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 10, inclusive, answered orally.

Questions Nos. 11 to 59, inclusive, resubmitted.

Questions Nos. 60 to 71, inclusive, answered orally.

Question No. 72 answered with Question No. 67.

Defence Forces Medical Service.

Terence Flanagan

Question:

73 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Defence if the centralised medical command structure recommended for the medical services by consultants (details supplied) has been established; if not, when same will be established; if, as recommended, this medical command, or central medical unit, will be led by a line (non-clinical) officer; the rank of the officer who will lead this unit during the change process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9318/10]

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

84 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Defence the progress made since 1 January 2010 regarding the implementation of the recommendations of the PA report on the medical services required by the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9175/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 73 and 84 together.

As has been stated previously in the House, the PA Report reviewed the medical services required for the Defence Forces in light of their roles and operations, assessed the current arrangements for the provision of medical services and proposed a model for future delivery of medical services.

The Consultants recommended a programme of major change. The high level recommendations include:

a Centralised Command Structure for the Medical Corps;

the creation of a Medical Services Management and Administrative Function. This structure will provide strategic planning, resource allocation and overall responsibility for the management and delivery of the medical service;

the development of Medical Officer Lead Care Teams together with a re-focussing of medical staff on appropriate clinical tasks.

The structure and systems recommended have been designed to meet the demands and needs of the modern Defence Forces at home and overseas and provide Medical Officers with a fulfilling and rewarding career.

The governance structure proposed in the report for the delivery of change in this area has been put in place. A dedicated Programme Group with civilian and military representatives is now co-ordinating a range of projects. It is progressing a number of the PA recommendations including the structure of the Medical Corps, the alignment of Defence Forces and Medical Corps strategies and the development of medical information systems. Work is also progressing on the recommendations on training and education, clinical issues and the centralised command structure, along with financial arrangements and outsourcing. A number of the working groups that are in place dealing with these issues have already made recommendations, which are being considered by the Steering Committee.

The Programme Group that has been charged with overseeing the progress of the Working Groups briefed the Steering Group on progress in January. The five working groups that have been established continued to meet regularly since the beginning of the year. Three of the Working Groups have recently submitted reports. The Training and Education group and the Organisation and Establishment Working Group have submitted Interim Reports and the Clinical Review Group has submitted it's January monthly report. The Steering Group will consider these in the near future.

The Steering Group has approved the new headquarters organisation for the unit which now includes a Line officer commanding the medical corps. The Centralised Command Structure for the Medical Corps has not been established. PA did not identify structures, numbers and processes within the Centralised Command Structure in detail, these have yet to be finalised. A number of Working Groups are looking at these issues and when they have issued their final reports implementation of the centralised command structure will commence. However it has already been agreed that the rank of the Line Officer Commanding the Centralised Medical Corps during the change process will be that of Colonel.

It is planned that the new Centralised Medical Corps will be established before the end of the year.

Defence Forces Promotions.

Seán Barrett

Question:

74 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for Defence the number of promotions by rank and appointment that have occurred within the Defence Forces since 20 January 2010; the number of acting up appointments made since that date; further to Parliamentary Question No. 69 of 20 January 2010, if all promotions have been implemented, and if not, the timescale by which all promotions will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9260/10]

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

81 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Defence the number of appointments that have been filled to date in 2010 in view of the recent decision to approve 50 promotions at senior level within the Defence Forces; when the outstanding posts will be filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9192/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

I propose to take Questions Nos.74 and 81 together.

Resulting from the Government Decision regarding the reduction of public service numbers and the reduced budgetary provision available for 2009, recruitment, promotions and acting up appointments in the Permanent Defence Forces were suspended.

However, in order to maintain the ongoing operational capability of the Defence Forces, a limited number of exceptions to the application of the measures to the Permanent Defence Force were sought in a submission to the Minister for Finance, in June 2009. The need for limited recruitment, promotions and acting appointments for the Defence Forces was outlined.

As was announced on the 24 November 2009, the Minister for Finance approved an allocation of 50 promotions, for the Permanent Defence Force. These promotions were approved to address priority operational and command requirements of the Permanent Defence Force.

In order that these promotions were allocated in a manner that gives protection to the operational capacity of the Defence Forces, Military Management reviewed existing vacancies in all ranks across the organisation as a whole, so as to prioritise those to be filled from the approved promotions.

Following on from the Military review and the identification of priority posts, a total of 9 Officer promotions and 15 enlisted promotions have been completed to date. The 15 enlisted promotions which include 11 Sergeants, 1 Flight Sergeant and 3 Company Quarter Master Sergeants (CQMS) have been completed since 20 January last. A further 12 enlisted promotions will be completed in the coming weeks as soon as the administrative procedures relating to them have been completed. A number of senior technical officer vacancies also remain to be filled. The residual approved promotions will be used to fill priority posts arising in the next few months.

In addition, since 20 January last, 2 posts have been filled through acting up appointments. Of these 1 officer is in a home appointment and 1 non-commissioned officer is in an overseas appointment.

Officials in the Department are continuing to engage with the Military Authorities in relation to the review of structures and posts required to meet the operational requirements of the Defence Forces in light of the Government decision to maintain a complement of 10,000 personnel.

I am glad to say that while these are challenging times, the Defence Forces have risen to the challenge and are organised, equipped and staffed in a manner, which will ensure that they can continue to deliver the services required of them by Government.

Naval Service Patrols.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

75 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Defence the number of patrolling days undertaken by Naval Service vessels in each year from 2005 to 2009; the planned number for 2010; if he has had discussions with the fishing industry or the Customs Authority regarding the implications for fishery protection and drug smuggling preventative measures for the planned reduction in patrolling days; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9194/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

The Naval Service achieved the following patrol days in each year from 2005 to 2009:

Year	Patrol Days
2005	1,681
2006	1,658
2007	1,661
2008	1,658
2009	1,588

As part of the Estimates process for 2010, the Department sought to implement measures which would bring about the savings or the equivalent thereof as identified in the Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programme. As part of this process and to achieve a reduction in current expenditure, the Minister for Defence proposed a cut to the Naval Service patrol days in 2010. The planned number of patrol days for 2010 is 1,480.

The Naval Service has a concurrent multi-functional role as the State's primary seagoing agency. On any given patrol day the Naval Service can carry out a number of taskings on behalf of other state agencies such as the Sea Fisheries Protection Agency (SFPA), an Garda Síochána and the Customs Service of the Revenue Commissioners.

The SFPA is Ireland's competent authority for seafood safety and sea fisheries protection. Officials from my Department and the Naval Service are making arrangements to meet with the SFPA to discuss its priorities and how to optimise fishery patrol days to achieve those priorities having regard to the reduction in the over all number of patrol days.

Naval Service patrols at sea undoubtedly act as a deterrent in the fight against illegal fishing and in combating drug trafficking. However, increasingly these roles are governed by intelligence-led operations and greater co-operation between both national and international agencies.

I am therefore fully confident that the Naval Service will continue to meet all taskings assigned to them within the revised patrol pattern for 2010.

Question No. 76 answered with Question No. 67.

Defence Forces Strength.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

77 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Defence if, in view of the drop in the numbers in the Defence Forces, there are signs that there are difficulties in maintaining a credible organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9179/10]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

93 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the strength of the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps; the degree to which numbers have fluctuated in each of the past three years to date; the number who have retired or taken early retirement; his plans for further recruitment in 2010 and future years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9238/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 77 and 93 together.

I am advised by the Military Authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force as at 31 January 2010, the latest date for which figures are available, was 9,906 comprising 8,070 Army, 805 Air Corps and 1,031 Naval Service. The figures for the last three years are as follows:

Year	Air Corps	Naval Service	Army	Total
2009	801	1,037	8,095	9,933
2008	832	1,070	8,506	10,408
2007	845	1,077	8,512	10,434

The total number of personnel that have left the Permanent Defence Forces on an annual basis since 2007 is as follows:

Year	Number
2007	694
2008	579
2009	517
2010	38

I am acutely aware of the impact of the moratorium on the Defence Forces in light of the very high turnover rate that is part of any military organisation. The impact is being monitored on an ongoing basis and specific requirements have been identified to the Minister for Finance regarding limited exceptions to the moratorium which are targeted at maintaining the operational capability and command arrangements of the Permanent Defence Force.

The Defence Forces have improved in every respect since 2000 through the implementation of the White Paper. This represents a significant public service success story. However the economic reality is such that the Defence organisation must contribute to the correction of the public finances. I am advised that at this time the Defence Forces retain the capacity to undertake the tasks laid down by Government both at home and overseas. It is intended, within the resources available, to retain the capacity of the organization to operate effectively across all roles while contributing to the necessary public service commitments.

Defence Forces Equipment.

Denis Naughten

Question:

78 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Defence his plans to review the resources and equipment available to the Defence Forces in view of the recent weather conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9168/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

The Framework for Major Emergency Management sets out a structure enabling the Principal Response Agencies (An Garda Síochána, the Health Service Executive and Local Authorities) to prepare for, and make a coordinated response to, major emergencies resulting from events such as severe weather. The Defence Forces are not a principal response agency for such emergency situations that arise.

Requests for Aid to the Civil Authorities are met within the normal Defence Forces means and capabilities, and the Department of Defence does not purchase specialised equipment for the Defence Forces with the sole purpose of rendering Aid to the Civil Authorities. However, certain vehicles and equipment held by the Defence Forces to meet their current operational requirements can also be utilised to provide assistance to the civil authorities, as was done during the recent severe weather. Some of the equipment used included 4x4 Patrol vehicles, 4x4, 6x6 and 8x8 trucks, helicopters and boats.

Overseas Missions.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

79 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding requests from the EU or UN for Irish troop deployments on peacekeeping or peace enforcement missions at various locations; the extent to which such deployments are planned for the foreseeable future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9239/10]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

198 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the anticipated extent of overseas peacekeeping and peace enforcement missions in the next 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9649/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 79 and 198 together.

Ireland has offered, through the UN Standby Arrangements System (UNSAS), to provide up to 850 military personnel for overseas service at any one time. This figure equates to some 10% of Ireland's standing Army (excluding Reserves) and demonstrates Ireland's commitment to the cause of international peace. This is the maximum sustainable commitment that Ireland can make to overseas peacekeeping operations.

Ireland is currently contributing 759 Defence Forces personnel to 11 different missions throughout the world. Full details of all personnel currently serving overseas are listed in the following tabular statement.

The main overseas missions, in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed, are the United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic and Chad (MINURCAT) with 420 personnel, the NATO-led International Security presence (KFOR) in Kosovo with 236 personnel and the EU-led operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, ALTHEA, with 44 personnel. Other personnel are serving as monitors and observers with the United Nations and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Staff are also deployed at the organisational headquarters of the EU, OSCE and NATO.

As outlined in the budget in December 2009, it has been decided that the Defence Forces commitments to overseas peace support operations will be scaled back in 2010 as one of the budgetary expenditure reductions. The operations where Ireland will be reducing its commitments will be KFOR in Kosovo and Operation ALTHEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In April 2010 at the next rotation, it is planned to draw-down Irish personnel from KFOR from the current 236 personnel to 50 (approx) and to retain a small residual component post October 2010. In July 2010, at the end of the next rotation to Operation ALTHEA, Ireland will reduce its current contribution of 44 personnel to approx 5 personnel.

With regard to the United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic and Chad (MINURCAT), the UN mandate for this mission is due to expire on 15 March 2010. The question of the renewal of the mandate and the duration of any such renewal is currently under discussion at the UN and discussions in this regard are also ongoing with the Chadian authorities.

I am aware that President Deby has written to the UN Secretary General suggesting that the MINURCAT mission should be brought to a conclusion and withdrawn. It will be a matter for the Security Council to decide as and when a mission should be concluded.

Subject to renewal of the mandate by the UN Security Council, Ireland is committed to maintaining the Defence Forces contingent in Chad with MINURCAT for at least another year. However, should the UN mandate end, then the Defence Forces will withdraw and it is envisaged that a period of consolidation and renewal would be allowed for training and equipment maintenance before the Defence Forces would undertake a further mission. The costs of repatriation of Irish troops and equipment from MINURCAT would be met by the UN.

With regard to future deployments, Ireland receives requests, from time to time, in relation to participation in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis. When considering any particular request, the existence of realistic objectives and a clear mandate, which has the potential to contribute to a political solution, consideration of how the mission relates to the priorities of Irish foreign policy and the degree of risk involved are amongst the factors considered.

Apart from a recent EU request to despatch members of the Permanent Defence Force for service with the proposed EU Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) military mission to contribute to the training of Somali Security Forces (EUTM Somalia) to be carried out in Uganda, no other deployments are planned or envisaged at this time. In response to the EU request, the Government decided yesterday to despatch five (5) members of the Permanent Defence Force for service with the proposed EU training mission, which is scheduled to be launched in May 2010.

Members of the Permanent Defence Force Serving Overseas as of 19 February 2010
		Number
1.	UN Missions
(i)	UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) HQ	8
(ii)	UNTSO (United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation) — Israel, Syria and Lebanon	12
(iii)	MINURSO (United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara)	3
(iv)	MONUC (United Nations Mission in Democratic Republic of Congo)	3
(v)	UNOCI (United Nations Mission in Ivory Coast)	2
(vi)	MINURCAT (United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic and Chad) — HQ	13
	MINURCAT (United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic and Chad) — 102nd Infantry Battalion	407
	TOTAL	448
	UN Mandated Missions
(vii)	EUFOR (EU-led Operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina)	44
(viii)	KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) — HQ	20
	KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) 41st Inf Group	216
(ix)	ISAF (International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan)	7
	TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING WITH UN MISSIONS	735
2.	Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)
(i)	OSCE Mission to Bosnia & Herzegovina	2
(ii)	OSCE Mission in Belgrade — Serbia	1
(iii)	Staff Officer, Higher Level Planning Group, Vienna	1
	TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING OSCE	4
3.	EU Military Staff
	Brussels	7
4.	Nordic Battlegroup HQ Staff — Sweden	4
5.	Military Representatives/Advisers/Staff
(i)	Military Adviser, Permanent Mission to UN, New York	1
(ii)	Military Adviser, Irish Delegation to OSCE, Vienna	1
(iii)	Military Representative to EU (Brussels)	4
(iv)	Liaison Office of Ireland, NATO/PfP (Brussels)	2
(v)	Military Representative to NATO/PfP Co-ordination Cell/Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE), Mons, Belgium	1
	TOTAL NUMBER OF DEFENCE FORCES PERSONNEL SERVING OVERSEAS	759

Military Archives.

Richard Bruton

Question:

80 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Defence if reports have been commissioned into the status and needs of the military archives; if the current premises are suitable for the protection, usage and storage of the archives in the possession of the military archives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9269/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

The Military Archives, located in Cathal Brugha Barracks, Rathmines, Dublin 6, is the place of deposit for the records of the Department of Defence, the Defence Forces and the Army Pensions Board under the terms of Section 14 of the National Archives Act 1986. Military archives are held there and, because of storage space constraints, in other locations.

A Military Pensions Archive project, covering the 1916 Rising and the War of Independence, is underway. The purpose of the project is to make the records for this period available to the public and to historians in good time for the 100th anniversary of the 1916 Rising in 2016.

The requirement for a more suitable home for the Military Archives has been recognised for some time and has been the subject of significant research. The long-term accommodation for the Military Archives will be reviewed in the context of the Military Pensions Archive project.

Question No. 81 answered with Question No. 74.

Departmental Estimates.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

82 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Defence if he will make a statement on his Department’s Estimate for 2010. [9190/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

Like other areas of the public service, the Defence Organisation will have to operate on a reduced budget for 2010, the details of which are set out in the Revised Estimates Volume for 2010. This was published on the 18th February. The gross total allocation for Defence in 2010 is €964m, comprising €755m in the Defence Estimate and €209m in the Army Pensions Estimate.

The Government is committed to maintaining the strength of the Permanent Defence Force at a level of 10,000 all ranks within available resources. The Defence Forces will continue to operate across all of the roles assigned by Government.

The investment in improved equipment and training made over the past few years means that the Defence Forces are in a healthy state both in terms of personnel and equipment to meet the challenges that lie ahead. They have improved in every respect since 2000 and comprehensive reform of structure and human resources, together with major investment in infrastructure and equipment, has been achieved during the past ten years.

In addition to savings of some €34m arising from the reductions in public service pay provided for in the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (No. 2) Act 2009, further payroll savings of the order of €14m will be achieved by reduced Permanent Defence Force personnel numbers, reduced civilian employee numbers and lower levels of paid training days for the Reserve Defence Force.

Reductions in the number of Permanent Defence Force personnel deployed overseas to Kosovo and Bosnia-Herzegovina will achieve savings of up to €7m, while reduced Naval Service patrol days and the optimisation of Air Corps flying hours will deliver savings of €2.2m.

The Coiste an Asgard sail training scheme is being discontinued, resulting in a saving of €0.8m.

Additional Appropriations in Aid of up to €13m are anticipated, mainly in respect of UN receipts, property sales, cash escorts and military guards. The scheme of full recovery for security services will be extended to An Post, the Central Bank and other organisations.

The 2010 capital expenditure allocation of €16m will be focused on new building works to improve the accommodation and facilities of the Defence Forces.

I am satisfied that priority programmes of investment in equipment and infrastructure can be maintained within the approved allocation.

Irish Red Cross.

Liz McManus

Question:

83 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Defence when he will introduce legislation regarding the Irish Red Cross; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9184/10]

Joe Costello

Question:

90 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Defence his views on the governance review of the Irish Red Cross; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9172/10]

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

195 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Defence the number of persons on the board of the Irish Red Cross; the number of ministerial nominees on the board of the Irish Red Cross; the number of board members serving 20 years or longer; the number serving ten years or longer; the number serving five years or longer; if he will introduce term limits to limit the time a person can serve on the board of the Irish Red Cross; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9631/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 83, 90 and 195 together.

The Irish Red Cross Society is an autonomous body, established by the Irish Red Cross Society Order 1939 pursuant to the Red Cross Act, 1938. The Society is an independent charitable organisation with full powers to manage and administer its affairs through its governing body, the Central Council.

Membership of the Central Council is by way of appointment by the Government or by election in accordance with the rules of the Society. The Central Council in turn elects an Executive Committee. The present Executive Committee was constituted at a meeting of the Central Council in June 2009. It presently has ten members. The positions of Chairman who is appointed by the President of Ireland on the advice of Government, and one ordinary member, a Government appointee to Central Council, are vacant. Of the remaining ten members of the Committee, three are Government appointees to Central Council.

No member of the current Executive Committee has attained twenty years or more service. One member has attained more than eighteen years but less than nineteen years service. Two other members have served more than ten years; and two members have served more than five years but less than ten years.

The Central Council of the Irish Red Cross, at its meeting on 28 November, 2009 adopted and approved the recommendations of the Governance Review Group of the Irish Red Cross which, inter alia, provide for Board rotation and finite terms of office for Board members. Such recommendations are in accordance with the Guidance on Governance standards of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has been and is supportive of the review process, which was undertaken by the Irish Red Cross Society.

The report completed by the Temporary Working Group established by the Irish Red Cross Society to examine the issue of Governance in the Society was received in the Department of Defence at the end of January 2010.

The Minister for Defence is anxious to ensure that all his dealings with the Society are conducted in accordance with the Society's basic principle of independence from Government.

Officials in the Department of Defence met recently with officials in the Irish Red Cross Society to discuss the contents of the report and the implications of the recommendations arising from the report.

The contents of the report will be the subject of interdepartmental and interagency consultations on the reform process. The Department of Foreign Affairs, which engages on an ongoing basis with the various components of the International Red Cross Movement, and with the Irish Red Cross Society, in relation to its overseas aid work, will be invited to participate in these discussions. Thereafter, the Minister for Defence will bring before Government any statutory changes deemed necessary.

Question No. 84 answered with Question No. 73.

Irish Language.

Liz McManus

Question:

85 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Defence the Irish language initiatives that have been undertaken in the Defence Forces since 1 January 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9183/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

The Defence Forces have continued to implement the initiatives of the Defence Forces' Language Scheme 2006 — 2009, under Section 11 of the Official Languages Act, 2003. The 2006 — 2009 scheme was audited by An Coimisineár Teanga and the Defence Forces are currently in correspondence with An Roinn Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaelteacha in the development of a new scheme. The following are the initiatives taken since 1 January 2009:

1. The Defence Forces ran its annual Campa Gaeilge in An Cheathrú Rua, Galway from the 24th to 29th May 2009. The camp was conducted under the aegis of Acadamh na Gaeilge, National University of Ireland, Galway and was attended by over sixty personnel.

2. The Defence Forces Comhairle na Gaeilge select a number of personnel annually to undergo a Diploma in ‘Cruinn Scríobh agus Labhairt na Gaeilge'. The diploma is conducted under the aegis of Acadamh na Gaeilge, NUI, Galway. In 2009, two students participated in this course.

3. Five Defence Forces students attended the Government sponsored Cúrsa Gaeleagrais in 2009. The students attended the Gaeleagras course in Connemara and Baile an Fheirtearaigh, Co. Chiarraí.

4. One student completed a Masters programme in Scríobh agus Cumarsáid na Gaeilge in University College Dublin.

5. Four students underwent an intensive course in ‘Cruinn Scríobh an Phraesráitis' conducted in association with Conradh na Gaeilge.

Commemorative Events.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

86 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Defence the progress reported regarding the projects relating to the 2016 commemoration of the 1916 Rising at the Oireachtas consultation group report on the 2 December 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9185/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

The All Party Oireachtas Consultation Group on the Centenary of the 1916 Rising met on Wednesday, 2 December, 2009 for discussions and site visits to Glasnevin Cemetery and the National Museum of Ireland Collins Barracks to view projects relating to the 2016 commemoration of the 1916 Rising. In the discussion, the Group were informed of recent developments and events including:

(a) Commemorations at

a. the General Post Office, Dublin on Easter Sunday, 12 April, 2009

b. the War Memorial Park, Islandbridge, 11 July, 2009

c. National Day of Commemoration, Kilmainham, 12 July, 2009.

(b) Arbour Hill renewal works including restoration and extension of the existing church car park, repair and restoration of all existing cemetery graves, repair of cemetery pathways and the planting of new trees.

(c) The future location of the Abbey Theatre and possible redevelopment at the GPO with reference also to the protection of 16 Moore Street.

(d) Recent acquisition for the national collections of items of interest relating to the independence period, amongst which were the 964 items of the Stanley Collection at a cost €3.5million. Other items purchased/donated include a letter from P.H. Pearse to General Maxwell and General Maxwell's brief reply and a copy of the Proclamation.

(e) Assistance towards themed publications i.e. the Royal Irish Academy's recent publication on Seán Lemass, and the SIPTU sponsored publication on James Connolly.

(f) The Military Archives Project which envisages that files, being the service records of personnel involved in the struggle for independence, would be released into the public domain on a phased basis in the years leading to the Centenary of the Rising. The Group were informed that an Advisory Board of historians had accepted invitations to assist with this project.

At Glasnevin Cemetery, the Group inspected progress on the significant programme of ongoing restoration works underway for which €6.4m of NDP funding has been provided to date. A new interpretative centre is scheduled to be opened in April, 2010.

While at Glasnevin, the Group noted the four headstones recently erected by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission on graves recording the British military service of the deceased. It is envisaged that further such headstones will be erected over coming years.

Following a meeting with the Director of the National Museum, the Group visited two exhibitions: Soldiers and Chiefs — The Irish at Home and Abroad from 1550 and The Easter Rising: Understanding 1916.

The Group also visited the ongoing restoration work being conducted on Erskine Childers' yacht Asgard. This project is scheduled to be completed by the end of June 2010.

The future use of the GPO including the possible development of cultural and amenity projects is under consideration. The suggested relocation to the GPO complex of the Abbey Theatre is currently being examined by the Office of Public Works.

The decision on future use will have regard to all advice and suggestions received.

It was agreed that the Group would meet again early in 2010.

Courts-Martial.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

87 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the investigation being carried out into the allegation that a member of the Naval Service was supplying information on patrol vessel movements to drug smugglers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9195/10]

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

102 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Defence if the Director of Military Prosecutions has come to a decision regarding the report that followed the investigation which was carried out into the allegation that a member of the Naval Service was supplying information on the movements of patrol vessels to drug smugglers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9176/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 87 and 102 together.

The matter referred to is currently the subject of Court Martial proceedings and as such it would be inappropriate for me to comment in relation to it until these proceedings have been concluded.

Defence Forces Training.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

88 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Defence the extent of physical education facilities in each Defence Forces establishment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9171/10]

Joan Burton

Question:

91 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Defence the number of personnel with physical education qualifications in each branch of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9170/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 88 and 91 together.

I am advised by the Military Authorities that, while there are a number of gymnasiums and physical fitness facilities in each Defence Forces establishment, there is one actual physical education facility, namely the Defence Forces Physical Education School in the Curragh Camp.

I am also advised by the Military Authorities that forty two (42) personnel are identified as being qualified to hold the appointment of Brigade Physical Education Officer. Thirty one (31) of these personnel hold a Bachelor of Education in Physical Education and eleven (11) hold a Bachelor of Science in Sports and Exercise Science. All of these personnel are currently serving in the Army.

I am further advised that these arrangements meet the needs of the Defence Forces at home and abroad.

Departmental Expenditure.

Willie Penrose

Question:

89 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Defence the level of payroll savings achieved by his Department in 2009 arising from retirements from the Defence Forces and the enforcement of the embargo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9187/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

The pay and allowances of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) are provided for in subheads B and C of the Defence Vote. The outturn on those subheads was €539.4m in 2008 and €536.9 in 2009. The 2009 figure includes the carry-over costs of two general pay increases granted under the Towards 2016 Agreement during 2008, as well as the full year costs of overseas allowances for the UN mission to Chad (in which the PDF participated for part only of 2008). The 2009 figure does not reflect offsetting receipts of some €21.5m in respect of the pension levy, which was introduced from 1 March 2009.

The strength of the PDF was 10,408 on 1 January 2009 and stood at 9933 on 31 December 2009, a reduction of 475. Based on this reduction and assuming that wastage was spread evenly throughout the year, it is estimated that the resulting savings on pay and allowances in 2009 were of the order of €11m.

Question No. 90 answered with Question No. 83.

Question No. 91 answered with Question No. 88.

Question No. 92 answered with Question No. 67.

Question No. 93 answered with Question No. 77.

Question No. 94 answered with Question No. 69.

Naval Service Vessels.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

95 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Defence his plans for vessel replacement in the Naval Service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9193/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

A vessel replacement strategy for the Naval Service is currently in progress following the commencement of a tender competition in 2007. The competition sought tenders for the purchase of two Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) and one Extended Patrol Vessel (EPV), with an option for up to two additional vessels. The process comprised two stages — Stage 1, a Request for Proposals and Stage 2, an Invitation to Tender.

During 2008, Stage 1 of the tender process was completed and, insofar as the OPVs are concerned, tenders were received in response to Stage 2. Following tender evaluation, a preferred bidder was selected last year and detailed and extensive contract negotiations are now close to conclusion. The decision to proceed with the final award of contract to purchase the OPVs will be subject to Government approval and agreement on funding. Subject to such approval, it is expected that the new vessels will be delivered for acceptance by the Naval Service on a phased basis from 2012. In relation to the larger EPV, Stage 1 of the competition has been completed. Stage 2 will not be initiated until the contract for the OPVs has been concluded.

This strategy combined with a continuous process of refurbishment and repair will ensure that the operational capability of the Naval Service is maintained at a satisfactory level.

The acquisition of modern new vessels will ensure that the Service will be fully equipped to carry out its day to day roles in enforcing the State's sovereign rights over our waters and our fisheries and meeting Ireland's obligations in the area of maritime safety and security and fisheries protection.

Defence Forces Reserve.

Joe Costello

Question:

96 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Defence the level of recruitment into the Reserve Defence Force since 1 January 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9173/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

I am advised by the Military Authorities that the level of recruitment into the Reserve Defence Force between 1 January and 31 January 2010, the latest date for which figures are available, was twenty two (22) personnel.

Limited recruitment to fill vacancies arising due to existing Reserve members resigning, or being discharged in the normal manner, is continuing, subject to the strength level which existed at 1 January 2009 not being exceeded, and will be monitored and kept under review in the light of the uptake of paid training within the RDF and future budgetary provisions.

Defence Forces Operations.

Willie Penrose

Question:

97 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Defence the number of occasions on which the Army ordnance corps has been called out to deal with suspicious devices during 2009 and to date in 2010; the number of cases which were actual explosive devices; the number of occasions on which the devices were hoaxes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9186/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

The primary responsibility for the maintenance of law and order rests with an Garda Síochána. The Defence Forces, pursuant to their role of rendering aid to the civil power, assist the Gardaí as required. Requests for aid to the civil power are normally made by a member of an Garda Síochána not below the rank of Inspector.

The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team respond when a request is made by an Garda Síochána, to the relevant Brigade, for assistance in dealing with a suspect device or for the removal of old ordnance.

The number of call outs made by EOD teams from 1 January 2009 to 14 February 2010 is as follows:

Year	Total	Hoaxes (Included in total)
2009	196	84
2010	25 (as of 14 Feb 2010)	6

Defence Forces Review.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

98 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Defence if the value for money and policy review of the Reserve Defence Force has commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9174/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

In line with the Government's 2009-2011 programme of Value for Money and Policy reviews, The Department of Defence is committed to undertaking a Value for Money Review of the Reserve Defence Force in 2010.

A Steering Committee comprising representatives from the Department of Defence, the Defence Forces and the Department of Finance has recently met and work has formally commenced. In accordance with revised guidelines for the conduct of Value for Money Reviews, an independent chair was appointed to the Steering Committee.

The Review will be progressed over the coming months and it is anticipated that the findings of this Review, together with the lessons learned from the Reserve Defence Force Review Implementation Plan, will assist in informing decisions regarding the future development of the Reserve Defence Force.

Ministerial Transport.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

99 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Defence the review he plans to carry out on ministerial transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9178/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

The Ministerial Air Transport Service delivered by the Air Corps continues to provide the Government and the President with an independent, flexible and effective air transport service to assist in meeting national and international obligations. There are no plans at present to carry out a review of the Service, and any decision to do so is a matter for Government.

Civil Defence.

Joan Burton

Question:

100 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Defence the arrangements he has made for the preparation of a third strategic plan for the Civil Defence organisation in respect of the period 2011 to 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9169/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

The preparation of the Strategic Plan for Civil Defence is a matter for the Civil Defence Board in the first instance. The current plan covers the period May 2007-May 2010.

I understand from the Board that preparation of the next Strategic Plan, which will cover the period May 2010 — May 2013, commenced last November with the issue of consultation papers to Local Authorities as part of the consultation process with the Authorities and with Civil Defence volunteer members.

The majority of consultation papers have now been returned to the Board and feedback is being collated at present. A number of meetings have been scheduled for the Board and Committees of the Board, who are broadly representative of the major Civil Defence stakeholders, to ensure the timely completion of the Strategic Plan.

Departmental Properties.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

101 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Defence his plans for the military barracks, Waterford City; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9181/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

The Department's property at the Military Barracks, Waterford City consists of less than one acre. It is currently used by the Reserve Defence Forces and by County Waterford Civil Defence. There are no plans at the moment to change its status.

Question No. 102 answered with Question No. 87.

Overseas Missions.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

103 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Defence the progress that will be made in 2010 regarding the Reserve Defence Force serving with the Permanent Defence Forces on overseas missions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9182/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Pat Carey)

In 2009 the plan to deploy members of the Reserve Defence Force (RDF) on overseas peace support operations was postponed for the foreseeable future.

My Department was in the process of making Regulatory provision to allow suitably qualified members of the RDF to qualify for service with the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) for the express purpose of this overseas service. However, the Government introduced a moratorium on recruitment to the Public Service with effect from 27th March 2009. This moratorium prevented the planned recruitment of members of the Reserve to the PDF for the purpose of overseas service. Reductions in the Defence payroll budget have also limited the scope for payment of additional personnel.

As outlined in the budget in December 2009, it has been decided that the Defence Forces commitments to overseas peace support operations will be scaled back in 2010. As a consequence, the number of PDF personnel serving overseas is to be reduced.

The Reserve Defence Force Review Implementation Plan, which was developed following broad stakeholder consultation, has provided the framework for the development of the Reserve over recent years. The Plan has informed the development of the Reserve up to the end of 2009. There is now a requirement to examine the progress that has been made and to chart the future direction of the Reserve. Work has commenced on a Value for Money Review of the Reserve and the findings of this Review, together with the lessons learned from the Implementation Plan to date, will inform future plans for the Reserve.

EU Funding.

Niall Collins

Question:

104 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the European Globalisation Fund for a company (detail supplied) in County Limerick can be used to grant-aid business start-up applications. [9373/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) funds active labour market interventions for a range of measures including business start up and aid for self-employment.

Co-funded assistance measures including aid for business start-ups, self-employment and entrepreneurship programmes was sought under the EGF application submitted in June 2009 for those workers made redundant at DELL's Raheen plant and at ancillary enterprises in the Mid-West region. This application was subsequently approved by the EU budgetary authorities at the end of 2009.

Some of the approved EGF funding will be used to provide grant aid for business start-ups. Enterprise Ireland and the relevant City and County Enterprise Boards (CEBS) have responsibility for the provision of entrepreneurial supports under the EGF. It is envisaged that circa €2m will be available to fund a range of entrepreneurial supports over the duration of the EGF implementation period.

The CEBs will handle most business start up applications and these will be assessed in accordance with CEB eligibility criteria. The CEBs provided advice to individual workers at the EGF Information Fair held in Raheen on 12 and 13 February last and is planning follow up action with interested workers.

The City and County Enterprise Boards continue to remain available to any of those who were unable to attend the Information Fair and who wish to explore opportunities for starting their own businesses.

Illegal Imports.

Chris Andrews

Question:

105 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views on banning the importation of goods originating from settlements in the West Bank that are illegal under international law; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9432/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Deputy Billy Kelleher)

The question of imposing sanctions on products from Israeli settlements in the West Bank is primarily a matter for my colleague the Minister for Foreign Affairs. Any decision in this matter would involve consideration and political agreement among Member States of the EU.

Company Closures.

Ulick Burke

Question:

106 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of enterprises, commercial and manufacturing that went into liquidation in County Galway during each of the years 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009; the number of jobs lost; the value of exports lost; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9435/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The Companies Registration Office does not maintain data on liquidations on a county basis.

Community Employment Schemes.

Ulick Burke

Question:

107 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of persons involved in FÁS community employment schemes in County Galway for each of the years 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009; the number of supervisors involved; the training programmes involved in these schemes; the cost of these schemes in County Galway for each of these years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9437/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Deputy Dara Calleary)

The information requested is being collated and will be passed to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Company Closures.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

108 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the order of priority of various types of creditors in relation to the proceeds of a company liquidation. [9446/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Deputy Billy Kelleher)

The order of preferential payments in the winding up of a company is set out at section 285 of the Companies Act 1963 as amended.

FÁS Training Programmes.

Catherine Byrne

Question:

109 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding FÁS courses offered to people in receipt of jobseekers payments and who are required to attend for interview with FÁS; the age profile of those embarking on such FÁS courses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9490/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Deputy Dara Calleary)

FÁS, under the National Employment Action Plan (NEAP) preventative strategy, systematically engages with unemployed persons between the ages of 18 and 64 years who are referred by the Department of Social and Family Affairs to the Agency on reaching three months on the Live Register. Services offered include vocational guidance/counselling, information on job opportunities, assistance with CV preparation and interview techniques, access to employment programmes and skills training. Particular emphasis is placed on the identification of training needs and on the provision of tailored responses. All NEAP clients are accorded priority in accessing training provided by FÁS Training Services.

The following table sets out the age profile from January to November 2009 of those referred to and interviewed by FÁS under the NEAP. Statistics relating to the number placed into a FÁS training initiative and their age profile are being collated and will be passed to the Deputy as soon as they are available.

Age Band	<25	25-34	35-44	45-54	55-64	Longer Term Unemployed (12 months or more) in NEAP	Total
Number Interviewed by FÁS	11,294	16,709	11,807	7,567	3,241	10,655	61,273

Departmental Agencies.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

110 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason for her decision to prevent FÁS from facilitating term time arrangements for its employees; if she will review and reverse this decision. [9645/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The question of term time arrangements, as provided for under the Department of Finance Circular 14/2009 on the Shorter Working Year Scheme, is a day-to-day staffing matter for FÁS under its functions as provided for in the Labour Services Act, 1987.

Tax Code.

Bobby Aylward

Question:

111 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Finance if a proposed development of 19 houses in a rural village in County Kilkenny will be liable for 80% windfall tax as proposed in Budget 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9365/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The windfall tax rate of 80% applies to the portion of a profit or gain made on the disposal of land which is attributable to a rezoning, where both the rezoning and the disposal giving rise to the windfall happen after 30 October 2009.

A "rezoning" for this purpose means a change from a non-development land use to a development land use, or a mixture of development land uses, or from one development land use to another development land use or to a mixture of such uses. "Development land uses" are residential, industrial and commercial; "non-development land uses" are agricultural, open space, recreational or amenity.

The 80% rate applies only to the portion of the profit or gain on the disposal of the land which is attributable to a rezoning. The balance of the gain is taxable at the normal capital gains tax rate, if the disposal is treated as a chargeable gain, or at the appropriate income tax or corporation tax rate, if the disposal is as part of a trade of dealing in or developing land.

The rationale for taxing this part of the profit or gain at a higher rate is because it is attributable to an administrative decision — that is, to rezone the land — rather than to anything done by the landowner.

It is not possible for me to comment on the liability to windfall tax with regard to a particular development, such as the one in County Kilkenny mentioned by the Deputy. Liability to the windfall tax will depend on whether the land in question was both rezoned and disposed of after 30 October 2009.

Jack Wall

Question:

112 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Finance when mortgage interest relief will be implemented in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; if this person is entitled to arrears; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9414/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

This is a matter in the first instance for the Revenue Commissioners who are responsible for the administration of mortgage interest relief through the tax relief at source (TRS) system. I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that following direct contact with the person concerned, Revenue is satisfied that there is an entitlement to relief. Accordingly, arrangements have been made for payment of the relief through the TRS system and also for payment of arrears due.

Proposed Legislation.

Michael McGrath

Question:

113 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the reform of the Financial Regulator and the Central Bank; when he plans to publish legislation regarding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9421/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I hope to bring a Bill to reform financial regulatory structures to Government shortly and, pending a Government Decision, to publish the legislation during the current session of Dáil Éireann.

Road Network.

Ulick Burke

Question:

114 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Finance the person who has responsibility for the upkeep and maintenance of the bridge over the River Suck at River Street, Ballinasloe, County Galway; the legislation that gives responsibility to him for this bridge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9439/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Deputy Martin Mansergh)

The bridge in question is a public road bridge, and as I understand, its upkeep and maintenance is the responsibility of Galway County Council.

International Agreements.

Joan Burton

Question:

115 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance if he can confirm whether a loan of up to €2 billion is being granted to the International Monetary Fund from Central Bank of Ireland resources this year; the timeframe for the repayment of this loan; the impact this loan will have on the public finances in the immediate and longer term; the terms or conditions attached to this loan; if the IMF will extend resources arising from this loan to low-income countries or will the resources from the loan target middle and high-income countries only; if new legislation is required for the granting of said loan and when such legislation is to be brought before Dáil Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9487/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The Deputy is referring to Ireland's participation in the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) New Arrangements to Borrow, (NAB). The NAB is essentially a set of credit arrangements between the IMF and member countries and institutions to provide supplementary resources to the IMF to forestall or cope with an impairment of the international monetary system or to deal with an exceptional situation that poses a threat to the stability of that system.

In January 2010, the Government decided, in principle, to approve Ireland's participation in the NAB and Ireland's provision to the NAB of a loan facility of approximately €2 bn, subject to agreement on terms and conditions. This followed on agreement by G20 Leaders in April 2009 to increase the resources available to the IMF by up to US$500 bn, thereby tripling the total pre-crisis lending resources of the IMF to US$750 bn, to support all IMF member countries with balance of payment (BOP) / financing needs, irrespective of income group. In September 2009, EU Heads of State agreed that the total EU contribution to this increase would be €125 bn. Ireland's share of this is approximately €2 bn.

Ireland's provision of the NAB loan facility will be met using Central Bank resources, as is the case with a number of other EU countries. If there is no drawdown of the facility, there will be no impact on the Exchequer. If there is a drawdown, the impact would only arise indirectly in terms of a potential reduction in the surplus income remitted to the Exchequer by the Central Bank — which at current interest rate levels is estimated at €15 million per annum, based on a drawdown of the full amount of €2 bn. If the drawdown is less, the indirect impact would be less.

The terms and conditions of the expanded NAB are still under negotiation between participating member countries and the IMF. While legislation will be required to implement the loan facility, this can only be done when the terms and conditions are finalised.

As set out in my reply to PQ 6962 /10, the implementation of the NAB loan facility is being preceded by the provision of a bilateral loan facility to the IMF of €1.3 bn and arrangements for bringing forward legislation to implement the bilateral loan facility at an early date are in hand.

State Banking Sector.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

116 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Finance when the Director of Corporate Enforcement will publish his report into the ongoing investigation into Anglo Irish Bank. [9497/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The Director of Corporate Enforcement is independent in carrying out his functions under the Company Law Enforcement Act 2001. His statutory remit is limited to the Companies Acts. The Director has stated that the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation and ODCE investigations into the affairs of Anglo Irish Bank are proceeding satisfactorily. Both are cooperating closely. I understand that the purpose of the investigations is to discover whether wrongdoing occurred in the Bank and, if so, the circumstances of any such wrongdoing.

The Director of Corporate Enforcement has stated recently that it is not possible to put a timescale on the completion of his Office's investigations at this stage. Several months' work lies ahead.

Following the completion of their respective investigations, the ODCE/Garda may furnish a report to the Director of Public Prosecutions, who can then decide if any prosecutions are warranted. Other than by way of Court proceedings, there is no legal means by which the detailed results of the ODCE/Garda investigations will be made known.

I understand that within the ODCE, some 16 full-time equivalent staff (or one-third of available personnel) are now supporting the investigations. These staff include gardaí and staff with accounting, administrative, IT and legal expertise.

Financial Services Regulation.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

117 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide the names of the heads of investigations being carried out by the Financial Regulator and when such reports will be forthcoming. [9498/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I understand that the Deputy is referring to investigations into Anglo Irish Bank currently being carried out by staff of Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority reporting to its Chief Executive, Mr. Matthew Elderfield. In accordance with the Central Bank Act 1942 (as amended) and the Statute of the European System of Central Banks, the Central Bank and Financial Services Regulatory Authority is an independent statutory body and I am not in a position to provide the information sought.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

118 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Finance the investigations being carried out into the dealings of Anglo Irish Bank by any agent or agency of the State and when such investigations will be completed and such reports delivered. [9499/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

As the Deputy will be aware, a number of regulatory bodies are carrying out investigations of behaviour at Anglo Irish Bank. These include the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement, the Garda Fraud Office and the Financial Regulator and the Irish Auditing and Accounting Supervisory Authority (IAASA). Whilst all enquiries are at an advanced stage and are being progressed as a matter of priority, the matters under investigation are detailed and complex and it is not possible at this time to specify when the investigations will be concluded. I am of course anxious that the investigations are completed as swiftly as possible.

Departmental Staff.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

119 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance the steps he has taken to resolve the work to rule by staff in the Department of Social and Family Affairs. [8910/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The current work to rule in the Department of Social and Family Affairs is part of a co-ordinated programme of industrial action undertaken by public service unions across the public sector. The industrial action is in response to the pay reductions imposed by the Government on public servants with effect from 1 January last as part of the Government's budgetary strategy to bring the public finances under control.

In order to address issues raised by the programme of industrial action in the public sector, my Department has established a co-ordination group of all public service sectors affected to monitor and review service delivery and other issues arising from the industrial action. The Department of Social and Family Affairs is represented in that group. I believe that any form of industrial action is regrettable. In that regard, the Government has indicated its wish to engage with the public service unions with a view to achieving the necessary transformation to the public service into the future.

Public Sector Pay.

Finian McGrath

Question:

120 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will support a matter (details supplied). [9671/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I refer to my reply to Questions Nos. 176 and 182 answered on 23 February 2010.

Section 6 of the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (No. 2) Act 2009 provides that, in certain limited circumstances, the Minister for Finance may by direction exempt or vary the application of the pay reductions provided for in the Act to public servants or groups of public servants.

Representations from a number of Deputies have been made in relation to the application of the pay reductions to contract researchers. The Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (No. 2) Act, 2009 makes provision for the reduction in the pay rates of all persons employed by public service bodies with effect from 1 January 2010. As universities come within the definition in the Act of public service bodies, contract researchers employed by such universities are subject to the pay reductions provided for under the legislation. I have no proposals to exempt persons in that position from the pay reductions.

Medical Cards.

Martin Ferris

Question:

121 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will be made awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry. [9388/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Inter-Country Adoptions.

Richard Bruton

Question:

122 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if independent adoptions in Mexico will be recognised in Irish adoption law in view of the fact that they are under the Hague Convention, and if she will provide reassurance to Irish adoptive parents who are in this position. [9419/10]

Catherine Byrne

Question:

139 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Adoption Bill 2009 will take into account the case of inter-country adoptions with Mexico; if such adoptions by Irish couples will be permitted into the future; if she will assure couples currently in the process of adopting a child from Mexico that these adoptions will be allowed to be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9489/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy Barry Andrews)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 122 and 139 together.

The Adoption Bill, 2009, is designed to give force of law to the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Inter-country Adoption. The new legislation, which incorporates the provisions of the Hague Convention, is designed to provide a framework to ensure that appropriate procedures have been followed and that all adoptions are effected in the best interests of the child. Future inter-country adoption arrangements will be governed by the terms of the Adoption Bill 2009 when enacted.

With regard to ‘independent' adoptions, Part 13 of the Adoption Bill outlines the restrictions on a person in seeking to make arrangements for adoptions. It also identifies the particular role of accredited authorities in this regard.

Medical Aids and Appliances.

Alan Shatter

Question:

123 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will supply an insulin pump to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 16. [9364/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Hospital Services.

Pat Breen

Question:

124 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made to date in implementing the recommendations of the Health Information and Quality Authority report for Ennis General Hospital. [9371/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Medical Cards.

Martin Ferris

Question:

125 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children when an application for a medical card will be processed in respect of a person (details supplied). [9389/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Health Services.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

126 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps she has taken to combat increasing difficulties health workers are faced with in reaching sex workers. [9396/10]