pursue such a course of action.
Where the latter is relevant, the time taken to discharge any proceedings is a matter for the Courts and is not something that I, as Minister, can comment on. It is, of course, open to the applicant or the appellant to withdraw any Judicial Review proceedings which they may have instigated and this would allow for their application to be processed in the normal manner.
164 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for refugee status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24. [31595/08]
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.
While it is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications, I would point out to the Deputy that delays in finalising cases can occur for a variety of reasons, including giving applicants and appellants the fullest opportunity possible to present their cases and the determination of Judicial Review proceedings, where appellants pursue such a course of action.
Where the latter is relevant, the time taken to discharge any proceedings is a matter for the Courts and is not something that I, as Minister, can comment on. It is, of course, open to the applicant or the appellant to withdraw any Judicial Review proceedings which they may have instigated and this would allow for their application to be processed in the normal manner.
165 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31596/08]
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 April 2006.
On examination of the application it was determined that the person concerned did not satisfy the residency requirements as set out in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. A letter informing the applicant of this was issued on 5 July 2006 and a further letter was issued on the 31 August 2007. It is open to the individual in question to lodge a new application if and when he is in a position to meet the statutory residency requirement applicable at that time.
166 Deputy Edward O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the delay in having a report (details supplied) issued. [31597/08]
I can inform the Deputy that the Coroner inquiry process is a matter for the relevant Coroner, who is independent in the exercise of that quasi-judicial role. In certain cases a post-mortem will be required so as to enable the Coroner to carry out his/her statutory functions and a range of factors can influence the time it takes for the post mortem report to be received from the pathologist concerned. I understand from the Cork Coroner's office that in their experience it generally takes between 3 and 6 months for a post-mortem report to be received but that this may take longer where further specialist tests are required (e.g. toxicology, histology and microbiology tests).
167 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will review the decision to deport in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin in view of the fact that circumstances have changed since the original decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31604/08]
I refer the Deputy to the Reply to Parliamentary Question No. 222 of Thursday, 3 April 2008. The status of the person concerned remains as set out in that Reply. The person concerned has continued to meet the presentation requirements of the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) and is due to present again on the shortly
168 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected status regarding an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 1; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31605/08]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 11 March 2003. 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 30 December 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 before the file is passed to me for decision.
169 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 Dublin 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31606/08]
The persons concerned are a husband and wife. The first named person concerned has been granted Leave to Remain in the State for the period to 9 May 2010. This decision was conveyed in writing to the person concerned by letter dated 9 May 2007. The second named person concerned has been granted Leave to Remain in the State for the period to 17 September 2010. This decision was conveyed in writing to the person concerned by letter dated 17 September 2007.
170 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for citizenship in the name of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31607/08]
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.
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 18; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31608/08]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 23 October 2003. 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 12 July 2005, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of 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 before the file is passed to me for decision.
172 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a green card in their own right will issue in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who arrived here more than five years ago under family reunification through their mother; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31609/08]
I have been informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the person referred to was the subject of a family reunification application and was granted family reunification in February 2002. There is no record of any other application in relation to matters received from the person in question.
173 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for family reunification in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31610/08]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the person in question made a family reunification application on 26 September 2005 on behalf of her husband. The person in question withdrew this application on 3 March 2006 and made a new application in respect of her mother and brother. The application was forwarded to the Refugee Applications Commissioner for investigation as required under Section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996. This investigation was completed and the Commissioner forwarded a report to my Department on 20 June 2006.
A decision issued on 27 July 2006 refusing the application as the subjects of the application did not qualify as dependents under Section 18(4)(b) of the Refugee Act 1996. Since this decision further correspondence was received from the person in question to which a reply issued on 5 August 2008.
174 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. [31611/08]
I understand from the Immigration Division of my Department that a decision has been reached in relation to the application and the person in question will be informed of the decision shortly.
175 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 1; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31612/08]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 22 January 2004. 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 11 July 2008, 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.
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.
176 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency and family reunification in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31613/08]
I have been informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that a decision was made in relation to the family reunification application and the person in question was informed of that decision in writing on the 14th August 2008.
177 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has satisfied himself that a person (details supplied) in County Cork is not subject to Garda harassment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31671/08]
Over the past thirty years, the person to whom the Deputy refers has made a variety of complaints against the Garda Commissioner, individual named members of the Garda Síochána in various stations in Cork, Cork County Council officials, members of the Judiciary and members of the legal profession.
At present there are a number of relevant sets of civil proceedings which are still in being. These have been instituted by the complainant against the Garda Commissioner, individual members of the Garda Síochána as well as a member of the judiciary. Since these cases relate to the subject matter of the Deputy's Question it would be inappropriate for me to comment further.
178 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is in a position to supply the information in his answer to Parliamentary Question No. 659 of 5 February 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31678/08]
I have asked the Garda Commissioner for an immediate report on the matter and expect to be in a position to communicate with the Deputy shortly.
179 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, following the detention of a person (details supplied) at Cloverhill Prison overnight and being strip searched in front of prison officials although the person’s paperwork was entirely in order and the person was merely seeking to travel to Limerick to visit relations, he has received a report on the incident; and the measures he has taken to ensure an apology has been made and an assurance that such an incident will not recur. [31683/08]
First of all it is important to set out the legal provisions that govern entry to the State of foreign nationals. Every person landing in the State, including the holder of a visa, is obliged, pursuant to the provisions of section 11 (2) of the Immigration Act, 2004, to furnish to an immigration officer such information in such manner as an immigration officer may reasonably require for the purposes of the performance of his or her functions. The fact that a visa is a permission to present at the frontiers of the State but does not guarantee entry to the State was confirmed by the High Court as recently as 23rd May 2008 (Emmanuel Omatayo James & Others — V — Minister for Justice, Equality & Law Reform). At section 4 of the Immigration Act, 2004, provision is made for an immigration officer to authorise a non-national to land in the State. However sub-sections (3) of section 4 enumerates, at (a) to (k) fourteen circumstances in which an immigration officer, may, on behalf of the Minister, refuse to give a person a permission to land in the State. The circumstances, any one of which may give rise to a permission to land being refused, include, the fact that there is reason to believe that the non-national intends to enter the State for purposes other than those expressed by the non-national. In performing his or her functions under the Immigration Act, 2004, an immigration officer is obliged, pursuant to the provisions of the Act, to have regard to all the circumstances of the non-national concerned known to the officer or represented to the officer by him or her.
The Garda National Immigration Bureau dealt with the case of the person who is the subject of this Parliamentary Question in accordance with these provisions. In this instance, I am advised that the applicant claimed he was visiting a named person he identified first as his brother and then as a cousin — when, in fact, they are not related. This fact was established when telephone contact was made with the named person. This was a significant factor in the Immigration Officer's decision.
As regards the committal of the person concerned to Cloverhill Prison on 9 September I am informed that he was processed through Reception in line with standard practice. He would not have been in the line of sight of anyone other than prison officers searching him. He was also treated as all other committals in accordance with Irish Prison Rules. Such searching is entirely appropriate and necessary to ensure the security and safety of the prison and the health and safety of the individual concerned. In line with Standard Operational Procedures, the individual was seen on Landing D1 on the morning of 10 September as a new committal. I also understand that the records indicate that the Rules and Regulations were explained to him and a phone card application was issued. No complaints were recorded. The person concerned also received two visitors while in Cloverhill Prison and was discharged to the custody of the Garda National Immigration Bureau on the evening of 10 September 2008.
There is no doubt that the individual was very distressed by these events. However, I am satisfied that both the Immigration and Prison authorities fully complied with all the necessary legal and administrative procedures in their handling of this case. I am also satisfied that the individual was treated with courtesy and respect at all times.
Finally, may I add by way of general comment that many individuals attempt to enter the State illegally by circumventing normal immigration procedures through deception or misrepresentation. In this regard it may be of interest to note that there was a case at Dublin Airport last July in which a person purporting to be a priest and who was wearing clothing typically worn by a cleric, was refused leave to land and subsequently admitted that he was not in fact a priest. Such deception is a global phenomenal that puts an onus on immigration authorities worldwide to strike a balance between the detection of illegal movements while at the same time facilitating the efficient throughput of bona fide passengers. I am satisfied, having regard to the multitude of passengers that pass through our ports annually (25 million in Dublin Airport alone) that the Irish Immigration authorities strenuously work to achieve that balanced but effective approach.
180 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an application has been received for a person (details supplied) under the repatriation scheme; the status of the application; when the application will be finalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31718/08]
I can confirm that my Department received the formal application and supporting documentation from the United Kingdom authorities in March, 2008. The matter was referred to the State's Legal Officers for advices in line with all such applications and these advices have been received. Various reports were sought and have recently been received by my Department from bodies in this Jurisdiction. I expect to make a decision on this application shortly.
The Convention and the Transfer of Sentenced Persons Act, 1995, requires extensive documentation to be exchanged between both jurisdictions in order to allow an application to be fully considered. A three way consent is also required to enable any transfer to take place, i.e., from the authorities of both jurisdictions and from the person concerned. On receipt of those consents (assuming they will be forthcoming), an application must then be made to the High Court for a warrant authorising the transfer of the person concerned and his continued detention here. On receipt of the High Court Warrant arrangements are then made for the transfer of the prisoner. Applications for transfer to Ireland can take approximately eighteen months to process.
These procedures are required under the Convention and the Transfer of Sentenced Persons Act, 1995, and must be adhered to in processing each application. I should also advise the Deputy that the Convention does not confer an automatic right on any person to be transferred nor does it impose an obligation on any State to comply with a request for transfer.
181 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the proposals for the development of farmland at Dromard, Templemore, County Tipperary which was purchased for further development by the Garda College in Templemore; the time-frame for the proposed development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31719/08]
I refer the Deputy to my response to Parliamentary Question No. 768 of 10 July, 2008. The position remains unchanged.
183 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in the matter of residency and refugee status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31783/08]
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.
While it is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications, I would point out to the Deputy that delays in finalising cases can occur for a variety of reasons, including giving applicants and appellants the fullest opportunity possible to present their cases and the determination of Judicial Review proceedings, where appellants pursue such a course of action. Where the latter is relevant, the time taken to discharge any proceedings is a matter for the Courts and is not something that I, as Minister, can comment on. It is, of course, open to the applicant or the appellant to withdraw any Judicial Review proceedings which they may have instigated and this would allow for their application to be processed in the normalmanner.
184 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected position in the matter of residency status in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31784/08]
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 each application is made following receipt of the recommendation of the Refugee Applications Commissioner or the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal, as appropriate.
While it is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications, I would point out to the Deputy that delays in finalising cases can occur for a variety of reasons, including giving applicants and appellants the fullest opportunity possible to present their cases and the determination of Judicial Review proceedings, where appellants pursue such a course of action. Where the latter is relevant, the time taken to discharge any proceedings is a matter for the Courts and is not something that I, as Minister, can comment on. It is, of course, open to the applicant or the appellant to withdraw any Judicial Review proceedings which they may have instigated and this would allow for their application to be processed in the normal manner.
185 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the delay in the determination of the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31786/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State with his mother and brother. He was included as a child dependant in his mother's asylum application which was lodged on 9 October 1996. While this asylum application was refused following consideration of the case by my Department's then Asylum Division, the mother of the person concerned was granted temporary permission to remain in the State in June 1997, a position renewed on an annual basis up to recently with the most recent renewal for a three year period, to 20 August 2011.
Following receipt of the Deputy's Parliamentary Question in relation to the person concerned, I have asked Department Officials to review his case and, following the completion of this review, my Department Officials will, at an early date, write to the person concerned to advise him of his position in the State.
186 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the necessary updating of documentation will take place in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who has been requested by their employer to provide an updated stamp four, failing which, their employment will be terminated; if steps will be taken to address the issue and the matter of ongoing residency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31787/08]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the person in question was granted residence in the State under EU Treaty Rights on the basis of her marriage to a German national for a 5 year period on 22 May 2003. The person in question subsequently separated from the German national and re-applied on 8 July 2008 for residence in the State under EU Treaty Rights on the basis of her partnership with a Dutch national.
The person in question should contact her local Immigration Registration Officer with a view to applying for a ‘Stamp 4' valid for six months while the current application is being processed. A letter has issued to the person in question in this regard.
187 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to residency and naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31788/08]
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 each application is made following receipt of the recommendation of the Refugee Applications Commissioner or the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal, as appropriate.
188 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected citizenship status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31789/08]
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 June 2007. Officials in that Section inform me that processing of the application has commenced and the file will be forwarded to me for a decision in the near future.
189 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31790/08]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 530 of Thursday, 17 April 2008, and the written reply to that question.
The person concerned, accompanied by her infant child, applied for asylum on 16 January 2004. Her application was refused following consideration of her 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 12 September 2005, 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 were submitted on behalf of the person concerned at that time.
By letter dated 20 February 2008, the person concerned was notified of her entitlement to apply, within a defined time period, for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006). While the person concerned did not submit an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State within the defined time period, she later submitted such an application and this application is currently under consideration. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned, and her legal representative, 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 is passed to me for decision.
190 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected position in regard to an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31791/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 19 August 2005 and applied for asylum. Her application was refused following consideration of her 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 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 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.
191 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 6; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31793/08]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 6 June 2006. 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 28 December 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. 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.
192 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 Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31794/08]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 159 of Thursday, 29 May 2008 and the written reply to that question.
The person concerned applied for asylum on 5 November 2004. Her application was refused following consideration of her 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 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 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). She 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.
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.
193 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress to date in the application for residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31795/08]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 159 of Thursday, 29 May 2008 and the written reply to that question.
The 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, 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. 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.
194 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in the application for residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31796/08]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 18 August 2004. 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 20 February 2008, 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. 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.
195 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress of status in the matter of residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31797/08]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 18 August 2004. Her application was refused following consideration of her 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 20 February 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). 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.
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.
196 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status in the matter of residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31798/08]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 14 February 2006 and applied for asylum. Her application was refused following consideration of her 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 27 November 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.
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). 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.
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.
197 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in the matter of residency in the case of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31799/08]
The first named person concerned claimed asylum in the State on 3 February 2003 and had her claim examined by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and subsequently on appeal by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal, following which it was recommended that she should be recognised as a refugee. Based on this recommendation, the person concerned was advised of the decision to issue her with a formal declaration of refugee status by letter dated 10 May 2005. This communication also advised the person concerned of the rights and entitlements accompanying refugee status in the State. The person concerned continues to hold refugee status in the State.
There is no record of the second named person concerned as having entered the State or of having applied for any residency rights in this State.
198 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in the matter of residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31800/08]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 23 January 2006. 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 19 July 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.
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.
199 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the residency application in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31802/08]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 30 July 2003. 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 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 before the file is passed to me for decision.
200 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the family reunification application in the case of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31803/08]
The application for family reunification was made in November 2006. The application was forwarded to the Refugee Applications Commissioner for investigation as required under Section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996. Following the conclusion of their investigation the Commissioner forwarded a report to my Department.
This application will be considered by my Department and a decision will issue shortly.
201 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress to date in the matter of residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31804/08]
I refer the Deputy to my Reply to his Parliamentary Question No. 909 of Wednesday 24 September 2008. The position in the State of the person concerned is as set out in that Reply.
202 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in the matter of family reunification in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31805/08]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that at present there is no Family Reunification application pending in respect of the above named person.
203 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in the matter of residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31806/08]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 191 of Thursday, 28 February 2008 and the written Reply to that Question.
The person concerned applied for asylum on 22 June 2001. 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), he was informed, by letter dated 10 March 2003, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of submitting written representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State.
Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned and will be fully considered before the file is passed to me for decision.
204 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in the matter of residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31807/08]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 14 April 2005. 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 20 February 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.
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.
205 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in the matter of residency in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31808/08]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 158 of Thursday, 1 May 2008, and the written Reply to that Question.
The immigration case histories and up to date positions of the two persons concerned, a husband and wife, are almost identical. As a result, for the purposes of the Deputy's Question, I will deal with the two cases as one.
Both of the persons concerned applied for asylum on 12 October 2005. Their respective asylum applications were refused following the individual consideration of their cases 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), both of the persons concerned were informed, he by letter dated 30 June 2006 and she by letter dated 5 July 2006, that the Minister proposed to make Deportation Orders in respect of them. They were each 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 they should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations were submitted on behalf of both of the persons concerned and will be fully considered before the files are passed to me for decision.
206 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress in the application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31809/08]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 2 June 2000. 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 1 March 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 received on behalf of the person concerned.
Following consideration of his case 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, a Deportation Order was signed in respect of the person concerned on 27 April 2005. Notice of this Order was served by registered letter, dated 4 May 2005, placing a legal requirement on the person concerned to ‘present' himself at the Offices of the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) on 12 May 2005 in order to make arrangements for his deportation from the State. The person concerned ‘presented', as required, on this occasion but failed to ‘present' on a subsequent occasion and was therefore classified as a person who was evading his deportation.
By letter dated 24 June 2008, the legal representative of the person concerned lodged an application for revocation of the Deportation Order, in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 (11) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended). This application is under consideration at present. When a decision has been made on this application, this will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned and his legal representative. In the meantime, the person concerned remains the subject of a Deportation Order and, as such, he must comply with any reporting requirements placed on him by the Garda National Immigration Bureau.
207 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will facilitate the updating of travel documentation in the case of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 20; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31810/08]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the daughter of the person in question was issued with a Travel Document on 15 September 2008. The Travel Document is valid until 14 March 2009.
208 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31811/08]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 834 of Thursday, 10 July 2008, and the written Reply to that Question.
The person concerned applied for asylum on 11 December 2006. Her application was refused following consideration of her 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 22 November 2007, 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). 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.
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.
209 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31812/08]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 145 of Thursday, 26 June 2008, and the written Reply to that Question.
The person concerned applied for asylum on 16 May 2005. 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 26 April 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 before the file is passed to me for decision.
210 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to residency and family reunification in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31813/08]
I understand from the Immigration Division of my Department that a decision has been reached in relation to the application and the person in question will be informed of the decision shortly.
211 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31814/08]
I have been informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that contact was made with the person referred to in the Deputy's question on 11 July 2008, seeking documentation in order to process their application. To date the Immigration Division has not received this documentation.
212 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if and when residency status will be clarified in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; when travel documentation will be updated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31815/08]
The person concerned has recently had her permission to remain in the State renewed for a further three year period, until 20 August 2011. This renewal decision was conveyed in writing to the person concerned by letter dated 7 August 2008.
My Department has no record of an outstanding application for a travel document from the person concerned.
213 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 Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31816/08]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 16 October 2003. 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 15 August 2008, 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.
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.
214 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will confirm having received an application for a temporary visa in respect of a person (details supplied) for participation in an important project which takes place in Dublin in early October 2008; if he will take steps to have this application for a visa by this person expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31821/08]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the visa application referred to has been approved.
215 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide detailed documentation of the gratuities received by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9 during their detention in Mountjoy Prison. [31855/08]
I am informed by the Director General of the Irish Prison Service that all prisoners are statutorily entitled to a daily gratuity. The person referred to by the Deputy served a total of 230 days and earned a total of €540.50 based on a gratuity payment rate of €2.35 per day. This was used by the person referred to in the prison tuck shop during his term of imprisonment. I understand from the Irish Prison Service that the relevant documentation issued to the person in question on 24 September, 2008.
216 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of the recent agreement between Ireland and the United States for a one year J- Visa which will allow Irish people to work in the United States; if this arrangement is to be reciprocal, to allow American citizens to work here; when he expects this scheme to be operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31680/08]
As the Deputy will be aware, the Government continues to attach the highest priority to finding a solution for our undocumented citizens in the United States. At the same time, we have also argued that the long term strength of our bilateral relationship with the United States would benefit greatly by the establishment of new immigration arrangements which would facilitate greater legal migration between the two countries, an approach which was endorsed in the all-party motion passed in November 2007.
In this context, we have this week concluded a new Working Holiday Agreement with the United States that will enable a minimum of 20,000 Irish citizens each year who are in, or have recently completed, post secondary education to work and travel in the United States for up to twelve months. The new Working Holiday Agreement is reciprocal; under its terms, up to 5,000 US citizens will also be able to work and travel in Ireland on the same basis. The Agreement is due to come into effect in late 2008. Further detail on the terms of the Agreement is available on the Department's website, www.dfa.ie .
The Agreement is a significant development in our visa arrangements with the United States. Its signing is part of a three pronged set of objectives which I have been advocating during my visit to the United States this week , the other elements being our efforts to seek a solution for our undocumented citizens, and also new bilateral arrangements to provide long-term visas for Irish people wishing to work in the United States.
217 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32116/08]
Under the Government's decentralisation programme, the Development Cooperation Directorate of the Department of Foreign Affairs, which is Irish Aid's headquarters, is decentralising to Limerick. This is scheduled to be completed in early November 2008 and involves the relocation to Limerick of 138 posts.
The Office of Public Works (OPW) is responsible for the provision of office accommodation for the Directorate in Limerick and is finalising work on a suitable premises on Henry Street in Limerick city centre. The OPW is responsible for Capital and Current budgets for Property and Accommodation costs incurred under the decentralisation programme.
An advance party has already decentralised to interim office premises in Limerick, with 76 officers currently in place. Of these 76 officers, 16 have decentralised since 3 July 2008. The remaining 62 posts in the Irish Aid Office will be filled after completion of the permanent accommodation in November 2008.
The table below sets out the non-property costs incurred by this Department from 03 July 2008 to date.
|
Travel & Subsistence |
Training |
Postal & Telecom Expenses |
Office Machinery & related expenses |
Office Premises |
Total Expenditure since 03 July 2008 |
|
|
A.2 |
A.3 |
A.4 |
A.5 |
A.6 |
||
|
Expenditure since 3 July 2008 |
0 |
3,000 |
18,700 |
0 |
26,351.03 |
48,051.03 |
218 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism further to Parliamentary Question No 270 of 3 November 2007 the reason a group (details supplied) in County Roscommon were deemed ineligible under the sports capital grant scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31637/08]
Letters have issued to each of this year's unsuccessful applicants, including the one in question, setting out the reasons why they were not awarded a grant. As that letter pointed out, given the level of demand for funding and the amount of funding available under the Programme, it is not possible for my Department to allocate grants to every applicant. In this instance, the club failed to meet a qualifying condition of the Programme in that the proof of title provided was not sufficient.
As outlined in the reply to Parliamentary Question No 270 of 3 November 2007, in cases of existing registered leases of twenty-one years or more which are capable of supporting a charge, the applicant must provide evidence that the lease has been registered with the Property Registration Authority with a minimum of 15 years remaining. Evidence of lodging the lease for registration is not sufficient.
219 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding the transfer of the Bord Fáilte offices to Mallow, County Cork under the decentralisation programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31849/08]
As Fáilte Ireland has not been given early mover status by the DIG (Decentralisation Implementation Group), no timeframe has been given for their decentralisation. As such no staff transfers have taken place to date. However, Fáilte Ireland does have a decentralisation implementation plan in place that is kept under constant review and in that context, accommodation in Mallow for an advance group has been identified.
220 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32109/08]
The operational expenditure by the Department in respect of its decentralised offices at Fossa, Co. Kerry since 3 July is €56,370 this figure does not include salary costs of the staff located there. In that time, 3 staff members were transferred to the Department's temporary accommodation in Fossa, County Kerry bringing the total number now decentralised to 76. The purchase of properties is a matter for the Office of Public Works but I understand no properties were purchased during the period in question.
221 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the status of the new National Drugs Strategy; when it will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31576/08]
Work on developing the new National Drugs Strategy, to which I assume the Deputy is referring, has been ongoing throughout the year and is being overseen by a Steering Group, which is chaired by my Department. As part of the ongoing work, a comprehensive consultation process was undertaken in April – June 2008, which included:
15 public consultation meetings;
meetings with relevant Department and Agencies and key sectoral groups and organisations working in the drugs area;
meetings with appropriate focus groups, including problem drug users and young people at risk;
written (including electronic) submissions from interested parties; and
a Seanad meeting in June and a meeting this week with Arts, Sports Tourism, Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Oireachtas Committee to hear the views of elected representatives and at which the Deputy, herself, was present.
The consultants engaged to assist the Steering Group in its work are now finalising their report and this will be used to guide and inform the Group in their deliberations over the coming months. It is hoped that the new Drugs Strategy will be finalised and launched by early 2009.
222 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding the community services programme; if a new review date has been set for this programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31696/08]
223 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of applications received by his Department to date in 2008, on a county basis under the community projects with details for each heading of community halls and facilities, community services and community enterprise; when allocations will be made to each category of applicant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31697/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 222 and 223 together.
The Community Services Programme (CSP) supports a range of community businesses and social enterprises to deliver local services and employment opportunities for particularly disadvantaged groups across the State. At present, some 350 community-led organisations are being supported under the Programme to deliver a broad range of services and provide employment opportunities to over 1,660 people. The level of funding allocated to these projects to date in 2008 is of the order of €45m.
The Deputy will be aware that my Department took over responsibility for the operation of the CSP in 2006 when some 260 projects previously funded under FÁS's Social Economy Programme were transferred to the CSP. I am currently considering how this programme could be streamlined and made more effective.
The most recent call for proposals for the CSP closed at the end of June 2008. In total, 254 applications were received and they are currently being processed. Some 100 applications were received under the Community Halls and Facilities Strand, with 95 and 59 applications received under the Services and Enterprise Strands respectively.
I expect recommendations regarding funding under the various strands to be made to me over the coming period. The number of applications received under the recent call for each county is set out in the following table.
|
County |
Community Facilities |
Community Services |
Community Enterprise |
Total Applications |
|
Carlow |
1 |
2 |
2 |
5 |
|
Cavan |
3 |
2 |
0 |
5 |
|
Clare |
2 |
2 |
2 |
6 |
|
Cork |
11 |
7 |
4 |
22 |
|
Cork City |
2 |
0 |
1 |
3 |
|
Donegal |
5 |
5 |
4 |
14 |
|
Dublin 1 |
2 |
2 |
0 |
4 |
|
Dublin 3 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
Dublin 5 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
|
Dublin 8 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
4 |
|
Dublin 10 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
|
Dublin 11 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
4 |
|
Dublin 12 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
Dublin 13 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
|
Dublin 14 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
Dublin 15 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
|
Dublin 17 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
|
Dublin 22 |
1 |
3 |
1 |
5 |
|
Dublin 24 |
3 |
1 |
0 |
4 |
|
Dublin Co |
1 |
4 |
1 |
6 |
|
Galway |
5 |
4 |
3 |
12 |
|
Kerry |
6 |
5 |
2 |
13 |
|
Kildare |
2 |
2 |
1 |
5 |
|
Kilkenny |
2 |
2 |
2 |
6 |
|
Laois |
2 |
3 |
1 |
6 |
|
Leitrim |
2 |
3 |
1 |
6 |
|
Limerick |
5 |
5 |
3 |
13 |
|
Longford |
2 |
1 |
2 |
5 |
|
Louth |
2 |
2 |
2 |
6 |
|
Mayo |
6 |
5 |
4 |
15 |
|
Meath |
4 |
2 |
0 |
6 |
|
Monaghan |
3 |
2 |
2 |
7 |
|
Offaly |
2 |
2 |
2 |
6 |
|
Roscommon |
2 |
4 |
2 |
8 |
|
Sligo |
3 |
2 |
1 |
6 |
|
Tipperary |
6 |
1 |
4 |
11 |
|
Waterford |
4 |
4 |
4 |
12 |
|
Westmeath |
2 |
2 |
2 |
6 |
|
Wexford |
0 |
2 |
2 |
4 |
|
Wicklow |
2 |
4 |
0 |
6 |
|
Total |
100 |
95 |
59 |
254 |
Note: The breakdown across categories may change during the assessment process.
224 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects on a county basis that were allocated funding under the community services programme with details of the amount of funding allocated for each application category for the year 2006 and the year 2007. [31698/08]
The Community Services Programme (CSP) supports a range of community businesses and social enterprises to deliver local services and employment opportunities for particularly disadvantaged groups across the State. My Department took over responsibility for the operation of the CSP in 2006 when some 260 projects previously funded under FÁS's Social Economy Programme (SEP) were transferred to the Programme.
The amount of funds paid to each projects in 2006 and 2007 is set out in the following table. With respect to categorisation, the table shows projects that transferred from FÁS and those funded under the 2006 call for proposals under the CSP.
Given the broad range of services provided under the former SEP, the process of allocating groups to one of the current three strands under the Programme is still ongoing.
|
County |
Organisation Name |
Category |
2006 |
2007 |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Carlow |
Carlow Computer Refresh Ltd. |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
|
|
Carlow Rural Information Service |
*Ex-SEP |
271,908 |
269,638 |
|
|
Delta Centre Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
150,562 |
173,282 |
|
|
Killeshin Community Development |
Ex-SEP |
173,211 |
170,489 |
|
|
Carlow |
3 |
595,681 |
615,409 |
|
|
Cavan |
Drumlin House Training Centre |
2006 Call |
4,000 |
|
|
Tullacmongan Community RHC |
2006 Call |
1,000 |
||
|
Bailieborough ICT Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
112,912 |
121,613 |
|
|
CAMCAS East Cavan |
Ex-SEP |
167,652 |
145,056 |
|
|
CAMCAS North Monaghan |
Ex-SEP |
213,371 |
153,376 |
|
|
CAMCAS South Monaghan |
Ex-SEP |
142,801 |
157,912 |
|
|
CAMCAS West Cavan |
Ex-SEP |
167,981 |
117,109 |
|
|
Gallonray House |
Ex-SEP |
79,689 |
76,914 |
|
|
Rural Lift |
Ex-SEP |
71,111 |
109,536 |
|
|
Cavan |
8 |
956,516 |
885,516 |
|
|
Clare |
Radio Corca Baiscinn |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
|
|
Obair Environmental Services L |
Ex-SEP |
288,829 |
253,306 |
|
|
Obair Newmarket-on-Fergus |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
Burren Display Centre Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
104,082 |
93,680 |
|
|
Irish Seed Saver Assoc Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
143,845 |
147,410 |
|
|
Obair Childcare Services Ltd., |
Ex-SEP |
212,735 |
173,903 |
|
|
Shannon Social Economy Maintenance |
Ex-SEP |
154,695 |
139,204 |
|
|
Vandeleur Walled Garden Enterprise |
Ex-SEP |
154,696 |
143,173 |
|
|
Ennistymon Family RC Ltd |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
Killaloe/Ballina Family RC |
Ex-SEP |
4,000 |
||
|
Clare Accessible Transport |
Ex-SEP |
124,872 |
122,748 |
|
|
Clare |
11 |
1,185,754 |
1,081,424 |
|
|
Cork City |
Knocknaheeny Hollyhill YP |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
|
|
Mahon Family Resource Centre |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
Meitheal Mara |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
17,689 |
|
|
Ballyphehane Community assoc. |
Ex-SEP |
206,836 |
211,548 |
|
|
Cork Accessible Transport Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
105,623 |
|
|
Cork Gay Community Dev Co. |
Ex-SEP |
73,546 |
119,396 |
|
|
Cork Social Housing Services C |
Ex-SEP |
102,301 |
110,342 |
|
|
NCE Restaurant Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
20,954 |
||
|
Mayfield Community AC |
2006 Call |
3,000 |
18,689 |
|
|
Irish Wheelchair Association |
2006 Call |
11,760 |
||
|
Clar Seirbhisi Pobal |
2006 Call |
53,433 |
||
|
Cork City |
11 |
505,327 |
650,480 |
|
|
Cork County |
Lehanemore Community CC |
2006 Call |
26,251 |
|
|
West Cork Community Partnership |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
Duhallow area Rural Transport |
Ex-SEP |
125,470 |
112,185 |
|
|
IRD Duhallow Ltd Warmer Homes |
2006 Call |
38,842 |
||
|
Charleville Community. Care & Garden |
Ex-SEP |
153,821 |
156,397 |
|
|
Clonakilty Community Sports As |
Ex-SEP |
107,631 |
87,014 |
|
|
Clonakilty Enterprise Board Lt |
Ex-SEP |
235,447 |
373,135 |
|
|
Duhallow Community Food Service |
Ex-SEP |
181,295 |
216,338 |
|
|
RCCN Housing |
Ex-SEP |
232,380 |
232,023 |
|
|
Blackwater Region Leader Co |
2006 Call |
46,138 |
||
|
Bantry Rural Transport t/a Wes |
Ex-SEP |
126,113 |
135,871 |
|
|
Cork County |
11 |
1,164,157 |
1,424,194 |
|
|
Donegal |
Glenfinn Area Council |
2006 Call |
19,591 |
|
|
Greencastle CDCo |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
Malin Head Community Association |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
Muff Community Dev Co-Op Ltd |
2006 Call |
16,591 |
||
|
Action Inishowen CDP Ltd |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
SW Donegal Community Partnership |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
Aislann Chill Chartha |
Ex-SEP |
149,213 |
157,557 |
|
|
An tSean Bheairic |
Ex-SEP |
84,486 |
96,278 |
|
|
Clonmany Youth & Community Rec |
Ex-SEP |
100,454 |
101,245 |
|
|
Co. Donegal Railway Restoration |
Ex-SEP |
134,134 |
147,330 |
|
|
Creevy & district Community dev coo |
Ex-SEP |
109,536 |
104,891 |
|
|
Drimarone Development Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
116,260 |
98,356 |
|
|
Erne Enterprise Development Co |
Ex-SEP |
199,524 |
204,798 |
|
|
Finn Valley AC Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
244,995 |
259,442 |
|
|
Fort Dunree Military Museum Lt |
Ex-SEP |
92,502 |
100,228 |
|
|
Greencastle Community Childcare |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
101,239 |
|
|
Inishowen Community Radio |
Ex-SEP |
126,750 |
147,925 |
|
|
Inishowen Maritime Heritage Co |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
96,731 |
|
|
Inishowen Tourism Society Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
89,242 |
97,663 |
|
|
Ionad Teampall Chroine |
Ex-SEP |
97,361 |
77,843 |
|
|
L.A.T.C.H. Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
102,301 |
105,006 |
|
|
Milford & District Resource Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
73,088 |
100,727 |
|
|
Tullyarvan Mill Project |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
100,944 |
|
|
White Oaks Acorn Project Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
176,577 |
187,704 |
|
|
Donegal |
24 |
2,178,491 |
2,332,089 |
|
|
Dublin City |
Cherry Orchard School Development |
2006 Call |
1,000 |
|
|
Mediation Northside |
2006 Call |
4,000 |
||
|
Rialto Development Association |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
11,308 |
|
|
Ringsend & Irishtown Community Centre |
2006 Call |
4,000 |
||
|
South West Inner City Network |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
The Rediscovery Centre |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
Doras Bui |
Ex-SEP |
271,002 |
275,709 |
|
|
Rathmines Community Partnership |
2006 Call |
1,332 |
||
|
An Siol Millennium Holiday Trust |
Ex-SEP |
86,237 |
78,173 |
|
|
Ballyfermot Community Association |
Ex-SEP |
124,672 |
204,809 |
|
|
Ballyfermot Community Civic Centre |
Ex-SEP |
198,333 |
220,650 |
|
|
Ballyfermot I.T. Centre Social |
Ex-SEP |
137,308 |
157,098 |
|
|
Cara Park Community Services L |
Ex-SEP |
134,134 |
117,934 |
|
|
Carmichael Centre Social Economy |
Ex-SEP |
246,370 |
239,725 |
|
|
Cherry Orchard Facilities & Se |
Ex-SEP |
232,679 |
329,256 |
|
|
Community TV Network |
Ex-SEP |
72,107 |
78,162 |
|
|
Crumlin Citizens Information |
Ex-SEP |
73,122 |
106,989 |
|
|
Darndale Belcamp Village Centre |
Ex-SEP |
121,039 |
110,615 |
|
|
Elsa Security Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
452,459 |
493,587 |
|
|
Fatima Community Launderette |
Ex-SEP |
95,519 |
131,198 |
|
|
Harmony Media Enterprises Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
229,137 |
179,732 |
|
|
Ma Samba |
Ex-SEP |
40,325 |
66,979 |
|
|
Macro Building Management Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
222,659 |
232,106 |
|
|
National Lesbian & Gay Federation |
Ex-SEP |
73,546 |
119,396 |
|
|
NEDCSI Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
219,020 |
234,041 |
|
|
Northside Facilities Services |
Ex-SEP |
139,064 |
195,577 |
|
|
Northside Security Services Lt |
Ex-SEP |
195,750 |
304,176 |
|
|
Oscar Traynor Coaching & Development |
Ex-SEP |
124,672 |
167,429 |
|
|
St Josephs Horticulture Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
182,964 |
259,650 |
|
|
Terenure Enterprise Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
117,912 |
84,557 |
|
|
MPC Learning Tree Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
153,153 |
157,250 |
|
|
Vantastic Dial a Ride Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
367,572 |
447,437 |
|
|
Energy Action Attic Insulation |
Ex-SEP |
101,905 |
101,122 |
|
|
Dublin County Borough |
33 |
4,419,659 |
5,116,997 |
|
|
Dublin Fingal |
North Fingal Traveller Org |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
|
|
Co-operation Fingal |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
Anchor Childcare Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
137,844 |
153,231 |
|
|
Anchor Gold Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
53,564 |
92,431 |
|
|
Anchor Training Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
75,301 |
85,878 |
|
|
Balbriggan Enterprise Support |
Ex-SEP |
80,242 |
116,845 |
|
|
Baptec Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
115,608 |
131,123 |
|
|
Base Enterprise Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
170,485 |
248,099 |
|
|
Castleknock Parish Centre SEP |
Ex-SEP |
138,726 |
112,188 |
|
|
Hill Mill Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
101,249 |
|
|
Huntstown Family Resource Centre |
Ex-SEP |
177,479 |
231,789 |
|
|
Lusca Beo Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
26,420 |
38,620 |
|
|
Millbank Theatre Co. Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
22,420 |
37,620 |
|
|
Mulhuddart Community Centre |
Ex-SEP |
155,072 |
162,844 |
|
|
Rush FAC Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
70,932 |
3,846 |
|
|
Saving Waste IT Can Help SWITC |
Ex-SEP |
176,577 |
102,714 |
|
|
MPC Learning Tree Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
81,955 |
||
|
Celtic Sports Coaching Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
65,839 |
||
|
North Fingal Rural Transport L |
Ex-SEP |
87,258 |
113,505 |
|
|
Dublin Fingal |
19 |
1,645,456 |
1,820,937 |
|
|
Dublin South County |
Bawnogue Youth & Community Centre |
2006 Call |
8,130 |
|
|
Clondalkin Community Radio Co |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
Quarryvale Community & Leisure C |
2006 Call |
16,591 |
||
|
Rathcoole Community Council |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
Accessible Community Transport |
Ex-SEP |
282,513 |
341,946 |
|
|
Clondalkin Home Improvement |
Ex-SEP |
107,631 |
163,231 |
|
|
Clondalkin Recycling Initiative |
Ex-SEP |
225,867 |
238,821 |
|
|
Fettercairn Community Enterprise |
Ex-SEP |
152,476 |
157,170 |
|
|
HEAT Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
163,628 |
170,489 |
|
|
Limetree Community Childcare |
Ex-SEP |
86,269 |
89,713 |
|
|
Lucan Disability Action Group |
Ex-SEP |
144,017 |
182,029 |
|
|
Quarryvale Community Resource Centre |
Ex-SEP |
118,987 |
104,706 |
|
|
The Web Project |
Ex-SEP |
74,561 |
63,597 |
|
|
Tallaght Childcare Company |
Ex-SEP |
156,657 |
199,570 |
|
|
Dublin South County |
14 |
1,517,606 |
1,740,993 |
|
|
Dun Laoghaire Rathdown |
Southside Travellers Action |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
-160 |
|
Deilg Inish Theatre Co Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
173,767 |
169,195 |
|
|
L.I.F.T.S Community Project |
Ex-SEP |
56,504 |
90,545 |
|
|
Community Mediation Works |
Ex-SEP |
59,455 |
80,628 |
|
|
St Josephs Boys AFC |
Ex-SEP |
155,355 |
162,555 |
|
|
Dun Laoghaire Rathdown |
5 |
450,081 |
502,763 |
|
|
Galway City |
Ballybane Community Resource Centre |
Ex-SEP |
106,158 |
101,083 |
|
CLEAS |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
116,503 |
|
|
Mervue Utd AFC Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
192,185 |
145,181 |
|
|
Westside Age Inclusion |
Ex-SEP |
70,468 |
100,588 |
|
|
Galway City |
4 |
460,501 |
463,355 |
|
|
Galway County |
Gort Regional Alliance for CE |
2006 Call |
4,000 |
|
|
North East Galway Dev Co |
2006 Call |
2,500 |
||
|
Tearmann Eanna Teoranta |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
Athenry Arts & Heritage Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
101,095 |
|
|
Timpeallacht na nOilean |
Ex-SEP |
107,631 |
166,671 |
|
|
Glenamaddy Administration Services |
Ex-SEP |
131,895 |
128,398 |
|
|
OCDA Enterprise Limited |
Ex-SEP |
118,367 |
118,838 |
|
|
Oughterard Leisure Centre Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
73,058 |
78,173 |
|
|
Oughterard Credit Union Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
56,504 |
36,574 |
|
|
Oughterard Tourist & Development |
Ex-SEP |
70,468 |
76,927 |
|
|
SEG Community & Environmental |
Ex-SEP |
138,962 |
107,237 |
|
|
Galway Teleworking Co-Op Society |
Ex-SEP |
71,538 |
77,002 |
|
|
Clarenbridge Oyster Co-op Society |
Ex-SEP |
4,377 |
||
|
Foram Riachtanaisi SC |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
Galway County |
14 |
880,989 |
890,915 |
|
|
Kerry |
Camp Community Council |
2006 Call |
500 |
|
|
Comhchoiste Ghaeltacht UR |
2006 Call |
41,477 |
||
|
SW Kerry Women’s Assoc Ltd |
2006 Call |
500 |
||
|
North Kerry Together |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
Ballyheigue Social Economy Enterprise |
Ex-SEP |
180,318 |
298,109 |
|
|
Beehive Theatre Company Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
145,053 |
144,687 |
|
|
Cahirceveen Community Resource |
Ex-SEP |
92,667 |
98,433 |
|
|
Cunamh Energy Action Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
352,701 |
378,200 |
|
|
IRD Filemore Kells Co. Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
88,901 |
87,769 |
|
|
Kerry Flyer Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
196,222 |
205,108 |
|
|
Kerry Respite Care Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
265,634 |
261,057 |
|
|
Knocknagoshel Sports and Recreation |
Ex-SEP |
138,154 |
143,320 |
|
|
Listowel Community Council |
Ex-SEP |
201,444 |
212,632 |
|
|
North Kerry IT Network Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
197,799 |
206,199 |
|
|
Tralee Care Community Action L |
Ex-SEP |
264,377 |
254,717 |
|
|
Kerry |
15 |
2,123,270 |
2,334,708 |
|
|
Kildare |
Leixlip Youth Premises Group |
2006 Call |
14,591 |
|
|
Maynooth Community Council |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
Ar an Uisce Enterprise |
Ex-SEP |
177,339 |
127,876 |
|
|
Performing Arts Co-Op |
Ex-SEP |
70,468 |
62,684 |
|
|
Lullymore Heritage & Discovery |
Ex-SEP |
176,577 |
184,065 |
|
|
Naas Sports Group Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
101,867 |
100,280 |
|
|
Allenwood Community Development Assoc |
Ex-SEP |
155,591 |
155,847 |
|
|
Kildare |
7 |
683,843 |
645,343 |
|
|
Kilkenny |
Castlecomer Demesne Co Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
96,279 |
95,065 |
|
Gowran Parish Community. Enterprise |
Ex-SEP |
134,134 |
141,301 |
|
|
Community ICT |
Ex-SEP |
-2,172 |
||
|
Clogh Family Resource Centre C |
Ex-SEP |
66,690 |
61,019 |
|
|
Carlow Kilkenny & Tipperary Rural Transport |
Ex-SEP |
113,960 |
141,612 |
|
|
Kilkenny |
5 |
411,063 |
436,825 |
|
|
Laois |
Mountmellick Development Assoc |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
|
|
Mountmellick Dev Association Ltd |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
Portlaoise Community Action |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
Abbeyleix Heritage Company Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
70,468 |
78,119 |
|
|
Abbeyleix Pottery Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
26,428 |
-14,583 |
|
|
Erkina Dev Assoc Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
73,690 |
95,650 |
|
|
N.A.P.S. Community Services |
Ex-SEP |
147,420 |
149,588 |
|
|
Laois |
7 |
318,006 |
314,774 |
|
|
Leitrim |
Fenagh Development Company Ltd |
2006 Call |
3,000 |
|
|
Bee Park Resource Centre Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
100,987 |
|
|
Breffni Community Development |
Ex-SEP |
138,666 |
96,513 |
|
|
Childhood Days |
Ex-SEP |
70,468 |
106,670 |
|
|
Drumshanbo Community Childcare |
Ex-SEP |
112,912 |
118,488 |
|
|
Leitrim Animal Welfare |
Ex-SEP |
116,086 |
69,995 |
|
|
Leitrim Design House Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
99,225 |
92,680 |
|
|
Leitrim Organic Farmers Co-Op |
Ex-SEP |
86,560 |
86,937 |
|
|
Mohill Community Development A |
Ex-SEP |
79,455 |
78,173 |
|
|
MRD Marketing Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
84,479 |
116,283 |
|
|
North Leitrim Glens Development |
Ex-SEP |
74,897 |
99,172 |
|
|
Rossinver Community Development |
Ex-SEP |
95,983 |
166,524 |
|
|
The Organic Centre Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
130,414 |
116,510 |
|
|
Mohill Family Support Centre |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
3,464 |
|
|
Co Leitrim Partnership |
2006 Call |
38,842 |
||
|
Leitrim |
15 |
1,185,835 |
1,294,238 |
|
|
Limerick City |
Southhill Area Centre |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
|
|
Limerick Civil Trust |
Ex-SEP |
136,154 |
124,325 |
|
|
Northside Learning Hub Ltd |
2006 Call |
16,930 |
||
|
St Munchin’s Family RC |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
27,899 |
|
|
Limerick City |
4 |
141,154 |
171,154 |
|
|
Limerick County |
Desmond Ability Res Complex |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
|
|
WLCR FM Ltd — W Limerick CR |
2006 Call |
4,000 |
||
|
Dromcollogher & District Respite |
Ex-SEP |
189,494 |
193,568 |
|
|
Friars’ Gate Theatre |
Ex-SEP |
100,753 |
79,305 |
|
|
Mobile IT Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
101,061 |
100,203 |
|
|
RCCN Caring Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
240,242 |
308,476 |
|
|
Rural Bus |
Ex-SEP |
59,372 |
125,177 |
|
|
Limerick County |
7 |
690,921 |
815,729 |
|
|
Longford |
Employment Dev & Info Centre |
2006 Call |
58,433 |
|
|
Granard Area Action Group |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
Rathcline Sustainable PG |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
County Longford Tourism Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
124,672 |
31,138 |
|
|
Loughree Area Development Co-op |
Ex-SEP |
140,608 |
132,685 |
|
|
Longford Women’s Link |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
23,689 |
|
|
Longford |
6 |
270,280 |
252,945 |
|
|
Louth |
Cooley Development Association |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
|
|
Ait na Daoine CDP |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
42,490 |
|
|
DRT Ventures Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
114,207 |
124,331 |
|
|
Dundalk Media Centre |
Ex-SEP |
60,490 |
115,216 |
|
|
Holy Family Parish Community C |
Ex-SEP |
411,013 |
409,466 |
|
|
Lios na Nog Playgroup Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
176,624 |
277,268 |
|
|
Omeath District Development So |
Ex-SEP |
72,740 |
78,173 |
|
|
Ionad Na nDaoine an tSlanaithe |
Ex-SEP |
135,090 |
164,557 |
|
|
Stephenstown Pond Trust Ltd. |
Ex-SEP |
94,609 |
101,252 |
|
|
Drogheda Tele |
Ex-SEP |
112,912 |
120,437 |
|
|
Irish Wheelchair Association |
2006 Call |
3,000 |
||
|
Little Partners Crèche Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
181,542 |
213,574 |
|
|
Louth |
12 |
1,364,227 |
1,651,764 |
|
|
Mayo |
Cairde Le Cheile |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
48,842 |
|
Castlebar Social Services Ltd |
2006 Call |
29,251 |
||
|
Crossmolina Community Council |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
Foxford Sports & Leisure Centre |
2006 Call |
16,591 |
||
|
Ionad Ealaiona Iorrais Teo |
2006 Call |
23,322 |
||
|
Knockmore/ Rathduff ESD |
2006 Call |
58,638 |
||
|
Lohan Park Group Home |
2006 Call |
43,842 |
||
|
Seirbhisi Curam Cill Chomainn |
2006 Call |
57,237 |
||
|
Abbey Wreaths Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
162,191 |
158,950 |
|
|
Turasoireacht Acla |
Ex-SEP |
119,266 |
115,172 |
|
|
Ballina Heritage Costume Co Lt |
Ex-SEP |
182,604 |
169,469 |
|
|
Ballina Sports Centre Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
266,115 |
217,650 |
|
|
Ballintubber Abbey Trust Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
69,283 |
122,223 |
|
|
Bogwood Ireland Sculpture Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
95,527 |
|
|
Carrowmore-Lacken Dev Ass Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
102,302 |
109,410 |
|
|
Castlebar Care for the Aged So |
Ex-SEP |
220,121 |
238,105 |
|
|
CLAR I.C.H. Ltd. |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
100,784 |
|
|
Comhlucht Forbartha Turasoirea |
Ex-SEP |
165,402 |
126,157 |
|
|
Custom House Studios Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
93,455 |
101,164 |
|
|
Dolmen Clubhouse Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
90,911 |
101,252 |
|
|
Dolmen Rainbows Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
166,387 |
168,831 |
|
|
Enniscoe Community Developments |
Ex-SEP |
154,638 |
146,482 |
|
|
The Fr Patrick Peyton C S C |
Ex-SEP |
198,258 |
194,078 |
|
|
Killala Community Centre & Sports Complex |
Ex-SEP |
139,741 |
134,900 |
|
|
Killala Social Economy Plan Lt |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
99,516 |
|
|
Mayo Celtic Holidays Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
81,469 |
74,742 |
|
|
Moy Valley Business Consultancy |
Ex-SEP |
112,913 |
112,094 |
|
|
Mayo |
27 |
2,605,127 |
2,869,229 |
|
|
Meath |
Ballivor Community Childcare |
2006 Call |
56,433 |
|
|
Dunboyne Community Centre Association |
Ex-SEP |
162,522 |
170,489 |
|
|
Dunshaughlin Community Centre |
Ex-SEP |
176,577 |
191,616 |
|
|
Simonstown Gaels GFC |
Ex-SEP |
143,988 |
82,057 |
|
|
South Meath Social Economy Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
240,242 |
249,508 |
|
|
Meath Accessible Transport Project |
Ex-SEP |
165,966 |
204,179 |
|
|
Meath |
6 |
889,296 |
954,282 |
|
|
Monaghan |
Lisdoonan Recreation & DA |
2006 Call |
3,000 |
70,141 |
|
Truagh Development Association |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
Broomfield Aughnafarcon Development |
Ex-SEP |
129,072 |
190,887 |
|
|
Castleblaney Business Centre |
Ex-SEP |
155,355 |
165,639 |
|
|
Snipe Design & Training Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
155,355 |
170,065 |
|
|
Knockatallon Development Co Lt |
Ex-SEP |
144,744 |
158,945 |
|
|
Monaghan |
6 |
592,526 |
755,677 |
|
|
Offaly |
Edenderry Swimming Pool |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
|
|
North Offaly Development |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
Rhode Parish Enterprise Ltd |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
West Offaly Active Age Group |
2006 Call |
4,000 |
||
|
Tullamore Traveller Movement |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
Ballycommon Telework and Training |
Ex-SEP |
134,134 |
162,850 |
|
|
Birr Development Co Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
115,769 |
86,766 |
|
|
Clara & District Recreation Ass. |
Ex-SEP |
65,025 |
83,254 |
|
|
KDA Community Services Program |
Ex-SEP |
66,440 |
123,551 |
|
|
O’Carroll Consultants Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
74,377 |
76,552 |
|
|
St Mary’s Youth & Community Centre |
Ex-SEP |
120,972 |
135,219 |
|
|
West Offaly ICT |
Ex-SEP |
81,079 |
87,626 |
|
|
Birr Stage Guild Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
76,136 |
91,482 |
|
|
Offaly & Kildare Community Transport Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
119,233 |
133,928 |
|
|
Offaly |
14 |
853,165 |
999,228 |
|
|
Roscommon |
Frenchpark & Districts Childcare |
2006 Call |
53,785 |
|
|
Ros FM Radio Ltd |
2006 Call |
41,842 |
||
|
Arigna Mining Experience Co Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
158,757 |
253,788 |
|
|
Ballinagare Health & Leisure |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
100,918 |
|
|
CAIT Roscomain Limited |
Ex-SEP |
136,256 |
115,015 |
|
|
Croghan Organic Excel Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
106,720 |
129,171 |
|
|
Crossna Community Co-op Society |
Ex-SEP |
90,589 |
120,724 |
|
|
Tulsk Action Group Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
112,912 |
119,920 |
|
|
Kilbride Leisure Centre Company |
Ex-SEP |
96,660 |
118,774 |
|
|
Lisnamult Residents Association |
Ex-SEP |
240,242 |
248,193 |
|
|
Roscommon Home Services |
Ex-SEP |
112,912 |
111,869 |
|
|
Sesame Construction Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
181,579 |
288,362 |
|
|
St Asicus Social Centre |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
84,164 |
|
|
Tulsk Parish Services |
Ex-SEP |
107,128 |
122,793 |
|
|
Una Bhan Tourism Co-Operative |
Ex-SEP |
127,870 |
113,733 |
|
|
Roscommon |
15 |
1,655,005 |
2,023,051 |
|
|
Sligo |
Acorn Project Limited |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
96,027 |
|
Ballintrillick Environmental G |
Ex-SEP |
111,651 |
95,120 |
|
|
Co. Sligo Agricultural Museum |
Ex-SEP |
94,574 |
98,095 |
|
|
Co Sligo Heritage and Genealogy |
Ex-SEP |
123,523 |
96,448 |
|
|
The Irish History Company |
Ex-SEP |
82,978 |
83,443 |
|
|
Sligo |
5 |
504,415 |
469,133 |
|
|
Tipperary North |
Nenagh Community Network |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
|
|
County Tipperary Information S |
Ex-SEP |
121,226 |
113,983 |
|
|
Tipperary North |
2 |
123,226 |
113,983 |
|
|
Tipperary South |
Traveller Development Project |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
|
|
Ballingarry (Thurles) Community |
Ex-SEP |
155,355 |
154,304 |
|
|
Cahir Development Assoc |
Ex-SEP |
90,589 |
146,654 |
|
|
Cahir Park AFC (Development) L |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
97,110 |
|
|
Galloglass Theatre Company |
Ex-SEP |
69,955 |
65,551 |
|
|
Tipperary Technology Park |
Ex-SEP |
81,988 |
71,340 |
|
|
Tipperary South |
6 |
489,578 |
539,959 |
|
|
Waterford City |
Waterford Local EcoDev Co. |
2006 Call |
9,662 |
|
|
Access IT |
Ex-SEP |
144,974 |
123,974 |
|
|
Butler Community Centre |
Ex-SEP |
103,906 |
143,453 |
|
|
Waterford City |
3 |
248,881 |
277,089 |
|
|
Waterford County |
Ballyduff Community Council |
2006 Call |
15,859 |
|
|
Dungarvan Care of the Aged |
2006 Call |
8,943 |
||
|
People with Disabilities Ireland |
2006 Call |
3,000 |
||
|
WCIL |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
Suide Iol-Oidis Duin Aill Dunh |
Ex-SEP |
135,442 |
108,677 |
|
|
Lismore Heritage Centre & Tour |
Ex-SEP |
147,857 |
147,303 |
|
|
Tallow Social & Enterprise Development |
Ex-SEP |
86,566 |
101,249 |
|
|
Waterford County |
7 |
374,865 |
385,031 |
|
|
Westmeath |
Luain FM Athlone Community Radio |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
|
|
Women’s Community Project |
Ex-SEP |
112,912 |
122,209 |
|
|
1428 Active Retirement Club Lt |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
104,836 |
|
|
Help Link South Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
149,047 |
193,568 |
|
|
Kilbeggan Preservation & Development |
Ex-SEP |
54,404 |
53,167 |
|
|
Killucan Area Services Limited |
Ex-SEP |
88,770 |
115,427 |
|
|
Moate Community Dev Assoc Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
91,690 |
99,046 |
|
|
Mullaghmeen Development Group |
Ex-SEP |
78,484 |
86,907 |
|
|
Mullingar Employment Action Gr |
Ex-SEP |
136,839 |
143,850 |
|
|
Mullingar Homecare Service Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
112,253 |
123,971 |
|
|
Sweets Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
110,399 |
117,514 |
|
|
Tonnta Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
113,127 |
101,263 |
|
|
Westmeath Community Dev Ltd |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
Westmeath |
13 |
1,139,615 |
1,268,758 |
|
|
Wexford |
Hook Rural Tourism Ltd |
2006 Call |
18,859 |
|
|
TCDP Community Enterprise Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
152,330 |
146,190 |
|
|
CWCW Social Economy Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
255,365 |
262,628 |
|
|
Irish National Heritage Park T |
Ex-SEP |
121,284 |
45,235 |
|
|
John F Kennedy Trust |
Ex-SEP |
240,242 |
262,806 |
|
|
Kilmore Quay Community Dev. |
Ex-SEP |
182,691 |
108,362 |
|
|
National 1798 Visitor Centre |
Ex-SEP |
96,900 |
99,207 |
|
|
Rosslare Community Development |
Ex-SEP |
150,827 |
144,794 |
|
|
Senior Citizens Concern ltd |
Ex-SEP |
277,120 |
256,249 |
|
|
St Aidan’s Day Care Centre |
Ex-SEP |
298,488 |
261,723 |
|
|
Feachtas Ealaion Teoranta T/A |
Ex-SEP |
199,737 |
216,647 |
|
|
WCDA/Recycling 2000 |
Ex-SEP |
301,585 |
272,757 |
|
|
WINC Ltd. |
Ex-SEP |
96,992 |
119,247 |
|
|
Windmill Therapeutic Training U |
Ex-SEP |
200,773 |
216,608 |
|
|
Co Wexford Tourism Limited |
Ex-SEP |
81,079 |
69,412 |
|
|
Hook Heritage Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
176,577 |
193,463 |
|
|
Bui Bolg Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
14,437 |
||
|
Kilmuckridge Community & Family |
Ex-SEP |
107,229 |
101,252 |
|
|
West Wexford Partnership |
2006 Call |
3,000 |
||
|
Wexford |
19 |
2,953,656 |
2,798,439 |
|
|
Wicklow |
Glencree Peace & Reconciliation |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
|
|
Lakers Social & Recr Club Ltd |
2006 Call |
31,547 |
||
|
Arklow Community Enterprise |
2006 Call |
2,000 |
||
|
Wicklow Travellers Group |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
An Tairseach Teoranta |
Ex-SEP |
176,577 |
177,872 |
|
|
Bridge Visitor Centre Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
151,512 |
142,323 |
|
|
Brockagh Resource Centre |
Ex-SEP |
150,385 |
141,593 |
|
|
Easi Access Transport Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
134,134 |
183,440 |
|
|
Festina Lente Enterprises Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
323,875 |
328,302 |
|
|
Living Life Voluntary Counsel |
Ex-SEP |
202,126 |
203,491 |
|
|
The Marian Centre Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
187,188 |
199,998 |
|
|
Old Coolatin Country Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
121,902 |
118,917 |
|
|
Shadowbox Theatre Co. |
Ex-SEP |
52,030 |
17,340 |
|
|
Shuttle Knit Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
96,184 |
146,442 |
|
|
Wicklow County Tourism Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
90,645 |
97,488 |
|
|
Wicklow Enterprise Park Ltd |
Ex-SEP |
137,339 |
147,247 |
|
|
Bray Adult Education |
2006 Call |
5,000 |
||
|
Bray Older Persons’ Services |
2006 Call |
57,701 |
||
|
Wicklow |
18 |
1,828,896 |
2,005,701 |
|
|
Social Economy Solutions RISE |
Ex-SEP |
46,500 |
||
|
Other miscellaneous grant |
46,500 |
|||
|
Total |
377 |
37,407,067 |
40,948,612 |
Notes:
Ex-SEP indicates those projects that transferred from FÁS.
A negative amount in the table indicates a refund to the Programme where, for example, the project did not pursue their application or where an application was withdrawn.
Not all of the applicants that received development grants under the 2006 call were offered contracts.
* Ex-SEP — Denotes former social economy project.
225 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32111/08]
From a total of 140 Departmental staff due to decentralise to Charlestown, Co. Mayo, 101 staff have now relocated to interim accommodation in Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo. In the period 3 July 2008 to date, 3 staff members took up duty in Tubbercurry and €83,060 was incurred in respect of equipping and fitting-out of premises at that location. No properties were purchased by OPW in that period on behalf of my Department. My Department had already fulfilled its commitment to relocate 10 posts to Na Forbacha, Co. Galway, prior to 3 July 2008.
226 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if her Department has informed pensioners that the use of pension books is being discontinued and will be replaced with a card system; her views on the difficulties this will pose for elderly people who may find adapting to a new system difficult; if she has made provisions within this new system for agents to continue to collect weekly pension payments on behalf of pensioners who are unable to do so themselves; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31580/08]
The Department supports government policy which aims to facilitate the greater use of electronic payment systems in the economy in the interests of developing a world class payments environment in Ireland. Our payment strategy is designed to ensure that cost effective arrangements are in place for making payments to social welfare customers by using a range of payment options and to ensure that new payment facilities are made available to customers as they arise.
The Department is implementing a three year strategy to change paper based payment instruments to electronic payments at post offices, banks and other financial institutions on a phased basis. Currently some 80% of customers receive their payment electronically direct to their post office or financial institution.
A range of measures are in place to inform customers being paid using pension books at post offices of the change in their payment method and to address any concerns they may have. Each person is being informed by personal letter of the change in their payment arrangement. A social services card, along with a covering letter explaining how to use the card, is also being issued to them. Posters are being displayed in all post offices, citizen's information centres and throughout the Department's local office network. In addition, the change from paper to electronic payment is a key element of all public information events, seminars and information briefings being carried out by the Department this year.
An Post and the Irish Postmaster's Union (IPU) are committed to assisting customers to adapt to using a social services card to collect their payment. Stakeholders and customer groups representing the elderly, people with disabilities, the unemployed and other groups have been consulted and have welcomed the move to electronic payment at post offices.
The Department and An Post have put arrangements in place to enable the person who collect their payment by card to have an agent appointed if that becomes necessary. A person can apply to have an agent appointed in the normal way and details of the agents name and address, will be sent electronically to An Post every week. This facility has been operational since June 2008 and is working satisfactorily. I am confident that the range of measures to inform customers of the change to electronic payment will ensure a smooth transition for them.
227 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the funding received by MABS in 2007. [31584/08]
228 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if MABS have reported an increase in the numbers attending their advice services to date in 2008; and if her attention has been drawn to the funding or capacity shortages being experienced by the body. [31585/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 227 and 228 together.
The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) provides assistance to people who are over-indebted and need help and advice in coping with debt problems. There are 53 independent companies nation-wide operating the service. Many voluntary and statutory bodies such as the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, the Community Welfare Service, the Credit Union Movement, Citizens Information Centres, Centres for the Unemployed and local authorities work closely with the programme.
In 2007, €17.64 million was provided to fund the service. To end of August 2008, a total of 10,800 new clients have approached the MABS, an increase of 2,500 clients over the same period in 2007. The growth in demand for the service can be mainly attributed to the increase in the availability of credit and to the quality of the service provided by MABS advisors. The MABS is highly regarded and successful in meeting the needs of its clients. In 2008, €17.95 million was provided to assist the MABS in dealing with the increased workload.
229 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the annual budget allocated to the Combat Poverty Agency. [31586/08]
The Department's 2008 Grant-In-Aid provision for the Combat Poverty Agency is €4.568m. The Agency's 2008 budget is broken down as follows; Administration and Accommodation €0.685m, Board and Staff €1.81m, Community Projects €0.913m, Communications €0.605m, Research €0.557m and other sundry expenditure provisions €0.085m. Sundry income amounts to €0.087m.
230 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kildare has not been provided with travel expenses in relation to a hospital appointment for their daughter who is seriously ill; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31664/08]
Under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which is administered on behalf of the Department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive, an exceptional needs payment (ENP) may be made to help meet an essential, once-off cost which the applicant is unable to meet out of his/her own resources. There is no automatic entitlement to this payment. Each application is determined by the Executive based on the particular circumstances of the case.
The Executive has advised that it has no record of an application for an exceptional needs payment from the person concerned. The Executive has further advised that the person concerned should contact the community welfare officer at her local health centre if she wishes to discuss any entitlements she may have under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.
231 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved and granted jobseekers allowance; and if this case will be immediately reviewed as the applicant does not have any self-employment income any longer. [31844/08]
The person concerned applied for a jobseeker's allowance payment on 15 July 2008. His jobseeker's allowance claim was disallowed from 15 July 2008 on the grounds that his means exceeded the maximum amount payable in his case. He appealed the Deciding Officer's decision and his claim has been forwarded to a Social Welfare Inspector for further examination. On completion of inquiries a decision will be made as soon as possible and he will be notified of the outcome.
Under Social Welfare legislation decisions in relation to claims must be made by Deciding Officers and Appeals Officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
232 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will examine the case of a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow; if and when she will address the anomalous position of persons in such circumstances; the specific provisions in primary or secondary legislation which permits the State to deduct PRSI under class A1; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31856/08]
This case pertains to an individual who, being aged 64, working in Ireland, and in receipt of a UK Old Age Pension, is querying the PRSI Class at which she is liable to make contributions.
As specified in the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005, Section 12 (1) (a), ‘. . . every person who, being over the age of 16 years and under pensionable age, is employed in any of the employments specified in Part 1 of Schedule 1, not being an employment specified in Part 2 of that Schedule, shall be an employed contributor for the purposes of this Act'.
Under Section 2 of the Act ‘pensionable age' is defined as ‘the age of 66 years'. As the individual in question is aged under 66 she is liable, as an employed contributor, to make Class A contributions, with the relevant sub-class being decided by the level of weekly earnings.
The individual has suggested that she should be liable to pay Class J contributions. However, liability to pay Class J contributions, as set down in Article 88 of Statutory Instrument 312 of 1996, pertains to ‘an employment specified in Part 1 of the First Schedule to the Principal Act, where the employee has attained pensionable age'.
It is clear from the above that she is not liable to pay Class J. The fact that she is in receipt of a UK Old Age Pension, which is based on a retirement age of 60, is irrelevant in this regard as eligibility is determined by age and employment status, rather than entitlement to a payment from another Member State. Therefore no anomaly exists in relation to this matter.
233 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the national average time for family mediation services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31857/08]
The Family Support Agency has responsibility for the Family Mediation Service, a free, professional and confidential service for couples, married and non-married, who have decided to separate or divorce and who together want to negotiate the terms of their separation or divorce with the help of a trained mediator. Family mediation assists separating couples to look at the resources and options open to them and to reach an agreement that meets the interests of both and the interests of their children.
There are 21 professionally trained mediators working for the service, all accredited by the Mediators Institute Ireland, the professional accrediting body for mediators in Ireland.
Demand for the Family Mediation Service has always been strong and the expansion of the Service from 2 offices in 1997 to its present number of 16 reflects this Government's commitment to provide a nationwide service.
The service assisted 1,497 couples in 2007. Waiting times for an appointment at a Family Mediation Centre depends on the office and the nature and number of mediation sessions required by couples availing of the service. On average the waiting time is 4 months. If people are able to take up a cancellation at short notice their wait would be shortened.
The average number of mediation sessions that couples attend range from three to seven. This depends on the complexity of their issues, level of conflict, and the availability of clients for regular appointments, among other factors.
234 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she has received submissions from the Carer’s Association identifying the ongoing needs of carers and the importance of the service they provide in relieving the burden on hospitals and nursing homes; if it is intended to improve the operating conditions of the scheme with a view to acknowledging the social and economic role of the carer in a modern society; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31779/08]
The development of a National Carers' Strategy is a key Government commitment in both the national partnership agreement "Towards 2016" and the Programme for Government. An inter-departmental/agency working group is currently developing the strategy. The group is chaired by the Department of An Taoiseach with the secretariat provided by my Department.
Developing the strategy involves a wide ranging consultation process which includes consultation with other government departments and bodies not represented on the working group. In addition, a request for submissions from the public was published in regional newspapers. There was a good response from individuals and organisations, including the Carers Association, and the submissions received are being examined.
The commitment to the development of a National Carers' Strategy also includes a commitment to appropriate consultation with the social partners. An update in relation to the strategy was provided to the social partners plenary session in February. The first of two consultation meetings with the social partners was held on 8 May 2008.
"Towards 2016" commits the Department to hosting an annual consultation meeting of carer representative groups and relevant departments and agencies. Such a meeting was held on 23 January 2008. Representatives of 12 groups, including the Carers Association, and 9 government departments and bodies attended. The theme was the National Carers' Strategy and groups were given an opportunity to comment on the draft terms of reference and to raise other issues considered relevant in the context of the strategy. The issues raised in this report along with key issues raised in the consultation process will be considered as part of the development of the strategy.
In addition, to correspondence I have received from the Carers Association directly, I have also received representations from a number of colleagues on behalf of the organisation.
I was pleased to launch the report "Listening to Carers, Report on a Nationwide Carer Consultation" produced by the Carers Association in partnership with Caring for Carers Ireland and Care Alliance on 30th of June this year.
235 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number and percentage of workers who make a PRSI contribution and who also benefit from the PRSI ceiling above which no PRSI is paid. [31852/08]
The number of contributors in the social insurance system reached some 2,624,000 in 2006. Of these, 2,436,757 workers, or some 92.78% paid PRSI at Classes that normally attract a social insurance liability. These figures represent the most recently available end-of-year returns.
The current PRSI ceiling for employees stands at €50,700 per annum – above which no social insurance contributions are paid. Current figures indicate that the number of workers who earn in excess of the ceiling stands at 324,720.
236 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32119/08]
Since the commencement of the Decentralisation programme in my Department, quarterly returns have been submitted to the Central Decentralisation Unit within the Department of Finance detailing expenditure under the heading of non-property costs.
Table 1 below sets out the expenditure incurred since 3 July 2008 for the locations to which my Department is committed under the programme of decentralisation. The total outturn for non-property costs for this period is € 8171.
Table 2 below sets out the expenditure incurred by my Department from 3 July 2008 to date under the 5 subheads associated with non-property costs.
|
Location |
Buncrana |
Carrick On Shannon |
Donegal |
Drogheda |
Carrickmacross |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2008 3 July to date |
3,165 |
5,006 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
8,171 |
*The breakdown of figures between decentralisation locations is provisional.
|
Location |
A3 |
A4 |
A5 |
A6 |
A7 |
||
|
Subhead Description |
Travel and Subsistence |
Incidental Expenses |
Postal & Telecom Expenses |
Office Machinery & Other Office Supplies and Related Services |
Office Premises |
Consultancy Services |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2008 3 July to date |
4,515 |
82 |
3,574 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
8,171 |
The Office of Public Works (OPW), who is charged with securing accommodation for the Programme of Decentralisation, has advised that no properties have been purchased from 3 July 2008 to date.
Since 3 July 2008, 4 posts have relocated to Carrick-on-Shannon under the Programme of Decentralisation. In the same period, 16 officers have transferred to other offices of the Department to fill vacancies created by the current programme and 11 staff members transferred to other Government Departments for the purpose of their decentralisation programmes.
In addition, since 3 July 2008, 25 staff have been assigned to the Department in preparation for the relocation of business units to Buncrana and are currently based in Dublin and Letterkenny, pending the completion of accommodation in Buncrana.
237 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Defence the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32112/08]
There has been no expenditure on decentralisation by my Department in the period since 3rd July.
The Deputy will be aware that the Government decision on decentralisation provides for the transfer of my Department's Dublin-based civil service staff, together with a number of military personnel, to Newbridge, Co. Kildare and for the decentralisation of the Defence Forces Headquarters (DFHQ) to the Curragh.
In relation to the Newbridge project, site acquisition, building construction and fit-out costs are borne on the Vote of the Public Works (OPW). I understand that the total estimated cost of the project is approximately €30 million.
While close to 90% of clerical/administrative staff are now in place in preparation for the move to Newbridge, no staff have been moved to date. The building is under construction and is expected to be ready for occupation by December 2009.
In relation to the decentralisation of DFHQ to the Curragh, a state-owned site in the Curragh has been chosen for a new building. The total cost and timescale for completion of the project will be determined by the outcome of the proposed tender competition which is being prepared by OPW and which is subject to approval of the necessary funding. Expenditure on the project will be borne on the Vote for the OPW.
238 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Defence if he will request Coiste An Asgard to use the Jeanie Johnston as a sail training vessel to replace Asgard II; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31818/08]
It is too early at this stage to make any decisions in relation to the possible replacement of Asgard II.
Arrangements are being made at the moment to visit the site where Asgard II sank on the 11th September where a survey will be undertaken to establish her status. No decisions will be made until the results of this survey are made available and examined in detail.
239 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding tenders for a proposed housing development in County Kildare; when his Department received recommendations from the local authority concerned in relation to this tender; the reasons for the delays which have arisen to date with the proposal; the reason it is not possible to renegotiate the preferred tender having regard to the urgent demand for housing that exists in the area and the considerable delays which will inevitably ensue if the entire tender process is to be recommenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31589/08]
My Department approved a tender for this project on 29 August 2007. The local authority concerned, however, were unable to progress the matter until mid 2008.
In the interim, under the Government's Construction Procurement Reform Process introduced to help address concerns about the extent of cost overruns on public works contracts, new contract procedures came into force. These new contract procedures were announced in October 2006 and, following a generous transition period, were fully implemented from 13 February 2008.
On 7 August 2008 my Department informed the local authority that these new procedures are applicable in the case of this project. This matter was discussed further on 14 August last at a meeting between Council officials and my Department, and it was agreed that the new contract procedures must be complied with. Should the local authority choose to re-tender for the project, the use of the new form of contract will provide greater certainty in terms of cost and delivery of the project and ensure that best value for money is achieved.
240 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received a letter from the head of finance of Longford County Council setting out in great detail, the inequity that would arise from a possible decision by his Department to apply a simple uniform percentage increase or decrease from the local government grant allocation to all local authorities for 2009, which would result in the smaller authorities such as Longford and Westmeath being penalised severely; if he will give an assurance that this will not take place and that such authorities will be protected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31819/08]
My Department has received the correspondence referred to in the question.
General purpose grants from the Local Government Fund are my Department's contribution to local authorities towards the cost of providing their day to day services. Local authorities' cost and income bases vary significantly from one another and calculating an appropriate distribution of general purpose grants is complex. For the purposes of allocations, a range of factors is taken into account, including each local authority's expenditure on, and income from, each service, the overall amount of funding available for distribution and the need to provide each local authority with a reasonable allocation to provide an acceptable level of services for its customers.
I will be announcing general purpose funding allocations for 2009 later this Autumn.
241 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the recent supplementary funding made available to Clare County Council’s housing section; the schemes to which this funding applies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31823/08]
A combined allocation of €1,191,450 was made to Clare County Council earlier this year for the purposes of the Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability, Mobility Aids Grant Scheme, and Housing Aid for Older People Scheme.
My Department has received a request from Clare County Council for additional funding under these schemes and the Council was recently notified of an additional Exchequer allocation of €500,000 towards their operation this year.
242 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received a report from Kerry County Council regarding the bog slide at Macca Lyracrompane, County Kerry; if he will make a special compensation fund available to help these families affected by the slide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31825/08]
I understand that Kerry County Council is carrying out an investigation into the causes of this bog slide. The National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department is keeping in close touch with the local authority and the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board in relation to the destruction of salmon, spawning grounds, otter habitat and the possibility of further downstream damage due to silt movement.
While I sympathise with the people whose livelihoods have been affected by the bog slide, my Department does not have any form of compensation fund to assist in such circumstances.
243 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if planning permission is required by a farmer who quarries on their own land in order to supply stone to create internal roadways and they do not supply stone to others outside of their own farm holding; if they can draw stone from one farm to an outfarm that they already own; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31827/08]
Under the Planning and Development Acts 2000-2006 and the associated regulations, all development commenced on or after 1 October 1964 requires planning permission unless specifically exempted and, for this purpose, "development" means the carrying out of any works on, in, over or under land or the making of any material change in the use of any structures or other land. While certain developments are exempted under section 4 of the Act and Part 2 and Schedule 2 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, as amended, there is no specific exemption for quarrying.
Section 5 of the 2000 Act contains a provision enabling any person to seek a declaration from the relevant planning authority as to whether an activity is development or exempted development in any particular case: the planning authority's decision in the matter be referred to An Bord Pleanála for review in accordance with Section 5(3) of the Act.
244 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will issue approval for the provision of a new library premises in Kildare Town, which has been awaited for more than 30 years; when work on fitting out the new premises will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31840/08]
My Department has been engaged in consultations with the library authority and An Chomhairle Leabharlanna regarding library development in Kildare Town for some time. While the issues surrounding this proposal are complex, my Department is currently in further contact with the local authority in an effort to finalise the matter and I hope to be in a position to make a decision in the near future.
The day to day management of any library project, including proposed timescales of construction, are a matter for the local authority in question.
245 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received submissions from Kildare County Council with regard to the commencement of a remedial scheme for St. Patrick’s Park, Rathangan; when such a scheme may be undertaken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31841/08]
My Department is currently seeking applications for new remedial works projects to be undertaken and funded over the next three years. I understand that Kildare County Council will be submitting a project at St Patrick's Park, Rathangan for consideration under this call for proposals. The closing date for project submissions is 30 October 2008.
246 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will approve the funding for the provision of a sewerage scheme at Freshford Johnstown and at Goresbridge in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31874/08]
The Freshford Johnstown Goresbridge Sewerage Scheme is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009 as a scheme to advance through planning, at an estimated cost of €7.9 million.
My Department's examination of Kilkenny County Council's Preliminary Report for the scheme will be completed shortly.
247 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised, specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32115/08]
The Office of Public Works (OPW) has responsibility for acquiring property under the Decentralisation programme. It has advised that no property has been purchased on behalf of my Department in the period 3 July 2008 to date. The OPW continues to oversee development of the Department's new offices in Wexford town however and it is expected that these will be ready for occupation by the Department in the first quarter of 2009. An advance office has been operational in Wexford since 25 June 2007 and 44 staff are assigned to it.
The total expenditure by my Department in relation to the decentralisation programme for the period amounted to €11,700. This expenditure related to the ongoing maintenance of the advance office.
248 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will review the destocking requirements of the hill sheep farmers in the Connemara area in view of the fact that farmers believe there is no need for such measures and that they will only lead to under-grazing of the lands. [31614/08]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 1469 of 24 September 2008.
249 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government about the additional funding that has been requested by Limerick County Council from his Department to meet the costs of works that have been undertaken and are under way in the Newcastle West area following flooding on 1 August 2008; the funding made available to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31617/08]
No application for such funding has been received in my Department.
250 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the regulations that apply to the eligibility of employees of local authorities to contest local elections; if different rules apply to administrative and non-administrative staff; if changes in regulation have been made since the last elections which will affect already-elected members; if further changes are envisaged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31628/08]
Under the Local Government Act 2001, local authority employees whose maximum remuneration does not exceed the maximum remuneration for the grade of Clerical Officer may become members of a local authority. The Act makes no distinction between administrative and non-administrative staff.
Changes in regulation have not been made since the last elections which would affect already-elected members. No further changes are envisaged.
251 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when an application for a thatching grant will be finalised for a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31727/08]
Provisional approval to a grant of €3,810 issued in this case on 21 July 2008.
252 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status regarding the purchase of bog lands (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the reason for delay in the processing of this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31729/08]
I understand that the Chief State Solicitor's Office has made requisitions on title from the vendor's solicitor and is awaiting a response.
253 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status in relation to the purchase of bog lands (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the reason for the delay in the processing of this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31743/08]
I expect that contracts in this case will be executed in the near future.
254 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if funding will continue to be available to agencies such as the safe home programme in County Mayo, through which accommodation has been secured in Ireland for up to 900 returning Irish emigrants, which has given advice and support to thousands more, and which has been funded since 2001; if he will give an assurance that the funding will continue in 2009 and beyond; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31820/08]
My Department provides funding towards the administrative and general expenses of certain not-for-profit organisations and bodies which provide information, research, training or support services in the area of housing. Applications for funding in 2008, including an application from the promoters of the Safe Home Programme, are being examined at present. I intend to announce details of funding allocations very shortly.
Decisions on funding for 2009 and later years can only be considered in light of the resources available each year and the level of competing demands for those resources.
255 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of vacant houses in the possession of Cork County Council and Mallow Town Council, with a breakdown by location of these vacant homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31847/08]
The management of local authority housing stock and the allocation of such stock is a matter for each housing authority. Local authorities provide information on the proportion of stock that is vacant at the end of each year, and this information is collated and published as part of the Annual Service Indicators in Local Authorities Report. Copies of the 2007 report are available from the Local Government Management Services Board and may be downloaded from their website, www.lgmsb.ie.
256 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the plans he has regarding the clean up of a site (details supplied) in County Tipperary; if and when the resources necessary to complete the clean up will be made available; if that amount will exceed the €10.6 million allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31764/08]
258 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding a site (details supplied) in County Tipperary; if the works being carried out are to schedule; the costs of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31742/08]
260 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the spending and work that will take place on the clean up of a site (details supplied) in County Tipperary in 2008, 2009 and 2010; the work that will be completed in that time; the procurement procedures being used for the work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31765/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 256, 258 and 260 together.
As I indicated in my reply to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 428 and 429 of 4th June 2008, and to Parliamentary Question No. 38 of 10 July 2008, Planning Permission was granted by North Tipperary County Council (NTCC) on 17th September 2007, for the rehabilitation work at the Gortmore Tailings Management Facility. A tender notice was advertised in the EU Journal on 21st January 2008, following which seven companies were short-listed and invited to submit a tender for the first phase construction work of the rehabilitation works. Tenders were received from all seven companies on 21st April 2008 and subsequently assessed by the consultants employed by NTCC to design and supervise the project. On 21st May 2008, the Department authorised NTCC to issue a letter of intention to accept the tender of a construction firm for the first phase of the remediation works at the Gortmore site, at Silvermines, subject to the contractor producing insurances, bond and tax clearance. These procurement procedures were in accordance with the latest guidelines issued by the Department of Finance for Government Departments and Local Authorities. These works commenced in July.
This complex project is being carried out on a phased basis and these initial works are planned to be completed in November 2008. The works planned for 2009 and 2010 at the Gortmore site include further capping and associated works as well as vegetation and upgrading of wetland areas. Further detailed planning and design work for Gortmore and the other sites involved in the project are still under active consideration.
The project managers for the project have terminated their involvement as project managers. An arrangement has been put in place to ensure project management continuity.
As regards cost, as indicated previously, the sum of €10.6m allocated by Government in June 2005 to remediate the former mining sites in the Silvermines area was on the basis of the earlier conceptual study. On the basis of the latest information, it is clear that the cost of remediation of all the sites will exceed the provision of €10.6m. The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources expects to brief the Government on the revised costs of the project in the near future and on its implications for future annual funding for the project.
257 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised, specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32110/08]
The Government's Decentralisation Programme involves the relocation of my Department's headquarters to Cavan and the relocation of three bodies under its aegis, namely Sustainable Energy Ireland to Dundalk, Ordnance Survey Ireland to Dungarvan and the Central Fisheries Board to Carrick-on-Shannon.
Decentralisation related property costs in respect of my Department and its agencies are funded from the Office of Public Works (OPW) vote. It is my understanding that no decentralisation related properties have been purchased by the OPW from 3rd July 2008 to date.
One staff member from my Department relocated from Dublin to Cavan during this period, bringing the total working there to 56.
259 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress on the national broadband scheme; when it will achieve 100% coverage in north Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31753/08]
The Invitation to Tender (ITT) for the National Broadband Scheme issued on 25 August 2008. The closing date for receipt of tenders is 6 October 2008. The NBS contract is scheduled to be signed in November 2008, with rollout of the services due to begin as soon as possible thereafter, subject to agreement with the chosen service provider.
The National Broadband Scheme (NBS) will provide broadband services to areas that are currently unserved including any unserved areas in North Tipperary and will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband are met.
261 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will establish a statutory compensation tribunal for ex-coal miners who have suffered injury and ill health due to the failure of various regulatory regimes to police the health and safety provisions as contained in the Mines and Quarries Act, 1965 (details supplied). [31826/08]
The question of health and safety at mines under the Mines and Quarries Act 1965, is a matter for the Health and Safety Authority, which is under the aegis of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. I have no statutory authority to establish a specific scheme or tribunal to provide for compensation to people suffering health problems as a consequence of working in underground mines and have no resources from which to fund such a scheme.
The question of assistance to former miners, or any other type of employees, who suffer health problems as a consequence of working conditions in the past is, primarily, a matter between them and their employers, and in so far as the State is concerned, of disability or occupational injuries benefit entitlement under the social welfare code.
262 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the advice and reassurance regarding the safety of their information that he will provide to individual beneficiaries of schemes funded or co-funded by the EU following the publication of this personal data on his Department’s website; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31620/08]
In accordance with the requirements of Council Regulation (EC) 1290/2005, my Department is required to publish the names and address and information to amounts paid under EU funded or co-funded schemes. Addresses will be published in the form of county and the address line immediately above county as supplied by the payee to my Department. Further personal information will not be released and will be held by my Department under the highest standards of confidentiality and data security. I understand that the EU legislation was developed in consultation with the European Data Protection Commissioner. Before proceeding with the arrangements for publication, my Department also consulted with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner in Ireland. I am satisfied, therefore, that the beneficiaries' have been protected under existing legislation.
263 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of REP scheme participants in each REP scheme in each county of the western region. [31623/08]
The following is the number of applications in each REPS Scheme in the western region:
|
County |
REPS 2 |
REPS 3 |
REPS 4 |
|
Mayo |
423 |
5,249 |
1,021 |
|
Galway |
448 |
5,294 |
1,006 |
264 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of appeals of REP scheme decisions in the western region made to the Galway office in each of the past five years; and the number of appeals that were successful and the numbers refused. [31624/08]
The number of appeals of REPS decisions received from the western region by the Agriculture Appeals Office, following an unsuccessful local appeal, and the number of these appeals that were successful, in each of the last 5 years is in the following table. No breakdown of local appeals is available.
|
Year |
2007 |
2006 |
2005 |
2004 |
2003 |
|
Number of appeals |
57 |
62 |
55 |
64 |
72 |
|
Number of successful appeals |
13 |
13 |
11 |
14 |
22 |
265 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of persons who appealed their REP scheme penalty to the Appeals Office in Portlaoise following an unsuccessful appeal to the Galway Regional Office; the number of those appeals that were ultimately successful with details on a county basis in each of the past five years. [31625/08]
Please see the following table for a breakdown of the information requested in relation to the Rural Environment Protection Scheme appeals received in the Galway Regional Office for years 2003 to 2007.
|
Year/County |
Received |
Successful |
|
2007 |
||
|
Galway |
36 |
7 |
|
Mayo |
21 |
6 |
|
2006 |
||
|
Galway |
35 |
5 |
|
Mayo |
27 |
8 |
|
2005 |
||
|
Galway |
31 |
7 |
|
Mayo |
24 |
4 |
|
2004 |
||
|
Galway |
35 |
6 |
|
Mayo |
29 |
8 |
|
2003 |
||
|
Galway |
42 |
14 |
|
Mayo |
30 |
8 |
266 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will provide a progress report on the transfer of his Department offices under the decentralisation programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31845/08]
The Government decision on the decentralisation of my Department is that some 600 headquarters staff will move to Portlaoise, the local offices in Cork city will move to Fermoy, involving some 100 staff; and the laboratories in Cork and Limerick will move to Macroom, involving up to 100 staff. The move of the Fisheries function of my Department to Clonakilty, involving over 80 staff, is now substantially complete.
My Department's original Decentralisation Implementation Plan allowed for a phased movement to Portlaoise. The 2005, 2006 and 2007 advance phases of decentralisation to Portlaoise were completed on schedule. There has been an increase of some 300 full-time posts to bring the total posts in Portlaoise to almost 500 since the programme began. To date, the Department has met its targets as set out in its original plan. The initial estimate for completion of the plan was 2008, to coincide with the availability of the permanent accommodation. The Office of Public Works (OPW) announced last December that a consortium, the Macquarie Partnership, has won the tender for the project to build the permanent offices in Portlaoise (as part of a public private partnership including offices in Mullingar and Carlow) and planning permission for the new building has now been granted. A revision to the Department's Decentralisation Implementation Plan is now being considered, to reflect the changes to the building timetable and the progress so far, as well as the evolving operating environment. An additional advance phase has been agreed and planning and preparations for this phase are currently underway.
Separate implementation plans for Fermoy and Macroom are in place. The plans allow for a phasing of the recruitment of staff but no physical move until the permanent accommodation is in place. The acquisition of property is primarily a matter for OPW and they have supplied the following details of the site acquisition at the four locations.
|
Location |
Site Area |
Status |
|
Portlaoise |
9.13 acres |
Purchase completed in 2007 |
|
Clonakilty |
3.1 acres |
Purchase completed in 2005 |
|
Macroom |
Site of 5 acres identified; planning issue on appeal to An Bord Pleanála |
Purchase agreed in principle subject to contract, outcome of planning appeal and Government approval. |
|
Fermoy |
4.1 acres (at Teagasc, Moorepark) |
Purchase agreed in principle subject to contract and Government approval. |
The Clonakilty offices are due to be completed in Quarter 1 2009. All of the foregoing, however, need to be considered against the background of the Government decision on 8th July last that no further expenditure on the acquisition of accommodation for decentralisation should be sanctioned pending detailed consideration by the Government of two reports: one from the Decentralisation Implementation Group on the feasibility of phased moves by the State Agencies; and one from the Implementation Group of Secretaries General on the governmental and cross-Departmental issues arising from the need to provide facilities for Minister, Ministers of State and officials while in Dublin on business. It is expected that the Minister for Finance will present these to Government over the coming weeks.
267 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will extend the deadline for applications under the farm waste management scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31846/08]
The deadline of 31 December 2008 for completion of work by farmers under the revised Farm Waste Management Scheme introduced by my Department in March 2006 is a condition of the EU state aid approval for the Scheme. I have raised this issue with the European Commission as recently as July and the Commission has since reaffirmed that it expects Ireland to respect this deadline strictly.
268 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a payment will be processed for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny under the scheme of investment aid for farm waste management; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31875/08]
The claim for payment lodged by the person concerned is being processed by my Department. I would expect that payment will be made in the near future provided that the claim is in compliance with the terms and conditions of the Scheme.
269 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a REP scheme four year one application, submitted in 2007 by a person (details supplied) in County Mayo, will be granted. [31695/08]
The application in this case was submitted on 23/1/08 and, if found to be valid, his REPS 4 contract will commence from 1 February 2008. Advance payments of 75% under the EU regulations governing REPS 4 can only issue when all administrative checks on applications for REPS 4 and the 2008 Single Payment Scheme are completed. This work is still ongoing and it is expected that payments will commence within the next six weeks. The balancing 25% payment will follow when all 2008 REPS on-farm inspections have taken place.
270 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32108/08]
The Department submits a quarterly return to the Decentralisation Implementation Group that details the non-property costs of the programme such as travel and overtime. To the end of June 2008, the last reporting deadline, the costs reported for the programme to date amounted to €147,031. Figures for the third quarter will be available in October.
The acquisition of property for the decentralisation programme is dealt with primarily by the Office of Public Works (OPW) and they have supplied the following details of the site acquisition at the four locations. This information is for the period of the programme to date; no property has been purchased since 3 July.
|
Location |
Site Area |
Status |
|
Portlaoise |
9.13 acres |
Purchase completed in 2007 |
|
Clonakilty |
3.1 acres |
Purchase completed in 2005 |
|
Macroom |
Site of 5 acres identified; planning issue on appeal to An Bord Pleanála |
Purchase agreed in principle subject to contract, outcome of planning appeal and Government approval. |
|
Fermoy |
4.1 acres (at Teagasc, Moorepark) |
Purchase agreed in principle subject to contract and Government approval. |
The Clonakilty decentralisation offices are due to be completed in Quarter 1 2009, at a cost of approximately €21m. Pending delivery of the permanent accommodation, the OPW has leased accommodation for the Department in Portlaoise on a temporary basis, as follows.
|
Premises |
Lease |
Rent p.a. |
Area |
Fit-out |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
2nd & 3rd Floors Eircom Building, Knockmay Industrial Estate |
5 years from 25 April 2005; Expires 24 January 2010 |
191,000 |
14,224 sq. ft plus 80 car spaces |
Nil |
|
Blocks A & B Grattan Business Centre, Dublin Road |
5 years from 20 January 2006; Option to terminate lease every 3 months from 20 January 2009 |
264,640 |
15,920 sq. ft plus 100 car spaces |
106,000 |
|
Ground & 1st Floors Grattan House, Grattan Business Centre, Dublin Road |
5 years from 30 November 2007; Option to terminate lease every 6 months from 29 November 2010 |
75,000 |
4,359 sq. ft plus 35 car spaces |
Nil |
Pending delivery of the permanent accommodation, the OPW has leased accommodation for the Department in Clonakilty on a temporary basis, as follows.
|
Premises |
Lease |
Rent p.a. |
Area |
Fit-out |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Block C, West Cork Technology Park |
2 years from 1 July 2006; Extended to coincide with delivery of permanent offices |
159,480 |
12,400 sq. ft. |
134,900 |
|
Block G, West Cork Technology Park |
2 years from 1 June 2007 |
118,910 |
9,363 sq. ft. |
116,744 |
Since 3 July the Department has assigned 26 staff members to Portlaoise and 1 to Clonakilty.
271 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on correspondence regarding additional works required to be carried out on a new school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if his Department will co-fund these works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31588/08]
As the Deputy is aware, construction of a new 16 classroom school for the school referred to by the Deputy is currently underway. My Department has not received any application for funding for the additional works referred to by the Deputy. However, I will arrange for an official from my Department's Building Unit to contact the school in relation to the request for additional works.
272 Deputy Edward O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science if a grant scheme (details supplied) is to be re-introduced. [31602/08]
The allocation of funding in respect of the Small Schools Scheme referred to by the Deputy will be considered in the context of the overall 2009 school building programme which is currently subject to the normal estimates process.
273 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the action that can be taken for persons who are caught in a situation (details supplied); the way this matter will be resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31619/08]
I consider that in the case of primary school teacher training it is essential that participants applying for the post graduate course meet the required criteria, as currently set down, which are common to all Colleges of Education that provide teacher training, and which include an honours level primary degree (a degree at Level 8 on the National Qualifications Framework) and a minimum of a Grade C3 at Higher Level in Irish in the Leaving Certificate or an approved equivalent.
I have indicated my intention to commence Section 30 of Teaching Council Act later this year. Thereafter only registered teachers will be entitled to be paid on an ongoing or open-ended basis. I also intend to provide for the use of unregistered personnel where this is a last resort for schools and work is ongoing in my Department to formulate the best manner in which this can be time limited. The move to mandatory registration of teachers will be an important factor in progressively ensuring a fully qualified and registered teaching cohort.
274 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Education and Science the criteria under which schools that are awaiting approval for an extension or for a new school building will be assessed; the way his Department’s priority band rating will operate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31661/08]
The priority rating of each individual building project is established in accordance with the Criteria for Prioritising Large Scale Projects (Primary and Post-primary) which is available on my Department's website at www.education.ie. In accordance with the criteria set down, each project is allocated to an appropriate priority band rating on the basis of objective criteria. A review of the criteria for prioritising large-scale projects was undertaken in consultation with the Education Partners in early 2004 to ensure that the criteria have the optimum precision and are fully tuned to meeting the priority accommodation needs of primary and post-primary schools. The revised criteria have been seen as bringing greater clarity and focus to the system. The amended criteria are applied to all projects that proceed to tender and construction.
The number of building projects under consideration can change on a day to day basis as new applications are received and existing applications are progressed in my Department. The Deputy will appreciate that this investment must continue to be targeted using the published prioritisation criteria. Details of projects to move forward under the programme will be published as and when they are ready to be advanced in the context of capital expenditure requirements.
275 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Education and Science the different levels of the priority rating bands that exist for schools awaiting approval for new school buildings or extensions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31662/08]
The priority attaching to individual projects is determined by published prioritisation criteria, which were formulated following consultation with the Education Partners. There are four band ratings under these criteria, each of which describes the extent of accommodation required and the urgency attaching to it. Band 1 is the highest priority rating and Band 4 is the lowest. More detailed information relating to the prioritisation system for school building projects is available on my Department's website.
276 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the deteriorating condition of the roofs of schools (details supplied) in Dublin 24; if these schools will be approved under the summer works scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31679/08]
I can confirm that the school referred to by the Deputy applied for works under the 2008 Summer Works Scheme. Since the Summer Works Scheme was introduced in 2004, over 3,000 projects costing in excess of €300 million have been completed. With so many smaller projects having been completed over the past few years, the particular emphasis in 2008 is on providing sufficient school places in developing areas, while also showing the Government's commitment to delivering improvements in the quality of existing primary and post-primary school accommodation throughout the country. Accordingly my Department is focusing on delivering as many large projects as possible in 2008 and there is no Summer Works Scheme this year. However, it is intended to have a Summer Works Scheme in 2009.
277 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a school (details supplied) in Dublin 12 has not been given approval to proceed with the building and extension as agreed; his views on the impact of this delay on the students and teachers in the school; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this school has DEIS status; the progress of this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31681/08]
The proposed building project for the school to which the Deputy refers is at an advanced stage of architectural planning. The commencement and progression of all large scale building projects from initial design stage through to construction phase, including this project, will be considered 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 this project at this time.
278 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress of an application for a school building programme (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31682/08]
The proposed building project for the school to which the Deputy refers is at an advanced stage of architectural planning.
The commencement and progression of all large scale building projects from initial design stage through to construction phase, including this project, will be considered 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 this project at this time.
279 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science when a new building will be constructed for a primary school (details supplied) in County Mayo; the progress in this matter; when the construction phase will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31690/08]
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 this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered 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.
280 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the amounts being paid for the rental of prefabricated classrooms in each county in 2007 and to date in 2008, with details for both primary and secondary level schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31691/08]
281 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if the rental charges for prefabricated classrooms are fully paid up to date with details on a county basis for primary and secondary level schools; if rental charges for these structures has not been paid up to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31692/08]
282 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the rental payment schedule for pre-fab classrooms on a county basis to date in 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31693/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 280 to 282, inclusive, together.
The demand for additional accommodation in schools has risen significantly over the last number of years, with the appointment of 6,000 extra teachers in the primary sector alone since 2002. In considering the need to provide extra resources and teachers to schools in recent years, the Government prioritised putting the extra teachers into schools as soon as possible rather than making children wait until permanent accommodation could be provided in all cases.
The rapid increase in the school going population has also meant that a large number of new schools have been established in recent years, under the process for the recognition of new schools conducted by the New Schools Advisory Committee. It is the general practice of my Department not to provide permanent accommodation for schools which have only received temporary recognition. When the school receives permanent recognition, it is then open to the school to apply for funding for permanent accommodation.
Some schools with immediate additional accommodation needs are accommodated in prefabricated buildings, while others rent permanent premises.
The information sought by the Deputy is not held by my Department on a county-by-county basis. Nor does it distinguish between rental payments for permanent premises and prefabricated buildings. However, the information on overall expenditure for 2007 and to the end of August 2008 for rental of temporary accommodation in the primary and post-primary sectors is provided in the attached tabular statement.
My Department grant aids schools to enable them to pay rent for approved temporary accommodation. This grant aid is paid to the schools on submission to my Department of valid invoices verifying that the school is renting the accommodation in accordance with the terms under which sanction was given.
My Department will continue to provide funding for such prefabricated accommodation and the decision on whether to rent or purchase will depend on the likely length of time it will be required. In all cases, the approach will be to ensure best value for money.
|
Year |
Expenditure on Rental of Temporary School Premises (including prefab classrooms) Primary Level |
Expenditure on Rental of Temporary School Premises (including prefab classrooms) Post-Primary Level |
|
2007 |
34.50 |
1.00 |
|
To 31/08/08 |
24.61 |
2.35 |
283 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the impact of the withdrawal of fuel rebates under EU directives on the viability of school transport providers; and if fresh contracts will take this into account. [31720/08]
The Finance Act 2008 provided the legislative changes to withdraw relief in respect of fuel used for public transport vehicles with effect from 1 November 2008 in line with the European Union Energy Tax Directive. The appropriate full excise duties will apply from that date.
My Department is in discussions with the Department of Finance on the impact of the withdrawal of the relief in respect of fuel used by school transport operators in the context of the 2009 Estimates.
284 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application for funding for a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary; when a decision will be made; if her attention has been drawn to the urgency of this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31731/08]
287 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application for funding for a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary; his views on the urgency of this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31734/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 284 and 287 together.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that funding for the provision of Temporary Accommodation, namely one eighty square metre Mainstream Classroom, at the school in question has been approved by my Department.
285 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application for building works for a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary; when a decision will be made; if her attention has been drawn to the urgency of this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31732/08]
An application for an extension to the college referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning.
The commencement and progression of all large scale building projects from initial design stage through to construction phase, including this project will be considered 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.
286 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science if an application has been received for a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary for the emergency works grant; when the application will be processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31733/08]
The school referred to by the Deputy applied for funding for various works to the school building under the emergency works scheme.
Generally emergency works grants are made available to schools most in need of resources as a result of unforeseen emergencies of a capital nature that may arise during the school year. The application from the school was assessed in my Department. However, in light of the large number of projects seeking funding under this scheme from the budget allocated, it was not possible to provide funding to the school at this time.
288 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of resource hours available to students in primary schools in north Tipperary; the number of children receiving resource hours; if she will compare these figures to the past school year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31735/08]
289 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of applications made for resource hours for students in primary schools in north Tipperary; if she will compare these figures to the past school year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31737/08]
290 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of applications made for resources hours for students in post primary schools in north Tipperary; if she will compare these figures to the past school year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31738/08]
291 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of resource teachers and classroom assistants in primary schools in north Tipperary; if she will compare these figures to the past school year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31739/08]
292 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of resource teachers and classroom assistants in post primary schools in north Tipperary; if she will compare these figures to the past school year. [31740/08]
300 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of resource hours available to students in post primary schools in north Tipperary; the number of children receiving resource hours, if she will compare these figures to the past school year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31736/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 288 to 292, inclusive, and 300 together.
I wish to advise the Deputy that the information requested by the Deputy in relation to resource teachers and special needs assistants in primary and post primary schools in the North Tipperary area is not readily available within my Department.
As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) was set up to improve the delivery of education services to persons with special educational needs arising from disabilities with particular emphasis on children. One of the key functions of the NCSE, with its network of up to 80 Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), is the allocation of resource teacher and special needs assistant supports to schools to enable them meet the needs of pupils with special educational needs. I have arranged for the Deputy's queries to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.
293 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary and post primary schools from north Tipperary that applied for the summer works scheme before his Department decided to abolish it; the names of all the schools in this category; the works they applied for; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31759/08]
294 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans to reinstate the summer works scheme; the timeframe for doing so; if schools that have applied previously will have to reapply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31760/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 293 and 294 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Summer Works Scheme has, since its introduction just a few years ago, transformed the standard of existing school accommodation. With over 3,000 projects now having been funded under the scheme, my Department concentrated the investment in school buildings this year on delivering as many large projects as possible.
While there was a focus on providing extra places in developing areas, the Department also delivered improvements in the quality of existing primary and post-primary school accommodation throughout the country. The emphasis, however, was on new schools, extensions and major refurbishments, rather than on smaller projects. At primary level, schools were free to use their devolved minor works grant to address such works.
In the circumstances, there was no Summer Works Scheme as part of the Department's building programme in 2008. This being the case, details in relation to the type of project and the estimated cost have not been collated by the Department. I would also advise the Deputy that it is my intention to have a Summer Works Scheme in 2009.
The Professional and Technical Reports provided by schools for 2008 can be used again for future projects so that schools will not be at the loss of expenditure on them.
295 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will reinstate classes in four subjects to all students at a school (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31822/08]
Teacher allocations to all second level schools are approved annually by my Department in accordance with established rules based on recognised pupil enrolment. In accordance with these rules each school management authority is required to organise its subject options within the limit of its approved teacher allocation. It is a matter for the school to employ teachers up to the limit of its approved allocation and at its discretion to deploy those teachers to the subject areas that the school chooses to provide.
A school authority may from time to time encounter unanticipated difficulty which it has not been in a position to immediately resolve, through its school planning and management processes in meeting essential curricular commitments to pupils within the normal staffing allocation. In such circumstances, my Department will consider requests by a school authority for a staffing concession as short-term support.
Over the past five years the school referred to by the Deputy had on average four teachers more than it was entitled to for a school of its size. Over and above that, the Department granted additional teaching hours to the school to enable particular subjects to be taught. These concessions were approved on the basis of allowing the school time to action a plan of curricular and timetable adjustments to enable the school to operate within its approved allocation limits. This year such a request was not approved for this school on the basis that the school had been allocated concessions in previous years, had adequate opportunity to re-organise its subject options, had taken no effective action to operate within its allocation and continued to have more than three teachers in excess of its entitlement.
An Independent Appeals Committee considers appeals by school authorities against decisions of my Department in regard to allocations of teaching staff. The Appeals Committee operates independently of my Department. The school appealed to the Independent Appeals Committee and its appeal was not successful. The school continued to make representations and has not given any indication that it is prepared to contemplate making any adjustments now or in the future. The school's inaction has resulted in a situation where a number of students preparing for the State Examinations could be left without teachers in certain subjects. Notwithstanding the fact that the Appeals Committee had completed its work, my Department as a totally exceptional measure has made additional teaching hours available to the school to enable it cater for examination students in these classes. This has been done in the interest of the students concerned while the Department continues to have an ongoing concern about the failure of this school to manage within its approved teacher allocation.
296 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools that have been allocated funding under the 2006 devolved building scheme; the number of these schools that applied for funding for additional costs; and the number of these that were granted the additional funding. [31837/08]
The information sought is not readily available in the format requested by the Deputy. However, my officials are currently compiling this information and it will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
297 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason he has ordered a moratorium on the establishment of new primary schools except in rapidly expanding areas, at a time when pupil numbers are growing and there is a need for 100,000 extra places within seven to ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31842/08]
As the Deputy will be aware, I have recently announced a review of the procedures for the establishment of new primary schools. The term of office of the New Schools Advisory Committee (NSAC), which was set up to assess all applications for new primary schools, expired last month. The terms of reference of the Committee were originally drafted in 1998. Given the rapid growth in population and changing demographics in recent years, it is an opportune time to re-examine the criteria for the establishment of new primary schools.
I intend to establish a Technical Working Group under the Commission on School Accommodation to undertake a full review of the criteria and procedures for the recognition of new primary schools. Many issues will have to be addressed including both policy matters and practical issues raised by NSAC during the course of its work. Issues such as the minimum number of pupils required for the commencement of new schools, as well as a wide range of broad policy issues on school patronage and the approach to diversity of provision, need to be carefully considered.
In the interim period, it is not planned to recognise any new primary schools except in areas where increases in pupil numbers that cannot be catered for in existing schools require the provision of new schools. This means that new schools will not be established for reasons not related to demographic growth in areas where there is already sufficient school accommodation or where the increases can be catered for by extending the existing school accommodation.
This review does not mean that there will be a complete cessation of the school building programme outside of areas of rapid growth. This year alone, over €586 million will be spent on the school building programme. One-third of that is being spent in rapidly developing areas. This has resulted in the delivery of 12,000 new school places in 2008, a record number in any one year. In addition to the establishment of new schools in areas of rapid population growth, the normal building programme of modernising, replacing or extending existing schools will continue and I intend making a further announcement in this regard at a later date.
298 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if he plans to increase the transition year capitation grant from its level of €100 per pupil; if he plans to increase or redistribute funding for transition year programmes in schools located in disadvantaged sectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31843/08]
The Transition Year Programme (TYP) is part of the revised Senior Cycle structure and over 500 schools are now providing the programme. My Department provides a special per capita grant to schools in the free education scheme offering TYP, including schools located in disadvantaged sectors. This is in respect of additional teaching hours required to allow for coordination and planning and for any other expenses related exclusively to the TYP. Since September 2007, the TYP grant was increased from €63.49 to €100 per pupil for the current school year. There are no proposals to increase or redistribute funding for transition year programmes in schools located in the disadvantaged sectors.
299 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding a school building project (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the reason for the delay in processing this application; the reason that the project has been put on hold; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31730/08]
The project referred to by the Deputy is currently awaiting the appointment of a Design Team. The commencement and progression of all large scale building projects from initial design stage through to construction phase, including this project, will be considered 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.
301 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Education and Science the moneys under the decentralisation programme for the period from 3 July to date in 2008 that have been expended, properties purchased and employees decentralised specifying all relevant locations under each of these headings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32113/08]
I understand from the Office of Public Works that no properties have been purchased since 3 July, 2008. In terms of non- property costs, €25,749 has been spent by my Department on the decentralisation programme since July 2008. Since 3 July, 2008, a further 17 posts have been decentralised to Athlone. I can confirm to the Deputy that at this stage my Department has completed the process of decentralising all sections due to relocate to Athlone.
