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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 12 Nov 2008

Vol. 667 No. 1

Written Answers.

The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 13, inclusive, answered orally.
Questions Nos. 14 to 81, inclusive, resubmitted.
Questions Nos. 82 to 92, inclusive, answered orally.

Road Traffic Offences.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

93 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Transport his views on alcohol drink driver offender legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39906/08]

Legislation was introduced in the Road Traffic Act 2006 to provide for an appropriate form of roadside Mandatory Alcohol Testing (MAT). Since its introduction, gardaí have been operating 30,000 MAT checkpoints per month, thereby increasing the risk of being breathalysed. As a consequence, there has been a noticeable downward trend in the number of deaths and collisions on our roads since August 2006.

This downward trend, which has continued into this year, was achieved despite the fact there has been a 40 per cent increase in the number of drivers and a 70 per cent increase in the number of vehicles on our roads over the period from 1997 to 2007.

According to the European Road Safety Performance Index (PIN) programme, which is run by the European Transport Safety Council, (ETSC), Ireland is now ranked in the top ten best performing EU countries for road safety performance.

Automatic disqualification from driving applies to all drink driving convictions but the minimum period of disqualification varies depending on the alcohol levels in individual cases and on whether the conviction relates to a first or a subsequent offence.

The Road Traffic Act 2006 also provides for the introduction of significant changes in relation to the minimum periods of disqualification following a conviction for intoxicated driving offences.

Transport Infrastructure.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

94 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport his views on the report from the World Economic Forum that the quality of the air transport infrastructure here dropped to 46th place internationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39955/08]

Enda Kenny

Question:

99 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Transport his views on the report from the World Economic Forum that the quality of the roads here has dropped ten places to 70th overall; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39959/08]

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

128 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Transport his views on the report from the World Economic Forum that Ireland has dropped from 55th in 2007 to 64th out of 134 nations in 2008 in the quality of overall infrastructure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39962/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 94, 99 and 128 together.

The findings of the report cited by the Deputy do not reflect the high level of investment in transport infrastructure in recent years.

The Government has regularly acknowledged the deficit that exists in the country's transport infrastructure and has set out, over a number of years, to address this deficit through the provision of substantial funding and the implementation of strategic programmes. Over the past decade and more, we have had to tackle the twin challenges of addressing past underinvestment and phenomenal growth in transport demand, matching overall growth in the economy.

This has been very much the case with regard to air infrastructure and especially the infrastructure at Dublin Airport. The Government is aware that in recent years the travel experience at Dublin Airport has been falling short of that experienced in other top class international airports, primarily because of capacity constraints.

With the backing of the Government a major capital investment programme to improve, expand and modernise Dublin Airport is currently being implemented by the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA). Under the ten-year programme DAA is investing €2 billion in new and improved facilities to create a much better airport for its customers.

The major elements of that programme consist of improvements and expansions to the existing terminal, the construction of a new Terminal Two and the construction of a second runway to cater for increased aviation demand for the long run.

The position with the other two main airports is that a new terminal was completed at Cork Airport in 2006. This has the capacity to cater for an expansion of passenger numbers from its current level of about 3 million to 5 million a year. As regards Shannon Airport, it continues to operate well within its infrastructural capacity.

Major investments have been made in the past ten years in the national road network and the major inter-urban road programme linking Dublin with the other cities is now well advanced and on target for completion in 2010. The implementation of national roads projects, including the construction and maintenance of such roads, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Act 1993 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. The National Development Plan also provides for substantial levels of investment in regional and local roads.

Since the late 1990s, we have for the first time begun to invest seriously in public transport. Transport 21 is a very concrete acknowledgement by the Government of the need to invest in our transport infrastructure. Unique among capital programmes, it provides a ten year commitment to a very high level of investment in national roads, public transport and regional airports.

Notwithstanding the current difficult economic climate, this Government is committed to continuing investment in the national transport infrastructure. This is reflected in the provision in the 2009 Estimates of €2.4 billion for Transport 21 and €478 million for regional and local roads.

Road Traffic Offences.

Joan Burton

Question:

95 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Transport when he will introduce legislative, or other measures, to ensure that both Irish and foreign registered vehicles are subject to all of the same laws, regulations, toll charges and penalties and that all fines or penalties accrued by a driver of a foreign registered vehicle are collected; the percentage of road traffic offences that are not processed due to the vehicle in question being a foreign registered vehicle; the progress that has been made on developing a system of mutual recognition of penalty points across the EU; the reason he opposed mutual recognition at the EU Council of Ministers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39852/08]

Deirdre Clune

Question:

133 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Transport his proposals to deal with out of State drivers who drive above the speed limits here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39905/08]

Joe Carey

Question:

139 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Transport the outcome of cross-Border discussions in relation to enforcement of penalty points; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39902/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 95, 133 and 139 together.

The enforcement on foreign registered drivers of penalties for road traffic offences is a complex legal and administrative matter for many States, and my Department is pursuing this question at European, British/Irish and North/South levels.

We are working with the United Kingdom with the objective of having a bilateral agreement on mutual recognition of driving disqualifications in place early next year, under the framework of the relevant EU Convention.

The mutual recognition of penalty points is however a longer term and much more difficult matter. In particular it involves complex legal issues and will probably require the passage of primary legislation both here and in the United Kingdom in due course. While both jurisdictions are working on this, it will be some time before a bilateral agreement can be put in place on this particular issue.

In the meantime, although foreign licence holders do not have an Irish driving licence record, a separate record of any penalty points incurred by them in this State is kept in the National Driver File. When the necessary arrangements are in place in relation to mutual recognition, this data will then be available for enforcement arrangements. Statistics in relation to road traffic offences that are not processed, due to the vehicle in question being a foreign registered vehicle, is a matter for the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Garda Síochána.

A proposal for a Directive on enforcement in the field of road safety is currently being discussed at Council Working Group level. This proposal does not relate to the mutual recognition of penalty points across the EU.

Ireland was just one of many Member States that indicated, at the recent EU Council of Ministers meeting, that it has difficulties with the draft Directive. Further proposals are being examined at present in an attempt to overcome these difficulties.

All drivers are subject to road traffic law and enforcement is a matter for An Garda Síochána. The realisation of any fines or penalties imposed by the Courts is a matter for the Courts Service.

Road Safety.

Catherine Byrne

Question:

96 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Transport if he will introduce testing for prescription drugs such as benzodiazepines for drivers involved in accidents as recommended (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39899/08]

Richard Bruton

Question:

111 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Transport when he will introduce compulsory testing of drivers for intoxicants at the scene of collisions as promised by him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39895/08]

Jack Wall

Question:

167 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Transport when he will introduce legislation to ensure the mandatory testing of all drivers involved in serious road collisions; the reason there has been a delay in introducing this legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39849/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 96, 111 and 167 together.

The Road Traffic Acts provide that a member of the Garda Síochána may, where he or she is of the opinion that a person in charge of a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place is under the influence of a drug or drugs to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of that vehicle, require that person to go to a Garda station and further require that person to submit to a blood test or to provide a urine sample.

The current position regarding the testing of drivers for alcohol, at the scene of collisions, is that a member of An Garda Síochána may require a driver involved in a collision to provide a preliminary breath specimen. This discretion is provided in acknowledgement of the fact that urgent medical attention for seriously injured victims must take precedence over breath testing.

The Road Traffic Acts also place an obligation on a person to provide a blood or urine sample in a hospital. This applies where an event occurs involving a vehicle which results in a person being injured, or a person claiming or appearing to have been injured, where the person is admitted to or attends a hospital, and a member of the Garda is of the opinion that, at the time of the event, the person had consumed an intoxicant. An intoxicant includes alcohol and drugs or any combination of alcohol and drugs.

Following the advice of the Attorney General on possible amendments to legislation, which continue to take overriding medical circumstances into account, this issue is included in the General Scheme of a Road Traffic and Transport Bill, which was recently approved for drafting by the Government.

There is no feasible basis as yet in Ireland or in Europe for the introduction of a preliminary roadside test for drugs, such as at the scene of a road traffic collision, as testing devices are still in the prototype stages. However, the Medical Bureau of Road Safety is keeping abreast of developments in this area and is keeping me informed on the matter.

Rail Network.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

97 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Transport the estimated completion dates for the full Navan rail line and western rail corridor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39838/08]

Transport 21 provides for the re-opening of the Western Rail Corridor on a phased basis in the period to 2015. Work on the line between Ennis and Athenry is due for completion in May 2009.

Planning and design work on phases 2 (Athenry — Tuam) and 3 (Tuam — Claremorris) is a matter for Iarnród Éireann as part of its Transport 21 programme.

Transport 21 provides for the development of the Navan Rail Link on a phased basis in the period to 2015. Work is due to get under way shortly on the Clonsilla — Dunboyne section (Phase 1) and is due for completion in 2010. The current position regarding the Dunboyne — Navan section (Phase 2) is that a scoping study has been completed and Iarnród Éireann is now proceeding to undertake a feasibility study on the 2 alternative routes identified in the scoping study.

The start and completion dates of Transport 21 projects in planning, such as phases 2 and 3 of the Western Rail Corridor and phase 2 of the Navan Rail Link, will be determined by the funding allocation available during the current difficult economic climate.

Road Safety.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

98 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport his strategy to tackle drug driving; the reforms he is planning to strengthen the testing regime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39974/08]

Driving under the influence of intoxicants, drugs as well as alcohol, is one of many key issues in road safety, and the testing of drivers in relation to drugs is already provided for in the Road Traffic Acts.

A member of the Garda Síochána, where he or she is of the opinion that a person in charge of a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place is under the influence of a drug or drugs to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of that vehicle, may require that person to go to a Garda station and further require that person to submit to a blood test or to provide a urine sample.

While the Medical Bureau of Road Safety (MBRS) is keeping abreast of developments in the area of preliminary roadside testing for drugs, as there is no feasible basis as yet in Ireland or in Europe for such testing, the General Scheme of a Road Traffic and Transport Bill, which was recently approved for drafting by the Government, includes measures to assist the Gardaí in the enforcement of drug driving.

My colleague, the Minister for Health, in collaboration with the Road Safety Authority, recently launched a new road safety leaflet aimed at medicines and the driver. The new leaflet highlights the issues of driving and medication.

Question No. 99 answered with Question No. 94.

Driver Licences.

Ulick Burke

Question:

100 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Transport if he will limit inexperienced drivers to smaller engine cars as recommended by the Road Safety Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39897/08]

Seán Barrett

Question:

107 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the proposed graduated driving licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39892/08]

Mary Upton

Question:

124 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Transport when he plans to introduce legislation to facilitate the full operation of the graduated driver licensing scheme; the measures this legislation will contain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39846/08]

Pat Breen

Question:

144 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Transport the proposed restrictions he will impose on motorists driving for the first two years after passing the driving test as recommended by the Road Safety Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39894/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 100, 107, 124 and 144 together.

The Road Safety Strategy 2007-2012 outlines a range of measures to be considered in relation to a Graduated Driver Licensing System for application to learner drivers and in the first two years after acquiring a full driving licence. The driver licensing regulations, which were made in October 2007, providing for the introduction of a learner permit to replace the provisional licence and some other measures were the first step in the introduction of a Graduated Driver Licensing System.

The other measures outlined in the Strategy for consideration, such as applying a restricted engine capacity to car learner permit holders and in the first two years after acquiring a full driving licence, would require the enactment of either primary legislation, secondary legislation or a combination of both primary and secondary legislation. A progressive roll-out of appropriate measures is envisaged as the most practical approach for implementing the Graduated Driver Licensing System. These measures will be considered by me on the basis of proposals received from the Road Safety Authority.

The Road Safety Authority is currently preparing a consultation paper for issue shortly in which it will be seeking the views of stakeholders and the public on the application of further graduated driving licensing measures to learner drivers and to drivers in the first two years after acquiring a full driving licence. I look forward to receiving from the Road Safety Authority in due course the proposals which will emerge from that process.

Rural Transport Services.

Jack Wall

Question:

101 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Transport the funding allocated to the rural transport initiative in each of the past three years; his plans to expand the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33505/08]

My Department provided €5.1 million for the pilot Rural Transport Initiative in 2006, €9.0 million for the Rural Transport Programme in 2007 and will provide €10m for 2008.

Pobal, which administers the RTP on behalf of my Department, is developing the Programme on a phased basis in consultation with individual RTP groups, with a goal of achieving nation-wide coverage in due course in line with Government policy. It is planned that by end-2008, RTP groups will be operational in every county and will be working towards maximising coverage in their operational areas. For 2009, funding of €11m is available.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

102 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Transport the progress made on the promise in the programme for Government to plan and deliver strategies for the future development of integrated public transport, in co-operation with the relevant local authorities, by conducting integrated transport and land use plans in the spatial strategy hubs immediately taking into account both current and future needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39932/08]

The commitment to plan and deliver strategies for the future development of integrated public transport in cooperation with the relevant local authorities included two provisions — the preparation of integrated transport and land use plans for the NSS Hubs and the completion of feasibility studies into light rail transit (LRT) systems for Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford. As regards these latter studies, I have asked that they also take into consideration the feasibility of bus rapid transit (BRT).

The local authorities are making good progress on the light rail/bus rapid transit studies. The Cork study is nearing completion and consultants will be appointed shortly to carry out the other studies. My Department has had preliminary consultations with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and with the City and County Managers Association about the preparation of integrated transport and land use plans for the NSS Hubs and also for those NSS Gateways, which currently do not have land use and transport strategies in place. The proposed Sustainable Travel and Transport Action Plan will include provisions in relation to the alignment of spatial planning and transport planning and will provide a policy context within which to proceed with the preparation of land use and transport strategies for the Hubs and for the remaining Gateways.

Traffic Management.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

103 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Transport the progress to date in extending traffic calming measures here as promised in the programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39930/08]

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme element of Transport 21. The implementation of individual national road projects, including the provision of traffic calming measures, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Act, 1993 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

I understand from the NRA that they are about to publish the findings of a survey carried out on the effectiveness of traffic calming measures in the period 1997 to 2002. The report compares road traffic collision data for the four years before and after the provision of traffic calming. Overall, the figures show a welcome reduction in both the number and severity of collisions where traffic calming was provided.

Road Safety.

Sean Sherlock

Question:

104 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Transport if he has reviewed recent figures from the European Transport Safety Council noting that road mortality rates decreased by more than 8% faster in Dublin than in the rest of the country; if he is planning to introduce measures to address this anomaly; if he will initiate an audit of road surfaces across Ireland to identify and repair potentially dangerous road surfaces; if he plans to introduce legislation to penalise any local authority or specific personnel for non-compliance with road safety standards at roadworks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39862/08]

I am pleased with the progress being achieved, by all the agencies concerned, in respect of reducing fatalities nationally from road traffic accidents. I am satisfied with the roles being performed by the National Roads Authority and the local authorities in respect of identifying roads where safety is an issue and implementing road improvements. I have no plans to initiate an audit of road surfaces or to propose new legislative measures in this area. I have no function in relation to the Health and Safety Authority.

Cycle Facilities.

Liz McManus

Question:

105 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Transport when he will publish his new national cycling strategy; the measures the new strategy will contain; the way he will reach his stated target of 20% of all trips by bicycle by 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39841/08]

Noel Coonan

Question:

151 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Transport the progress to date on the provision promised in the programme for Government for a Dublin coast walk and cycle route in order to reduce road deaths; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39908/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 105 and 151 together.

It is my intention to bring the National Cycle Policy to Government by the end of the current year, with publication as soon as possible thereafter. The policy will outline an integrated and wide-ranging suite of measures which will aim to develop a culture of cycling in Ireland by 2020, with 10% of all trips by bike in line with my previously stated aim. In so far as the Sutton to Sandycove Cycle Route is concerned, the provision of this route is a matter for the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

I recognise the value of the project in the contexts of road safety and the promotion of a culture of cycling and, as announced by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in the recent Carbon Budget, I will assist my colleague in delivering a special cycling package for Dublin in 2009 to include funding for work on the city centre portion of the proposed Sutton to Sandycove Cycle Route.

Taxi Regulations.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

106 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Transport his views on the proposed taxi sharing scheme. [40033/08]

My Department has yet to receive any proposals with regard to any taxi sharing scheme.

In any case, the Commission for Taxi Regulation was established under the Taxi Regulation Act 2003 and is now the independent public body responsible for the development and maintenance of the regulatory framework of the control and operation of small public service vehicles, i.e. taxis, hackneys and limousines, and their drivers. The issue raised in the Deputy's question relates to the day-to-day responsibilities and actions of the Commission for Taxi Regulation in accordance with its principal function and objectives under the 2003 Act.

Question No. 107 answered with Question No. 100.

Public Transport Accidents.

Kieran O'Donnell

Question:

108 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Transport his views on adding investigating accidents resulting in death on public transport to the remit of the Safety Commission that will incorporate air, rail and marine as announced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39982/08]

The investigation of public transport accidents other than those occurring in air, rail and maritime modes of transport is the responsibility of An Garda Síochána. I have no proposals to change this arrangement in the context of the amalgamation of accident investigation functions as announced in Budget 2009.

Road Network.

Brian Hayes

Question:

109 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Transport the list of key road schemes which will be deferred due to budget 2009 cuts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39945/08]

Joe Costello

Question:

132 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Transport the impact of budget 2009 cutbacks on the roads programme; the priority road schemes; his views on what should be the priority projects in the roads programme until 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter [39834/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 109 and 132 together.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme element of Transport 21. The implementation of individual national road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Act 1993 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

Under Transport 21, a budget of €1.44 billion has been allocated to the NRA for 2009. The focus for the year will continue to be on the delivery of the Major Inter-urban routes (MIUs), which are on target for completion by 2010. I understand from the NRA that they are currently in the process of drawing up their programme of works for next year based on their allocation of €1.44 billion. It would be inappropriate to comment on specific projects pending the outcome of that exercise.

The 2009 Budget for national roads, while somewhat smaller than 2008, is still a significant amount and is a reflection of this Government's continued commitment to maintaining investment in transport infrastructure and services at a high level. Clearly, however, the start and completion dates of national road projects which have not yet commenced will be determined by the funding allocation available during the current economic climate.

Sustainable Transport.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

110 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Transport if, in view of the decrease in motor sales over the past number of months, he has reviewed or altered his estimates for transport emissions in the short to medium term; if the drop in car sales will affect the measures aimed at combating rising transport emissions in the forthcoming sustainable travel and transport action plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39860/08]

Emmet Stagg

Question:

138 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Transport when the sustainable transport and travel action plan will be published; the key themes and measures proposed; if he is revising the plan in the context of the economic downturn and programme of cutbacks outlined in budget 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39859/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 110 and 138 together.

It is my intention to bring the Sustainable Travel and Transport Action Plan to Government before the end of the current year, with publication as soon as possible thereafter. It is clear, at this stage, that the Plan will need to focus on areas such as — actions to reduce dependence on private car and to encourage smarter travel, actions to ensure that alternatives to car use are available through improving public transport, cycling and walking facilities, actions aimed at improving fuel efficiency of motorised transport, and actions aimed at strengthening institutional arrangements.

I recognise that there has been a change in economic circumstances since the publication in February 2008 of the consultation document "2020 Vision — Sustainable Travel and Transport" and that lower economic growth will lead to lower growth in transport emissions. This will be taken into account in the Sustainable Travel and Transport Action Plan.

Moving towards a sustainable travel and transport system will require a long-term programme of action and it is my view that such a programme must be adopted at the earliest possible time.

Question No. 111 answered with Question No. 96.

Road Network.

John Deasy

Question:

112 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Transport the progress to date in the preparation for the delivery of the Leinster outer orbital route as promised in the programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39929/08]

As the Deputy will be aware, as Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in respect of the national roads programme element of Transport 21. The implementation of individual national road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Act 1993 in conjunction with the relevant local authorities.

In 2007, the NRA completed an updated feasibility study, which built on an earlier 2001 study, which considered in particular the costs and benefits of what has become known as the Leinster Orbital Route.

The updated NRA study, a copy of which was forwarded to my Department in March 2007, concluded that the Leinster Orbital Route linking Drogheda, Navan, Trim and Naas is strategically beneficial for the region in terms of strengthening the links between key development centres, assisting the economic development of these centres and improving the overall regional transport network.

Neither Transport 21 nor the National Development Plan provides any funding for such a scheme to be constructed in the period to 2015. The Government has already made it clear, under Transport 21, that priorities for the roads investment programme after the completion of the major interurban network in 2010, will be the Atlantic Road Corridor as well as the improvement of other key national primary routes and the targeted improvement of certain national secondary routes.

The Minister for Finance has indicated his determination to seek to avoid any diminution in the capital provisions already made in the period to 2015 notwithstanding the current economic difficulties. I would, however, like to make it clear that in this economic climate, further progress on long term projects such as this one will only be possible as and when resources become available.

The Leinster Orbital Route proposal remains an important potential element of our longer-term infrastructure development. My Department will continue to liaise with the roads and planning authorities concerned to ensure that route options are preserved free of impediment for this potential project.

Departmental Transport.

Frank Feighan

Question:

113 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Transport the public transport services used by his officials since 2007 to date in 2008 on official business; the cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39939/08]

The cost of public transport services used by officials in my Department in 2007 was €32,699 and to date in 2008 is €30,708. The breakdown of this figure into individual modes of transport is not readily available.

State Airports.

Willie Penrose

Question:

114 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Transport if he is planning proceed with the proposed separation of Dublin, Cork and Shannon Airports; if he has finalised and agreed to the business plans for each airport; when the final separation will take place; his views on recent changes to the board of Cork Airport Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39863/08]

Under the State Airports Act 2004, the boards of Cork and Shannon airports are required to prepare business plans for eventual separation.

All three airport business plans have to be coordinated 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.

On 5 November I was very pleased to be able to appoint persons of the calibre of Mr. Gerry Walsh, as Chairman, and Mr. Dick Lehane and Ms. Annette McNamara to the board of the Cork Airport Authority. They each bring different skills and experience to the work of the board of the Cork Airport Authority and I am confident that all three will make very valuable contributions to the future of Cork Airport.

With the appointment of the Chair and Members of the Cork Board I now expect to be in a position to finalise my decisions in relation to the Airports Business Plans.

Port Development.

Mary Upton

Question:

115 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Transport when he will publish his report on the future of Dublin Port; what he intends to recommend for the future location and size of Dublin Port; if any of the measures in the report will require new legislation; if he is liaising with the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government on proposals for Dublin Port and bay; if he has made or will be making a submission on the proposed reclamation of 21 hectares at Dublin Port; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39865/08]

My Department has commissioned Indecon International Economic Consultants to undertake a comprehensive study of the role of Dublin Port as provided for under the National Development Plan 2007-2013.

This study will examine the feasibility and conduct a cost-benefit analysis of various scenarios relating to Dublin Port, including:

Existing port activities continuing to expand with demand,

Relocating all or part of Dublin Port's existing activities to an alternative location(s),

Port activities continuing at current levels with growth being catered for at alternative locations. Work on the Dublin Port study is progressing well and I expect a final report for my consideration in early 2009.

I have and continue to liaise closely with the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government with regard to Dublin Port. The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government is represented on the Steering Group of the Dublin Port Study. In turn my Department is represented on the Dublin Bay Task Force, established by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government under the chairmanship of the Dublin Regional Authority.

In relation to the recent planning application by Dublin Port Company to An Bord Pleanála, the strategic infrastructure planning regulations list a number of "prescribed bodies" which must be informed of any applications. In relation to this particular application, the Minister for Transport is such a prescribed body and I received a copy of the application. My Department has written to An Bord Pleanála updating the Board on the progress of the Dublin Port Study.

Under the strategic planning regulations, the Board must seek further consultations from prescribed bodies in certain circumstances and as such I may be consulted further on the matter.

Public Transport.

Shane McEntee

Question:

116 Deputy Shane McEntee asked the Minister for Transport if he will expedite new bus licensing legislation to allow for greater competition in order to bring down the State subsidy for CIE; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39964/08]

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

119 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport when he will introduce new and updated bus licensing legislation; if the heads of a Bill to deal with bus licensing have been drawn up or sent to Cabinet for consideration; the provisions the new legislation will contain; his views on ongoing complaints regarding the lack of licensing legislation from CIE and private bus operators; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39842/08]

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

160 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Transport when he will publish the Public Transport Regulation Bill; the proposed heads of this Bill; if the Bill will establish a national transport regulator for the areas not covered by the Dublin Transport Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39844/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 116, 119 and 160 together.

The Agreed Programme for Government includes a commitment to improving bus services under Transport 21 by reforming the bus licensing provisions of the Road Transport Act 1932, to facilitate the optimum provision of services by providing a level playing field for all market participants, both public and private.

The legislative framework to support the authorisation and provision of improved public bus services in the Greater Dublin Area has already been updated through the passage of the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008, which establishes a new contractual structure relating to the provision of subvented bus services in the Greater Dublin Area.

It is my intention that proposals for a new bus licensing regime will be contained in a Public Transport Regulation Bill which will deal with the replacement of the Road Transport Act 1932 and the provisions of the Transport Act 1958 that relate to the provision of bus services by the State bus companies. It is envisaged that the new licensing structure will apply in respect of all commercial bus services, including those provided by Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann, and will encompass provisions relating to the subvented bus market outside the Greater Dublin Area in a manner consistent with EU Regulation No. 1370/2007 on public service obligations and similar to the contractual framework used in the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008.

Until the proposed legislation is enacted, applications for new bus licences and notifications from State bus operators will continue to be processed under the provisions of the Road Transport Act 1932, as amended, and the notification system with reference to the Transport Act 1958, as appropriate.

The Government has committed to examining the need for a National Transport Regulator in the context of the overall review of the economic regulatory environment. As part of the public transport regulatory reform programme, consideration is being given to the establishment of a national transport authority.

The Public Transport Regulation Bill is included in the Government Legislative Programme in the list of Bills that have yet to be approved by Government. It is my intention to seek Government approval to a General Scheme of the Bill before the end of the year with a view to publication in 2009.

Road Safety.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

117 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Transport the reason he has reduced the road safety budget by €4 million; the road safety programmes that will see a decrease in funding for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39833/08]

Tom Hayes

Question:

123 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Transport if he has received communications from the Road Safety Authority regarding the impact of the cuts he has made to its budget; if he expects to cost of driving licences to rise as a result; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39950/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 117 and 123 together.

The Government is allocating €35.6 million to the Road Safety Authority for 2009. While this amount is less than that provided in 2008 (€39.1 million) the 2008 allocation included a provision to reduce the driver testing backlog. This objective was achieved and the RSA is maintaining the driver test waiting time at 10 weeks.

The 2009 level of Exchequer funding coupled with the fee income which the RSA earns will enable the Road Safety Authority to continue implementation of the Road Safety Strategy into 2009 and ensure that reductions in road fatalities secured in recent years are continued.

While my Department provides annual funding to the Road Safety Authority, the allocation of resources to the various programmes is a matter for the Authority itself.

The level of fees for services provided through the Road Safety Authority is a matter for the Road Safety Authority in the first instance.

Public Transport.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

118 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which he has revised or reviewed his capital spending programme with particular reference to Transport 21; if he has issued directives to the National Roads Authority with regard to prioritisation of specific projects; if all projects originally identified are expected to proceed as anticipated and outlined in the national development plan; if it is expected that expenditure will remain on target and the projects within schedule; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39996/08]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

204 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if it is intended to deliver on time and within cost all road development proposals contained in Transport 21; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40346/08]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

205 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if it is his intention to proceed with, as planned and within the time scale identified, all aspects of Transport 21 as incorporated in the national development plan in respect of rail services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40347/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 118, 204 and 205 together.

My priorities for national roads are the completion of the major interurban network by 2010 and the progressive development of the Atlantic Road Corridor. I understand from the NRA that it is currently in the process of drawing up its programme of works for 2009 based on its funding allocation for the year. I cannot comment, therefore, on individual projects pending the outcome of that exercise.

The provision of increased capacity will be a key consideration in determining public transport investment priorities in the period ahead.

The adjustment in capital funding in 2009 will not have a significant effect on the roll out of the Transport 21 public transport programme and will not result in the postponement of the start of construction of any public transport project.

I have also asked the implementing agencies to ensure that they continue planning work on Transport 21 projects so that a shelf of work is ready to start as resources become available.

The start and completion dates of national roads and public transport projects, which have not yet commenced, will be determined by the funding allocation available during the current difficult economic climate. The commencement dates for these projects will also be influenced by the time taken for public consultation, the relevant statutory process and the procurement and contract award processes.

Question No. 119 answered with Question No. 116.

Denis Naughten

Question:

120 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Transport when the integrated ticketing project will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39601/08]

Simon Coveney

Question:

148 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Transport the progress to date on integrated ticketing; the costs involved to date; the expected launch dates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39911/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 120 and 148 together.

A smart card for public transport services in the GDA is available on Luas services. In recent months all buses in the Dublin Bus fleet have been fitted with smart card validators. Smart cards are now in use on these buses in respect of a number of ticket products such as annual and monthly bus tickets, annual and monthly integrated bus and rail tickets and 5-day rambler tickets.

From late next year, a single smart card will be introduced for ticket products on Dublin Bus and Luas services. This smart card will also have an electronic purse capability for use on both services.

This system will then be extended to Irish Rail DART and commuter rail services within a further 12 months, and Bus Éireann on a pilot basis on a number of its commuter routes. It is also envisaged that private bus operators will join the scheme over this timeframe. The new gating systems at Irish Rail stations in the GDA have been designed to handle the new smart card.

A total of €14.7 million has been paid out by the Exchequer on integrated ticketing since the inception of the project in 2002. This expenditure encompasses project management, design and development costs and operator contributions.

The Project is being rolled out progressively in line with international experience. The Chairman of the Integrated Ticketing Project Board has told me good progress is being made and that, while there are significant issues to be resolved, all parties are working together to see the scheme delivered in line with project timescales.

Traffic Management.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

121 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding contingency plans for the major infrastructural works due to commence in Dublin for metro north, the Luas link-up and the Dublin rail interconnector in order to minimise the potential massive disruption to commuters, residents and local businesses; when he last met with Dublin City Council and all relevant stakeholders on the big dig; when he will start a public information and awareness campaign on the big dig; the major traffic change that will be made in April 2009 or later in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39866/08]

As I have indicated previously, pending the establishment of the Dublin Transport Authority, the Dublin City Manager chairs the Dublin Transport 21 Implementation Group which co-ordinates and oversees the investment programme in Dublin. The Group comprises the chief executives of the principal implementing agencies, an Assistant Secretary from my Department, the Fingal County Manager, the Director of Traffic and representatives of the Garda Síochána and business associations.

Two sub-groups have been established and the business community is represented on both.

The Contingency Planning Group is overseeing the preparation by Dublin City Council of a traffic management strategy for the Transport 21 construction phase, focused particularly on the city centre. This strategy will take account of other construction activity by local authorities, public bodies and private developers.

The Communications Group is preparing a co-ordinated communications strategy for the construction period of major Transport 21 projects, such as Metro North and the Interconnector. The theme of this strategy will be "Dublin is open for business".

In addition, Dublin City Council is holding focus meetings with the City Centre business community while the RPA continues to meet individual businesses and residents' organisations along the Metro North preferred alignment to inform them of its plans and seek to address issues of concern. I understand that in early in 2009 a multi-agency joint strategy, including a public information and awareness campaign, will be rolled out.

I hold regular quarterly meetings with the Transport 21 implementing agencies, An Garda Síochána and business organisations in Dublin to identify the principal concerns of the business community and to review progress on traffic planning for the construction phase of Transport 21 projects. I last met with the Dublin City Centre Stakeholders Group on 29 September 2008. It was agreed at that meeting that the next meeting of the Stakeholders Group will be in January 2009.

Rural Transport Services.

Martin Ferris

Question:

122 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Transport if the rural transport programme has been expanded to wider social groups as recommended in the 2006 discussion paper Progressing Rural Public Transport in Ireland. [40028/08]

Arthur Morgan

Question:

127 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Transport if there are demand-responsive-type taxi systems operating in the rural transport programme. [40034/08]

Michael Ring

Question:

141 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Transport the progress made in relation to the roll-out of the rural transport programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33557/08]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

146 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport the number of car schemes operating under the rural transport programme across the State. [40032/08]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

163 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport the assistance that is being given to rural community transport schemes. [40031/08]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

199 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which he will consider extending the rural transport scheme, with particular reference to the need to facilitate those entitled to free travel but unable to access same due to lack of public transport; the number and location of such schemes already in operation; his proposals to use these as a template in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33564/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 122, 127, 141, 146, 163 and 199 together.

Pobal administers the Rural Transport Programme (RTP) on behalf of my Department and is working with 37 individual rural transport groups around the country to expand it on a phased basis in response to local public transport service needs and having regard to the availability of resources.

While the provision of transport services for older people and people with disabilities is a core feature of the RTP, services operated under the Programme are open to the general public. The Free Travel Scheme of the Department of Social and Family Affairs has been extended to the RTP.

The bottom-up approach developed during the pilot Rural Transport Initiative (2002-2006) demonstrated that local people know best what transport services they need. My role, therefore, continues to be one of facilitator, helping local communities to address their transport needs through financial and administrative support, while communities themselves take the lead in clarifying their needs and developing co-ordinated transport services to fulfil those needs.

I understand that the transport modes utilised by the individual RTP groups vary in accordance with the needs that they are trying to address and can include mini-buses, taxis and private cars. In the latter case, I am advised that RTP funded car schemes are operational in Counties Sligo and Leitrim and that such schemes are being contemplated elsewhere.

The RTP is being expanded on a phased basis in consultation with individual RTP groups, with a goal of achieving nationwide coverage in due course in line with Government policy. It is planned that by end-2008, RTP groups will be operational in every county and will be working towards maximising coverage in their operational areas. A total of €11m is being provided for the programme in 2009.

Question No. 123 answered with Question No. 117.
Question No. 124 answered with Question No. 100.

Road Safety.

Bernard Allen

Question:

125 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Transport if he will make changes to driving disqualifications on foot of fewer penalty points as recommended by the Road Safety Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39886/08]

The threshold for disqualification is 12 points. I have received no recommendation from the Road Safety Authority to reduce this threshold.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

126 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport his views on recent proposals by a group (details supplied) in particular that safe interaction with cyclists should be a mandatory element in all driver instruction programmes and for regulations specifying minimum distances to be kept by drivers when overtaking cyclists. [40029/08]

My Department has received a comprehensive submission from cyclist.ie, the recently formed umbrella group of seven Irish cyclist advocacy groups, in relation to cycling issues. I will bear the group's views in mind in finalising a National Cycle Policy, which I intend to bring to Government before the end of the current year, and in developing an implementation programme.

Question No. 127 answered with Question No. 122.
Question No. 128 answered with Question No. 94.
Question No. 129 answered with Question No. 92.

Light Rail Project.

Michael D'Arcy

Question:

130 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Transport when the construction of metro west which will connect Tallaght and Ballymun through Clondalkin, Liffey Valley and Blanchardstown will commence as promised in the programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39926/08]

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

140 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Transport the estimated commencement of works and completion date for metro west; the estimated commencement of works and completion date for Lucan Luas line F; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39836/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 130 and 140 together.

The emerging preferred route for Metro West was announced by the RPA in July 2007. A further round of consultation is now underway to provide greater definition to certain elements of the route after which the RPA will proceed with the preparation for a Railway Order application to An Bórd Pleanála during 2009.

On the 10th of October 2008, the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) published the emerging preferred route corridor for the Luas line to Lucan (Line F) following extensive public consultation. Having selected the route corridor, the RPA is now undertaking the next phase of consultation with key stakeholders which will feed into the detailed design of the line. Following completion of this work the RPA will submit a Railway Order application to An Bord Pleanála in respect of this line.

The start and completion dates of metro west and Luas Line F will be determined by the outcome of the statutory approval and procurement processes and the funding allocation available during the current difficult economic climate. The provision of increased capacity will be a key priority in determining public transport investment priorities in the period ahead.

Penalty Points System.

Denis Naughten

Question:

131 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Transport his plans to reform the penalty points system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39600/08]

Penalty points were first applied in October 2002 to the offence of speeding and have since been rolled out in stages between then and September 2006 in respect of a total of 36 offences. The focus of the roll-out of the penalty points system to date has been on road safety critical offences that relate primarily to the behaviour of drivers. These include the offence of speeding, driving without insurance, non-wearing of safety belt, careless driving, holding a mobile phone while driving and a range of moving offences.

The remaining scheduled offences to which the penalty point system may be applied relate primarily to offences relating to vehicles and their use, lighting of vehicles and the licensing of drivers. Detection of breaches of these offences continue to be enforced by the Gardaí by means of summons to court.

The progressive extension of the penalty point system will continue to be pursued. There is an Action in the Road Safety Strategy 2007-2012 to expand the range of road safety related offences covered by way of penalty points and administrative fines.

My Department is the lead agency on this Action (which has a completion date of end of Quarter 1 2009) with support from Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Garda Síochána, Courts Service and RSA. Discussions are held with the support agencies regarding the timing of each scheduled roll-out of new offences to ensure that the relevant interfaces are in place between the Garda Síochána and the Court Services IT systems and the National Driving File. The relevant support systems must be put in place to support the extension of the penalty points system, and where applicable, the fixed charge system.

Discussions are not concluded on the operation and extension of the penalty point and fixed charge systems. These discussions will continue over the coming months, with the target date of end Quarter 1 2009 in mind, but it would premature to speculate as to how many of the remaining scheduled offences will be prioritised for penalty points at that time.

Question No. 132 answered with Question No. 109.
Question No. 133 answered with Question No. 95.

Light Rail Project.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

134 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide a full briefing on the operation of the PPP for metro north; the amount of public and private money that will be spent on metro north each year for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39856/08]

The RPA continues to make good progress on the PPP tender process for Metro North. The initial phase of the PPP public procurement process was conducted in 2007 resulting in the formation of four pre-qualified consortia for the purpose of tendering for the project. Tender documentation was formally issued to the four pre-qualified consortia on 12th May 2008. Since then the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) has held a number of meetings with the consortia. Following on from a request from some of the consortia, the RPA recently agreed to extend the closing date for submission of tenders by two months. Receipt of tenders is now required by 6 February 2009.

In addition, good progress is being made in the planning process. The RPA placed copies of the Railway Order application on display on 17 September in accordance with the 6 week statutory public notice requirement pursuant to section 37 of the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001.

In January 2008, the Government approved the funding structure for the Metro North PPP, including an Exchequer provision for advance works ahead of the main PPP contract and a capital contribution during construction. In accordance with the requirements of the Government decision on the Transport 21 Investment Framework, Metro North will be submitted to Government for a final decision on the project on the completion of the tender process.

I am not in a position to give any information in relation to the budget for Metro North project in advance of the completion of the public procurement process. The publication of such commercially sensitive information prior to the completion of the competitive procurement process would prejudice the State's capacity to derive maximum value for money in respect of the project.

Air Services.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

135 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport if he will bring forward legislation to curb potentially misleading advertising in the selling of airline tickets and to enforce the EU decision on this matter of 1 November 2008; if he will bring forward legislation aimed at specifically protecting airline passengers from unjustified charges and fees imposed on the price of an airline ticket; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39855/08]

Regulation (EC) No. 1008/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on common rules for the operation of air services in the Community came into force on the 1st November 2008. This Regulation is directly applicable in all Member States. It sets down common European rules in relation to licensing of air carriers, access to intra-community air routes and transparency of air fares.

Under the Regulation airlines can freely set their fares but specific requirements are set down in relation to the manner in which information on air fares is published. Article 23 of the Regulation stipulates, inter alia, that air fares (for air services from an airport located in a Member State) available to the general public, shall at all times indicate the final price to be paid. On 31 October, I made Statutory Instrument No. 426 of 2008, to give effect to Regulation (EC) No. 1008/2008 and to lay down penalties for non-compliance with Article 23 of the Regulation.

As I indicated to the House in early October (Dáil Question No. 58 of 1st October 2008) myself and my colleague the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment agreed in principle that the National Consumer Agency should be assigned responsibility for enforcing the new European rules on transparency of pricing information on air fares set down in the Regulation. My officials and officials from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment are currently discussing the transfer or assignment of enforcement powers in this regard to the NCA.

Public Transport.

P. J. Sheehan

Question:

136 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Transport the way the 7% cut in the public transport investment programme will affect the roll out of public transport infrastructure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39975/08]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

152 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Transport the reason funding for public transport was cut by €70 million under budget 2009; the areas or programmes in his Department affected by the €70 million decrease in spending on public transport and the overall reduction of €154 million in the capital budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39832/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 136 and 152 together.

In the current difficult financial climate, all sectors of the economy have had to endure reductions in spending. The capital allocation for public transport in 2009, at €916.5 million, is considerably higher than the funding made available to the sector prior to the current year. In 2007, the capital allocation for public transport was €724 million while in 2006, it was €492 million.

The adjustment in the capital allocation for public transport in 2009 will necessitate a review of the priorities in the Transport 21 investment programme. The provision of increased capacity will be a key consideration in determining public transport investment priorities in the period ahead. All of the public transport projects currently under construction will continue on schedule and some, such as the Cork — Midleton line, Phase 1 of the Western Rail Corridor and the Luas extension to the Docklands, will be completed in the course of the year.

The adjustment in capital funding for public transport investment will not have a significant effect on the roll out of the Transport 21 public transport programme and will not result in the postponement of the start of construction of any public transport project next year. The start and completion dates of public transport projects, which have not yet commenced, will be determined by the funding allocation available during the current difficult economic climate. The commencement dates for these projects will also be influenced by the time taken for public consultation, the relevant statutory process and the procurement and contract award processes.

The other area of major capital expenditure in my Department is on roads. My priorities in this area are the completion of the major interurban network by 2010 and the progressive development of the Atlantic Road Corridor. I understand from the NRA that it is currently in the process of drawing up its programme of works for 2009 based on its funding allocation for the year. I cannot comment, therefore, on individual projects pending the completion of that exercise.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

137 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport when he will allocate the 320 plus additional buses that are needed for the Dublin Bus fleet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39843/08]

The case for the allocation of further funding for the purchase of additional buses by Dublin Bus will be considered in the light of the outcome of the cost and efficiency review of Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann which is under way.

Question No. 138 answered with Question No. 110.
Question No. 139 answered with Question No. 95.
Question No. 140 answered with Question No. 130.
Question No. 141 answered with Question No. 122.

Light Rail Project.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

142 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Transport when the commitment to join the green and red Luas lines as outlined in the Programme for Government will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39924/08]

Joe Costello

Question:

168 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Transport the commencement of works and completion date for Luas line BX and Luas line D; if he has carried out feasibility studies for the line D Broadstone Luas that could proceed without the BX line going ahead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39837/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 142 and 168 together.

Transport 21 provides for the development of a Luas line from St. Stephen's Green to Liffey Junction (lines BX, D), using the old Broadstone railway alignment. Luas line BX runs from St. Stephen's Green to O'Connell Street while Luas line D is the onward extension of the line from O'Connell Street to Liffey Junction. Earlier this year, I mandated the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) to proceed with planning the delivery of line BX/D, based on the agency's preferred route for line BX and the use of the old Broadstone railway alignment for line D. It will not be possible to fully construct Luas line BX at the same time as the construction of Metro North because of the traffic management implications which would arise in the city centre. The RPA is developing a construction strategy for Luas line BX, in close co-operation with Dublin City Council, which includes use of Metro North construction sites and recognises the traffic management requirements of the city centre. The RPA is engaging with Dublin City Council on the basis of the contemporaneous delivery of lines BX and D. In this regard it is the intention of the RPA to make a single railway order application for the combined line BX/D to An Bord Pleanála in the latter part of next year. I understand from the RPA that public consultation on line D route options is taking place at present and that the identification of a preferred route option is likely by the end of 2008.

Transport 21 provides that new Luas lines will link into the existing network to provide a coherent public transport offering and operational flexibility to the travelling public, enabling depot and other resource sharing between lines with consequent efficiencies. I am of the view, for the reasons outlined above, that the construction of Luas line D, without proceeding with line BX, would not be a viable option for operational and transport planning reasons. The start and completion dates of Luas line BX/D, will be determined by the outcome of work being undertaken by Dublin City Council and the RPA in developing a construction strategy, the outcome of the statutory approval and procurement processes and the funding allocation available to my Department during the current difficult economic climate.

Road Safety.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

143 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport the amount he has allocated for the Medical Bureau of Road Safety for 2009; if he has ringfenced funding specifically to target measures at motorists driving under the influence of drugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39850/08]

I have provided €4.395 million to the Medical Bureau of Road Safety for 2009. While my Department provides annual funding to the Medical Bureau of Road Safety, the allocation of resources to the various programmes is a matter for the bureau itself.

Question No. 144 answered with Question No. 100.
Question No. 145 answered with Question No. 91.
Question No. 146 answered with Question No. 122.

Rail and Road Network.

David Stanton

Question:

147 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Transport further to his press release of 15 October 2008 regarding Transport 21 investment in Cork, the month in 2009 when he expects the Cork to Midleton commuter rail line to be opened and operational; when he expects the proposed N25 Carrigtwohill to Midleton upgrade to be delivered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40019/08]

The construction and bringing into operation of the Cork to Midleton rail link is a matter for Iarnród Éireann. I understand from the company that it expects to have the link operational by mid-2009. As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme element of Transport 21. The implementation of individual national road projects, including the proposed N25 Carrigtwohill to Midleton upgrade, is a matter for the National Roads Authority under the Roads Act 1993, in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

Question No. 148 answered with Question No. 120.

Departmental Expenditure.

Michael Creed

Question:

149 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Transport if he has commenced a multi-criteria analysis of all transport projects to take into account environmental factors on a whole project basis as promised in the programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39923/08]

All transport capital projects are appraised in accordance with the Department of Finance Guidelines for the Appraisal and Management of Capital Expenditure Proposals in the Public Sector and the Department of Transport Common Appraisal Framework, which provides for the inclusion of environmental factors. I am aware that an interdepartmental working group, chaired by the Department of Finance, has prepared a detailed research paper on the appropriate means of treating environmental emissions, in particular CO2 emissions, in future cost benefit analysis of major infrastructural projects. I understand that the content of the report will form the basis for guidelines that will issue from the Department of Finance. The agencies under my Department with responsibility for implementing capital projects will be required to take these guidelines into account for future projects.

Ferry Services.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

150 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport the supports under EU regulations available from national and EU sources towards the re-establishment of the Cork-Swansea ferry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39603/08]

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

165 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport his policy to encourage and support the establishment and maintenance of maritime links in and out of the State; if in this regard he accepts that the re-establishment of the Cork-Swansea ferry is vital to facilitate trade and tourism and, accordingly, worthy of EU and national support and encouragement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39602/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 150 and 165 together.

The Cork Swansea Ferry Company suspended its service in 2007. I can appreciate the concerns that have been expressed in the region in response to this development. 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 an operator 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.

As Minister of State for Transport, I feel it is important that the market offers a diverse range of maritime links in and out of the State. This is vital to facilitate trade and tourism. I certainly hope that the current efforts show that the service is commercially viable and that it can be resumed as soon as possible. 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).

Question No. 151 answered with Question No. 105.
Question No. 152 answered with Question No. 136.

Ministerial Travel.

Damien English

Question:

153 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Transport the public transport services used by him since 2007 to date in 2008 on official business; the destinations travelled to; the cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39935/08]

I have used rail, bus and Luas services at various times on official business since 2007 and I have not submitted any claims for reimbursement to the Department of Transport. Where possible, I have used public transport to travel to and from official engagements/business, all of which are on public record.

Rail Network.

Liz McManus

Question:

154 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide a full report on the Dublin rail interconnector; the stage planning for the rail interconnector is at; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39840/08]

The planning and design of the DART Underground (as the Interconnector is now known) is a matter for Iarnród Éireann. I understand from the company that work is currently underway on the scheme design, geotechnical investigations and preparation of an environmental impact study including a detailed archaeological report. I understand that Iarnród Éireann expect to submit an application for a Railway Order to An Bord Pleanála by the end of 2009. My Department has recently approved funding of €55 million towards the cost of this planning and design work.

Industrial Relations.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

155 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Transport the contacts he has had with Aer Lingus management and unions in view of the recent industrial relations issues at the airline; if he has been briefed recently by the Government appointed directors to the board of Aer Lingus; the directions he has given the Government appointed directors in terms of protecting our national strategic aviation interests; and if he and the Government will respond to calls to fully utilise the industrial relations machinery of the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39853/08]

Pat Breen

Question:

200 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Transport if he will put a dispute resolution process in place to assist in resolving the crisis at Aer Lingus; the steps he is taking to assist in this matter in view of the State’s 25% shareholding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40110/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 155 and 200 together.

I have not had contact with Aer Lingus management or unions nor have I been briefed by the State-nominated directors on the Board in relation to the current industrial relations issues at the airline. The conduct of industrial relations is a matter for the company and the State's shareholding does not confer on me any direct role in this matter.

Under Company law all directors are obliged to pursue the best interests of the Company. Subject to that duty, the State's nominees on the Board of Aer Lingus have been issued with a mandate to ensure that all future decisions of the company that have significant implications for wider Government, aviation or regional development policies are considered at Board level. The mandate specifically states that the possible decisions concerned would include decisions on proposals with significant local or national economic implications including a direct impact on employment. In accordance with the mandate the State's nominees are directed to seek to reconcile commercial and public policy objectives. However, the Deputy will be aware that directors are not at liberty to disclose price sensitive information to shareholders. The mandate to the State-nominated directors is subject to the overriding obligations of all directors to uphold their fiduciary duties and protect the interests of all shareholders.

As Minister for Transport I am concerned that any disruption of services arising from possible industrial action would inconvenience the travelling public and have a negative effect on the economy which is already experiencing serious difficulties. I would therefore urge all sides to avail of the industrial relations mechanisms of the State to provide any necessary assistance in resolving current challenges faced by the management and employees of the Company.

Air Services.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

156 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Transport if he will initiate a full review of our aviation sector and Ireland’s strategic air connectivity; if he will bring forward a Green Paper on the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39854/08]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

206 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if he has reviewed the costs associated with air travel with a view to ensuring that an island nation is adequately catered for in terms of competitiveness on world markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40348/08]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

207 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied regarding the adequacy, frequency and capability of air transport to meet the ongoing requirements of an island nation in an increasingly competitive aviation sector; if airport costs and charges here are sufficiently competitive to meet the challenges of the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40349/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 156, 206 and 207 together.

Ireland's aviation policy as set out my Department's current Statement of Strategy is to promote regular, safe cost effective and competitive air services linking the country with key business and tourism markets. To this end, within the European Union, Ireland has consistently supported market liberalisation measures, which have to date, served as the platform for the rapid expansion of aviation generally. We have also sought to influence the emerging EU and wider international framework for aviation to ensure that it continues to promote competition and innovation in the market-place. The introduction the EU-US Open Skies agreement and the conclusion of a more liberal agreement on a bilateral basis with Canada illustrates our commitment to supporting liberalisation measures.

Our approach to the encouragement of air services is complemented by our policy on the development of airport infrastructure within the country. The main objective is to ensure that the three State Airports have sufficient capacity to respond to the growth opportunities of a competitive airline sector and to provide vital international access. The opening of Terminal 2 at Dublin Airport in early 2010 will allow Dublin Airport to comfortably handle up to 35 million passengers per year and will create a vibrant modern airport that will be an efficient gateway to the Ireland of the 21st century. In addition the six regional airports have a role to play in facilitating access to the regions. My Department provides necessary financial support for airport development and operations as well as PSO services connecting Kerry, Galway, Knock, Sligo, Donegal and Derry to Dublin.

The further key components of our strategy are to ensure that our aviation safety and security policies comply with, or exceed, the highest international standards and that the policy framework for air navigation services ensures that the requirements of airlines for efficient routings and the avoidance of delays are met as far as possible without compromising safety. On the question of costs associated with air travel, because of the market position of Dublin airport, charges at Dublin airport are subject to independent regulation by the Commission for Aviation Regulation with a view to ensuring that charges are maintained at competitive levels. While other airports are not subject to regulation, in setting charges all airports have to take account of the highly competitive nature of the aviation market in order to attract and retain airline services.

From an Irish economy perspective, the overarching priority is to maintain the highest possible levels of connectivity between Ireland and key markets around the world and my Department will continue to closely monitor developments in the aviation sector that impact on that objective. While sustained high fuel costs continue to have a very negative impact on airlines, even if prices have fallen back from all-time peaks, I do not believe that a review of our strategy for aviation is warranted at this time.

Road Safety.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

157 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Transport if he has decided to alter the blood alcohol limit for drivers; if he is satisfied with the measures in place to address drink driving on Irish roads in view of recent reports that approximately 32,000 motorists who were initially charged with drink driving over the past five years were subsequently not processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39848/08]

The Government recently gave its approval to the drafting of a Road Traffic and Transport Bill, which inter alia deals with the legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level for drivers. The processing of prosecutions for intoxicated driving offences is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

Economic Competitiveness.

Willie Penrose

Question:

158 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on recent trends of decreasing volumes of trade through Irish ports; if he is bringing forward measures to stabilise and increase trade through the national ports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39864/08]

The changed economic climate has inevitably impacted on the volume of trade through the State's ports. In September the Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO) published its mid-year analysis of traffic volumes through the ports. This showed that throughput fell during the first half of 2008. The IMDO's analysis shows that roll-on/roll off (ro-ro) volumes were down 4%, lift-on/lift off (lo-lo) volumes were down 3% and bulk volumes were down 8% when compared to the same six months in 2007. On a more positive note, the analysis also shows that the traffic data for the 2nd quarter this year indicates no further fall in export volumes for this period.

Notwithstanding the changed economic circumstances, the provision of additional modern port capacity is still required in the medium term. Once the economy returns to growth, it will be important that the transport infrastructure is in place to facilitate this upturn. The Transport Programme of the NDP 2007-2013 contains a Ports Sub-Programme. The NDP estimates that the port infrastructure projects that may be completed in the lifetime of the current NDP will cost between €300 and €600 million. This expenditure will not be Exchequer funded, but will be funded from a combination of the internal resources of the port companies, private sector investment and other sources of commercial financing.

Rail Network.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

159 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if the previously announced intended expenditure in respect of the development of the rail services is expected to proceed on target; if priorities have been set; the way these priorities will affect provincial and commuter rail development infrastructure; if he has had discussions with the service providers in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39997/08]

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question Nos. 119,120 and 121 on 22 October, which sets out the position regarding Transport 21 investment overall including investment in rail services.

Question No. 160 answered with Question No. 116.

Road Network.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

161 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Transport the final projected estimated costs for the construction of the Dublin Port Tunnel; if further payments will be made to the NMI consortium who built the tunnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39867/08]

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme element of Transport 21. The implementation of individual national road projects, including the Dublin Port Tunnel, as well as the responsibility to secure the provision of a safe and efficient network of national roads, are matters for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Act, 1993 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

The construction of the Dublin Port Tunnel project was procured by Dublin City Council and funded through the NRA. I understand from the NRA that the estimated final outturn cost of the Tunnel remains at €751 million.

Road Safety.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

162 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Transport the progress to date in effecting the National Road Safety Strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39890/08]

The Primary purpose and aim of the Road Safety Action Plan is to save lives and reduce injuries on our Roads, by reducing fatalities to no more than 60 fatalities per million or 252 fatalities per year.

The 1 Primary Action of saving lives is supplemented by 125 other specific actions, designed to bring about the objective expressed in the primary action.

The Strategy is being successfully implemented. Thankfully, we have seen a marked reduction in the number of people killed on our roads in 2007 and to date this year, despite the fact there has been a 40 per cent increase in the number of drivers and a 70 per cent increase in the number of vehicles on our roads.

According to the European Road Safety Performance Index (PIN) programme, which is run by the European Transport Safety Council, (ETSC), Ireland is now ranked in the top ten best performing EU countries for road safety performance.

Action 83 of the Strategy is for the Road Safety Authority (RSA) to report to me each year on the implementation of the 126 actions in the Strategy, all of which identify the lead agency responsible for implementation and a target implementation date.

Both Minister Dempsey and I have received that report and the Authority has confirmed that all actions in the Strategy identified for completion in 2007 have been completed in full.

These include publication of a revised Rules of the Road, road safety awareness events, integration of RSA enforcement activity with An Garda Síochána and Customs and publication of various consultation documents including one on compulsory training for motor cyclists.

In the coming weeks Minister Dempsey and I will bring that report to the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Road Safety which Minister Dempsey chairs. I envisage that the report will then be publicly available.

It is of course the case that work has already begun on other actions in the Strategy which have a longer timeframe for completion, for example the introduction of a lower blood alcohol level for drivers (Action no. 76), with target date of 2nd Quarter 2009, which will form part of the Road Traffic and Transport Bill, which I hope to see published early next year.

Provisions relating to mandatory alcohol testing of drivers at collisions (Action no. 75) will also be included in that Bill.

Question No. 163 answered with Question No. 122.

End-of-Life Vehicles.

Joan Burton

Question:

164 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Transport if he will publish the report into the presence of Irish and foreign registered car write-offs on Irish roads; if the Revenue Commissioners have provided more information on the presence of car write-offs on Irish roads; if he will reform the National Vehicle Driver File to tackle the problem of car write-offs; if he will immediately introduce a compulsory reporting system for car write-offs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39851/08]

With the assistance of data made available voluntarily by the insurance industry, the Department following analysis against the 2.5 million active vehicles on the NVDF has to date written to the registered owners of some 856 vehicles which the records indicate have been written off and which may still be in use on public roads. At this stage verification of data relating to only one insurer remains to be finalised and when this is completed shortly the Department will write to the owners affected. This will bring this whole exercise to conclusion.

As I indicated in responses to previous similar questions, voluntary arrangements with insurers have been put in place whereby the NVDF receives regular notifications of write off instances. These arrangements which are operating well are enabling the NVDF to have current write off data and I am disposed to having a period of evaluation of these voluntary arrangements before considering what, if any, compulsory obligations are warranted.

Provision of write-off data in relation to vehicles at the time of registration is a matter for the Revenue Commissioners.

Question No. 165 answered with Question No. 150.

Road Network.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

166 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Transport if he is considering proposals from the National Roads Authority to bring forward a new tranche of PPPs for road construction and road maintenance and upgrade projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39857/08]

As the Deputy is aware, as Minister for Transport I am responsible for overall policy and funding issues relating to the National Roads Programme element of Transport 21. However, the detailed planning, design and implementation of individual national road improvement projects including those carried out by way of Public Private Partnership (PPP), is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Act 1993.

Earlier this year the Government reviewed the financing arrangements for Transport 21. Arising from that review it is proposed that a number of national road projects should be undertaken as unitary payment (i.e. non-tolled) PPPs, thus releasing Exchequer funding for a capital contribution towards the Metro North project.

Question No. 167 answered with Question No. 96.
Question No. 168 answered with Question No. 142.

Skills Shortages.

Willie Penrose

Question:

169 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the interdepartmental committee charged with approving an implementation plan for the National Skills Strategy and with overseeing its implementation has been established; the members of this committee; the number of times it has met to date; her plans to publish an implementation plan for the National Skills Strategy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40075/08]

Since its establishment I have been the chair of the Inter-Departmental Committee for the implementation of the National Skills Strategy. The other members of the Committee are as follows:

Mr Sean Gorman — Secretary General, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment

Ms Brigid McManus — Secretary General, Department of Education and Science

Mr Paddy McDonagh — Department of Education and Science

Mr Kevin McCarthy — Department of Education and Science

Mr Dermot Mulligan — Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment

Ms Ann Nolan — Department of Finance

Mr Pat Hayden — Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment also provides the Secretariat for the Committee.

The Committee has met on two occasions to date and its next meeting will take place on Tuesday 18th November. The Inter-Departmental Committee is due to publish an implementation plan next year and will oversee subsequent progress towards realising the objectives contained in the National Skills Strategy.

Willie Penrose

Question:

170 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the expert group on future skills needs will publish an annual report on the implementation of the National Skills Strategy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40076/08]

An Implementation Plan for the National Skills Strategy is currently being developed by an Inter-Departmental Committee which I chair and comprises of the Secretaries General and other senior officials of my Department and the Department of Education and Science. The Department of Finance is also represented at senior official level. The plan, which is due for completion next year, will present the methods through which the objectives contained in the National Skills Strategy, insofar as they relate to optimal levels of educational attainment, will be pursued. The Committee is also responsible for overseeing the subsequent activation of this implementation plan.

It is intended that the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs will publish an annual report outlining progress towards the implementation of the National Skills Strategy one year after the Inter-Departmental Committee has completed the implementation plan. This progress report will then be submitted to the Inter-Departmental Committee for its consideration.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

171 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will extend the price display order requirements to include a requirement on fuel stations to notify the consumer authority by text or e-mail of the price of fuels charged in order that a mapping of prices could be easily drawn up by the authority. [40122/08]

The Retail Price (Diesel and Petrol) Display Order 1997 obliges those selling petrol and diesel products to exhibit notices at their premises of the retail price per litre being charged for those products. The purpose of the Order is to allow consumers to inform themselves of the prices being charged by particular fuel retailers in their locality so that they can make informed choices as to how to get the best value for money. Evidence available to the National Consumer Agency, particularly in the grocery area, shows that consumers by being strategic in relation to where they purchase goods can act as a catalyst for greater competition particularly in the area of prices.

In so far as the Deputy's suggestion is concerned, I am not altogether convinced that it would be practical to extend the scope of the display orders to oblige fuel retailers to notify the National Consumer Agency of the prices they charge for petrol and diesel products and of any changes to those prices. I do, however, accept that there is need for greater transparency between the manner in which the retail price for fuel paid by consumers follows changes in the wholesale price. In this regard, the Deputy will be aware that in September I requested the National Consumer Agency to undertake a survey into why pump prices for petrol and diesel have not fallen in line with the drop in the wholesale price of oil. I am advised by the Agency that work in relation to this matter is well underway. I understand that as part of its work, the Agency will seek to benchmark movements in prices in Ireland against those in other EU countries and that it will also seek to examine the frequency and the timeliness in which changes in the wholesale price are being passed on to consumers. I look forward to receiving the Agency's report into this matter and to considering any suggestions in relation to improving the transparency of the relationship between the wholesale and retail prices of fuel products.

Tax Code.

Joan Burton

Question:

172 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance if the provision of a taxi or other transport service to and from work by an employer to an employee on health grounds will be exempted from taxation as a benefit-in-kind; his views on whether the relevant legislation is satisfactory in this regard; if he will amend legislation in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40068/08]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that Section 118 provides that a benefit-in-kind charge shall apply in respect of any benefit made available to an employee by an employer, and which is not made good by that employee, unless the provision of the benefit is specifically exempted from charge by legislation.

In general there is no deduction against tax payable for the cost of travelling to and from an employee's place of work. In the circumstances the provision of a taxi or other transport service to and from work, irrespective of the personal circumstances of an individual employee, is a benefit which would result in a charge to benefit-in-kind being imposed.

However, in circumstances where an employer provides a monthly or annual bus, railway or ferry travel pass issued by an approved transport provider such a benefit is specifically exempted from a charge.

The existing legislation is considered satisfactory and there are no plans at this time to revise the legislation.

Decentralisation Programme.

John O'Mahony

Question:

173 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Finance if he will clarify the position in respect to decentralisation to Claremorris, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40074/08]

The Office of Public Works is pressing ahead with the Claremorris decentralisation project on a phased basis. Phase one of the project will provide for 104 posts and is currently proceeding. Phase two, involving 38 posts, is deferred pending review in 2011.

Departmental Offices.

Ulick Burke

Question:

174 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Finance if he will complete the reply to Parliamentary Question No. 256 of 2 October 2008, by indicating the cost per unit area rent or lease for the offices outlined in the table in his original reply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40092/08]

The table furnished on 29 October 2008 in response to Ceist 256 of the 2 October, has been adapted to reflect the supplemental information now sought in this PQ. The table now includes under the Column "DAFF Portion", the rent attributable to the Department's office allocation for the leased and rented buildings in question.

County

Location

Building Name

Address

% OCC DAFF

DAFF Space M2

BLD Rent PA

DAFF Portion

Carlow

Carlow

Carlow Gov Off Church St

Church Street

27.48

43.67

37,500.00

10,305.00

Clare

Ennis

Ennis Education Office

First Floor

4.69

27.17

4,761.5

2,233.14

Cork

Clonakilty

Clonakilty Temp Dec Off CMR BL C

Block C

100.00

1,152.00

157,480.00

157,480.00

Cork

Cork

Cork Gov Off Connolly Hall

Connolly Hall

67.00

120.37

28,000.00

18,670.00

Cork

Cork

Cork Gov Off Irish Life Bldg

Irish Life House

1.00

9.82

190,800.00

1,908.00

Cork

Cork

Cork Gov Off Hibernian House

Hibernian House

100.00

1730.26

280,000.00

280,000.00

Cork

Cork

Cork Tivoli Gov Offices

Terminal Building

100.00

17.19

1,896.00

1,896.00

Cork

Mallow

Mallow Farm Devopment Service

Gouldshill

100.00

95.3

10,361.06

10,361.06

Cork

Skibbereen

Skibbereen Forestry Office

Townsend Street

100.00

44.59

11.700.00

11.700.00

Donegal

Glenties

Glenties Marine Forestry Off

Mill Road

100.00

28.00

8,851.50

8,851.50

Dublin

Dublin 02

Earlsfort Tce St Steph Gr Hse

Earlsfort Terrace

23.1

672.68

10,242.29

23,659.69

Dublin

Dublin 03

East Wall PVII

Bond Road Extension

100.00

253.44

212,249.28

212,249.28

Dublin

Dublin 07

Bow Street Gov Office

31-35 Bow Street

6.50

59.64

450,000.00

27,000.00

Dublin

Dublin 24

Tallaght Gov Off St Johns Hse

St John’s House

55.00

1,621.49

722,501.00

397,375.55

Dublin

Dublin Airport

Dublin Airport International Hse

Dublin Airport

100.00

33.26

11,308.40

11,308.40

Dublin

Swords

Swords Agricultural Inspectors

Castle Shopping Centre

100.00

61.60

8,253.30

8,253.30

Galway

Galway

Galway Gov Off Ross House

Ross House

69.00

282.06

88,000.00

60,720.00

Galway

Galway

Galway DAF Dockgate

Dockgate

100.00

3,430.37

744,825.84

744,825.84

Galway

Loughrea

Loughrea Agriculture Offices

ESB Premises

100.00

92.94

19,147.65

19,147.65

Galway

Loughrea

Loughrea Agriculture Offices

ESB Premises

100.00

100.33

13,865.54

13,865.54

Galway

Tuam

Tuam Government Offices

Rhatigans Premises

66.00

155.61

38,500.00

25,410.00

Kerry

Castleisland

Castleisland Marine Forestry Off

The Island Centre

100.00

24.48

2,244.90

2,244.90

Kerry

Killarney

Killarney Park Court

Beech Road

100.00

315.87

61,200.00

61,200.00

Kerry

Tralee

Tralee Agric Warehouse

Ballinorig Road

100.00

536.3

18.324.86

18.324.86

Kerry

Tralee

Tralee Greenview Office

3 Greenview Terrace

100.00

108.98

20.500.00

20.500.00

County

Location

Building Name

Address

% OCC DAFF

DAFF Space M2

BLD Rent PA

DAFF Portion

Kildare

Maynooth

Maynooth Agriculture Office

Block B

100.00

4,866.10

940,625.68

940,625.68

Kildare

Naas

Naas Agric Off - Poplar House

Poplar House

100.00

557.5

95,696.00

95,696.00

Kildare

Naas

Naas Agric Off Spring Garden Hse

Spring Garden House

100.00

193.40

41,000.00

41,000.00

Laois

Portlaoise

Portlaoise DAF Appeals Office

Kilminchy Court

100.00

612.05

8,3259.00

8,3259.00

Laois

Portlaoise

Portlaoise Agric Office Eircom

Knockmay Indust. Estate

100.00

1,323.82

191,000.00

191,000.00

Laois

Portlaoise

Portlaoise Grattan Business Cent

Grattan Business Centre

100.00

1.479.08

264,640.00

264,640.00

Laois

Portlaoise

Portlaoise Grattan House

Grattan Business Centre,

100.00

405.52

75,000.00

75,000.00

Laois

Portlaoise

Portlaoise Agri Records

Unit 11

100.00

245

28,755.60

28,755.60

Leitrim

Drumshambo

Drumshanbo Arcade Market Square

Market Square

100.00

248

31,500.00

31,500.00

Leitrim

Drumshambo

Drumshanbo High St (AGRI)

First Floor, Cara Pharmacy

100.00

109.00

20,000.00

20,000.00

Limerick

Limerick

Limerick Gov Off Houston Hall

Houston Hall

98.00

2,616.25

373,568.00

366,096.64

Mayo

Claremorris

Claremorris Agriculture Office

St Colman’s Credit Union

100.00

264.20

37,000.00

37,000.00

Meath

Navan

Navan Gov Off Athlumney

Athlumney,

54.41

3,217.67

575,000.00

312,857.50

Monaghan

Ballybay

Ballybay Dist Veterinary Office

7 Main Street

100.00

139.35

11,427.64

11,427.64

Monaghan

Ballybay

Ballybay Livestock Office

Main Street

100.00

517.00

42,000.00

42,000.00

Tipperary

Clonmel

Clonmel Gov Off Harbour Hse

Harbour House

18.30

295.51

275,000.00

50,325.00

Tipperary

Thurles

Thurles Gov Offices - ACC House

ACC House

64.00

95.25

10,157.90

6,501.06

Waterford

Dungarvan

Dungarvan Gov Off Civic Bldgs

Civic Offices

31.90

174.86

81,806.68

26,096.33

Waterford

Waterford

Waterford Harbour Agric Office

Belview Port

100.00

50.19

8,712.00

8,712.00

Wexford

Rosslare Harbour

Rosslare Harbour Government Off

Port Terminal

100.00

55.74

38.09

38.09

Wicklow

Baltinglass

Baltinglass DAF Office

Ground Floor,Unit 2

100.00

70.23

26,000.00

26,000.00

Wicklow

Wicklow

Wicklow Gov Off Murrough

The Murrough

50.00

369.29

123,926.44

619,63.22

289,22.43

4,869,983.47

Banking Sector Regulation.

Ulick Burke

Question:

175 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Finance his views on the increase in charges of 50% imposed by the banking sector on business since the announcement of the Credit Institute (Financial Support) Scheme; the steps he will take to put an end to this practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40093/08]

There are two categories of charges applied by the banks; interest-related banking charges and non-interest-related banking charges and fees.

Interest-related banking charges are determined by the banks themselves on the basis of market considerations and neither the Minister for Finance nor the Financial Regulator have any statutory role in this matter. In setting the level of such charges for a borrower, a bank would have regard to a variety of factors such as the customer's credit history, the risk perceived to attach to the loan, the cost of funds to the bank, competition considerations etc.

The Credit Institutions (Financial Support) Scheme 2008 provides the framework for granting a guarantee to the participating banks. It does not, however, provide for State assistance or participation in the banks. Accordingly, as Minister for Finance, I do not have a right to interfere in the commercial decision making of the banks.

As the Deputy will be aware, in welcoming the European Central Bank's announcement on 6 November 2008 of a 0.5% reduction in its key interest rates, I highlighted that I would expect financial institutions to pass on these reductions to their customers, in particular to those purchasing properties on variable mortgages and to small and medium-sized enterprises. This will help support sustainable growth and employment along with the maintenance of price stability in line with the ECB's objectives.

The regulation of non-interest-related banking charges/fees is vested in the Financial Regulator and credit institutions are obliged to seek the prior approval of the Regulator before any increase in such fees. In fact, Ireland is the only EU country with statutory control on such fee increases. If the increased charge to which the Deputy is referring falls within this category, it will, as I have indicated, have received the prior approval of the Financial Regulator.

Tax Code.

Richard Bruton

Question:

176 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he will allow businesses to claim a deduction of VAT in respect of payments made on the leasing of private passenger cars which are used primarily for business proposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40123/08]

Since the introduction of VAT in 1972, Ireland has operated a block on VAT deductibility thereby not allowing businesses recover VAT incurred on cars, petrol, meals, hotel accommodation (except when associated with a business conference) and entertainment expenses. The block was introduced to limit revenue loss and tax avoidance. The cost to the Exchequer of removing this block would be significant.

In addition, removing the block on leasing while maintaining a block on the purchasing of business cars would not be feasible as it would introduce distortion of competition whereby leasing companies would enjoy a significant advantage over companies selling cars to the business community. Concerns also arise in controlling the measure given the potential for abuse.

Joan Burton

Question:

177 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance, further to Parliamentary Question No. 188 of 5 November 2008, the level of increase in the capital gains tax rate at which he would consider that there would be an inverse relationship between an increasing rate and an increasing yield; his views on increasing the CGT rate by more than 2% in budget 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40125/08]

The point at which an increase in Capital Gains Tax could cause an inverse relationship between an increasing rate and an increasing yield, is a matter of judgment. The judgment would have to have regard to issues such as the prevailing economic and market conditions and so on. I do not propose to make speculate on the matter. As regards increasing the CGT rate by more than 2%, I have no plans to increase the rate further, at this time.

Tax Collection.

Joan Burton

Question:

178 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance, further to Parliamentary Question No. 195 of 5 November 2008, the amount of tax each of the categories, with an identical breakdown, contribute in terms of income tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40126/08]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the information requested by the Deputy is provided in the following table. The numbers of earners and estimated amount of income tax in the various ranges of income are based on the adjusted data for 2005 projected forward in accordance with macro-economic data relating to actual and expected growth in wages and employment.

Range of Taxable Income

Personal Status

ALL

PAYE

Self-Employed

Numbers

Tax

Numbers

Tax

Numbers

Tax

€m

€m

€m

€100,000 or less

Single

1,428,300

4,231

1,335,100

3,874

93,300

357

Married

732,100

3,707

625,800

3,171

106,300

536

Widowed

73,200

162

64,700

125

8,500

37

Range Total

2,233,700

8,099

2,025,600

7,170

208,100

929

€100,001 – €200,000

Single

14,700

610

11,800

480

2,800

130

Married

93,100

3,122

81,800

2,679

11,300

443

Widowed

1,000

43

600

26

400

17

Range Total

108,900

3,775

94,300

3,185

14,600

590

€200,001 – €300,000

Single

1,800

159

1,100

97

700

62

Married

11,100

890

8,000

630

3,100

260

Widowed

200

16

100

8

100

8

Range Total

13,100

1,065

9,200

735

3,900

330

Over €300,000

Single

1,500

429

600

144

900

285

Married

8,500

2,177

4,100

804

4,400

1,372

Widowed

100

29

0

7

100

22

Range Total

10,100

2,635

4,700

956

5,400

1,679

Totals

Single

1,446,300

5,429

1,348,600

4,596

97,700

833

Married

844,900

9,896

719,700

7,285

125,200

2,611

Widowed

74,600

250

65,500

166

9,100

83

Overall Total

2,365,800

15,575

2,133,800

12,047

232,000

3,528

It should be noted that the income ranges shown in the above table relate to taxable income as defined in the Revenue Statistical Report, 2006. A married couple who has elected or has deemed to have elected for joint assessment is counted as one tax unit. The figures are projected estimates; numbers are rounded to the nearest hundred and may be subject to further revision.

Joan Burton

Question:

179 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance, further to Parliamentary Question No. 196 of 5 November 2008, the amount of tax each of the categories, with an identical breakdown, contribute in terms of income tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40127/08]

I assume the Deputy is requesting details of tax paid on rental income. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that it is not possible to provide a breakdown of tax paid on rental income in the ranges and categories requested. However, the total amount of tax paid by individuals on rental income is estimated at €324 million in 2005 and €334 million in 2006.

Departmental Correspondence.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

180 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Finance when a substantive response will be issued to a letter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40146/08]

Tullamore Town Council has requested the attendance of a senior official from the Office of Public Works at a future Council meeting to discuss a range of matters including the flooding at the Whitehall Estate. OPW have written to the Town Council indicating that a senior official will be available to attend the Council meeting scheduled for 11 December.

Tax Collection.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

181 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the recently published report of the Committee of Public Accounts on Taxation of Rental Income Receipts and the recommendations in respect of tax compliance contained therein; if he will make provision for these recommendations in the Finance Bill 2008; if he will legislate to give the Revenue Commissioners access to the entire database of landlords’ PPS numbers held by the Private Residential Tenancies Board in order to enhance their compliance work and as requested by the previous chairman of the Revenue Commissioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40213/08]

I am aware of the recently published report of the Public Accounts Committee on Taxation of Rental Income Receipts and the recommendations in respect of tax compliance contained therein. The Report is being examined in my Department and I will be responding to the Committee in due course in the prescribed manner. By way of general comment I can say that not all the recommendations require legislative change and some are already being advanced administratively.

Regarding the specific recommendation that access to the entire database of landlords' PPSNs held by the PRTB (Private Residential Tenancies Board) would enhance Revenue's compliance work, I can advise the Deputy that the Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners has asked my Department to consider including the necessary legal provisions in the forthcoming Finance Bill. However, following discussions between my Department, the Revenue Commissioners and the PRTB, it was decided that access to the PRTB Register would be provided for by legislation in the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, which is to be brought forward by my colleague the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Contact between Revenue and the PRTB is ongoing.

Health Services.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

182 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of refuge places for victims of domestic violence here annually for the past five years; the location of these places; and the funding allocated to each centre annually for the past five years. [40080/08]

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.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

183 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made on mandating the Health Service Executive to ensure sexual assault treatment centres are established in all regions, with on-call staffing; and the number of sexual assault centres nationwide. [40084/08]

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.

Clinical Indemnity Scheme.

Ulick Burke

Question:

184 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive provides insurance cover for independent midwives practising here in view of the fact that an organisation (details supplied) has ceased to provide this cover since September 2008; and if such cover is available from HSE west for independent midwives in this region. [40094/08]

Historically the Irish Nurses Organisation has facilitated a certain level of insurance cover to independent self-employed community midwives who were members of that organisation. As and from 30th September it withdrew this facility.

I would like to emphasise that I support choice for women in childbirth. However, the option of domiciliary births must only be provided in a safe and secure manner. This was the key finding of the Expert Group on Domiciliary Births which reported in 2004. The Health Service Executive established a National Implementation Committee, representative of all the stakeholders involved, to implement the recommendations of the report. Following extensive consultations, agreement has been reached for the extension of the HSE's cover, under the State's Clinical Indemnity Scheme, to include the 15 self-employed community midwives. This includes those practising in the HSE West region and is subject to the signing by the individual midwife of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Health Service Executive. The MOU is constructed on the basis of appropriate forms of governance, clinical supervision, clinical care pathway, performance management and audit frameworks being in place to ensure a safe system for home births.

The new arrangements provide a robust national clinical governance framework which ensures that self-employed community midwives work closely with the HSE, the HSE maternity services and voluntary maternity hospitals.

General Medical Services Scheme.

Mary Upton

Question:

185 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive has engaged with a group (details supplied) and community pharmacists on the reform of the GMS scheme and a new pharmacy contract; if the HSE has repaid the arrears outstanding to the pharmacists; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40104/08]

The Health Service Executive, with the support of my Department, agreed with the Irish Pharmacy Union on 28th April 2008 to address a number of matters including engagement on a new substantive contract and payment of outstanding general round increases. Progress has been made in relation to the general round increases. Engagement on a new contract was deferred pending the judgment of the Commercial Court in a case relating to wholesale reimbursement pricing. Now that the Court has delivered its judgment, I intend to initiate a process of engagement with the IPU at an early date.

Arising from the recent Commercial Court judgment, the Health Service Executive (HSE) have reinstated the previous level of payment to pharmacists from October 2008 forward. The question of outstanding payments for the period March to September 2008 is under consideration by the HSE.

Health Service Staff.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

186 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children the assistance available to foreign nurses looking to undertake the adaptation programme in securing a place to undertake this process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40105/08]

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act, 2004. Therefore the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Repayment Scheme.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

187 Deputy Edward O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding payment due to a person (details supplied) under the national repayment scheme. [40120/08]

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

Tobacco Products.

Joan Burton

Question:

188 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children her position on the introduction of a price floor for cigarettes and other tobacco related products; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40182/08]

Since the introduction of the Tobacco Products (Control of Advertising, Sponsorship, and Sales Promotion) Act, 1978 Ireland has operated a "floor" price mechanism, and cigarette companies cannot sell below these prices. The primary purpose of this measure is to prevent the use of price as a sales promotional device by setting price levels below which brands may not be sold.

Cigarette pricing controls are part of a long-running and sustained effort to decrease smoking prevalence. Evidence shows that pricing is a key tool in this regard and, in particular, in preventing children and adolescents from taking up the habit. Cigarette prices in Ireland are currently the second highest in Europe and the highest in the EU.

Cancer Incidence.

Joe McHugh

Question:

189 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of women diagnosed with cervical cancer in Donegal annually between 1997 and 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40209/08]

Statistics in relation to cancer incidence are collated by the National Cancer Registry. My Department has asked the Director of the Registry to examine this matter and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Hospital Services.

Joe McHugh

Question:

190 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children if a satellite radiotherapy centre will be established in the north west before 2012; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40210/08]

Joe McHugh

Question:

191 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children when a radiotherapy satellite centre will be established in the north west; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40211/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 190 and 191 together.

The Government decided in July 2005 that the best option for improving geographic access for patients in the North West to radiation oncology services is to (i) facilitate access to Belfast City Hospital (BCH) and (ii) progress consideration of a joint venture for the provision of oncology services in the medium term to patients in the North West from a satellite centre in the North West linked to BCH. Cancer patients in the North West requiring radiation oncology treatment are referred to either St. Luke's Hospital Dublin or University College Hospital Galway. A Service Level Agreement is also in place for the referral of radiation oncology patients from Donegal to BCH.

In April this year, Minister Michael McGimpsey of the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSS&PS), Northern Ireland announced the provision of a satellite centre (linked to Belfast City Hospital) to be located in Altnagelvin. It will provide the additional radiotherapy capacity needed to meet an anticipated increase in cancer in Northern Ireland and recognises the potential for cross border co-operation in the development of this resource. Officials from my Department and the DHSS&PS continue to hold discussions in this regard. DHSS&PS expect that this facility will be operational by 2015.

Health Services.

Michael Ring

Question:

192 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if equipment (details supplied) is available to a certain section of the Health Service Executive. [40214/08]

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. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its resources to best meet the requirements of its Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. The Executive is the appropriate body to consider the matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Service Staff.

Michael Creed

Question:

193 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on recent media reports suggesting that the Health Service Executive wants to introduce new restrictions on recruitment and to review the contracts of all temporary staff; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40216/08]

Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of its Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. The current economic climate demands the careful control of public expenditure to avoid additional demands on the Exchequer. I have made it clear that the HSE must live within its overall allocation and manages its activity levels and costs appropriately to achieve this.

The Executive is the appropriate body to consider the matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Child Care Services.

Tony Gregory

Question:

194 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will agree to the request from a partnership (details supplied) to meet with them regarding the findings of their study of the community child care subvention scheme and its negative effects; if he will give full consideration to their findings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40220/08]

I am aware of the recently published report by Dublin Inner City Partnership regarding the Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCSS) which was introduced by my Office in January 2008. I understand that officials in my Office were in contact with and provided information to the Partnership at the time of its drafting. While there are no plans to review the scheme at this point, in order to support the sustainability of the sector, I think it is important to provide a number of clarifications in regard to the purpose of the CCSS funding.

As I have said, the CCSS was introduced in January of this year, replacing a previous support scheme for community-based childcare services, both of which support community-based services to enable them provide reduced childcare fees to disadvantaged and low income parents. As childcare services which in many cases are in receipt of substantial levels of State funding, they are expected to operate on a sound financial footing, balancing their expenditure with income. The support funding enables the services to assist disadvantaged and low income parents and is not provided in respect of parents outside of these categories. Therefore to be sustainable, services must charge non-qualifying parents the full cost fee which, in almost all cases, will still be substantially less than that payable by their counterparts in non-supported services.

As I have outlined, the CCSS is a clearly defined support scheme for community-based childcare services which are required to operate as sustainable entities, alongside other childcare providers. This approach provides equity as well as efficiency in both the broader childcare sector and amongst community services. For example, a community service operating in an area where there are few qualifying parents, and for which capital funding was provided to ensure childcare provision, will generate the bulk of its operational costs from fee income. At the same time, a community service operating in a highly disadvantaged area would, in the absence of the support scheme, be unable to generate sufficient fee income to maintain its service.

Health Service Staff.

Alan Shatter

Question:

195 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in respect of the Health Service Executive’s recent advertisement for a director of medical education and training, she will detail the functions of the director; the person who currently carries out these functions; if there will be a necessity for additional staff; the location at which the director will be based; the budget which will be allocated; and the interaction it is intended he or she will have with doctors employed by the HSE and others providing medical training services. [40231/08]

My Department is seeking clarification from the Health Service Executive regarding this post in the context of the revised organisational structures for the HSE, following which I will revert to the Deputy in the matter.

Medical Cards.

Finian McGrath

Question:

196 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will reverse the decision to abolish the automatic entitlement to the over 70s medical card. [40237/08]

With effect from the 1st January 2009, new income thresholds will apply for entitlement to a medical card for those aged 70 and over. The thresholds are €700 (gross) per week for a single person and €1400 (gross) per week for a couple. It is expected that 95% of those aged 70 or over (about 330,000 out of 353,000) will get a medical card under the new arrangements announced by the Government.

Over 1.3 million people in the State currently have a medical card. The objective of the General Medical Services (GMS) Scheme is to ensure that the medical card benefit is available to those who are unable without undue hardship, to meet the cost of health services for themselves and their dependants. I am satisfied that the Government decision to remove the automatic eligibility to a medical card for persons aged 70 or over with effect from 1st January 2009 is an effective measure to ensure that public health funding is used to help those most in need.

Departmental Correspondence.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

197 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children when a response will be issued to a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40245/08]

The correspondence in question indicated that the writer had received detailed responses to her complaints about the care of her late husband from both the Health Service Executive and the Office of the Ombudsman. I note that the HSE expressed its regret that the correspondent was not satisfied with the care provided to her husband at Waterford Regional Hospital. I would like to extend my own sympathies to the Deputy's constituent on the sad loss of her husband. However I have no role in relation to the investigation of individual complaints about aspects of the public health service, which are the responsibility of the two statutory bodies to which I have referred above.

Hospitals Building Programme.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

198 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children if it is intended that tenders will be invited for the phase 3C extension to Naas General Hospital, Naas, County Kildare in 2008; if a contract will be signed in 2008; and if it is intended that construction will commence in 2009. [40247/08]

In drawing up its capital programme, the Health Service Executive is required to prioritise the capital infrastructure projects to be progressed within its overall capital funding allocation under the National Development Plan, taking account of the NDP targets for division of capital investment between the Acute and Primary, Community & Continuing Care pillars. The Health Service Executive is currently considering its capital plans from 2009 onwards, which will shortly be submitted to my Department for consideration and approval in the normal way. Details on individual projects will be made available when the capital plan is approved.

Question No. 199 answered with Question No. 122.
Question No. 200 answered with Question No. 155.

Rail Network.

Joan Burton

Question:

201 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Transport, further to Parliamentary Question No. 234 of 5 November 2008, the amount of the expenditure allocated in his 2009 departmental budget, either as capital or current expenditure, to metro west and the DART underground; if he will to provide a detailed breakdown of this budgeted expenditure in terms of preparatory, planning and design, pre-construction, construction and support work with a time-line for the delivery of both of these infrastructure projects; when it is expected that tenders for the construction of both of these infrastructure projects will be sought; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40128/08]

As I said in my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 234 of 5 November 2008, provision has been made for expenditure next year on both the DART Underground and Metro West, which will facilitate significant progress in planning and design. No construction activity is proposed during 2009. The precise allocation for the projects will be determined in the coming weeks taking account of the out-turn of expenditure in 2008 and this remains the position.

However, I can tell the Deputy that the provision will be sufficient to allow work to continue on both projects and that Iarnród Éireann and the RPA plan to be in a position to submit applications for Railway Orders for both projects by the end of 2009. In relation to tenders, I understand that the preparation of the tender documentation will be ongoing during the Railway Order process. However, at this stage it is too early to determine a date when final tenders for construction will be sought.

As I have stated previously, the start and completion dates of Transport 21 projects which have not yet commenced will be determined by the outcome of the statutory processes and the funding allocation available during the current difficult economic climate. The provision of increased capacity will be a key priority in determining public transport investment priorities in the period ahead.

Joan Burton

Question:

202 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Transport the time-frame for the opening of the first phase of the Navan rail line; when he expects the station at Hansfield and the station and the park and ride at Pace to open; the increase in rolling stock necessary for the implementation of this first phase; when it is expected that this extra rolling stock will become available; if tenders have been sought and accepted for both the rolling stock and the construction of the rail line and associated infrastructure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40131/08]

I understand from Iarnród Éireann that work will commence shortly on the Clonsilla to Dunboyne section of the Navan Rail Link and that the project, which includes the construction of the Hansfield and Pace Stations with park and ride, is expected to open during July 2010. The main civil construction contract for this phase was awarded on 5th November 2008. The award of the contract for the procurement of the rolling stock is expected to be taken shortly.

Public Transport.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

203 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if it is intended to enhance bus services to include new urban developments not currently in receipt of services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40343/08]

This is a day-to-day operational matter for the relevant transport provider (both public and private) and not one in which I have any role.

Questions Nos. 204 and 205 answered with Question No. 118.
Questions Nos. 206 and 207 answered with Question No. 156.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

208 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which he has revised his projections in respect of public rail and bus transport; the degree to which he will provide the necessary funding commensurate with his Department’s projections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40350/08]

I refer the Deputy to my reply to PQ No. 119 today. This sets out the position regarding investment in public transport under Transport 21. The provision of further funding for buses for Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann will be considered in the light of the outcome of the cost and efficiency review currently underway.

Departmental Bodies.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

209 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which he has devolved policy matters to bodies under the aegis of his Department such as the National Roads Authority or other similar bodies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40351/08]

The following table lists the bodies and organisations under the aegis of my Department and their responsibilities. Since my appointment as Minister for Transport, I have not devolved any additional responsibilities to any of these bodies and organisations.

Body

Functions

Dublin Airport Authority Shannon Airport Authority Cork Airport Authority

Dublin Airport Authority is responsible for the management and development of Dublin Airport and for Shannon and Cork airports pending the completion of the restructuring of the company as provided for in the State Airports Act 2004. On the implementation of the Act, both the Cork and Shannon Airport Authorities will operate their respective airports. At present the boards of both airports are charged with preparing to assume responsibility for the management and development of the airports as well as being empowered to undertake any functions delegated to them by, and in agreement with, Dublin Airport Authority during the interim period.

Irish Aviation Authority

The Irish Aviation Authority carries out a range of operational and regulatory functions and services relating to the safety and technical aspects of civil aviation. The Authority ensures that Irish civil aviation operates to international and European safety standards and systems in accordance with international agreements.

Commission for Aviation Regulation

The principal function of the Commission for Aviation Regulation is to regulate airport charges at Dublin Airport and to regulate aviation terminal services charges at Irish airports, which have an annual throughput in excess of one million passengers. The Commission also has responsibility for discharging Ireland’s responsibilities under EU legislation on slot allocation, the licensing of air carriers, the regulation of the groundhandling market and the enforcement of air passenger rights. Additionally, the Commission is the competent authority for the licensing of travel agents and tour operators.

C.I.E. Group

Córas Iompair Éireann (CIÉ) is charged with the provision of bus and rail public transport for passengers as well as rail freight transport within the State and the operation of Rosslare Europort and CIÉ Tours. CIÉ has three wholly owned subsidiary limited liability companies: Bus Átha Cliath, Bus Éireann and Iarnród Eireann.

Bus Átha Cliath

Bus Átha Cliath provides bus services in Dublin city and county and contiguous areas.

Bus Éireann

Bus Éireann provides bus services throughout Ireland with the exception of Dublin City. Bus Éireann is also responsible for the operation and administration of the national school transport scheme on behalf of the Department of Education and Science.

Iarnród Éireann

Iarnród Éireann manages, maintains and develops the rail network infrastructure. It provides a railway service and a road freight service.

Railway Safety Commission

The Railway Safety Commission, established on 1 January 2006 under the Railway Safety Act 2005, has responsibility for regulating the safety of railway systems carrying fare-paying passengers and commercial freight and of other railways where they interface with public roads. The Commission also has responsibility for safety approval of new and modified passenger carrying cable railways, cable cars and drag lifts. The Railway Incident Investigation Unit, which is a functionally independent unit of the Commission, has responsibility for investigating accidents on railway systems and for making recommendations in that regard.

Railway Procurement Agency

The Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) is responsible for the procurement of such light rail and metro infrastructure as may be determined from time to time by the Minister. It is also responsible for the delivery of integrated ticketing systems as may be determined by the Minister. The Agency may also exploit commercial opportunities arising from its functions.

National Roads Authority

The National Roads Authority has overall responsibility for the planning and supervision of works for the construction and maintenance of national roads, including the management of the national roads programme and for the allocation of grants to specific projects on the national roads network.

Dublin Transportation Office

The Dublin Transportation Office (DTO) was established to coordinate the implementation by relevant agencies of an agreed integrated transport strategy for the Greater Dublin Area, the Dublin Transportation Initiative. The DTO is also responsible for carrying out ongoing strategic transportation planning work, including the regular updating of the transport strategy. It also administers a traffic management grants scheme on behalf of the Department.

Road Safety Authority

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is responsible for promotion of road safety including, driver testing and licensing, registration of driving instructors, driver vocational training, compulsory basic training for motorcyclists, accident and road safety research, vehicle standards and road haulage enforcement functions. The RSA is also responsible for promoting public awareness of road safety and measures, including the advancement of education, relating to the promotion of the safe use of roads.

Medical Bureau of Road Safety

The Medical Bureau of Road Safety’s principal functions are to carry out analyses, for their drug or alcohol content, of specimens of blood and urine, provided for the Gardaí by people suspected of drink or drugs driving offences. The Bureau issues certificates in respect of the results of these analyses, which may be used as evidence in prosecutions for offences. The Bureau also participates in the Evidential Breath Testing Programme, providing Evidential Breath Testing instruments and training to Gardai.

Commission for Taxi Regulation

The Commission for Taxi Regulation was established under the Taxi Regulation Act 2003 and is responsible for the development and maintenance of the regulatory framework for the control and operation of small public service vehicles (taxis, hackneys and limousines) and their drivers.

Marine Casualty Investigation Board

The Function of the Marine Casualty Investigation Board is to carry out investigations into marine casualties that take place in Irish waters or involve Irish Registered vessels.

Port Companies: Port of Cork Company, Drogheda Port Company, Dublin Port Company, Dundalk Port Company, Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company, Galway Harbour Company, New Ross Port Company, Shannon/Foynes Port Company, Port of Waterford Company, Wicklow Port Company.

The port companies are State-owned companies established under the Harbours Act 1996. The Act provides that the principal objects of the companies include the provision of such facilities, services and lands in their harbours for ships, goods and passengers, as it considers necessary. The companies are required to take all proper measures for the management, control, operation and development of their harbour.

Human Rights Issues.

Pat Breen

Question:

210 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the implications for the Irish Human Rights Commission following the Budget 2009 proposals to reduce its funding by 24%; his future plans for the Commission; if he will comply with the request from the UN to strengthen the independence and the capacity of the IHRC by giving it adequate and sufficient resources to do its job; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40106/08]

The context in which financial provision has been made by the Government for the Irish Human Rights Commission for 2009 is as indicated in the Budget Announcement of 14 October 2008. Therefore, while I accept that a reduced budget will cause some difficulties, I also consider that there is sufficient funding provided in 2009 for the Human Rights Commission to enable them to adequately discharge their core activities.

I would reiterate that, as I indicated in my contribution to the budget debate, I had decided that the main priority in the Justice area in 2009 will be tackling crime. In that regard, decisions about funding reflect that priority with the result that in a small number of areas budgets have been reduced significantly. Moreover, in line with Government policies generally I have asked all State bodies to significantly reduce their spending on consultants, advertising and other non core items.

Employment Rights.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

211 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether fathers here are discriminated against by the non-availability of paid paternity leave. [39490/08]

My Department, in consultation with the social partners, is examining the issue of paternity leave as part of a review of maternity, parental and paternity leave as promised in the Agreed Programme for Government and the Social Partnership agreement "Towards 2016". I expect to receive a report on the outcome of the deliberations in the near future.

The issue of the introduction of a statutory entitlement to paternity leave was examined before, in 2002, by a working group made up of representatives of the social partners and relevant State bodies, as part of the review of the Parental Leave Act, 1998. The working group could not reach a consensus on the issue.

Legislative Programme.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

212 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress on his proposal to introduce a right for the State, to recover from the perpetrators of crime, the amount paid out by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board in respect of that crime. [40077/08]

The question of how offenders might best compensate their victims and indeed the State is not straightforward. In terms of the victim, the Courts may on occasion make orders requiring that compensation be paid to a victim and a civil action for damages can also in principle be taken. However, this process can prove difficult for the victim to obtain financial redress. This is in large part the reason that the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme now exists. The Compensation Tribunal is in a position to provide compensation to victims of crime and has a budget of €4.6 million in 2008.

The Programme for Government contains a number of commitments in respect of victims. I will be pursuing their implementation, following further study, during the course of my term in office.

It is important to note that this work is taking place against the backdrop of a range of significant complementary measures introduced by me such as the recent establishment of the Victims of Crime Office to improve State and Voluntary Sector Services for the victims of crime.

Legal Aid Service.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

213 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding his proposal to ensure that an accused who can afford to defend themselves does not obtain legal aid by requiring those seeking legal aid to complete a statutory declaration prior to attending court. [40078/08]

The Criminal Justice (Legal Aid) Act 1962 provides that free legal aid may be granted in certain circumstances for the defence of persons of insufficient means in criminal proceedings. Under the 1962 Act, the courts, through the judiciary, are responsible for the granting of legal aid. Applicants must establish to the satisfaction of the court that their means are insufficient to enable them to pay for legal representation. The court must also be satisfied that, by reason of the "gravity of the charge" or "exceptional circumstances", it is essential in the interests of justice that the applicant should have legal aid. I have no function in these matters which are determined by the judiciary.

The Act further provides that the court may require an applicant to complete a statement of means. It is an offence for an applicant to knowingly make a false statement or conceal a material fact for the purpose of obtaining legal aid. My Department is committed to ensuring that public funds are safeguarded and, in consultation with the Courts Service, is currently reviewing the operation of this aspect of criminal legal aid.

Crime Prevention.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

214 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he expects to establish a domestic violence prevention office for victims of domestic abuse; when he plans to set up the domestic violence fund; and the approximate amount to be placed in the fund. [40079/08]

The Government's commitment to tackling domestic violence is reflected in the establishment in June, 2007 of Cosc, the National Office for the Prevention of Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence. Cosc's key responsibility is to ensure the delivery of a well co-ordinated "whole of Government" response to domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. Its major priority is to produce a National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence which has the support of State and Non-governmental Organisations in the sector. This strategy will set out the policy on addressing the forms of violence concerned as well as the preventative and responsive actions to be taken by a broad range of organisations to ensure a well co-ordinated system is in place. Work on preparing the strategy is well advanced. There was a good response to a call for submissions earlier in the year and a round of regional consultations with Non-governmental Organisations is due to commence in coming weeks. Cosc has also commenced a research project to map the relevant services currently available in Ireland for victims of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence and this work will also inform the strategy. The commitments in the Programme for Government to establish a Domestic Violence Prevention Office and a Domestic Violence Fund are being addressed in the context of work on the national strategy.

Sex Offenders.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

215 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made to date on expanding the mechanism by which sexual offenders are monitored after their release from prison. [40081/08]

Charles Flanagan

Question:

216 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the details of his proposal to actively monitor persons who are the subject of sex offenders orders and where State agencies are concerned about the behaviour of a particular offender. [40082/08]

Charles Flanagan

Question:

217 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his position on providing gardaí with the power to require individual sex offenders to provide specific information regarding their movements and activities. [40083/08]

Charles Flanagan

Question:

221 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will ensure that all sexual offenders are assessed before their release from prison to identify the level of supervision and regulation needed. [40088/08]

Charles Flanagan

Question:

222 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will introduce a sexual offences Bill which will consolidate and modernise all criminal law in the area of sexual offences. [40089/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 215 to 217, inclusive, and 221 and 222 together.

The arrangements for the monitoring and supervision of sex offenders is provided for in the Sex Offenders Act 2001.

A person found convicted of a sexual offence must, pursuant to Part 2 of the 2001 Act, notify the Garda Síochána of their name and address. Arrangements are in place under which a Garda Inspector in each Division is designated with responsibility for the monitoring of such sex offenders and these arrangements are coordinated at a national level by the Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Investigation Unit of the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation.

In addition the sentencing court in a specific case may impose a post-release supervision order pursuant to Part 5 of the of the 2001 Act. Part 5 sets out a system for the post-release supervision of sex offenders. The sentencing court is obliged to consider whether to impose a sentence involving post-release supervision of the offender. In making this determination, the court must consider a number of factors including the offender's need for rehabilitation, the need to protect the public from serious harm and the prevention of commission of further offences. The court may call evidence in respect of each of the factors to be considered. The post release supervision may be made subject to conditions that the offender attend specified "psychological counselling or other appropriate treatment". The responsibility for the supervision is assigned to the Probation Service.

I wish to advise the Deputy that a High Level Group in my Department, involving the Garda Síochána, the Irish Prison Service and the Probation Service, has been examining the current arrangements in place for the management of sex offenders and what changes might be needed to enhance public protection and safety. Their remit includes a review of the procedures and legislation relating to the assessment, monitoring and supervision of convicted sex offenders. I expect that Group to submit a report to me on the matter early in 2009.

I can further advise the Deputy that Work on the scheme of a Sexual Offences Bill is at an advanced stage of preparation in my Department. The Bill will provide greater protection to children and other vulnerable persons against sexual abuse and exploitation. As the Deputy is aware, the Joint Committee on the Constitutional Amendment has been examining the Twenty Eight Amendment to the Constitution Bill 2007 and expects to report to the Oireachtas shortly. This deals, inter alia, with important matters that arose from the Supreme Court decision in the C.C. case and it is likely that further legislation will be necessary to give effect to the Committee's recommendations. As soon as these two pieces of legislation are enacted, there will exist a modern set of criminal laws governing sexual offences. It is only at that point that the question of consolidation will arise.

Sexual Offences.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

218 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to legislate for a new offence of supplying and administering date rape drugs. [40085/08]

The Programme for Government 2007- 2012 contains a commitment to create a new offence of supplying and administering ‘date rape' drugs. This is an issue which I regard with the utmost seriousness and it is therefore currently being given very careful consideration in my Department in the context of existing provisions in the Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act 1997. Section 12 of that Act already makes it an offence for a person to intentionally or recklessly administer to, or cause another to take, a substance which he or she knows to be capable of interfering substantially with the other person's bodily functions and where he or she knows the person does not consent to what is being done. Section 12(2) provides that a substance capable of inducing unconsciousness or sleep is capable of interfering substantially with bodily functions.

Sentencing Policy.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

219 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made on his proposal to bring in tougher penalties for trafficking, ensuring greater prosecution of traffickers and to improve support services for their victims, particularly for those who are the victims of sexual exploitation. [40086/08]

The Criminal Law (Human Trafficking) Act 2008 is fully operational since 7 June, 2008. The Act provides for offences of trafficking in children and adults for the purposes of their sexual or labour exploitation or the removal of their organs. It also makes it an offence to sell or offer for sale or to purchase or offer to purchase any person for any purpose. Penalties of up to life imprisonment and a fine apply in respect of these offences. The Act amends the definition of ‘child' in the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act, 1998 to mean a person under 18 years of age.

Under Section 5 of the Act it is an offence for a person to solicit sexual services from a trafficked person where the person soliciting knows that the person has been trafficked. The soliciting can take place anywhere — in public or in private. Any person who accept or agrees to accept a payment, right, interest or other benefit for the prostitution of the trafficked person will also commit an offence. Fines of up to €5000 and 12 months imprisonment apply on summary conviction and an unlimited fine and up to 5 years imprisonment applies if a person is convicted on indictment.

The State automatically accepts jurisdiction when the offence is committed in the State, including on ships or aircraft registered in the State. The Act also provides that if an Irish citizen or a person ordinarily resident in Ireland is alleged to have committed a trafficking offence abroad the State will accept the jurisdiction to try the offence here. Again, penalties of up to life imprisonment apply.

Section 10, 11 and 12 provide protective measures for alleged victims. Under Section 10 the Judge may decide to exclude all persons other than officers of the court or persons directly concerned with the proceedings from the court — but announce the verdict, decision and the sentence (if any) in public. This ensures a lack of publicity surrounding these cases. It is also intended to protect trafficked persons who can be very vulnerable and traumatised and the traffickers and their criminal associates may wish to harm them or prevent them from giving evidence. It is an offence under Section 11 — with a penalty of up to 10 years imprisonment and an unlimited fine — to publish or broadcast any information which could identify the alleged victim of the offence. Provision is also made — in Section 12 — to allow an alleged victim of trafficking to give evidence through a live television link, with the leave of the Court in the case of adults, from either within the state or abroad.

As the Criminal Law (Human Trafficking) Act 2008 only came into operation on 7 June 2008 no convictions have been recorded to date for offences contrary to that Act. However, prior to the enactment of the Act of 2008 the Garda Síochána utilised the provisions of the Illegal Immigrants (Trafficking) Act, 2000 in cases where human trafficking was suspected. Since September, 2000 over one hundred persons have been arrested and detained in respect of alleged breaches of the provisions of Section 2 of the Act of 2000. Four persons have been convicted in respect of twenty two alleged breaches of the provisions of Section 2 of the Illegal Immigrants (Trafficking) Act, 2000 and one person is currently awaiting trial while investigation files are being prepared for submission to the Law Officers.

An administrative framework was introduced on 7 June providing for recovery and reflection periods and periods of temporary residence pending the enactment of the Immigration, Residence and Protection Bill. The framework provides provide for a period of recovery and reflection of 45 days in the State for alleged victims of trafficking. In circumstances where the person wishes to assist the Garda Síochána in any investigation or prosecution in relation to the alleged trafficking, a further six months period of residence, renewable, is provided to enable him or her to do so.

An Anti-Human Trafficking unit was established in my Department in February 2008. A key element of the unit's work is the development of a National Action Plan to prevent and tackle trafficking in human beings. The plan will be approved by an Interdepartmental High Level Group for submission to me. It is being developed under the headings of prevention, prosecution of traffickers, protection of victims and child trafficking. Measures of assistance such as accommodation, access to emergency medical treatment, translation and interpretation, counselling and integration or safe return are being examined in conjunction with Governmental and non-governmental organisations at present and will also be examined in the context of the National Action Plan and the work of the High Level Group.

Legislative Programme.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

220 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to provide legislation for the forfeiture of all material gains from the production, sale and distribution of illegal pornography. [40087/08]

As the Deputy will no doubt be aware, the Proceeds of Crime Act 1996 and the Criminal Assets Bureau Act 1996, both of which are amended by the Proceeds of Crime (Amendment) Act 2005, provide for the recovery and disposal of the proceeds of crime. The provisions of this wide-reaching legislation cover confiscation, restraint of use, freezing, preservation or seizure of assets identified as deriving, or suspected to derive directly or indirectly, from criminal activity.

The need to provide for additional legislative measures, including the issue of forfeiture of material gains in respect of the production, sale and distribution of illegal pornography is under review, in the context of other legislative priorities and in the light of commitments in the Programme for Government 2007-2012.

Questions Nos. 221 and 222 answered with Question No. 215.

Human Rights Issues.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

223 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will ratify the UN Convention for the suppression of the trafficking in persons of the exploitation and of the prostitution of others. [40090/08]

The Deputy's Question is understood to refer to the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children, supplementing the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organised Crime.

Many of the provisions of the United Nations Convention on Transnational Organised Crime have already been given effect through legislation. Some additional legislation and administrative procedures will be required before ratification of the Convention can take place. This work is in train.

The enactment of the Criminal Law (Human Trafficking) Act 2008 which came into effect on 7 June 2008 brought Ireland into compliance with the criminal law/law enforcement elements of the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress, and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children. Other aspects of the Protocol are being dealt with administratively in the context of preparation of a National Action Plan and through engagement with the Governmental and non-governmental organisations in this area. It is expected that the Protocol will be ratified next year.

Change of Name Licence.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

224 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 202 of 5 June 2008, if a decision has been made on the mentioned application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40102/08]

I have been informed by the General Immigration Division of my Department that following the receipt of a request from the solicitor of the person referred to by the Deputy (in his Parliamentary Question of 5th June 2008), an application form for a change of name licence was forwarded by that Division by registered post to the solicitor in question on the 6th June 2008. Having failed to receive a response a follow-up letter was forwarded to the applicant's solicitor on the 13th October 2008. To date, no reply to either of the letters has been received.

Closed Circuit Television Systems.

Billy Timmins

Question:

225 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to a person who is having problems with hooligans trespassing in their garden and are anxious to have a closed circuit television installed in their yard for safety reasons; and if there are grants available to assist with the cost involved. [40114/08]

My Department has developed the community based CCTV scheme, the purpose of which is to support local communities who wish to install and maintain CCTV security systems in their area.

My Department does not operate a scheme for persons who wish to install a CCTV system on their private property. I would urge the persons referred to by the Deputy to contact An Garda Síochána concerning the problems they are experiencing, if they have not already done so.

Garda Reserve.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

226 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of people who applied to join the Garda Reserve annually since its establishment; the number who graduated but have since left the Reserve since its establishment; the number of hours carried out to date by the Reserve annually since its establishment; the cost of operating the Reserve annually since its establishment; and the funding being provided for 2009. [40116/08]

I have been advised by the Public Appointments Service (PAS) that the number of applications received by them to join the Garda Reserve is as follows.

At September 2006, 6,661 applications had been received following an initial recruitment campaign. At the end of December 2007, an exercise carried out by PAS showed that a total of 7,916 applications had been received up to that date. In the first ten months of this year, there have been a further 3,729 applications. 360 people have graduated as Garda Reserve members since its establishment. 29 of those have since left the Garda Reserve. The majority (20) have gone on to join the full-time force while 9 have left for personal reasons.

In 2007 expenditure from the Garda Reserve subhead in the Garda Vote amounted to €45,000. The provision in this subhead for 2008 is €1.28 million and expenditure to the end of October amounts to €229,000. The estimates for 2009 provide €1.28 million for this subhead. There are also costs which are not separately assigned to the Garda Reserve. These include the salary costs of Garda trainers as training Reserve members is considered part of the trainers' normal duties. In addition, uniforms for all Garda members are procured in bulk and as such, the specific cost of uniforms for the Garda Reserve members is not identifiable.

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 could 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'.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

227 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the criteria required for acceptance to the Garda Reserve noting the large volume of applications but low number of Reserves; the number who progress through each stage of the application process to becoming trainees; and the five most common reasons that applications to join the Garda Reserve are unsuccessful. [40117/08]

There are a range of reasons why not all applicants secure a place as Reserve trainees. Applicants must first of all meet the basic entry criteria relating to age and residence as set out in Section 4 of the Garda Síochána (Reserve Members) Regulations 2006. They must also satisfy the criteria regarding occupations, for example members of the Defence Forces are precluded from joining. It may not be clear when the initial application is made whether an applicant satisfies the criteria.

All applicants are written to from time to time by the Public Appointments Service (PAS) advising them of when there will be interviews in their locality. Membership of the Reserve is a spare-time voluntary service. Therefore, a significant number of applicants may not always be available to attend for interview or take up a place in training when it is first offered due to family, work or social commitments.

The recruitment process involves a number of stages at which applicants must succeed before proceeding to the next stage. The PAS carries out the interview and written test stage. At the outset of the process, a number of applicants scheduled by PAS to attend for interview and written test generally fail to attend. In 2008, approximately 80% of those who were scheduled to attend for interview actually attended. Success at both interview and written test is required to proceed to the next stages of the recruitment process. Of those that did attend approximately 65% were successful.

If successful at the Public Appointments Service stage, applicants must then pass a Garda medical examination and must satisfy the requirements of a rigorous background security vetting. In a sample of cases in 2008, approximately 50% of those that were successful at the PAS stage of the process passed the medical and security vetting stage of the process.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

228 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the fluctuation in Garda Reserve numbers over periods of time. [40118/08]

Since its establishment in August 2006, the number of attested Garda Reserve members has risen steadily from 36 at the end of 2006 to 217 at the end of 2007 and a current number of 331. There are also currently 76 Garda Reserve trainees. There have been occasional slight fluctuations over the past two years as some members have decided to discontinue their membership for a variety of reasons. The majority have left to become full-time members of the force while a small number have left for personal reasons. I am confident that the Garda Reserve is on a sound footing and will continue to flourish with numbers growing steadily over time until the full complement of members is reached.

Departmental Advertising.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

229 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount spent on advertising campaigns to recruit for the Garda Reserve annually since its establishment; and the planned campaigns and costings for 2009. [40119/08]

A total of €258,868 has been incurred by the Garda Síochána Vote in 2007 (€154,736) and 2008 (€104,132) in respect of the public information campaigns to recruit for the Garda Reserve. The Garda Reserve recruitment advertising campaign for 2009 is currently in the process of being planned and the estimated cost of that campaign is not currently available.

In 2006, a major recruitment campaign was undertaken by An Garda Síochána with the purpose of recruiting to An Garda Síochána both full time and reserve Garda. The total amount expended in 2006 on this campaign amounted to €683,933. It is not possible to break this figure down into the amount spent in respect of the Garda Reserve only.

Citizenship Applications.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

230 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 naturalisation application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40134/08]

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 in December 2005. Officials in that Section inform me that processing of the application has commenced and the file will be forwarded to me for a decision in the coming months.

Garda Stations.

John Perry

Question:

231 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the completion of refurbishment works on a garda station (details supplied) in County Sligo; the finish date for completion of the refurbishment work; if he will ensure that this work is completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40137/08]

The programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation around the country is based on agreed priorities established by An Garda Síochána in consultation with the representative associations. The programme is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works, which has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation.

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that significant refurbishment work on the station referred to by the Deputy has been completed. It is anticipated that the remaining works, which are minor in nature, will be completed in December 2008 at which time the refurbishment works will be complete.

Garda Deployment.

Ulick Burke

Question:

232 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost to the State in providing security and protection during the years 2006, 2007 and to date in 2008 for the proposed development (details supplied) in County Mayo; if these costs are recoverable from the company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40139/08]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the cumulative cost of the policing arrangements for the development referred to in Co. Mayo is approximately €11.1m. This figure is made up of basic salary, overtime, subsistence allowance, travelling expenses and other ancillary costs.

In accordance with section 7 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 An Garda Síochána is statutorily required to provide policing services for the State with the objective of, inter alia, preserving peace and good order, protecting life and property and preventing crime. The policing operation in Co. Mayo meets these objectives. The deployment of Garda resources is an operational matter for local Garda management based on an assessment of the situation pertaining locally and other policing requirements. The costs incurred by the Gardaí relate to their function of preserving public order and no request has been made for the recoupment of such costs from the company.

International Agreements.

Michael Ring

Question:

233 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if documents have been received in relation to a project and organisation from a country (details supplied); if so, when those documents will be signed and returned to that country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40070/08]

Michael Ring

Question:

234 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress made on an inter-Government agreement (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40072/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 233 and 234 together.

I would refer the Deputy to my reply yesterday to Question No. 410 on developments on this issue. As set out there, a second draft of a proposed Bilateral Agreement between Ireland and Belarus, to facilitate visits to Ireland by Chernobyl children, was conveyed to the Belarusian authorities on 26 October. I expect a response from the Belarusian authorities on this very shortly. Once this is received, my Department will move immediately to try to bring this matter to a satisfactory conclusion. The Deputy can be assured of my ongoing personal commitment and engagement in that regard.

Sports Funding.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

235 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if, in view of the stated aim of originally funding the sports hall at schools (details supplied) in County Dublin and the two Tallaght sports halls, he will liaise with the relevant Ministers in the Departments of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Social and Family Affairs, Health and Children, and Education and Science, along with Dublin County Vocational Educational Committee and South Dublin County Council to ensure that a guaranteed funding stream will be provided into 2009 and beyond in order that these halls can remain open as both school and community facilities and continue to provide the essential and valuable service they have been providing to residents living in the adjoining areas. [40260/08]

I refer to the reply to Question No. 344 of 4 November 2008. The position is unchanged.

John Browne

Question:

236 Deputy John Browne asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the amount of national lottery funding allocated to a sports club (details supplied) in County Wexford. [40355/08]

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 club in question has been allocated €260,000 under the programme over the period 2004 to 2007, of which €165,000 is yet to be drawn down.

Departmental Programmes.

Joe McHugh

Question:

237 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will guarantee that all social economy projects announced by his Department will be continued as envisaged when they were announced; if he will guarantee that the White Oaks project will continue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40205/08]

The Deputy will be aware that my Department commenced the Community Services Programme in 2006 following the transfer of 260 groups previously funded under the Social Economy Programme operated by FÁS. The Programme contributes to the costs of community and voluntary groups in providing a diverse range of community services, facilities and social enterprises to deliver critical local services and employment opportunities for particularly disadvantaged groups across the State.

As of the end of October 2008, over 370 individual projects had been approved for funding at an estimated cost of some €48m this year. At present the number of people employed by these projects is in excess of 2,390. The project referred to by the Deputy has a contract with the Programme until the end of December 2009, with a funding commitment of €195,000 to employ one manager and seven full-time equivalent staff members.

The provision in my Department's Vote for the Programme in 2009 (€50.850m) represents an increase on the projected outturn for the current year of just under €3m. I am confident that this funding will be sufficient to meet the contracted costs of the projects within the Programme next year.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Joe McHugh

Question:

238 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will grant back-to-work allowances to persons in receipt of unemployment benefit after a period of three months in view of the downturn in the economy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40184/08]

The back-to-work allowance scheme is part of the department's employment support programmes designed to assist and encourage the long term unemployed, lone parents, people with disabilities and other social welfare recipients to return to the active labour force. These allowances are designed to provide a monetary incentive for people who are long term dependant on social welfare payments to make the return to work financially attractive and viable.

There are two strands to the scheme, the back-to-work allowance (BTWA) for persons who take up employment and the back-to-work enterprise allowance (BTWEA) for persons who become self-employed. Participants receive a tapered percentage of their social welfare payment over a three year period for employees and a four year period for those who become self-employed. Participants may also retain entitlement to certain other secondary benefits.

To qualify for this allowance the application must be submitted in advance and the person must be in receipt of a qualifying payment for a specific length of time immediately prior to commencing employment. In the case of jobseeker's allowance or benefit, the minimum period is two years. The requirement to be in receipt of a relevant social welfare payment for a minimum period has always been a feature of the scheme in order to target the scheme at the most disadvantaged. People who have been unemployed for a very short time are not the main focus of the scheme.

The Department will continue to monitor the effectiveness of the back-to-work scheme to ensure that it continues to assist those furthest from the labour market. However, I believe that the current provisions are adequate and I have no plans at present to modify the scheme.

Chris Andrews

Question:

239 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the amount of money paid out in children’s allowances in 2006 and 2007; the amount of that figure, in the same period, paid out to families of non-Irish nationals; if it is possible to ascertain the figure for children’s allowances paid out to parents working here whose children are not resident here; if so, the amount paid out in 2006 and 2007 to families of non-national, non-resident children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40108/08]

The total expenditure on Child Benefit in 2006 was €2,056M, for 2007 the figure was €2,232m.

The percentage of total Child Benefit expenditure paid to non national customers in respect of resident children is estimated at 13.5% in 2006 and 14% in 2007, this would equate to circa €277m in 2006 and €312m in 2007.

The amount of Child Benefit paid to EU workers in respect of non resident children in 2006 was €2.9m and in 2007 it was €4.77m.

Social Welfare Appeals.

Michael Ring

Question:

240 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo was informed that their illness benefit appeal case had been referred for an oral hearing; the reason it is taking so long for this oral hearing to be scheduled; and the date and time of when the oral hearing will be heard. [40354/08]

Further to my response to PQ 39068/08 on 6 November 2008, I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that the person concerned was notified on 2 September 2008 that her case was referred to an Appeals Officer and that it was proposed to hold an oral hearing in her case. A time and date has not yet been arranged for her hearing, but every effort is being made to have it dealt with as quickly as possible.

During 2007 the average time taken to process all appeals (i.e. those decided summarily and by way of oral hearing) was 22 weeks. However, if allowance was made for the 25% most protracted cases, the average time fell to 14.4 weeks.

In 2008, to the end of September, the Social Welfare Appeals Office has received almost 14,000 appeals, an increase of 22% in respect of the same period in the last few years. Every effort is made to treat these appeals in a fair and equitable manner and within this context to have all appeals dealt with as quickly as possible. Improving processing times remains a major objective of the Social Welfare Appeals Office. However, it is necessary at all times to ensure that progress in this regard is achieved in a manner which is not in conflict with the demands of justice and the requirement that every appeal be fully investigated and examined on all its merits.

The Social Welfare Appeals Office is an office of the Department that is independently responsible for determining appeals against decisions on Social Welfare entitlements.

Army Barracks.

Joe McHugh

Question:

241 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Defence if the closure of both barracks in north Donegal will put some strain on the families of soldiers stationed at Rockhill and Lifford in terms of extended commuting time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40212/08]

The consolidation of the Defence Forces formations into a smaller number of locations is a key objective of the White Paper on Defence. The dispersal of personnel over an extended number of locations is a major impediment to essential collective training. It also imposes increased and unnecessary overheads on the Defence Forces in terms of barrack management, administration, maintenance and security. The consolidation process is designed to facilitate higher training standards, while also freeing up under-utilised resources and personnel for operational duties.

The funding previously realised from the disposal of surplus barracks and properties has, together with pay savings, provided some of the resources required for infrastructure, training-area development and equipment procurement. In this regard, the White Paper states: "the thrust of the Government decisions in the White Paper is based on their recognition of the necessity to enhance the equipment and infrastructure available to the Defence Forces".

The withdrawal of the British Army deployments coupled with reduced paramilitary activity following the Good Friday Agreement has removed the rationale for having seven barracks/posts along the border. These will now be consolidated into three posts. Lifford and Rockhill Barracks is two of four military posts along the border being consolidated. These closures will progress the achievement of the vision of the Defence Forces set out in the White Paper.

This was not an easy decision and obviously the desire is to limit as far as possible the adverse impact that this relocation will have on personnel. I appreciate that the consolidation proposals may result in a level of hardship on some personnel and I have asked my staff and the military authorities to take due consideration of personal circumstances. That said, the current proposals are in the best interests of the Defence Forces and that must be my priority.

The current plan has been put together in close consultation and cooperation with the Defence Forces General Staff. It provides an overall package that will serve the needs of the Defence Forces into the future.

Defence Forces Deployment.

Ulick Burke

Question:

242 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Defence his views on the provision of Army personnel to replace garda personnel in the provision of security and protection at a development (details supplied) in County Mayo; if a financial saving would be made as a result; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40140/08]

The primary responsibility for law and order, including the protection of the internal security of the State, rests with An Garda Síochána. The Defence Forces pursuant to their role of rendering aid to the civil power, assist the Gardaí as required. The role does not extend to general policing which falls solely within the remit of An Garda Síochána.

Army Barracks.

Joe McHugh

Question:

243 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Defence the amount the maintenance of Lifford and Rockhill Army Barracks cost the State in 2007. [40206/08]

Joe McHugh

Question:

244 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Defence the amount by which the annual running cost of Finner Army barracks will increase as a result of the closure of Lifford and Rockhill Army Barracks. [40207/08]

Joe McHugh

Question:

245 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide a financial justification for the closures of Rockhill and Lifford Army Barracks in the form of a cost benefit analysis including envisaged redundancy costs to the State and the envisaged revenue that will be generated by the sale or lease of the two barracks. [40208/08]

Joe McHugh

Question:

246 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Defence the amount of money spent on capital investment and on refurbishment work annually at Rockhill and Lifford Army Barracks since 1997 to date in 2008 in tabular form. [40232/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 243 to 246, inclusive, together.

The annual maintenance costs for Rockhill and Lifford army barracks amount to approximately € 130,000 for 2007. This covers maintenance to buildings such as general repairs, painting and decorating. A further €160,000 approximately is spent on annual running costs such as gas, electricity, heating oil water and waste disposal.

It is intended to relocate personnel from both Lifford and Rockhill to Finner Camp, Donegal. It is envisaged that the extra annual running costs associated with accommodating these staff in Finner Camp will be marginal.

While the closure of barracks and the sale of the properties have provided funding for investment in the past, it has never been the driving factor for the consolidation of defence infrastructure. The consolidation of the Defence Forces formations into a smaller number of locations is a key objective of the White Paper on Defence.

The consolidation process is designed to facilitate higher training standards, while also freeing up under-utilised resources and personnel for operational duties. The dispersal of personnel over an extended number of locations is a major impediment to essential collective training. It also imposes increased and unnecessary overheads on the Defence Forces in terms of barrack management, administration, maintenance and security.

As I have said in response to many questions in this House, Defence Forces properties are kept under constant review in terms of addressing Defence Force requirements and ensuring the most appropriate organisation of the Defence Forces taking account of the operational requirements. The development and increased capability of the modern Defence Forces when taken together with the improved security situation along the border has removed the rationale for having seven barracks/posts along the border and provided the opportunity for consolidation of units in a smaller number of locations. It should also be noted that the British Army has also closed most of its border posts already.

The current plan has been put together in close consultation and cooperation with the Defence Forces General Staff. It provides an overall package that will serve the needs of the Defence Forces into the future.

Expenditure on refurbishment and capital expenditure in tabular form is set as follows as requested.

Details of Expenditure on Refurbishment and Capital Expenditure by Project From 1997 to Date

Rockhill

Cost

Lifford

Cost

Replacement of Water Tanks

27,860

Painting To Administration Block

19,270

Dry / Wet Rot Repairs

193,340

Forecourt Developement

49,800

Re-Roofing Privates Mess

40,350

Prefabricated Buildings

15,120

Resurfacing of Parade Ground

66,660

Upgrade of Kitchen to Dining Hall

136,600

Installation of Emergency Exit Doors

88,400

Resurfacing of Roads and Squares

60,240

Resurfacing of Roads and Squares

73,250

Window Replacement Mens Billet Accommodation

22,280

Refurbishment of Entrance Lobby to Dining Hall

18,810

Window Replacement Officers Mess

19,460

Reffurbishment of Dining Hall & Training Rooms

129,330

New Central Heating Boilers

72,510

Re-Roofing of Mens Dining Hall

75,560

New Waste Recycling Centre

69,140

New Piping to Fire Fighting System

39,460

Upgrade of 25 M Range

68,290

Painting of Entrance & Main Hall

34,390

Re-Roofing of Transport Workshops Block

53,200

Seymour Crawford

Question:

247 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the site, if he goes ahead with closure of Monaghan Army barracks; if it will be made available by public auction or if it will be transferred to another element of the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40244/08]

The consolidation of the Defence Forces formations into a smaller number of locations is a key objective of the White Paper on Defence. The dispersal of personnel over an extended number of locations is a major impediment to essential collective training. It also imposes increased and unnecessary overheads on the Defence Forces in terms of barrack management, administration, maintenance and security. The consolidation process is designed to facilitate higher training standards, while also freeing up under-utilised resources and personnel for operational duties.

The funding previously realised from the disposal of surplus barracks and properties has, together with pay savings, provided some of the resources required for infrastructure, training-area development and equipment procurement. In this regard, the White Paper states: "the thrust of the Government decisions in the White Paper is based on their recognition of the necessity to enhance the equipment and infrastructure available to the Defence Forces".

It is anticipated that Monaghan Army Barracks will be disposed of, taking account of market conditions, so as to maximise the return to the Defence Forces and generate funding for reinvestment in Defence Forces equipment and infrastructure in accordance with Government policy.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Dan Neville

Question:

248 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when works will begin on the sewerage scheme for Hospital, County Limerick (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40143/08]

The Hospital Sewerage Scheme, which is being advanced as part of a grouped project with Drumcollogher, Pallasgreen and Bruff, is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009 as a scheme to start construction in 2009.

Further consideration will be given to Limerick County Council's Preliminary Report for the grouped project, which was received in my Department in September 2008, on receipt of additional information requested from the Council earlier this month.

Fish Stocks.

Martin Ferris

Question:

249 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the statistics on the number of salmon recorded coming up rivers for each year since 2005 to date in 2008. [40109/08]

The information sought by the Deputy in respect to the years 2005 to 2007 can be found in the report Status of Irish Salmon Stocks in 2007 and Precautionary Catch Advice for 2008 compiled by the Standing Scientific Committee (SSC) of the National Salmon Commission. A copy of the report can be downloaded from my Department's website at www.dcenr.gov.ie/natural.

The SSC has recently provided the Department with provisional statistics on salmon stocks for 2008. These details will be posted shortly on my Department's website as part of the public consultation process on the draft Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme Regulations for 2009.

Telecommunications Services.

Joe McHugh

Question:

250 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the date he will provide a better speed broadband to Fanad, County Donegal; his views on whether the lack of a modern broadband service in Fanad undermines business in that area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40204/08]

The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter for the private sector. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.

The role of the Government is to formulate regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.

There are still some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband services. In this regard my Department has undertaken to implement a National Broadband Scheme (NBS). The NBS is designed to deliver broadband to areas where the market has failed to provide services. It will bridge the digital divide, create greater equality in terms of social and economic inclusion and remove the disadvantage caused by a lack of broadband services. It will also facilitate competition in the broadband market in the regions leading to greater choice, quality and value for money to the consumer.

Two bids from eircom Ltd and Hutchison 3G Ireland have been received in response to the NBS Invitation to Tender. These bids are currently being evaluated and the evaluation process is scheduled for completion shortly. The contract is expected to be signed this month.

It is important to note that in addition to fixed landline broadband, otherwise known as Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) or broadband over telephone lines, broadband services are available from competing service providers over multiple platforms including cable, satellite, fixed wireless and increasingly mobile. I understand that Fanad already has broadband on offer from a number of service providers.

Energy Resources.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

251 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the action he has taken in conjunction with his EU colleagues to prevent speculation in the oil market resulting in increased costs to consumers, including the domestic and transport sectors, and with the objective of ensuring that current price reductions on the world markets are reflected in the prices charged to consumers at petrol pumps and in respect of home heating; if his attention has been drawn to the position maintained by OPEC that the exceptionally high prices over the past 12 months for energy are the result of speculation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40353/08]

The Irish oil industry is fully privatised, liberalised and deregulated and there is no price control on petroleum products in Ireland. Retail prices reflect global market price, transportation costs, Euro/Dollar fluctuations and other operating costs.

The continued global volatility in oil prices is a cause for considerable concern for the Commission and EU Member States. Speculation on the markets has been considered to be one factor that has played a role in amplifying price movements and increasing their volatility. A number of strategies are being pursued at EU level to improve the understanding of oil markets and to enhance the transparency of the market. Enhanced availability and quality of oil market data are critical to enhance market transparency and could help price volatility. The Commission is developing proposals to require weekly reporting of commercial oil stocks in the EU. The EU is also working to strengthen dialogue with key oil-producing countries.

In terms of passing on of price reductions in world markets to consumers, it is the case that the prices Irish retailers charge for oil products relate to the refinery price rather than to the price of crude oil. The refinery price for oil products varies with demand and does not always move in line with crude oil prices. There is a time lag between movements in crude prices and refined prices. The Euro/Dollar exchange rate is also a significant factor as oil is traded internationally in dollars.

The National Consumer Agency has specific responsibilities for protecting the rights of consumers. Responsibility for the National Consumer Agency (NCA) lies with my colleague, the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment and she has recently requested the NCA to undertake a survey on retail prices of petrol and diesel. I understand that the NCA will benchmark movements in prices in Ireland against those in other EU countries and will examine the frequency and timeliness in which changes in the wholesale price are being passed on to consumers.

The upward global trend in energy prices and the ongoing volatility generally reinforces the imperative for Ireland to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and to use energy wisely and efficiently. The Government is committed to accelerated delivery of our ambitious targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency, which is essential to ensure a sustainable energy future for the economy and consumers. My Department is working with other key Government Departments on initiatives to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy in electricity, transport and heating, and to implement major energy efficiency and demand management programmes for both domestic and business consumers.

Grant Payments.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

252 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the single farm payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40095/08]

The position is that an application under the Single Payment Scheme /Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on the 12th May 2008. As part of the control procedures under EU legislation governing these Schemes, this application was selected for and was the subject of a ground eligibility and cross compliance inspection.

The file is currently being processed and payment will issue from the 1st December 2008. The delay in this case arose because of the need to clarify a number of issues relating to the parcels claimed by the person named.

Farm Retirement Scheme.

Martin Ferris

Question:

253 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on whether the closure of the early retirement scheme is compatible with the terms of EU Directive 1698/2005. [40111/08]

The Early Retirement Scheme has been suspended for new applications, but it has not been closed, and the decision to suspend entry to the scheme will be reviewed as soon as the current budgetary constraints allow.

Foreshore Licences.

Bobby Aylward

Question:

254 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason for the long delay in processing an application for a foreshore lease lodged in 2002 by Port of Waterford in which all relevant documentation requested has been submitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40112/08]

The development in question is divided into a number of phases. One of the phases relates to the proposed construction of a training wall. The Marine Licence Vetting Committee, which advises my Department on scientific/environmental matters, has recommended an alternative approach to the construction of the training wall and this matter is being examined by my Department.

However as the Port Company wishes to finalise a lease in respect of other aspects of the development, my Department, in conjunction with its specialist advisors, is progressing these aspects of the lease application separately. Every effort is being made to finalise this matter as soon as possible.

Grant Payments.

John Cregan

Question:

255 Deputy John Cregan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when payment of an organic farming scheme grant will be made to a person (detail supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40121/08]

Where a valid application has been submitted, advance payments of 75% under the EU regulations governing the Organic Farming Scheme can issue only when all administrative checks on all 2008 applications for REPS, the Organic Farming Scheme and the Single Payment Scheme are completed. This work is still ongoing with a view to beginning payment this month. The balancing 25% payment will follow when all 2008 REPS and Organic Farming Scheme on-farm inspections have taken place.

Fallen Animal Collection Scheme.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

256 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the amount of tonnes of meat and bone meal produced in each of the past ten years; the amount it cost to deal with this product on a yearly basis both in terms of storage and disposal; the position regarding the action being taken with this product in 2008 which makes him believe that the return from this product will compensate for the withdrawal of €14 million from the fallen animals scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40132/08]

In the aftermath of the EU ban in November 2000 on the feeding of MBM to cattle, the Exchequer supported the livestock and meat sector by subsidizing the rendering and destruction of the product (costing €146m between 2001 and 2003), as did most other EU countries. The costs of dealing with MBM have since largely been passed back to industry.

The storage of MBM cost the State €25.3m in respect of material placed in store during 2001 and 2002. Storage costs were subsequently passed back to industry and are now a matter for commercial negotiation.

Compilation of statistics by my Department on the production and disposal of meat and bone meal (MBM) commenced in 1999. The amount produced, the costs of disposal incurred in respect specifically of MBM stored on behalf of State and the payments made to the rendering industry under the Fallen Animals Scheme up to 2007 are as follows:

MBM Produced

Disposal costs incurred by the State

Payments to rendering plants under the Fallen Animals Scheme

’000s tonnes

€m

1999

149

2000

137

2001

166

1,192,533

2002

145

8.8

17,038,246

2003

138

17.7

15,706,183

2004

139

12.3

12,178,708

2005

143

11.7

13,398,418

2006

152

5.2

12,709,344

2007

150

0.2

13,643,824

In the aftermath of the EU ban all MBM had to be stored or exported for disposal by incineration or co-incineration. There are now a number of additional outlets for this material. MBM is being used to make fertiliser, it is being used as an ingredient in petfood and also as a co-fuel in the cement industry. My Department is also aware of a number of proposals to use MBM as a fuel for generating electricity.

The State has provided substantial funding towards the disposal of MBM over the past decade. This was justified as part of our response to the BSE crisis and as a means of protecting our valuable beef industry. In view of our current budgetary constraints, the greatly reduced incidence of BSE, the imminent increase in the BSE testing age to 48 months and the increasing number of outlets for MBM it is now appropriate to reduce the level of State funding in this area. My officials are conducting ongoing discussions with representatives of the rendering industry, fallen animal collectors and farmers on this matter.

Grant Payments.

John Perry

Question:

257 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a farmer (details supplied) in County Sligo will receive their REP scheme four payment; if he will ensure that it is paid as soon as possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40176/08]

Advance payments of 75% under the EU regulations governing REPS 4 can only issue when all administrative checks on all 2008 applications for REPS 4 and the 2008 Single Payment Scheme are completed. This work is still ongoing with a view to beginning payment this month. The balancing 25% payment will follow when all 2008 REPS on-farm inspections have taken place.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

258 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan will be granted their area aid grant and single payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40243/08]

The position is that an application under the Single Payment Scheme /Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on the 12th May 2008. As part of the control procedures under EU legislation governing these Schemes, this application was selected for and was the subject of a ground eligibility and cross compliance inspection. The file is currently being processed and payment will issue from the 1st December 2008. The delay in this case arose because of the need to clarify a number of issues relating to the parcels claimed by the person named.

Special Educational Needs.

James Reilly

Question:

259 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will reinstate the home tuition grant in respect of a child (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40141/08]

James Reilly

Question:

268 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will reinstate the home tuition grant for a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40138/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 259 and 268 together.

I am pleased to advise the Deputy that a home tuition grant has been sanctioned for the child in question and my officials have confirmed this in a recent conversation with the parent.

School Staffing.

Brian Hayes

Question:

260 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Question No. 513 of 4 November 2008, if he will identify the person who organised the meeting between his Department officials and the school in question on 6 October 2008; the person who requested such a meeting; the number of other post-primary schools which have been granted as an exceptional matter additional hours over and above the existing allocation process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40091/08]

The meeting held with my Department was arranged by officials following protracted correspondence and representations by the Joint Managerial Body/Association of Management of Catholic Secondary Schools. This meeting was exceptional in so far as the Independent Appeals Committee had concluded its work for the 2008/09 school year. It took this meeting with officials to prompt the school to act appropriately and the school provided assurances for the first time that it would address the core issue of how in future it would operate within its approved allocation. This was the only school granted additional hours as an exceptional matter.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

261 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Question No. 502 of 4 November 2008, the effect Budget 2009 will have on class sizes in each of the schools (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40096/08]

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

262 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Question No. 503 of 4 November 2008, the effect Budget 2009 will have on teacher numbers in each of the schools (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40097/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 261 and 262 together.

The 2009 Budget required difficult choices to be made across all areas of public expenditure. These decisions were made to control public expenditure and to ensure sustainability in the long run. In this respect Education while protected to a much greater extent than most other areas of public expenditure could not be totally spared.

Prudent management of the Government finances is particularly important at this time of global economic uncertainty when tax revenue has fallen so significantly and when world economic conditions are so serious. Even with the Budget measures in place there will still be a significantly increased borrowing requirement in 2009.

The Government's commitment to education is clear both from its track record over the past decade in providing substantial additional resources, most notably extra teachers to meet previously unmet needs and from the programme the Government set for itself when it came into office. A lot has changed in the past year and the first and foremost imperative is that we stabilise the public finances. It is only by doing so that we can shelter gains made and put ourselves in the position of being able to make improvements in the future. What we are doing in primary schools from September next is staffing them on the same basis as they were staffed just over one school year ago.

As I already stated, in terms of the position in respect of any one school for September 2009, schools are currently returning data to my Department in relation to their enrolment as of 30 September last. My Department has commenced processing this data although all schools have not yet made their returns. The allocation process including notification to schools will commence early in the New Year. The allocation process includes appellate mechanisms under which schools can appeal against the allocation due to them under the staffing schedules. The final allocation to a school is also a function of the operation of the redeployment panels which provide for the retention of a teacher in an existing school if a new post is not available within the agreed terms of the scheme.

School Staffing.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

263 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Question No. 504 of 4 November 2008, the effect Budget 2009 will have on the number of language support teachers in each of the schools (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40098/08]

The budget measures will mean that the level of language support will be reduced from a maximum of six extra teachers per school to a maximum of two teachers per school, as was the case before 2007. However, the ongoing requirement for current levels of language support teachers in schools should also start to reduce in line with lower levels of immigration and in line with improvements in the levels of proficiency of those pupils for whom this resource has been available.

Nonetheless, schools that require language support will still be entitled to get it. We still envisage having over 1,400 language support teachers in our schools in September 2009 and up to about 500 other teachers in part-time posts. By any standards this is a very significant resource and the challenge will be to ensure that it is used to maximum effect.

As I announced on budget day we will also provide for some alleviation for the position of those schools where there is a significant concentration of newcomer pupils as a proportion of the overall enrolment. This will be done on a case by case basis.

The allocation process for language support teachers is an annual one and existing provision is not rolled over automatically. Schools will be applying afresh in the spring and early summer of 2009 for the 2009/10 school year, based on their assessment of the prospective needs of existing pupils and any new pupils they are enrolling. The position for individual schools will become clear at that stage.

Moreover, OECD research in this field (PISA 2006) shows that Ireland is the OECD country with the highest distribution of newcomers across schools meaning that schools with higher concentrations of newcomer children are relatively unusual. ESRI data also shows that only a small percentage of schools have high concentrations of newcomer children.

I realise that standards are not simply achieved by supplying teaching resources and that the quality of the supports that the child receives and the inclusive atmosphere cultivated in schools are important factors influencing the quality of learning achieved by migrant children. My Department recognises that we must monitor and review the educational experiences that are provided to migrant students so that we can improve the quality and effectiveness of our provision. The Department is undertaking a range of research to consider the question of integration in schools and how best to deploy our resources to ensure that all the children in our schools can benefit from learning in an intercultural Ireland.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

264 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Question No. 508 of 4 November 2008, the effect Budget 2009 will have on substitute cover in each of the schools (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40099/08]

The decision made in the Education Budget for 2009 is to suspend substitution cover for two categories of absences. The two categories of absences for which substitution cover will not be provided for in 2009 are uncertified sick leave at primary and second level and official school business at second level. Substitution cover will continue to be provided for all other categories of absences currently available such as certified sick leave and maternity leave.

The supervision/ substitution scheme will also continue to operate for all schools with teachers continuing to be paid an annual payment of €1,789 in addition to salary for participation in the scheme.

Schools Refurbishment.

Martin Ferris

Question:

265 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application for a furniture replacement grant by a school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40100/08]

My Department received an application for funding for replacement furniture from the school in question. This application has been considered for funding. However, in light of the competing demands on the available budget, it was not possible to approve funding to replace existing furniture at this time.

The Board of Management submitted an appeal against the decision and will be advised of the outcome as soon as possible.

School Curriculum.

Mary Upton

Question:

266 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science when a school (details supplied) in Dublin 12 will receive the promised funding for the leaving certificate technology programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40103/08]

Catherine Byrne

Question:

272 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a school (details supplied) in Dublin 12 has not received a grant for the teaching of technology despite being given the go-ahead to teach this subject as part of a pilot project; if he will make contact with the school to clarify its position as regards outstanding funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40221/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 266 and 272 together.

The National Council for Curriculum & Assessment has developed a new syllabus at Leaving Certificate for Technology; prior to this the subject was available to Junior Certificate level only. The subject was first introduced into Post-Primary schools in September 2007 and will be examined for the first time by the State Examinations Commission in June 2009.

15 additional schools were invited to introduce the Leaving Certificate Technology syllabus in September 2008 as part of a phased implementation plan. My Department has contacted the Principals of each of the additional schools to advise that in light of the competing demands on the available budget, it was not possible to approve funding at this time but that it is anticipated that the grant will be paid early in the new year.

School Staffing.

Pat Breen

Question:

267 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will review his decision to withdraw substitution cover from schools in 2009; if his attention has been drawn to the implications of this proposal for children, parents and teachers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40113/08]

Notwithstanding the increase of €302 million in the Education Budget for 2009, in making the announcement of the Budget measures for education, I stressed that tough choices had to be made in meeting the needs of the education sector in these difficult times. The resources available to the Department have meant that these choices have been very challenging. The decision made to suspend substitution cover for uncertified sick leave at primary and second level and official school business in second level schools was a difficult one.

Substitution will continue to be provided for all other categories of absences currently available including maternity leave and certified sick leave. The existing arrangements will continue to apply for the supervision/substitution scheme with teachers continuing to be paid an annual payment in addition to salary for participation in the scheme.

As we manage through this difficult period I am asking teachers in all schools to co-operate fully with school managers in coping with this change in the interest of students. I am also requesting the school managerial bodies to ensure that the supervision/substitution scheme is operated with maximum effectiveness in all schools.

Question No. 268 answered with Question No. 259.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

Brian Hayes

Question:

269 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science when, in respect of the 64 properties which have been offered to the State from the religious orders under the terms of the indemnity agreement negotiated in 2002, the State will be in possession of these properties; if the 64 properties yield the €66 million which was part of the original deal, in view of the fact that the property market has generally fallen back in recent years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40180/08]

Under the terms of the Indemnity Agreement reached with the Religious Congregations on 5th June 2002, the Congregations agreed to make a contribution of €128 million towards the cost of the Redress Scheme. This sum was broken down as follows:

Property Transfers €76.86m;

Cash Contribution €41.14m;

Provision of Counselling Services €10m.

In actual terms, whilst the overall figure of €128 million has not altered, the form in which it has or is to be transferred to the State has altered somewhat in terms of the property and cash contributions. This is because the Indemnity Agreement allows for cash to be substituted for property. The composition of the €128million has changed to the following:

Property Transfers €66m;

Cash Contribution €52m;

Provision of Counselling Services €10m.

I can confirm that the full cash contribution of €52m has been received, including that which was accepted in lieu of properties. My Department has also received confirmation that the contributing congregations have provided counselling services to the value of €10m.

As a result of the Indemnity Agreement, my Department agreed in principle with CORI that a total of 64 properties would be accepted, subject to good and marketable title and agreed valuations. Valuations of the individual properties were fully agreed and fixed at 2002 values. Consequently, the fact that the value of the properties may have fluctuated in the intervening period does not affect the value of the properties as determined by the Agreement.

Furthermore, it should also be noted that the current market value of the properties is not critical from the State's point of view in that the vast majority have already been earmarked for specific purposes, for transfer to and use by various charitable organisations and state bodies. The issue of current market value would only arise where the State intended to sell on a transferred property. The value to the State in receiving the properties in question lies in their use by the recipients for various health, education and other social purposes.

Given the complex and time consuming nature of property transfers, it is difficult to state with any degree of certainly when the entire portfolio of property will be fully and finally transferred to the State. However, I am anxious to point out that whilst the legalities have not been finalised in all cases, with the exception of two, the properties are currently in use or are available for use by the transferee. Currently, properties to the value of €26.79m have been fully transferred and a further €7.475m worth of properties have been handed over where legal arrangements are almost finalised. This leaves a balance of properties valued at €31.735 where the legal transfer remains to be completed. However, in the vast majority of the properties, good and marketable title has been fully established or the properties have been physically transferred to and are in possession of the State or 3rd Parties but there are some legal formalities to be finalised. In a small number of cases, consideration may have to be given to accepting an alternative property or cash where good and marketable title cannot be established.

Every effort will continue to be made by officials of my Department, through the State's legal representatives, together with the representatives of the congregations and recipient bodies, to ensure that all outstanding matters are finalised.

School Staffing and Grant Payments.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

270 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Science the enrolment at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; the number of teachers, permanent, temporary or part-time, assigned to this school; the number of special needs assistants employed at the school; the details of other staff assigned to this school; the capitation, grant aid and so on made by his Department to this school in each of the past three years; the value of capital expenditure by his Department at the school since 1998 to date in 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40202/08]

My Department interacts with over 3,200 primary schools on many day to day issues including their staffing allocation and grant payments. It is not possible to compile the information requested by the Deputy at individual school level given the inordinate amount of time it would take and balanced against the many other competing demands on my Department's resources.

Departmental Correspondence.

Michael Ring

Question:

271 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will arrange for his Department to relinquish its interest in a portion of a site (details supplied) in County Mayo in order that a matter can be progressed further. [40215/08]

I take it that the Deputy is referring to a portion of the site of The Neale National School, Co. Mayo, Roll Number 12350T.

My Department has received correspondence in relation to the partial surrender of a portion of the above school site for the establishment of a Playschool. This correspondence is currently under active consideration by officials in my Department. My officials will revert to the Solicitors in due course.

Question No. 272 answered with Question No. 266.

Early Retirement Scheme.

Finian McGrath

Question:

273 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [40235/08]

It was recently announced that the Early Retirement Scheme for teachers, which had operated on a pilot basis since 1996, has been suspended in all sectors until further notice. The Scheme, which consisted of 3 strands, was a voluntary scheme. Like other programmes under my Department's remit, the continuance of the pilot scheme is subject to available resources and to changes in Government policy. While the scheme has proven to be a useful management tool in the school system in the past, the current budgetary constraints mean that sometimes difficult decisions must be taken in order to meet the economic challenges faced by the country.

Notwithstanding the suspension of the Early Retirement Scheme, other schemes of retirement before normal pension age remain available to teachers. Teachers can avail of voluntary retirement at 55 years of age where a teacher has completed 35 years service or cost-neutral early retirement.

Under the 55/35 year rule a teacher, other than a new entrant appointed after 1 April 2004, who has reached the age of 55 years and has at least 35 years of actual pensionable service, may retire voluntarily. There is no actuarial reduction in benefits. Where the teacher has less than 35 years actual service, credit for certain pre-service training is given in order to assist teachers to reach the 35-year threshold for retirement. For example, a teacher, aged 55 years, who has undertaken 4 years pre-service training and has completed 33 years actual pensionable service, may retire. Benefits would be paid with immediate effect in that instance and would be based on the actual pensionable service. I understand that the person in question, who will reach age 55 in early 2009, had completed 4 years pre-service training. Provided the person remains in pensionable service until the end of the 2008/09 school year, he will then fulfil the requirement for voluntary retirement under the 55/35 year rule as he will have in excess of 33 years reckonable service.

Under cost-neutral early retirement, a teacher aged 50 years or over (55 years in the case of new entrants appointed after 1 April 2004) has the option of an immediate cost-neutral early retirement pension and lump sum on resignation. The cost-neutral early retirement benefits are actuarially reduced to take account of the early payment of the lump sum and the longer period over which pension would be paid. The person in question is free to apply now for cost-neutral early retirement.

School Staffing.

Finian McGrath

Question:

274 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will support a school (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [40236/08]

The 2009 Budget required difficult choices to be made across all areas of public expenditure. These decisions were made to control public expenditure and to ensure sustainability in the long run. In this respect Education while protected to a much greater extent than most other areas of public expenditure could not be totally spared.

Prudent management of the Government finances is particularly important at this time of global economic uncertainty when tax revenue has fallen so significantly and when world economic conditions are so serious. Even with the Budget measures in place there will still be a significantly increased borrowing requirement in 2009. The Government's commitment to education is clear both from its track record over the past decade in providing substantial additional resources, most notably extra teachers to meet previously unmet needs and from the programme the Government set for itself when it came into office. A lot has changed in the past year and the first and foremost imperative is that we stabilise the public finances. It is only by doing so that we can shelter gains made and put ourselves in the position of being able to make improvements in the future.

What we are doing in primary schools from September next is staffing them on the same basis as they were staffed just over one school year ago. In terms of the position in respect of any one school for September 2009, schools are currently returning data to my Department in relation to their enrolment as of 30 September last. My Department has commenced processing this data although all schools have not yet made their returns. The allocation process including notification to schools will commence early in the New Year. The allocation process includes appellate mechanisms under which schools can appeal against the allocation due to them under the staffing schedules. The final allocation to a school is also a function of the operation of the redeployment panels which provide for the retention of a teacher in an existing school if a new post is not available within the agreed terms of the scheme.

Third Level Fees.

Jack Wall

Question:

275 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on a submission (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40248/08]

The issue of the re-introduction of third level fees, to which the Deputy refers, should be viewed in the context of the wider funding of higher education. As the Deputy will be aware, the Government is investing unprecedented levels of public funding in higher education. In 2008 some €2 billion is being invested in our third level sector. In contributing to the achievement of national policy goals for social and economic development into the future, it can be anticipated that there will be continuing significant resource needs for our higher education sector. It is appropriate to raise questions around how future additional resource needs can be met and in particular how our higher education institutions can be supported in their development ambitions through a widening of their non-exchequer sources of income. The introduction of a form of student contribution is one possibility that merits debate. My Department is, at present, conducting a review of policy options relating to the introduction of a form of student contribution. It is my intention, following completion of the review currently underway, to bring proposals to Government in relation to the available options.

Vocational Education Committees.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

276 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding provided to the vocational educational committees for 2009 versus 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40255/08]

This Government's continued prioritisation of education over the last 11 years is evidenced from our investment in 2009 of €9.6 billion — over treble what it was in 1997.

The increase of €302m in the Education budget for 2009 is therefore a real achievement in the current economic climate. Education is one of only three Government Departments to have increased funding in 2009.

The provision for funding to Vocational Educational Committees for 2009 shows an increase of more than 5% over the 2008 level. Funding to VECs for 2008 totalled €887.5m and this will rise to €936m in 2009.

VECs are given a high level of autonomy in the management and appropriation of their budgets. This allows each VEC to distribute its allocations in line with their priorities and perceptions of need.

The provision that I have made, in the context of the 2009 estimates, for this significant increase in the funding of VECs is a clear demonstration of my commitment to prioritise available resources in order to best address the needs of learners availing of services provided through the network of VECs.

Community Sports Halls.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

277 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science his intentions for the continuation of funding for community sports halls linked to schools (details supplied) in County Dublin along with two other facilities in Tallaght, following the closure of dormant accounts funding; if the decision to appoint the vocational educational committee as the supervisory body means that funding should be primarily channelled through VEC funding; if he is satisfied that the VEC has sufficient funds to cover the operational costs of the sports hall; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40256/08]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

278 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will review the decision to appoint the Dublin County Vocational Educational Committee as the body responsible for ensuring that the sports hall in Palmerstown and north Clondalkin referred to in previous questions remain open and operational after dormant accounts funding dries up on 31 December 2008 in view of the fact that the VEC says that it does not have the money; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40257/08]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

279 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the stated aim of originally funding the sports hall at schools (details supplied) in County Dublin and the two Tallaght sports halls, he will liaise with the relevant Ministers in the Departments of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Social and Family Affairs, Health and Children, and Arts, Sport and Tourism, along with Dublin County Vocational Educational Committee and South Dublin County Council, to ensure that a guaranteed funding stream will be provided into 2009 and beyond in order that these halls can remain open as both school and community facilities and continue to provide the essential and valuable service they have been providing to residents living in the adjoining areas. [40258/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 277 to 279, inclusive, together.

The position is that the allocated funding will provide for the operation of the sports halls referred to by the Deputy until the end of 2008. My Department does not fund community facilities and I regret to say that it has not been found possible to identify an alternative source of funds that would enable the facilities to remain available for community usage on an ongoing basis. In the circumstances, my Department has written to the relevant stakeholders to advise them of the position.

School Accommodation.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

280 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the position of plans to find a new permanent accommodation for a school (details supplied) in Dublin 22. [40263/08]

Agreement has been reached to provide permanent accommodation for the school to which the Deputy refers on a V.E.C. owned site.

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.

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