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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Oct 2008

Vol. 662 No. 4

Written Answers.

The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 6, inclusive, answered orally.
Questions Nos. 7 to 124, inclusive, resubmitted.
Questions Nos. 125 to 132, inclusive, answered orally.

Departmental Staff.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

133 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the mechanism he will use to achieve the 3% reduction in payroll costs for his Department as announced in July 2008; the areas, sections or agencies that will be affected by the reduction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33513/08]

As the Deputy is aware, the Government decided in July, on a number of spending measures to maintain a prudent fiscal out-turn for 2008 and to provide the basis for a sustainable approach to the financial situation in 2009.

One of the measures decided upon was a requirement that all Departments, State Agencies and Local Authorities — other than Health and Education — will be required to reduce their payroll bill by 3% by the end of 2009 through all appropriate measures identified by local management in the light of local circumstances. It is anticipated that measures to be taken in this regard may include control of premium pay, management of vacancies, the organisation of work processes and the levels at which work is carried out, as well as control of numbers through recruitment and other measures.

My Department will be working with the Department of Finance to ensure that the appropriate steps are taken to achieve the savings required.

Community Development.

Joan Burton

Question:

134 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the grants available to sports clubs in RAPID areas to provide and improve facilities for recreational activities for young people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33499/08]

The RAPID Programme aims to ensure that priority attention is given to tackling the spatial concentration of poverty and social exclusion within 46 designated RAPID areas nationally. It is a matter for individual lead Departments to report on their investments in RAPID areas.

Deputies will be aware that, in 2004, I introduced the RAPID Leverage Fund to provide financial support for small-scale projects in RAPID areas, which are endorsed by the RAPID Area Implementation Teams. Under this scheme, my Department provides an additional grant of up to 30% of the funds allocated under the Sports Capital Programme operated by my Colleague, the Minister for Arts, Sports and Tourism for projects in or serving RAPID areas. Indeed from 2008 the overall level of funding has been increased to 90% of the project cost. Under this arrangement, top-up funding of €1,960,426 has been allocated to projects in or serving RAPID areas under the Sports Capital Programme 2008. Funding of €13m has been allocated since 2004.

Following the enactment of the Dormant Accounts (Amendment) Act 2005, funding is ring-fenced annually to support priority projects in RAPID areas. Since 2007, 15% of the annual €7.5million available under the RAPID Additionality Measure is allocated to sports and youth related activities.

A further €0.2 million of the Dormant Accounts was allocated under the 2006 and 2007 rounds of funding for equipment grants for youth groups with a particular focus on disadvantaged and marginal groups. Details of beneficiaries to date are available on my Department's website www.pobail.ie.

The Deputy may also wish to note that the Young Peoples Facilities and Services Fund also operates in some RAPID areas and to date, over €66m has been allocated in capital funding to support the development of a range of youth, community and sports facilities in the areas in which it operates.

Staidéir Teangeolaíochta.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

135 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Brian O’Shea den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an mó cruinniú a bhí ag an bhfo-choiste rialtais a cuireadh ar bun chun déileáil le moltaí an staidéir teangeolaíochta [33507/08]

Go dáta bhí dhá chruinniú ag an gCoiste Rialtais atá luaite sa Cheist seo — ar 10 Aibreán 2008 agus 23 Iúil 2008.

Departmental Bodies.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

136 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the semi-State bodies, boards or agencies for which his Department is responsible; the number he was responsible for setting up; the number that will be merged or abolished; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33512/08]

Details of the public bodies funded by, or within the ambit of, my Department are:

An Coimisinéir Teanga

The Board of the Commissioners of Charitable Donations & Bequests for Ireland

The Dormant Accounts Board

National Advisory Committee on Drugs

National Drugs Strategy Team

Údarás na Gaeltachta

Western Development Commission

My Department also provides funding for the following North/South Implementation Bodies jointly with the Department of Culture Arts and Leisure in Northern Ireland:

An Foras Teanga — which is comprised of Foras na Gaeilge and Tha Boord o Ulstèr-Scotch

and Waterways Ireland.

In addition, my Department provides funding to Pobal to centrally manage a number of programmes.

For the sake of completeness, I should also mention that a number of local development agencies receive funding either directly through my Department or through Pobal for local delivery of community and rural development measures. This number comprises a total of 94 local development bodies and 184 community development projects. Arising from the cohesion process, which involves the merger of overlapping LEADER and Partnership groups, the number of local development bodies will ultimately be reduced from 94 to 54.

Since my appointment as Minister in 2002, one new agency, Oifig Choimisinéir na dTeangacha Oifigiúla was established. For completeness I should add that during this time Pobal was reconstituted from the former Area Development Management Limited and that the Dormant Accounts Disbursement Board was replaced by the Dormant Accounts Board.

The Charities Bill, which I anticipate will go to Report Stage in Dáil Éireann in the current Dáil session, provides for the dissolution of the Commissioners of Charitable Donations & Bequests for Ireland. The Bill further proposes that a new Charities Regulatory Authority will take over the functions of the Commissioners, as well as assuming a broader regulatory role for charities operating in Ireland, so as to ensure accountability and to protect against abuse of charitable status and fraud, thus enhancing public confidence in the charities sector.

In accordance with recent decisions adopted by the North South Ministerial Council and in order to secure good practice and value for money, the functions and funding for Bord na Leabhar Gaeilge, in addition to the functions of Colmcille in Ireland and Northern Ireland, have now transferred to Foras na Gaeilge.

I would also advise the Deputy that Foras na Gaeilge — an agency of the North South Language Body -, in order to promote the Irish language on an all-island basis, is currently engaged in a review of the funding provided to 19 Irish language organisations with a view to ensuring optimum value for money going forward.

In the Budget for 2008, the Minister for Finance 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 in July, when the Minister for Finance 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.

The Department of Finance is working with all Government Departments on this matter and issues arising from this are being considered in the context of the Budget for 2009.

Water Quality.

Joe Costello

Question:

137 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on drinking water quality at public water schemes funded by his Department in view of the latest reports on drinking water quality; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33503/08]

I have no statutory responsibility for the quality of drinking water in public water schemes.

My Department provides top-up funding to local authorities for the provision of a number of small public water schemes under the CLÁR and Gaeltacht programmes.

The question of drinking water standards is a matter for my colleague, John Gormley, T.D., Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government. It is a matter for local authorities to meet these standards in providing public water schemes.

National Drugs Strategy.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

138 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the meetings he has had with the Department of Health and Children regarding newspaper reports that state the drug substitute methadone was implicated or used in cases involving the death of drug users; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33518/08]

I have not met with the Department of Health and Children to specifically discuss the reports of methadone being implicated in the deaths of drug users. However, I chair the Inter-Departmental Group on Drugs (IDG), which meets quarterly and on which both the Department of Health & Children and the Health Service Executive (HSE) are represented. All matters relevant to the implementation of the National Drugs Strategy are discussed in that forum.

In this context, the Deputy should note that the HSE provide regular updates to the Group on a range of issues, including a progress report on matters relating to the Central Methadone Treatment List. The issue of methadone deaths was raised at the last IDG meeting, in the context of a presentation on the National Drug Related Death Index (NDRDI), which is being developed by the Health Research Board.

The findings of the NDRDI — which I understand will be published in early November — will be considered by all relevant parties, including the Steering Group established to develop proposals on the new National Drugs Strategy to cover the period 2009 to 2016. This work is currently on-going.

Community Development.

Willie Penrose

Question:

139 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to provide grant assistance to community groups to upgrade their facilities to ensure improvements in the carbon footprint values of such facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33521/08]

As the Deputy will be aware, my Department operates a range of initiatives, schemes and programmes supportive of community groups and to upgrade facilities. While these programmes do not specifically target improvements designed to reduce the carbon footprint of the facilities aided under these programmes, the improvements made to the facilities can serve to improve the energy efficiency of the facilities concerned. The key initiatives through which my Department provides support for improvements in community facilities are detailed below:

Under the Programme of Support for Local Community and Voluntary Groups, grants are available for locally based groups who wish to undertake small scale refurbishment works or projects to upgrade equipment in use in community facilities.

Under the new LEADER Programme, which will be delivered through Axes 3 & 4 of the Rural Development Programme 2007-13, funding will be provided for actions aimed at certain quality of life initiatives, specifically targeted to rural communities under the ‘Basic Services for the Economy and Rural Population' measure. Although funding is not explicitly provided to ensure improvements in the carbon footprint values of community facilities, eligible activities under this measure does include the upgrading of general community and recreational infrastructure. In accordance with the LEADER bottom-up approach, applications will be processed by Local Action Groups contracted to deliver the Programme on my Department's behalf.

As the Deputy will be aware, the aim of the RAPID Programme is to ensure that priority attention is given to tackling the spatial concentration of poverty and social exclusion within the 46 designated RAPID areas. In this regard, the RAPID leverage scheme supports small-scale projects identified locally by the Area Implementation Teams in each of the RAPID areas. I introduced a further enhancement to this scheme in September of this year, which should have a beneficial effect on the environment. Under the Physical Environment Improvement Scheme 2009-2013, initiatives on waste and environmental management may be supported. Annual funding totalling €9.2m will be provided for works under this scheme, €4.6m from the RAPID leverage fund and €4.6m from the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government through the relevant local authorities.

Information including eligibility criteria regarding the above initiatives, schemes and programmes, is available on my Department's website at www.pobail.ie.

Finally, in regard to islands development, my Department is examining, in cooperation with Sustainable Energy Ireland, the feasibility of developing alternative energy systems on inhabited offshore islands. As a first step, a design study is to be commissioned that will examine the potential of a wind powered low CO2 system with minimum energy imports. The study will investigate the potential cost savings for the consumer of an integrated system with respect to the current energy system.

Voluntary Sector.

Simon Coveney

Question:

140 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on whether the supports and policy initiatives given to the voluntary sector are sufficient to allow it to develop to its full capacity in view of the continued growth of that sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33553/08]

My Department is committed to the ongoing development of supports to strengthen and underpin the work of the community and voluntary sector in Ireland. Indeed, the growth of the sector in recent years has been accompanied by a significant expansion of supports by Government. My Department alone provides funding in excess of €400m annually to the groups and measures across the sector.

Policy initiatives are underpinned by the ‘Towards 2016' Partnership Agreement, which recognises the valuable role of the community & voluntary sector. The agreement notes that the great strength of voluntary activity is that it emerges organically from communities and points out that while the Government should not seek to control and be involved in every aspect of voluntary activity, it does have a responsibility to provide an enabling framework to help the sector.

A key area of support is in relation to Charities legislation. The Charities Bill, which I anticipate will go to Report Stage in Dáil Éireann in the current session provides for a new Charities Regulatory Authority to be established, which will assume a broader regulatory role for charities operating in Ireland. This will secure improved accountability and protect against abuse of charitable status and fraud, thus enhancing public confidence in the charities sector.

The Deputy should also note that my Department provides funding to the community and voluntary sector for training in relation to capacity building in governance and compliance, strategic development, and service to communities. The Local Development Programme also provides training and education grants for community development capacity building, IT training, or any other training priorities identified by local voluntary groups.

In addition, the Community Development Programme provides community premises, development workers and a capacity building project to disadvantaged communities in over 150 locations throughout the country. They play a significant role in building community infrastructure and enhancing the capacity of the voluntary groups within the communities.

The Task Force on Active Citizenship recommended that my Department fund a network of volunteer centres across the country. The Department is now supporting twenty such centres, and they support, promote and coordinate voluntary activities around Ireland, for example the ‘Give it a Swirl Day' which recently took place in many locations to highlight local volunteering opportunities.

Further details in relation to schemes and programmes operated by my Department that support the wider community & voluntary sector are available on my Department's website — www.pobail.ie.

Foras na Gaeilge.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

141 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cé na céimeanna atá sé chun glacadh chun go mbeidh nuachtán laethúil Gaeilge ar fáil amach anseo tar éis chinneadh Fhoras na Gaeilge le déanaí. [33572/08]

Mar a mhínigh mé i mo fhreagra ar Cheist Uimhir 14 ar 26 Meitheamh 2008, tá maoiniú á chur ar fáil ag Foras na Gaeilge do Phreas an Phobail chun an nuachtán laethúil, Lá Nua, a fhoilsiú. Tuigim ón bhForas anois go mairfidh an conradh sin go dtí deireadh Márta 2009 ach, don tréimhse ina dhiaidh sin, tá sé i gceist ag an bhForas díriú isteach ar nuachtán seachtainiúil le seirbhís leictreonach a chur ar fáil.

Mar chúlra, ba chóir dom a mhíniú go ndearna Foras na Gaeilge staidéar ar an margadh agus léiríonn a gcuid figiúirí nach bhfuil margadh ann i láthair na huaire le haghaidh nuachtáin laethúil. Sna cúinsí sin, is é plean an Fhorais ná an pobal léitheoireachta a fhás trí tháirge ar ardchaighdeán a chur ar fáil le tacaíochtaí leictreonacha. Ag eascairt as an bplean sin, táthar ag súil nós na léitheoireachta a chothú ar mhaithe le margadh ceart a chruthú le haghaidh nuachtán laethúil sa todhchaí.

Job Creation.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

142 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of new jobs created in the Gaeltacht since 1 January 2008 to date in 2008 by Údarás na Gaeltachta; the number lost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33525/08]

I understand that the information requested by the Deputy will not be available until Údarás na Gaeltachta has completed its annual employment survey, the results of which will be published in January 2009.

However, an tÚdarás has indicated that the level of job approvals has continued at a rate consistent with recent years; that job creation accordingly, subject to economic conditions nationally and internationally, should be in line with recent trends; and that there is no indication at this stage of any significant increase in job losses.

National Drugs Strategy.

Catherine Byrne

Question:

143 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the way in which he targets young people under 18 at risk of drug addiction; the programmes in place to deter young people from experimenting with illegal substances; if the new national drug strategy will make special provision for youths, under 18, and identify their specific needs in relation to education, treatment and rehabilitation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33566/08]

Under the Young People's Facilities and Services Fund, which targets 10-21 year olds at risk of drug misuse, a broad range of activities and initiatives are being supported. As the Deputy is aware, the Fund has a strong prevention focus and its aim is to attract young people in disadvantaged areas into facilities and activities and divert them away from the dangers of substance misuse. Of the order of €22m is being provided this year to support the valuable work being done through the Fund. Consistent with the Taoiseach's announcement in May last, arrangements to transfer responsibility for the Fund to the Office of the Minister for Youth Affairs and Children are currently being progressed.

In this context, it should also be noted that I recently announced funding of almost €2.3m for the development of 16 dedicated youth facilities in Regional Drugs Task Force areas not covered by the YPFSF. I am confident that these projects will play an important and ongoing role in diverting young people away from the dangers of drug use.

A number of the projects being run through the Local and Regional Drugs Task Forces also work with under-18s. The type of projects funded range from drugs education workers, prison links workers, counsellors, youth information projects and outreach services. Some of the projects funded are not exclusively for under-18s — rather they encompass family members under family support projects and initiatives run by community drugs teams.

This year, additional funding has been provided to the Drugs Task Forces to facilitate local and regional drugs awareness campaigns to dovetail with the national campaign, focusing on cocaine. These will be particularly relevant to young people as the Drugs Prevalence Survey 2006/07 confirmed that illegal drug usage is predominantly a younger adult phenomenon, particularly among the 15-34 year age group.

In addition to the work of my own Department, as outlined above, there are, of course, a number of programmes and schemes being run by other Departments and Agencies which are aimed specifically at helping the under- 18's. These include:

The Department of Education and Science are ensuring that drugs education programmes are being delivered to all schools as part of the wider social and personal health programmes delivered through SPHE, Walk Tall, and On Your Own Two Feet and the majority of schools now have substance misuse policies in place;

In addition, An Garda Síochána have over 100 Special Projects in place around the country under their Juvenile Liaison service and the Garda Diversion Programmes. These projects work with young people at risk of engaging in crime and substance misuse; and

Primary responsibility for the treatment and rehabilitation of under-18s lies with the Health Service Executive who developed guidelines for the treatment of this age group in 2006. I am assured that all under-18s are prioritised for treatment and that the HSE is working to implement the recommendations of the under-18s Working Group who developed the guidelines.

Finally, in relation to the new National Drugs Strategy, the Deputy will be aware that the work of the Steering Group, charged with developing proposals in this regard, is on-going at present. I am confident that the needs of particular groups, including the under-18s, will considered by them in their deliberations over the coming months.

Community Development.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

144 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the extent to which it is intended to increase, expand or extend services or funding by his Department to various community support groups throughout the country in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33563/08]

The Deputy will be aware that my Department operates a number of programmes and schemes to support communities and the work of community and voluntary organisations. The details of individual schemes are available on the Department's website (www.pobail.ie).

Funding for these programmes in 2009 will be decided in the context of available resources provided in next year's Estimates.

Foras na Gaeilge.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

145 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Michael D. Higgins den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad iad na heagrais Ghaeilge a bheidh á gcur ar ceal nó a chaillfidh deontas in 2009; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [33508/08]

Ar an gcéad dul síos, ba chóir dom a mhíniú go gcuirtear bunmhaoiniú do 19 eagras deonach Gaeilge ar fáil trí Fhoras na Gaeilge. Is trí Vóta mo Roinne féin agus tríd an Roinn Cultúir, Ealaíon agus Fóillíochta ó Thuaidh a chuirtear an t-airgead sin ar fáil don bhForas d'fhonn an Ghaeilge a chur chun cinn ar bhonn uile-oileánda.

Tuigim ó Fhoras na Gaeilge go bhfuil athbhreithniú ar bun aige maidir leis na heagrais Gaeilge atá á maoiniú i láthair na huaire le cinntiú go mbeidh an luach airgid is fearr le fáil sa todhchaí. Tá sé ró-luath ag an bpointe seo réamhaithris a dhéanamh ar an tionchar a d'fhéadfadh a bheith ag torthaí an athbhreithnithe seo ar chúrsaí maoinithe na n-eagras i 2009.

Irish Language.

Mary Upton

Question:

146 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the proposed timeframe for the implementation of the 20 year strategy on the Irish language; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33523/08]

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

161 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding the consultation process for the development of the 20 year strategy for the Irish language; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33554/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 146 and 161 together.

The Government's Statement on the Irish Language 2006 includes a commitment to develop a 20-year Strategy for the Irish language, which is intended to be the foundation for practical action for supporting and promoting the language, based on a modern, integrated approach.

With regard to the consultation process for the formulation of the Strategy, my Department is currently in the second phase of the public consultation process. The first phase took place earlier this year and involved a series of public meetings and an on-line survey. Based on the views and recommendations expressed by the public during this process, a discussion document has been published that draws together the various strands and has outlined the key elements to be addressed in the Strategy. A further series of public meetings is currently being held to give people the opportunity to express their views regarding the discussion document.

In addition to the public consultation, Fiontar DCU, the consultants that are assisting in the formulation of the Strategy, are in consultation with key stakeholders in both the public and voluntary sectors as to their recommendations for inclusion in the Strategy. Fiontar have also brought together in their Advisory Group international expertise with experience in minority languages.

The Strategy, when completed, will be a comprehensive road map of where we need to go, over the 20 year implementation timeframe. Each individual element of the Strategy — Irish in the community, in the education system, provision of public services through Irish, and so on — will require to be fleshed out in detail in sectoral plans once the overall Strategy has Government approval.

It is expected that the draft Strategy will be submitted for my consideration and for submission for Government approval by the end of the year.

Community Development.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

147 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the grants available through his Department for rural lighting in view of the importance of such lighting and the safety factor that such lights provide in rural communities. [33510/08]

My Department does not operate a scheme or programme specifically for rural lighting. However, funding may be available under a number of the Department's schemes as follows: Under the Gaeltacht and Islands Improvement Schemes, my Department may provide assistance to Local Authorities for co-funded village enhancement works, which may include public lighting. Under the Community Support for Older People (CSOP) scheme, grants are provided to support the installation of external lighting for qualifying older people, and to provide interior emergency lighting for qualifying older people living on our offshore islands. This scheme is managed by my Department and is administered locally by community and voluntary groups. Under the LEADER programme, which will be delivered through Axes 3 & 4 of the Rural Development Programme 2007-13, support will be provided for actions aimed at enhancing the environmental, amenity and surface structural aspects of villages and small towns under the ‘Village Renewal and Development' measure. In this context, funding may be available for public utilities such as street lighting.

I should point out that, in accordance with the LEADER bottom-up approach to rural development, applications for funding the LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 are processed by Local Action Groups contracted to deliver the Programme on my Department's behalf. My Department has no role in processing such applications.

Further information regarding these and other schemes operated by my Department is available on the Department's website, www.pobail.ie.

National Drugs Strategy.

Catherine Byrne

Question:

148 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason, further to the recent announcement to approve almost €2 million in respect of projects to address cocaine use and support rehabilitation here, the majority of this funding is to be spent on salaries; his views on whether this is the best use of available funding; and if it will have a real effect on the ground; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33565/08]

As the Deputy outlines, I recently announced funding of almost €2m for nearly 30 projects aimed at addressing cocaine use and supporting rehabilitation. This follows a call for proposals earlier this year to Local and Regional Drugs Task Forces.

Tackling cocaine use and implementing the recommendations of the Report of the Working Group on Drugs Rehabilitation remain priorities for Government. In this regard, funding of nearly €1.2m is being made available to:

support the development of new responses to cocaine misuse;

strengthen and develop existing cocaine-specific projects in LDTF areas; and

support other projects aimed at tackling poly-drug/cocaine use.

In relation to rehabilitation, over €0.750m is also being made available to assist recovering drug users to regain their capacity for daily life so that they can reintegrate back into their families and communities and begin to lead more meaningful lives again.

All of the projects being supported through this latest round of funding were identified by the Drugs Task Forces and were approved following a rigorous assessment process.

In the main, the funding approved will support the employment of front-line project workers, counsellors and outreach workers who will provide specialist treatment and care to those affected by cocaine use and those in recovery from addiction. Overall, I am confident that the funding approved will have a real impact on the ground and will help to improve the lives of those who are most vulnerable in our society.

Martin Ferris

Question:

149 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his attention has been drawn to reports of crystal meth finds; if he will fund a report to ascertain the extent of the problem and organise an awareness campaign; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33574/08]

While I am aware of the recent seizure of crystal methamphetamine, historically in Ireland, there have been low levels of seizures in relation to that substance. Indeed, despite its popularity in some central and eastern European countries, across the EU generally, the drug has never taken off in terms of demand.

Notwithstanding this, the National Advisory Committee on Drugs (NACD) -through its Early Warning and Emerging Trends Sub-Committee — continues to monitor the situation. The NACD published a summary report on a pilot Drug Trend Monitoring System in 2007 which suggested a declining popularity for amphetamines and this was borne out by the findings in the 2006/07 National Drug Prevalence Survey.

It should also be noted that in 2007, An Garda Síochána held a conference on Methamphetamine entitled "to establish a threat assessment for the increase in availability of methamphetamine within the European Union". Arising from the conference, a detailed report was circulated to Regional and Local Drugs Task Forces.

In terms of drug prevention, evidence suggests that drawing attention to a drug not commonly used can serve to incite interest and, therefore, the best approach is to work with drug task forces, state agencies and service providers to monitor the situation.

It should also be noted that the National Addiction Training Institute has a training programme underway to enhance the skills of addiction teams and community drug workers in dealing with stimulant use. This will be equally useful for those who engage with methamphetamine users.

David Stanton

Question:

150 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if, as recommended on page 24 of the report of the Working Group on Drugs Rehabilitation 2007, a senior rehabilitation co-ordinator, as well as a number of other rehabilitation co-ordinators and appropriate support staff have been appointed to chair the national drugs rehabilitation implementation committee and participate on the treatment-rehabilitation sub-groups of the drugs task force; the role his Department has in the appointment of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33561/08]

The Report of the Working Group on Drugs Rehabilitation, published in May 2007, made a series of recommendations for the development of a comprehensive rehabilitation pillar under the National Drugs Strategy. As agreed by the Working Group, the HSE has the lead role in this area.

With regard to the appointment of the Senior Rehabilitation Co-ordinator, I understand that following recent interviews for the post, a formal offer has been made by the HSE to the successful candidate and an appointment is expected in the near future. Officials of my Department were consulted by the HSE in relation to the recruitment process for the post.

In addition, I understand that the National Drugs Rehabilitation Implementation Committee is currently in the process of being put in place to dovetail with the appointment of the Senior Rehabilitation Co-ordinator, who will chair it. My Department will be represented on that Committee.

Overall progress on the implementation of the Report of the Working Group on Drugs Rehabilitation will continue to be monitored through the Inter-Departmental Group on Drugs, which I chair. In this context, I can assure the Deputy that I will be working to ensure that progress will be made to implement the remaining recommendations of the Working Group over the coming months.

Ministerial Responsibilities.

David Stanton

Question:

151 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 459 of 10 July 2008 if the responsibility of the Young People’s Facilities and Services Fund has been fully transferred to the Office of the Minister for Children; if not, when he expects this transfer process to be completed; the position regarding the process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33560/08]

Consistent with the Taoiseach's announcement in May this year, my Department is currently progressing an Order to transfer the functions and duties relating to the Young Peoples Facilities & Services Fund (YPFSF) to the Office of the Minister for Youth Affairs and Children.

While I anticipate that the Order will be made quite shortly, it is likely that the formal transfer will take effect in January 2009 so as to best align functions with estimates allocations.

I am liaising closely with my colleague, Minister of State Barry Andrews T.D., to ensure that the transfer is completed in a timely manner.

Decentralisation Programme.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

152 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position of the decentralisation programme for his Department; the number of civil servants that have been relocated; the cost to his Department to date of the decentralisation programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33519/08]

The decentralisation programme is well advanced in my Department. From a total of 140 staff due to decentralise to Charlestown, Co Mayo, 100 have now relocated to an interim location in Tubbercurry, Co Sligo. In addition to this, the Office of Public Works has been engaged in the process of selecting and purchasing an appropriate site at Charlestown.

My Department's commitment in relation to Na Forbacha has been met in full, with 10 staff now relocated there.

From 2004 to end September 2008, my Department had incurred expenditure of €1,224,023 in non-property costs in respect of the Tubbercurry office. The Deputy will appreciate that any property costs arising are a matter for the Office of Public Works.

National Drugs Strategy.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

153 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the steps he is taking to increase funding for drugs task forces and other community based drugs projects. [33576/08]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

333 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the extent to which he has grant-aided or otherwise assisted drug rehabilitation programmes in urban and rural areas here to date in 2008; his proposals for further expenditure in the course of the remainder of 2008; his projections in this regard for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33842/08]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

335 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the extent to which he has by funding or otherwise assisted community groups involved in the fight against drugs to date in 2008; his proposals for the remainder of 2008 and projections for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33844/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 153, 333 and 335 together.

As the Deputies will be aware, the majority of expenditure allocated to community groups through my Department for drugs initiatives is channelled through the Local and Regional Drugs Task Forces. Projects are submitted through Drugs Task Forces to the National Drugs Strategy Team who make recommendations to myself, as Minister with responsibility for the National Drugs Strategy, on funding.

Over 440 Local Drugs Task Force (LDTF) projects, including those under the Emerging Needs Fund, are receiving funding from my Department. The 2008 allocation of €22m for such projects shows an increase of 9.5% over the amount spent in 2007. In the region of 170 of these projects focus on treatment and rehabilitation.

Across the ten Regional Drugs Task Force (RDTF) areas, work is progressing on the implementation of their Action Plans with the level of expenditure expected to increase by over 40% this year. Expenditure in 2007 on the ten RDTF plans came to over €7m and the increased provision in 2008 will allow for the full year cost of the approx. 155 community projects already in progress and this year sees the start of roughly another 40 projects. In 2007, a total of 67 treatment and rehabilitation projects were approved for funding and this is expected to rise to around 90 in 2008.

In addition, I recently announced funding of almost €2m for around 30 projects aimed at supporting rehabilitation (€750,000) and addressing cocaine use (€1.2m approx). This follows a call for proposals earlier this year to Local and Regional Drugs Task Forces. The rehabilitation projects will assist recovering drug users to regain their capacity for life so that they can reintegrate back into their families and communities and begin to lead more meaningful lives again.

Under the Premises Initiative Fund, which addresses the accommodation needs of community drugs projects in Task Force areas, nearly €4m has been approved in 2008 for 15 capital projects, a number of which focus on rehabilitation.

Finally, the Deputies will appreciate that the funding in 2009 for drugs initiatives will be decided in the context of the next year's Estimates.

Ciste na Gaeilge.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

154 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the action he proposes to take arising from the value for money and policy review of Ciste na Gaeilge 2000 to 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33524/08]

As the Deputy will be aware, the Value for Money & Policy Review of Ciste na Gaeilge during the period 2000 to 2005 has recently been placed before the Houses of the Oireachtas and is also available on my Department's website at:

http://www.pobail.ie/en/IrishLanguage/CistenaGaeilge/.

The Departmental response, which accompanies the report, indicates that the report and its conclusions have been noted. I should make the point that I have introduced significant changes in the focus of Ciste na Gaeilge since the period under review to ensure that it remains an effective mechanism for supporting current priorities in relation to support of the Irish language outside the Gaeltacht. These changes in focus include support for initiatives to underpin the status of Irish as an EU official and working language and assistance for the work of the EU Institutions in that regard, including translation of EU terminology into Irish, support for the teaching of Irish at 3rd level overseas, placenames research bursaries and support for development of DVDs for children.

I am confident that Ciste na Gaeilge will continue to have an important role in the future, particularly an important supporting role on the ground in Ireland, arising from the 20 Year Strategy for the Irish Language that is in preparation at present.

Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

155 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cathain a bheidh scéim Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 á lorg aige ón bPost, agus aontaithe leis. [33573/08]

Dírím aird an Teachta ar an bhfreagra a thug mé ar Cheisteanna Uimh 1194 go 1269 uaidh den 24 Meán Fómhair 2008.

Stádas na Gaeilge.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

156 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cén ról atá aige i gcur i bhfeidhm na caibidle den chlár rialtais dár teideal An Ghaeilge agus an Ghaeltacht agus cén dul chun cinn atá déanta aige maidir leis. [33577/08]

Brian O'Shea

Question:

158 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Brian O’Shea den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an gcríochnófar agus an bhfoilseofar an straitéis fiche bliain don Ghaeilge roimh dheireadh na bliana; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [33506/08]

Tógfaidh mé Ceisteanna Uimhir 156 agus Uimhir 158 le chéile.

Mar Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta, tá ról lárnach agam i gcur i bhfeidhm na caibidile atá luaite ag an Teachta. Tá tuarascáil maidir leis an dul chun cinn atá bainte amach go dáta i ndáil leis na spriocanna éagsúla i gClár Comhaontaithe an Rialtais foilsithe ar shuíomh idirlín Roinn an Taoisigh ag http://www.taoiseach.gov.ie/irish/index.asp?locID=594&docID=4018

I measc na spriocanna ábhartha atá luaite, áirítear:

Dul chun cinn leis an bplean straitéiseach 20 bliain a bheidh dírithe ar fhás agus fhorbairt na Gaeilge, chomh maith leis an dátheangachas;

Feidhmiú an Choiste Rialtais atá bunaithe chun breathnú ar shaincheisteanna a tháinig chun cinn sa tuarascáil ar an Staidéar Teangeolaíoch ar Úsáid na Gaeilge sa Ghaeltacht agus chun teacht ar chomhaontú maidir le plean gníomhaíochta comhtháite d'fhonn todhchaí na Gaeilge mar theanga phobail sa Ghaeltacht a chinntiú;

Cúnamh agus tacaíocht a sholáthar trí Chiste na Gaeilge mo Roinne-se agus ó Fhoras na Gaeilge do sheirbhísí éagsúla Gaeilge, maraon le seirbhísí aistriúcháin, go háirithe i gcomhthéacs Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla agus stádas na Gaeilge mar theanga oifigiúil agus oibre de chuid an Aontais Eorpaigh;

Tacaíocht ó Údarás na Gaeltachta trína chuid gníomhaíochtaí le forbairt eacnamaíoch, shóisialta agus chultúrtha phobal na Gaeltachta, ar a n-áirítear seirbhísí naíonraí agus óige, agus le scéimeanna táirgiúla fostaíochta agus margaíochta a chur i gcrích; agus

Comhoibriú leanúnach leis an Roinn Oideachais agus Eolaíochta le go gcuirfear an Ghaeilge chun cinn sa chóras oideachais ag gach leibhéal.

Mar a dúirt me cheana sa Teach, tá sé i gceist go mbeidh Straitéis 20 bliain don Ghaeilge curtha faoi bhráid an Rialtais roimh dheiridh na bliana agus go foilseofar é tar éis dó a bheith glactha ag an Rialtas.

National Drugs Strategy.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

157 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the plans proposed or the action that is or has taken place in relation to the misuse of illicit drugs and alcohol in the south east region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33514/08]

Initiatives to tackle substance misuse in the south east are co-ordinated by the South Eastern Regional Drugs Task Force (SERDTF) which covers the counties of Wexford, Carlow, Kilkenny, Tipperary South and Waterford.

The SERDTF co-ordinates a number of activities covering the areas of treatment, rehabilitation, education, prevention and research and, to date, approximately €4m has been provided to implement the Task Force's strategic plans.

In addition the Deputy should note that:

Both Carlow Town and Waterford City have received significant funding under the Young Peoples Facilities & Services Fund (YPFSF). To date, Waterford has received almost €6m of which approx. €2.5m is for capital developments while Carlow has received approx €2.5m of which almost €1.5m represents capital funding. The Fund assists in the development of youth facilities and services in disadvantaged areas where a significant drug problem exists or has the potential to develop; and

I recently allocated just under €1m to three projects in the SERDTF under the Regional Youth Initiative which provided capital funding for the development of youth facilities in RDTF areas not covered by the YPFSF. Two of these projects are located in Co. Tipperary and the third based in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. I am confident that these projects will play a meaningful and ongoing role in diverting young people away from the dangers of drug use.

In this context, it should also be noted that my predecessor, Minister of State Pat Carey T.D., announced the expansion of the Fund earlier this year — in line with the commitment in the Programme for Government — and Wexford Town was selected as one of the new towns to be covered by the Fund. Consistent with the Taoiseach's announcement in May this year, my Department is currently progressing an Order to transfer the functions and duties relating to the Young Peoples Facilities & Services Fund (YPFSF) to the Office of the Minister for Youth Affairs and Children.

The SERDTF has also benefited from my recent announcement regarding funding allocations under the Rehabilitation and Cocaine Initiative. Funding has been allocated to Aislinn Adolescent Addiction Treatment Centre under the Cocaine Initiative and funding was also made available for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Training on a cross-Task Force basis. The Cornmarket project, through the Wexford Area Partnership, has also received funding under the Rehabilitation Initiative.

Finally, the Deputy should note that projects in the SERDTF have also benefited from funding under the Premises Initiative which provides for the accommodation needs of community drugs projects. The Cornmarket Project was awarded almost €95,000 under this Initiative and Gorey CBDI was awarded over €220,000.

Question No. 158 answered with Question No. 156.

Community Development.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

159 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of grants paid out under the community support for older people scheme for the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33501/08]

The Community Support for Older People Scheme is managed by my Department and is administered locally by community and voluntary groups. The Scheme provides grants to support the installation of socially monitored personal alarms, smoke alarms, external lighting and essential items of physical security such as window and door locks and door chains. Interior emergency lighting is funded for qualifying older people living on our offshore islands. The number of grants paid out under scheme for the past three years is set out in the table:

Year

Number of Grants paid to Community Groups

Value of the Grants Paid

2006

419

2,201,885

2007

785

3,708,019

2008 to end September

532

2,666,305

National Drugs Strategy.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

160 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number and location of dedicated cocaine addiction workers employed by the local drugs task force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33498/08]

As the Deputy may be aware, there are 14 Local Drugs Task Force (LDTF) areas — 12 are located in Dublin, one in Cork City and one in Bray, Co. Wicklow.

There are almost 400 people employed — both full and part-time — in a wide range of projects across the 14 LDTFs. These workers include addiction counsellors, outreach workers, project managers and co-ordinators, family support workers, education/prevention officers etc. However, as poly-drug use is on the increase, these workers deal with a range of issues — including but not exclusively — issues related to cocaine misuse.

It is worth noting, however, that under the Emerging Needs Fund, seven dedicated cocaine specific projects were approved for funding in 2005/06. A further nine projects aimed at poly-drug/cocaine use are also being supported under that Fund. Over €1m is provided annually through the National Drugs Strategy to support these projects and I recently approved an additional €300,000 to further develop and enhance four of these initiatives.

The Deputy should also note that my Department provided funding for four pilot cocaine projects to examine different methods of treatment for cocaine use, as well as a training initiative for frontline personnel to deal with cocaine issues. In this regard, I recently approved almost €150,000 for one of these projects — located in Tallaght — to further develop their response to cocaine.

Finally, it should be noted that a further €750,000 is being provided this year to address cocaine use in local communities across both Regional and Local Drugs Task Force areas. The majority of this allocation will fund dedicated cocaine and poly-drug workers and 12 such proposals were approved — seven of which are located in Local Drugs Task Force areas. The funding will also provide for cross-Task Force cocaine training.

Question No. 161 answered with Question No. 146.

Departmental Funding.

Jack Wall

Question:

162 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if grants are available from his Department to promote an event of national importance to rural Ireland (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33497/08]

My Department has not provided direct grants to the organisers of the event in question. However, as the Deputy will be aware, each year my Department, and a number of the bodies that come within its ambit participate at the event to which he refers, and use the event as an opportunity to engage with customers and stakeholders.

In addition to this, support is provided by my Department, to Comhar LEADER na hÉireann, under the LEADER Programme for the LEADER Food & Craft Villages at this event. These Food & Craft Villages are very popular attractions and showcase some of the best projects of the LEADER programme in these important areas of rural enterprise and development.

The Deputy will also be aware that my Department operates a number of grant programmes and schemes and details of these, including eligibility criteria, are available on the Department's website at www.pobail.ie.

It is open to any group or organisation to apply for funding under these programmes and schemes.

Foclóir Leictreonach.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

163 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Michael D. Higgins den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cathain a bheidh an foclóir leictreonach Gaeilge-Béarla atá ullmhú ag Foras na Gaeilge ar fáil; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [33509/08]

D'fhoilsigh Foras na Gaeilge leagan leictreonach d'Fhoclóir Gaeilge-Béarla Uí Dhónaill i mí na Samhna 2007 ar dhlúthdhiosca. Is é WinGléacht an teideal atá ar an bhfoclóir leictreonach sin agus tuigim go bhfuil sé le ceannach ar €25. Sa chomhthéacs sin, is fiú an suíomh www.focal.ie a lua, tionscadal eile de chuid Fhoras na Gaeilge, i gcomhpháirtíocht le Fiontar DCU agus Ollscoil Lampeter sa Bhreatain Bheag. Tá fáil ar bhreis agus 150,000 téarma ar an suíomh seo i láthair na huaire.

National Drugs Strategy.

Willie Penrose

Question:

164 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the research he has carried out within his Department or with other agencies or internationally through the World Health Organisation or other EU countries to determine the reason healthy activities such as sport and recreation are not succeeding as alternatives against the misuse of illicit substances such as drugs as highlighted in the recent report as published by the national drugs advisory committee on drugs in relation to young adults; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33520/08]

Research by the National Advisory Committee on Drugs (NACD) has showed that illegal drug use is a youth phenomenon in particular. It is important, therefore, to understand that many factors come into play when people decide to experiment with drugs. The risk factors associated with problematic drug use have been researched by the NACD and include the following:

Early school leaving/poor educational attainment;

History of unemployment;

Poor mental health history;

Family conflict/breakdown;

History of addiction;

Involvement in crime;

Anti-social behaviour; and

Social Networks (drug using peers or not).

As the Deputy will appreciate, the more these predisposing factors exist for an individual the greater the vulnerability to — and risk of — drug use. At the community and individual level, the evidence shows that prevention programmes should focus on targeting risk and developing protective factors. These help to reduce the likelihood of experimentation and focus on individual characteristics and family, educational, peer group and community factors.

In particular, there is evidence to suggest that the following types of interventions can be effective provided they meet specific conditions:

Community-based programmes targeting geographical areas of socio/economic disadvantage;

Early intervention programmes for children displaying risk factors

Family programmes — can delay or prevent drug misuse; and

LifeSkills Training has some prevention effects — but mainly in relation to legal substances and students who are not already at risk.

International evidence suggests that prevention works at three levels through (i) the use of universal strategies at the general population level, (ii) selective strategies used at the community level and (iii) indicative strategies aimed at the individual.

While the provision of sport and recreational facilities may have a role to play, they will not, in themselves, provide the solution to the misuse of illicit substances. Ultimately, I believe that it is only through addressing the risk factors through both the National Drugs Strategy — and the broader social inclusion agenda — that we can ultimately reduce the prevalence of problem drug use in our society.

Irish Language.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

165 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the grant assistance available to community groups who wish to begin Irish classes in non-Gaeltacht areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33511/08]

While my Department does not provide direct funding for the provision of such classes, I am aware that assistance is available from local VECs to local communities who wish to provide educational classes, including Irish language classes, and that advice and assistance is also available from Foras na Gaeilge for this purpose.

Rural Development.

Denis Naughten

Question:

166 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when the Leader companies will be allocated funding for allocation of grants under new rural development programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33559/08]

The Deputy may be aware that the process for selecting Local Action Groups to deliver the LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 is now at an advanced stage. I expect to announce the selection of the Groups to implement the Programme and the allocation of funding later this month. I anticipate that the Programme will be open to applications to the Local Action Groups for funding shortly thereafter.

Irish Language Agencies.

Mary Upton

Question:

167 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the consultations he has had with the grant aided Irish language agencies funded by his Department in regard to amalgamation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33522/08]

I am informed by Foras na Gaeilge that it has commenced a review of the 19 Irish language organisations to which it provides funding on an ongoing basis and that discussions have taken place with those organisations in relation to the review.

I might also mention that, in accordance with a decision of the North/South Ministerial Council, the functions and funding of Bord na Leabhar Gaeilge transferred to Foras na Gaeilge with effect from 1 January 2008. The Council also decided at its meeting on 4 July last that the functions, staffing and funding of Colmcille in Ireland should transfer to Foras na Gaeilge and arrangements to that end are in hand.

I can assure the Deputy that the effectiveness of public funding to the full range of Irish language organisations in achieving the Government's objectives in relation to the language is something that I am keeping under continuing review.

Care of the Elderly.

Joan Burton

Question:

168 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on a grant in respect of house alarms for older people in view of the success of socially monitored alarms and the need for the older population here to feel secure in their homes. [33500/08]

The Community Support for Older People Scheme is managed by my Department and is administered locally by community and voluntary groups. The Scheme provides grants to support the installation of socially monitored personal alarms, smoke alarms, external lighting and essential items of physical security such as window and door locks and door chains. Interior emergency lighting is funded for qualifying older people living on our offshore islands.

While the type and variety of equipment eligible for grant support is kept under constant review, I have no proposals at this time to extend the Scheme to provide for household alarm systems, security cameras or to subsidise the monitoring costs of alarms.

Tourism Industry.

John O'Mahony

Question:

169 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Taoiseach the amount spent by tourists here in 2006, 2007 and to date in 2008 with a breakdown of the visiting countries in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33608/08]

The CSO publishes annual figures on the estimated total expenditure for all overseas visits to Ireland by non-residents by the following country groupings: Great Britain, Other Europe, USA and Canada, and Other Areas. A breakdown of expenditure by individual country is not available. The relevant figures for the requested years are detailed in the following tables.

Estimated Expenditure by Overseas Visitors to Ireland classified by Area of Residence 2006-2007 (€m)*

Area of Residence

2006

2007

Great Britain

1,373

1,388

Other Europe

1,352

1,400

USA and Canada

803

806

Other Areas

265

326

Total Estimated Expenditure

3,793

3,920

*The figures in the above table exclude all international fares and fares received by Irish carriers.

Estimated Expenditure by Overseas Visitors to Ireland classified by Area of Residence Q1 2006-2008 (€m)*

Area of Residence

2006

2007

2008

Great Britain

245

250

271

Other Europe

187

217

224

USA and Canada

107

114

99

Other Areas

41

61

51

Total Estimated Expenditure

578

642

644

*The figures in the above table exclude all international fares and fares received by Irish carriers.

There were 1,542,000 Overseas Visits to Ireland who spent an estimated €644m in Q1 2008. This compares to 1,478,000 Overseas Visits in Q1 2007 with an estimated expenditure of €642m. Figures for the second quarter of 2008 will be published on Friday October 10th.

Legislative Responsibilities.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

170 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Taoiseach if, in the context of better regulation, he will request all Ministers to produce a list of in-force legislation for which their respective Departments have responsibility; if each such list will be made available in a standardised form on the website of the relevant Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33268/08]

The Office of the Attorney General is responsible for the maintenance of the electronic Irish Statute Book (www.irishstatutebook.ie). The eISB currently contains all Acts passed in the years 1922 to 2008 up to and including Act Number 12 of 2008 and all Statutory Instruments made since 1922, up to and including SI No. 350 of 2005. It also contains a link to pdf versions of Statutory Instruments that have been produced through the Electronic Statutory Instruments System which was introduced in 2007. The Office of the Attorney General is currently engaged in a process to update the eISB to include Acts 13 to 17 of 2008 by the end of October and Statutory Instruments made in the period between mid 2005 and 2008 by early 2009.

The Law Reform Commission has the task of updating the Legislation Directory (formerly the Chronological Tables) which is also part of the eISB and currently covers the years 1922 to 2005. The main purpose of the Directory is to document modifications made to primary legislation by subsequent legislation and it is therefore a very useful source of information on the current state of the law. The Commission published a consultation document on the Directory in July of this year in order to provide a focus for public discussion on how the Directory can best serve its users in terms of content provision and accessibility. The closing date for receipt of submissions to the Law Reform Commission is 23 October.

The Oireachtas website is another useful source of information on primary legislation and includes listings of all Acts passed by the Oireachtas since 1922 and all Bills introduced in the Oireachtas since 1997.

In addition to these overarching websites, some Departments already provide legislative information relating to their areas of responsibility on their individual websites. This approach increases the accessibility of legislation for citizens in line with the Government's commitments on Better Regulation. In this context, I will be asking all Ministers to ensure that, in line with best practice, legislation for which they have responsibility is listed on their Departmental websites in a transparent and consistent manner.

Criminal Prosecutions.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

171 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach the number of members of organised crime gangs against whom prosecutions have failed in the past five years to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33224/08]

Statistics on crime are compiled by the CSO from information recorded by the Garda Síochána. The statistical information does not include any information on whether a person charged with an offence is a member of an organised crime gang and, hence, the information requested by the Deputy is not available.

Job Initiative.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

172 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has held discussions with the Department of Finance regarding new job support initiatives in view of the rise in job losses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33294/08]

Discussions with the Department of Finance are ongoing in the context of the Budget 2009 and these discussions will determine the levels of funding for job support initiatives.

In the meantime, FÁS is working to quickly respond to the changing employment market. FÁS is implementing a range of short and medium term actions for those most concerned. It is increasing flexibility in the delivery of employment and training programmes so that those affected by the slowdown and by unemployment can be assisted appropriately and in good time.

In particular:

FÁS and the Department of Social and Family Affairs have agreed that redundant apprentices will be referred immediately to FÁS rather than wait for three months on the Live Register as was the case before. FÁS has also established a training fund to enable a speedy response to identified re-training needs for low skilled and redundant craft workers.

FÁS is, with the Local Employment Services provided by Area-Based Partnerships, currently gearing up its Employment Services further to provide increased capacity for expected increased referrals from the Live Register.

A range of actions are also being implemented by FÁS for those affected by the construction slowdown, including:

putting in place training to upskill construction workers in relation to emerging needs, such as the installation of new technologies, environmental activity and compliance and regulatory work;

business training and mentoring for workers from larger enterprises entering self-employment;

promoting access for mobile workers to construction jobs elsewhere in the EU;

developing measures to ensure continuity in the apprenticeship system, such as:

assisting redundant apprentices to source employment, in order that they can complete their apprenticeship by receiving the appropriate on-the-job training and undertaking the associated competence based assessments;

allowing apprentices who are made redundant to progress to their next off-the-job training phase of their apprenticeship, without having to do the next on-the-job phase first;

establishing a regional register of redundant apprentices. Employers who are considering recruiting apprentices will be requested to consider the employment of redundant apprentices listed on the register.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

173 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in her Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33335/08]

The website of the Government's climate change awareness campaign, www.change.ie., provides a carbon calculator which enables everyone to work out their own carbon footprint. Using this tool, my Department has estimated that the carbon emissions arising in the course of my ministerial functions amounted to 34.71 tonnes in the year to 30 September 2008. Of this, 12.63 tonnes related to air travel, and includes the air travel of my predecessor, from October 2007. Air travel is fully offset under the Government's carbon offsetting scheme for official travel. There is no equivalent figure for the previous year, as I did not take up the post until May 2008.

On the same basis, my Department has calculated the following carbon emissions arising from the functions of the Ministers of State in the year to 30 September 2008: Minister of State (Labour Affairs): 24.86 tonnes, of which 8.72 tonnes arose from air travel and is therefore offset; Minister of State (Trade and Commerce): 32.03 tonnes, of which 12.11 tonnes arose from air travel and is therefore offset; Minister of State (Science, Technology and Innovation): 16.82 tonnes, of which 6.51 tonnes arose from air travel and is therefore offset. Dr. Jimmy Devins T.D. was appointed to the position of Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation on 13 May, 2008. The previous months relate to the former Minister of State, Mr. Michael Ahern, T.D.

Work Life Balance.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

174 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has conducted a value for money review of the most recent work life balance campaign; the outcome of that review; the matrixes which were used to assess the success or otherwise of the campaign; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33446/08]

A value for money review of the 2008 work life balance campaign has not yet been conducted by my Department as part of the Value for Money and Policy Review Initiative which is intended to prioritise significant areas of expenditure within the context of my Department's overall Vote.

The National Framework Committee for Work Life Balance Policies organised the 8th annual Work Life Balance Day on 29th February this year. The Committee, which is chaired by my Department, comprises representatives of the Social Partners, other Government Departments and the Equality Authority. The Committee was established in 2000 under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness and has been continued under each subsequent National Partnership agreement.

Programmes for Government.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

175 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which the increases in public sector pay agreed with the social partners will be linked to improvements in performance and productivity in accordance with commitments made in the programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33267/08]

The Programme for Government commits the Government to maintaining the success of Social Partnership by working with the social partners to ensure the full implementation of the Towards 2016 agreement and ensuring that pay improvements for public sector workers continue to be linked to delivery and verification of agreed improvements in public services.

Towards 2016 sets out a mechanism for the verification of progress at sectoral, organisational and grade level in the Public Service through the establishment of a Performance Verification Group for each of the sectors — health, education and local authority sectors, the Civil Service, the Garda Síochána and Defence Forces. Under the terms of Towards 2016, payment of each of the Public Service pay increases is dependent on verification of satisfactory achievement in relation to co-operation with flexibility and ongoing change, including co-operation with satisfactory implementation of the agenda for modernisation set out in the agreement, maintenance of stable industrial relations and the absence of industrial action in respect of any matters covered by the agreement.

Through the performance verification process, it has been possible to establish that there has been co-operation with flexibility and ongoing change, stable industrial relations have been broadly maintained, and there has been co-operation with satisfactory implementation of the agenda for modernisation set out in the agreement. There has been ample evidence of significant improvements in areas such as financial management, human resources management, regulatory reform, eGovernment initiatives, and customer service delivery.

The new Transitional Agreement under Towards 2016 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. The commitments under Towards 2016 will continue to be progressed in this agreement along with additional commitments to be progressed in the Transitional Agreement. The arrangements whereby the payment of increases is dependent on the verification of satisfactory achievement of modernisation commitments, including improvements in performance and productivity, will also continue in the new agreement.

Tax Code.

James Bannon

Question:

176 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Finance if he will extend the end date of the farm consolidation stamp duty relief scheme introduced in late 2007, from June 2009 to June 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33728/08]

James Bannon

Question:

177 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Finance if he will remove the unnecessary constraints which are contained in the qualifying conditions for the farm consolidation stamp duty scheme to maximise the potential of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33729/08]

James Bannon

Question:

178 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Finance when the stamp duty rate bands applying to farmland will be reformed in a manner similar to the reforms for residential property; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33730/08]

James Bannon

Question:

196 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Finance his plans for the introduction of targeted capital gains tax relief on the proceeds from the sale of farmland when said proceeds are used to acquire other land for the purpose of consolidation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33731/08]

James Bannon

Question:

198 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Finance his plans for the extension of stock relief and stamp duty relief for young farmers to support investment and structural reforms in agriculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33734/08]

James Bannon

Question:

201 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Finance his plans for the reform of the capital gains tax relief on the dissolution of joint ownership introduced in the 2008 budget to support investment and structural reforms in agriculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33738/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 176, 177, 178, 196, 198 and 201 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, it is not customary for the Minister of Finance to comment on possible tax changes in advance of the Budget.

Jack Wall

Question:

179 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be furnished with a P21 balancing statement for 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33271/08]

I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a PAYE balancing statement form P21 for the year 2007 will issue shortly to the person.

EU Directives.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

180 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if he will use his discretion when transposing the Payment Services Directive to prohibit charges by retailers for the use of payment instruments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33307/08]

I refer to the answer to Question No. 55 of 22 May 2008.

Article 52(3) of the Directive prohibits payment service providers from preventing merchants applying a surcharge or offering a reduction for the use of a given payment instrument. This is to ensure that the costs of efficient and inefficient payment instruments are transparent. Otherwise, all consumers would bear the costs of inefficient payment instruments as merchants would pass on charges in the form of a generally higher price level. This Article does allow Member States to forbid or limit the right to request charges. However, this can only be done if two conditions are satisfied, namely, that such a measure is consistent with the need to encourage competition and promote use of efficient payment instruments.

Following its earlier consultation on options for transposing the Directive, my Department has recently concluded a second consultation on the text of the draft transposing regulations. My Department is considering whether to avail of the discretion in Article 52(3) having regard to submissions received.

Departmental Staff.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

181 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the number of civil servants employed at principal officer level and above; and the annual savings to the Exchequer from a 3% wage cut for those at this level and above; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33308/08]

The number of civil servants employed at Principal Officer and above is about 1,750 at present. Based on current numbers 3% of the paybill for these staff would amount to approximately €6 million in a full year or about 0.3% of the overall paybill for the civil service.

Tax Code.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

182 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance if, as a result of the publication over the weekend of the fact that the Revenue Commissioners failed to tax travel benefits awarded to their staff, he will confirm that this meant that the employer, in this case the Revenue Commissioners, carried the responsibility for tax that should rightfully have been deducted from its employees; if he will further confirm that this situation does not arise in relation to other Departments or county councils, where staff have the option to travel on visits directly from their home instead of travelling from their place of work; the investigations that have taken place in order to satisfy him that the figures produced by the Revenue Commissioners represent the true figures and that there are not other perks that are not being taxed within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33310/08]

The Deputy raises a number of distinct questions and, for ease of reference, I will address each separately.

Firstly, I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that, as regards the fiduciary taxes (i.e. taxes collected by a third party on behalf of the State) such as VAT, PAYE, etc, the person responsible for accounting for each such fiduciary tax is the person who has a statutory obligation to both deduct and remit same. In this instance, the Revenue Commissioners, as employer has that obligation and has accounted for, and paid, the tax that should have been deducted under the PAYE system, together with interest and penalties.

Secondly, the Deputy refers to matters pertaining in Government Departments and county councils as regards staff having the option to travel on visits directly from their home instead of travelling from their place of work. I am informed by my officials and by the Revenue Commissioners that the long standing practice in this regard is that where an office holder or employee, in the performance of the duties of his/her office or employment, begins an official business journey directly from home or returns directly to home, then the expenses of travel and subsistence that may be reimbursed without deduction of tax are the lesser of those incurred on the journey between

(a) home and the temporary work location; or

(b) the normal place of work and the temporary work location.

This position remains unchanged. Thirdly, I am assured by the Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners that she is satisfied that the investigations in her office established the full extent of taxable benefits, and that procedures have been put in place to prevent any recurrence.

As regards my Department, all remuneration is subject to tax where appropriate, in the normal way through the PAYE system.

In addition, I am informed by the Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners that Revenue officials made presentations to the Heads of Finance of Government Departments and the Finance Officers of Local Authorities during this year with the specific view of reminding them of their tax compliance responsibilities and that a range of compliance checks will be carried out on such bodies in 2009.

Regarding the Deputies final remark, it is important to point out that the Revenue staff affected by the BIK settlement worked in IT and Customs areas of the organisation. Furthermore, when Revenue staff visit businesses either in the private or public sectors to carry out an audit, they do so in accordance with the published Code of Practice for Revenue Auditors. This Code recognises that mistakes happen and provides for a range of penalties depending on the circumstances and the nature of the default. Revenue as employer was treated in exactly the same manner as any other employer in similar circumstances.

Michael Ring

Question:

183 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Finance if an unregistered farmer can make a VAT reclaim for specific works (details supplied). [33320/08]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that under the terms of the Value-Added Tax (Refund of Tax) (No. 25) Order, 1993, SI No. 266 of 1993, a farmer who is not registered for VAT may claim a refund of VAT paid by him or her in relation to the construction, extension, alteration or reconstruction of farm buildings and structures, including farm roads, on lands owned or occupied by him or her, where the works in question are designed for use solely or mainly for the purposes of the farming business.

Forestry is an agricultural production activity for the purposes of VAT law. Thus, VAT paid by a farmer in relation to the construction of a road into a forest, including VAT on the materials and hire of machinery used in the construction, may be reclaimed under the terms of that Refund Order.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

184 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Finance his carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in his Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33337/08]

The website of the Government's climate change awareness campaign, www.change.ie, provides a carbon calculator which enables everyone to work out their own carbon footprint. Using this tool, my Department has estimated that the carbon emissions in respect of air travel arising in the course of the ministerial functions of the Minister for Finance, amounted to 5.5 tonnes in the year to 30 September 2008, which will be fully offset under the Government's carbon offsetting scheme for official travel. The figures for the previous year are of a similar level. The Department of Justice has advised that the figures in respect of official travel by car are not readily available.

The Office of Public Works has advised that the carbon emissions arising from the functions of the Minister of State at the Office of Public Works, in the year to 30 September 2008, were 9.34 tonnes of which 4.32 tonnes arose from air travel. The figures for the previous year were 13.26 tonnes of which 2.28 arose from air travel.

Departmental Staff.

Joan Burton

Question:

185 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the amount and proportion of the increase in the public sector pay bill which accrued as a result of incremental pay increases for each year since 2000 and including forecasts for 2008 and 2009, and for each Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33345/08]

Year-to-year increases in allocations would not normally be granted to allow for increments. In the normal way, the overall cost of increments for some staff on incremental scales should be offset by reductions in cost arising from retirements or other movements by staff on higher incremental points and their replacement by staff on lower points.

There is no increased provision for increments in the paybill for 2008 and no increased provision will be made in 2009 either.

Tax Code.

Denis Naughten

Question:

186 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Finance the number of applicants who received a tax refund on maternity benefit payments in 2007; the value involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33371/08]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the information requested regarding the number of applicants who received tax refunds on maternity benefit payments in 2007 and their value cannot be provided. This is because the PAYE system does not identify the reason giving rise to a review of an individual's tax liability. It is the outcome of the review that is recorded — for example, whether an overpayment or underpayment of tax arises or whether an additional tax credit or allowance is being granted.

Any individual who wishes to have their tax liability for 2007 reviewed in the context of having received payment of maternity benefit, which is tax free, should submit a claim accordingly to their local Revenue office.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

187 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the reason the Revenue Commissioners, under the provisions of the Finance Act 2002, can deem a ship as qualifying for inclusion in the scheme popularly known as tonnage tax (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33400/08]

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

188 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the number of ships registered for tonnage tax in view of the fact that his Department has indicated that there are 20 companies with 100 ships registered for tonnage tax and the Department of Transport has indicated that there are 41 commercial ships on the Irish Register of Shipping; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33401/08]

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

189 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance the way, in view of the fact that Ireland has ratified the relevant sections of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which requires that a genuine link exists between the country of registration of a seagoing commercial ship; and that of the beneficial owners, and it is therefore to be presumed that Ireland as a sovereign nation, upholds that principle, it is possible that the Revenue Commissioners can, under the provisions of the Finance Act 2002, deem a ship as qualifying for inclusion in the scheme popularly known as tonnage tax irrespective of where such a ship is registered and that the Revenue Commissioners even allow ships to be included, that are part of the infamous flag of convenience system, where one of the principle characteristics is that there is no genuine link between the beneficial owners of a ship and where it is registered and flagged. [33418/08]

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

194 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance the way it is possible that the Revenue Commissioners can, under the provisions of the Finance Act 2002, deem a ship as qualifying for inclusion in the scheme known as tonnage tax irrespective of where such a ship is registered and that the Revenue Commissioners can allow ships to be included that are part of the flag of convenience system (details supplied). [33631/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 187, 188, 189 and 194 together.

The tonnage tax scheme for shipping companies was provided for in the Finance Act 2002 and introduced in 2003 following the granting of State aid approval by the European Commission. In common with most other EU member states which operate Commission approved tonnage tax schemes, it is not a requirement of the Irish tonnage tax scheme that qualifying ships be registered under the national flag. Accordingly, the number of ships included under the tonnage tax regime would not necessarily correspond with the number of ships listed under the Irish Register of Shipping.

While it is not a condition of the Irish tonnage tax scheme that ships be registered in Ireland, I would point out that a central requirement of the scheme is that seagoing commercial ships are operated under the strategic and commercial management of qualifying shipping companies located in Ireland. In this regard companies qualifying for tonnage tax are required to undertake key management functions in the State in relation to ships included under the scheme thereby providing a clear link between the operation of these ships and their management and control by Irish based companies.

Departmental Expenditure.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

190 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the amount of money, with regard to his announcement of 8 July 2008, that has been saved on advertising and consultancy costs in the period from 8 July 2008 to date in 2008; the amount he expects to save by the end of 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33449/08]

The Government decision of 8 July in relation to expenditure savings in the remainder of 2008 identifies savings of €82.732m to be delivered across the Finance group of votes. The proportion of these savings to be realised in the Consultancy & Advertising category are set out in the following table.

Department/Office

Savings Requirement 08/07/08-31/12/08

Advertising Spend 08/07/08-30/09/08

Consultancy Spend 08/07/08-30/09/08

€’000

€’000

€’000

Comptroller and Auditor General

76

0

91

Department of Finance

222

97

56

Office of the Ombudsman

44

36

3

Office of the Revenue Commissioners

259

551

116

Public Appointments Service & CPSA

299

358

136

State Laboratory

6

5

7

Valuation Office

38

6

12

Office of the Appeals Commissioner

0

0

0

Advertising and consultancy budgets are a constituent part of a general subhead budget and it is not therefore possible to separately identify the budget or savings specific to this category for the period in question. However a range of measures have been implemented to ensure cost savings are achieved, including pre-approval of all advertising and consultancy expenditure. The target savings set out above will be achieved.

In the time available, the Office of Public Works was unable to collate the information sought. I have asked that office to communicate the relevant information direct to the Deputy.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

191 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the amount of money, with regard to his announcement of 8 July 2008, that has been saved on the cost of tribunals in the period from 8 July 2008 to date in 2008; the amount he expects to save by the end of 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33450/08]

The costs of specific Tribunals are met from the Votes of the Ministers with responsibility for these Tribunals, and the matter should be raised with the relevant Minister.

Departmental Staff.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

192 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the projected savings to be made if all civil servants above principal officer level, and employees in State agencies at the same level, were to take a pay cut of 3% in 2009. [33468/08]

Based on current numbers, 3% of the paybill for all civil servants above principal officer level would amount to about €1.3 million in a full year.

As regards the wider public service, information on the paybill for those at particular grade levels in individual state agencies and other public service organisations is not readily available in my Department and details would have to be sought through each of the relevant Departments.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

193 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the projected savings to be made if all civil servants above principal officer level, and employees in State agencies at the same level, continued to have their pay frozen for the duration of the new pay deal. [33469/08]

The new draft Agreement, if ratified, will cover a period of 21 months from 1 October 2008 to 30 June 2010 in the public service. The draft agreement provides for a pay pause of 11 months in the public service followed by increases as follows:

An increase of 3.5% from 1 September 2009; and

An increase of 2.5% from 1 June 2010 — except for those earning up to and including €430.49 per week (€22,463 per annum) on commencement of the second phase where a 3% increase will apply.

The cost of these increases for civil servants above the level of Principal Officer would be approximately € 470,000 in 2009. In 2010 the cumulative cost would be about €780,000 in the period up to the end of the Agreement on 30 June 2010. The cumulative cost for the full year of 2010 would be about €2m.

As regards the wider public service, information on the numbers at particular grade levels in individual state agencies and other public service organisations is not readily available in my Department and details would have to be sought through each of the relevant Departments.

Question No. 194 answered with Question No. 187.

Bank Deposits.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

195 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Finance the number and value of deposits in Irish banks which are in excess of €100,000 and which are covered by State guarantee; the number and value of such deposits which are personal accounts; the number which are business accounts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33643/08]

The Deputy will be aware that, since the Government decision of 20 September 2008 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 Government has now put in place a guarantee arrangement to safeguard all deposits (retail, commercial, institutional and interbank), covered bonds, senior debt and dated subordinated debt (lower tier II), with the following banks: Allied Irish Bank, Bank of Ireland, Anglo Irish Bank, Irish Life and Permanent, Irish Nationwide Building Society and the Educational Building Society and such specific subsidiaries as may be approved by Government following consultation with the Central Bank and the Financial Regulator.

Legislation to provide statutory effect to this decision, the Credit Institutions (Financial Support) Act 2008, was enacted by the Oireachtas on Thursday 2 October.

For Irish deposits with Irish-based subsidiaries of foreign banks that are regulated by the Irish Financial Regulator, €100,000 per depositor per institution will be guaranteed by the statutory Deposit Guarantee Scheme. This guarantee level will also apply to credit union savers. Branches of foreign credit institutions authorised in the European Economic Area (EEA) and operating in Ireland are entitled to apply to benefit from the enhanced guarantee on a ‘top-up' basis. My Department is currently preparing legislation to give statutory effect to this increase from the date of my announcement.

My Department has been informed by the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland (CBSFAI) that the total value of deposits owned by Irish residents is approximately €179 billion. This is an aggregate figure based on the Central Bank Monthly Statistics up to the end of August 2008.

While the CBSFAI does not routinely collect disaggregated data on deposits owned by Irish residents, such as the value and number of personal accounts and business accounts in Irish banks, I have forwarded the Question to the CBFSAI, which will reply directly to the Deputy.

Question No. 196 answered with Question No. 176.

Alternative Energy Projects.

James Bannon

Question:

197 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Finance if he will double the capital allowance for 6,000 installations as a pilot project to promote investment by farmers in micro generation of renewable energy from a range of sources, wind, solar and anaerobic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33732/08]

Plant and machinery used for the generation of energy from renewable sources already qualifies for capital allowances at the rate of 12½ per annum over 8 years. Allowing farmers double capital allowances would be excessively generous and would inevitably lead to calls for similar concessions from other sectors.

In addition I should point out that there are already tax incentives in operation which relate to renewable energy. Investments in companies engaged in renewable energy generation may qualify for the Business Expansion Scheme (BES) tax relief. Individual investors holding a BES equity investment in such companies for a minimum period of five years can benefit from tax relief, at their marginal rate, in respect of investments of up to €150,000 per year.

Question No. 198 answered with Question No. 176.

Agriculture Reforms.

James Bannon

Question:

199 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Finance his plans for the extension of stock relief for partial destocking to support investment and structural reforms in agriculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33735/08]

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.

James Bannon

Question:

200 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Finance his plans for the extension of special capital allowance for investment in pollution control to support investment and structural reforms in agriculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33736/08]

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.

Question No. 201 answered with Question No. 176.

Tax Code.

James Bannon

Question:

202 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Finance his plans to defer the introduction of a carbon tax until full analyses by the Commission on Taxation to support investment and structural reforms in agriculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33739/08]

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. The Programme for Government includes a commitment to introduce a carbon tax/levy over the lifetime of the Government. With regard to Budget 2009, as the Deputy 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.

National Minimum Wage.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

203 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance when he proposes to commence discussions with the relevant parties to establish a forum, including the Department of Education and Science, IMPACT, SIPTU and the employer bodies in connection with school secretaries and caretakers with a view to establishing by the end of 2008 the factual position in schools regarding terms and conditions and commencing in late 2008 discussions on the proposal of the unions that an interim minimum wage should be established at an early stage and discussing during 2009 the manner in which the terms and conditions could be determined and the timetable for the application of revised terms that may be agreed; the appropriate arrangements for resolution of the disagreement that may arise between the parties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33820/08]

The arrangements referred to by the Deputy are to apply as part of the new draft Partnership Agreement. Some preliminary work has been undertaken and discussions will commence on ratification of the Agreement.

Tax Code.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

204 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance the action he has taken on foot of each of the conclusions reached in Section G, Volume III of the Review of Tax Schemes report contained in budget 2006; the anomalies identified in the report that have since been addressed in legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33832/08]

I take it that the Deputy is referring to the review of Tax Relief for Pensions Provision carried out jointly by the Revenue Commissioners and the Department of Finance in 2005, the report of which was published in 2006 as part of Volume III of the Budget 2006 Review of Tax Schemes — Internal Reviews of Certain Tax Schemes.

The main conclusions reached in the Review are set out in paragraph 15 of Part IV of the report and are appended to this reply.

In an effort to address the issues raised in the conclusions, the Review put forward, in paragraph 16, a number of options for change. Following consideration of these options, the then Minister for Finance and now Taoiseach, Mr Brian Cowen TD decided, in the interest of creating greater equity in the pensions tax relief system and to address the particular problems identified, to make a number of significant changes in relation to the tax regime for both pensions and Approved Retirement Funds in the 2006 Budget and Finance Act. The changes involved:

closing off excessive tax relieved funding for pensions through the imposition of a maximum allowable pension fund on retirement for tax purposes of €5m, with punitive tax on amounts drawn down in pension benefits in excess of that sum;

imposing a cumulative limit of 25% of this amount (€1.25m) on the maximum tax-free lump sum that can be taken on retirement; and

restricting the capacity of individuals to use Approved Retirement Funds (ARFs) as purely long-term tax-exempt vehicles by introducing the concept of an annual "notional distribution" from ARFs which is taxable at the ARF owner's marginal tax rate.

The combined impact of the above changes addressed, to a large degree, the concerns raised in the Review.

The fact that employer contributions to occupational pension schemes are not included within the employee age-related percentage limits and the overall earnings cap on pension contributions, was identified as an anomaly in the Review and considered among the options for change (Option 1, paragraph 16.2). However, the Review identified difficulties with such a course of action and rather than change the treatment of employer contributions, it was considered that the imposition of the limit on the maximum allowable tax relieved pension fund would be as effective, without giving rise to the difficulties identified in the Review.

Appendix: Conclusions of Review of Tax Relief for Pensions Provision

Current tax reliefs appear to be too generous in relation to individuals whose employers are in a position to make substantial tax deductible contributions to their schemes without any earnings cap or age related % limits applying, particularly in circumstances where the individuals themselves are in a position to influence the level of employer contributions.

While the rationale for granting tax relief on pension contributions is to ensure that individuals save for retirement, are not a burden on the state and can acquire a pension that takes some cognisance of their pre-retirement earning levels and lifestyle, the current regime which allows an individual to create a pension fund over a very short period with a closing value well within maximum benefit limits of c. €100 million, to take 25% of that as a tax free lump sum and place the remaining 75% in a tax exempt ARF, must be a matter of concern.

The current regime of relief may be perceived to be inequitable in so far as more generous reliefs are available to those in occupational pension schemes (having regard to the absence of age-related % limits and an earnings cap on employer contributions) as compared with the self-employed using RACs or those relying on PRSAs.

The "maximum benefits" rule of a pension of two thirds final remuneration appears to be ineffective in the absence of an absolute cap on the "salary" to which the 2/3rds rule is applied.

The 3 year average rule for determining final remuneration may allow an increase in earnings in the run up to retirement to maximise the final remuneration figure on which maximum benefits are calculated.

The ability to take a tax free lump sum of 25% of the value of the accumulated pension fund may be too generous when the value of the funds is substantial.

The introduction of the ARF option in 1999, while meeting the goals of choice, control and flexibility, has (based on the available evidence to date) largely not been used to fund an income stream in retirement.

The introduction of the ARF option would seem to be encouraging certain individuals to build up very substantial pension funds with a view to placing the funds long-term in tax-exempt environment of the ARF.

The introduction of the ARF regime may have undermined the "EET" system of pension taxation insofar as an individual with sufficient independent means can benefit from exempt contributions to a pension fund, gross roll up in respect of the income and gains of the fund, exempt transfer to and further gross roll up in an ARF and limited, if any, taxation on transfer on death.

Obesity Task Force.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

205 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children the intended time frame for implementing the recommendations of the National Task Force on Tackling Obesity. [33408/08]

Andrew Doyle

Question:

220 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive have reported to her the findings of the Health Service Executive working group to implement the recommendations of the obesity taskforce. [33407/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 205 and 220 together.

Implementation of the report of the National Taskforce on Obesity is ongoing. A range of initiatives are being taken by various Government Departments and Agencies. These include:

my Department and the Department of Education and Science are developing healthy eating guidelines for schools. Guidelines for preschools and primary schools are already developed and appropriate healthy eating training by community dieticians with preschool and primary school staff is currently under way. The guidelines for post-primary schools will be published very shortly. Guidelines on levels of physical activity are currently being devised by the Population Health Directorate of the Health Service Executive.

my Department is finalising the first National Nutrition Policy. This will fulfil a key recommendation of the Taskforce on Obesity. While addressing the nutritional needs of the whole population, it will have a particular focus on the 0 -18 year age group.

the Cardiovascular Health Policy Group, due to report this year, will be advising on measures to tackle lifestyle issues like obesity at population level as well as in the primary care setting.

the Health Service Executive has taken a number of anti-obesity initiatives, including:

the establishment of a working group to promote the implementation of the report of the National Taskforce

the recruitment of Specialist Community Dieticians

the appointment of Physical activity Co-ordinators

the development of specialist hospital services for the treatment of obesity.

the Department of Transport is developing a Sustainable Travel and Transport Action Plan. A consultative document has been published which discusses the potential of cycling and walking, and suggests ways in which these could be promoted as alternative modes of healthy travel.

the Departments of Arts, Sports and Tourism, Environment and Community Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs have developed a range of sports, recreational and playground facilities for children and young adults.

In order to give a new impetus to this issue, I am commencing a series of bilateral discussions with relevant Departments with regard to the implementation of the recommendations of the Taskforce. It is my intention to work closely with Government colleagues to ensure a coherent approach to implementing the recommendations of the Taskforce.

Pre-School Education.

John O'Mahony

Question:

206 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health and Children the percentage and number of children in the three to four year age group here who are in receipt of pre-school education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33603/08]

As the Deputy will be aware, I have responsibility for the National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP) which is the successor programme to the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme (EOCP) which concluded at the end of 2007. The NCIP has been allocated €575 million over 5 years, and is designed to deliver 50,000 additional childcare places. 10,000 of these places are designated for the 3 to 4 year old age group. Capital grants to develop childcare facilities are available to childcare providers in both the private and community sector.

Preliminary figures collated by Pobal, the agency which administers the Programme on behalf of my Department, indicate that at the end of September 2008, approximately 29,793 new pre-school places for 3 to 4 year olds will be created under the NCIP from capital funding committed to date. These places are in addition to the almost 40,000 new childcare places that were delivered under the EOCP, of which a large number would be in the pre-school age cohort. It should be noted that the places created under both the EOCP and NCIP represent the number of children availing of pre-school rather than the number of pre-school places. This is because more than one child may avail of a childcare place due to the sessional and part-time nature of some childcare services.

Based on the Central Statistics Office (CSO) 2006 census, the total number of 3 to 4 years in the country in 2008 is 121,126. My Office does not at present have detailed figures on childcare provision where funding has not been availed of under the EOCP or NCIP and I am unable therefore to advise the Deputy of the percentage and number of children aged 3 to 4 years who are in pre-school. I understand that officials in my Office are currently examining ways to collect broader data on pre-school service provision.

Children in Care.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

207 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people placed in foster care by the State who have taken legal action against the State in the previous five years, citing inadequate service provision for their needs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33751/08]

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.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

James Reilly

Question:

208 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the availability of dermatology services at Tallaght hospital for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare, who is severally mentally disabled and who has been told they can not be seen for five years even if their case was urgent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34011/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

251 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a five year waiting list for an appointment with a dermatologist at Tallaght hospital, that patients with serious conditions who cannot wait five years have no option but to attend the hospital’s accident and emergency department and that they will not be treated by a dermatologist unless they are admitted as an inpatient; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33798/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 208 and 251 together.

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive and funding for all services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular issues caused by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matters investigated and to have a replies issued directly to the Deputies involved.

Health Services.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

209 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she and the Health Service Executive have held discussions regarding the provision of a full needs assessment for carers as requested by the associations (details supplied); and if she will request to provision of the necessary funding in budget 2009. [33292/08]

My colleague, the Minister for Health and Children, met the Carers' Association on 26 September last when, among other things, they set out their view that the forthcoming Carers' Strategy should provide for a full needs assessment for carers. Such an assessment would encompass more than health matters. In so far as the health matters are concerned, she has noted the suggestion in the context of the development of the health services generally.

Medical Cards.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

210 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people in County Meath holding medical cards in 2007; and the number at present. [33302/08]

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has the operational and funding responsibility for the medical card benefit. It collates medical card data by county, age and gender. Therefore, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address this matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Medical Certificates.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

211 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether the costs associated with obtaining a medical certificate in order to obtain a driving licence for a person over 70 years of age should be covered by the medical card scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33315/08]

The contract between the Health Service Executive (HSE) and General Practitioners for the General Medical Services (GMS) Scheme stipulates that fees are not paid to GPs by the HSE in respect of certain medical certificates which may be required, for example, "under the Social Welfare Acts or for the purposes of insurance or assurance policies or for the issue of driving licences". There are no proposals to alter this provision.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

212 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Health and Children her carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in her Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33339/08]

The information requested is being compiled by my Department and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Food Labelling.

Phil Hogan

Question:

213 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Health and Children if additives are checked regularly in respect of ingredients in baby food and other consumer products; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33354/08]

The use of additives in foods for infants and young children is only permitted in very limited circumstances in the legislation which governs the use of additives in foodstuffs throughout the EU, and the small number of particular uses allowed are specifically mentioned in this legislation.

In terms of monitoring of additives in consumer foods and also baby food, the main body responsible is the Health Service Executive through the Public Analyst Laboratories in Dublin, Galway and Cork. In addition the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and the Dairy Sciences Laboratory are responsible in respect of specific controls on infant formula and follow on formulae.

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has overall responsibility for the enforcement of food legislation in Ireland. The FSAI have advised me that an annual sampling and analysis programme is developed with the laboratories and is carried out on a risk assessment based approach; however, given that only a small number of additives are permitted in foods for infants and young children, and those which are permitted are considered to be extremely safe, the FSAI considers that such uses of additives do not need to be routinely included in the annual monitoring programme.

Hospital Charges.

Denis Naughten

Question:

214 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive has completed its review of changing practices for haemochromatosis patients; the hospitals that treat patients as outpatients and those that treat patients as day cases; the funds generated in 2007 by each hospital for this practice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33372/08]

The information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Health Service Executive.

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

Health Service Staff.

Finian McGrath

Question:

215 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [33384/08]

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 the Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular issues raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have these matters investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Services.

Finian McGrath

Question:

216 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [33386/08]

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.

Medical Cards.

Finian McGrath

Question:

217 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [33387/08]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

221 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to the eligibility of persons over 70 years of age to a medical card. [33412/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 217 and 221 together.

All persons aged 70 and over have had a statutory entitlement to a medical card since July 2001. Information provided by the Health Service Executive (HSE) to my Department indicates that on 31st August 2008 there were 352,190 medical card holders aged 70 and over.

Health Services.

Finian McGrath

Question:

218 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [33388/08]

I met the specific group referred to in the Deputy's Question at the request of the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment. I imposed no pre-conditions.

Hospital Facilities.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

219 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive has forwarded a reply to her question as referred to in Parliamentary Question No. 228 of 4 March 2008 regarding vending machines in hospitals and other health facilities. [33396/08]

I have been informed by the Health Service Executive that a reply issued on 10th June 2008 to Deputy Enda Kenny.

Question No. 220 answered with Question No. 205.
Question No. 221 answered with Question No. 217.

Health Services.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

222 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a two year wait for speech therapy assessment at a health centre (details supplied) in Dublin 24; the steps being taken to address these problems; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33416/08]

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

223 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the stoppage of catering services in the Lá Nua Day Hospital in Galway City, a service which provides badly needed nutrition to some of the most vulnerable members in society; the reasons for this decision to further inflict cuts on under-funded health services in Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33443/08]

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.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

224 Deputy Edward O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will approve a concession for persons (details supplied) in County Waterford. [33456/08]

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 theDeputy.

Nursing Home Subventions.

Richard Bruton

Question:

225 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of new beds for step-down or long-term care which have been made available as a result of diverting some of the money allocated from the fair deal scheme in 2008 to this purpose. [33458/08]

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 publish the Bill very shortly and to bring it before the Houses of the Oireachtas for debate in this Dáil session.

Health Services.

Michael McGrath

Question:

226 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children when a long-stay bed is expected to be provided for a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [33482/08]

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.

Legal Costs.

Simon Coveney

Question:

227 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of money the Health Service Executive has spent on legal costs in dealing with the dispute in relation to the new contract between the HSE and the pharmacy sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33488/08]

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

Hospital Services.

Michael McGrath

Question:

228 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will receive an out-patient appointment at Cork University Hospital. [33495/08]

The management of out-patient waiting lists is a matter for the Health Service Executive and the individual hospitals concerned. 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.

Food Traceability.

Denis Naughten

Question:

229 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children when the Food Safety Authority of Ireland last completed a review of traceability within the food industry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33528/08]

Responsibility for the enforcement of labelling and traceability legislation rests with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) and its official agents, which include the Health Service Executive, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, the Local Authorities and the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority.

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland conducted a survey of traceability in a number of food businesses in 2006. Arising from this a number of legal actions were taken against non-compliant food business operators. From these, two convictions were secured in the District Court. A number of further legal actions are currently before the Courts. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland has also confirmed that checks on traceability take place regularly as part of the routine inspection of food businesses carried out by these agencies.

Health Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

230 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if physiotherapy hours will be reinstated in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33584/08]

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.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

231 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if an assessment appointment will be arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33586/08]

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.

Hospital Staff.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

232 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in the case of married female nurses who left the service on disability grounds before the widows and orphans scheme was introduced on the 1 September 1984, they were given the option at any stage of buying back into the scheme; her proposals in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33589/08]

Under Circular Letter S. 12/85, an option was given by the former health boards to retired employees to join the Local Government Employees (Spouses' and Children's Contributory Pension) Scheme. To be eligible to join the revised scheme, the retired employee had to be married or widowed and the option form had to returned no later than 31 December, 1985.

Article 204 of the Local Government (Superannuation) (Consolidation) Scheme, 1998, provided a further option for female officers who ceased to hold office before 10 January, 1984, to join the Spouses and Children's Scheme. Eligible female officers had to take up the offer on or before the 30th day of June 1990.

There are no proposals to provide a further option to join the scheme retrospectively.

Nursing Home Subventions.

John O'Mahony

Question:

233 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health and Children the enhanced levels of nursing home subvention in each county; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33604/08]

The existing subvention scheme is governed by the Health (Nursing Homes) (Amendment) Act 2007. In order to qualify for a subvention, an individual must be:

(a) sufficiently dependent to require maintenance in a nursing home, and

(b) unable to pay any or part of the cost of maintenance in the home. In order to determine this, they must undergo a means assessment which takes account of their income and assets.

Under the Act, the maximum amount for basic subvention is €300 per week. The Act also provides for enhanced subvention to be paid. However, there is no maximum amount set for enhanced subvention. The amount paid is at the discretion of the HSE and will vary depending on the following criteria:

the assessed means of the applicant,

the cost of care in the individual case compared to the level of fees in the locality,

the amount of basic subvention payable,

the amount of resources available for the scheme,

the need for the HSE to ensure that the available resources are distributed in a way that supports applicants as evenly as possible across the country.

In 2007, expenditure by the HSE on nursing home subventions was almost €205 million. This year the Government has redirected an additional €25 million from the overall allocation in respect of the Nursing Home Support Scheme — A Fair Deal — for the purpose of nursing home supports, including subvention.

Finally the deputy has asked about the levels of enhanced subvention in each county. Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised. I am referring the Deputy's query to the HSE for direct reply.

Departmental Staff.

Joan Burton

Question:

234 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number and proportion of the increase in the number of public servants in or under the aegis of her Department from 81,513 in 2000 to 113,140 in 2008, accounted for by nurses, doctors, other medical staff and other non-medical staff respectively; the number and proportion of the staff as at both end 2000 and at end 2008 accounted for by nurses, doctors, other medical staff and other non-medical staff respectively; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33620/08]

The figures in relation to the public health service are presented below. Since end 2008 figures are not yet available, data are presented below for end 2007.

Grade Category

End 2000

% of Total

End 2007

% of total

Increase 2000-2007

% of increase

%

%

%

Medical/Dental

5,698

7.12

8,005

7.18

2,307

7.34

Nursing

29,177

36.44

39,006

34.98

9,829

31.27

Health and Social Care Professionals

7,613

9.51

15,705

14.08

8,092

25.74

Management/Administration

12,366

15.44

18,043

16.18

5,677

18.06

General Support Staff/Other Patient and Client Care

25,216

31.49

30,746

27.57

5,530

17.59

Total

80,070

111,505

31,435

Source: Health Service Personnel Census.

Note 1: All figures in wholetime equivalents (WTEs).

Note 2: excludes Home Helps.

Note 3: Caution should be exercised in making grade category comparisons due to changes in category composition over time. For the purposes of comparison with the year 2000, the categories of General Support Staff & Other Patient and Client Care have been amalgamated for the 2007 figures.

Note 4: Management/Admin. includes staff who are of direct service to the public and include Consultants' Secretaries, Out-Patient Departmental Personnel, Medical Records Personnel, Telephonists and other staff who are engaged in front-line duties together with staff in the following categories Payroll, Human Resource Management (including training), Service Managers, IT Staff, General Management Support and Legislative and Information requirements.

Note 5: The methodology under which employment figures are compiled changed during the course of 2007 with the addition of personnel not previously included in subsumed agencies such as the Health Service Executive-EA (HSEA), the Primary Care Reimbursement Service (GMSPB), Health Boards Executive (HeBe) and the Office for Health Management (now part of the HR function) together with many other posts in projects or post previously excluded such as HRBS/PPARS and Value-for-Money posts (all of which are largely in the Management/Administrative stream) together with the inclusion of student nurses and chaplains. This change was undertaken to represent health service employment on a like-for-like basis with employment ceilings and to more accurately represent a reconfigured health service's employment information. As a result of this change year-on-year figures are not comparable.

Note 6: Student nurses are included in the 2007 and 2008 employment ceilings on the basis of 3.5 students equating to 1 wholetime equivalent (WTE). The employment levels adjusted for student nurses on the above basis are 110,664 WTE (Dec 07).

The figures in relation to the number of public servants in or under the aegis of my Department, at both end 2000 and currently, are being collected at present and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as they are available.

Adoption Services.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

235 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in recognising the purpose of the Hague Convention in protecting children in the process of adoption through the use of a regulatory framework to set adoption standards and the efforts that will be made to establish bilateral agreements with countries who will not ratify the Convention, those persons who are already in receipt of a valid declaration from the Irish Adoption Board will be able to complete their adoption with countries who have not ratified the Convention or with whom there may be no bilateral agreement in place; if, in particular adoption proceedings will be completed with Russia; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33622/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

247 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children if, when Ireland ratifies The Hague Convention on Inter-country Adoption those Irish citizens who are in possession of a valid declaration from the Irish Adoption Board will not be prevented from completing their adoption from Russia, in view of the fact that Russia has not ratified The Hague Convention and that there may be no bilateral agreement in place. [33790/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

248 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children if citizens who are in receipt of a declaration from the Irish Adoption Board which expires after one year and is then renewed, will not be prevented from completing their adoption from Russia, in view of the fact that Russia has not ratified The Hague Convention and that there may be no bilateral agreement in place. [33791/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

249 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on delaying the ratification of The Hague Convention on Inter-country Adoption until such time as a bilateral agreement is in place between Ireland and Russia, in view of the fact that Russia is a primary country that Irish citizens adopt from and that not to delay the ratification of The Hague Convention would be to deny children in Russian orphanages an opportunity to be adopted by Irish citizens. [33792/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

250 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether the effect of the ratification of The Hague Convention on inter-country Adoption, without a bilateral agreement being first put in place between Ireland and Russia, will be to deny Irish citizens the opportunity to adopt children from Russian orphanages and effectively condemn those children to a longer stay in a Russian orphanage than would otherwise be necessary. [33793/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 235 and 247 to 250, inclusive, together.

As the Deputies 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.

The purpose of ratifying the Hague Convention is to protect children in the process of adoption. The Hague Convention emphasises the importance of regulatory systems in protecting the fundamental rights of children, and in preventing the abduction, the sale of, or traffic in children. Ratification of the Hague Convention puts in place the equivalent of a contract between states to regulate the standards that will apply in each jurisdiction. It is the intention that the proposed adoption legislation will ensure all intercountry adoptions meet standards of the Convention either through ratification of the Convention or through bilateral agreements which meet the standards of the Hague Convention.

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 Russian Federation is one of these countries. We are working actively to assess the possibilities of entering into bilateral agreements with a small number of countries. Priority is being given to those countries which Irish applicants have a traditionally adopted from, for the reasons outlined by the deputies. Every effort will be made to advance bilaterals where this is possible and acceptable to the countries of origin.

Nevertheless, I do not believe it would be acceptable that the Government delay ratification given that Ireland has been a signatory since 1993 and is one of the last remaining countries to ratify the Convention. The Convention is, in my view, a vital reassurance to applicants and the children they adopt about standards and protections in the intercountry adoption system. The sooner we can advance to full ratification, the better for all concerned.

Where bilateral agreements have not been completed prior to commencement every effort will be made to manage cases that may arise acting in the best interests of the children involved. Information on progress on the proposed Bill and the changes contained within it will be made available to applicants over the period prior to commencement to minimise the number of cases and to ensure the best possible management of such cases where they arise.

Health Services.

Bernard Allen

Question:

236 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason there is a waiting list of approximately six months in the southern area of the Health Service Executive for orthotics for children as set out in a letter from the administration officer of the scheme; and if she will investigate the situation. [33638/08]

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.

Hospital Services.

Bernard Allen

Question:

237 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [33672/08]

The management of out-patient waiting lists is a matter for the Health Service Executive and the individual hospitals concerned. 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.

Vaccination Programme.

James Reilly

Question:

238 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the flu vaccine programme for over 50s was abruptly cancelled; the person who made that decision; the funds spent on rolling out the extension of the scheme; the amount spent on publicity material and posters; the amount spent on purchasing extra supplies of flu vaccine; the number of flu vaccines purchased; the shelf life of that vaccine; the number of people who currently receive the flu vaccine under existing arrangements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33699/08]

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.

Health Services.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

239 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children the funding that will be provided to voluntary organisations (details supplied) to assist in the training and recruitment of volunteers to accompany victims of sexual assault to the new SATU unit to be opened in Mullingar, County Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33700/08]

Olwyn Enright

Question:

240 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children when the new SATU unit will be opened in Mullingar, County Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33701/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 239 and 240 together.

The Deputy's questions relate 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.

Dormant Accounts Fund.

Pat Breen

Question:

241 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No 136 of 1 of October 2008 to the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, if her attention has been drawn to the delay in the older measures funding to a group (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33716/08]

POBAL is the body charged with administering the Dormant Accounts funds on behalf the Department of Health and Children. POBAL pays grants to approved beneficiaries out of advance funds received from the HSE, on the approval of my Department and the Department of Finance.

I understand that the centre named is awaiting payment of €7,777 from the Dormant Accounts Fund. My Department is currently clarifying data with POBAL regarding payments made to all approved projects to date in 2008. Further funds will be transferred to POBAL when the information requested is received.

Health Services.

John O'Mahony

Question:

242 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has been refused hospital transport; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33722/08]

The specific question raised by the Deputy 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.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

243 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for Health and Children when BreastCheck will be available in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33725/08]

The Deputy's specific question in relation to the roll out of BreastCheck to County Donegal 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 matter raised.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

244 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if smear tests are being processed in laboratories here or if they are all being sent to the US; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33726/08]

On 1 September 2008 the National Cancer Screening Service (NCSS) announced the availability of CervicalCheck, the National Cervical Screening Programme. The Programme provides free smear tests through primary care settings to the 1.1 million women living in Ireland aged between 25 and 60 years. The NCSS is fully committed to providing a quality assured population based cervical screening programme which has the potential to reduce current mortality rates from cervical cancer among women in Ireland by 80%.

The NCSS undertook a transparent procurement process under EU procurement guidelines to select a suitable cytology laboratory provider. On 9 May the NCSS announced that it had selected Quest Diagnostics, a US based company, as the ‘preferred bidder' as a result of this process. Quest Diagnostics met all the criteria set out under the procurement process.

Quest Diagnostics is reporting on all CervicalCheck smear tests. The contract has been awarded for a two year term with an option to renew for a further two years. Up to 300,000 smear tests will be processed per annum. All GPs and smear takers who register with CervicalCheck are informed of the correct procedure for sending programme smears to Quest.

As CervicalCheck is rolled out nationally, the NCSS has indicated that the need for opportunistic smears outside the organised screening programme should disappear over time. Some Irish laboratories may be currently processing remaining backlogs of non-programme smears.

Hospital Services.

Michael Ring

Question:

245 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a bed in Beaumont Hospital will be provided for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [33727/08]

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.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

246 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a number of wards are closed in a hospital (details supplied) in Dublin 11; if that number is five; her views on the effect this is having on patients who are awaiting admission to the hospital; when it is expected that the hospital will re-open the wards concerned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33787/08]

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.

Questions Nos. 247 to 250, inclusive, answered with Question No. 235.
Question No. 251 answered with Question No. 208.

Health Services.

Michael McGrath

Question:

252 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children when a child (details supplied) in County Cork will receive occupational therapy. [33800/08]

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.

Health Service Staff.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

253 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if it is envisaged that new posts will be created in the Health Service Executive under the proposed appointment of area directors; if a decision has been made on the number of areas into which the country will be divided under the proposed regionalisation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33807/08]

I have had ongoing discussions with the Chairperson and CEO of the Health Service Executive (HSE) regarding its plans to introduce revised management structures at both national and regional level in order to improve the delivery of health and personal social services. The overall result of these changes will be:

better integration of primary, community and hospital care for the benefit of patients and to optimise the efficient use of resources;

more clinical involvement in the design and management of patient services;

more local responsibility and authority within defined national parameters through the establishment of service delivery areas.

The proposed new regional structures will not be autonomous entities and will operate in line with the organisation's national strategic direction, standards, operational policies, budgets and employment controls. An Implementation Team led by the HSE's National Director of Human Resources has been established to oversee the process. While the number of service delivery areas, and their boundaries, has yet to be finalised, the clear intention is that area directors will have operational responsibility and authority to deliver all hospital and community care services, and personal and social services, in their specific geographical areas within their budgets and employment allocations. It is envisaged that there will be a reduction in the number of posts at Director level when the restructuring is complete.

This approach will strengthen and simplify area governance. It will also ensure more efficient and responsive delivery of local services and facilitate more local responsibility, authority and decision making within defined national parameters.

Patient Safety.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

254 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made in implementing recommendation 11, point four of a report (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33808/08]

Last April the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) published its report of the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the provision of care to the person concerned in relation to her symptomatic breast disease, the pathology services at Cork University Hospital and symptomatic breast disease services at the Mid Western Regional Hospital, Limerick.

An implementation plan has been developed by the HSE and progress is being monitored on a quarterly basis. The first progress report, covering the period June to August 2008, has recently been published and is available on the HSE's website. In relation to the specific recommendation mentioned by the Deputy, the Consumer Affairs Department of the HSE is currently working with hospital managers on how this recommendation can be given effect to deliver the best outcomes for patients. Workshops to develop patient liaison programmes are being organised to take place before the end of this year.

In addition and as part of my commitment to prioritise the ‘patient safety and quality' agenda, I set up the Commission on Patient Safety and Quality Assurance. The Commission's Report — ‘Building a Culture of Patient Safety' was published on 7th August 2008. The report contains proposals on patient advocacy and suggests appropriate arrangements for the involvement of patients and carers in service planning and evaluation. I am currently considering these recommendations in detail. It is my intention to bring the report, together with an implementation plan, to Government as soon as possible.

Mental Health Services.

Michael Creed

Question:

255 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children the studies carried out by her Department on the level of ADHD here; the most common medicines administered for this condition; the cost involved; if her attention has been drawn to the recent research in the US (details supplied) which questions the beneficial affect of medication for treatment of ADHD; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33813/08]

The development of services for the management and treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD) was considered by the Working Group on Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Services which reported in 2001. All aspects of the presentation, diagnosis, treatment and management of children suffering from ADD/ADHD were considered by the Working Group in the course of its deliberations. In its report, the Group recommended the enhancement and expansion of the overall child and adolescent psychiatric services as the most effective means of providing the required service for children with ADD/ADHD.

The future direction and delivery of all aspects of our mental health services, including services for children and adults with ADD/ADHD, was considered in the context of the work of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy. The report of that group "A Vision for Change" was published in January 2006 and contains wide-ranging recommendations for the further development of mental health services for both children and adults. The Government has accepted the Report as the basis for the future development of mental health services.

I am not aware of the particular research referred to by the Deputy. However I am satisfied that the evidence base is extremely robust for the use of medication in the management of ADD/ADHD. Many studies have demonstrated significant improvements arising from the use of medication in this disorder and, while the Department keeps under review any new research, single studies would be considered in the context of the overall evidence base for this or any other treatment.

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 question raised by the Deputy in relation to the most common medicines administered for ADHD and the costs involved. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Services.

Pat Breen

Question:

256 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children when an appeal for domiciliary allowance back payment will be finalised for persons (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33814/08]

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.

Vaccination Programme.

Denis Naughten

Question:

257 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has received the final report of the vaccine damage compensation group; the recommendations of the group; the action that will be taken to implement its recommendations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33818/08]

I understand that the Vaccine Damage Steering Group is at an advanced stage of finalising its consideration of this matter and I expect to receive its report and recommendations very shortly.

National Lottery Funding.

Michael Creed

Question:

258 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on providing funding from the national lottery for an organisation (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33828/08]

An application for funding from the 2008 National Lottery allocation has been received from Ms. Pauline O'Callaghan towards the ongoing running costs of Charleville Community Child care Limited. This is one of a large number currently being assessed by this department. The Deputy will be informed of the outcome of the application as soon as a decision has been made.

Child Care Services.

Michael Creed

Question:

259 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of county child care committees in existence; the annual budget for these committees; the number of staff directly employed by the committees; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33829/08]

There are 33 City/County Child care Committees which were established in 2001 under the Equal Opportunities Child care Programme (EOCP) 2000-2006 to co-ordinate the development of child care services throughout the country.

Funding is currently provided on an annual basis to the City/County Child care Committees under the National Child care Investment Programme (NCIP) 2006-2010, for which I have responsibility, to support the activities set out in their Action Plans. The total funding provided in 2008 to the committees was €13,298,840. There are approximately 183 staff presently employed directly by the committees.

Hospital Services.

Sean Sherlock

Question:

260 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will expedite an outpatient appointment for a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33858/08]

The management of out-patient waiting lists is a matter for the Health Service Executive and the individual hospitals concerned. 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.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

261 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Transport his carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in his Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33342/08]

The website of the Government's climate change awareness campaign, www.change.ie, provides a carbon calculator which enables everyone to work out their own carbon footprint. Using this tool, my Department has estimated that the carbon emissions arising in the course of my ministerial functions and Minister of State, Noel Ahern's ministerial functions amounted to 4.37 tonnes in the year to 30 September 2008. Of this, 4.03 tonnes related to air travel, which will be fully offset under the Government's carbon offsetting scheme for official travel. Figures in respect of official travel by car are not readily available.

There is no equivalent figure for the previous year, as I did not take up the post until 14 June 2007.

Rail Services.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

262 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Transport the volume of freight carried by rail; if this has shown an increase or decrease in recent years; if he will put measures in place to stimulate the use of rail for freight transportation in view of its potential to reduce congestion on the roads and to reduce carbon emissions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33362/08]

Jackie Healy-Rae

Question:

265 Deputy Jackie Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport his plans to introduce legislation to encourage freight to use the rail service rather than the road network as it would free up the roads, be more environmentally friendly and help to reduce Ireland’s carbon footprint; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33438/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 262 and 265 together.

Around 130 m tonne kilometres were carried by rail in 2007. While the overall volume of freight carried has been declining Iarnród Éireann has made some progress in recent years in maintaining the rail freight business in areas where it holds a competitive advantage over road haulage, e.g. large volumes or trainloads over long distances.

I understand Iarnród Éireann has undertaken extensive engagement with industry, transporters and port authorities but has had genuine difficulty in identifying business opportunities that offer reasonable volumes of business on a regular basis. Rail freight generally involves road movements at each end of the logistics chain and given the often short distances in Ireland, it is difficult to develop a business case. Only around 10% of freight movements in Ireland are in excess of 150 km. The experience across Europe is no different. Rail freight activities are most economic over long distances with large volumes and where the freight to be carried is not time sensitive.

In relation to measures to encourage rail freight there is substantial ongoing current and capital Exchequer investment being made in the development and operation of the railway network. Total Exchequer funding allocated to Iarnród Éireann for 2008 amounts to more than €720 million. In addition, rail freight has been fully liberalised since 1st January, 2007, and while no serious representations have been made to date to my Department by private rail operators for entry to the market, I would welcome any expressions of interest.

My Department is currently preparing a Sustainable Travel and Transport Action Plan and freight issues, including rail freight, will feature in that plan.

Ministerial Appointments.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

263 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide a full report on the recent appointments to the board of Shannon Foynes Port company and the relevant qualifications of all appointed board members; if he is satisfied that all outstanding issues at Shannon Foynes Port company have been fully resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33402/08]

Port company board appointments are made in accordance with Section 30 of the Harbours Act 1996. In advance of such appointments Section 30(7) of the Harbours Act 1996 provides that nominations are sought from relevant organisations. Such recommendations are considered when making appointments. However, appointments remain at the discretion of the Minister.

In the case of the six vacancies on the board of Shannon Foynes Port Company eight nominations were received as part of the statutory consultation. On 25 September 2008, six directors were appointed to the board of Shannon Foynes Port Company, including a new chairperson.

I believe these appointments provide the board with an appropriate balance of skills, competencies and experience to enable the board to provide renewed leadership and strategic direction to the company.

The last few years have been difficult for the company. In 2006 and 2007, the company was party to a number of related legal disputes. In October 2007, an out of court settlement was reached between the parties.

Following the settlement, my Department considered the financial position of the company and has further reviewed the accounts for 2007 in the context of the 2008 AGM. Minister Dempsey also met with the former chairman of the company on 3 March 2008.

This has provided some reassurance that the company is addressing its financial difficulties, while continuing to operate and develop the business. My Department will continue to closely monitor the financial situation of the company in accordance with normal corporate governance practice.

Public Transport.

Michael D'Arcy

Question:

264 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Transport his plans to introduce, in budget 2009, measures to assist bus operators who face severe financial reductions when the rebate of mineral oil tax on hydrocarbon heavy oil used in the provision of certain bus services ceases on 31 October 2008 in view of the fact that some services they supply, for example school transport, have little financial benefit to them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33417/08]

I refer the Deputy to my answer to question numbers 28 and 33 on 1st October last.

Question No. 265 answered with Question No. 262.

State Airports.

Pat Breen

Question:

266 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 215 of 20 February 2008, the position regarding the business plan for Shannon Airport; if he has concluded his analysis of this report; his plans to have this report independently assessed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33613/08]

The State Airports Act, 2004 provides the framework for the establishment of Shannon and Cork as independent airports. As part of the airport restructuring process the boards of Cork and Shannon airport are required to prepare business plans for eventual separation.

All three airport business plans have to be co-ordinated by the Dublin Airport Authority for eventual approval by the Minister for Finance and myself. Among the requirements to be satisfied in advance of separation is the need to ensure the financial sustainability of all three state airports. I have already received the Cork and Shannon business plans but I expect shortly to receive a finalised commentary on those plans by the DAA when they submit their own plan under the Act. I would expect DAA's commentary to address recent trends in the aviation market, the challenges facing the State airports and the financial and operational aspects of restructuring.

Public Transport.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

267 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the subsidy per passenger trip to Irish Rail for each of the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33690/08]

I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 353, 354 and 355 which I answered on the 30th September, 2008.

Port Development.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

268 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport if, in view of the fact that member states of the European Union may provide national support to short sea shipping routes in accordance with EU guidelines on state aid to maritime transport involving funding of up to 30% for three years, he will arrange to seek clarification from the European Commission with regard to providing financial support for a shipping line between Cork and Swansea; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33742/08]

The Port of Cork Company is continuing to engage in discussions with a number of interested parties and stakeholders with a view to the latter commencing a new passenger and freight service on the Cork-Swansea route. The Port of Cork Company also completed a feasibility study on the route and this indicated that a service, subject to procuring a suitable vessel, could be feasible for year round passenger and freight operations. The Port of Cork Company will continue to do what it can to facilitate the resumption of the service.

It is not the practice to subsidise international shipping routes, nor are there any funds available to my Department for this purpose.

However, there are two European Commission programmes that encourage development of transnational shipping routes with the objective of shifting freight from the roads network; they are the Motorways of the Sea and Marco Polo programmes. These programmes are run by the European Commission and are guided by a specific set of rules and framework.

The Irish Maritime Development Office regularly publishes full details of these programmes on its website (www.imdo.ie).

Emergency Service Vehicles.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

269 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport his views on extending the law relating to blue flashing lights to include cars driven by firefighters when responding to incident call-outs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33817/08]

Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No 477 of 2006) this is a matter for the Road Safety Authority, in relation to regulations on vehicle equipment and use.

Port Development.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

270 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport if he has received a copy of the Irish Maritime Development Office’s new analysis of traffic volume through ports here; his views on the first decline in shipping volumes for a decade; if he will introduce measures to address declining shipping volumes and to enhance the national ports here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33949/08]

The Irish Maritime Development Office published mid-year analysis of traffic through ports in the State that showed a reduction in the volume of cargo during the first half of 2008. The data indicated a fall in container traffic volume compared to the same six months of 2007, with lift on/lift off traffic declining by 4% and roll on/roll off traffic declining by 3%.

The changed economic climate has impacted on traffic volumes. In 2007, throughput continued to grow but at a lower rate than previous years, with overall tonnage up 1.5%. There was a marked slowdown in the latter part of 2007 and this has continued into the first half of 2008.

Notwithstanding the changed economic circumstances, the provision of additional modern port capacity is still required in the medium term. I believe that the historic trend toward increased international trade will continue, once the economy returns to growth. It will be important that the transport infrastructure is in place to facilitate this trade.

Since the Fisher Seaport Capacity study was completed in 2006, a number of ports have made significant progress in advancing their development proposals.

My Department continues to monitor the capacity situation closely.

Garda Reserve.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

271 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of hours duty that have been logged by members of the Garda reserve since the inception of the reserve; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33277/08]

The information requested in relation to the number of hours duty that have been logged by members of the Garda Reserve since the inception of the Reserve is not readily available and can only be obtained by the disproportionate expenditure of Garda time and resources relative to the information sought.

However, Section 11(4) of the Garda Síochána (Reserve Members) Regulations 2006 states that ‘A Reserve member may not be required to serve more than 208 hours of duty in any 12 month period'

The personnel strength of the Garda Reserve as at the 30 September 2008 was 254. The personnel strength of the Garda Reserves in training as at the 30th September 2008 was 157.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

272 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost to date of training members of the Garda Reserve; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33278/08]

Charles Flanagan

Question:

273 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost to date of promotion of the Garda Reserve on advertising it to potential members; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33279/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 272 and 273 together.

A total of €0.82 million has been directly incurred on the recruitment and training of the Garda Reserve. This figure also includes expenditure in respect of necessary upgrade works carried out on the Garda Information System. The salary costs associated with the Garda trainers involved in training the Reserve members is not included as it is considered part of the trainers' normal duty.

A total of €0.48m was incurred by An Garda Síochána during the past 12 months (01/9/07 to 31/08/08) on advertising. This figure covers all advertising costs incurred, including promoting the Garda Reserve.

Residency Permits.

Phil Hogan

Question:

274 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when an application will be processed for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny for long term residency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33296/08]

I am advised by the officials in the Long Term Residency Section of my Department that no application for long term residency has been received from the person referred to by the Deputy.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

275 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in his Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33340/08]

Using the carbon calculator provided as part of the Government's climate change awareness campaign (www.change.ie), my Department has calculated that the carbon emissions arising from air travel related to my official Ministerial functions since taking up office as Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform in May of this year to be 0.49 tonnes. Figures in respect of my official travel by car are not readily available and other emissions cannot easily be distinguished from that relating to general Departmental activity. Using the same calculator, the figure in respect of Minister of State Lenihan's air travel from January 2008 to date is 7.82 tonnes. These figures are not calculated in such a fashion as to permit easy comparison over time, or with each other, and reflect of course the extent to which air travel is necessitated in performing official duties over any given period.

Immigration Policy.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

276 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the service provided by volunteers from abroad to organisations (details supplied) whose work assists people with intellectual difficulties; if he will ensure that the Immigration and Residency Bill as currently drafted will not adversely affect those who volunteer with such organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33344/08]

The Irish immigration system facilitates migration to the State having regard to a number of factors including the economic and social needs of the State and its residents. Where a need is identified the immigration authorities can, and do, respond to facilitate such migration in an orderly and proper manner and in conformity with normal immigration controls.

I am aware that volunteers with the organisation to which the Deputy refers have traditionally been facilitated within this framework. Where a permission is granted to persons who are undertaking voluntary work it is done so on the basis that they or the organisation concerned have sufficient funds to maintain the volunteer while in the State without recourse to State funds. I understand that volunteers with the organisation referred to have been given permission to come to Ireland to work under those conditions.

With regard to the Immigration, Residence and Protection Bill 2008, I should point out that the Bill provides a statutory framework which will support the immigration policies of the State as may be settled from time to time. Immigration policy is kept under constant review and, where a need is identified, amended and updated accordingly. In this regard, I can inform the Deputy that while immigration policy in relation to volunteer work remains under review, I have no proposals at this time to amend policy in this area.

Visa Applications.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

277 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if visa applications for persons (details supplied) will be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33365/08]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the visa applications referred to were approved on 2 October 2008.

Closed Circuit Television Systems.

Denis Naughten

Question:

278 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to Parliamentary Question No. 327 of 28 May, 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33378/08]

The installation of the Garda town centre CCTV system for Athlone is well advanced. I am advised by the Garda authorities that certain civil works at the station are required before the system becomes operational. It is planned that the system will be commissioned in late 2008/early 2009.

Citizenship Applications.

Finian McGrath

Question:

279 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support persons (details supplied). [33382/08]

Applications for certificates of naturalisation from the persons referred to in the Deputy's Question were received in the Citizenship Section of my Department in May 2008.

Officials in that section are currently processing applications received in May 2006. Applications are dealt with in chronological order as this is deemed to be the fairest to all applicants. The current processing time for applications for certificates of naturalisation is approximately 29 months.

Garda Deployment.

Finian McGrath

Question:

280 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support a matter (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [33383/08]

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that the area referred to by the Deputy is covered by Coolock Garda District. The personnel strength of that District on 31 August 2008, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 238.

Local Garda Management is aware of anti-social behaviour being experienced by local residents, primarily in the vicinity of a local shopping centre, which has been identified as a public disorder "hot-spot" and is targeted, as such, by uniform and plain-clothes patrols, supported by Community Policing and Garda Mountain Bike Units, the District Detective Units, the Divisional Drug Unit, Crime Task Force and Traffic Corps personnel.

It is the responsibility of the Garda Commissioner to allocate personnel throughout the Force taking everything into account. In that regard, the needs of the Garda District referred to by the Deputy will be fully considered by the Commissioner within the overall context of the needs of Garda Districts throughout the country.

Closed Circuit Television Systems.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

281 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to the electronic recording of interviews, the installation of closed circuit television in the public areas of Garda stations and the review of the electronic recording of interview regulations. [33389/08]

The Garda authorities have been examining the introduction of CCTV in public areas of Garda stations and have implemented a pilot project in Pearse Street and Store Street Stations. This system has now been extended to the Bridewell station in Dublin and is currently being installed in Letterkenny station. Plans are also well advanced for implementation in Monaghan station and, subject to the availability of resources, the Garda authorities intend to extend the system to include all custody holding facilities.

The provisions of the electronic recording of suspect interviews have proven to be a very important safeguard for both detained persons and Gardaí alike. The latest figures available from the Garda authorities indicate that over 99% of all interviews as specified in the Regulations are being electronically recorded. My Department is currently looking at possible changes to the Regulations in the light of recent legislative changes and in the context of the Morris Tribunal recommendations.

Citizenship Applications.

Joan Burton

Question:

282 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for citizenship by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33398/08]

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 on 18 February 2005. On examination of that application it was determined that the person concerned did not satisfy the statutory 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 10 January 2006 and the applicant was also invited to lodge a new application.

A new application was lodged by the person in question under his existing reference number on 21 January 2006 and on examination of this application it was determined that the person concerned still did not satisfy the statutory 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 23 April 2008 and the applicant was once again invited to make a new application under his existing reference number. The purpose of this letter was to ensure that the person concerned would not lose his place in the processing queue. This application was lodged on 10 July 2008.

Officials in the Citizenship Section of my Department inform me that processing of this application has commenced and the file will be forwarded to me for a decision in the coming months.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

283 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a person (details supplied) in County Dublin will receive a decision on their application for citizenship; the reason it has taken five years since the application was made in view of the fact that they have resided in here for more than ten years, and their spouse and children are Irish citizens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33410/08]

An application for a certificate of naturalisation for the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Section of my Department on 12 August 2003.

Officials in that Section inform me that processing of the application was delayed because relevant information was not immediately available.

I can inform the Deputy that processing of this application has commenced and the file will be forwarded to me for a decision in the next two weeks.

Residency Permits.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

284 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the application of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8 for a stamp four residency permit; the reason for a delay in this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33423/08]

I am advised by the officials in the Long Term Residency Section of my Department that an application for long term residency from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in August 2007.

I understand that applications received in January 2007 are currently being dealt with. As soon as a decision is made on the case, the person concerned will be notified.

Deportation Orders.

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

285 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will review the case of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and the status of this person. [33424/08]

The person concerned applied for asylum on 6 April 2004 on her own behalf and on behalf of her infant child. 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 have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned and will be fully considered before the file is passed to me for decision.

Citizenship Applications.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

286 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a person (details supplied) in County Donegal was refused citizenship; and if he will re-examine the file and take into account the new information furnished to him recently. [33435/08]

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 on 11 May 2005.

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. Letters informing the applicant of this were issued on 20 May 2005, 12 August 2008, 17 September 2008, 1 October 2008 to the address supplied by the person concerned and on 2 October 2008 to the address supplied by the Deputy.

I should point out that if the person in question has changed address since lodging his application, the onus is on him to keep the Department informed of any such change of address.

It is open to the person in question to lodge a new application if and when he is in a position to meet the statutory requirements at that time.

Residency Permits.

Tom Sheahan

Question:

287 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a person (details supplied) will receive stamp four. [33439/08]

Officials in that section inform me that there is no application on file from the person concerned for a Stamp 4. However, 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 December 2007.

On examination of the application it was determined that the person in question did not meet the residency requirements as set out in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. A letter informing her of this was issued on 16 April 2008.

It is open to the person concerned to lodge a new application if and when she is in a position to meet the statutory requirements applicable at that time.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

288 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a person (details supplied) in County Louth had their residency revoked in 2005; the present status of the person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33466/08]

The person concerned applied for asylum on 7 January 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 19 November 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 making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations were submitted on behalf of the person concerned.

The person concerned also submitted an application for permission to remain in the State on the basis of his marriage to an Irish National. Following consideration of this application, the person concerned was granted permission to remain in the State for an initial period of 12 months. This decision was conveyed in writing to the person concerned by letter dated 14 June 2005.

Subsequently the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 2 March 2007, that as he no longer satisfied the criteria under which his permission to remain in the State had been granted, the Minister had decided to refuse the renewal of that permission. Arising from this decision, the person concerned was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned and will be fully considered, under Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, before the file is passed to me for decision.

Citizenship Applications.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

289 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made by him on the application by persons (details supplied) in County Louth for certificates of naturalisation; the stage the applications are at within his Department; if his attention has been drawn to the exceptional circumstances in this case and the need for a decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33467/08]

An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the first person mentioned in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Section of my Department on 13 September 2006 and an application from the second person mentioned was received on 7 September 2006.

Officials in that Section are currently processing applications received in May 2006. All applications are dealt with in chronological order as this is deemed to be the fairest to all applicants. The current processing time for applications is approximately 29 months.

Private Security Authority.

Willie Penrose

Question:

290 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the degree, nature and level of communication that the Private Security Authority engages in with licence holders; if communication only arises when renewal of a licence is being sought and where personnel involved in the installation of alarms are operating to an approved European standard; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the renewal system currently in place, just represents a further additional charge on these licensed operators, who have to comply with the appropriate Garda vetting form procedure; and if he will take steps to reduce the costs of compliance or in the alternative put in place a procedure that reflects in a tiered way the charge applied to the turnover of the individuals or companies involved in the installation sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33471/08]

Willie Penrose

Question:

291 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason, in the context of the application of a licence from the Private Security Authority pursuant to the Private Security Services Act 2004, whereby the administration fee for the licence is in the order of €1,000 and is renewable every two years, and which consists of a turnover of a fee of €1,250 where turnover is less than €625,000; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that most of the licence holders are small business operators with a significantly lower turnover; his views in this context on tiering the turnover levels, and thereby reducing the sectoral fee charged; his further views on introducing a five year licence rather than a two year licence which currently is the position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33472/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 290 and 291 together.

The Deputy will be aware that the Private Security Authority was established as an independent statutory authority under the Private Security Services Act 2004.

The matters referred to in the Deputy's questions address operational issues, which are a matter solely for the Private Security Authority. My Office has been in contact with the Authority, which has advised me that it will reply directly to the Deputy on the issues raised by him.

Crime Levels.

Simon Coveney

Question:

292 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime figures for the town of Carrigaline, County Cork for the past five years itemising where possible the different types and levels of crime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33489/08]

Simon Coveney

Question:

293 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime figures for the town of Douglas, County Cork for the past five years itemising where possible the different types and levels of crime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33490/08]

Simon Coveney

Question:

294 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime figures for Cork city for the past five years itemising where possible the different types and levels of crime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33491/08]

Simon Coveney

Question:

295 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime figures for Tougher, Cork city for the past five years itemising where possible the different types and levels of crime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33492/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 292 to 295, inclusive, together.

The Garda Síochána Act 2005 makes provision for the compilation and publication of crime statistics by the Central Statistics Office, as the national statistical agency, and the CSO has established a dedicated unit for this purpose.

I have requested the CSO to provide the statistics sought by the Deputy directly to him.

Garda Deployment.

John O'Mahony

Question:

296 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda Reserve assigned to County Mayo Garda stations; his plans to increase this number; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33602/08]

At 30 September 2008, there were 254 attested Reserve Gardaí and 157 Reserve trainees nationally.

The number of attested Garda Reserve members currently assigned to the Mayo Garda Division as at 30 September 2008 was eight. The members concerned are attached to the following Garda Stations:

Station

Number

Castlebar

3

Ballina

3

Westport

2

The number of Garda Reserve trainees in the Mayo Garda Division as at 30 September 2008 was nine. They are attached to the following stations:

Station

Number

Castlebar

8

Ballina

1

The recruitment of members to the Garda Reserve is ongoing with regular intakes into the Garda College. The next intake will be in late November. I welcome the prospect of further assignments of Garda Reserve members to Mayo as additional members from Mayo become available.

Residency Permits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

297 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33623/08]

The person concerned applied for asylum on 25 January 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 12 February 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.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

298 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected status in the case of an application for residency in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Offaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33624/08]

I refer the Deputy to my reply to his Parliamentary Question, No. 382 of Tuesday 30 September 2008. The position in the State of the person concerned is as set out in that reply.

Deportation Orders.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

299 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 811 of 24 September 2008, the position regarding a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; if his attention has been drawn to the seriousness of their situation after they were deported and that their mother legally works here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33625/08]

The person concerned arrived in the State on 5 September 2002 and subsequently claimed asylum. Her application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.

The person concerned was informed by letter dated 19 November 2004 that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of her and afforded her three options in accordance with Section 3(3)(b)(ii) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended), namely to leave the State voluntarily, to consent to the making of a Deportation Order or to submit, within 15 working days, written representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State i.e why she should not be deported.

Her case was examined 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. Consideration was given to all representations submitted on her behalf for permission to remain in the State. On 4 May 2005 the then Minister refused permission to remain temporarily in the State and instead signed a Deportation Order in respect of her. Notice of this order was served by registered post requiring the person concerned to present herself at the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB),13-14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2 on Tuesday 7 June 2005 in order to make travel arrangements for her removal from the State. She presented as required and was given further presentation dates which she kept. On 6 July 2005, she was removed from the State and returned to Nigeria.

The Deputy might wish to note that, in addition to the 11 factors contained in Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended), I must, as stated earlier, also have regard for Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the Prohibition of Refoulement before making a deportation order. This essentially means that the safety of returning a person, or refoulement as it is commonly referred to, is fully considered in every case when deciding whether or not to make a deportation order i.e. that a person shall not be expelled from the State or returned in any manner whatsoever to a State where the life or freedom of that person would be threatened on account of his or her race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion. My Department uses extensive country of origin information drawn from different independent sources, including the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), in evaluating the safety of making returns to Nigeria and other third countries. In this case, I am entirely satisfied that there were no refoulement related reasons to prevent the deportation of the person concerned.

Further, I am satisfied that the applications made by the person concerned for asylum and subsequently for temporary leave to remain in the State were fairly and comprehensively examined and, as such, the decision to deport her was justified.

The effect of the Deportation Order is that the person concerned, having been removed by the State, must remain out of the State.

Firearms Licences.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

300 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 787 of 17 June 2008, when the information requested will be furnished; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33642/08]

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that the information sought is still not readily available. However, I am assured that it is being compiled and I will issue a response to the Deputy as soon as it comes to hand.

Registration of Title.

Sean Fleming

Question:

301 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in relation to Parliamentary Question No. 1272 of 30 January 2008, the Registry of Deeds has been able to locate the instrument (details supplied) following the recent search for same; if they will process the relevant application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33673/08]

I understand that the application concerned was completed earlier this year and that the related details were recently provided directly to the Deputy by the Property Registration Authority.

Bernard Allen

Question:

302 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a land registration application by a club (details supplied) will be finalised. [33682/08]

As the Deputy will be aware, under the provisions of the Registration of Deeds and Title Act 2006, the Property Registration Authority was established as and from 4 November, 2006. The Property Registration Authority replaces the Registrar of Deeds and Titles as the registering authority in relation to property registration in Ireland and, subject to the above Act, is independent in the performance of its functions.

I would also like to refer the Deputy to a service for TDs and Senators concerning the current status of applications, such as the subject of this question, which was introduced in May 2006. The service was introduced, inter alia, to provide a speedier and more cost effective alternative to submitting Parliamentary Questions. This service, which is operated by the Property Registration Authority, is available all year round.

I can further inform the Deputy that his query has been forwarded to the Property Registration Authority for attention and direct reply via the above mentioned service.

Digital Mapping Project.

Michael Ring

Question:

303 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the digitisation of the County Mayo maps in the Property Registry Authority will be completed; if this matter will be expedited in view of the impact it is having on many dealing applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33692/08]

Michael Ring

Question:

304 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of dealing applications for Mayo that are held up due to the digitisation of the County Mayo maps within the Property Registry Authority. [33693/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 303 and 304 together.

In order to provide some background information I can inform the Deputy that the Digital Mapping Project in the Property Registration Authority (PRA) commenced in July 2005 and is due for completion in 2010. The system has been delivering considerable benefits to the entire country since the completion of Phase 1 in April 2006. On that date Phase 2 of the project (the digitisation of some 15 million individual registered boundaries) commenced on a county by county basis. Thirteen counties are now fully live on the system, with County Cavan due to be completed before the end of this month. A progress map and regular progress reports are published on the PRA website which was last updated on the 9 September, 2008. I understand that the project is on schedule and is being progressed in accordance with the timescales agreed with the contracting parties.

I am informed that digitisation of boundaries is currently underway in three additional counties — Limerick, Cork and Mayo and that the scheduling of counties is influenced by a range of factors the most significant of which is the date at which Ordnance Survey Ireland are in a position to deliver the latest version of their digitised base maps. The registered boundaries are then plotted and quality assured before being loaded on to the PRA's computerised system and declared live. The digitisation of boundaries in respect of County Mayo has just started (on 15 September, 2008) and is due for completion in May 2009. When the process is about to commence for each county a briefing session is organised for solicitors and other users in the area and this was done in respect of County Mayo some months ago. At that meeting the time schedules were outlined, demonstrations were given and practical information on how to best use the new system was provided.

The Deputy should note that approximately 65% of dealings lodged in respect of County Mayo with the PRA do not require to be mapped and are not affected by the Digital Mapping Project at all. I can also advise that at the end of September 2008, there were in the region of 9,000 applications for County Mayo awaiting mapping. Virtually all of these cases had been lodged before the commencement of the project for the county.

In addition to the improvements in customer service for map related applications and the new additional services that have been provided, the productivity gains from the project are very positive to date. The business case for the introduction of digital mapping projected a 40% increase in productivity. I understand that the project is still developing and, even though the staff of the PRA and its customers are at this point still becoming familiar with the new environment, this increase has already been achieved.

Proposed Legislation.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

305 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will confirm plans to introduce legislation to deal with concerns relating to multi-unit developments and the operation and governance of property management companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33809/08]

Work on the preparation of legislative proposals to respond to the Law Reform Commission's recommendations concerning multi-unit developments and the regulation and governance of property management companies is under way across a number of Departments. Options are being considered in consultation with relevant Departments and the Attorney General as to whether it would be more expeditious to introduce a single Bill or to adopt a sectoral approach to amending existing legislation. The Government's decision on the matter will be made on the basis of how quickly the required legislation can be enacted.

Citizenship Applications.

Michael Creed

Question:

306 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received all the necessary documentation in respect of an application for family reunification by a person (details supplied); when a decision can be expected on this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33812/08]

I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the person in question made a Family Reunification application in April 2008.

The application was forwarded to the Refugee Applications Commissioner for investigation as required under Section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996. The investigation has been completed and the Commissioner has forwarded a report to my Department.

The report will be considered by my Department and a decision on the application will issue in due course.

Emigrant Support Services.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

307 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the plans he has to cut funding in respect of returning émigrés; and if he will honour the pledge made in August 2002 to provide assistance to agencies working with elderly and vulnerable Irish emigrants, or if it is planned to ignore the financial contribution which the Irish immigrant community has made over the years here. [33363/08]

The Government is deeply conscious of the extraordinary contribution made by Irish immigrant communities to Ireland over many years. Our commitment to assisting agencies working with these communities is reflected in the unprecedented level of funding secured for emigrant services in recent years. This substantial increase has enabled my Department to provide greater financial support to organisations engaged in the delivery of key welfare, information and advisory services to our emigrant communities, and in particular the elderly and vulnerable.

In this context, my Department has provided funding to two organisations working specifically with elderly Irish emigrants considering returning to Ireland — the Safe Home Programme and the Crosscare Migrant Project. The award of a €249,900 grant in April of this year brought the Department's total funding for Safe Home since 2005 to over €900,000. I have also approved funding of €159,000 this year to support the Crosscare Migrant Project, bringing the total Emigrant Support funding awarded to the organisation since 2005 to €475,000. This substantial funding is testament to the high value which the Government places on their work.

I can assure the Deputy that the Government remains committed to supporting frontline welfare agencies and organisations. As the Deputy will appreciate, however, all grant applications for Emigrant Support funding are reviewed on their respective merits each year.

Joe Costello

Question:

308 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will respond to correspondence; if he proposes to increase the funding of the safe home programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33282/08]

As the Deputy will be aware, the Government have progressively and substantially increased the level of funding available for emigrant services in recent years. These increases have enabled the Emigrant Support Programme, administered by the Irish Abroad Unit of my Department, to provide greater financial support to frontline welfare organisations which assist the most vulnerable members of our overseas communities, including the Safe Home Programme.

My Department continues to be very supportive of the work undertaken by the Safe Home Programme. The award of a €249,900 grant in April of this year brought the Department's total funding to the organisation since 2003 to over €1,100,000. In 2007, additional Government funding, totalling €72,000, was also awarded to the Safe Home Programme by the Department of Environment and Local Government and the Department of Social and Family Affairs. This substantial funding is testament to the high value which the Government places on the work performed by the organisation in enabling elderly Irish emigrants to return to live in Ireland.

I can assure the Deputy that the Government remains committed to supporting frontline welfare agencies and organisations. As the Deputy will appreciate, however, all grant applications for Emigrant Support funding are reviewed on their respective merits each year.

Finally, I should say that a reply has issued to the correspondence referred to in the Deputy's question.

Foreign Conflicts.

Pat Breen

Question:

309 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress to date in implementing the July 2004 decision of the International Court of Justice that it remove the wall it has built in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and supported by the UN General Assembly in resolution ES-10/15 of August 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33324/08]

In summer 2002, the Government of Israel decided to erect a physical barrier between Israel and Palestinian communities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, with the stated purpose of preventing Palestinian suicide bombers from entering Israel. In an advisory opinion of 9 July 2004, the International Court of Justice found that the construction of the wall by Israel, the occupying power in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT), was contrary to international law. The Court found that Israel was under an obligation to cease construction of the wall in the OPT, to dismantle the structure already erected, and to repeal all legislative and regulatory acts related to the construction. Furthermore, Israel was required to make reparations for all damage caused by the construction, and other States were found to be under an obligation not to recognise the wall or assist in its maintenance.

In its resolution ES-10/15 of 2 August 2004, the UN General Assembly, inter alia, demanded Israeli compliance with the ICJ advisory opinion, called upon all UN Member States to comply with their legal obligations, and requested the UN Secretary General to establish a register of damage caused. On 24 January 2007, the UN General Assembly voted to establish the UN Register of Damage caused by the Wall in the Occupied Territories (UNRoD). It will serve as a record of the material damage caused as a result of the construction of the wall but will not be a basis for dealing with claims for compensation.

The Israeli Government has clearly failed to comply with the advisory opinion of the ICJ, or with UN General Assembly Resolution ES-10/15. As of May 2008, 409 kilometres of the wall (57 per cent of the planned route) had been built, 66 kilometres (9 per cent) were under construction, and construction of the remaining 248 kilometres (34 per cent) had yet to begin. The wall has introduced new restrictions on movement for Palestinians living near its route , in addition to pre-existing restrictions. It has a major impact on Palestinian villages, towns and cities, isolating communities and separating tens of thousands of people from services, lands and livelihoods.

I raised Ireland's strong concerns about the wall directly with Israeli Foreign Minister, Tzipi Livni, during my meeting with her in July, emphasising the hardship that its presence is causing in the lives of ordinary Palestinians.

Ireland and its EU partners have consistently urged the Israeli Government to cease all activities in the Occupied Territories, including settlement building, the construction of the wall on occupied land and the demolition of Palestinian homes, which are contrary to international law and which threaten to make any solution based on the co-existence of two viable States physically impossible. In this regard, in my recent speech to the General Assembly of the United Nations, I said that an end to the construction of illegal settlements would send a strong and welcome sign of good faith at a difficult and uncertain time, and I strongly urged Israel to listen to the concerned voice of the international community.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

310 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in his Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33338/08]

As the Deputy will be aware, I have only been in my current ministerial role since May of this year and so it is not possible to provide a year-on-year comparison of my carbon footprint in this post.

Using the carbon calculator on the Government's climate change awareness website, www.change.ie , the carbon emissions arising for my official travel, for the period May 2008 to date, have been calculated as 12.55 tonnes. As above, there is no comparable figure available for the previous year.

In relation to my colleague, the Minister of State for Overseas Development, Mr. Peter Power T.D., the carbon emissions for the period of time which he has been in his current office, i.e. May 2008 to date, have been calculated as 11.45 tonnes. No comparable figure is available for the previous year.

For my colleague, the Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Dick Roche T.D., the carbon emissions have been calculated as 16.72 tonnes per annum, from 1 October 2007 to date. As Minister of State Roche was appointed to his present post in June 2007, no comparable figure is available for the previous year.

My Department is participating in the Government's carbon offsetting scheme for official travel. The portion of the carbon emissions stated above, which relate to air travel, will be appropriately offset, in the context of that scheme.

Emigrant Support Services.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

311 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the initiatives being worked on to help those who emigrated more than 50 years ago and who now wish to return home; the discussions that have taken place with other appropriate Governments, particularly those of the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia, to facilitate the homecoming of those émigrés who wish to return. [33364/08]

According to Central Statistics Office estimates, approximately 16,200 Irish emigrants returned to live in Ireland in the past year, bringing the total number of returned emigrants since 2003 to over 107,000.

As the Deputy will be aware, the vast majority of returning emigrants do not request State assistance in making arrangements for their return. However, some returning emigrants do require support and, in this context, my Department allocates financial support to frontline welfare organisations which assist such people.

My Department has provided funding to two organisations working specifically in this area, the Safe Home Programme and the Crosscare Migrant Project. The award of a €249,900 grant in April of this year brought the Department's total funding for Safe Home since 2005 to over €900,000. I have also approved funding of €159,000 this year to support the Crosscare Migrant Project, bringing the total Emigrant Support funding awarded to the organisation since 2005 to €475,000. This substantial funding is testament to the high value which the Government places on their work. The Government remains committed to supporting frontline welfare agencies and organisations.

In addition, our network of Missions overseas are happy to advise Irish citizens who contact them seeking information on returning to live in Ireland.

As regards the involvement of authorities in other countries, while they would not usually have a direct role in the process, we would of course seek their assistance if it was needed in a particular case.

Foreign Conflicts.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

312 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the findings of the World Bank in its recent report Palestinian Economic Prospects that 98% of Gaza’s industrial operations are inactive, he will make a statement on Israel’s continuing blockade of Gaza, despite the cessation of rockets firing out of Gaza. [33432/08]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

313 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the contacts his officials have had with Hamas in view of a statement (details supplied) made on 11 March 2008. [33433/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 312 and 313 together.

The Government remains seriously concerned about the humanitarian and security situation in Gaza, where the population of 1.5 million have been facing unsustainable conditions of daily life. Aid dependency is now at an all-time high. We have consistently called for an end to the isolation of the people of Gaza, in particular through the re-opening of crossing points for people and goods. In my recent speech to the General Assembly of the United Nations, I stated my strong view that improving conditions on the ground in the Palestinian Territories would make a significant and critical contribution to creating the right context for talks between Israel and the Palestinians to succeed.

Ireland will continue to work with EU partners to ensure that our concerns about these matters are conveyed to the Israeli Government at every appropriate opportunity. I also conveyed the Government's concerns directly to Foreign Minister Livni during my visit to Israel on 9-10 July 2008. I emphasised the importance of full implementation of the Roadmap for Peace in the Middle East, including the lifting of restrictions on access and movement, and an immediate freeze of Israeli settlements. I argued strongly that Israel has to provide the Palestinian people with evidence that the political process works and can lead to an improvement in their daily lives, and stressed that we regarded the isolation of Gaza as politically counterproductive and unjust.

The Government warmly welcomes the continuing ceasefire in Gaza, in force since 19 June, as well as the improvement in the security situation in the West Bank. We hope that measures taken to date will contribute to an end to all violence in and from the Occupied Territories, and facilitate the urgent reopening of crossing points for people and goods and a lifting of restrictions on the movement of Palestinians, both in Gaza and the West Bank.

In line with EU policy, we continue to have no contact with Hamas. However, the Government believes that there can be no overall political settlement which does not include Gaza, and that Hamas will inevitably have to be brought into the process. In this regard, it would be particularly helpful if Hamas took steps to build confidence in its intentions. Furthermore, we strongly support ongoing efforts by Egypt, on behalf of the Arab League, to work with all parties to bring about Palestinian reconciliation. If these efforts succeed, it will be necessary for the international community to review its policy towards Hamas.

Car Rental Industry.

Jack Wall

Question:

314 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on correspondence (details supplied); the effect it is having in relation to increased costs to tourists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33270/08]

Neither I, nor any of the agencies under the aegis of the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism, have responsibility in relation to the car rental industry or the level of tolls on the M50.

As I understand it, the Deputy is concerned with increased charges arising from the introduction of barrier-free tolling on the M50 motorway and, in particular, the introduction by a car rental company of a handling fee per toll incurred by those renting cars. This proposed charge, which I understand has yet to be levied on any customer by the company referred to in the correspondence provided by the Deputy, applies to tourists and non-tourists alike.

In regard to additional individual handling charges introduced by commercial car rental companies, my advice when renting a car, in this highly competitive market, is to shop around among the many car rental companies available to obtain the best value possible and, in making their rental choice, take into account all charges levied by individual operators.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

315 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in his Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33330/08]

Making use of the website of the Government's climate change awareness campaign, www.change.ie, to work out the carbon footprint, the Department has estimated that since I was appointed in May 2008 the carbon emissions arising in the course of my ministerial functions amounted to approximately 21.27 tonnes. Of this, 5.17 tonnes related to air travel, which is fully offset under the Government’s carbon offsetting scheme for official travel. There is no equivalent figure for the previous year since I was only appointed in May 2008.

The Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism, Martin Mansergh, TD, has no permanent facilities at the Department. Accordingly, information in respect of carbon emissions arising from his ministerial functions would be provided in the reply from the Minister of Finance.

Swimming Pool Projects.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

316 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding the construction of a swimming pool in Wexford town in respect of Wexford Borough Council; if funding has been allocated; when the project is expected to be completed; if this project has been assessed as part of the value for money audit undertaken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33414/08]

Under the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme there are four principal stages in a swimming pool project which are: Feasibility Study/Preliminary Report; Contract Documents; Tender and Construction. Local authorities may not proceed to the next stage of a project until prior approval issues from my Department. Grant aid is formally allocated only when the tender is approved. The Department's technical advisers, the Office of Public Works (OPW), evaluates each stage.

My Department approved the Contract Documents for the Ferrybank, Wexford Swimming Pool Project in November 2007, allowing Wexford Borough Council to prepare tender documentation. The Council submitted tender documentation on 29 September 2008. The tender documentation is currently being evaluated by the OPW, which acts as technical adviser to the Department, and will then be considered by my Department.

The Value for Money and Policy Review Report of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme, which was published recently, was carried out by the Department to examine, among other things, how the Programme has worked to date, and what changes, are required to ensure its effective and efficient delivery. It did not assess individual projects under the current round of the Programme.

Tourism Industry.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

317 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his attention has been drawn to the concerns in the tourist industry that the marketing budget, particularly in the US market, should be maintained in the current climate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33440/08]

This year saw record levels of Exchequer current investment for Tourism services — a total of almost €153 million. Within this, an amount of €50 million was provided for overseas marketing of Ireland as a tourist destination, the highest ever amount provided for such purposes and an increase of 11% on the 2007 provision.

Next year's budgets for tourism will be decided in the context of the Estimates process which, as the Deputy is aware, is ongoing. Obviously we are in a particularly challenging economic situation at present and in allocating resources, the Government must balance competing demands from every part of our economy and society. In this regard, I am aware that this is also a challenging time for the tourism industry and I am committed to seeking the optimum funding, including funding for international tourism marketing, within a framework of sound public finances and value for money to help ensure that the impressive tourism performance in recent years is maintained in the years ahead. In terms of prioritising the overseas markets to focus on and the breakdown of spend between these markets, these will of course be primarily matters for the tourism agencies to determine.

Sports Capital Programme.

Catherine Byrne

Question:

318 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if, in view of the ongoing problems of gangland crime and drugs in Crumlin and Drimnagh, Dublin 12, and the negative effect this has on young people in the area, he will commit to improve facilities for the area, particularly in an area (details supplied) which is in need of new toilets and changing facilities that have been promised but are still not in place. [33598/08]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

324 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if funding will be made available to ensure that Dublin City Council provide basic dressing room and toilet facilities in a park (details supplied) in Dublin 12; and if officials from his Department will contact the local authority to ascertain the delay in building these facilities. [33714/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 318 and 324 together.

Under the sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, funding is allocated to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country.

Through the programme my Department has allocated €894,487 to Dublin City Council for the project referred to in the questions, which I agree is a much needed facility for the Crumlin area.

While the draw down of this funding is primarily a matter for Dublin City Council, my officials are always available to assist grantees in expediting this process.

Sport and Recreational Development.

John O'Mahony

Question:

319 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his plans to establish a Beijing review group; the timeframe for the publication of its report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33610/08]

The Irish Sports Council (ISC), which is funded by my Department, has statutory responsibility for encouraging the promotion, development and co-ordination of competitive sport and the achievement of excellence in competitive sport. In this regard the ISC works in partnership with the Irish Institute of Sport, the Olympic Council of Ireland, the Paralympic Council of Ireland and the relevant governing bodies of sport in the preparation of Irish athletes for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

I understand that the ISC has established a review group to examine the preparations and performances at the 2008 Beijing Games in order to prepare for the 2012 London Games. The overall aim of the review is to make recommendations to the ISC in respect of structures, programmes and investment policy which should be pursued based on the outcomes of the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Legislative Programme.

John O'Mahony

Question:

320 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his legislative plans for the current Dáil session; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33611/08]

I wish to refer the Deputy to the Government's Legislation Programme for the forthcoming Dáil Session which was announced by the Government Chief Whip on 23 September 2008, which is available at www.taoiseach.gov.ie

Sports Capital Programme.

Pat Breen

Question:

321 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism further to Parliamentary Question No. 1157 of 24 September 2008, the funding allocated to all clubs and organisations here for the years 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33686/08]

I refer to the reply to Question No.1157 of 24 September 2008. The position is unchanged.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

322 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of sports capital grants awarded in each county for the years 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008; the number of these grants by county which have not been drawn down; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33688/08]

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

323 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the name of each applicant and club on a county basis and the year in which each grant was awarded in respect of sports capital grants not drawn down for the years 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33689/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 322 and 323 together.

Under the sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, funding is allocated to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country.

The information in relation to the number of grants awarded under the Sports Capital Programme to each county is contained in the table.

Sports Capital Programme — Number of Allocations 2005-2008

2005

2006

2007

2008

Allocations

Allocations

Allocations

Allocations

Carlow

11

9

13

9

Cavan

11

17

24

8

Clare

21

20

32

24

Cork

77

91

110

83

Donegal

22

32

37

33

Dublin

92

122

133

88

Galway

35

50

56

46

Kerry

43

64

62

37

Kildare

16

19

17

21

Kilkenny

17

21

24

17

Laois

14

17

19

18

Leitrim

9

13

13

9

Limerick

35

42

48

35

Longford

11

13

18

12

Louth

21

21

27

20

Mayo

19

29

43

29

Meath

21

17

23

25

Monaghan

14

21

19

14

Offaly

25

22

32

13

Roscommon

14

16

15

12

Sligo

10

19

19

12

Tipperary

25

35

50

36

Waterford

21

23

26

24

Westmeath

9

12

19

17

Wexford

20

33

37

25

Wicklow

15

19

19

18

TOTAL

628

797

935

685

In 2005 and 2006 the following allocations were made to a number of strategic facilities outside of the formal Sports Capital Programme process timetable.

2005

€2,994,233 to assist Eircom League clubs to meet UEFA License requirements. The decision to allocate €3m was taken in December 2003 but the actual allocations were only made and announced in July 2005 to 14 selected grounds as follows:

Athlone Town €600,000; Terryland Park Galway €500,000; Waterford Regional Sports Centre €500,000; Limerick FC €300,000; Longford Town €204,000; Monaghan United €200,000; Kildare County €200,000; Cobh Ramblers €150,000; Shelbourne FC €104,093; Kilkenny City €100,000; Turner's Cross, Cork €52,000; UCD €40,000; Drogheda United €30,000; Bohemians €14,140.

Allocations announced in December '05 in respect of equipment requirements of some NGBs and also a range of regional and national projects which had already been funded but not to the level that the projects may have merited:

Pearse Stadium €1.5m; Limerick Gaelic Grounds €1m; Salthill Devon FC €1m; DCC — Irishtown Stadium €930,000; An Ríocht A.C. €625,000; Irish Amateur Boxing Association — National Stadium €500,000; Basketball Ireland €500,000; Markievicz Park, Sligo €400,000; Bunclody AFC €400,000; Tennis Ireland — National Development Centre €330,000; Athletic Association of Ireland €209,278; Ennis Town Council Lees Road Centre €200,000; Duneske Leisure Centre, Cahir €200,000; Football Association of Ireland €150,000; Irish Amateur Rowing Union €125,141; Mayo Association Football League €100,000.

An allocation of €85,000 was also made to the FAI in December 2005 in respect of development works at Derry City FC. 2006 26 allocations totalling €10,679,360 announced in December '06 in respect of a range of regional and national projects which had already been funded but not to the level that the projects may have merited and of the equipment requirements of some NGBs.

Eight allocations, totalling €841,637 for high performance sports equipment as part of preparations for Beijing 2008:

Irish Amateur Boxing Association €109,100; Irish Canoe Union €56,146; Cycling Ireland €111,600; Irish Hockey Association €23,800; Irish Amateur Rowing Union €163,566; Irish Sailing Association €255,900; Paralympic Council of Ireland €96,825; Irish Clay Pigeon Shooting Association €24,700.

26 Local Authorities were allocated €1.6m (€25,000 each to 64 synthetic pitches) in November '06 as part of the FAI Mini-Pitch programme. The allocations were as follows:

Carlow Town Council €65,000 allocation to the IRFU for works completed in 2005 in Lansdowne Road due to fire damage.

Information in relation to allocations made each year but not yet drawn down is not kept on a county basis and the compilation of this information would involve a disproportionate amount of time and work. However, information is kept on the basis of outstanding allocations for each round of the sports capital programme. The amount of outstanding commitments from 2005 to 2008 is contained in the table.

Sports Capital Programme (subhead C1) — Total Commitments by year of allocation

Year

Outstanding

Subhead Allocation

Paid/Settled

% not drawn down

% drawn down

%

%

2008

47,390,000

50,250,000

2,860,000

94.31

5.69

2007

59,533,240

85,000,000

25,466,760

70.04

29.96

2006

35,114,892

91,835,997

56,721,105

38.24

61.76

2005

16,114,984

66,233,652

50,118,668

24.33

75.67

It can take clubs a significant amount of time to draw down grants as they meet the legal, funding and technical requirements under the Programme and in the interests of fairness I do propose to publish a list of the names of these clubs.

Question No. 324 answered with Question No. 318.

Dan Neville

Question:

325 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding a club (details supplied) in County Limerick; the status of this application; if he has made a decision on a National Lottery grant; and if the club has been successful. [33833/08]

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 did not meet a number of the qualifying conditions of the Programme in that the proof of title and the evidence of own funding provided was not sufficient.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

326 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in his Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33332/08]

The Deputy will be aware that the website of the Government's climate change awareness campaign, www.change.ie, provides a carbon calculator which enables everyone to work out their own carbon footprint.

Using this tool, my Department has estimated that the carbon footprint arising in the context of my ministerial functions amounted to 7.04 tonnes in respect of air travel in the year to 13 June 2008, of which 4.81 tonnes will be offset under the Government's carbon offsetting scheme for official travel. The carbon footprint in respect of air travel for the period 14 June 2008 to 30 September 2008 amounted to 2.77 tonnes, all of which will be fully offset under the Government's carbon offsetting scheme for official travel.

Due to the timeframe involved, it is not possible to provide an estimate of the carbon footprint in respect of use by me of the official ministerial car but the relevant information will be sent to the Deputy when the mileage details have been received from the Department of Justice, Equality and law Reform.

On the same basis, my Department has calculated the following carbon emissions arising from the functions of the Ministers of State at my Department with special responsibility for Drugs Strategy and Community Affairs in the period 14 June 2007 to 30 September 2008:

Minister of State

Period

Carbon footprint

Air travel

To be offset under Government scheme

Mr Pat Carey, T.D.

21 June 2007 to 7 May 2008

7.24 tonnes

0.83 tonnes

0.83 tonnes

Mr John Curran, T.D.

13 May 2008 to 30 Sept 2008

0.75 tonnes

0.15 tonnes

0.15 tonnes

Community Development.

Jackie Healy-Rae

Question:

327 Deputy Jackie Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will reassess the situation regarding co-funding in the Leader Programme (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33437/08]

As the Deputy may be aware, the overall funding of €425m that will be available under the LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme is almost three times the funding available under the last LEADER Programmes. In addition, the rates of aid and maximum levels of funding available are significantly increased, in particular for non-commercial community projects.

I am aware of the provisions of the Programme restricting co-funding with other public bodies. Notwithstanding the significantly increased funding and rates of aid available, I am in favour of facilitating co-funding with certain other public bodies in particular circumstances, however, this will require a change to the Rural Development Programme. As this is an EU co-funded programme requests for changes must follow a particular protocol and my Department is currently in the process of preparing a submission to the European Commission in this context. I will report the outcome of this process as soon as it is complete.

Michael Ring

Question:

328 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason community service applicants will not be notified until September 2009 about their applications, with funding not coming on stream until early 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33655/08]

The Community Services Programme (CSP) is managed and funded by my Department. As the Deputy is aware, the purpose of the Programme is to support voluntary and community groups in the wider community to provide essential services and employment opportunities with an emphasis on the alleviation of disadvantage. Currently, some 350 projects are in contract to provide services under the Programme and ranging across a wide variety of activities.

In March of this year, I launched the 2008 call for proposals to be submitted by the end of June. The published criteria set out very clearly the processes and timetable that would be used to offer contracts to successful applicants for the delivery of services funded by the Programme. Some 254 applications and expressions of interest were received: 100 applications were in respect of community halls and facilities; 95 in respect of community services and 59 for community enterprise. Applications received by the end of June were acknowledged during July and an initial appraisal of the each application was undertaken during August and September to ensure eligibility and completeness of documentation.

In line with the published timetable, I expect that recommendations in respect of the community halls and facilities strand will be submitted to me for decision later this month and successful applicants can expect to receive notification of the result of their application by the end of November 2008.

With regard to the other two strands, appraisal of expressions of interest will be completed before the end of November or early December. I expect to be in a position to make decision on these by the end of January at the latest. Applicants who are successful under the call for expressions of interest will then be considered further in the light of the financial measures available to the Department in 2009.

Departmental Agencies.

Michael Creed

Question:

329 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of staff employed by Pobal; the annual budget for this organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33831/08]

Pobal is a not-for-profit company with charitable status that manages programmes on behalf of the Government and the EU. In addition to my Department, POBAL manages programmes on behalf of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the Office of the Minister for Children, the Department of Transport, the Department of Social and Family Affairs and the Higher Education Authority.

I understand that Pobal has a staff compliment of 270 full time posts. According to its Annual Report and Accounts for 2007 (the last full year for which figures are available) the funding advanced to POBAL for both Programme and administration costs was €377.6m of which total operating expenses came to €17.4m.

Pobal's Annual Report and Accounts for 2007 has been laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas.

Rural Transport Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

330 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the financial or other assistance given to rural community transport projects in County Kildare in areas not served by public transport in order to meet the needs of those entitled to free travel; his proposals in this regard for the remainder of 2008 and in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33839/08]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

340 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number and location or community and rural transport schemes currently supported by his Department; his proposals for further development in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33849/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 330 and 340 together.

On the 30th of April 2007 I announced details of a night-time rural transport scheme to be run on a pilot basis, in 7 areas around the country.

The 34 groups currently delivering the Rural Transport Programme operated by the Department of Transport, were invited to submit applications. Following the appraisal of the proposals submitted, seven groups were selected to run the pilot Scheme, namely:

West Cork Rural Transport;

Avondhu Development Group in East Cork;

Meath Accessible/Kilnaleck Community Cavan;

County Sligo LEADER Partnership;

Tumna Shannon Development Company Roscommon;

Síob Teoranta Donegal; and

Laois Trip.

The Rural Transport Night Scheme, however, does not operate in County Kildare. It is my intention that the pilot scheme will be reviewed towards the end of 2008 and decisions in relation to its future will be informed by the outcome of the evaluation.

In addition the Rural Social Scheme (RSS), which has become a key part of many rural communities throughout Ireland provides resources to maintain and improve local amenities and to generate important social inclusion benefits to community members such as supporting rural transport schemes. The following list indicates the number and location of such transport services in 2007.

Location/Community Supported

1

Crossmolina, Community Council, Co. Mayo

1

Ballina, Co. Mayo

1

Dromore West, Co. Sligo

1

Tullamore, Co. Offaly

1

Clarecastle, Co Clare

1

Kilmaley, Co. Clare

1

Greater Cahirciveen Area, Co. Kerry

1

Kilmaine, Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo

1

Irishtown, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary

1

Kilcommon, Co. Tipperary

1

Scartaglin, Co. Kerry

1

Castleisland, Co. Kerry

1

Knocknogoshel, Co. Kerry

1

Listowel, Co. Kerry

1

Midleton, Co. Cork

1

Ballinasloe, Co. Galway

1

Na Gleanntaí Dún na nGall

1

Cluain Droichead, Co. Chorcaí

Total

18

Grant Payments.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

331 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number and location of applications for grant aid or other funding received in his Department by various groups throughout County Kildare to date in 2008; the extent to which he has responded to such requests or will do so before the end of 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33840/08]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

332 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the extent and location of grant aid or other assistance provided by his Department throughout County Kildare to date in 2008; his proposals for the remainder of 2008 in this regard; his projection for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33841/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 331 and 332 together.

The position in relation to 2008 is set out in the following table. The Deputy will appreciate that decisions as to funding in 2009 will not be made until the details of the Public Services Estimates have been finalised in the context of the Budget.

Name of organisation

No. of applications received in 2008

Location

Applications awarded funding in 2008

Applications still awaiting decision

Number to be decided before end 2008?

Amount awarded

Co Kildare Centre for the Unemployed Ltd

2

Newbridge & Athy

0

2

2

N/A

Leixlip Resource Centre

1

Leixlip

0

In appraisal process

0

N/A

Newtown Senior Citizens Active Retirement Ireland

1

Enfield

0

In appraisal process

0

N/A

Celbridge Community Council

2

Celbridge

2

0

0

4,890.98

Monasterevan Old Folks

1

Coole, Monasterevan

1

0

0

2,815.09

Naas & District Community Alert

3

Naas

3

0

0

24,000

Newbridge Assoc for the Care of the Elderly

1

Newbridge

1

0

0

3,847.68

Rathangan Core Group

1

Rathangan

1

0

0

16,645

Staplestown Community Alert group

1

Staplestown, Donadea

1

0

0

2,600

The Bridge Community Development Programme

2

Newbridge

2

0

0

4,635.50

Kildare Volunteer Bureau

1

Newbridge

1

0

0

126,690

ACCORD

1

Maynooth

1

0

0

47,000

Breaking Through Ltd

1

Leixlip

1

0

0

73,000

Athy Community Development Project Ltd

*N/A

Athy

*N/A

*N/A

*N/A

114,800

North West Kildare CDP

*N/A

Allenwood

*N/A

*N/A

*N/A

112,300

The Bridge Community Development Programme

*N/A

Newbridge

*N/A

*N/A

*N/A

130,000

OAK Partnership (Offaly & Kildare Partnership)

*N/A

North West Kildare

*N/A

*N/A

*N/A

**483,188

Kildare Community Partnership

*N/A

South Kildare

*N/A

*N/A

*N/A

792,335

RAPID Leverage scheme: Playgrounds

1

Athy

1

0

0

66,000

RAPID Leverage Scheme: Sports Capital Top-Up

***2

Athy

2

0

0

21,750

Community Drug Team: Kildare / West Wicklow

1

Naas,Newbridge

1

0

0

340,112

Abbey Project

1

Celbridge

1

0

0

80,341

Kildare European LEADER II Teoranta(Delivery of Rural Social Scheme)

N/A

Kildare

N/A

0

0

****27,854

*Funding under the Community Development Programme is multi-annual based.
**Specifically for Co. Kildare. The total allocation was €966,376
***The Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism (DAST) receive and administer all applications, including the Top-up element. My Department cross-checks the RAPID top-up cases against the DAST lists and if all in order, my Department pays our element of the funding directly to the Groups.
****The total funding is €27,854 comprising Capital funding of €5,000, material of €6,104, animation funding of €3,000 and administration funding of €13,750. Direct payments to participants and supervisors on the Rural Social Scheme in Co. Kildare, i.e. wages, is €279,951.
Question No. 333 answered with Question No. 153.

Architectural Heritage.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

334 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the extent of discussions he has had or will have with the owners of Donadea Castle, County Kildare and ancillary buildings with the possible objective of acquiring the property directly or in conjunction with other local or national bodies with a view to acquisition and development for local and national community, tourism and educational purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33843/08]

I have had no such discussions and I have no plans to do so.

Question No. 335 answered with Question No. 153.

Community Development.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

336 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the extent to which he has grant aided or otherwise assisted various projects here in 2008 under the CLÁR programme; the degree to which this corresponds with budgetary projections; if adjustments are proposed in the course of the remainder of 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33845/08]

To date in 2008 €14.691m has been provided to various projects under the CLÁR programme. This represents almost 70% of the total allocation of €21.183 for this year. Given its popularity and emerging demand I anticipate an additional spend of the order of €3m on the programme this year.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

337 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number and nature of projects, funded by his Department to date in 2008 under the RAPID programme; the extent to which this is in line budgetary projections; his proposals for further development in this area in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33846/08]

The RAPID Programme aims to ensure that priority attention is given to tackling the spatial concentration of poverty and social exclusion within 46 designated RAPID areas nationally. As I have indicated to the House on a number of occasions, it is a matter for individual Departments to report progress under the RAPID programme.

I initiated the RAPID leverage schemes in 2004 in order to support small-scale projects identified locally by the Area Implementation Teams in each of the RAPID areas. These schemes are co-funded by the relevant agencies and fund projects that focus on estate enhancement, graffiti removal, traffic calming, community closed-circuit television, health and sports facilities, and the provision of playgrounds and multi-use games areas. These schemes are subject to ongoing review to ensure that they remain responsive to the demands of the RAPID communities. Where opportunities arise, the eligibility of individual schemes can be extended to reflect emerging needs identified by the Area Implementation Teams in each of the RAPID areas.

To date in 2008 the following amounts have been allocated to each of the strands funded under the RAPID Programme.

Number of Projects

Funded to date 2008

Sports Capital

33

907,832

Health Sector Co-Fund

18

267,423

Local Authority Housing Estate Enhancement Scheme

15

302,160

Playgrounds

11

657,304

Traffic Measures

10

219,802

Small Scale Capital Grants Scheme for Schools*

2,057,600

Total

4,412,123

In addition my Department co-funds 33 projects in RAPID areas under the Community-Based CCTV Scheme with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform which administers this Scheme.

The total allocation for RAPID Leverage for 2008 is €9.3 million, this consists of €7.8 million for capital and €1.5 million for current expenditure, the spend in the year to-date is in line with budgetary projections.

Disbursements from the Dormant Accounts Fund are designed to assist three broad categories of persons — those who are socially or economically disadvantaged; those who are educationally disadvantaged; and persons with a disability. Funding is provided from the Dormant Accounts Fund through the Votes of relevant lead Departments.

Matters in relation to 2009 will be considered in the context of available resources for the RAPID programme next year.

National Lottery Funding.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

338 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the extent of spending by his Department from the proceeds of the national lottery to date in 2008; if his is in line with budgetary projections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33847/08]

As the Deputy is aware, an allocation of €250 million is being provided from the National Lottery in 2008 for expenditure through the Votes of various Departments.

Three of the subheads in my Department's Vote are partially funded by the National Lottery. The full allocation for these subheads is contained in the following table.

Allocation 2008

€000

B.1 Supports for Community and Voluntary Sector

26,047

B.3 Local and Community Development Programmes

83,450

F.1 Payments to Ciste na Gaeilge

5,365

As at end-September 2008, expenditure in respect of these subheads, which was broadly in line with monthly budgetary projections, is contained in the following table.

Spend to end-September 2008

€000

B.1 Supports for Community and Voluntary Sector

14,525

B.3 Local and Community Development Programmes

57,523

F.1 Payments to Ciste na Gaeilge

3,327

Dormant Accounts Fund.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

339 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount spent to date in 2008 under the various schemes operated by his Department here and funded by the dormant accounts fund; the degree to which this is in line with earlier projections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33848/08]

During 2008, my Department implemented the following measures funded from the Dormant Accounts Fund:

Annual RAPID Additionality Measures;

Flagship Measure funding two flagship projects;

Recreation and Development for Disadvantaged Youth; and

Substance Misuse Measure.

Expenditure on these measures at the end of August 2008 amounted to some €5.277m. Of this, €5.2m was expended on projects under the RAPID Additionality Measures; €50,000 on the two flagship projects and some €27,000 was spent on projects under the Recreation and Development for Disadvantaged Youth Measure. Expenditure on the Substance Misuse Measure is not expected to begin until 2009.

Expenditure is running somewhat ahead of projections due to the earlier delivery of some projects.

Question No. 340 answered with Question No. 330.

Planning Issues.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

341 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if, arising from his previously expressed views in this regard, his attention has been drawn to the concerns of some rural communities arising from the decisions made by a number of local authorities to refuse planning permission to the indigenous population thereby likely to cause rural depopulation; if he has had discussions with his Ministerial colleagues with a view to addressing this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33850/08]

The question of planning permission is primarily a matter for local authorities and these operate under guidelines and legislation prepared by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

I am cognisant however, of the concerns of some rural communities regarding the issues around the granting of planning permission.

I believe that balanced physical planning is crucial and it is to ensure this balance that the National Spatial Strategy clearly sets out the principals on which one-off houses should be granted in the countryside. It clearly articulates the right of those, with a connection to the countryside by way of background or by way of employment, to live and be granted planning permission in rural Ireland. On the other hand the National Spatial Strategy, particularly in areas under urban pressures, sets its face squarely against the explosion of urban generated housing.

Cruthú Fostaíochta.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

342 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Dinny McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad iad na hiarrachtaí atá á ndéanamh le fostaíocht a chrúthú i nGaeltacht iar-thuaisceart Dhún na nGall; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [33851/08]

Mar atá curtha in iúl don Teachta cheana, tá feachtas láidir leanúnach ar siúl ag Údarás na Gaeltachta le haghaidh tograí a aimsiú chun breis fostaíochta a chur ar fáil ar fud na Gaeltachta agus is amhlaidh atá i nGaeltacht Iar-Thuaisceart Dhún na nGall.

Go ginearálta, i láthair na huaire tá tuairim agus 740 fostaithe ar Pháirc Ghnó Ghaoth Dobhair. Tá meascán níos leithne fostaíochta le feiceáil anois ar an Pháirc Ghnó ná mar a bhíodh agus, le níos mó comhlachtaí beaga dúchasacha ag teacht chun cinn, níltear ag brath an oiread ar na hearnálacha traidisiúnta déantúsaíochta.

Athrú suntasach eile atá le sonrú ná an fhorbairt mhór atá tagtha ar an fhostaíocht sa tionscail bia agus i gcomhlachtaí gaolmhara. Tá cúig chomhlacht ina iomláine san earnáil seo ag cur fostaíochta ar fáil do 49% d'fhostaithe Pháirc Ghnó Ghaoth Dobhair i láthair na huaire.

Sa bhliain reatha, mar thoradh ar ghníomhaíochtaí an Údaráis chun breis fostaíochta a ghiniúint, tuigim go bhfuil idirbheartaíocht curtha nó á cur i gcrích le roinnt comhlachtaí sonracha a d'fhéadfadh suas le 300 post breise a chur ar fáil sna trí bliana amach romhainn.

Forbairt na nOileán.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

343 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Dinny McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad é an dul chun cinn atá deánta maidir le haerstráice Oileán Thoraigh; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [33852/08]

Dírím aird an Teachta ar an bhfreagra a thug mé ar Cheist Dála Uimh.32 ar 15 Bealtaine 2008.

Ar iarratas ó mo Roinnse, tá Comhairle Chontae Dhún na nGall, i gcomhairle le hÚdarás na Gaeltachta, ag leanacht ar aghaidh leis an phróiseas chun Orduithe Ceannacháin Éigeantaigh a chur i bhfeidhm ar an talamh a theastaíonn don aerstráice ar Oileán Thoraigh.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

344 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare qualifies for rent support; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33585/08]

Rent supplement is administered on behalf of the Department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive (HSE), as part of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.

The Executive has advised that it has no record of an application for rent supplement from the person concerned. She should contact the community welfare services if she wishes to make an application for rent supplement.

Security of the Elderly.

Pat Breen

Question:

345 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if an emergency system will be put in place in the interest of security for elderly people who are living alone, encountering problems with their telephones and having to wait for some time before repairs are carried out for them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33275/08]

The telephone allowance is a component of the household benefits package which is generally available to people living in the State, aged 66 years or over who are in receipt of a social welfare payment or who satisfy a means test. It is also available to people aged under 66 who are in receipt of certain social welfare payments.

The primary objective of the telephone allowance scheme is to ensure access to help in an emergency and to provide an element of security. A secondary objective is to encourage social contact and to assist in the prevention of social isolation for those living alone. In April 2007 the telephone allowance was extended to include mobile phones. Since then people have the choice of either opting for a direct credit to a telephone company for their landline or for a cash payment in respect of their mobile phone. Getting a mobile phone may be an option for people who are experiencing disruption to their landline service. People who wish to switch their telephone allowance to a mobile phone can receive a cash payment from the Department towards the cost of the mobile service. There are currently over 15,000 people availing of the mobile phone option.

Issues regarding service provision and telephone maintenance are matters for the telephone companies.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

346 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she has held discussions with the Ministers for Finance and Enterprise, Trade and Employment regarding the request of associations (details supplied) that carers would be permitted to compete for community employment scheme positions. [33290/08]

Supporting and recognising carers in our society is, and has been, a priority of the Government since 1997. Over that period, weekly payment rates to carers have been greatly increased, qualifying conditions for carer's allowance have been significantly eased, coverage of the scheme has been extended and new schemes such as carer's benefit and the respite care grant have been introduced and extended.

One of the fundamental qualifying conditions for carer's allowance, carer's benefit and the respite care grant is that the person be providing full-time care and attention to a person who needs such care.

Since the introduction of the carer's allowance scheme this full time care and attention requirement has been eased in order to facilitate carers in engaging in employment, education or training.

The number of hours a person may engage in employment, self employment, training or education outside the home and still be considered to be providing full-time care and attention was increased from 10 to 15 hours per week in June 2006.

Participation on a community employment scheme involves a placement of 39 hours per fortnight and so carer's payments are not payable to people engaged on community employment schemes.

Although there are no plans to increase the number of hours for which people can engage in employment, education or training outside the home and still be eligible for a carer's payment, the issue of training for carers is being examined in the context of the development of the National Carers Strategy.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

347 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will respond to the campaign of associations (details supplied) for a full disregard of spouse’s incomes in the means test for carers or if she will abolish the means test altogether; and if she has held discussions with the Minister for Finance on this matter in the context of Budget 2009. [33291/08]

Supporting and recognising carers in our society is, and has been, a priority of the Government since 1997. Over that period, weekly payment rates to carers have greatly increased, qualifying conditions for carer's allowance have significantly eased, coverage of the scheme has been extended and new schemes such as carer's benefit and the respite care grant have been introduced and extended.

Carer's allowance, in line with other social assistance schemes, is means tested. This ensures scarce resources are directed at those in greatest need. The primary objective of the carer's allowance is to provide income support to low income carers. The carer's allowance means test is one of the more flexible tests in terms of the assessment of household incomes. It has been significantly eased over the years, most notably with regard to spouse's earnings.

Increases to the carer's allowance income disregard provided for in Budget 2008 mean that, since April, a single person can have an income of €332.50 per week and a couple can have an income of up to €665 per week and still qualify for the maximum rate of carer's allowance. The previous levels were €320 and €640 per week respectively.

This ensures that a couple can have an income in the region of €37,200 per year and still qualify for the maximum rate of carer's allowance as well as the associated free travel, household benefits package and the respite care grant. This increase surpasses the "Towards 2016" commitment to ensuring that those on average earnings can qualify for carer's allowance.

Budget 2007 provided for new arrangements whereby people can receive a maximum payment equivalent to a half rate carers allowance while receiving another social welfare payment, other than jobseeker's benefit or allowance. To date, over 13,000 carers have benefited from these arrangements.

From June 2005, the annual respite care grant was extended to all carers who are providing full time care to a person who needs such care, regardless of their income. A carer who is caring for two or more people is entitled to a full grant for each of the care recipients. The rate of the grant increased to €1,700 per year from June 2008.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

348 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if community welfare officers may approve an urgent needs or exceptional needs payment for purchase of a car or taxi plate; the circumstance under which this may be done; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33309/08]

Under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme (SWA), which is administered on behalf of the Department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive, an exceptional needs payment may be made to help meet an essential, once-off cost which the applicant is unable to meet out of his/her own resources.

The principal consideration in making a single payment of SWA to address a particular need is that the need to be met must be ‘exceptional'. Payments should arise only under abnormal conditions and should not become a regular or standard practice. Thus, an exceptional needs payment should be a single payment to meet an unforeseen and/or special need which cannot be met from a client's basic income.

Eligible people would normally be in receipt of a social welfare or HSE payment. There is no automatic entitlement to this payment. Each application is determined by the Executive based on the particular circumstances of the case, taking account of the nature and extent of the need.

The expense incurred in purchasing a car or taxi plate is not considered appropriate to the exceptional needs payment provisions of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.

Social Insurance.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

349 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs further to her announcement some time ago that farmers’ wives working in partnership with their spouses can qualify for a non-means-tested pension as a result of the applicants’ claiming partnership status retrospectively, the position with regard to spouses of other self-employed individuals such as shopkeepers and publicans who would have worked full-time in the business and held no employment outside the business, in respect of claiming retrospection to a share of the PRSI paid by their spouses, provided they could meet similar requirements to those of farmers spouses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33311/08]

Spouses working for self-employed contributors are specifically excepted from social insurance contributions. However, spouses who are actively engaged in a commercial partnership, including the operation of a farm, as opposed to simply being the joint owners of a property, are treated as individual self-employed contributors and are thus liable to social insurance contributions.

On foot of a Programme for Government commitment an information leaflet, ‘Working with your spouse: how it affects your social welfare contributions and entitlements', has been developed between the Department of Social & Family Affairs and the Revenue Commissioners to set out the social welfare and tax implications of families co-working in a shared business. It was published on the 25th of June, 2008.

The leaflet clarifies that spouses who operate in a commercial partnership may be brought into the social insurance system, subject to certain criteria. In this way, both spouses incur a liability to pay self-employed PRSI and build up entitlement towards a contributory state pension and other Social Welfare benefits. Application for benefits would take place in the usual way, following any approval of an application for commercial partnership status and the payment of any resulting PRSI liabilities.

The Department of Social and Family Affairs and the Revenue Commissioners use the following factors to decide if a partnership normally exists:

there is a written partnership agreement (a written agreement is not required by law, however);

each partner writes cheques on the business accounts in their own right; there is a joint business account;

it is apparent to those doing business with the partnership that a partnership exists;

business accounts and activities are in joint names of the partners;

each partner makes a significant contribution to the running of the business;

the business is owned jointly by the partnership;

the profits and losses of the partnership are shared by each partner; the business stationery reflects the existence of a partnership.

An applicant should meet some of these general criteria if they are claiming to be in a partnership with their spouse. If they cannot do this, they will be deemed not to be in a business partnership. The leaflet, which is not specifically targeted to any group of self-employed workers, may be of interest to self-employed workers and their spouses generally. Persons interested in applying for partnership status should firstly study a copy of the leaflet, available from the Information Section of the Department or at www.welfare.ie , which sets out the application procedure in detail.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Michael Ring

Question:

350 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo is entitled to child dependent allowance on their jobseeker’s allowance. [33321/08]

The person concerned is in receipt of a jobseeker's benefit payment since 16 June 2008 at the weekly rate of €197.80. Details of his partner's income are required in order to determine if an increase is payable in respect of a qualified child. He has been requested to provide this information, but has failed to do so. When the information is received, a decision will be made 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.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

351 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs her carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in her Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33341/08]

The website of the Government's climate change awareness campaign, www.change.ie, provides a carbon calculator which enables everyone to work out their own carbon footprint. The Department has estimated that the carbon emissions relating to air travel in the course of my ministerial functions amounted to 489.52 kg in the year to 30 September 2008. This will be fully offset under the Government's carbon offsetting scheme for official travel. There is no equivalent figure for the previous year, as I did not take up the post until 6 May 2008.

The carbon footprint for use of the Ministerial car from 6 May 2008 to 30 September 2008 is estimated at 6.09 tonnes.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Jack Wall

Question:

352 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a rent subsidy has been stopped for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33367/08]

Rent supplement is administered on behalf of the Department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive (HSE), as part of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.

The Executive has advised that payment of rent supplement has not been stopped and is being paid directly to the landlord at the request of the person concerned.

Richard Bruton

Question:

353 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she has reviewed the mortgage interest supplement scheme payable by the community welfare officer to ascertain if it is adequately designed to meet the threat of people losing their jobs in a situation where they may suffer from negative equity; and if she has reviewed the rule which requires the complete withdrawal of the mortgage supplement if a person takes up full-time employment, which may serve to trap people in a situation of dependency. [33391/08]

The supplementary welfare allowance scheme (SWA) provides for a supplement to be paid in respect of mortgage interest to any person in the State whose means are insufficient to meet their needs.

The purpose of the mortgage interest supplement is to provide short-term income support to eligible people who are unable to meet their mortgage interest repayments in respect of a house which is their sole place of residence. The supplement assists with the interest portion of the mortgage repayments only.

Mortgage interest supplement is normally calculated to ensure that a person, after the payment of mortgage interest, has an income equal to the rate of SWA appropriate to their family circumstances, less a minimum contribution, currently € 13, which recipients are required to pay from their own resources. Many recipients pay more than €13 because they are required, subject to certain income disregards, to contribute any additional assessable means that they have, over and above the appropriate SWA rate, towards their accommodation costs.

Since June 2007, where a person has additional income in excess of the standard weekly rate of supplementary welfare allowance, the first €75 of such additional income together with 25% of any additional income above €75 is disregarded for means assessment purposes. ‘Additional income' is the amount of income in excess of the SWA rate, applicable to household circumstances and includes income derived from part-time employment or self- employment (under 30 hours per week), any employment or training scheme (e.g. CE or FÁS course), family income supplement and maintenance payments in excess of €95.23.

Arrangements are in place to allow a person to participate in approved employment or t raining schemes or engage in full-time employment and retain entitlement to mortgage interest supplement on a tapered basis for up to 4 years in certain circumstances.

Overall, I am satisfied that the current mortgage interest supplement scheme provides an adequate short-term "safety net" within the overall social welfare system to ensure that people do not suffer hardship due to loss of employment. Nonetheless I intend to keep the scheme under review to ensure that the schemes meet the objective of catering for those who require assistance on a short-term basis.

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

354 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will review the case of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath. [33426/08]

Rent supplement is administered on behalf of the Department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive (HSE), as part of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.

The Executive has advised that the person concerned had been in receipt of rent supplement until 13 September 2008. Payment of the supplement ceased as the person concerned is in full-time education and is not in receipt of a back to education allowance. If the person concerned is not satisfied with the decision of the Executive, it is open to her to lodge an appeal against the decision.

People in full-time education are normally excluded from receipt of rent supplement under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme. However, people participating in approved courses who qualify for back to education allowance, receive a standard weekly rate of payment equivalent to the maximum rate of their previous social welfare payment. They may also qualify for rent supplement, subject to the standard qualifying conditions of the rent supplement scheme.

Social Welfare Appeals.

P. J. Sheehan

Question:

355 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when an appeal for a carer’s allowance by a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be processed and a decision notified to the applicant; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33493/08]

The claim for Carer's Allowance by the person concerned was refused by a Deciding Officer on the 13 November 2007, as in the opinion of the Chief Medical Adviser, the care recipient was not so invalided or disabled as to need full-time care and attention. Following the submission of further medical evidence, the Chief Medical Adviser confirmed his original opinion.

An appeal was opened in the case on 14 May 2008 and I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that this appeal has been referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made.

The Social Welfare Appeals Office is an office of the Department that is independently responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Social Welfare Benefits.

John McGuinness

Question:

356 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if full non-contributory or contributory State pension will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; if they are entitled to benefit from their late spouses contributions. [33634/08]

The person concerned is in receipt of an EU Pro-Rata Widow's Contributory Pension since 26th July 1991. She is currently being paid €23.20 per week, plus a living alone of €7.70 and fuel allowance of €18.

There is no record of an application for non-contributory pension having been received in respect of the person concerned.

I have arranged for an application form to issue to the person concerned. On receipt of the completed form, an assessment of her entitlement to a non-contributory pension will be undertaken.

Social Insurance.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

357 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the revenue that would be raised by abolishing the ceiling on PRSI in 2009. [33637/08]

Current estimates indicate that the abolition of the PRSI ceiling for ordinary employees would yield some €334 million in additional contribution income in a full year.

Social Welfare Appeals.

Michael Ring

Question:

358 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when an illness benefit appeal for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be finalised. [33657/08]

Payment of Illness Benefit to the person concerned was discontinued from 14th March 2008 following an examination by a Medical Assessor of the Department who expressed the opinion that she was capable of work. She appealed this decision on 19th March 2008 and, in the context of this appeal, her case was reviewed by a second Medical Assessor on 19th May 2008 who also expressed the opinion she was capable of work.

I am informed by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that, in the light of this second medical opinion, she was afforded an opportunity of setting out the complete and up to date grounds of her appeal and to furnish any further medical evidence she wished to submit. Her reply, along with further medical evidence from her GP, was sent to the Chief Medical Advisor, who expressed the opinion that this evidence would not affect the previous findings by the Medical Assessors.

In accordance with the statutory requirements, the Department asked for the documentation in the case and the Deciding Officer's comments on the grounds of the appeal.

These were returned to the Social Welfare Appeals Office and the case has now been referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made.

Departmental Records.

Pat Breen

Question:

359 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she proposes changes to the way clients are advised when laptops are stolen from her Department containing clients’ confidential details; when she expects encryption software to be installed on all laptops; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33696/08]

It is the Department's policy to work closely with the Data Protection Commissioner in relation to its response to any incident where laptops are stolen which contain confidential client information. In the most recent incident involving the contents of a missing laptop from the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General, the Department wrote to all those whose personal details were contained on the laptop. A dedicated freephone helpline was also put in place to deal with any issues the customers affected might have. The Commissioner welcomed the manner in which the Department addressed the issue and stated publicly that he considered that this approach represented ‘best practice and a truly first rate response in the circumstances'.

Every effort is being taken to avoid loss of equipment and the Department is continuing to enhance its protection of personal data. The Department's policy is that sensitive data should not be stored on laptops. However, in the event that there is no alternative to local storage, all sensitive data must be appropriately secured. All new laptops are issued with encryption software. The Department is currently arranging a recall of its current stock of laptops to install encryption software. This process is expected to be completed by the end of December 2008.

Pension Provisions.

Denis Naughten

Question:

360 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason the income disregard of €200 per week under the State pension, non-contributory does not apply to self-employment; her plans to review this policy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33721/08]

In 2006, a wide range of important reforms were announced for non-contributory pensioners, including self employed pensioners, in conjunction with the introduction of the State pension (non- contributory). The new pension replaced a range of non-contributory payments for persons aged 66 and over including the old age pension.

All these schemes currently featured a common means disregard of €7.60 per week, which had not increased since the 1970s. This general disregard was increased to €20 with effect from September 2006 and was subsequently increased to €30 with effect from January 2007. Approximately, 34,000 pensioners who were in receipt of a reduced rate of payment gained from these changes, including many self employed pensioners. Persons in receipt of the reduced personal rates of pensions gained by up to €22.50 per week with additional gains for persons with qualified adults.

In addition, from September 2006, a specific additional earnings disregard of €100 per week (now €200 per week) was also introduced where the pensioner is in employment i.e. working for an employer. This disregard is intended to facilitate non-contributory pensioners who wish to continue working, or to re-enter the workforce. This disregard does not apply to income from any other sources. Income from sources other than employment, including self employed income was covered by the enhanced general means disregard of €30 per week referred to above.

Departmental Staff.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

361 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of staff employed by her Department in each social welfare office at the end of September 2007; the number of these engaged in front-line services; the corresponding numbers at the end of September 2008; the number of people signing on at the end of September 2007; the number signing on at the end of September 2008; and her plans to increase staffing levels to cope with the significant extra demand on services. [33788/08]

The Department delivers a frontline service through a network of 59 Local Offices and 65 Branch Offices countrywide. Local Offices are staffed by civil servants whereas the Branch Offices operate under a contract for service. The staffing levels at Branch Offices are a matter for individual Branch Managers. All decisions on claims are made in Local Offices.

The total number of staff assigned to Local Offices at end of September 2008 was 1,343 as compared with 1,280 in September 2007 and all of these staff are engaged in front-line services. Details of staff assigned to individual offices are set out in the attached tabular statement.

In 5 of the offices the numbers shown for September 2008 are lower than those applying in 2007. This is for a number of reasons including the point in time at which the staff numbers were determined, the loss of the PPS allocation function to a centralised location and staff vacancies at September 2008.

The Department's Management Services Unit, using a formal work measurement method, monitors staffing requirements across the Department including Local Offices. Determinations of staffing requirements undertaken on an office by office basis, was carried out over the period mid 2006 to mid 2008.

In addition to this process, because the increased number of claims for jobseeker payments the Department undertook a review of staffing levels in Local Offices in May and June of this year. This resulted in the assignment of an additional 31 staff to some 15 Local Offices. A further such review currently is being undertaken.

A number of other measures have been taken to deal with the increased workload, including extending the contracts of some temporary staff and the allocation of additional resources for overtime.

At the end of September 2007 the Live Register stood at 160,451 and at the end of September 2008 it was 240,217.

Staffing at Social Welfare Local Offices

Local Office

Posts Sept 2007

Posts Sept 2008

Achill

4.00

4.00

Apollo House

14.10

12.60

Arklow

13.00

12.50

Athlone

18.90

22.70

Ballina

22.73

23.40

Ballyfermot

19.60

23.63

Ballymun

13.00

13.60

Bantry

10.0

8.50

Belmullet

10.00

10.00

Bishop Square

29.30

31.30

Blanchardstown

29.75

30.95

Bray

19.23

19.83

Buncrana

19.96

19.56

Cahirciveen

9.10

9.10

Carlow

18.73

20.13

Carrigaline

9.80

Carrick-on-Shannon

12.00

12.00

Castlebar

11.00

11.00

Cavan

15.80

20.40

Clifden

7.00

7.00

Clondalkin

30.20

30.10

Clonmel

19.40

18.90

Cobh

4.60

4.20

Coolock

25.80

28.70

Cork

# see note 86.95

84.40

Donegal

16.00

15.80

Drogheda

26.10

30.33

Dun Laoghaire

27.10

23.10

Dundalk

35.55

35.58

Dunfanaghy

9.50

10.50

Dungloe

14.00

14.00

Ennis

28.00

30.60

Finglas

20.90

23.30

Galway

54.80

56.10

Kilbarrack

22.10

21.45

Kilkenny

25.30

27.30

Letterkenny

22.40

21.40

Limerick

50.00

52.00

Listowel

14.80

14.80

Longford

19.30

19.80

Loughrea

* see note below

3.00

Mallow

9.50

8.70

Manorhamilton

5.00

5.00

Mullingar

19.10

20.10

Navan

20.50

24.90

Navan Road

25.50

27.10

Newbridge

31.10

35.10

Newcastle West

16.00

16.00

Nth Cumberland St.

43.80

47.30

Nutgrove

19.60

17.70

Sligo

19.50

19.50

Tallaght

35.70

40.35

Thomas Street

20.60

20.56

Thurles

17.50

17.50

Tralee

32.19

34.56

Tullamore

14.80

17.60

Waterford

50.81

52.34

Westport

8.60

8.60

Wexford

37.90

42.63

*The office in Loughrea operated as a Branch Office until 2 November 2007 when it was replaced by departmentally staffed local office.

#In June 2008 the Department opened a Local Office in Carrigaline. Until then the work associated with this area was done by staff in Cork Local Office.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

362 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Defence his carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in his Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33333/08]

It has not been possible in the time available to compile all the necessary information requested by the Deputy. While most of the information is available at this time, it is not possible to calculate my carbon footprint without the full information. The information will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Cork Docklands Development Forum.

Bernard Allen

Question:

363 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the Cork docklands forum report will be published in view of the fact that it was submitted to Government in June 2008 and was due to be published by the end of September 2008. [33366/08]

Deirdre Clune

Question:

365 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will publish the report from the Cork docklands development forum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33280/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 363 and 365 together.

The Report of the Cork Docklands Development Forum was considered by Government in July 2008. The Government agreed to establish an inter-Departmental group, chaired by my Department, to develop a response to the Report. This group will report to Government shortly, at which time the publication of the Report will be decided upon, there was no deadline for its publication by end-September.

Water Charges.

James Bannon

Question:

364 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to reform water charges on farmers including the introduction of a special livestock rate to support investment and structural reforms in agriculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33740/08]

Water charges apply to the farming sector in the same way as such charges apply to any business. Local authorities are required to recover the cost of providing water services from the users of these services, with the exception of households using the services for domestic purposes. The Government's water pricing policy provides for full cost recovery without profit, with charges based on actual metered consumption. Metering incentivises all non-domestic users, including farmers, to manage and conserve their use of water. That is an essential element in implementation of the polluter pays principle required by the Water Framework Directive.

In relation to a livestock rate of water charge, the requirement for non-domestic consumers to pay for water services applies regardless of the use to which the water is put. Public water supply schemes provide only treated water to consumers. It would not be practicable or appropriate to supply a lower quality of water to farm customers.

Question No. 365 answered with Question No. 363.

Emergency Services.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

366 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the 3% across the board cuts in public services are applicable to the emergency and fire services; and the way in which front line emergency and fire services will be affected by the 3% budget cuts. [33283/08]

My Department directed all local authorities, in line with Government policy on Public Sector pay costs, to implement a 3% reduction in payroll costs for 2009. Local Authorities have a range of measures at their disposal for deployment at local level to meet this requirement, and will take account of their responsibilities and obligations in regards to the delivery of front line services.

Badger Snaring.

Mary White

Question:

367 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of licenses to snare badgers that have been issued since 1997 per annum and by area. [33284/08]

My responsibilities under the Wildlife Acts relate to the conservation of populations of certain protected species including the badger. Badgers may not be hunted, injured or wilfully interfered with or their breeding place destroyed. However, the legislation enables me, as Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government, to issue a licence to a person to capture and humanely kill a protected wild animal for specified scientific or other purposes.

Since 2004, 30 licences have been issued annually to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food — one for each District Veterinary Office (DVO). There is one DVO per county, with the exception of County Cork, which has 3, and Counties Tipperary and Wicklow, which have 2 DVOs each.

Prior to 2004, licences were issued for each individual epidemiological investigation rather than by area. The distribution by county of these earlier licences is not available.

The licences permit taking of badgers for the purpose of carrying out necessary research into bovine tuberculosis in cattle and badgers. The badger has been identified as an important reservoir of Mycobacterium bovis, the bacterium that causes bovine tuberculosis (TB).

Licences issued in this regard are subject to strict conditions and must comply with the Part 3(d) of Wildlife Act 1976 (Approved Traps, Snares and Nets) Regulations 2003 which stipulates that a "stopped body restraint" must be used when capturing badgers.

A schedule of the number of licenses issued in the period 1997-2008 to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food is given in the following table.

Year

1997

1998

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

Number of Licenses issued

423

361

503

591

477

810

383

30

30

30

30

30

Community Development.

Niall Collins

Question:

368 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the fastest developing areas in County Limerick; if he will develop a plan or initiative for these areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33313/08]

It is a matter for each planning authority, under the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, to prepare development plans and local area plans that set out an overall strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of their area, and which are consistent with national and regional policies and objectives. The making, amending or revoking of development plans is a reserved function of the elected members of the planning authority for the area, in this case Limerick County Council.

The Developing Areas Initiative, for which my Department has lead responsibility, is focused on supporting work at central and local government levels to secure better co-ordination and timely delivery of key infrastructure and services in fast growing developing areas in parallel with housing development. The initial focus is on strategic locations which are experiencing significant development pressures within the National Spatial Strategy gateways and hubs, including in the Limerick/Shannon Gateway. Detailed analysis on the issues is being undertaken by my Department.

Housing Aid for the Elderly.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

369 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of local authorities that have written to his Department requesting further funds for the delivery of the housing adaption grant for people with a disability scheme, the mobility aids housing grant scheme and the housing aid for older people scheme; the local authorities which have applied; the responses his Department has made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33319/08]

In May 2008 my Department made a combined capital allocation of €71.4 million available to local authorities for the operation of the Housing Adaptation Grant schemes for Older People and People with a Disability in private houses in 2008. Individual allocations were notified to local authorities based on their estimated requirements as notified to my Department on expenditure trends in recent years. The high level of publicity surrounding the revised grant schemes since their launch in November 2007 has led to an increased level of activity being experienced by local authorities this year.

Requests have been received from a number of local authorities for supplementary allocations in respect of the Disabled Persons and Essential Repairs Grant Schemes and the Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability Schemes. In response to the particularly high levels of activity under the revised schemes experienced in 2008 by certain local authorities, my Department recently made supplementary Exchequer allocations totalling €3.6 million towards the operation of these schemes this year. This information is set out in the following table.

The issue of a further round of supplementary allocations to other local authorities will be considered in the event of further funding becoming available. My Department has re-emphasised to local authorities the importance of prioritisation in assessing grant applications given the level of activity being experienced nationally.

Initial Allocation 2008 (Exchequer +L.A. Contribution)

Request for Supplementary Allocation

Supplementary Allocation 2008 (Exchequer)

Carlow County Council

1,191,450

Y

Cavan County Council

1,150,890

Y

300,000

Clare County Council

1,308,060

Y

500,000

Cork County Council Nth

1,962,090

Y

Cork County Council Sth

2,545,140

Y

Cork County Council West

1,008,930

Y

Donegal County Council

4,248,660

Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council

1,896,180

Y

350,000

Fingal County Council

1,576,770

Galway County Council

1,820,130

Y

300,000

Kerry County Council

2,590,770

Y

Kildare County Council

1,642,680

Kilkenny County Council

816,270

Y

Laois County Council

1,678,000

Y

Leitrim County Council

1,571,700

Limerick County Council

1,551,420

Y

Longford County Council

638,820

Y

Louth County Council

1,815,060

Y

Mayo County Council

2,484,300

Y

350,000

Meath County Council

2,418,390

Y

Monaghan County Council

1,911,390

Y

250,000

North Tipperary County Council

1,571,700

Y

300,000

Offaly County Council

1,292,910

Roscommon County Council

1,678,170

Y

350,000

Sligo County Council

491,790

Y

300,000

South Dublin County Council

3,990,090

Y

South Tipperary County Council

1,343,550

Y

Waterford County Council

1,500,000

Y

Westmeath County Council

1,460,160

Y

Wexford County Council

2,043,210

Y

300,000

Wicklow County Council

1,079,910

Y

Cork City Council

1,855,620

Y

Dublin City Council

12,639,510

Galway City Council

1,049,490

Y

300,000

Limerick City Council

714,870

Y

Waterford City Council

451,230

Y

Sligo Borough Council

415,740

TOTAL

71,405,050

3,600,000

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

370 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in his Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33336/08]

The website of the Government's climate change awareness campaign, www.change.ie, provides a carbon calculator which enables people to work out their own carbon footprint. Using this tool, it is estimated that the carbon emissions from air travel undertaken in the course of my ministerial functions amounted to 7.87 tonnes in the year to 30 June 2008. This amount is accounted for predominately by air travel to UN Conferences in Bali and New York.

There is no equivalent figure for the previous year as I did not take up my Ministerial position until 14 June 2007.

The Department of Justice, Equality & Law Reform, which has responsibility for the Ministerial transport fleet, is providing statistics on road mileage to my Department for the period to 30 June 2008 and, once obtained, the revised carbon footprint for my combined road and air travel will be forwarded to the Deputy.

Using the same tool, it has been calculated that the carbon footprint arising from the functions of the Ministers of State at my Department is: Minister of State Finneran (Housing, Urban Renewal and Developing Areas) — 2.61 tonnes. This is based on mileage figures provided in respect of the period 13 May 2008 to 30 June 2008. Minister of State Kitt (Environment) — 4.78 tonnes. This is based on mileage figures provided in respect of the period 13 May 2008 to 31 August 2008.

Neither Minister of State has undertaken any official air travel since taking up their respective posts.

The Department of Health and Children will provide a response in respect of Minister of State Hoctor as her functions (Minister of State with responsibility for Older People) are shared with that Department.

In line with the Programme for Government, the Government Carbon Offsetting Scheme is now in place for all official air travel. All air travel mentioned above is subject to the Scheme.

Local Authority Funding.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

371 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount in development contribution levies he is forecasting for each individual local authority to receive as income in 2008; the figures for 2006 and 2007 for each local authority’s income from development contribution levies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33348/08]

Section 48 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 provides that planning authorities may levy development contributions in respect of public infrastructure and facilities provided by, or on behalf of, the local authority that benefit development in the area. Development contribution schemes are drawn up by each planning authority and approved by the elected members following a public consultation process.

My Department has no role in forecasting the annual development contributions income across local authorities. As Minister, my role is to provide the necessary statutory and policy framework within which individual development contribution schemes are adopted by each local authority.

Details of individual development contribution schemes are available directly from each planning authority. Each planning authority is also required to include details of contributions received and contributions owing to it, together with information on how the contributions have been expended, in the statutory annual report of the authority.

My Department's Annual Planning Statistics for 2006, which gives an unaudited breakdown of Development Contribution income for Local Authorities, are available on my Department's website, www.environ.ie. The 2007 Annual Planning Statistics are currently being finalised and I expect to make them available on my Department's website within two weeks.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

372 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the income from payments under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 that he is forecasting for each individual local authority to receive in 2008; the figures for 2006 and 2007 for each local authority’s income from these payments under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33349/08]

Detailed information on all financial contributions received under Part V in each local authority area since activity commenced in 2002 up to the end of March 2008 is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.

The amount of financial contributions received, in lieu of the transfer of land, to satisfy the Part V condition is dependent on the level and commencement of private sector residential development and, crucially, the nature of Part V agreements entered into. Accordingly, it is not possible to forecast the amount that each housing authority might accept in any given year.

Planning Issues.

Phil Hogan

Question:

373 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the outcome of his discussion with the European Commission in respect of the planning matters for Parliamentary Question No. 1394 of 24 September 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33355/08]

My Department issued Circular Letter SP 5/08 on 30 September 2008 to all County Managers, advising them of the outcome of the discussions with the European Commission regarding the implementation of local need policies in cases where there is an application to build a dwelling from which a full-time business will operate. Local authorities were asked to examine their development plans in light of the updated guidance provided in the circular to ensure their compatibility with Articles 43 and 56 of the EC Treaty which guarantee respectively the freedom of establishment (of business) and the free movement of capital.

A copy of the Circular Letter is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.

Local Authority Housing.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

374 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of local authority houses that have been purchased by the occupants and the number which are occupied by tenants who are paying rent for each local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33356/08]

Data in relation to local authority housing stock and information on the number of sales through tenant purchase is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie and in my Department's Housing Statistics Bulletins, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library.

Proposed Legislation.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

375 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the legal and policy issues that need to be surmounted before the Garda can be given the power to enter unoccupied homes to turn off house alarms; if he is engaging in discussions with the Garda on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32963/08]

My Department is currently examining options to strengthen legislation on noise pollution, with a view to meeting the Programme for Government commitment to publish comprehensive legislation on noise pollution as a matter of priority. A consultation paper was published on 27 August 2008 which outlines possible future measures which could be introduced to further alleviate noise nuisance. These include the possibility of extending improved powers of local authorities to An Garda Síochána as well as direct intervention in certain cases.

As part of this general public consultation process, my Department has written separately to the key stakeholders, including Government Departments, the Office of the Attorney General and An Garda Síochána, to ascertain their views on the issues raised in the consultation paper. Any views received will be followed up in more detailed discussions as appropriate. The deadline for submissions on the consultation paper is 31 October, 2008.

Water Quality.

Michael Noonan

Question:

376 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide funding to Limerick City Council for the replacement of common lead services citywide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33413/08]

An application was received last month from Limerick City Council for funding towards the cost of eliminating common lead services and my Department is examining this. Under Water Services legislation, the owner of a premises is responsible for ensuring that the internal water distribution system is sufficient to ensure that drinking water quality requirements are complied with.

In addition to replacing lead services, appropriate pH correction can be made at water treatments plants to ensure the water is not corrosive and to prevent lead from old pipes leaching into supply. The dosing of phosphates has also been recommended by the EPA to local authorities as a means of reducing plumbosolvency (ability of water to dissolve lead) as it has the further effect of sealing the lead within the connections.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

377 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding plans for the Oughterard sewerage scheme; his views on the need for an accelerated process in view of the water quality issues involved; and the information on the matter that has been made available to the community. [33420/08]

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

387 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding plans for the Oughterard sewerage scheme; his views on the need for an accelerated process in view of the water quality issues involved; and the information on the matter that has been made available to the community. [33630/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 377 and 387 together.

The Oughterard Sewerage Scheme is included for funding under my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009.

Galway County Council's amended Brief for the appointment of consultants for the design, procurement and construction of the scheme is being examined in my Department and is being dealt with as quickly as possible.

Local Authority Housing.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

378 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the cut-back of €20 million proposed to Dublin City Council’s social housing budget, in addition to the collapsed regeneration projects; the steps he will take to help the council address the increasing social housing list in the forthcoming years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33422/08]

Housing authorities have been provided with indicative budgets for their main social housing supply programmes for the period 2009 — 2011 to enable them to prepare their programmes and to set a ceiling on commitments to be entered into. The final housing allocations for 2009 will be issued in Spring, 2009. These allocations will encompass expenditure on programmes and sub-programmes not included in the indicative budgets and will also take into account expenditure outturn figures for 2008.

Despite the challenges that the current economic situation presents, the overriding objective of the Social Housing Investment Programme remains the achievement of continued progress towards meeting the targets set out in Towards 2016 and the National Development Plan 2007-2013. My Department will continue to explore all options for increasing the availability of social housing by optimising the use of available Exchequer supports and exploring alternative solutions for addressing housing needs.

Departmental Expenditure.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

379 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the costs expended to date in 2008 on the climate change awareness campaign; the anticipated costs for the remainder of 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33447/08]

The cost incurred to date of the Government's communications and awareness campaign on climate change, the Change Campaign, is €4,151,146 (exclusive of VAT), which will be funded from the Environment Fund. The anticipated costs for the remainder of the year will be of the order of €2,187,722 (exclusive of VAT).

The over-riding goal of the campaign is to drive significant behavioural change to reduce and avoid greenhouse gas emissions. The strategic starting point was to create a shared understanding of the challenge. This is being done through working with stakeholder groups, through TV, radio and outdoor advertising, the use of web-based tools, public events and intensive media engagement.

The Change Campaign differs from most other public information campaigns in that the approach includes a significant stakeholder engagement element. Much of the resources of this campaign are being used in working in partnership with stakeholders from various sectors to develop appropriate, relevant and useful tools and techniques to lower greenhouse gas emissions. A Carbon Management Tool for organizations, being developed as part of the campaign, is expected to be launched in the Spring.

The campaign website, www.change.ie, is an important vehicle for providing information to the public and the campaign encourages people to play their full part in contributing towards Ireland's response to the global challenge of climate change. Since I launched a user-friendly carbon calculator as a development of the website on 5 May 2008, almost 63,000 people have calculated their carbon count number.

Given the scale of the campaign and the importance of the issue, comprehensive evaluation and monitoring systems have been put in place to track the effectiveness of the campaign in delivering on its objectives.

Local Government Expenditure.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

380 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has conducted a value for money audit of the tap tips and water preservation campaign; the outcome of that audit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33448/08]

I understand that the Tap Tips campaign is part of a water conservation strategy for the Greater Dublin Area in respect of which Dublin City Council is acting as lead local authority. Apart from limited part-funding provided by my Department for the initial year of the campaign, 2005, it is being funded by the local authorities themselves. Accordingly, any value for money audit would be a matter for those authorities in the first instance. Local authority expenditure generally is subject to audit by the Local Government Audit Service.

National Monuments.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

381 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the work carried out by his Department and the National Roads Authority to ensure the ongoing protection of the national monument at Rath Lugh, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33461/08]

On 7 March 2008, in accordance with the provisions of Section 8 of the National Monuments Act 1930 (as amended), I placed a preservation order on the national monument known as Rath Lugh in the townland of Lismullin, County Meath.

To assess the stability of the esker on which the monument is located, I commissioned a report from a firm of independent consultants with relevant expertise in this matter. The report recommended that a number of precautionary measures be put in place to ensure that the esker is not undermined during the nearby road construction works or in the longer term.

On 14 August 2008, the National Roads Authority informed my Department that the construction of a crib wall on the esker had been completed. The purpose of this wall is to secure the stability of the slope of the esker on which the national monument is located during the construction works and in the longer term when the motorway is in operation. This approach was confirmed as an appropriate solution by the independent consultants.

The relevant reports are available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.

Furthermore, I have arranged for regular inspections to be carried out by my Department to monitor and assess the condition of the national monument at Rath Lugh. The aim of the inspections is to monitor any impacts on the monument and to assess any impacts that may be caused by the works on the motorway.

The lands on which the monument is located are owned by Coillte, the semi-State forestry body. My Department's National Monuments Service has been in contact with Coillte regarding the protection of the monument and has received Coillte's full co-operation in this matter. My Department will, in addition, be meeting with Coillte later this month to discuss the ongoing protection of the monument. I am satisfied that appropriate arrangements are in place to monitor the ongoing protection of the national monument.

Natural Heritage Areas.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

382 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the proposal to designate lands at the Liffey Valley as a natural heritage area; when the lands concerned were proposed; the steps taken in respect of these lands to protect habitats and species; if the lands are confined to lands covered by the special area amenity order or if other lands are included outside of the SAAO; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33462/08]

The Liffey Valley is one of a large number of sites throughout the country that have been proposed for designation as Natural Heritage Areas.

The area of the site is 165 hectares and it is located along the River Liffey, running from Leixlip in County Kildare to Chapelizod in Dublin. It is currently protected by its inclusion in the Local Authority Development Plans covering the area — in this case, the Local Authorities of Dublin City, Fingal, South Dublin, and Kildare.

The lands were originally proposed as a Natural Heritage Area in 1995, and this was communicated to the relevant local authorities. The lands are currently protected by their inclusion as a proposed Natural Heritage Area in the Development Plans of Dublin City Council, Fingal County Council, South Dublin County Council and Kildare County Council.

I am arranging to have the area of the proposed Natural Heritage Area compared to that of the Special Area Amenity Order and will be in touch with the Deputy further in this regard.

Water Quality.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

383 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps being taken at Department level to bring about improved infrastructure in respect of drinking water supplies here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33464/08]

€4.7 billion has been provided for my Department's Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the National Development Plan 2007 — 2013, an increase of 27% on the previous NDP.

The water supply schemes approved for funding under the Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009, (which is available in the Oireachtas Library) are derived from assessments of needs undertaken by local authorities, at my Department's request, as an input to the overall strategy for meeting water supply requirements. Among the criteria local authorities are required to take into account in preparing their needs assessments are compliance with national and EU drinking water treatment requirements and relevant reports produced by the EPA in relation to drinking water standards. Annual block grant allocations by my Department to local authorities under the devolved Rural Water Programme are informed by prioritised work programmes submitted by county councils.

Earlier this year, in conjunction with publication of its report "The Provision and Quality of Drinking Water in Ireland: A Report of the Years 2006-2007", the EPA listed 339 public water supplies where detailed profiling was required to ensure consumers had a reliable supply of a consistently satisfactory standard. Every major upgrading scheme required has been approved for funding under the Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009. I have also allocated special funding to local authorities for smaller scale upgrading works to schemes included in the EPA list.

99% of tests of public water supplies are clear of lead, as required under drinking water regulations. However, the EPA can issue such directions to a local authority as are necessary to prevent or remove any health risk. Failure to comply with such a direction is an indictable offence and subject to heavy penalties.

The Drinking Water (No. 2) Regulations, 2007, greatly strengthened the enforcement provisions in relation to drinking water standards. The Regulations provide for the supervision of local authority drinking water supplies by the EPA, and I have provided substantial additional funding and staffing resources to the EPA to increase its monitoring and enforcement capacity in relation to water standards generally.

Energy Resources.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

384 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the percentage of lights in the Custom House that are energy efficient; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33465/08]

Earlier this year the OPW, who have responsibility for maintenance work in the Custom House, conducted a comprehensive survey of all the light fittings in the building. The results show that there are 2,368 individual light fittings in the building installed with a total of 5,426 lamps. 93.4% of these lamps are energy efficient.

Environmental Policy.

Denis Naughten

Question:

385 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status of his review of the Nitrates Directive; his plans for consultation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33527/08]

The Nitrates Directive and Ireland's Nitrates Action Programme are given legal effect by the European Communities (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations 2006 and 2007. These Regulations provide for a review, by the EPA, of progress made in implementing the Regulations. The Agency is required to submit a report to me by 31 December 2008 with the results of the review and with recommendations as to such additional measures, if any, as appear to be necessary to reduce and prevent water pollution from agricultural sources.

In preparing its report the Agency is required to consult with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, the co-ordinating local authority in each river basin district and other such persons as it considers appropriate.

In accordance with the Regulations, and following consultation with the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and with other interested parties, I will prepare and publish a new Nitrates Action Programme by 30 June 2009. Detailed provisions with regard to public consultation on the Action Programme are set out in the Regulations.

Planning Issues.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

386 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the 2007 annual planning statistics will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33599/08]

The 2007 Annual Planning Statistics are currently being finalised and I expect to make them available on my Department's website www.environ.ie within two weeks.

Question No. 387 answered with Question No. 377.

Waste Management.

Martin Ferris

Question:

388 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that planning permission for a waste treatment plant has been applied for at Tara; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33648/08]

No application for planning permission for a waste treatment plant at Tara has been brought to my attention. I understand that a number of applications have been made to Meath County Council for waste permits for the use of recycled material on road construction operations along the route of the M3 motorway. These are a matter solely for the local authority concerned.

Turbary Rights.

Enda Kenny

Question:

389 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the conditions under which turf may be cut in 2009; if traditional type machines referred to as sausage machines are banned from all types of bog raised or low; the types of machinery that will be allowed; the conditions relating to same in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33653/08]

Turf cutting may continue as normal on the vast majority of bogs in 2009.

A small number of bogs are protected because they are nature conservation sites of European importance under the EU Habitats Directive and as such have been nominated as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs).

For 32 raised bog SACs, which were nominated for designation in 1999, turf cutting is due to come to an end at the close of the current season, following the expiry of a 10-year period of grace. This period was allowed to give turf cutters the opportunity to find alternative sources of fuel. A list of the bogs concerned accompanies this reply.

Since 1999, the use of "sausage" machines is not permitted in SACs or Natural Heritage Areas, either on blanket or raised bogs. "Hoppers", or other hand-held machines, used for cutting for purely domestic use, are permitted generally, but not, of course, where all cutting is prohibited. Cutting may continue as usual on undesignated bogs.

SAC 1999 — Raised Bog

No#

Year

Site Code

Site Name

County

Hectares of SAC

% of Raised Bog Habitat

Ha of Raised Bog Habitat

%

1

1997

000006

Killyconny Bog (Cloghbally)

Cavan/Meath

191.22

46

87.96

2

1997

000231

Barroughter Bog

Galway

174.02

53

92.23

3

1997

000248

Cloonmoylan Bog

Galway

554.42

71

393.64

4

1997

000285

Kilsallagh Bog

Galway

279.73

68

190.22

5

1997

000296

Lisnageeragh Bog and Ballinstack Turlough

Galway

455.49

62

282.40

6

1997

000301

Lough Lurgeen Bog/ Glenamaddy Turlough

Galway

1,162.11

51

592.68

7

1997

000326

Shankill West Bog

Galway

136.39

52

70.92

8

1997

000382

Sheheree (Ardagh) Bog

Kerry

17.07

38

6.49

9

1997

000391

Ballynafagh Bog

Kildare

156.46

43

67.28

10

1997

000440

Lough Ree

Ros/LD/WM

14,371.24

3

431.14

11

1997

000457

Derrynabrock Bog

Mayo/Roscommon

Subsumed into SAC 2298

12

1997

000497

Flughany Bog

Mayo/Sligo

231.09

47

108.61

13

1997

000547

Tawnaghbeg Bog

Mayo

Subsumed into SAC 2298

14

1997

000566

All Saints Bog and Esker

Offaly

369.68

52

192.23

15

1997

000572

Clara Bog

Offaly

836.54

44

368.08

16

1997

000575

Ferbane Bog

Offaly

153.08

76

116.34

17

1997

000580

Mongan Bog

Offaly

207.83

61

126.78

18

1997

000581

Moyclare Bog

Offaly

129.86

62

80.51

19

1997

000582

Raheenmore Bog

Offaly

210.01

65

136.51

20

1997

000585

Sharavogue Bog

Offaly

223.43

61

136.29

21

1997

000592

Bellanagare Bog

Roscommon

1,207.59

61

736.63

22

1997

000597

Carrowbehy/Caher Bog

Roscommon

343.83

54

185.67

23

1997

000600

Cloonchambers Bog

Roscommon

348.20

45

156.69

24

1997

000604

Derrinea Bog

Roscommon

86.18

70

60.33

25

1997

000614

Cloonshanville Bog

Roscommon

225.76

84

189.64

26

1997

000641

Ballyduff/Clonfinane Bog

Tipperary

269.56

69

186.00

27

1997

000647

Kilcarren-Firville Bog

Tipperary

676.67

55

372.17

28

1997

000679

Garriskil Bog

Westmeath

324.81

52

168.90

29

1997

001242

Carrownagappul Bog

Galway

487.53

65

316.89

30

1997

001818

Lough Forbes Complex

Longford/Ros

1,337.08

21

280.79

31

1997

002110

Corliskea/Trien/Cloonfelliv Bog

Galway/Ros

725.21

61

442.38

32

1999

000297

Lough Corrib

Galway/Mayo

25,253.37

2

505.07

1999 Raised Bog SAC

Sub-total

51,145.46

13.85

7,081.45

Local Authority Housing.

Terence Flanagan

Question:

390 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will respond to a query (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33658/08]

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 at www.lgmsb.ie.

Planning Issues.

Dan Neville

Question:

391 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will make funding available for the implementation of the recommendations as outlined in the Rathkeale area task force, County Limerick document; and if he will fund the activities of the committee which has been established to implement the recommendations. [33702/08]

I understand that Limerick County Council's Rathkeale Local Area Plan supported the establishment of the Rathkeale Forum involving all the agencies and groups with an interest in the development of the town and that the Forum will have a key role in the implementation and monitoring of the objectives and policies of the Local Area Plan.

No specific request for funding for the Forum has been received by my Department.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Dan Neville

Question:

392 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on Askeaton sewerage scheme, Askeaton, County Limerick; and if he will confirm that he has received the preliminary reports. [33703/08]

The combined Athea, Askeaton, Foynes, Glin and Shanagolden Sewerage Scheme is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009 as a scheme to start construction in 2009.

Limerick County Council's Preliminary Report for the scheme was received in my Department last month and is being examined.

Planning Issues.

James Bannon

Question:

393 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to reform planning permission for on-farm micro generation units; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33733/08]

In 2007, my Department reviewed the Planning Regulations with regard to exempted developments and carried out research into the planning implications of exempting renewable energy technologies in the industrial, business and agricultural sectors, with a view to providing specific exemptions wherever possible to encourage uptake of such technologies. On foot of this work, a consultation paper outlining proposed exemptions was issued in October 2007. A total of 51 submissions were received and carefully considered.

In July 2008, the Oireachtas approved the Planning and Development Regulations 2008, providing planning exemptions for specified renewable technologies in the industrial, business and agricultural sectors. A summary of the classes of micro-renewable technology exemptions applicable to agricultural sites is attached. These exemptions should reduce the demands placed on the planning system, while facilitating a greater penetration of these renewable technologies, thereby providing cleaner and cheaper energy and helping our wider efforts to tackle climate change, improve security of energy supply, and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.

The introduction of equivalent exemptions for anaerobic digesters, building-mounted wind turbines and hydro-power was considered, but it was decided that these technologies should remain subject to the provisions of the planning system. However, I intend to keep this matter under review.

Classes of Exemptions for Renewable Technology (Agricultural)

Combined Heat and Power

Gross floor space of up to 300 m2

Max height of 8 m, and max length of 40 m

200 m from nearest inhabited dwelling

10 m from nearest public road

Up to 2 flues, max height 20 m and max diameter 1 m

Noise levels must be less than 43 db(A) at site boundary

Only 1 per site.

Wind Turbines

No exemption for building-mounted turbines

Max height up to 20 m

Rotor diameter up to 8 m

Ground clearance of at least 3 m

Must be turbine height plus 5 m from nearest party boundary and non-electrical overhead cables

Must be turbine height plus 20 m from 38kV lines or own height plus 30 m from lines of 110kV or more

Consent of IAA required if within 5 km of an airfield, etc

Noise levels must be less than 43 db(A) at site boundary

Only 1 per site, and not within an ACA

No logos, and non-reflective finish

Solar panels (Thermal Collector and Photo-Voltaic (PV))

Solar thermal collector panels cannot be placed on walls

Total aperture area up to 50 m2 or 50% of total roof area, whichever is lesser

Max distance of 50 cm from plane of a pitched roof to panel

Max distance of 2 m from plane of a flat roof to panel

Must be at least 50 cm from edge of pitched roof, or 2 m from edge of flat roof

All associated equipment hidden within roof

Must be to the side or rear of the building

Aperture area of wall mounted or free-standing arrays up to 25 m2

Ground source and air source heat pumps

Ground level alteration up to 1 m above or below adjoining ground

Total area of heat pumps up to 10 m2

Must be at least 50 cm from edge of wall or roof

Noise levels must be less than 43 db(A) at site boundary

Must be distance from building foundations as recommended in SEI guidelines

Biomass

Gross floor space up to 20 m2

Capacity of fuel storage tank above ground up to 75 m3

Max height of boiler house or fuel tank up to 3 m

Up to 2 flues, max height up to 20 m and max diameter 1 m

Must be at least 100 m from nearest inhabited dwelling

Must be at least 10 m from nearest public road

Fuel from animal waste only on farms, and no wood containing dangerous substances anywhere

Alan Shatter

Question:

394 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 439 of 22 April 2008, his views on whether the thrust of the question (details supplied) has been misunderstood; if he will have research undertaken to identify the local authorities who have been failing in this regard with a view to monitoring their performance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33789/08]

As outlined in the reply to Questions Nos. 438 and 439 of 22 April 2008, it is the responsibility of planning authorities to monitor the degree to which those carrying out approved developments meet their obligations to comply with the terms of the planning permission granted and to enforce such terms where necessary. I also refer to the comprehensive reply to Question No. 1423 of 24 September 2008.

Decisions on appeals by An Bord Pleanála are a matter of public record. Such decisions detail instances where the Board is of the view that planning authorities have not had regard to planning guidelines and other requirements relevant to proper planning and sustainable development. In addition, as part of its annual report, the Board produces analysis of its decision-making under various themes, including one-off rural housing. Accordingly, I have no plans to undertake specific research on this matter.

Housing Policy.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

395 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when specific time lines will be announced for the actions outlined in The Way Home, a strategy to address adult homelessness in Ireland 2008-2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33802/08]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

396 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the funding that will be allocated in respect of the strategy outlined in The Way Home, aimed at addressing adult homelessness here 2008-2013; and if this will detail the index linking of the revenues involved to ensure its value over the full four years of the strategy. [33803/08]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

397 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the commitments received from parties required to guarantee co-operation and ensure delivery of the actions identified in The Way Home, a strategy to address adult homelessness here 2008-2013. [33804/08]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

398 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has involved the various non-governmental organisations working with the homeless in drawing up the implementation plan for the delivery of The Way Home, a strategy to address adult homelessness in Ireland 2008-2013, and in assigning actions to specific Departments or agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33805/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 395 to 398, inclusive, together.

A new Government strategy on homelessness, The Way Home: A Strategy to Address Adult Homelessness in Ireland 2008 — 2013, was published in August 2008. The strategy builds on the strong progress made under previous strategies and sets out a vision to address adult homelessness over the next five years.

The strategy recognises that homelessness involves a complex interplay between personal, economic, social and structural issues and reflects the Government's commitment to addressing homelessness in a comprehensive and coordinated manner. It was developed under the aegis of a Cross Departmental Team, which comprises representatives from the relevant Government Departments and agencies, ensuring a whole of Government approach is adopted. In addition, a National Homeless Consultative Committee, which includes representatives from homeless service providers, both statutory and voluntary, was established in April 2007 and was consulted during the Strategy's preparation.

The strategy sets outs a range of actions under each of its six strategic aims, together with implementation targets for the most significant actions. These will form the basis of a more detailed implementation plan being developed under the aegis of the Cross Departmental Team on Homelessness, which will assign lead roles and more detailed time lines. Work on the implementation plan is underway and submissions have been requested from relevant non-governmental organisations through their representatives on the National Homeless Consultative Committee. I expect the Implementation Plan to be finalised by end 2008.

Since 2000, over €620 million has been provided for homeless services, between accommodation-related costs met through my Department and the local authorities, and care services funded through the Health Service Executive. In 2008 alone, almost €92 million in current funding is being provided. Further significant capital funding has also been provided for the development of new facilities.

Future funding of actions under the strategy will be a matter for consideration in the context of the annual Estimates process and it will also be essential to ensure that optimum efficiency and value for money are secured from funding provided. In that context, the Homeless Agency in Dublin has been undertaking a comprehensive review of services and a value for money review; when completed shortly, these will play an important role in informing the development of the strategy's implementation plan and consideration of associated funding issues.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

399 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the monies granted in each year for the past decade for each of the local authorities to address the housing needs of the homeless, including specific allocations in terms of social housing for the long-term homeless. [33806/08]

The information requested relating to recoupment to local authorities for current funding for accommodation-related costs for homeless services is being compiled and will be forwarded as soon as possible.

In relation to capital funding, through my Department's main social housing investment programme and the Capital Assistance Scheme for voluntary and co-operative housing bodies, accommodation is provided to meet a variety of needs, including those of homeless persons. The level of funding earmarked for homeless purposes varies between local authority areas, having regard to the overall level of need, the schemes of letting priorities of individual authorities and the level of activity by the voluntary and co-operative housing sector in meeting other special housing needs, including for the elderly and persons with a disability.

Genetically Modified Organisms.

Michael Creed

Question:

400 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will be participating in the working group established under the French Presidency of the Environment Council dealing with the issues of the GM within the European Union; the input he will make in respect of this committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33834/08]

My Department is participating in the Ad Hoc Working Group on GMOs established under the French Presidency of the Environment Council. Two meetings of the group have taken place to date. I am supportive of the initiative taken by France to promote better practice in the assessment, and control at the level of the individual member state, of GM crops intended for cultivation in the European Union.

Energy Resources.

Martin Ferris

Question:

401 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will make a statement on the use of intelligent lighting as an energy saving device; and his views on whether it is incumbent on all public bodies to use them. [33361/08]

Intelligent lighting systems offer very significant potential for energy efficiency savings in buildings. Many new public buildings are including advanced lighting systems that encompass high-efficiency fittings and advanced controls. Retrofit solutions are also available and can sometimes offer attractive returns on investment, but are not always economically justified. I understand that it has been the practice of the Office of Public Works for many years to install such systems in its new buildings where economically practicable.

Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) has commenced its "Bright Ideas" national roadshow on lighting solutions for business, including public sector organisations. This event will be visiting 5 venues countrywide over the months of October and November. The roadshow is providing an educational and networking forum for the entire lighting supply chain, practical actionable advice on how to use lighting in an effective and efficient manner and case studies of local organisations who have worked with SEI to reduce their lighting energy consumption and manage their energy costs. SEI has also published the first three guides in a series of nine sector-specific, high-efficiency lighting guides for business.

Through these and other programmes, SEI is highlighting the energy savings and other benefits available from new advanced lighting systems. This complements the accelerated capital allowances for energy efficient equipment introduced in the Finance Act 2008 to encourage take-up by industry of more energy efficient equipment. Efficient lighting and lighting controls are included among the classes of eligible technology under the Accelerated Capital Allowances Scheme.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

402 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in his Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33331/08]

The website of the Government's climate change awareness campaign, www.change.ie, provides a carbon calculator that enables everyone to work out their own carbon footprint. Using this tool, my Department has estimated that the CO2 emissions arising in the course of my ministerial functions for the period 14 June 2007 to 14 June 2008 amounted to 11.38 tonnes. Of this, 5.92 tonnes related to air travel, which is fully offset under the Government’s carbon offsetting scheme for official travel. There is no equivalent figure for the previous year, as I did not take up the post until 14 June 2007.

My Department has calculated the carbon emissions arising from the ministerial functions of the Minister of State (with special responsibility for the Information Society and Natural Resources) for the period 12 May to 30 September 2008 to be 0.358 tonnes of which 0.221 tonnes arose from air travel and is therefore offset.

Electricity Generation.

Enda Kenny

Question:

403 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to an EirGrid publication in 2004, based on extensive computer modelling of the Irish electricity generation plant mix, entitled Impact of Wind Power Generation in Ireland on the Operation of Conventional Plant and the Economic Implications (details supplied); the estimates of the annual cost to the consumer here, in terms of fuel requirement, fuel cost, amount and value of emissions; the decline in the efficiency of fossil fuel plant for each of the next ten years; the action he has taken or plans to take to optimise the efficiency of the electricity generating sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33451/08]

I am aware of the analysis published by EirGrid in 2007, which provides a framework to assess cost implications of wind powered generation under a range of scenarios. EirGrid advise that the framework supersedes the study they published in 2004. It is also the case that since the 2007 framework was published fossil fuel prices have risen exponentially and the Single Wholesale Electricity Market has been established. EirGrid, as Ireland's systems operator, is committed to supporting the delivery of renewable energy and to meeting the challenges for the electricity system and the most effective and efficient operation of the overall generation portfolio. The Generation portfolio is changing with the prospective development of more flexible plant which EirGrid advocates and supports. EirGrid also considers that the Single Electricity Market design supports the addition of more flexible plant, which is reflected in the increased level of interest in such plant.

It is the responsibility of EirGrid to optimise the efficiency of the generation portfolio through, inter alia, the dispatch daily arrangements for all generating plants. I welcome the fact that EirGrid as Systems and Market Operator is committed to delivering increased penetration of renewable energy. As fossil fuel and carbon prices continue to rise, renewable energy technologies come into their own. My Department has requested ESRI to analyse the economic and financial costs and potential impact on electricity prices of Ireland's ambitious renewable energy targets. That work will be completed by year end. The Commission for Energy Regulation is also undertaking jointly with the Northern Ireland Regulator analysis of the impact of wind generation in the Single Electricity Market. This analysis will be completed shortly.

Enda Kenny

Question:

404 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the specification of the proposed east-west electricity interconnector; the cost of this project; the way it will be financed; the payback period of same; the services it will provide to the electricity grid; the estimated value of these services; if funding has been obtained from outside the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33452/08]

The East-West Interconnector is a 500MW High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) interconnector, which will link the electricity grids of Ireland and Britain. This project is of strategic national importance to Ireland and its delivery to schedule by 2012 is a key Government priority. The interconnector will enhance the reliability and security of electricity supply, promote competition in the market and facilitate the integration of renewables.

EirGrid has been entrusted with the development and ownership of this interconnector by the Government. Working closely with the CER and with my Department, Eirgrid is progressing the project to schedule. The Electricity Regulation (Amendment) (EirGrid) Act 2008 provides the necessary legal basis for EirGrid to construct, own and operate an interconnector.

I am advised that EirGrid expects the contract for design and construction of the interconnector to be completed by late 2008, when the successful bidder will be announced. EirGrid has secured Woodland in County Meath as the connection point for the interconnector on the Irish transmission system and Deeside in Wales on the UK side. Furthermore, EirGrid has undertaken a marine survey to determine the most suitable route for the undersea cable. Late 2011 is the target for the completion of works and 2012 is the target for the completion of commissioning and testing and the start of commercial operations. The project remains on track to meet these target completion dates, subject to the outcome of the planning processes.

Financing options for this project are being pursued by EirGrid with the objective of achieving the most cost-effective and efficient financial package.

The project is being funded in two phases. Phase 1 will cover the initial funding requirements and Phase 2 will cover the majority of the construction element. EirGrid has gone to the market for proposals in relation to Phase 1. Once the Phase 1 funding package is in place, EirGrid will proceed to seek proposals in relation to Phase 2. This phase will cover the bulk of funding requirements. EirGrid has also initiated discussions with the European Investment Bank, with a view to their participation in Phase 2.

Alternative Energy Projects.

Enda Kenny

Question:

405 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the all island grid study that suggests Ireland could receive a possible 42% of it’s electricity from renewable energy sources, mostly wind, by 2020 and that the study outlines that this would require some six gigawatts of wind turbines connected to the grid by then; his plan to raise his renewable energy target; his estimate of the amount and value of fossil fuels that will be saved in each of the next ten years; his estimate of the amount and value of emissions avoided in each of the next ten years; the amount by which fossil fuel generating plant capacity will be reduced in each of the next ten years; the amount of applications for wind turbines at present through the various Gate schemes; if he envisages a scheme whereby large amounts of wind turbines may be operational before their planned targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33453/08]

The All-Island Grid Study concluded that it is feasible to generate 42% of electricity on the island of Ireland from renewable energy sources by 2020 subject to a number of factors including the pace and scale of grid development and reinforcement and the development of more flexible conventional operational capacity on the system.

The study shows that we have the potential to do more than reach the Government target of 33% renewables which I consider to be the base rather than the limit of our ambitions. Achieving existing targets and aiming higher again is my objective, subject to ensuring Ireland's overall competitiveness and system security.

This is a complex challenge requiring major investment in our electricity transmission network and very significant investment from the conventional generation and renewables sector itself. We are putting in place the necessary strategies to deliver on our national and EU targets to ensure we can fully meet the energy and climate change challenges set out by successive European Councils.

The economic analysis module of the grid study was carried out by Ecofys. The modelling work in the study takes a snapshot in time in that it finds that, by 2020, in meeting a 42% renewable generation share, the net effect allows for a 25% reduction in carbon emissions and a 28% reduction in gas imports for electricity generation over the Grid Study's reference case, which is a 16% share of renewable generation capacity.

The All-island Grid Study itself recommends that further work be carried out to build on the analysis. Electricity market modelling work is currently being carried out by the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) jointly with the Northern Ireland Regulator. I have also requested the Economic and Social Research Institute to assess the financial and economic costs and benefits of the renewable energy targets, which will further inform strategies to achieve those targets.

The latest figures on wind capacity from EirGrid show that there are 850MW of wind connected to the Irish system, 1,700MW with signed or open connection offers and over 7,500MW of capacity still in the queue.

The matter of connections to the electricity grid is one for the CER working with EirGrid. CER recently completed a public consultation on the current ‘Gate 3' process under which CER proposes that 3,000MW of new renewable energy projects are brought forward into the connection process. Industry players have made a range of submissions under the consultation process and these are currently being considered by CER.

Electricity Sector.

Simon Coveney

Question:

406 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the estimated cost of commissioning independent consultants and a senior independent chair, to carry out a technical and economic analysis of the transmission assets transfer to Eirgrid; when it will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33485/08]

I refer the Deputy to my statement of 13 March on the future of Ireland's electricity sector. In that statement I affirmed the Government's decision in the Energy Policy White Paper and the Programme for Government, to transfer the ownership of the electricity transmission assets from ESB to EirGrid.

The unbundling of the transmission assets involves the resolution of complex technical, financial and operational issues as well as the introduction of legislation. The process will take us beyond the original target date of the end of 2008, as all the parties concerned are aware.

In the context, not least, of wide-ranging challenging priorities for ESB and EirGrid, I have proposed that we commission an independent analysis of the transmission transfer, including costs, benefits and regulatory impact assessment, set in the context also of EU developments and the all island single electricity market.

I have consistently underlined the need for transparent and inclusive engagement with all relevant stakeholders in the process of implementing Government policy in relation to the electricity transmission assets.

Input to the process of independent analysis will accordingly be invited from the direct key stakeholders. These are the management and unions of ESB and EirGrid, the ESB Employee Share Ownership Trust, as well as the Commission for Energy Regulation and the Department of Finance.

All the direct stakeholders have pivotal roles to play in the process of engagement and analysis and in achieving outcomes that are good for EirGrid and ESB, which are satisfactory for all parties concerned, and which are in the best interests of the economy and consumers.

It is not possible at this stage to provide an estimate of the likely cost of the independent analysis process. I look forward to getting this collective process of engagement and analysis under way following my appointment of the senior independent chair, which I intend to finalise shortly. It is my aim that this process would be completed during 2009.

Telecommunications Services.

Simon Coveney

Question:

407 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when the roll-out of broadband will take place at an exchange (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33486/08]

I have no function in the matter of the enabling for broadband purposes, of exchanges owned by private companies or the quality of lines for provision of broadband services. It is anticipated that the facilitation of greater competition via the introduction of broadband from different technology platforms should encourage the more rapid enabling of exchanges for broadband.

Alternative Energy Projects.

Simon Coveney

Question:

408 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the status of the legislation governing the use of domestic solar photovoltaic electricity generation here; if he will introduce a new solar photovoltaic scheme; if so, when; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33487/08]

The Commission for Energy Regulation/ESB Networks have recently amended the rules associated with small scale generators. It is now the case that generators of less than 6kW on single phase electricity and 11kW on three phase electricity supply cables can now connect their generators without prior authorisation. Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) will shortly publish a guide to connecting renewable and CHP electricity generators to the electricity network including advice for micro-generators.

In April of this year I announced a new support programme to underpin 50 trials of small scale wind and Photovoltaic electricity generators operating domestic and non-domestic applications. The trials will benchmark the performance and reliability of the technologies and gauge their market impact potential. The programme, which is administered by SEI, will be receiving applications shortly, following a consultation with stakeholders. The programme will also inform consideration of a feed-in-tariff mechanism for electricity produced through micro-generation.

SEI's Low Carbon Housing programme is providing incentives to developers planning to include Photovoltaic and other autogeneration technologies in prospective developments. This programme supersedes the "House of Tomorrow" programme and is designed to support and promote low energy consumption and low carbon dioxide emissions in new dwellings, to a level of performance beyond the envisaged revisions to the Building Regulations in 2010. Subject to overall budgetary considerations, grant support of up to €15,000 per unit based on 40% of eligible expenditure is available for whole house solutions incorporating energy efficiency design and renewable energy technology features.

The revised Building Regulations Part L now require the mandatory inclusion of renewable energy systems in a domestic building. The Building Energy Rating (BER) certification system also allows homeowners to improve their BER by incorporating PV systems into the building.

In February 2007 exemptions from the requirement to apply for planning permission for certain categories of micro-generation technologies including Solar Photovoltaic were introduced under Statutory Instrument. S.I. No. 83 of 2007 "Planning and Development Regulations 2007". Following further consultation last year, SI 235 of 2008 "Planning and Development Regulations 2008", provides for further planning exemptions for additional classes of renewable energy installations including large Solar Photovoltaic installations.

Telecommunications Services.

James Bannon

Question:

409 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the authorisation for the countrywide roll-out of broadband; the reason for the delay in explaining the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33680/08]

Sean Sherlock

Question:

415 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason for the ongoing delay in the appointment of a contractor for the national broadband scheme; the date for commencement of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33859/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 409 and 415 together.

The Invitation to Tender (ITT) for the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) issued on 25 August 2008. Various complex legal and commercial matters raised by the service providers towards the end of the competitive dialogue process were addressed prior to the issuing of the ITT. The closing date for receipt of tenders was 6 October 2008 and two bids were received from eircom Ltd and Hutchinson 3G Ireland Ltd. The NBS contract is scheduled to be signed early next month, with rollout of the services due to begin as soon as possible thereafter, subject to agreement with the chosen service provider.

All requests for a broadband service in the areas to be addressed by the NBS will be met.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

410 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if an application for an Eircom broadband connection has been received from a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; when it was received; and when the person can expect that full broadband service will be made available to enable him to carry out his business efficiently. [33687/08]

Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. I have no role in processing applications for broadband connections owned by private companies and therefore no applications are made to me.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

411 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress made on the provision of broadband at Burtonport, County Donegal since April 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33691/08]

The provision of broadband services is, in the first instance, a matter for the private sector. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. Broadband services are available from competing service providers over multiple platforms such as DSL (telephone lines), cable, fixed wireless, and increasingly mobile. I understand that the Burtonport area already has broadband on offer from a number of service providers.

The role of the Government is to formulate regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of high quality telecommunications services by competing private sector service providers.

The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard, my Department has undertaken initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These include providing grant-aid under the Group Broadband Scheme (GBS), investment in Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) and the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) which is designed to deliver broadband to areas where the market has failed to deliver the necessary investment. The NBS contract is scheduled to be signed early next month, with rollout of services due to begin as soon as possible thereafter, subject to agreement with the chosen service provider.

Regional Fisheries Boards.

Dara Calleary

Question:

412 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of salmon angling licences issued in each fishery board region in the years 2006, 2007 and to date in 2008; the number of these licences issued directly by each board; the number issued by agents of each of the boards; if the provisions of data protection legislation or related legislation apply to the issuing of such licences; and if there is a restriction on the boards sharing the information provided in each licence application with other interested parties. [33853/08]

Details of the number of salmon angling licences issued by the Regional Fisheries Boards can be found in the annual report of the Central Fisheries Board.

The annual reports for the years 2006 and 2007 were recently submitted to me for approval and I expect to lay the reports before both Houses of the Oireachtas shortly. The reports will thereafter be published by the Central Fisheries Board and will be also be available to download from the Board's website (http://www.cfb.ie/annual_report/index.htm). Details of angling licences issued during 2008 will be made available in the Board’s annual report for 2008. The question of whether licences are issued directly or via agents is a day to day matter for the Boards.

I have no function regarding the applicability of the Data Protection Acts 1998-2003 to salmon angling licence data collected or stored by the Regional Fisheries Boards.

Electricity Sector.

Dara Calleary

Question:

413 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the incentives the single electricity market can offer to attract new entrants to build technology, for example electricity storage, that would improve the efficiency of fossil fuel generating plants owned by other players; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33854/08]

The issue of incentives for new entrants to the Single Electricity Market (SEM) is a matter for the Statutory SEM Committee, which comprises the Commission for Energy Regulation, the Northern Ireland Authority for Utility Regulation and an independent member. I am supportive of measures which would improve the efficient use of all generating plants and meet the overall aim of providing a secure, clean and competitive electricity supply.

Dara Calleary

Question:

414 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the information available to him on available estimates of the amount and value of fuel and emissions that would be saved annually by fossil fuel generating plants here if these plants were able to operate at their design efficiency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33855/08]

The operational efficiency of fossil fuel generating plants is a day to day matter for each individual generator, operating in the wholesale electricity market. My Department does not have available to it estimates as to the amount and value of potential fuel and emissions savings in the scenario posited by the Deputy.

Question No. 415 answered with Question No. 409.

Tuberculosis Incidence.

Mary White

Question:

416 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if snares for badgers are still being used. [33285/08]

Mary White

Question:

417 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if snaring is being conducted during the badger lactating season; and if so, if it has a relation to a recent tuberculosis outbreak in the area in question. [33286/08]

Mary White

Question:

418 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of badgers killed per annum, and by area, since 1997; and the number of these that tested positive for tuberculosis. [33287/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 416 to 418, inclusive, together.

Capturing of badgers by my Department is carried out under licences granted by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NWPS) in areas of the country where serious outbreaks of TB have occurred and where an epidemiological investigation carried out by my Department's Veterinary Inspectorate has found that badgers are the likely source of the infection. Under the programme, capturing of badgers in new capture areas is not permitted during the lactating months of February and March.

The restraints used are not ‘snares' and are approved under Section 34 of the 1976 Wildlife Act. They are specifically designed for the purpose; they include a swivel and incorporate a ‘stop' to prevent tightening beyond a predetermined point. Setts are inspected before noon every day to ensure the welfare of badgers is not compromised. Research has shown that damage caused to badgers by the restraints used is negligible.

The number of badgers captured since 1997 is as follows:

Year

Number

1997

2,171

1998

2,474

1999

3,533

2000

4,727

2001

3,558

2002

6,115

2003

4,737

2004

3,000

2005

5,171

2006

5,589

2007

5,933

Approximately 50% of the badgers captured under the programme have been subjected to post mortem. Research undertaken by UCD on behalf of my Department has shown that, where detailed post mortem with culturing of tissues is undertaken, TB has been confirmed in approximately 48% of badgers.

A key element of the Department's overall TB eradication strategy is the development and implementation of a programme for the vaccination of badgers. Work to date in a controlled environment has shown positive results and a 3-year field trial of the orally delivered BCG vaccine is about to commence. However it will be some time before benefits of the vaccine will be seen and therefore it is envisaged that the current badger policy will be retained in the medium term.

Mary White

Question:

419 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the expenditure on the bovine tuberculosis eradication scheme in 2007 and to date in 2008. [33288/08]

Expenditure under the TB eradication programme, not including cost of salaries of Department staff, has been calculated at €43.3m in 2007. Expenditure to 30 September 2008 is estimated at €39.7m.

It is expected that final expenditure in 2008 will exceed that for 2007 due to a substantial increase in the cost of compensation linked to higher cattle prices, mainly dairy stock, and an increase in reactor numbers.

Fishing Industry.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

420 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the way the proposed €3 million support fund for unemployed crew members resulting from the whitefish decommissioning programme will be allocated; and the means by which such unemployed workers can access retraining and other supports from this fund or other funding. [33295/08]

The current funding available for decommissioning is provided to enable immediate decommissioning of vessels from the fleet so as to improve the economic viability of the remainder of the fleet. The general position in the Irish fishing industry in recent years is that there has been an overall shortage of crewmen. Accordingly, and as only a portion of the fleet is being decommissioned, it could be expected that many crew members on vessels which are decommissioning will be able to find alternative employment elsewhere in the industry.

All fishermen are eligible to undertake Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) training programmes including those serving on vessels that are decommissioning. In this regard, BIM and FÁS have agreed to co-operate to provide training for fishing vessel crew members that find themselves without a job when their fishing vessel is decommissioned. Both agencies will work closely together to provide retraining, up-skilling or diversification opportunities in the seafood industry or elsewhere in the economy as required.

Under the EU Seafood Development Operational Programme for Ireland (2007-2013), € 7.2M has been set aside for the sustainable development and improvement of the quality of life in fisheries areas and to maintain economic and social prosperity in these communities.

Foreshore Licences.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

421 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will take steps to grant a foreshore licence to a club (details supplied). [33306/08]

An application for a foreshore lease to facilitate construction of rock armour, infilling and construction of a pontoon at Rockhouse, Kilmacsimon, was received by my Department on 3 August 2007. The application was circulated to the Department's technical consultees in line with normal procedures. All of the Department's technical consultees have responded and have no objection to the proposed development subject to conditions.

The Valuation Office has been requested to provide a valuation in respect of the area to be leased and a response is awaited. Every effort is being made by my Department to expedite the matter.

Environmental Policy.

Michael Creed

Question:

422 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will review the restrictions on the ploughing of land between now and mid January 2009 due to the Nitrates Directive, in view of the additional energy costs involved in tillage at that time of year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33312/08]

The requirements in relation to ploughing are set out in the Nitrates Regulations introduced by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in 2006 (SI No. 378 of 2006). These Regulations require that:

When ploughing arable land between 1 July and 15 January green cover must be provided from a sown crop within six weeks.

Grassland ploughed between 1 July and 15 October must have green cover from a sown crop by 1 November.

Grassland must not be ploughed between 16 October and 30 November.

The overall objective of the Regulations is to protect water quality. Scientific evidence indicates that significant nutrient loss can occur when grassland or arable land is ploughed and where there is no crop planted shortly after ploughing to take up the nutrients that will be released when the buried organic matter breaks down. The provisions of the Regulations are designed to minimise such nutrient losses and do not allow for any flexibility on the designated restricted periods.

The contents of the Regulations, including those in relation to ploughing, were the subject of extensive consultation with stakeholders, including the farming bodies, and were finalised following a long period of negotiation with the EU Commission.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

423 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in his Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33329/08]

The website of the Government's climate change awareness campaign, www.change.ie, provides a carbon calculator which enables everyone to work out their own carbon footprint. Using this tool, my Department has estimated that the carbon emissions related to air travel arising in the course of my ministerial functions since May 2008 amounted to 3.4 tonnes, all of which will be fully offset under the Government’s carbon offsetting scheme for official travel. There is no equivalent figure for the previous year, as I did not take up the post until 7 May 2008.

Since May 2008, the Minister of State, Deputy Killeen's carbon footprint is 2.046 tonnes, related to air travel, which will be fully offset under the Government's carbon offsetting scheme for official travel.

The Minister of State, Deputy Sargent's carbon footprint for the year 1 October 2007 to 30 September 2008 relating to air travel amounted to 2.09 tonnes, all of which involved scheduled flights. The air travel carbon footprint will be fully offset under the Government's carbon offsetting scheme for official travel. In addition, Deputy Sargent personally purchased carbon credits to offset the carbon impact of his air travel prior to the Government offset scheme being introduced.

Harbours and Piers.

Pat Breen

Question:

424 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 120 of 22 November 2007, the position regarding the development of Doolin pier; if funding has been withdrawn for this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33343/08]

The pier at Doolin is the property of Clare County Council and responsibility for its repair and upkeep rests with the Local Authority in the first instance.

My Department does, however, co-fund maintenance and development works with various Local Authorities under the Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme.

In late 2007, my Department invited applications for funding under the 2008 programme. Clare County Council did make an application for funding in respect of Doolin but unfortunately this was unsuccessful due to the constraints of available funding and overall national priorities.

Any application by Clare County Council for funding for the above project in future years will be given due consideration based on overall Exchequer allocation and national priorities.

Grant Payments.

Phil Hogan

Question:

425 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a payment will be made under the farm improvement programme to a person (details supplied) in County Carlow. [33369/08]

The claim for payment lodged by the person named 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.

Veterinary Inspection Service.

Finian McGrath

Question:

426 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the competence of the role of the veterinary profession in the control of animal disease and the certification of livestock and livestock products. [33380/08]

The veterinary profession has my full confidence and support. The profession plays a pivotal role in the development of our agriculture and food sectors and its members expertise and commitment in the area of animal diseases has enabled our livestock sector to progress and improve and, by so doing, to provide a safe raw material for our developing food industry. With developments in the area of veterinary medicine and treatment techniques, considerable progress has been made in combating a range of animal diseases which otherwise would threaten the stable food supply we now take for granted.

While veterinary practice had traditionally concentrated on the management of livestock production diseases at farm level, the Department's veterinary inspectorate working as an integral part of my Department, has a far wider remit. It focuses on zoonotic diseases of public health significance, contingency planning for serious disease outbreaks and the protection of the animal feed and human food chains. In more recent years, food safety, trade and animal welfare have also become extremely important issues. Official Veterinarians now fulfil a pivotal role in carrying out inspection and certification functions at various stages in the food chain to verify both the standard of animals entering the chain and the standards of the processing operations. The inspectorate also plays a major role in international trade for example in determining trade rules at OIE and at bilateral levels and in reassuring foreign regulators and consumers of our high animal health standing through certification functions and otherwise.

Furthermore, the Veterinary Council of Ireland (the regulatory body of the veterinary profession) of which my Chief Veterinary Officer is a member, and the new Veterinary Practices Act 2005, polices the profession in Ireland to ensure the highest levels of professionalism and integrity are met.

Finian McGrath

Question:

427 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will support a matter (details supplied). [33381/08]

The purpose of the AHCS1 form is to permit testing veterinary practitioners to manually submit amendments to test details that have already been submitted electronically. These corrections generally relate to matters such as the sex, breed, colour, ID number of animals, as well as herd identifier, date and details of test results. The acceptance of submitted corrections on the AHCS 1 forms is at the discretion of the Superintending Veterinary Inspector (SVI) in my Department's local District Veterinary Office (DVO) and the use of AHCS1 forms is monitored as part of my Department's quality control system on the testing programme.

My Department is satisfied that this highly-visible and transparent process does not facilitate the certification of animals as being tested when they had not in fact been tested. Up to 30 September 2008, some 6,900 AHCS1 forms were submitted to DVOs this year by testing veterinary practitioners. This figure should be seen in the context of 329,715 herd test results recorded on AHCS in the corresponding period. As outlined in my reply to the Deputy of 24 September 2008 (Ref No. 30581/08), my Department has strong and effective quality control measures in place to minimize the risk of fraud and professional misconduct in relation to TB testing. If the Deputy has any evidence of illegal practices in relation to the carrying out of the TB test, perhaps he could provide this information to my Department and the matter will be fully investigated.

Departmental Programmes.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

428 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the budget for the school milk and school vegetables programme; the number of schools that benefit from the scheme; the way contracts are awarded for the provision of these foods to schools; and the conditions of the contract. [33404/08]

The EU school milk scheme provides financial assistance to dairies for supplying certain milk products to educational establishments. The aim of the scheme is to promote the consumption and the nutritional benefits of milk.

The scheme is co-funded by the EU and the Exchequer. In the school year 2007/08, the number of schools participating in the scheme was 1,356. The Exchequer contribution for that year was €325,000 and the EU funded amount was €600,000. Individual schools enter into a contract directly with a dairy to supply their pupils participating in the scheme with milk. The Department provides an aid to those dairies for supplying the milk at a subsidised rate. There is no contract between the Department and any of the participating schools in the scheme.

The National Food Dude Programme which is entirely exchequer funded has among its objectives the increased consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables among school children during school time and at home as well as a change in parental behaviour towards purchase and consumption of fresh fruit & vegetables. The National Roll out of the Food Dudes Programme commenced in April 2007 and between then and June 2008 some 784 schools (120,833 pupils) participated. In October 2008 a further 119 schools (13,460 pupils) joined the programme with a further 123 schools to join in November of this year. The budget for 2008 is €3.9m.

The programme consists of a cycle of four 4-day tasting periods with an awards system for continued consumption. It is administered by Bord Bia who have contracts awarded in accordance with Public Procurement rules for the provision and distribution of fruit and vegetables to schools; management of the programme in the schools; provision of rewards and video/DVD production and duplication. One of the terms of the contract is that they are renewable on an annual basis subject to availability of funding for the coming year. In addition, the contract for the supply of fruit and vegetable includes a detailed specification drawn up in consultation with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland.

Rural Environment Protection Scheme.

Denis Naughten

Question:

429 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the funding paid to date under the REP scheme four mixed grazing supplementary measure; his plans to review this measure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33460/08]

The mixed grazing supplementary measure is available to farmers joining REPS 4 and was approved by the European Commission on the basis of the environmental benefits accruing from following a mixed grazing regime.

Payments of €1.112m have been made in respect of REPS 4 contracts commencing in 2007 of which €9,000 relates to the mixed grazing supplementary measure.

Some 11,600 applications for REPS 4 with 2008 commencement dates were received in my Department by the closing date of 15 May, 2008. These are currently being processed and it is not possible to say what the cost of the mixed grazing supplementary measure in respect of 2008 will be at this stage.

Coastal Erosion.

Tom Sheahan

Question:

430 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the funding available from his Department for coastal erosion. [33590/08]

My Department is currently responsible for the administration of the Coastal Protection Programme.

The total budget for the 2008 Coastal Protection Programme is €3.037 million. The projects that are approved for funding under the 2008 Coastal Protection Programme were announced by my Department on 30 April 2008.

Grant Payments.

Martin Ferris

Question:

431 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the lowest and highest payment received in County Kerry under the single farm payment. [33626/08]

Payments under the Single Payment Scheme are governed by a number of factors: while payment entitlements were initially calculated by reference to scheme participation of individuals during one or more of the three reference years, farmers were subsequently free to trade entitlements, some farmers obtained additional entitlements from the National Reserve, others forfeited entitlements to the National Reserve because of non-usage, while others were awarded entitlements following the incorporation of the Dairy Premium and compensation granted to sugar beet growers following the EU Reform of the Sugar Sector. In respect of payments made under the 2007 Single Payment Scheme to County Kerry applicants, the highest amount paid was €170,173.65 while the lowest amount was paid €8.25.

Phil Hogan

Question:

432 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a single farm payment for 2007 will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33650/08]

An application under the 2007 Single Payment Scheme was received from the person named on 15 May 2007. As part of the control procedures under EU rules governing the Scheme, the application was selected for an on-farm inspection, during the course of which discrepancies were found in relation to seven of the land parcels declared by the person named. As a result of this discrepancy, the claimed area of 122.92 hectares was reduced to 87.37 hectares, in line with the EU rules governing the scheme. Where the total area found is not sufficient to support the number of entitlements held, appropriate penalties must be applied; in this case, while the found area was 87.37 hectares, the number of entitlements held by the person named is 114.91, therefore, the appropriate penalty was applied viz as the difference between the area declared and the area found is more than 20%, under EU Regulations, no payment is due.

A request to review the findings of the eligibility inspection was received from the person named on 21 July 2008. This review is currently being considered and the person named will be informed of the outcome shortly. If the person named is not satisfied with the outcome of the review, he then has the right to appeal the outcome of the review to the Agriculture Appeals Office.

Departmental Expenditure.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

433 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the way the 5% levy deducted from the single farm payment is spent; if the fund is used for the purpose for which it was originally proposed; the amount of revenue that has been collected since the introduction of the levy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33651/08]

Modulated funds of €225.5m are an integral part of the overall funding available for the 2007-2013 Rural Development Programme. The total funding for this programme amounts to €5.778bn from three sources: EU co-funding €2.114bn, Modulation €0.225bn, Exchequer €3.439bn. The Programme addresses three priorities, competitiveness, the environment and the wider rural economy, and encompasses the following main measures: REPS, Compensatory Allowances, Early Retirement, Installation Aid, Farm Modernisation. The funding provided for these schemes took full account of the amount available from modulation.

Farm Waste Management.

Michael Ring

Question:

434 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on extending the deadline for the farm waste management scheme in view of the difficulties being experienced by applicants in trying to get the work completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33656/08]

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. The European Commission has since reaffirmed that it expects Ireland to respect strictly this deadline.

Grant Payments.

Tom Sheahan

Question:

435 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason his Department is stalling payments to farmers under the area headage scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33674/08]

Payments under the 2008 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme commenced on 24 September, with payments issuing in respect of all applicants whose applications were clear for payment at that stage. Payments worth in excess of €203 million issued to over 82,000 farmers in the initial payment run. Payments continue to issue as further cases subsequently become clear on a daily basis; to date, payments worth almost €226 million have issued to over 91,000 farmers.

Aquaculture Development.

Tom Sheahan

Question:

436 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if there are investments proposed in the fish farming industry in the south Kerry area. [33675/08]

Bord Iascaigh Mhara and Údarás na Gaeltachta are the relevant agencies with responsibility for the development of aquaculture in Ireland. I am advised by BIM that indications of interest in investment proposals for fish farming projects have been received from seven applicants in the South Kerry area, with a proposed total investment value in the region of €1 million.

Tom Sheahan

Question:

437 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he envisages having the blockade on mussel seed harvesting in the Castlemaine Harbour area lifted in view of the fact that the harvesting time has commenced. [33676/08]

On Friday 3rd October a Statutory Instrument providing for the opening of the mussel seed fishery in Cromane permitting vessels to collect and relay mussel seed in the bay for the remainder of the current 2008 fishing season was signed. The fishery opened on Sunday 5th October 2008.

Farm Waste Management.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

438 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of farmers who applied for the farm waste management scheme; the number who were approved to proceed with work; the number who have completed the work and claimed todate; the number outstanding; and if he will provide the information in tabular form. [33704/08]

The information requested by the Deputy in relation to the Farm Waste Management Scheme is as follows:

Number

Summary Applications

48,580

Completed Applications

46,132

Approvals Issued to Commence Work (To Date)

42,350

Completed and Paid (To Date)

10,495

Grant Payments.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

439 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has raised the issue of extending the deadline for the farm waste management scheme in the EU; his views on extending the deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33705/08]

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. The European Commission has since reaffirmed that it expects Ireland to respect strictly this deadline.

Michael Creed

Question:

440 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork has not received their headage payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33811/08]

An application under the 2008 EU Single Payment Scheme and Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 22 April 2008. During processing of this application, an issue arose regarding the area claimed on one of the land parcels. The person named has been written to in relation to this matter and immediately a reply is received, the application will be processed further.

Rural Environment Protection Scheme.

Pat Breen

Question:

441 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of farmers in County Clare who are participants in the REP scheme over the past four years; the number of farmers who have had penalties incurred under each of the schemes during those years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33830/08]

The number of farmers participating in REPS in Co Clare at the end of each of the last 4 years and the number that had penalties applied in those years is as follows:

Year

Number of farmers in REPS in Co. Clare

Number of farmers inCo. Clare that had penalties applied in REPS 2

Number of farmers inCo Clare that had penalties applied in REPS 3

2004

1996

65

1

2005

2086

86

28

2006

2842

33

60

2007

2659

11

88

Genetically Modified Organisms.

Michael Creed

Question:

442 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the role he will have on the high level group established by President Barroso to help sort out the issues of GM within the EU and the way this initiative will help to clear the backlog of approvals for GM modified feeds within the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33835/08]

The high level group, also referred to as the ‘Sherpa Group', was established last May at the initiative of President Barroso. The purpose of the group is to allow a discussion among senior officials from each Member State, each official representing the overall policy of their government on GMOs. The discussion would cover such topics as current legislation, increased food/feed prices, WTO issues and consumer reaction.

The first meeting of the group, which was an exploratory meeting was held in Brussels last July and Ireland was represented by an official from the Irish Permanent Representation to the EU in Brussels. My Department will make available any information requested to assist these discussions.

Animal Diseases.

Mary White

Question:

443 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the report on the findings regarding the farm of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will be published. [33951/08]

Mary White

Question:

444 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason milk yield on the farm of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny increased by 50% when local industry was closed. [33952/08]

Mary White

Question:

445 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason for the intermittent growth on the farm of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny with periods of normal growth followed by periods of negative growth. [33953/08]

Mary White

Question:

446 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the amount spent to date on reports to try to establish the reason for low milk yields, stunted growth and ill thrift on the farm of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [33954/08]

Mary White

Question:

447 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if autopsies have been carried out on the farm of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if so, the results they revealed regarding the animals. [33955/08]

Mary White

Question:

448 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if there were significant off-farm factors contributing to the health of animals on the farm of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny following the most recent study undertaken in January 2007; and, if so, the cause for same. [33956/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 443 to 448, inclusive, together.

As the Deputy is aware, the farm in question is currently the subject of an investigation being carried out by the Centre for Veterinary Epidemiology and Risk Analysis (CVERA) at UCD. This comprehensive investigation, which is being undertaken to the highest scientific standards, was commissioned by my Department at an estimated cost of up to €0.5 million and is now nearing completion. When completed, the report will be peer reviewed and therefore it would not be appropriate for me to discuss individual aspects of the investigation, or to speculate on its outcome, in advance of the publication of the report.

Higher Education Grants.

John Perry

Question:

449 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will intercede and allow a student (details supplied) in County Sligo to receive a third level student grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33711/08]

The decision on eligibility for third level grants is a matter for the relevant assessing authority — i.e. the local authority or VEC. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department except, in exceptional cases, where, for example, advice or instruction regarding a particular clause in the relevant scheme is required. If an individual applicant considers that she/he has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant, or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, she/he may appeal, in the first instance, to the relevant local authority or VEC. Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by the relevant local authority or VEC, and remains of the view that the body has not interpreted the schemes correctly in his/her case, an appeal form outlining the position may be submitted by the applicant to my Department. Alternatively, as already indicated, the local authority or VEC may, itself, in exceptional circumstances, seek clarification on issues from my Department.

The Special Rate of Maintenance Grant referred to by the Deputy is available to students in receipt of the ordinary maintenance grant under each of my Department's four maintenance grant schemes. In order to qualify for the special rate of maintenance grant a candidate must meet a number of conditions, including the following:

1. An applicant must qualify for the ordinary maintenance grant.

2. Total reckonable income in the relevant tax year must not exceed the lower income limits as set out in the relevant Maintenance Grant Schemes and, where applicable, net of Child Dependent Increase payments paid by the Department of Social and Family Affairs.

3. As at the prescribed date — i.e. 31 December each year — the source of income must include one of the eligible long-term Social Welfare payments.

The prescribed income limit for the special rate of maintenance grant for the academic year 2007/2008 is €20,147. It is not proposed to depart from the existing arrangements for the determination of the eligibility threshold.

Higher Education Strategy.

Brian Hayes

Question:

450 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if the terms of reference for a new strategy for higher education have been agreed; the expected timeframe involved before an agreement is reached; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33303/08]

I will bring proposals to Government shortly in relation to the terms of reference and process to develop a new national strategy for higher education which will provide the vision and strategic direction for the future development of the higher education sector in contributing to Ireland's economic and social development in the 21st century. I would expect that the entire process to develop the strategy will take about 12-18 months.

Special Educational Needs.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

451 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Education and Science the avenues open to persons (details supplied) in County Cork; the action he proposes to take to ensure that the child is provided with appropriate full-time education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33314/08]

As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Needs Organisers (SENOs), for allocating teachers and special needs assistants to schools to support children with special educational needs and for identifying appropriate educational settings for individual children with special educational needs.

Officials in my Department have been in contact with the NCSE in relation to sourcing a school placement for this child. I understand that the local SENO is liaising with the local health authorities in this context.

Schools of Music.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

452 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the evaluation of the pilot programme of local music education in County Donegal and Dublin city; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33316/08]

Music Network has commissioned a consultancy in April 2008 to conduct an evaluation of the programmes. Methodologies include desk research, face-to-face meetings with key policy makers, consultation and focus group meetings with teachers, tutors, parents, students and service management.

The research and evaluation is ongoing and near completion.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Phil Hogan

Question:

453 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science his carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in his Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33334/08]

The website of the Government's climate change awareness campaign, www.change.ie, provides a carbon calculator which enables everyone to work out their own carbon footprint. Using this tool, my Department has estimated that the carbon emissions arising in the course of my ministerial functions amounted to 9.98 tonnes from my appointment as Minister to 30 September 2008. Of this .78 of a tonne related to air travel, which will be fully offset under the Government's offsetting scheme for official travel.

On the same basis, my Department has estimated that the carbon emissions of Minister of State, Sean Haughey, arising in the course of his ministerial functions amounted to 8.85 tonnes in the year to 30 September 2008. Of this 1.94 tonnes related to air travel, which will be fully offset under the Government's offsetting scheme for official travel.

Educational Disadvantage.

Joan Burton

Question:

454 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on whether addressing early childhood development is essential for tackling inequalities in education and that closing the Centre for Early Childhood Development and Education will negatively affect the potential educational development of young children here; the saving to the Exchequer by closing the CECDE; his proposals for the replacement of the functions of the CECDE; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33346/08]

Tackling inequalities in Education is a multi faceted problem which requires a multi-faceted approach. I do not consider that addressing early childhood development requirements is in itself sufficient to solve the problems of inequalities in Education. Internationally, it has been shown that successful enrichment programmes like the Perry Preschool programme in the US, foster long-term improvements in the home environment that carry over to the child long after the pre-school programme has ended. The influence of the home environment on the life chances of our children cannot be under-estimated. Our constitution recognises that the ‘primary and natural educator of the child is the Family' and in our society, the majority of pre-school children are cared for at home whether by parents or guardians, other relatives or paid childcare. Data, drawn from the Quarterly National Household Survey (QNHS) module on Childcare, shows that in almost 60% of families, parents or guardians of pre-school children are still the main carers during the normal working day. The supports my Government has provided for families include the Early Childcare Supplement and improved Maternity leave and Maternity benefit. My own Department has put a range of support measures in place, including the Home School Community Liaison scheme, in recognition of the importance of supporting parents with their child-rearing responsibilities.

In my decision to close the Centre for Early Childhood Development and Education, I took into account the successful fulfilment of the remit of the CECDE and the establishment of the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. This Office brings together policy makers from different Government Departments to ensure consistency in policy-making and policy implementation for children and is, I believe, better placed to deliver on the implementation of a National Quality Framework for Early Childhood Education than a separate agency. I certainly do not consider that the closure of the CECDE will adversely affect children's life chances.

The annual cost to the exchequer of funding the CECDE is in the region of €1 million.

As the CECDE had effectively delivered on its remit, the implementation phase of the National Quality Framework will be led by a central Government Department. It is hoped that up to two contract posts will be established to progress quality provision in Early Childhood Education.

Schools Building Projects.

Brian Hayes

Question:

455 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science further to his announcement on 29 September 2008 regarding new school projects, the number of those schools which were on his Department’s list, having obtained tenders and which were waiting for his final approval before going to construction that were part of his announcement of the new school building programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33350/08]

On 29th September this year I announced details of 25 major school building projects which are to proceed to tender and construction.

The school building projects which I announced will provide permanent primary school places for over 4,600 students in five new schools and 15 extended and modernised schools.

A further 3,600 students at post-primary level will benefit from one new school and four major extension and refurbishment projects.

This year, more than €586 million will be spent in the school building programme, with one-third of that invested 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. This is an unprecedented level of capital investment which reflects this Government's commitment to continuing the programme of sustained investment in primary and post-primary schools.

Twelve of the projects which I announced on 29th September were on the list of projects which had already obtained tenders and which was supplied to the Deputy in May of this year.

It is my intention to make a further announcement in the first quarter of 2009 on major primary and post-primary school projects to proceed to construction.

Pat Breen

Question:

456 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 1731 of 24 September 2008, the reason a school (details supplied) in County Clare has not been included in the recent announcement of school building projects; if the design tender process has commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33352/08]

The project referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning and 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.

Youthreach Programme.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

457 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science when the Youthreach special needs initiative pilot scheme will be extended across the country; if the existing Youthreach programme in Listowel is part of the pilot scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33360/08]

In 2007, my Department introduced the Special Education Needs Initiative (SENI) to address special educational needs and provide the necessary supports for learners in Youthreach centres. The SENI involves a general allocation model similar to that introduced in the primary sector in September 2005. Its purpose is:

To allow for a measured systematic development of professional practice in special education needs support in centres; and

To introduce the practices of profiling and assessment into each centre, development of individual learning plans for each student, establishment of a mentoring support system and engagement in inter-agency work as required for each student.

It was introduced to 25 groups of 25 learners across 20 Youthreach centres. The Youthreach centre in Listowel is not one of these centres.

The initiative has taken a whole centre approach and the needs of all learners are identified using a profiling model. It is team based and caters mainly for students with high incidence needs. It provides for the allocation of increased staffing hours to deal with the special needs and disabilities of all the students.

Additional training was provided to staff in the centres to enable the introduction, on a centre team basis, of a range of professional practices to support students with special educational needs/disabilities. This training followed on from the national introductory training programme introduced into all centres in 2006. In addition, the 20 centres have access to a password protected internet site containing guidelines, tailored training programmes and other materials.

During 2007, an evaluation was carried out on the SENI to determine its suitability and effectiveness for the learners. The findings of this evaluation were generally positive and found the SENI to be meeting the needs of learners.

Any consideration of the extension of the SENI will have to take account of the present and prospective economic and budgetary context and related financial constraints.

School Accommodation.

Joan Burton

Question:

458 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give the go ahead for construction to begin on an extension to a school (details supplied) in Dublin 15 as agreed with his Department in return for taking in extra pupils over the past three years and as confirmed by the schools planning section; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33399/08]

As the Deputy will be aware I recently announced details of 25 major school building projects which are to proceed to tender and construction.

The school in question is included on this list and officials form my Department will shortly be contacting the school about the next steps they should take.

Special Educational Needs.

John Deasy

Question:

459 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science if he is satisfied that children diagnosed with autism and other learning difficulties have accessibility to information on where to seek help; if, in conjunction with the Department of Health and Children, he will ensure that information is readily available; and if his attention has been drawn to the fact that parents are having difficulty knowing where to get help. [33403/08]

As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) for allocating resource teachers and special needs assistants to schools to support children with special needs.

SENOs are assigned responsibility for schools in a particular geographical area. The local SENO is a specific point of reference for parents who have children with special educational needs. They provide information and assist parents on issues in relation to the child's education. The NCSE's website — www.ncse.ie — provides further information about the work of the Council as well as the contact details for each SENO.

The recently established Office of the Minister for Disability and Mental Health has, as a key role, responsibility for the facilitation of the delivery of integrated health and education support services for children with special needs. Officials of this Office, along with my own Department, the Health Service Executive and the NCSE comprise a cross-sectoral group which meets regularly in relation to this issue.

School Management.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

460 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Education and Science the action that is being taken to change the restrictions being applied to running in schoolyards due to insurance liability. [33405/08]

In accordance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, it is the responsibility of individual school management authorities to have a safety statement in place in their schools. It is also a matter for school authorities to determine school policies, taking into account any health and safety risks to children running in the school yard.

It is my view that it is important for children to avail of the opportunity to exercise at school and that children should be able to run in the school yard unless there are very compelling local reasons for the school to prohibit such activity.

Physical Education Facilities.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

461 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Education and Science the results of the whole school evaluation of the physical education programme. [33406/08]

The Inspectorate conducts whole-school evaluations in primary and post-primary schools. During these evaluations, a range of subjects is examined, in addition to issues such as the quality of school management, school planning, teaching and learning, and supports for students. The evaluation of teaching and learning focuses on a range of subjects which may vary from school to school. Physical Education is included in the possible range of subjects that is evaluated. In addition, at post-primary level, separate subject inspections of Physical Education are carried out. A number of WSE inspection reports at both primary and post-primary level in which Physical Education was reported upon may be viewed on the website of my Department, together with a number of Subject Inspection reports on Physical Education in various post-primary schools.

The Inspectorate also conducts specialised or thematic evaluations of different aspects of the educational system from time to time. These evaluations, which draw on evidence collected during whole-school and other school inspections at primary and post-primary level, lead to national reports on standards and quality in the educational system. Recent examples have included reports on Irish in primary and post-primary schools (entitled "Irish in the Primary School" and "Looking at Irish at Junior Cycle"), the teaching of Geography in post-primary schools ("Looking at Geography") and on ICT in schools generally ("ICT in Schools"). To date, the Inspectorate has not prepared such a report on Physical Education.

School Staffing.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

462 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta cén fáth nach bhfuil múinteoir ar fáil chun na ranganna ar fad a mhúineadh i nGaelscoil (sonraí tugtha) atá lonnaithe i gceantar a nglactar leis mar cheantar faoi mhíbhuntáiste agus atá i gceantar Tascfhórsa Drugaí. [33421/08]

Socraítear soláthar foirne scoil náisiúnta trí thagairt do rollú na scoile ar 30ú Meán Fómhair na scoilbhliana roimhe sin. Socraítear líon iarbhír na bpost príomhshrutha ceadaithe trí thagairt do sceideal soláthar foirne a eisítear do gach aon bhunscoil gach bliain.

De réir sonraí a chuir Bord Bainistíochta na scoile dá dtagraíonn an Teachta faoi bhráid mo Roinnese, b'é an rollú ar 30ú Meán Fómhair 2007 ná 202 mac léinn. De réir an sceidil foirne (Ciorclán 0010/2008), atá ar fáil ar shuíomh gréasáin mo Roinnese ag www.education.ie agus ar eisíodh cóip chrua de chuig gach uile bhunscoil, Príomhoide amháin agus 8 múinteoir ranga phríomhshrutha a bheidh mar fhoireann príomhshrutha na scoile don scoilbhliain 2008/2009.

Laistigh de théarmaí na socruithe foirne do bhunscoileanna tá soláthar déanta chun poist bhreise, ar a dtugtar poist i mbéal forbartha, a shannadh do scoileanna ar bhonn na rolluithe réamh-mheasta don scoilbhliain dar gcionn. De réir na socruithe seo, féadtar post scoile i mbéal forbartha a cheadú go sealadach áit a bhfuil an rollú réamh-mheasta ar 30ú Meán Fómhair na bliana i gceist comhionann le, nó níos mó ná, figiúr sainithe. Mura bhaintear amach an figiúr sainithe faoi 30ú Meán Fómhair, tarraingítear siar an cead don phost. Ar bhonn an mhéaduithe i rollú na scoile, ceadaíodh post i mbéal forbartha don scoil i gceist don scoilbhliain 2008/2009.

Mar is eol don Teachta déanann DEIS, an plean aicsin do chuimsiú oideachasúil, soláthar do chóras caighdeánaithe, chun leibhéil de mhíbhuntáiste a shainaithint, agus do nua-Chlár Tacaíochta Scoile comhtháite. Deireann plean DEIS go leanfar de thacaíocht airgeadais a sholáthar do bhunscoileanna a bhfuil leibhéal dlúth de mhíbhuntáiste iontu chomh maith le soláthar a dhéanamh do bhunscoileanna eile ina bhfuil an leibhéal de mhíbhuntáiste níos scaipthe.

Is é an Lárionad Taighde Oideachais a bhainistigh an próiseas sainaitheanta scoileanna chun páirt a ghlacadh i DEIS thar ceann mo Roinnese, le tacaíocht ó obair deimhnithe cáilíochta a chomhordaigh oifigí réigiúnacha agus Cigireacht na Roinne.

Cuireadh meicníocht athbhreithnithe ar bun chun aghaidh a thabhairt ar na hábhair a ba chúram do scoileanna nár cháiligh do chuimsiú i DEIS ach a raibh leibhéil de mhíbhuntáiste iontu, ina dtuairim féin, go mba leor é chun go gcuimseofaí sa chlár iad. D'oibrigh an próiseas athbhreithnithe faoi stiúir duine neamhspleách, ar a raibh sé de chúram a chinntiú gur leanadh i gceart gach próiseas agus gnás sainaitheanta cuí i gcás scoileanna a bhí ag cur iarratais isteach ar athbhreithniú.

Mar thoradh ar na próisis sainaitheanta agus athbhreithnithe, tugadh cuireadh do 673 bhunscoileanna agus 203 scoileanna dara leibhéal páirt a ghlacadh sa chlár.

Níor sainaithníodh an scoil dá dtagraíonn an Teachta i gcomhair cuimsithe sa chlár ná níor chuir sí iarratas isteach ar athbhreithniú. Beidh an scoil ag fáil tacaíochta airgeadais i gcónaí de réir na leibhéal de mhíbhuntáiste i measc a daltaí i gcaitheamh plean aicsin DEIS.

School Accommodation.

Enda Kenny

Question:

463 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science if assistance is provided by his Department for the provision of rooms whereby parents can meet either during or after school hours to deal with assistance for children and so on in primary schools here; the details of such assistance; if assistance exists for the provision of outside seating in school yards at primary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33430/08]

Many primary schools have a multi-purpose room which can be used for the purposes referred to by the Deputy. With regard to outdoor seating, my Department's General Design Guidelines for Schools recommend that, in designing a new school, a variety of informal and social areas should be created to suit the learning development and cultural needs of pupils/students during breaks and before and after school. In existing schools, it is open to the school authorities to prioritise expenditure from the school's minor capital works grant and use it to purchase furniture, if required.

Grant-aid for Parents Rooms and Outdoor Play Facilities has also been made available to schools under the Educational Disadvantage category of the Dormant Accounts Fund and the RAPID Leverage Fund. Eligibility for the scheme was restricted to primary and post primary schools participating in my Department's DEIS programme, schools in, or serving, RAPID areas and special schools.

The scheme consists of four measures and a number of sub-measures. The four measures are: Outdoor Play Facilities; Libraries; Parent Rooms; and Dining Areas. Schools were allowed to submit prioritised proposals under each of the measures. To date, a total of €24.5 million has been made available to fund the scheme.

In July 2007, proposals for 447 outdoor play facilities were assessed and approved, totalling €6.25 million in grant-aid. The majority of these projects are now complete and grant-aid has been paid to the schools.

In June 2008, 118 parent room projects and 15 combined library and parent room projects were approved for a total of €6.82 million in grant-aid. These projects are due to be complete by 19 December 2008.

Schools Refurbishment.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

464 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta cad é stádas an iarratais ó scoil (sonraí tugtha) i dTír Chonaill maidir le forbairt na scoile agus cén míniú atá ar an moill 11 bhliain. [33434/08]

Tá an tionscadal dá dtagraíonn an Teachta ag ardchéim pleanála ailtireachta faoi láthair. Tá cead pleanála faighte don tionscadal molta. Machnófar ar dhul chun cinn gach uile tionscadal tógála ar scála mór, an tionscadal seo ina measc, ón túschéim dearaidh go dtí an tógáil, i gcomhthéacs Chlár Tógala agus Athnuachain Scoile Ilbhliantúil mo Roinnse. I bhfianaise na n-éileamh iomaíocha ar bhuiséad caipitil mo Roinne, áfach, ní féidir creatlach ama táscach a chur in iúl do dhul chun cinn an tionscadail ag an am seo.

Schools Building Projects.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

465 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will confirm that the information given to this Deputy in Parliamentary Question No. 217 of 21 May 2008 is accurate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33441/08]

The answer to Parliamentary Question No. 217 of 21st May 2008 did contain an error. That answer informed the Deputy that the project referred to had "been assigned a band rating of 2.5 under the Criteria for Prioritising Large Scale Projects. . .". This was incorrect and I apologise to the Deputy for this error.

The project referred to does in fact carry a band rating of 1.1 in accordance with the Criteria. I thank the Deputy for drawing this to my attention and for affording me an opportunity to correct the record.

James Reilly

Question:

466 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Education and Science if funding will be made available for the necessary two storey extension, refurbishment and upgrading of a school (details supplied) in County Dublin for which planning permission has been granted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33444/08]

The project to which the Deputy refers is to provide a new 16 classroom school building and is at architectural planning. Officials from my Department have received a revised Stage 2A submission, i.e. Developed Sketch Scheme. The Department is currently reviewing the submission.

The planning permission that has been granted is for the new temporary accommodation that must be put on the site to allow the permanent project to proceed. Planning permission for the permanent building has yet to be applied for.

The progression of all large scale building projects from initial design stage through to tender and construction, including this project, will be considered on an on-going basis in the context of my Department's Multi-Annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Early School Leavers.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

467 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will review the decision to cut the budget of the school completion programme by 3% in view of the effect this cut is having and will have on young people at risk of leaving school early and the importance of giving these young people support to make a positive contribution to their community and the economy; if he will ensure that these programmes are adequately funded in budgetary plans for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33459/08]

Brendan Howlin

Question:

527 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will review the notified cut in the school completion programme; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that provision is already inadequate to meet identified needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33713/08]

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

528 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will ensure that a school completion programme (details supplied) in County Kerry will continue to be funded at its present level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33717/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 467, 527 and 528 together.

The School Completion Programme encompasses both primary and post-primary levels and focuses on young people between the ages of 4 and 18 years and is designed to deal with issues of both concentrated and regionally dispersed disadvantage. SCP is a key component of DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunities in Schools) the action plan for educational inclusion, which discriminates positively in favour of children and young people who are at risk of early school leaving.

At present there are 124 projects, comprising 692 schools participating in the School Completion Programme.

As Deputies are aware the Government announced on 8th July 2008 a series of public spending measures in response to the deterioration in the public finances. In common with other Departments, my Department is required to reduce its payroll bill and that of its agencies by 3% by the end of 2009, through all appropriate measures identified by local management in the light of local circumstances. The exceptions to this requirement are certain frontline teaching staff and Special Needs Assistants.

In the Department's letter of 21st August 2008, all SCP projects were advised that they have the authority to manage how the savings are to be achieved. This is to facilitate projects in their efforts to ensure that these necessary steps will be applied in such a manner as to minimise their effect on young people targeted and to prioritise those activities which are found to be of most value in supporting the young people concerned.

In implementing this decision local Managers will have an opportunity to consider measures which might include the control of premium pay, the management of existing or future vacancies, the organisation of work processes and the levels at which work is carried out, as well as control of numbers through recruitment and other measures. This requirement will not have a universal effect on all 124 projects, as projects vary in size, number of schools involved and the number and status of personnel employed and the types of interventions in place.

Under the terms of the Government decision, the allocation for the pay element of the School Completion Programme in 2009 will be framed on the basis that a saving of 3% will be achieved when the pay bill is adjusted to include the full-year cost of Towards 2016 increases payable in 2008. In line with the above, the 2008/09 allocation for SCP projects will be adjusted to reflect increases due under Towards 2016 in 2008 and a saving of 3% in payroll costs for 2009. As this process is ongoing, there has been no effect to date on the services provided by any of the participating projects.

It is envisaged that the savings requested, will lead to rationalisation, with more efficient and cost effective measures being implemented. In this way, it is not expected that there will be any significant diminution of front-line services.

Teaching Qualifications.

Brian Hayes

Question:

468 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary school teachers under probation in the 2008/2009 school year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33474/08]

Brian Hayes

Question:

469 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the breakdown of the institutions at which teachers currently on probation obtained their teaching qualifications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33475/08]

Brian Hayes

Question:

470 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of teachers currently on probation who have yet to pass An Scrúdú le haghaidh Cáilíochta sa Ghaeilge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33476/08]

Brian Hayes

Question:

497 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of probationary teachers or trainee teachers within the Irish education system in each year over the past five years; if his attention has been drawn to the range of educational colleges from which these probationer/trainee teachers come; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33627/08]

Brian Hayes

Question:

500 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of probationer and trainee teachers who have to be inspected by his Department’s inspectorate before qualifying as fully trained teachers in each year over the past ten years; the number of inspectors employed by his Department in each year over the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33641/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 468, 469, 470, 497 and 500 together.

As of Thursday 2nd October, 2,279 teachers have been registered for probation in the 2008/2009 school year. Of the 2,279 teachers, data in respect of the institution from which they obtained their teaching qualification is available in respect of 2,256 cases.

There are 1,787 graduates from 8 Irish Colleges which run courses that are approved for the purpose of employment in primary schools. A further 469 graduates obtained their teaching qualifications in a total of 84 colleges, almost all of which are located in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

All primary teachers who have trained outside of Ireland who have not satisfied the Irish language requirement must successfully complete all modules of the Scrúdú le haghaidh Cailíochta sa Ghaeilge before they can commence their probation in primary schools in Ireland.

The data requested by the Deputy in relation to previous years is not readily available within my Department and would involve an inordinate amount of administrative time to compile.

In relation to the numbers of inspectors employed by my Department at primary level, the total number of primary inspectors in service on 1st September each year for the past 10 years is as follows: 1999 — 64; 2000 — 74; 2001 — 66; 2002 — 77; 2003 — 70; 2004 — 75; 2005 — 71; 2006 — 74; 2007 — 82 ; 2008 — 75.

The above numbers do not include former primary inspectors who are members of the senior management group of the Inspectorate.

School Staffing.

Brian Hayes

Question:

471 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of additional undergraduate and postgraduate primary school teacher places introduced since 2000, up to and including the 2008-09 academic year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33477/08]

The level of student intake to the Colleges of Education is determined annually by my Department and it takes account of the supply of, and demand for primary teachers.

The number of places on the Bachelor of Education and Post Graduate courses are detailed in the following table. B.Ed and Post-Graduate Student

Intake 2000-2008

Year

B.Ed Intake

Post-Graduate Intake

Increase

2000/2001

1,000

280

2001/2002

1,000

280

2002/2003

1,000

280

2003/2004

1,000

280

2004/2005

1,000

280

2005/2006

1,000

280

2007/2008

1,000

280

2008/2009

1,000

490

210

The intake into the Colleges of Education in future years will continue to be kept under review by my Department to ensure that there is an adequate supply of teachers. In this regard, the Teaching Council's database of registered teachers will be able to provide a range of different information on the numbers of registered teachers in various disciplines and on their qualifications. This information will provide valuable input into my Department's examination of issues around the supply and demand for teachers.

As the Deputy will see from the table my Department approved an additional 210 post graduate teacher training places for the 2008 intake bringing the total number of post graduate students in the four colleges who are studying to become primary teachers to 490.

In addition to the above, an on-line Graduate Diploma in Primary Education, accredited by the Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC), has been provided by Hibernia College since 2004. This is a part time course and allows third level graduates to continue working while studying for their teaching qualification. The Graduate Diploma conferred at the end of this course, is recognised by my Department for the purposes of primary teaching. It is estimated that there will be in the region of 500 graduates from the Hibernia College in 2008.

Special Educational Needs.

Brian Hayes

Question:

472 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the breakdown of the number of personnel involved in delivering special needs education in primary schools including special needs assistants, language support, resource and learning support staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33478/08]

The Deputy will be aware of my Department's commitment to ensuring that all children including those with special needs can have access to an education appropriate to their needs preferably in school settings through the primary school network.

The supports available at primary level include over 8,300 Special Needs Assistant posts supporting with children with special care needs, over 5,100 learning support/resource teachers, over 1,100 teachers in special schools in addition to many hundreds of teachers in special classes for children with different disabilities.

In addition, there are currently in excess of 1,500 language support teachers at primary level providing support to approximately 21,000 pupils for whom English is a second language.

School Inspectors.

Brian Hayes

Question:

473 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of inspectors employed by his Department in carrying out whole school evaluations at primary and secondary level; the number of schools covered on average by each inspector; the number of whole school evaluations carried out on average per year at primary and second level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33479/08]

On 1 September 2008 there were 110 primary and post-primary inspectors assigned to school evaluation activities including the conduct of whole-school evaluations. There were 59 primary inspectors and 51 post-primary inspectors.

At primary level whole-school evaluations can be conducted by individual inspectors or by teams of up to 4 inspectors, depending on the size of the school. In post-primary schools, whole-school evaluation teams generally range from 5 to 7 inspectors. Because of the team approach to whole-school evaluation the number of evaluations an inspector may be scheduled to participate in normally ranges from 7 to 14 whole-school evaluations each year.

A total of 300 whole-school evaluations were conducted during 2007. These included 241 whole-school evaluations in primary schools and 59 post-primary whole-school evaluations. These figures can be taken as representative of the average annual output for whole-school evaluations.

During 2007, in addition to whole-school evaluations, primary inspectors conducted inspections in respect of more than 2,300 primary teachers on probation. During the same period, post-primary inspectors conducted in the region of 550 stand-alone subject or programme inspections. Inspectors, therefore, visit a significant proportion of the schools in the country each year in the context of their inspection work and this is beneficial in terms of engaging with school principals and teachers and providing advice.

Special Educational Needs.

Brian Hayes

Question:

474 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of special classes for children with mild or general learning difficulties provided for in mainstream schools; the number of children catered for by these classes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33480/08]

There are over 350 special classes for pupils with mild general learning difficulties in the primary school system. I will arrange for the number of enrolled children to be sent to the Deputy when it has been compiled.

Pupils with a mild general learning disability who are not enrolled in a special class are entitled to additional teaching support in school under the terms of the general allocation system for children with high incidence special needs. One of the benefits of the general allocation system is that it has put support teaching resources in place in schools on a more systematic basis. This facilitates flexible and early intervention and gives schools more certainty about their resource levels.

School Staffing.

Brian Hayes

Question:

475 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the gender breakdown for primary and post-primary teachers for each year since 2000, including the complement of teachers in the 2008-09 school year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33481/08]

The information requested by the Deputy is in the following table. The details provided relate to teachers employed in Primary, Secondary and Community/ Comprehensive schools and paid on payrolls operated by my Department.

Gender Breakdown Primary Teachers

School Year

Male

Female

%

%

2008/09

15.88

84.12

2007/08

16.03

83.97

2006/07

15.68

84.32

2005/06

16.30

83.70

2004/05

17.10

82.90

2003/04

17.58

82.42

2002/03

18.18

81.82

2001/02

18.95

81.05

2000/01

19.71

80.29

Gender Breakdown Post Primary Teachers

School Year

Male

Female

%

%

2008/09

38.50

61.50

2007/08

38.94

61.06

2006/07

39.00

61.00

2005/06

38.56

61.44

2004/05

37.98

62.02

2003/04

38.32

61.68

2002/03

37.83

62.17

2001/02

41.46

58.54

2000/01

41.69

58.31

Higher Education Grants.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

476 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta an gcuirfidh sé deireadh leis an éagothromaíocht idir an Scoláireacht Gaeltachta Tríú Leibhéal agus Scoláireachtaí Laochra na Cásca agus Dhonncha Uí Mháille. [33483/08]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

477 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta cad iad na téarmaí tagartha a bhaineann lena athbhreithniú ar an Scoláireacht Gaeltachta Tríú Leibhéal. [33484/08]

Tógfaigh mé Ceisteanna 476 agus 477 le chéile.

Oibríonn mo Roinnse roinnt scéimeanna scoláireachta tríú leibhéal. Tá critéir, riachtanais, agus cuspóirí éagsúla ag na scéimeanna seo agus dá réir sin is cuí go mbeadh téarmaí agus coinníollacha éagsúla ag baint le gach aon cheann acu.

Tá sé i gceist athbhreithniú a dhéanamh i rith na bliana acadúla seo chugainn ar na trí scéimeanna scoláireachta Gaeilge tríú leibhéal atá ann faoi láthair, d'fhonn a n-éifeacht maidir le comhlíonadh a gcuspóirí a mheas. Machnófar raon ceisteanna, téarmaí agus coinníollacha na scéimeanna ina measc, i gcomhthéacs an athbhreithnithe seo. Tá téarmaí tagartha don athbhreithniú á machnamh faoi láthair ag mo Roinnse.

Schools Building Projects.

Denis Naughten

Question:

478 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science when tenders will be sought for a school (details supplied) in County Roscommon; if the school has been designated as being in a rapidly developing area; if consideration is being given to its inclusion in the next round of public private partnership projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33529/08]

The application for the school referred to by the Deputy is 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.

The school has not been designated as being in a rapidly developing area. This school is not being considered in the context of the next round of public private partnership projects as the project is already at an advanced stage of architectural planning and involves an extension to an existing school rather than a new build.

School Accommodation.

Denis Naughten

Question:

479 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the cost of prefab classrooms on an annual basis for each school in counties Roscommon and Leitrim; the steps being taken in each case to eliminate this cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33530/08]

My Department has surveyed almost 900 primary schools across the country regarding their use of rented prefabricated accommodation and is in the process of compiling this information. The information gathered will be used to produce a database of information on rented prefabricated accommodation which will be maintained on an ongoing basis and will inform my Department's future decision-making in this area. This work is well advanced and I anticipate it will be completed shortly. When the information from the survey on rental of prefabricated accommodation is complete I will write to the Deputy with the relevant information.

My Department provides grant-aid towards the provision of temporary school accommodation to the management authorities of education providers where it is established that a need for such temporary accommodation exists.

My Department has undertaken an assessment of the rental of temporary accommodation with a view to identifying the point at which purchase of such accommodation provides better value for money than rental. As a result of this assessment, my Department now has a policy of purchasing temporary accommodation where the need for this is likely to last for more than three years.

The Permanent Accommodation Scheme was introduced in 2003 to reduce the need for prefabs. It was designed to give value for money in terms of providing permanent accommodation in place of prefabs, where an accommodation need was likely to exist for a considerable length of time. Since its introduction, over €100 million has been allocated to schools under the scheme and it has resulted in the provision of an additional 625 classrooms and 275 resource rooms in schools around the country. This is in addition to those classrooms provided under the major capital projects managed by my Department.

Had the Permanent Accommodation Scheme not been in place, a very significant proportion of those classrooms and resource rooms would have had to be provided using temporary accommodation such as prefabricated classrooms.

In July of this year I introduced a further innovation which allows those schools with an urgent and pressing need for additional accommodation and who are being given approval for grant-aid to avail of the option of using their grants to purchase prefabs or to construct permanent classrooms for the same amount.

Despite this, it will continue to be necessary for prefabricated accommodation to be provided because competing priorities mean that it will not always be possible to have a permanent accommodation solution in place in a short time-frame. 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.

Schools Building Projects.

Denis Naughten

Question:

480 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science when he will announce the next public private partnership schools bundle; if he has finalised the schools to be included; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33531/08]

The make up and timing of further school bundles in my Department's PPP school building programme will be determined by my Department in consultation with the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA). The issues to be considered in the timing and bundling of these schools include site availability for each school, geographical spread and the estimated total cost of the proposed school bundle.

My Department is currently examining the suitability of a number of schools for inclusion in the 3rd Bundle of school projects to be procured via Public Private Partnership. This examination is nearing completion and I will be announcing the make-up of the 3rd Schools Bundle as quickly as possible.

School Curriculum.

Brian Hayes

Question:

481 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if the area of computation in maths has been considered by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment or by his Department in terms of helping students to manage maths as a subject within the primary and secondary curriculum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33594/08]

The term ‘computation' has a variety of different meanings, ranging from a simple process of (number) calculation or reckoning, to very sophisticated algorithms or protocols that occur within closed physical systems, such as computers.

In respect of school students and their learning in mathematics, computation in terms of number operations is included at both primary and second level, and is accompanied by estimation, by means of which the reasonableness of the outcome of a calculation can be judged. This is particularly important where the use of a calculator is intended for all or part of the process, so that students have a means of checking their answers. Apart from initial learning and practice of the number operations themselves, which typically would form an introduction to the study of ‘number', their use arises frequently in other areas of mathematics and thus the students' computation skills are reinforced. Development of good computation skills is seen as essential for successful study of later topics in mathematics at all levels.

Applications of computation in post-primary mathematics which involve formulae/algorithms arise, for example, in topics within ‘applied arithmetic and measure' such as mensuration (involving calculation of area of shapes, etc.), or when determining the compound interest gained by investing a sum of money at a given rate of interest over a stated period of time. Similarly, topics such as sequences and series involve establishing and/or using a relationship which describes the pattern of numbers in a given situation/problem to compute specific elements of the sequence or series.

Appropriate use of the calculator or computer also features in both primary and post-primary mathematics. This technology itself depends on algorithms and routines for computing the results of frequently very complex mathematical problems, and its use greatly enables the student to focus on the mathematics involved rather than on the tedious task of processing the numbers with accuracy.

"Computation" is included in the current Junior Certificate Mathematics Syllabus as part of the Arithmetic strand of Mathematics. This is part of strand 3 of the revision of syllabuses taking place as part of "Project Maths". Work has begun to revise strand three currently at course committee level and will be completed before the end of the current school year. At that stage a draft strand 3 syllabus will be introduced in the 24 pilot schools. The syllabus will be introduced in all schools from Sept 2011.

State Examinations.

Brian Hayes

Question:

482 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of students who failed ordinary level maths in the leaving certificate in each year over the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33595/08]

The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations, including organising the holding of examinations and issuing the results of examinations.

In the State examinations all candidates who attempt an examination in a particular subject are awarded a grade ranging from an A (85% and above) to an NG (less than 10%). In the Leaving Certificate, the A grade is sub-divided into an A1 and A2. Irrespective of the grade obtained, all candidates receive a certificate that records all their grades and no candidate is deemed to have failed any examination.

Statistics in relation to percentage breakdown of candidates by grade awarded in each subject from 2006 to 2008 are available on the State Examinations website — www.examinations.ie

A major programme of reform in Mathematics is now under way at Junior and Leaving Certificate Level, which is designed to improve understanding in Mathematics.

The main features of Project Maths reforms are designed to

Provide a bridging framework from the revised primary curriculum into second level

Promote greater maths literacy across the school population

Bring changed emphasis in the mathematics learnt and, in particular, a strong focus on context and applications and problem solving in a general move towards a strengthened emphasis on "real mathematics education" and a greater ICT dimension

Encourage greater take up at higher level

Provide a solid foundation which prepares students for careers in science, technology, engineering, business or humanities options

Provide for an innovative professional development model under which change would be implemented in various areas of maths on a phased basis in a rolling programme of reform. Lesson plans and exemplars would be developed and piloted in schools, then go on a national website and the examination system in that area would change at that stage

For schools involved in the initial implementation from September 2008, students will experience mathematics in a new way. Teachers will be provided with classroom materials to enable them to adopt the new approaches and will be supported professionally in embracing change. These materials and supports will include lesson plans, with teacher guides and student worksheets, on-line exemplars and a range of assessment materials. Examination questions will also be changed for these students.

The changes will be phased over 3 years, initially in the project schools, beginning in September 2008. In mainstream schools, the changes will begin in September 2010, preceded by professional development for teachers the previous year.

School Enrolments.

Brian Hayes

Question:

483 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of appeals taken under section 29 of the Education Act 1998 by parents to his Department in each year over the past five years, in connection with the decision to appeal an enrolment decision by various schools here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33596/08]

Enrolment decisions are the responsibility of the Board of Management of each individual school. Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, provides parents with an appeal process where a Board of Management of a school or a person acting on behalf of the Board refuses enrolment to a student. In these circumstances, the school is obliged to inform parents of their right under Section 29 of Education Act 1998 to appeal that decision. Where the school is established or maintained by a VEC an appeal shall lie in the first instance to the VEC and thereafter to the Secretary General of my Department. It is only where an appeal under Section 29 is upheld that the Secretary General of my Department may direct a school to enrol or re-instate a pupil.

The information requested by the Deputy is detailed in the following table. It breaks down appeals to the Secretary General by year and between the Primary and Post Primary sectors.

Year

Primary Schools

Post Primary Schools

Total

20081

126

101

227

2007

188

108

296

2006

74

93

167

2005

70

137

207

2004

74

118

192

2003

48

58

106

1Reflects figures from January to September 2008.

Schools Building Projects.

Brian Hayes

Question:

484 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools which applied to his Department in 2007 and to date in 2008, for emergency works in respect of their school; the criteria considered by his Department when a decision is reached regarding which school to grant funds for in respect of emergency works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33597/08]

The Modernisation and Policy Unit of my Department received around 670 applications for funding under the Contingency (Emergency) Works Fund in 2007 and around 750 since the beginning of January 2008. Grants from this fund are available for very urgent unforeseen works, primarily of a major health and safety nature, to schools that are in most need of resources for capital works.

Legislative Programme.

John O'Mahony

Question:

485 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Education and Science his legislative plans for the current Dáil session; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33600/08]

The position in relation to legislation planned for the current Dáil session is as set out in the Government's Legislative programme. The Student Support Bill 2008 is scheduled to be taken at Committee Stage in the current Dáil session.

There are a further three draft measures on which it is proposed to seek Government approval for drafting. These are: The Education (Patronage) Bill — to amend the Vocational Education Acts 1930-2006 and the Education Act 1998 to enable the VECs to provide an additional model of primary school Patronage. The Education Ireland Bill — to establish a body to regulate the provision of education services, including the teaching of English as a foreign language to foreign students and to provide for related matters. George Mitchell Scholarship Fund Act 1998 (Amendment) Bill To amend the legislation to facilitate an increase in Ireland's contribution to the Fund over the next 5 years.

Psychological Service.

John O'Mahony

Question:

486 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of National Educational Psychological Service psychologists employed in County Mayo; the number that has been deemed appropriate for the County; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33601/08]

As the Deputy will be aware all primary and post primary schools have access to psychological assessments either directly through the NEPS or through the Scheme for Commissioning Psychological Assessments (SCPA). Schools that do not currently have NEPS psychologists assigned to them may avail of the SCPA, whereby the school can have an assessment carried out by a member of the panel of private psychologists approved by NEPS, and NEPS will pay the psychologist the fees for this assessment directly.

I can inform the Deputy that NEPS service to Co. Mayo schools is provided, in the main, through its office in Castlebar. In the last academic year four NEPS psychologists were accommodated therein and coverage was provided to 71% of Mayo schools representing some 85% of the counties' pupils.

I can also inform the Deputy that an additional psychologist is to be employed in the Castlebar office before the end of 2008 which result in a further increase in NEPS coverage of schools in the county. A sixth posting for Castlebar, bringing the office up to its full planned complement, is under consideration. The timing of such an appointment will be decided in the context of the finalisation of my Department's 2009 Estimates allocation.

School Transport.

John O'Mahony

Question:

487 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans to carry out a review of school bus transport catchment areas and boundaries; when this review is expected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33605/08]

My Department is currently finalising proposals for progressing the commitment given in the Programme for Government to review the school transport system including catchment boundaries.

Capitation Grants.

John O'Mahony

Question:

488 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans to increase the level of the capitation grant for primary and secondary schools; if his attention has been drawn to the inadequacy of the grant in meeting day to day expenditure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33606/08]

The scope for any increases in the capitation grant for primary or post-primary schools has to be considered in the context of Government budgetary policy and the overall economic climate.

My Department is aware of the funding pressures on schools. However, progress has been made in recent years that has seen the primary school capitation grant increased from €81.26 per pupil in 2000 to its current rate of €178.58. This represents an increase of almost 120% in the standard rate of capitation grant since 2000. The compares to a cumulative increase in the Consumer Price Index between 2000 and the end of 2007 of about 30%.

In 2008 alone the Department has paid around €167m to primary schools to meet their day to day running costs. The improvements mean that the combined day-to-day funding for primary schools has increased by €21 to €330 per pupil. As a result, a primary school with 300 pupils will receive almost €100,000 to meet their running costs.

Furthermore enhanced rates of capitation funding are paid in respect of children with special educational needs who attend special schools or special classes attached to mainstream schools. The current rates range from €457 to €880 per pupil — an increase of 42% from the rate in 2006. The funding arrangements made by my Department for second level schools reflect the sectoral division of our second level system. At the core of all arrangements is a reliance upon capitation as the principal determinant of funding.

There have been significant improvements in recent years in the level of funding for voluntary secondary schools. With effect from January 2008, the standard per capita grant was increased by €15 per pupil and now amounts to €331 per pupil. In addition, voluntary secondary schools have benefited by the increase of €15 per pupil in 2008 in the support services grant bringing that grant to €204 per pupil.

The cumulative increase of €30 per pupil in a voluntary secondary school brings the aggregate grant to €535 per pupil. These grants are in addition to the per capita funding of up to €40,000 per school that is also provided by my Department to secondary schools towards secretarial and caretaking services. For example in the case of a secondary school with 500 pupils, this brings annual grants towards general expenses and support service to over €300,000.

Budget allocations for schools in the Community and Comprehensive school sector along with those in the VEC sector are increased on a pro rata basis with increases in the per capita grant. All schools are eligible for recurrent per capita grants towards special classes and curricular support grants.

These significant increases in funding are a clear demonstration of my commitment to prioritise available resources to address the needs of schools.

Schools Refurbishment.

John O'Mahony

Question:

489 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Education and Science the action he is taking to upgrade primary schools in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33607/08]

In Mayo this year, seven major school projects were under construction, of which two are primary schools and two are special schools. In addition to this, there are seven major projects in Mayo in various stages of Architectural Planning of which three are primary schools.

Since the introduction of the Small Schools Scheme, thirty one Primary Schools in Co. Mayo have received funding under the scheme and thirteen Primary Schools in Co. Mayo have received funding under the Permanent Accommodation Scheme, since its introduction.

On Monday 29th September, I announced a further tranche of projects to progress through the school building programme. Included in this tranche was Davitt College in Castlebar where the provision of a new PE hall will benefit 600 pupils. It is my intention to make a further announcement in the first quarter of 2009 on major primary and post-primary school projects to proceed to construction.

School Meals Programme.

John O'Mahony

Question:

490 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary schools in County Mayo that provide a breakfast club for their students; his views on the introduction of a universal meal system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33609/08]

The provision of school meals is primarily funded by the School Meals Programme, administered by my colleague, the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, and involving both an urban scheme operated by local authorities and a local projects scheme.

The School Meals Programme aims to supplement the nutritional intake of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds in order to allow them to fulfil their potential within the educational system and also to reduce the risk of early school leaving. Breakfast clubs provide a caring and supportive environment where young people can engage with their peers and discuss things in a social setting. This also provides an opportunity to prepare for the school day. Parents are also encouraged to become involved in running breakfast clubs, many of which are also supported by charitable agencies which bring with them expertise such as family support.

The majority of the 124 projects currently participating in the School Completion Programme operate breakfast clubs or other meal provision, in accordance with the Nutritional Guidelines issued by the Department of Social and Family Affairs.

My Department has also been working in close co-operation with the Department of Social and Family Affairs to ensure that the resources available for school meals are used to best effect and to further expand school meals provision in schools serving disadvantaged communities.

Special Educational Needs.

Pat Breen

Question:

491 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 214 of 22 May 2008, the progress to date in finalising an agreement with a group (details supplied) for the provision of education for children with autism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33614/08]

The Deputy will be aware of the Programme for Government commitment to the long-term funding for the centres that are currently in the ABA pilot scheme subject to agreement with my Department on standards that will enable them to be supported as primary schools for children with autism.

The Deputy will appreciate that I am not in a position to comment while the discussions are ongoing between officials in my Department and groups representing the centres.

Schools Building Projects.

Pat Breen

Question:

492 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 352, 353 and 354 of 27 May 2008, if his Department has completed the compilation of the database on the number of prefabricated buildings in use at all primary and post-primary schools here; if so, the number of schools both primary and secondary in County Clare using prefabs for classrooms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33615/08]

My Department has surveyed almost 900 primary schools across the country regarding their use of rented prefabricated accommodation and is in the process of compiling this information. The information gathered will be used to produce a database of information on rented prefabricated accommodation which will be maintained on an ongoing basis and will inform my Department's future decision-making in this area. This work is well advanced and I anticipate it will be completed shortly.

My Department has also undertaken an assessment of the rental of temporary accommodation with a view to identifying the point at which purchase of such accommodation provides better value for money than rental. As a result of this assessment, my Department now has a policy of purchasing temporary accommodation where the need for this is likely to last for more than three years. When the information from the survey on rental of prefabricated accommodation is complete I will write to the Deputy with the relevant information.

School Staffing.

Phil Hogan

Question:

493 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science if a school (details supplied) in County Carlow is in a clustering arrangement under the general allocation system 2005; if the school has access to 2.5 hours as in previous years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33617/08]

I can confirm to the Deputy that the school in question in County Carlow is in a clustering arrangement with another school and continues to have access to the same hours under the general allocation system as pertained in previous years.

Site Acquisitions.

John Cregan

Question:

494 Deputy John Cregan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will have arrangements made for the partial surrender of lands (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33618/08]

A request for the partial surrender of lands at the school referred to by the Deputy has been received. My officials have requested a report from the school Inspector and this is awaited. On receipt of this report, a decision will be made.

Schools Building Projects.

John Cregan

Question:

495 Deputy John Cregan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress made to date regarding the provision of a new second level college at Croom, County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33619/08]

A schedule of overall accommodation for a projected long-term enrolment of 800 has been drawn up and agreed with the School Authorities for the school to which the Deputy refers. County Limerick V.E.C are taking the lead role in identifying and acquiring a new site for the proposed new school. The acquisition of the site will be considered in the context of the capital budget available to my Department for school buildings generally. I am not in a position to say at this stage when the acquisition will be concluded.

Departmental Staff.

Joan Burton

Question:

496 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number and proportion of the increase in the number of public servants in or under the aegis of his Department from 67,845 in 2000 to 93,940 in 2008, accounted for by teachers, other teaching staff and other non-teaching staff respectively; the number and proportion of the staff as at both end 2000 and at end 2008 accounted for by teachers, other teaching staff and other non-teaching staff respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33621/08]

In the year 2000 there were 47,426 first and second level teachers and by June 2008 the figure had risen to 57,909. The following information on numbers of staff (excluding Department staff) may also be of assistance:

2000: First level — 23,702. Second level — 27,965. Third level- 15,063.

2008 (June): First level — 38,980. Second level — 31,839. third level — 20,371.

Question No. 497 answered with Question No. 468.

Teaching Qualifications.

Brian Hayes

Question:

498 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of teacher education colleges outside of the State that have produced graduates ultimately or trainee teachers within the Irish education system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33628/08]

The Teaching Council is the designated statutory body for the recognition of qualifications for teaching and is obliged to establish and maintain a Register of Teachers.

Based on the records on the Register of Teachers, there are 123 colleges or universities in Northern Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland that run (or ran) Teacher Education Programmes where graduates were recognised by the Teaching Council or the Department of Education and Science. There are also approximately 730 other ‘international' qualifications awarded by colleges or universities outside jurisdictions above that have been recognised by the Teaching Council or the Department of Education and Science in the process of teacher registration. As the recording of teacher qualifications is still ongoing, these details may change.

Schools Building Projects.

Brian Hayes

Question:

499 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason the school building programme is not published on his Department’s website; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33629/08]

My Department's website is due to receive a major hardware upgrade and I have asked my officials to examine ways in which the upgraded website can be used to communicate information on the school building programme when this work has been completed.

Question No. 500 answered with Question No. 468.

Jack Wall

Question:

501 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if consideration, for 2009, will be made for a school (details supplied) in County Kildare whose lease expires before then; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33644/08]

Jack Wall

Question:

502 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the position of an application for a new primary school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33645/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 501 and 502 together.

My Department has already made a significant contribution to the accommodation needs of the town referred to by the Deputy with the provision of a new 8-classroom building, due for completion at the end of October.

An application for grant aid for major capital works was received from the school to which the Deputy refers on 1st May 2007.

Future school accommodation needs in the town in question from 2009 onwards will be considered in the context of my Department's Multi-Annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Higher Education Grants.

Martin Ferris

Question:

503 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will reassess the application for a grant by a person (details supplied) in County Kerry. [33647/08]

The decision on eligibility for student maintenance grants is a matter for the relevant assessing authority, either the local authority or VEC, as appropriate. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department, except in exceptional circumstances.

If an individual applicant considers that she/he has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant, or that the rate of maintenance grant awarded is not the correct one, she/he may appeal, in the first instance, to the relevant local authority or VEC.

Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by the relevant local authority or VEC and remains of the view that the body has not interpreted the schemes correctly in his/her case, an appeal form outlining the position may be submitted by the applicant to my Department.

Special Educational Needs.

P. J. Sheehan

Question:

504 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans to review the general allocation model for special needs education provision in primary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33654/08]

As the Deputy will be aware, the general allocation model was introduced in primary schools in September 2005 to ensure that each school has learning support/resource teaching support available to meet the needs of children with high incidence special educational needs. A review of the general allocation model is currently underway.

School Accommodation.

Alan Shatter

Question:

505 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Ballinteer, Dublin south who are in temporary or prefabricated buildings; the schools in respect of the pupils concerned; the locations where temporary or prefabricated buildings are rented; the annual rent applicable in each case; the locations where such buildings were purchased; the date of purchase and the cost of same; if purchased or rented, the moneys spent on repair and refurbishment of such buildings since first used by the schools concerned; and the position with regard to the provision of the required permanent school building or buildings for the relevant schools. [33659/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

506 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Stepaside, Dublin south who are in temporary or prefabricated buildings; the schools in respect of the pupils concerned; the locations where temporary or prefabricated buildings are rented; the annual rent applicable in each case; the locations where such buildings were purchased; the date of purchase and the cost of same; if purchased or rented, the moneys spent on repair and refurbishment of such buildings since first used by the schools concerned; and the position with regard to the provision of the required permanent school building or buildings for the relevant schools. [33660/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

507 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Rathfarnham, Dublin south who are in temporary or prefabricated buildings; the schools in respect of the pupils concerned; the locations where temporary or prefabricated buildings are rented; the annual rent applicable in each case; the locations where such buildings were purchased; the date of purchase and the cost of same; if purchased or rented, the moneys spent on repair and refurbishment of such buildings since first used by the schools concerned; and the position with regard to the provision of the required permanent school building or buildings for the relevant schools. [33661/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

508 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Mount Merrion, Dublin south who are in temporary or prefabricated buildings; the schools in respect of the pupils concerned; the locations where temporary or prefabricated buildings are rented; the annual rent applicable in each case; the locations where such buildings were purchased; the date of purchase and the cost of same; if purchased or rented, the moneys spent on repair and refurbishment of such buildings since first used by the schools concerned; and the position with regard to the provision of the required permanent school building or buildings for the relevant schools. [33662/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

509 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Leopardstown, Dublin south who are in temporary or prefabricated buildings; the schools in respect of the pupils concerned; the locations where temporary or prefabricated buildings are rented; the annual rent applicable in each case; the locations where such buildings were purchased; the date of purchase and the cost of same; if purchased or rented, the moneys spent on repair and refurbishment of such buildings since first used by the schools concerned; and the position with regard to the provision of the required permanent school building or buildings for the relevant schools. [33663/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

510 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Knocklyon, Dublin south who are in temporary or prefabricated buildings; the schools in respect of the pupils concerned; the locations where temporary or prefabricated buildings are rented; the annual rent applicable in each case; the locations where such buildings were purchased; the date of purchase and the cost of same; if purchased or rented, the moneys spent on repair and refurbishment of such buildings since first used by the schools concerned; and the position with regard to the provision of the required permanent school building or buildings for the relevant schools. [33664/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

511 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Kilternan, Dublin south who are in temporary or prefabricated buildings; the schools in respect of the pupils concerned; the locations where temporary or prefabricated buildings are rented; the annual rent applicable in each case; the locations where such buildings were purchased; the date of purchase and the cost of same; if purchased or rented, the moneys spent on repair and refurbishment of such buildings since first used by the schools concerned; and the position with regard to the provision of the required permanent school building or buildings for the relevant schools. [33665/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

512 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Kilmacud, Dublin south who are in temporary or prefabricated buildings; the schools in respect of the pupils concerned; the locations where temporary or prefabricated buildings are rented; the annual rent applicable in each case; the locations where such buildings were purchased; the date of purchase and the cost of same; if purchased or rented, the moneys spent on repair and refurbishment of such buildings since first used by the schools concerned; and the position with regard to the provision of the required permanent school building or buildings for the relevant schools. [33666/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

513 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Glencullen, Dublin south who are in temporary or prefabricated buildings; the schools in respect of the pupils concerned; the locations where temporary or prefabricated buildings are rented; the annual rent applicable in each case; the locations where such buildings were purchased; the date of purchase and the cost of same; if purchased or rented, the moneys spent on repair and refurbishment of such buildings since first used by the schools concerned; and the position with regard to the provision of the required permanent school building or buildings for the relevant schools. [33667/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

514 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Foxrock, Dublin south who are in temporary or prefabricated buildings; the schools in respect of the pupils concerned; the locations where temporary or prefabricated buildings are rented; the annual rent applicable in each case; the locations where such buildings were purchased; the date of purchase and the cost of same; if purchased or rented, the moneys spent on repair and refurbishment of such buildings since first used by the schools concerned; and the position with regard to the provision of the required permanent school building or buildings for the relevant schools. [33668/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

515 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Dundrum, Dublin south who are in temporary or prefabricated buildings; the schools in respect of the pupils concerned; the locations where temporary or prefabricated buildings are rented; the annual rent applicable in each case; the locations where such buildings were purchased; the date of purchase and the cost of same; if purchased or rented, the moneys spent on repair and refurbishment of such buildings since first used by the schools concerned; and the position with regard to the provision of the required permanent school building or buildings for the relevant schools. [33669/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

516 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Clonskeagh, Dublin south who are in temporary or prefabricated buildings; the schools in respect of the pupils concerned; the locations where temporary or prefabricated buildings are rented; the annual rent applicable in each case; the locations where such buildings were purchased; the date of purchase and the cost of same; if purchased or rented, the moneys spent on repair and refurbishment of such buildings since first used by the schools concerned; and the position with regard to the provision of the required permanent school building or buildings for the relevant schools. [33670/08]

Alan Shatter

Question:

517 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Stillorgan, Dublin south who are in temporary or prefabricated buildings; the schools in respect of the pupils concerned; the locations where temporary or prefabricated buildings are rented; the annual rent applicable in each case; the locations where such buildings were purchased; the date of purchase and the cost of same; if purchased or rented, the moneys spent on repair and refurbishment of such buildings since first used by the schools concerned; and the position with regard to the provision of the required permanent school building or buildings for the relevant schools. [33671/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 505 to 517, 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 resource and other teachers to schools in recent years, the Government could have decided to make children wait until permanent accommodation could be provided. However, we prioritised putting the extra teachers into schools as soon as possible and, in some cases, this has involved the provision of high-quality steel-framed prefabricated structures to accommodate them.

In general, my Department approves the purchase or rental of prefabricated classrooms based on need at the time of application. Local school managements then organise their class numbers, year on year, to achieve the optimum local efficiencies. My Department does not hold information on the numbers of pupils in individual schools who currently occupy temporary accommodation. It is not possible therefore, to provide the details based on pupil numbers requested by the Deputy.

My Department examines all applications for additional accommodation on an individual basis to determine if the need exists in the first instance. However, while comprehensive information on the provision of temporary accommodation is held on individual school files, my Department does not have a central database of those schools that are currently fully or partially accommodated in temporary or prefabricated accommodation.

My Department has surveyed almost 900 primary schools across the country regarding their use of rented prefabricated accommodation and is in the process of compiling this information. The information gathered will be used to produce a database of information on rented prefabricated accommodation which will be maintained on an ongoing basis and will inform my Department's future decision-making in this area. This work is well advanced and I anticipate it will be completed shortly.

With regard to repairs where temporary accommodation is rented, it would generally be the responsibility of the contractor to effect such repairs as are necessary from time to time. Where temporary accommodation has been purchased and is in need of repair or replacement, my Department would deal with such applications from schools on an individual basis as the need arises. This information is not held in a readily accessible aggregate form for the areas requested by the Deputy.

The Permanent Accommodation Scheme was introduced in 2003 to reduce the need for prefabs. It was designed to give value for money in terms of providing permanent accommodation in place of prefabs, where an accommodation need was likely to exist for a considerable length of time. Since its introduction, over €100m has been allocated to schools under the scheme and it has resulted in the provision of an additional 625 classrooms and 275 resource rooms in schools around the country. This is in addition to those classrooms provided under the major capital projects managed by my Department. Had the Permanent Accommodation Scheme not been in place, a very significant proportion of those classrooms and resource rooms would have had to be provided using temporary accommodation such as prefabricated classrooms.

In July of this year I introduced a further innovation which allows those schools with an urgent and pressing need for additional accommodation and who are being given approval for grant-aid to avail of the option of using their grants to purchase prefabs or to construct permanent classrooms for the same amount.

With regard to the progression of individual school building projects, the Deputy will be aware that the commencement and progression of all large scale building projects from initial design stage through to construction phase is under consideration in the context of my Department's Multi-Annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.

School Transport.

James Bannon

Question:

518 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Longford was refused a place on the school bus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33678/08]

The Transport Liaison Officer for Co. Longford has informed my Department that the application for school transport for the pupil referred to by the Deputy, was received after the commencement of the school year and all seats on the service had been allocated. The situation will be reviewed at the end of the first school term.

Higher Education Grants.

James Bannon

Question:

519 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Longford does not qualify for a higher education grant in respect of three children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33681/08]

The decision on eligibility for student maintenance grants is a matter for the relevant assessing authority, either the local authority or VEC, as appropriate. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department, except in exceptional circumstances.

If an individual applicant considers that she/he has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant, or that the rate of maintenance grant awarded is not the correct one, she/he may appeal, in the first instance, to the relevant local authority or VEC.

Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by the relevant local authority or VEC and remains of the view that the body has not interpreted the schemes correctly in his/her case, an appeal form outlining the position may be submitted by the applicant to my Department.

Schools Building Projects.

Brian Hayes

Question:

520 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science when works on a school (details supplied) will be carried out under the school building and modernisation programme; if his attention has been drawn to the contents of an inspection report of the school’s electrical works which was carried out in June 2007 which highlighted the state of the school’s electrics; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33698/08]

The project to which the Deputy refers is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning. Planning permission for the proposed project has been received.

A report from a local Electrical Contractor outlining issues relating to the electrics in the current school building has recently been received by my Department and a response has issued to the school authorities regarding this.

The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction 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.

Strategic Innovation Fund.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

521 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the status regarding the strategic innovation fund; the way the money provided will be funded over a longer period of time than initially thought; the schemes the allocated moneys will cover; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33706/08]

The Government introduced a multi-annual Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) for higher education in 2006 with an allocation of €510 million over the period of the National Development Plan. The Fund is intended to be a major catalyst in bringing about substantial change and quality improvement in our higher education institutions and promoting system-wide collaboration that draws on all institutions' collective strengths.

Projects approved under the Fund are aimed at institutional reform, enhancing teaching and learning, improving access and life long learning and enabling the development of fourth level activity. It is estimated that payments under the Fund to institutions by the end of this year will amount to some €30 million.

The Deputy will appreciate that in the context of the current Budgetary process, it is not appropriate for me to comment on the status of any specific funding programme. The Deputy will appreciate that this is in line with standard Budget procedure and should not infer any implication in respect of the fund referred to.

Capitation Grants.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

522 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans to alleviate the funding crisis in primary schools; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a need to increase the capitation grant to €356 per pupil; if he expects this increase to be granted in budget 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33707/08]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

523 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the increasing reliance of primary schools upon non-State organisations such as the Catholic Church to meet the shortfalls in essential funding caused by the failure to raise the capitation grant to adequate levels; his plans to reduce this reliance on non-State funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33708/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 522 and 523 together.

The scope for any increases in the capitation grant for primary schools has to be considered in the context of Government budgetary policy and the overall economic climate.

My Department is aware of the funding pressures on schools. However, it is important to recognise that progress has been made in recent years that has seen the primary school capitation grant increased from €81.26 per pupil in 2000 to its current rate of €178.58. This represents an increase of almost 120% in the standard rate of capitation grant since 2000. The compares to a cumulative increase in the Consumer Price Index between 2000 and the end of 2007 of about 30%.

In 2008 alone the Department has paid around €167m to primary schools to meet their day to day running costs. The improvements mean that the combined day-to-day funding for primary schools has increased by €21 to €330 per pupil. As a result, a primary school with 300 pupils will receive almost €100,000 to meet their running costs.

Furthermore, enhanced rates of capitation funding are paid in respect of children with special educational needs who attend special schools or special classes attached to mainstream schools. The current rates range from €457 to €880 per pupil — an increase of 42% from the rate in 2006.

I am committed to increasing the funding for primary schools as resources permit.

Early School Leavers.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

524 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the efforts he is making to encourage young teenage parents to stay in school; his views on the issue of introducing a stay-in-school payment where required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33709/08]

For young parents of school-going age, the most pressing issues are considered to be a sensitive response to their needs, appropriate counselling/mentoring and medical assistance, minimal disruption of tuition, and appropriate access to childcare.

Individual circumstances will differ and accordingly, school management practice will vary from case to case. Generally, when it comes to the attention of the school that a pupil is pregnant, the school authorities check to ensure that the girl is receiving appropriate medical assistance and counselling advice. Schools endeavour to be sensitive and understanding to the girl's needs while trying to ensure that her education is not neglected.

Home tuition is provided to pregnant schoolgirls who are absent from school during the later stages of pregnancy or immediately following the birth of a baby when attendance may be impractical. In 2006/07, home tuition was approved for 69 pregnant girls attending post primary schools, while in 2007/08 home tuition was approved for 79 pregnant girls attending post primary schools.

Funding has been committed in 2008 for the education element of 8 Teenage Parenting Support projects as a specific gender element of the School Completion Programme under DEIS in preventing early school leaving among teenage mothers. Approximately, 1000 young parents are targeted by the Teen Parenting Support Programme (TPSP).

Links have been established between local School Completion projects and these 8 Projects, assisted by the SCP National Coordination Team and the Teenage Parenting Support Initiative Coordinators. The aim of these projects is to enable young women who are pregnant and young mothers to stay in second level education and to progress on to third level education or training. The Project does this by providing individual support, information and grinds where necessary. Young people participating in Teen Parenting Support Programmes are targeted in-school, out-of-school and in higher /further education, giving them the opportunity to reach their full potential through continued participation in education and training. This will improve their life opportunities and reduce the likelihood of the young family experiencing poverty and social exclusion and being long-term dependants on state support.

My Department has no plans at present to introduce a stay-in-school payment scheme for teenage parents.

School Transport.

John Perry

Question:

525 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will intercede on behalf of a child (details supplied) in County Sligo to allow them to remain in the school until 3 p.m. when their only school transport leaves from the school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33710/08]

In accordance with the Rules for National Schools, the length of the school day for pupils enrolled in infants or first class may, at the Board of Management's discretion, be reduced by one hour to 4 hours and 40 minutes.

It is acknowledged that particular circumstances may arise whereby the implementation of the shorter day for these pupils can cause difficulties for some parents. Where this arises, my Department would encourage school authorities to engage with parents locally with a view to arriving at a mutually acceptable resolution. I do not propose to intercede in the case referred to by the Deputy as such matters are best dealt with at a local level.

Inquiry into Child Abuse.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

526 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the sum of money budgeted by his Department for the 2008 fiscal year towards the operation of, including awards made by or arising from decisions of, the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse; the budgetary requirements he expects the Commission to require in 2009 and beyond; the details of its work and purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33712/08]

The Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse was established on a statutory basis in May 2000 pursuant to the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse Act 2000.

The broad terms of reference of the Commission are: to afford victims of abuse in childhood an opportunity to tell of the abuse they suffered to a sympathetic and experienced forum; to establish as complete a picture as possible of the causes, nature and extent of the physical and sexual abuse of children in institutions and in other places during the period from 1940 to the present; and to compile a report and publish it to the general public, on the activities and the findings of the Commission, containing recommendations on actions to address the continuing effects of the abuse and actions to be taken to safeguard children from abuse in the future.

It is not, however, the function of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse to make awards to person who may have been abused whilst resident in institutions. This is the function of the Residential Institutions Redress Board or indeed the Courts, depending on the route taken by the former resident.

At this particular point in time, it is estimated that an additional provision in the region of €45 to €55 million may be required to meet the remaining overall costs of the Commission. The 2008 allocation of €18.1 million will meet part of this liability. This should, however, be considered to be a tentative provision given that the Commission has yet to receive and assess a large volume of third party legal costs. Consequently, it is difficult to estimate the final outcome of costs at this time.

Questions Nos. 527 and 528 answered with Question No. 467.

Schools Building Projects.

Finian McGrath

Question:

529 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the timeframe for the announcement that a school (details supplied) in County Leitrim will go to construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33719/08]

The make up and timing of further school bundles in my Department's PPP school building programme will be determined by my Department in consultation with the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA). The issues to be considered in the timing and bundling of these schools include site availability for each school, geographical spread and the estimated total cost of the proposed school bundle.

My Department is examining the feasibility of allowing the school referred to by the Deputy proceed in the 3rd Bundle of school projects to be procured via Public Private Partnership. This examination is nearing completion and I will be making an announcement about the matter as quickly as possible.

Third Level Qualifications.

Enda Kenny

Question:

530 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of students who have graduated from institutes of technology and other third level institutes other than universities with honours degrees at level eight of the National Qualifications Framework for the past five years of available records; the number of students who have graduated from Universities with Honours Degrees at Level Eight of the National Qualifications Framework for the past five years of available records; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33741/08]

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

Institute of Technology Full and Part-time Level 8 Graduates 2002/2003-2006/2007

2002/2003

2003/2004

2004/2005

2005/2006

2006/2007

Institutes of Technology

7,148

7,866

7,504

8,898

8,532

Overall the number of graduates have increased by 19% however the graduates declined by 4% between 2005/2006 and 2006/2007

Universities Full and Part-time Level 8 Graduates 2002/2003-2006/2007

2002/2003

2003/2004

2004/2005

2005/2006

2006/2007

Universities

14,374

15,591*

14,935

15,110

15,998

Overall the number of graduates at level 8 from Universities has increased by 11% since 2002/2003.

Colleges of Education/RCSI and NCAD etc Full and Part-time Level 8 Graduates 2002/2003-2006/2007

2002/2003

2003/2004

2004/2005

2005/2006

2006/2007

RCSI, MI, NCAD, MDEI, SPD, Marino, Froebel, CICE

1,601

1,384**

1,964

2,016

1,917

*2003/2004 data also includes Mary Immaculate College graduates. UL returned their data with MIC data included and there is no way of distinguishing them. In 2002/2003 MIC had 555 graduates.

**DOES NOT CONTAIN Mary Immaculate College data

RCSI: Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland

MI: Mary Immaculate College

NCAD: National College of Art and Design

MDEI: Mater Dei Institute of Education

SPD: St. Patrick's College of Education

Marino: Coláiste Mhuire Marino

Froëbel: Froëbel College of Education

CICE: Church of Ireland College of Education

The number of graduates from other colleges increased by 20%.

Schools Building Projects.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

531 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that children in a school (details supplied) in County Galway have rain falling on their heads in their classrooms; and the action he will take regarding the situation. [33743/08]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

532 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a school (details supplied) in County Galway is 109 years old, is in a state of disrepair and that a recent grant of €20,000 for repairs does not address the need to replace the school with a fit for purpose new building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33744/08]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

533 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will visit a school (details supplied) in County Galway and see the condition of the century old building in which pupils and teachers must learn and teach; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33745/08]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

534 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will agree to meet persons (details supplied) in relation to a school in County Galway. [33746/08]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

535 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to a school (details supplied) in County Galway. [33747/08]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

537 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a school (details supplied) in County Galway is regularly flooded due to leaking roofs, windows and so on. [33749/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 531 to 535, inclusive, and Question No. 537 together.

An application for capital funding towards the provision of a new school building was received in April 2008 from the school referred to by the Deputy.

In June, a senior architect from my Department's Planning and Building Unit visited the school and, as a result, an amount of €26,862 was sanctioned to carry out remedial works on the school. The information provided by the school in its application and in subsequent correspondence, together with the technical visit referred to, gives my Department sufficient information to assess the school's needs in the context of all applications for capital funding currently under consideration.

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.

Special Educational Needs.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

536 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps he will take to ensure there is adequate space for a school (details supplied) in County Galway to cater for a pupil with ADHD and Asperger’s syndrome; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33748/08]

An application for capital funding towards the provision of a new school building was received in April 2008 from the school referred to by the Deputy. However, my Department has not received an application for additional accommodation specific to the pupil referred to by the Deputy.

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.

Question No. 537 answered with Question No. 531.

Michael McGrath

Question:

538 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if a child (details supplied) in County Cork qualifies for resource hours. [33799/08]

I understand that the child referred to by the Deputy is enrolled in a special class for pupils with speech and language disorder. Such classes operate at a pupil teacher ratio of 7:1. In view of this significant support, additional individual resource hours are not provided. An enhanced capitation grant is paid in respect of each pupil enrolled in these classes. The Health Service Executive funds the provision of speech and language therapy services for the children attending these classes.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Denis Naughten

Question:

539 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 626 of 8 July 2008 the breakdown of the figures requested; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33801/08]

The class size data for primary schools for 2007/08 which the Deputy requested has now been compiled in my Department and is set out in the following table. The statistics for 2007/08 show that there were 309,595 pupils in classes of between 20 and 29 pupils. There were almost 64,902 pupils in classes of less than 20 pupils and there were 95,773 pupils in classes of 30 or more.

Number of pupils by class size range by county (2007/2008)

0-19

20-24

25-29

30-34

35-39

40 +

Sum

Pupils

Pupils

Pupils

Pupils

Pupils

Pupils

Carlow

364

1,509

2,724

1,554

36

6,187

Cavan

1,288

2,456

3,160

1,297

247

8,448

Clare

1,963

3,411

4,245

2,480

359

41

12,499

Cork City

3,008

4,013

4,234

2,316

144

13,715

Cork County

4,293

9,948

14,652

9,611

1,079

39,583

Donegal

3,300

4,784

6,399

3,403

179

18,065

Dublin City

8,912

11,991

13,159

6,901

181

42

41,186

Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown

1,447

3,167

7,406

3,588

15,608

Fingal

1,109

4,344

15,727

6,027

106

27,313

Galway City

1,298

1,725

1,925

1,245

6,193

Galway County

4,008

5,709

5,856

2,922

248

18,743

Kerry

2,284

4,961

5,328

2,369

144

15,086

Kildare

1,049

4,939

12,452

5,798

250

24,488

Kilkenny

1,111

2,472

4,119

1,844

250

9,796

Laois

866

2,340

3,411

1,431

71

8,119

Leitrim

867

773

1,321

245

74

3,280

Limerick City

1,345

1,607

2,274

1,163

6,389

Limerick County

1,816

3,304

5,479

3,111

325

14,035

Longford

862

1,197

1,669

467

36

4,231

Louth

1,424

3,440

6,187

3,280

146

14,477

Mayo

3,506

3,293

4,794

1,958

107

80

13,738

Meath

1,361

5,107

8,896

4,954

396

40

20,754

Monaghan

1,043

1,725

2,517

1,136

140

6,561

Offaly

969

3,235

3,658

1,317

141

9,320

Roscommon

1,629

1,974

2,195

877

6,675

Sligo

1,127

2,218

2,237

915

251

6,748

South Dublin

3,922

6,873

12,443

4,670

141

28,049

Tipperary N.R.

1,221

2,791

2,487

1,198

107

7,804

Tipperary S.R.

1,584

2,718

3,670

1,440

176

9,588

Waterford City

585

1,299

2,671

1,193

5,748

Waterford County

872

2,088

2,824

1,273

142

7,199

Westmeath

1,224

3,088

4,087

1,372

71

9,842

Wexford

1,749

4,570

6,879

2,779

287

16,264

Wicklow

1,496

3,280

6,161

3,314

288

14,539

Total

64,902

122,349

187,246

89,448

6,122

203

470,270

Schools Building Projects.

Pat Breen

Question:

540 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 734 of 17 June 2008, when a technical assessment will be carried out for a school (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33816/08]

The development of a building project for the school in question is at an early stage, and will require a technical inspection before a final schedule of accommodation can be agreed. My Department wrote to the Chief Executive Officer of Co Clare VEC in July of this year informing him that it is not in a position to organise a technical inspection of the school at this time due to demands for higher priority projects.

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 further progression of the project at this time.

School Staffing.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

541 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science when he proposes to commence discussions with the relevant parties to establish a forum, including the Department of Finance, IMPACT, SIPTU and the employer bodies in connection with school secretaries and caretakers with a view to establishing by the end of 2008 the factual position in schools regarding terms and conditions and commencing in late 2008 discussions on the proposal of the unions that an interim minimum wage should be established at an early stage and discussing during 2009 the manner in which the terms and conditions could be determined and the timetable for the application of revised terms that may be agreed; the appropriate arrangements for resolution of the disagreement that may arise between the parties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33819/08]

The arrangements referred to by the Deputy are to apply as part of the new draft Partnership Agreement. Some preliminary work has been undertaken and discussions will commence on ratification of the Agreement.

Schools Building Projects.

Willie Penrose

Question:

542 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science the position of an application in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Longford; if steps will be taken to progress same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33825/08]

An application for capital funding towards the provision of a new school building has been received from the school referred to by the Deputy.

The commencement and progression of all large-scale building projects, 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.

Grant Payments.

Michael Creed

Question:

543 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Education and Science if, due to the exceptional family circumstances, he will review a home tuition grant for a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33827/08]

I can confirm that the application in question is currently under consideration and a response will issue shortly.

Special Educational Needs.

John Deasy

Question:

544 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Waterford has been without the services of a special education needs organiser for some months and that people are having difficulty accessing the service due to the phone messaging service being full; the action he will take to ensure that another SENO is appointed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33836/08]

The appointment and assignment of Special Educational Needs Organisers is a matter for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE). I have arranged for this issue to be brought to the attention of relevant officials in the NCSE and have requested that they respond to the Deputy directly in relation to his concerns.

School Transport.

Ulick Burke

Question:

545 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Education and Science the reasoning behind the withdrawal by Bus Éireann of a bus route servicing second level schools in Loughrea, Castledaly and Kilchreest, County Galway and replacing the route with a service which has later collection times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33948/08]

Bus Éireann operates the school transport service on behalf of my Department. Routes are planned in such a way to ensure that, as far as possible, eligible pupils have a reasonable standard of service with regard to pick-up points and travel and waiting times, while at the same time, ensuring that school transport vehicles are fully utilised in the most efficient and cost effective manner.

My Department has been advised by Bus Éireann and the Transport Liaison Officer for Co. Galway that the combined travel and waiting times for the pupils referred to by the Deputy remain within the general guidelines of the School Transport Scheme.

Grant Payments.

Bobby Aylward

Question:

546 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason he has discontinued home tuition to a child (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will restore the home tuition to this child. [33958/08]

Officials in my Department are currently liaising with the parents of this child and the National Council for Special Education regarding sourcing a school based placement. In the interim, my Department have confirmed to the parents of the child in question that home tuition funding is available.

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