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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Mar 2010

Vol. 705 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 108, inclusive, resubmitted.

Poverty Statistics.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

109 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach the reason for the delay in publishing a breakdown of the number living in persistent poverty. [12754/10]

The Survey on Income and Living Conditions (SILC) in Ireland is a household survey covering a broad range of issues in relation to income and living conditions. It is the official source of data on household and individual income and also provides a number of key national poverty indicators, such as the at risk of poverty rate and the consistent poverty rate.

The ‘at-risk-of-persistent-poverty-rate' refers to the percentage of persons at risk of poverty in a given year and in at least 2 of the preceding 3 years. By its nature the ‘at-risk-of-persistent-poverty-rate' can only be calculated for persons in the sample for a 4 year period. As a rotational sample design is used for SILC, whereby one quarter of households are replaced each year, a small proportion of total households remain in the sample for 4 years.

It is the CSO's view at this point that, given the small number of households, a reliable estimate of persistent poverty cannot be calculated. However, the CSO is continuing to study the problem with a view to producing a reliable estimate.

Departmental Properties.

Seán Connick

Question:

110 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Taoiseach the number of buildings his Department are renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12294/10]

My Department does not rent any buildings within the State.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

111 Deputy Bruton asked the Taoiseach the number of staff in his Department and any agency under his remit who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12308/10]

The information requested in relation to my Department is set out in the table (all figures are whole-time equivalents):

Payroll

Financial Management

Human Resource Management

Means Assessment

Procurement

ICT

0

3

5.8

0

0

9.6

It should be noted that procurement is undertaken as required within individual sections in my Department and no member of staff is primarily employed in this area.

The National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO) is the only agency under the remit of my Department. While there are members of staff in the NESDO who work in the areas identified in the question, no member of staff is primarily employed in any of these areas.

Poverty Statistics.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

112 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach if he will push for the adoption by the European Council at its meeting on 25 and 26 March 2010 of a commitment from each member state to reduce by 25% the number of its own population living in poverty by 2020 as a core target to be contained in the EU 2020 Strategy. [12622/10]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

113 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach if he will push for the adoption by the European Council at its meeting on 25 and 26 March 2010 of annual or biannual poverty reduction targets leading up to 2020 in the EU 2020 Strategy. [12623/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 112 and 113 together.

One of the agenda items for the discussion by Member States at the forthcoming Spring European Council at the end of March is the proposed successor to the Lisbon Strategy for Growth and Jobs, often referred to as EU2020 or the Europe 2020 Strategy.

Following a consultation process the European Commission published a Communication on this strategy on 3 March. The Commission Communication aims to guide the European Union out of the economic crisis and turn Europe into a smart, sustainable and inclusive economy. The Commission's proposed approach includes the reduction of poverty as one of the five headline targets.

Detailed analysis of the implications of the proposals under consideration is being undertaken and discussion is ongoing in the lead-up to the Spring European Council. It is not clear at this stage therefore what will be tabled for discussion at the Spring European Council. Ireland supports inclusion of a target to capture progress towards greater social cohesion. The precise position will depend on what emerges from the ongoing analysis and preparatory discussions.

Departmental Expenditure.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

114 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Taoiseach the estimated cost in relation to foreign travel, accommodation and related ministerial and official costs associated with St. Patrick’s Day 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12823/10]

I visited Chicago, Silicon Valley and Washington from March 12th to March 18th, 2010. I carried out over 25 separate engagements in the course of my visit.

I met with major multinational companies who have invested billions of euro in Ireland. I also took part in a trade mission involving Irish companies with significant business in the United States. These companies support thousands of jobs in this country and could potentially create more jobs here in the future.

I also met with President Obama, Vice President Biden, Speaker Pelosi, Congressional leaders from the Republican and Democratic parties, the Governor of Illinois and the Mayors of Chicago and San José. The estimated costs of the visit were:

Hotels

Chicago €1,764 (average cost per room per night was €126).

San Jose €1,128 (average cost per room per night was €161).

Washington €3,972 (average cost per room per night was €189).

Equipment €2,139.

Car Hire

Chicago €2,610.

San Jose not yet available.

Washington not yet available.

Gifts €2,127.

Other costs €1,610.

I expect some relatively small additional costs will arise as payments are processed.

Census of Population.

Seán Barrett

Question:

115 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Taoiseach the organisations and individuals from whom representations were received regarding the inclusion of a question on autism in the 2011 census; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12942/10]

The Irish Society for Autism and one individual (name withheld) made submissions seeking to have Autistic Spectrum Disorder separately distinguished in the disability question.

Overseas Visit.

Pat Breen

Question:

116 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his recent visit to the United States; the issues raised with the US President; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12972/10]

I travelled to the United States as part of the traditional St. Patrick's Day celebrations. On St. Patrick's Day in Washington I met with President Obama in the oval office where we discussed the global economic situation, recent developments in Northern Ireland, European and international issues and Ireland-US relations. I also attended the St Patrick's Day lunch on Capitol Hill, hosted by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ms Nancy Pelosi. Later that day I attended the White House St. Patrick's Day Reception where I presented President Obama with the traditional bowl of shamrock.

In addition I had meetings with Vice-President Biden and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. While in Washington I made the keynote address to the Ireland Fund Dinner and had a meeting of US-based members of the Global Irish Network which was established following the Global Irish Forum last year.

I also met with the North's First Minister, Peter Robinson and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness during my time in Washington. While in Chicago I attended the Irish Fellowship Club of Chicago dinner and had meetings with Irish community representatives, as well as political leaders including Governor Pat Quinn and Mayor Richard M Daley. I attended a range of business and trade promotion events in Chicago, Silicon Valley and Washington DC during the course of my trip.

Community Employment Schemes.

Seán Connick

Question:

117 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if all participants on community employment schemes with dependent children are entitled to an increased rate of payment for a child dependant; if participants on a community employment scheme in receipt of disability allowance are entitled to an increased rate of payment in respect of dependant children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12555/10]

All Community Employment (CE) participants who were formerly in receipt of Jobseeker's Benefit or Jobseeker's Allowance or are in receipt of a lone parent type payment such as a One Parent Family Payment or Deserted Wife Benefit payment and who have dependent children are eligible to receive from FÁS and additional allowance for a child dependant.

For CE participants who are currently in receipt of disability-related social welfare payments, child dependant payments continue to be paid and administered by the Department of Social and Family Affairs. In such cases participants receive the CE Single Adult Rate only.

Labour Inspection Reports.

Denis Naughten

Question:

118 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps she is taking to publish the annual reports from 1965 to 1991 of the inspector of mines under the Mines and Quarries Acts; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12644/10]

I understand that Annual Reports of the Industrial Inspectorate, in latter years (from 1977 onwards) entitled Labour Inspection Reports and, since the coming into operation of the Safety Health and Welfare at Work 1989, entitled the Annual Report of the National Authority for Occupational Safety and Health were laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas. These documents contain, inter alia, reports on the activities of the Inspectorate/Authority insofar as the mining and quarrying sector is concerned. The Deputy should contact the Oireachtas Library and Research Service if he wishes to access them.

Employment Subsidy Scheme.

Joe Carey

Question:

119 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of companies in County Clare that are in receipt of the employment subsidy scheme first call; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12210/10]

Joe Carey

Question:

120 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of employees in the mid-west region, in counties Clare, Limerick and north Tipperary that are subsidised by the employment subsidy scheme first call; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12211/10]

Joe Carey

Question:

121 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of applications that were received from County Clare based companies in relation to the employment subsidy scheme first call; the number of companies that were successful; the number of companies that applied but were refused; the reasons companies were refused; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12212/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 119 to 121, inclusive, together.

There are 50 companies in the Mid West Region who are receiving 651 subsidies under the First Call of the Employment Subsidy Scheme. These subsidies are supporting the retention either directly or indirectly of 3,772 employees.

Specifically in relation to County Clare, 26 applications were received under the First Call of the Employment Subsidy Scheme. 22 of these applications were successful and 4 companies were unsuccessful. 3 companies were unsuccessful as their applications had incomplete financial documentation and 1 company was deemed not successful by the Assessment Team, as it did not meet all of the eligibility criteria for the scheme.

Joe Carey

Question:

122 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the plans she has to introduce a third call to the employment subsidy scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12214/10]

There are currently no plans to have a third call for applications under the Employment Subsidy Scheme.

Task Force Report.

Joe Carey

Question:

123 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the work that has been completed to date with regard to the implementation of the recommendations of the interim report of the mid-west task force; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12230/10]

Joe Carey

Question:

124 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if work to complete the final report of the mid-west task force is underway; when it is expected that the final report will be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12231/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 123 and 124 together.

I made a detailed Statement to the House on 28 January on this issue, as did a number of my colleagues. An updated summary on the Government's responses to the Task Force recommendations is provided as follows.

The Task Force completed an Interim Report which was presented to me by Mr Brosnan last July. Since then the Government has been responding to the recommendations under the various headings. Last September, I sent the Task Force a report on responses up to that time. I have now completed a broad consultation, taking account of Ministers' budgets for 2010, with other Ministers and all relevant Divisions and agencies in my own Department, and I expect to send a further report to the Task Force very shortly.

In relation to regional issues, the Dáil Statements and my reports to the Task Force indicate that:

Throughout 2009, a multi-agency response to the Dell-related job losses has been taking place at two levels, providing information & services to individual employees facing unemployment to facilitate them to re-train, to re-educate or to start a new business, and delivering specific initiatives to indigenous sub-supply companies in the Mid-West to explore alternative markets, products and business opportunities.

These measures are now being continued and expanded up to September 2011 under a successful application which I made last June under the EU's European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, which has been approved at EU level and is being put into effect.

In relation to industrial employment in the Mid-West, 1,100 new jobs are now coming on stream in Limerick and Clare in eight projects approved by IDA and Shannon Development in 2008 and 2009. Five new High Potential start-ups were established in the Mid-West in 2009 with Enterprise Ireland support, and a €26m Bank of Ireland Seed and Early Stage Equity Fund supported by Enterprise Ireland and the University of Limerick Foundation to invest in start-up and early stage companies has recently been announced.

Shannon Development has begun the further development of the National Technology Park in Limerick into a more strategic site for the attraction of industrial investment from Irish and foreign companies.

I asked IDA in its recently published Strategy to make a renewed stronger job-creation effort in the regions, including the Mid-West, and particularly the broader Limerick area, which have recently fared less well in industrial employment.

The Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government is now carrying through arrangements to develop the Governance structures in relation to the broader Limerick area and to implement regeneration in Limerick City.

In relation to Shannon Airport, the Lynx Cargo Group and the Dublin Airport Authority are now completing an examination of the feasibility of developing a major cargo facility at the Airport.

In addition to the national Tourism Marketing Fund of €44.25 million in 2010, Tourism Ireland will engage in cooperative marketing campaigns with air carriers to promote ease of access and to stimulate demand for travel to the Shannon region from key source markets. Shannon Development will continue its annual Tourism spend in the region, a support which is not available to other regions.

In relation to Roads, the region has recently seen the completion of projects such as the N18 Ennis By-pass, the N85 Western Relief Road and the N7 Southern Ring Road Phase 1. The NRA work programme will see further extensive development to the road network in the region, including routes such as the N7, N18 and N17, the M20 to Cork, a number of link and by-pass roads close to Limerick City, as well as the Northern Ring Road.

Apart from initiatives relating specifically to the Mid-West region, Government has been responding to the economic downturn generally and has taken numerous initiatives. Many of these respond to Task Force recommendations, and the Mid-West has already benefited from them:

Our cost competitiveness and our wage competitiveness have been significantly improved.

The price of energy for industry has been significantly reduced.

The Enterprise Stabilisation Fund has helped to keep viable businesses going and to keep jobs in place. 148 companies were approved for funding of €59 million by the end of 2009.

The Government has supported more than 80,000 jobs under the Employment Subsidy Scheme.

The referral capacity for FÁS employment supports were doubled in 2009 to 147,000 places.

The recent Budget also announced a new Jobs stimulus measure for this year under the Employer Jobs PRSI Incentive Scheme.

The recommendations of the Mid-West Task Force have been very helpful in focusing the response of Government, Departments and Agencies, both at regional and national level. I shall continue to keep the Task Force informed on the Government's work on matters covered in the interim recommendations. The Task Force has identified a number of issues for further study in its Final Report, which I look forward to receiving shortly.

Departmental Properties.

Seán Connick

Question:

125 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of buildings her Department are renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12287/10]

My Department and the 8 Offices of my Department are currently occupying 11 buildings within the State.

With the exception of a building in Shannon occupied by the National Employment Rights Authority (NERA), none of the buildings or premises occupied by my Department and the 8 Offices of my Department is rented or leased by the Department or the Offices concerned. In general, all buildings and premises occupied by my Department and its Offices are provided by the Office of Public Works (OPW) without any cost to the Department or the Offices. In many of those cases the buildings/premises are rented or leased by the OPW and the information requested by the Deputy, in relation to any rental costs in 2009 and the average length of the leases for the various buildings, could only be supplied by the Office of Public Works.

NERA's Shannon accommodation is held under a four-year licence agreement between the OPW and NERA on the one hand and Westpark Shannon Limited on the other. The licence agreement commenced in February 2009. The licence fee, which was payable by NERA in 2009, amounts to €156.08 per square metre, subject to a maximum charge of €32,480 per annum (exclusive of VAT). Since 1 January 2010 the OPW has assumed responsibility for the payment of the licence fee costs for NERA's Shannon accommodation.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

126 Deputy Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of staff in her Department and any agency under her remit who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12309/10]

The table outlines the number of staff in my Department primarily employed in pay roll, in financial management, in human resources management, in means assessment, in procurement, and in ICT Services.

With regard to the Agencies under the aegis of my Department the breakdown of staff under the various categories is a day to day matter for the Agencies concerned. I have asked the Agencies to respond directly to the Deputy with the information sought.

Category

Number of Staff

Pay Roll

6 (full time equivalents)

Financial Management

29.73 (full time equivalents) in Department

1 (full time equivalent) in Companies Registration Office

1 (full time equivalent) in Patents Office

Human Resources Management

22.9 (full time equivalents)

Means Assessment

0

Procurement

1 (full time equivalent) employed in the Procurement Co-ordination Unit*

ICT Services

31 (full time equivalents) in Department

3 (full time equivalents) in Companies Registration Office

5 in Labour Court

All staff are engaged in ICT support, development and related activities

*Purchasing functions are distributed throughout the Department. The role of the Procurement Co-ordination Unit is to assist the Business Services Unit in the procurement of goods and services, in line with public procurement legislation and guidelines. The Unit also provides an advisory service to those staff of the Department and its Offices who are involved in the procurement process.

Procurement Procedures.

Phil Hogan

Question:

127 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in relation to the recent reply, she has made representations to FÁS in relation to, or on behalf of, an undertaking or individual, seeking to procure goods or services into FÁS; the identity of any such undertaking or individual; if they subsequently became a supplier to FÁS; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12322/10]

Contracts awarded to individual(s) or companies for services carried out on behalf of FÁS are subject to normal public sector procurement procedures. The question of representations to FÁS by any representative of this Department on behalf of any individual(s) or companies in the context of seeking to procure services into FÁS, therefore, does not arise.

Companies Register.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

128 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment with regard to a residential or owners' management company which is struck off the companies list, the person who has ownership of any money held by that company in the form of a sinking fund and the person who owns any other assets; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12351/10]

The State Property Acts make provision, among other things for the devolution of property of dissolved and struck off companies. This legislation is the responsibility of the Minister for Finance.

The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform is currently at Committee Stage in the Seanad with the Multi-Unit Developments Bill 2009. That Bill provides for changes in the law relating to the ownership and management of the common areas of multi-unit developments, the fair, efficient and effective management of bodies responsible for the management of such common areas and related matters, including, sinking funds, service charges, annual charges, dispute resolution, mediation and the restoration to the Companies Register following strike off.

Community Employment Schemes.

Joe McHugh

Question:

129 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the percentage reduction in payment for community employment schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12382/10]

The basic allowance payable to Community Employment (CE) participants in 2009 was €228.70. In 2010 the allowance paid is €216.00. This represents a reduction of 5.6%. The adjustment was necessary in order to fund increased activation measures in 2010 including an additional 500 CE places to bring the total number of places to 23,300.

Redundancy Payments.

Deirdre Clune

Question:

130 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of persons that have applied for redundancy payments for each year between 2005 and 2009 in tabular form; the number that received redundancy payments between the years 2005 and 2009; the number that were advised to take a case to the Employment Appeals Tribunal due to the fact that their employer had not provided adequate information to her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12419/10]

Deirdre Clune

Question:

131 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount that has been paid out in redundancy payments for each year between 2005 and 2009 in tabular form; the amount that has been reimbursed to employers who have paid redundancy to employees and who are seeking to recover 60% from her Department for each year between 2005 and 2009; the amount that has been paid out directly to employees of companies who have not been able to pay them directly for each year from 2005 to 2009; the amount that has been recovered by her Department from such companies for each year from 2005 to 2009; the amount that her Department is seeking to recover from companies where it paid redundancy to employees; the amount that her Department is seeking to recover some or all of that from the company for each year from 2005 to 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12420/10]

Deirdre Clune

Question:

132 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of companies which have claimed an inability to pay redundancy for each year between 2005 and 2009 in tabular form; the number of employees that were affected for each year from 2005 to 2009; the number of these companies which failed to provide sufficient information to her Department to allow their employees to be paid redundancy each year from 2005 to 2009; the number of employees that were denied redundancy or asked to take a case to the Employment Appeals Tribunal as a result of such failures by their employers each year from 2005 to 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12421/10]

Deirdre Clune

Question:

133 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the timeframe employees seeking redundancy from her Department but were asked to take a case to the Employment Appeals Tribunal are waiting for their cases to be heard by the Employment Appeals Tribunal; the timeframe they are waiting for redundancy payments from the date of application for each year from 2005 to 2009; if she has reviewed this problem in view of the fact that such employees are being penalised for the actions of their employers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12422/10]

Deirdre Clune

Question:

134 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps she takes to recover money from an employer, when that employer has refused to pay redundancy, but has been unable to prove that they are unable to pay redundancy and when the employees involved have secured a decision from the Employment Appeals Tribunal that they are entitled to redundancy and this has been paid by her Department; the number of employers that fall into this category; the amount that her Department is seeking to recover from such employers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12423/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 130 to 134, inclusive, together.

I must advise the Deputy that the level of information requested in the questions is extremely detailed and would consume considerable resources within what is currently a very busy area of my Department to provide the information requested. I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that the main focus of the Redundancy Payments Section currently is to dispatch redundancy payment claims to individuals and businesses as quickly as possible.

Under the Redundancy Payments Acts 1967-2007, the objective is to ensure that statutory redundancy payments, due to eligible employees on being made redundant, are made in accordance with the legislative provisions. The legislation places the onus, in the first instance, on the employer to discharge the obligation to pay redundancy entitlement to employees. In so doing, the employer is entitled, by virtue of pay related social contributions made to the State, to recover a 60% rebate on the amount paid out in redundancy payments to employees.

In the case of liquidations/receiverships/examinerships and in cases of informal insolvency where the employer provides proof of inability to pay the redundancy entitlements to employees, the Department pays the redundancy lump sums directly to the employees from the Social Insurance Fund (SIF) and then seeks to recover 40% of the amount paid out as this is the company's share of the liability of the employees' statutory payment.

In circumstances where proof of inability to pay on the part of the employer is not provided, or the employer refuses to pay the redundancy lump sum payments to employees, it is the case that the Department refers those employees to the Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) to obtain a determination of their right and entitlement to a redundancy lump sum. Where a positive determination is obtained from the EAT, this enables the Department to pay the employees directly from the SIF and the Department then endeavours to recover from the employer the amount paid out from the Fund — 40% in the case of employers where proof of inability to pay could not be provided and, in the case of employers who refused to pay the redundancy entitlements in the first instance, the Department seeks to recover to the SIF 100% of the amount paid out.

Under Section 43 of the Redundancy Payments Act 1967 (as amended) amounts owing to the Fund are recoverable as debts due to the State and, without prejudice to any other remedy, may be recovered by the Minister as a debt under statute in any court of competent jurisdiction. The Minister's claim has preferential status under Section 42 of the Redundancy Payments Act 1967 (as amended).

The Department does not collate information regarding the number of cases in which it has advised employees to have recourse to the EAT owing to either insufficient proof of inability to pay on the part of the employer or, refusal by the employer to pay the entitlements of employees.

The Employment Appeals Tribunal is an independent, quasi-judicial body under the aegis of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. It deals with claims under 18 different pieces of legislation. I am informed that it is not currently possible to disaggregate the numbers of claims received under the different pieces of legislation — it is possible to disaggregate once the claims are dealt with. Overall, the numbers of claims to the Tribunal have shown a marked increase in the last two years in particular, from 3,173 in 2007 to 5,457 in 2008, and rising to 9,458 in 2009.

The degree of increase in the number of claims received has naturally placed considerable pressure on case processing timeframes before the EAT. However, a number of steps have been taken to relieve this pressure. These include increasing the allocation of administrative resources to the Tribunal in the past two years, increasing the numberii of sittings per day, to a total of 924 in 2007, 1,304 in 2008, up to a total of 1,437 in 2009.

Efficiencies introduced in the Tribunal have increased the rate of throughput of claims from 2,807 in 2007 to 4,007 in 2008 and rising to 4,680 in 2009. Included in these figures are claims dealt with under the Redundancy Payments Acts as follows:

2007 — 546

2008 — 1,038

2009 — 1,420.

In addition, I have increased the pool of people available to sit on Tribunal Hearings by 9. Work is underway in relation to the IT system operated by the Tribunal in order to upgrade it and consideration is being given to the possible installation of a new IT system. The situation in the Tribunal is under constant review and further action will be taken as necessary within the constraints that exist in relation to resources.

The Redundancy Payments Section of my Department is currently processing rebate applications submitted by post from June 2009 and those filed online from August 2009, so that the waiting time is approximately 6 to 8 months depending on the manner of filing the application. In respect of lump sum payments paid directly to employees in instances where employers are unable to pay the statutory redundancy entitlements, the Section is, in general, processing claims dating from August 2009. For the years 2005 to early 2008 the Department's target for processing claims was 6 weeks for online claims and 10 weeks for manual claims submitted by post. Since then the processing times have extended continually due to the influx of redundancy claims resulting from the economic downturn.

My Department has, in 2009, processed 50,664 claims, up 70% on 2008, and made corresponding payments totalling €336m which results in average weekly payments to the value of €6.5m being issued. In the period 2007-2009, the level of new claims lodged with my Department has increased cumulatively by 200%. This contrasts with the previous two-year period 2005-2007 in which period the increase in new claims lodged was just 10%.

Efforts have been made by the Tánaiste and myself to deliver more acceptable turnaround processing times for redundancy payments given the difficulties that this gives rise to for both individual employees and the business community.

Measures already taken include:

the reassignment of 26.7 additional staff (full time equivalents) from other areas of the Department to the Redundancy Payments area since early 2009 with ongoing review of trends and demands. The current number of staff serving in the Redundancy Payments Section in terms of full time equivalents is 52.5;

the prioritisation of the Department's overtime budget towards staff in the Redundancy Payments Section to tackle the backlog outside normal hours;

the establishment of a special call handling facility to deal with the huge volume of telephone calls from people and businesses who are naturally concerned about their payments, using the facilities and cooperation of the National Employment Rights Authority (NERA). This centre has received an average of 12,500 calls per month this year with an estimated 60% relating to redundancy payments;

The provision of better quality information relating to current processing times on the Department's website;

Engagement with the Revenue Commissioners to facilitate the offset of redundancy rebate payments by employers against outstanding tax liabilities with the Revenue Commissioners.

The Tánaiste and I are monitoring closely the impact of these changes against the continuing influx of redundancy claims and it is clear that additional measures are required to help reduce the backlog of claims which currently stands in excess of 39,000. The Department is currently actively engaged in efforts to secure up to 16 additional staff resources deployed to the area in the first half of 2010.

Table 1 sets out the number of statutory redundancy applications received for the years 2005 to 2009.

Tables 2 and 3 set out the total amount paid by the Department out of the Social Insurance Fund in respect of redundancy claims for the years 2005-2009.

In the years 2005 to 2009, the Department has been successful in recovering to the Social Insurance Fund amounts of €2.2m, €0.4m, €0.7m, €0.9m and €3.6m respectively as shown in Table 4.

The cumulative debt outstanding which the Department is seeking to recover to the Social Insurance Fund as it stood at each year end is €24.9m, €31.1m, €37.7m, €48.5m and €78.7m respectively as shown in Table 5.

Table 1: Actual Statutory Redundancies for years 2005 to 2009

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

23,156

23,684

25,459

40,607

77,001

Table 2: Expenditure from the SIF on Statutory Redundancies for years 2005 to 2009

Category of Claim

2005

2006

2007

2008*

2009*

Rebate to Employers

137,915,574

152,168,532

167,390,542

161,774,389

247,891,733

Lump Sum to employees

11,257,620

14,343,692

15,937,492

31,936,998

87,970,092

Total

149,173,194

166,512,224

183,328,034

193,711,387

335,861,925

Table 3: Redundancy Payments made from the Social Insurance Fund (€) including breakdown of lump sum payments made

Category

2005

2006

2007

2008*

2009*

Rebate to employers

137,915,574

152,168,532

167,390,542

161,774,389

247,891,733

Lump Sum 60%

5,985,141

7,700,138

8,721,499

17,873,894

50,906,127

Lump Sum 40%

3,991,538

5,115,416

5,842,876

11,930,101

34,569,646

Lump sum 100%

1,280,940

1,528,137

1,373,117

2,133,003

2,494,209

Total

149,173,194

166,512,224

183,328,035

193,711,387

335,861,716

Please note that rows 2 and 3 (lump sum 60% and lump sum 40%) of Table 3 split out the amount of the payments made in respect of employees in situations of liquidation or receivership or companies in informal insolvency. To find the total amount paid out the figures in both rows for each year should be aggregated and the amount which the Department seeks to recover is the 40% amount on row 3.

Table 4: Recoveries in Respect of Redundancy Payments (€)

Year

2005

2,199,478

2006

434,468

2007

657,978

2008*

948,606

2009*

3,589,802

Note the amounts recovered in each year relates to monies recovered for the current year and earlier years.

Table 5: Amounts Outstanding due to SIF in respect of Redundancy Payments (€)

Year

2005

24,913,154

2006

31,122,241

2007

37,680,257

2008*

48,493,602

2009*

78,673,864.61

All figures are cumulative figures

Please note that figures for both 2008 and 2009 in tables 2, 3, 4 and 5 are *provisional figures.

Smart Economy.

Simon Coveney

Question:

135 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the way she plans to promote the expanding cloud computing technology sector here; if she is actively seeking investment here from technology companies engaged in cloud computing services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12466/10]

Simon Coveney

Question:

136 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views on whether investment in cloud computing should be part of her smarter economy strategy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12467/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 135 and 136 together.

Cloud computing is one of the most important transformations in the IT industry since the adoption of the Internet, as it facilitates computing-on-demand rather than computing-on-premise. This enables users to use just as much computing power as they need and to pay for it according to their demand. As such it enables convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, and services) that can be rapidly deployed with minimal management effort or service provider interaction.

It is clear from both the Government's Smart Economy policy and the recently published Innovation Taskforce report that internet-based technologies, including cloud computing, will underpin the development and further growth of the IT sector here and assist Ireland's economic recovery and growth. Internet-based technologies and business models are a key feature of innovation and productivity and cloud computing in particular will enable companies to control their IT costs by reducing expenditure on IT equipment and infrastructure in favour of using hosted facilities.

Business opportunities are being driven by existing communications-intensive sectors, which includes cloud computing, and Ireland is already taking a lead in a number of areas in this regard, supported through the efforts of the enterprise development agencies.

For example, IDA Ireland has identified data centres and ecosystem services around cloud computing as an important growth area for Ireland, leveraging off the significant investments already made here by leading ICT multinationals and IDA clients such as IBM, Hewlett Packard and Intel. The IDA's aim is to win further investments that result from convergence, enabled by technologies such as cloud computing. New collaborations between existing clients in different sectors and between those clients and other firms and/or universities in Ireland are increasing and will be a source of jobs in the next five years.

Enterprise Ireland's Strategy for Development of the Software Sector features transition programmes to assist software companies to change their business models to take advantage of Cloud computing. These programmes will address a range of issues including data protection, confidentiality and security.

There are a number of very significant research groups in the higher education institutions, either currently or previously funded by Science Foundation Ireland, which are working in the cloud computing area, and examples include:

The Computer Architecture and Grid Research Group at Trinity College Dublin;

The Hamilton Institute at NUI Maynooth;

The Digital Enterprise Research Institute (DERI) — a SFI Centre for Science, Engineering and Technology based at NUI Galway.

In addition to currently funded groups, Science Foundation Ireland also has a number of additional research proposals currently under review in the cloud/data centre area. These investments will help underpin the development of cloud computing in Ireland.

Investment in Cloud computing is a significant opportunity for the private sector where the significant business potential of providing services in this area is recognised. The Government and enterprise development agencies can, and are, providing significant assistance in realising the potential of cloud computing.

Organisation of Working Time Act.

Mary Wallace

Question:

137 Deputy Mary Wallace asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the details in relation to the working time Act in connection with a person who is working in two different places of work; the maximum hours that this person would be entitled to work; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12479/10]

The Organisation of Working Time Act 1997 provides that an employee shall not work more than an average of 48 hours a week averaged generally over a 4 month reference period. In relation to employees whose work is subject to seasonality or to a foreseeable surge in activity, or where employees are directly involved in ensuring continuity of service or production, the reference period is 6 months. The reference period can be extended up to 12 months in respect of employees who have entered into a collective agreement providing for such a reference period and, provided the collective agreement is approved by the Labour Court.

Night workers shall not work more than an average of 48 hours a week averaged over a 2 month period or longer if a collective agreement is approved by the Labour Court. However, night workers whose work involves special hazards or heavy physical or mental strain shall not work more than a total of 48 hours a week.

The 1997 Act also provides that an employee is entitled to a break of 15 minutes after working more than four and a half hours and a further break of 15 minutes after working more than six hours. If a break is not taken after more than four and a half hours work, a 30 minute break may be taken after more than six hours work.

The Act provides that an employee is entitled to eleven consecutive hours rest in a twenty four hour period and thirty five consecutive hours rest in a seven day period. If an employee does not receive the thirty five hour rest period in seven days he/she is entitled to a rest period of fifty nine consecutive hours in 14 days.

These terms apply to a worker or employee under a single contract of employment with his/her employer, to include a person who is working in two different places of employment for such employer. As regards a worker who works under more than one contract of employment for a single employer, section 15(1) of the 1997 Act provides that an employer shall not permit an employee to work more than an average of 48 hours in each period of seven days. As regards a worker who works under more than one contract of employment for more than one employer, Section 33 of the 1997 Act provides that the aggregate of the hours he or she works for both employers cannot exceed an average of 48 hours per week.

EU Globalisation Fund.

James Bannon

Question:

138 Deputy James Bannon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding her application for assistance from the EU globalisation fund for workers who have been made redundant in recent times in view of the fact that there are 15,000 unemployed people in counties Longford and Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12539/10]

I refer to the answer to Question Nos. 53 and 102 of the 9th March 2010.

The European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) applications from Ireland to date have not been made on a specific geographical basis and my Department continues to monitor redundancies nationwide in order to assess whether further applications, which must meet strict EGF Regulation criteria and conditions, can be successfully made by Ireland.

Work Placement Programme.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

139 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the work placement programme will be available for 2010 graduates; the number of places that will be available; the details of the way and when they can be applied for; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12546/10]

The Work Placement Programme is available for 2010 graduates. There are 2,000 places on the Work Placement Programme and half of these are available for graduates who have a full award at level 7 or higher on the National Framework of Qualifications. There are approximately 560 individuals currently participating in placements on the programme.

Individuals wishing to participate in the Work Placement Programme should contact their local FÁS Employment Service Office to register for the programme and explore the various work placements that are currently available.

Job Creation.

Damien English

Question:

140 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs created and lost by the Industrial Development Agency in 2009 and to date in 2010 on a county basis in tabular form. [12548/10]

The Forfás Annual Employment Survey reports on job gains and losses in companies that are supported by the industrial development agencies. Data is compiled on an annualised basis and therefore figures for 2010 will not be available until early 2011.

Details of the number of new jobs created and lost on a county basis in respect of IDA Ireland client companies for 2009 are set out in the tabular statement.

Table showing the number of jobs created and lost in IDA supported companies during 2009

County

Jobs created in 2009

Jobs lost in 2009

Carlow

49

75

Cavan

18

56

Clare

116

93

Cork

1,082

2,432

Donegal

62

29

Dublin

1,786

6,805

Galway

429

1,178

Kerry

25

416

Kildare

29

1,491

Kilkenny

0

112

Laois

0

16

Leitrim

5

30

Limerick

169

2,519

Longford

8

74

Louth

34

272

Mayo

97

189

Meath

24

159

Monaghan

19

14

Offaly

22

118

Roscommon

9

89

Sligo

54

137

Tipp North

0

188

Tipp South

252

93

Waterford

71

569

Westmeath

219

527

Wexford

8

89

Wicklow

28

258

Community Employment Schemes.

Willie Penrose

Question:

141 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason there are cutbacks taking place in relation to the approval of community employment schemes in west Tipperary, where a considerable number of persons are not going to be re-engaged; if she will take steps to save this position; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12585/10]

FÁS South-East Region is currently reviewing its Community Employment (CE) projects within the Region that includes West Tipperary with a view to creating a greater equity whereby the number of CE places will relate to the numbers on the Live Register throughout the Region.

EU Directives.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

142 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the main purpose of the Shareholders Rights Directive 2007/36/EC Regulations 2009 signed on 6 August 2009 is to enhance the rights of shareholders; if these enhanced rights include access to possible election as a director of financial institution at an AGM or EGM; if covered institutions are subject to this directive; and if covered institutions are adhering to this directive, referring in particular to a bank (details supplied). [12613/10]

The purpose of the Regulations referred to by the Deputy is to implement the Shareholders' Rights Directive on the exercise of certain rights attaching to voting shares in relation to general meetings of listed companies. The Regulations, transposed as S.I. 316 of 2009, apply to companies whose registered office is in the State and whose shares are admitted to trading on a regulated market situated or operating within a Member State. In practice this means companies listed and trading on the Main Market of the Irish Stock Exchange as well as any company trading on a regulated market in another Member State having its registered office in Ireland.

The main provisions of the Regulations are as follows:

Provides for shareholder participation across borders without the need to physically attend meetings, notably through the exercise of voting rights electronically;

Obliges companies to answer shareholders' questions at general meetings;

Obliges companies to publish documents and information regarding a general meeting on their website, including the result of votes taken;

Allows shareholders representing at least 5% of the voting shares in a company the right to call a general meeting (previously a holding of 10% was required);

Allows shareholders holding 3% of the issued share capital and representing at least 3% of the voting shares in a company the right to put items on the agenda and table draft resolutions for an annual general meeting; and

Strengthens shareholders' rights in relation to the appointment of proxies at general meetings.

There is no provision either in the Directive or the transposing Regulations providing specifically for access to possible election as a Director of a Financial Institution.

It is assumed that the Deputy's reference to covered institutions refers to those institutions covered by the Bank Guarantee Scheme. The Regulations only apply to the two main banks. The Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement (ODCE) is responsible for enforcement of the Regulations. If the Deputy is aware of any instances of non-compliance on the part of the institutions subject to the Regulations, he should communicate these to the Director of Corporate Enforcement who is independent in the exercise of his statutory functions.

Job Creation.

Sean Fleming

Question:

143 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the job losses and jobs created in 2008 and 2009 by the Industrial Development Authority on a county basis; the number of jobs that are in the IDA assisted businesses in each of these counties on 30 September 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12617/10]

The Forfás Annual Employment Survey reports on job gains and losses in companies that are supported by the industrial development agencies. Data is compiled on an annualised basis and is aggregated at county level. The number of jobs created and lost in IDA supported companies, on a county by county basis, in each of the years 2008 and 2009 is set out in the tabular statement, together with the total number of jobs in IDA supported companies in each of those years.

Table showing the number of jobs created and lost in IDA supported companies, on a county by county basis in each of the years 2008 and 2009, as well as the total number of jobs in IDA supported companies in each of those years

2008

2008

2008

2009

2009

2009

County

Number of new jobs created

Number of jobs lost

Total number of jobs

Number of new jobs created

Number of jobs lost

Total number of jobs

Carlow

74

28

457

49

75

431

Cavan

32

26

1,071

18

56

1,033

Clare

139

16

1,144

116

93

1,167

Cork

2,108

1,488

21,223

1,082

2,432

19,873

Donegal

67

48

1,650

62

29

1,683

Dublin

4,340

4,196

52,745

1,786

6,805

47,726

Galway

610

764

9,661

429

1,178

8,912

Kerry

86

108

1,798

25

416

1,407

Kildare

113

584

10,593

29

1,491

9,131

Kilkenny

1

9

468

0

112

356

Laois

0

20

129

0

16

113

Leitrim

35

43

1,013

5

30

988

Limerick

286

694

8,615

169

2,519

6,265

Longford

30

88

847

8

74

781

Louth

121

433

1,875

34

272

1,637

Mayo

132

126

3,010

97

189

2,918

Meath

83

83

950

24

159

815

Monaghan

15

14

351

19

14

356

Offaly

24

47

1,109

22

118

1,013

Roscommon

41

1

897

9

89

817

Sligo

103

64

2,273

54

137

2,190

Tipperary North

13

46

550

0

188

362

Tipperary South

262

26

3,217

252

93

3,376

Waterford

176

483

6,079

71

569

5,581

Westmeath

134

264

2,128

219

527

1,820

Wexford

91

73

1,190

8

89

1,909

Wicklow

53

296

2,329

28

258

2,099

Sean Fleming

Question:

144 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the job losses and jobs created in 2008 and 2009 by the Enterprise Ireland on a county basis; the number of jobs that are in the Enterprise Ireland assisted businesses in each of these counties on 30 September 2009. [12618/10]

In the time available it is not possible to provide the information requested.

Food Marketing.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

145 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her plans to prosecute companies marketing food products as Irish when they have been produced in Northern Ireland which is part of the United Kingdom; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12628/10]

Primary responsibility in relation to the marketing, promotion and labelling of food products lies with my colleagues the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries and the Minister for Health and Children and the relevant agencies operating under their auspices and I have no direct function in relation to such matters.

Insofar as my own area of responsibility is concerned, the Consumer Protection Act 2007 includes specific provisions in relation to the provision of information to consumers in the course of commercial transactions. Specifically the Act provides that the provision of false information in relation to the geographical or commercial origin of a product and where that information would be likely to cause the average consumer to make a transactional decision that the average consumer would not otherwise make that such a practice is a misleading commercial practice. Traders who engage in misleading commercial practices commit an offence and are liable on conviction on indictment or on summary conviction, as the case may be, to the fines and penalties provided for under the Act.

Evidence of traders engaging in misleading commercial practices should be brought to the attention of the National Consumer Agency, which is the body responsible for the enforcement of the Consumer Protection Act 2007.

FÁS Training Programmes.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

146 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding the apprenticeship retention programme within FÁS; the steps she is taking to ensure that apprentices who are being let go by their sponsors can finish their apprenticeships; the further steps she is taking to ensure that apprentices who are being let go by their sponsors can qualify with a qualification even if they may not get to finish their full apprenticeship which is out of their control; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12629/10]

Arthur Morgan

Question:

147 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the funding for the apprenticeship retention programme to make sure that these apprenticeships are able to finish their training and work placements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12630/10]

Arthur Morgan

Question:

148 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her plans to address the situation that many FÁS apprentices find themselves in having being let go without completing their formal qualifications. [12631/10]

Arthur Morgan

Question:

149 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of apprentices within six to 12 months of completion of their apprenticeship without a job placement; the type of apprenticeship involved; the cost to subsidise these work placements to encourage sponsors to keep apprentices; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12632/10]

Arthur Morgan

Question:

150 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her plans for apprentices who have been unable to complete their training due to the unavailability of work placements; the way they can continue their apprenticeships; the number of apprentices that have had their apprenticeships on hold in the past 18 months due to this situation; the cost to subsidise these work placements to encourage businesses to sponsor apprentices; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12633/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 146 to 150, inclusive, together.

FÁS has already put the following measures in place to assist redundant apprentices:

1. FÁS has put in place an interim measure whereby redundant apprentices may progress to the next off-the-job training phase of their apprenticeship, in line with current scheduling criteria. In 2009, over 2,000 redundant apprentices were provided with off-the-job training. To date in 2010, 1,041 redundant apprentices commenced off-the-job training in January 2010, and 1,008 are currently being scheduled to commence in April 2010 Phase 4 and Phase 6 off-the-job training in the Institutes of Technology and Colleges of Further Education

2. In 2009, FÁS introduced a temporary Employer Based Redundant Apprentice Rotation Scheme for apprentices made redundant in the Construction Industry. Over 460 redundant apprentices completed Phase 3, 5 and 7 on-the-job training and assessments with employers under this Scheme in 2009. A new Redundant Apprentice Placement Scheme which will replace the Rotation Scheme in 2010, is under development and this will assist redundant apprentices to complete the on-the-job training of their apprenticeships with a FÁS approved employer. The Redundant Apprentice Placement Scheme is expected to provide 750 places for redundant apprentices to commence on-the-job training at Phase 3 and Phase 5 during 2010 based on applications from eligible employers. A budget of €3.875m has been allocated to the scheme.

3. A joint ESB Networks / FÁS programme commenced in March 2009 where on-the-job training with ESB Networks is provided to eligible redundant apprentices at Phases 5 and 7 of their apprenticeship. This programme will provide up to 400 places over a period of 18 months and is funded by ESB Networks. To date, 184 redundant apprentices have completed training, 106 are currently in training, and further placements will take place during 2010.

4. FÁS has also developed Phase 7-equivalent assessments for redundant apprentices at the final phase of their apprenticeship in the trades of Carpentry & Joinery, Electrical, Plumbing, Brick & Stonelaying and Plastering. Redundant Apprentices are being scheduled to the assessments events in accordance with the scheduling calendar.

5. Redundant apprentices registered for 4 years who have successfully completed all Phases 1-7 of their apprenticeship, but have not yet completed the required 4 years in employment as an apprentice in the specified trade, will be contacted by FÁS to submit a portfolio of evidence under Recognition of Prior Learning for consideration by the National Apprenticeship Advisory Sub-committee for the award of the Advanced Craft Certificate.

6. Redundant apprentices may also avail of existing trade-related specific skills training courses to enhance their employable skills. They may also avail of the range of trade-related evening courses available in FÁS Training Centres.

In response to Question Number 149, the numbers and apprenticeship types of those apprentices within six to 12 months of completion of their apprenticeship without a job placement are set out in the Appendix.

In response to Question Number 150, the number of apprentices recorded as redundant in 2008 and who currently have the same status / phase is 645.

Appendix — Redundant Apprentices within 6 to 12 months of completion of apprenticeship*

Trade Description

5C

5H

6C

6S

6W

7C

7F

7H

Total

Agricultural Mechanics

1

3

4

Aircraft Mechanics

16

1

1

18

Brick & Stonelaying

21

32

80

32

59

7

146

377

Cabinet Making

9

4

4

2

19

3

32

73

Carpentry & Joinery

55

86

8

192

100

145

39

413

1,038

Construction Plant Fitting

1

1

3

1

3

1

3

13

Electrical

14

29

36

100

13

137

103

297

729

Electrical Instrumentation

1

1

Floor & Wall Tiling

3

1

3

4

11

Heavy Vehicle Mechanics

1

1

4

6

Instrumentation

1

1

2

4

M.A.M.F.

4

2

1

3

1

7

18

Metal Fabrication

1

2

2

7

3

10

1

23

49

Motor Mechanics

4

9

15

21

31

80

Painting & Decorating

2

9

6

10

9

29

65

Plastering

12

10

26

7

19

5

65

144

Plumbing

62

64

60

104

61

139

20

271

781

Print Media

1

1

Refrigeration

1

5

1

8

15

Sheet Metalworking

2

5

2

12

21

Toolmaking

2

2

Vehicle Body Repairs

8

3

4

4

9

28

Wood Machinery

1

1

2

4

Total

178

242

122

547

234

577

223

1,359

3,482

Apprentices who have successfully completed at least Phase 4 of their apprenticeship ie Apprentice registered before 22/3/2007.

5C = Apprentice required to complete a minimum of 6 months with a FÁS approved Employer on Phase 5.

5H = Apprentice on hold — Phase 3 on-the-job results not received from Employer.

6C = Apprentices currently attending Phase 6 off-the-job training in the Institutes of Technology.

6S = Apprentices currently being scheduled to do off-the-job training.

6W = Apprentices waiting for Phase 6 off-the-job training.

7C = Apprentices required to complete Phase 7 with an Employer (minimum 12 weeks).

7F = Apprentices have not completed full duration of apprenticeship.

7H = Phase 5 / Phase 6 Results not received by FÁS or Apprentices referred.

EU Globalisation Fund.

Chris Andrews

Question:

151 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding the application for support for former workers at a company (details supplied) to up-skill under the European globalisation fund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12660/10]

The EGF application process from initiation to final decision is a lengthy procedure involving not just the European Commission but also the Council of Ministers and the European Parliament. In the case of the EGF application in relation to redundant workers at the DELL plant in Co. Limerick the approval process took some six months. Strict eligibility criteria apply and there is no guarantee of success if a sustainable case for EGF assistance cannot be made in support of a Member State's application. My Department is seeking to ensure that such a robust case is made and sustained. In this context Department officials are currently preparing a response to a request from the European Commission for further information in relation to the SR Technics application and it is hoped to complete this process in the next couple of weeks. In the interim State agencies such as FAS and Enterprise Ireland have made, and continue to make, the full range of their employment, training, guidance and advisory services available to all workers made redundant at S R Technics.

Furthermore, with a view to ascertaining those interventions, including in further and third level education, that redundant SR Technics workers might avail of in the event of a successful EGF application being made, an information event was held by a wide range of service providers in Dublin Airport in December 2009. I know that the full range of education programmes provided by the VEC and third level sector are also available to redundant SR Technics workers and that the education sector is also working to develop additional upskilling responses in anticipation of the approval of the EGF application. However, while every effort is being made to ensure such programmes can proceed as soon as possible, the further progression of any interventions to be funded specifically by the EGF must await the completion of the EGF application process. In relation to the length of time that EGF funding is available the timeframe permitted for eligible expenditure under the Fund is 24 months from the date of submission of an application, or from the date of commencement of relevant measures provided this is no later than 3 months after the application's submission.

Community Employment Schemes.

Mary Upton

Question:

152 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will respond to a query (details supplied). [12678/10]

The provisions of the Community Employment Programme allow for funding by FÁS of Community Employment (CE) sponsors to employ participants and supervisors up to the last day of their 65th year, at which point the entitlement to a State Pension becomes available. Consequently, funding from FÁS for such participants ceases on their 66th birthday, in line with the aims and objectives of the programme.

Unemployment Levels.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

153 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of registered apprentices unemployed in County Wexford; the initiatives that are planned by FÁS to address this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12695/10]

There are currently 260 unemployed apprentices registered in Co. Wexford. FÁS has already put the following measures in place to assist redundant apprentices:

1. FÁS has put in place an interim measure whereby redundant apprentices may progress to the next off-the-job training phase of their apprenticeship, in line with current scheduling criteria. In 2009, over 2,000 redundant apprentices were provided with off-the-job training. To date in 2010, 1,041 redundant apprentices commenced off-the-job training in January 2010, and 1,008 are currently being scheduled to commence in April 2010 Phase 4 and Phase 6 off-the-job training in the Institutes of Technology and Colleges of Further Education.

2. In 2009, FÁS introduced a temporary Employer Based Redundant Apprentice Rotation Scheme for apprentices made redundant in the Construction Industry. Over 460 redundant apprentices completed Phase 3, 5 and 7 on-the-job training and assessments with employers under this Scheme in 2009. A new Redundant Apprentice Placement Scheme which will replace the Rotation Scheme in 2010, is under development and this will assist redundant apprentices to complete the on-the-job training of their apprenticeship with a FÁS approved employer.

3. A joint ESB Networks / FÁS programme commenced in March 2009 where on-the-job training with ESB Networks is provided to eligible redundant apprentices at Phases 5 and 7 of their apprenticeship. This programme will provide up to 400 places over a period of 18 months and is funded by ESB Networks. To date, 184 redundant apprentices have completed training, 106 are currently in training, and further placements will take place during 2010.

4. FÁS and the Institutes of Technology have agreed the PP5 programme for redundant apprentices who have successfully completed Phases 1-4 of their apprenticeship and where an on or off-the-job training opportunity is not currently available to them. The programme has both a Construction Stream and an Engineering Stream, with a number of core skills modules related to apprenticeship and a number of electives in specific skills. The programme provides apprentices with a Level 5 FETAC award and allows for access and transfer of credits to other post-apprenticeship programmes. The Institutes of Technology are currently providing training to eligible redundant apprentices who responded to invitations issued in January 2010 by the Institutes of Technology providing the programme.

5. FÁS has also developed Phase 7-equivalent assessments for redundant apprentices at the final phase of their apprenticeship in the trades of Carpentry & Joinery, Electrical, Plumbing, Brick & Stonelaying and Plastering. Redundant Apprentices are being scheduled to the assessments events in accordance with the scheduling calendar.

6. Redundant apprentices registered for 4 years who have successfully completed all Phases 1-7 of their apprenticeships, but have not yet completed the required 4 years in employment as an apprentice in the specified trade, will be contacted by FÁS to submit a portfolio of evidence under Recognition of Prior Learning for consideration by the National Apprenticeship Advisory Sub-committee for the award of the Advanced Craft Certificate.

7. Redundant apprentices may also avail of existing trade-related specific skills training courses to enhance their employable skills. They may also avail of the range of trade-related evening courses available in FÁS Training Centres. FAS has advised that where the employment of a FÁS registered apprentice has been terminated due to insufficient work being available, he/she should:

Inform FÁS Services to Business immediately of his/her redundant status Register with the local FÁS Employment Services Office for assistance in securing new employment to enable him/her to continue their apprenticeship training.

Access information regarding employment vacancies by telephoning FÁS Jobs Ireland at Freephone 1 800 611 116 or on the FÁS Website (www.fas.ie) Keep FÁS Services to Business informed of all details relating to his/her apprenticeship employment with a FÁS approved employer so that this time may be credited in calculating the finish date of his/her apprenticeship.

It is important to point out that the onus is on redundant apprentices themselves to inform FÁS Services to Business immediately of his/her redundant status and register with their local FÁS Employment Services Office. Otherwise, the redundant apprentice may lose out on invaluable assistance in securing new employment which would enable him/her to continue their apprenticeship training.

Redundancy Payments.

Denis Naughten

Question:

154 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason for the delay in refunding a redundancy payment to a company (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12701/10]

My Department administers the Social Insurance Fund (SIF) in relation to redundancy matters on behalf of the Department of Social and Family Affairs. There are two types of payment made from the SIF — rebates to those employers who have paid statutory redundancy to eligible employees, and statutory lump sums to employees whose employers are insolvent and/or in receivership/liquidation. I can confirm that my Department received two rebate claims from the company concerned in February, 2009. Further information was requested in relation to the claims submitted and, while a reply was received which enabled one of the claims to be processed and paid, the information requested in respect of the second employee is still, according to my Department's records, outstanding. Upon receipt of the outstanding information in relation to the second employee and, providing it is in order, the claim will be processed.

Departmental Agencies.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

155 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her Department has given, or undertaken to give, public money to An Smaoineamh Mór Limited, a registered company currently advertising a competition under the style and title Your Country Your Call; if so the amount of money from what budget or programme it was taken and under what statutory power it was transferred; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12702/10]

Although it is not a Government-led initiative, the objectives of "Your Country Your Call" are to identify proposals which will have a significant positive economic impact on Ireland and which will help to secure sustainable employment. I view the initiative as being complementary to the work being carried out by my Department and its agencies. In this context, my Department is currently examining a proposal to provide funding of up to €300,000 to the "Your Country Your Call" initiative from within existing resources. No funding has yet been paid by my Department in respect of the initiative. However, if funding is made available, a key objective for my officials will be to ensure that the necessary financial procedures are followed and that mechanisms are put in place to ensure appropriate management and accountability of public funds.

Trade Union Representation.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

156 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a trade union official can be barred from representing their members at a creditor’s meeting of a company in the liquidation process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12725/10]

Section 68 of the Courts of Justice Act 1936 conferred powers on the Superior Courts Rules Committee to make rules for the practice and procedure of the courts to be applied in relation to compulsory liquidations. That rule making power was extended to voluntary liquidations by section 312 of the Companies Act 1963. I understand that the relevant Rules are found in Order 74 of the Rules of the Superior Court (as amended).

Redundancy Payments.

Joan Burton

Question:

157 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views on the decision of Aer Lingus to make cabin crew redundant with a view to re-hiring all bar 230 of them on new contracts with lower salaries; if the State will be called on to fund, or part fund, these redundancies through the social insurance fund; the proportion of those working at senior cabin crew level who are to be among the 230 people not being offered a new contract; the extent to which cabin and pilot teams are being based in jurisdictions abroad; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12741/10]

Finian McGrath

Question:

161 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will support a matter (details supplied). [12980/10]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

162 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if it is in order that a company can make several hundred workers compulsorily redundant with the specific intention of recruiting a large proportion of them back on vastly reduced terms and conditions; the liabilities of the State in such a scenario in terms of redundancy payments and rebates; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13073/10]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

163 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the protections that are in place to safeguard workers against being made compulsorily redundant by their employer in order to re-employ the same workers at vastly reduced terms and conditions as a means of reducing the wage and other staff costs of that employer; and the steps open to her to prevent such practice. [13078/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 157, 161,162 and 163 together.

In October 2009 Aer Lingus announced details of a cost savings programme aimed at reducing operating costs by €97 million, comprising staff savings of €74 million and non-staff cost savings of €23 million. Following four months of intense negotiation between Aer Lingus management and Unions, under the auspices of the Labour Relations Commission, the resulting joint agreements were put to Aer Lingus staff with a recommendation for acceptance by each of the respective unions. The results of the ballots were that the plan was accepted by four out of the five unions involved. Cabin crew rejected the plan by a 2:1 majority. Aer Lingus subsequently announced their plans to achieve the necessary cost savings.

As a result of further discussions at the Labour Relations Commission on 19 March, during which clarifications on the cost saving plan were given, cabin crew will ballot again on the restructuring package in the coming days. The restructuring process within Aer Lingus is therefore the subject of continuing dialogue with the trade unions representing the company's employees. I am satisfied that there is an adequate legal framework in this country governing restructuring arrangements at company level in the form of legislation covering collective redundancies and legislation covering information and consultation requirements.

In relation to the issue of redundancy and eligibility for redundancy payments, I should point out that redundancy is a matter of fact that occurs after the event of termination of employment. Qualification for an entitlement to the payment of statutory redundancy under the Redundancy Acts cannot be made until the full facts of the situation are known, after the event. When presented with redundancy claims for payment, the Department will have regard to the legislative provisions governing the eligibility of any such claims and can, if necessary, have the matter referred to the Employment Appeals Tribunal for a decision on any claims that might actually be made.

The Government is satisfied, from all of the information available to it, that a major restructuring of the Group's cost base is essential if Aer Lingus is to return to profitability and growth. The cost base of Aer Lingus is seriously out of line with that of its competitors. Airlines throughout the world are either rationalising or going out of business as a result of the global economic downturn. The Government want to see a strong viable Aer Lingus in the future. The cornerstones of Government aviation policy are competitiveness and connectivity. A viable Aer Lingus is key to ensuring the achievement of these objectives.

EU Directives.

Joan Burton

Question:

158 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the requirements under company law for shareholders of a listed company wishing to make resolutions at the company’s AGM for the appointment or removal of a director of that company; if there is a requirement that a shareholder, or group of shareholders, wishing to table such a resolution must hold at least 3% of the issued share capital in that company, representing at least 4% of the total voting rights of all members who have a right to vote at that meeting; if she plans to bring forward reforms to improve shareholders’ rights; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12750/10]

The Shareholders' Rights (Directive 2007/36/EC) Regulations 2009 (S.I. 316 of 2009) implemented the Shareholders' Rights Directive on the exercise of certain rights attaching to voting shares in relation to general meetings of listed companies. The Regulations apply to companies whose registered office is in the State and whose shares are admitted to trading on a regulated market situated or operating within a Member State. In practice this means companies listed and trading on the Main Market of the Irish Stock Exchange as well as any company trading on a regulated market in another Member State having its registered office in Ireland. The main provisions of the Regulations are as follows:

Provides for shareholder participation across borders without the need to physically attend meetings, notably through the exercise of voting rights electronically;

Obliges companies to answer shareholders' questions at general meetings;

Obliges companies to publish documents and information regarding a general meeting on their website, including the result of votes taken;

Allows shareholders representing at least 5% of the voting shares in a company the right to call a general meeting (previously a holding of 10% was required);

Allows shareholders holding 3% of the issued share capital and representing at least 3% of the voting shares in a company the right to put items on the agenda and table draft resolutions for an annual general meeting; and

Strengthens shareholders' rights in relation to the appointment of proxies at general meetings.

Departmental Expenditure.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

159 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the estimated cost of foreign travel, accommodation and related ministerial and official costs associated with Saint Patrick’s Day 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12816/10]

Details of the cost of travel, associated with Saint Patrick's Day, 2010, are not yet available . I will be pleased to forward them to the Deputy in due course.

County Enterprise Boards.

John Cregan

Question:

160 Deputy John Cregan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views on allowing some discretion to the county enterprise boards in order that applications for grant aid from persons wishing to start up their own businesses, where such applications refer to grant aid for commercial vehicles and or mechanically propelled agricultural vehicles, could be considered favourably. [12918/10]

The County Enterprise Boards (CEBs) have primary responsibility for the delivery of State support to the indigenous micro-enterprise sector i.e. businesses which employ 10 or less workers. The CEBs, through both financial and non-financial assistance, support the sector in the start-up and expansion phases and facilitate entrepreneurial activity at local level. There are three types of grant-aid available from the CEBs:

Priming Grants;

Business Expansion Grants;

Feasibility/Innovation Grants.

A Priming Grant is a start-up grant available to micro enterprises within the first 18 months of start-up. A Business Expansion/Development Grant is available to further grow a micro enterprise while a Feasibility/Innovation Grant is available to assist micro-enterprises with the cost of pre-start up studies carried out to assess demand for a new product or service, the appropriateness of funding plans and the general viability of the venture. The criteria under which funding is available from the CEBs is based on factors such as the sector of the economy in which an enterprise is operating or intends to operate and the size or proposed size of the enterprise.

the enterprise must be in the commercial sphere

the enterprise must demonstrate a market for the product/service

the enterprise must have a capacity for growth and new job creation

the enterprise must not employ more than 10 people

priority must be given to enterprises in the manufacturing or internationally traded services sector which can develop into strong export entities

it is considered inappropriate to support businesses in sectors such as retail, personal services, professional services and construction etc as these generally give rise to unacceptable deadweight and/or displacement within a local area.

While the range of expenditure which is regarded as eligible expenditure for grant-aid excludes the purchase of mobile assets such as commercial vehicles it is, none the less, quite a considerable range including the following;

Capital items including fit out of workspace, office equipment, machinery, computer costs

Salary costs for first year of employment

Rental/Accommodation costs for first year of the project

Utility costs including installation costs for telephone & broadband

Marketing costs including packaging, brochures, trade fairs, website design and development, patent fees and other marketing initiatives

Consultancy costs including design fees, architect, accountant and legal fees

Business training costs for key Personnel central to the growth of the business

Some miscellaneous costs relating specifically to Feasibility/Innovation Grants.

I am confident that the current mix of grant types, the criteria underlying these grant types, and the broad range of eligible expenditure ensures that a significant number of viable start-up and existing micro-enterprises can access significant levels of financial assistance from the CEBs.

Questions Nos. 161 to 163 inclusive, answered with Question No. 157.

Flood Relief.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

164 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Finance the funding that is available to Wicklow County Council to undertake non-coastal flood relief works, particularly in the upland areas of south Wicklow and east Carlow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12604/10]

Under a scheme introduced in 2009, the Office of Public Works wrote to all Local Authorities seeking prioritised applications for funding for localised minor flood mitigation works that the Authorities propose to undertake. In 2010 to date, a number of applications have been submitted by Wicklow County Council and one application has been submitted by Carlow County Council. These are currently being assessed in conjunction with applications received from other Local Authorities. A decision will be made shortly in relation to these applications. It is open to all Local Authorities, including Wicklow County Council or Carlow County Council, to submit further applications in relation to works that meet the economic and environmental eligibility criteria of this scheme. Any applications will be considered, having regard to the overall funding available for such works.

Pension Provisions.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

165 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance the reason the national pensions framework which he recently published projects that spending on public pensions will increase to 15% by 2050 whereas the OECD country report on Ireland, the content of which was signed off by the Government, projects a significantly lower increase. [12621/10]

The OECD Economic Survey: Ireland 2009, which was published last November, contains pension cost projections for Ireland which were taken from the 2009 Ageing Report which was prepared by the European Commission and published at the end of last April. These projections were based on a set of assumptions which ensured comparability between all EU Member States. The reason for the different results in these two publications is that pension projections included in the National Pensions Framework were based on a different set of assumptions and covered a different reference period to those in the 2009 Ageing Report. Notwithstanding these differences, however, both sets of projections show the same picture of continuously increasing pension costs over the long term. The Government’s decision to set out radical and wide-scale reform of the Irish pension system was taken in light of this long-term outlook.

EU Funding.

Denis Naughten

Question:

166 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding his application under the European solidarity fund for assistance on foot of the severe flooding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12647/10]

My Department made an application to the EU Commission on 27th January 2010 for funding under the EU Solidarity Fund based on estimates of damage received from Departments and local authorities. The application was formally acknowledged by the Commission on 24 February 2010. The EU Solidarity Fund does not fund full reconstruction nor does it fund prevention works. It funds emergency operations to allow a rapid return to normal living conditions.

A regional application was made as the estimate of the extent of the damage does not meet the Solidarity Fund's threshold of 0.6% of GNI or €935.5m for a national disaster. There are specific criteria which must be met to ensure a successful regional application to the EU Solidarity Fund. These criteria include the majority of the population of the region being affected by the disaster and serious and long lasting effects on the region's economic stability and living conditions. My Department continues to work with the Commission on finalising the costs underpinning the application.

Tax Code.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

167 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 1% increase in the higher rate of VAT. [12195/10]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

168 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 1% increase in the lower rate of VAT. [12196/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 167 and 168 together.

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 1% increase in the standard (21%) rate and the reduced (13.5%) rate of VAT is €311 million and €262 million respectively.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

169 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 1% increase in DIRT. [12200/10]

It is estimated that the yield to the Exchequer from increasing the DIRT rate by 1 per cent is €25m in a full year.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

170 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 1 cent, 5 cent and 10 cent increase in excise duty on unleaded petrol, per litre, and the associated consumer price index effect. [12201/10]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

171 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 1 cent, 5 cent and 10 cent increase in excise duty on auto diesel, per litre, and the associated consumer price index effect. [12202/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 170 and 171 together.

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the information requested is set out in the following table.

1 Cent

1 Cent

5 Cent

5 Cent

10 Cent

10 Cent

Est Yield

CPI effect

Est Yield

CPI effect

Est Yield

CPI effect

€m

€m

€m

Unleaded Petrol

Litre

17.9

0.026%

87.5

0.130%

173.2

0.259%

Auto Diesel

Litre

19.0

0.006%

94.5

0.032%

187.2

0.064%

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

172 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 1 cent, 5 cent and 10 cent increase in excise duty on beer, per pint, and the associated consumer price index effect. [12203/10]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

173 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 1 cent, 5 cent and 10 cent increase in excise duty on spirits, per glass, and the associated consumer price index effect. [12204/10]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

174 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 1 cent, 5 cent and 10 cent increase in excise duty on cider and perry, per pint, and the associated consumer price index effect. [12205/10]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

175 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 5 cent, 10 cent and 50 cent increase in excise duty on wine, per 75 cl, and the associated consumer price index effect. [12206/10]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

176 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 5 cent, 10 cent and 50 cent increase in excise duty on cigarettes, per pack of 20, and the associated consumer price index effect. [12207/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 172 to 176, inclusive, together.

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the information requested is as set out in the following two tables.

1 Cent

1 Cent

5 Cent

5 Cent

10 Cent

10 Cent

Est Yield

CPI effect

Est Yield

CPI effect

Est Yield

CPI effect

€m

€m

€m

Beer

Pint

7.1

0.014%

35.4

0.070%

70.3

0.141%

Spirits

Single Measure — Half glass

3.0

0.005%

15.0

0.025%

29.4

0.051%

Cider

Pint

1.1

0.002%

5.2

0.011%

10.4

0.022%

5 Cent

5 Cent

10 Cent

10 Cent

50 Cent

50 Cent

Est Yield

CPI effect

Est Yield

CPI effect

Est Yield

CPI effect

€m

€m

€m

Wine

75cl Bottle

3.0

0.006%

5.9

0.012%

27.7

0.060%

Cigarettes

Pack 20

8.5

0.022%

16.9

0.044%

83.1

0.222%

Public Service Pay.

Sean Sherlock

Question:

177 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance if salaries to third level institution staff paid for from research grants awarded by the EU can be subject to the cuts in public sector pay as outlined in budget 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12215/10]

I refer to my reply to Question No. 11794/10 of 10 March 2010: "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, regardless of the source of funding for that employment. I have no proposals to exempt persons in that position from the pay reductions."

National Asset Management Agency.

Joan Burton

Question:

178 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance if he will comment on recent media reports on the selection process for National Asset Management Agency board members; if the rejection rate for applicants was comparable to other public service recruitment processes; if he will publish the details of remuneration for NAMA board members; the annual cost of remuneration and expenses for the NAMA board; the level of participation, in terms of days per month that is expected of NAMA board members; if he will reconsider his decision to exclude NAMA from the Freedom of Information Acts; the way the absence of conflict of interest was established for appointees to the NAMA board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12235/10]

The Deputy will be aware that as part of the debate on the passage of the National Asset Management Agency (NAMA) legislation, I undertook, with cross party support, to conduct an expressions of interest process and consultation with party leaders to seek appointments to the Board.

As I indicated when the appointments were made on 22 December 2009 over 800 applications were received and considered. With the assistance of the Public Appointments Service and a former Secretary General of my Department these applications were reduced to 36 names from which, in addition to nominees which were submitted outside of this process, the final appointment of 7 members to the Board were made. The very nature of the expression of interest process means it is not comparable to a standard recruitment competition where the interested candidature would be necessarily more restrictive. As with any competition it is the merit of each individual application that determines if it is successful.

I revealed in an answer to a Parliamentary Question of 10 March 2010 the details of the remuneration of the Board members. They are as follows: Chairperson — all inclusive fee of €170,000 per annum on the understanding that the incumbent is available without restriction. Chairperson of Credit Committee — all inclusive fee of €150,000 per annum on the understanding that the incumbent works no less than 3 to 4 days a week. Ordinary Board Members (5 remaining board members) — fee of €50,000 per annum. Chair of other Committees — fee of €10,000 per annum in addition to Ordinary Board Member fee subject to a maximum of one per member.

The total cost in 2010 is therefore likely to be €470,000 and an additional amount dependent upon how many sub-committees are established by the Board of NAMA. However, given that board members can receive a maximum of one fee for Chairing another Committee and given the fact that neither the Chair nor the Chair of the credit Committee can receive this extra fee as their main fee is all-inclusive the maximum extra cost of payments to Chairs of other Committees is €50,000.

I further indicated that in setting the fees account was taken of the critical importance of the work to be undertaken by the Board and the fact that its workload will be excessive by normal standards in the first year of operation. I also indicated that I intended to review the fees after a year. The question of extending the application of the Freedom of Information Act 1997 to NAMA was discussed a number of times during the passage of the NAMA Bill 2009 through the houses of the Oireachtas.

Much of the information which NAMA will process in its day-to-day operations will be confidential commercial information attaching to the loan assets it acquires. The commercial and financial risks that would arise in connection with the disclosure of such information pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act 1997 would not be in the interests of NAMA, the Sate or the public. Such confidential third party information would not be released under the Freedom of Information Act and applying the FOI Act to it simply introduces extra bureaucracy with no additional transparency. There are already a range of other provisions in the Act which will ensure appropriate transparency and accountability of NAMA. Accordingly, I regarded such proposals as inappropriate and I therefore did not accept these amendments to the Bill and I stand by that decision and the rationale for it.

With regard to the question of conflicts of interest I would like to bring to the attention of the Deputy the fact that two of the criteria used in short listing were that the applicant was not currently working in any potential NAMA institution and secondly that there were no conflicts of interest apparent from the application. Furthermore the NAMA Act 2009 provides that all members of the board must furnish a valid tax clearance certificate within 3 months of appointment to the Board and I can confirm that this has been complied with for all current members of the Board.

Section 30 of the NAMA Act 2009 provides for matters relating to disclosure of interests by the Board members. Among other things it provides that if Board members do not adequately disclose interests and act in a hands-off manner where interests have been disclosed, they may be removed from office by the Minister. Section 31 further provides that NAMA shall keep a register of members' interests and update it at the beginning of each year.

Pension Provisions.

Joe Carey

Question:

179 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Finance his views on using the consumer price index as the basis for post retirement increases in respect of both existing and future pensions in the public service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12249/10]

I announced in Budget 2010 that, as part of the reform of the public service pension structure, I will review the current arrangements applying in the case of post-retirement pension increases and in this context will consider linking pensions to increases in the cost of living. The recent special report by the Comptroller and Auditor General estimated that the present actuarial cost of public service pensions is 108 billion euro. A change to a CPI basis for post-retirement increases would reduce that cost to 87 billion, a reduction of 20 per cent.

The cost implications of public service pensions have been borne out by successive recent studies including the National Pensions Review (2005), the Green Paper on Pensions (2007) and the Comptroller and Auditor General’s report on Public Service Pensions (2009). The C&AG’s report is especially telling as to the cost consequences if action is not taken. It estimates gross public service pension payments this year at 1.6% of GNP, and projects that this will rise to 2.4% by 2023, driven by fast growth in pensioner numbers. Thereafter costs are seen stabilizing at about 2.5% of GNP in the period 2023-2038, before accelerating again to reach 3.6% of GNP in 2058.

In this context, as the Deputy will be aware, the Government recently published a new National Pension Policy Framework (2010) to deal with these and other critical pension issues. The public service pension changes now being considered are within the scope of and firmly supportive of the broader reforms featuring in the framework.

Banking Sector Regulation.

Richard Bruton

Question:

180 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the number of indictable offences contained within the Central Bank Acts 1942 to 2004; and the number of summary offences contained within the Central Banks Acts 1942 to 2004. [12252/10]

Richard Bruton

Question:

181 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 49 of 28 January 2010, the number of prosecutions brought for offences under the Central Bank Acts 1942 to 2004 in each of the years 2004 to 2009; the number of prosecutions on indictment brought in each year; the number of summary prosecutions brought in each year; the number of convictions on indictment obtained in each year; the number of summary convictions obtained in each year; the reason in his previous answer to the same question he addressed the number of administrative sanctions imposed but not the number of prosecutions brought. [12253/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 180 and 181 together.

In August 2004 under the Administrative Sanctions Procedure (ASP), the Financial Regulator was given the power to impose Administrative sanctions on "regulated financial service providers" and on "persons concerned in the management of those entities" for breaches of prescribed contraventions of certain Designated Acts and Statutory Instruments.

Following a public consultation, in October 2005 the Financial Regulator adopted a general policy of dealing with cases where prescribed contraventions were also potentially criminal offences, under the ASP, instead of bringing summary prosecutions. This is in light of the limited penalties available pursuant to summary criminal prosecutions.

In 2005 the Financial Regulator was also given additional sanctioning powers under the Market Abuse (Directive 2003/6/EC) Regulations 2005 (the Market Abuse ASP) (to impose sanctions on various entities) and under S.I. No. 324 of 2005 — Prospectus (Directive 2003/71/EC) Regulations 2005. In 2007 the Financial Regulator was given further sanctioning powers under S.I. No. 277 of 2007 — Transparency (Directive 2004/109/EC) Regulations 2007. I am informed that to date the Financial Regulator has imposed Fines amounting to €7,372,500, 7 Disqualifications ranging from 1 to 5 years and 19 Reprimands. Details of all sanctions in any given year are published annually in the Financial Regulator's Annual Report. The sanctions imposed to date are broken down as follows:

2006

Sanctions were imposed under the ASP on 2 regulated financial service providers and upon 3 persons concerned in the management of those entities. These resulted in 3 individuals being disqualified from being persons concerned in the management of regulated financial services provider for a specified period [5 years and 18 months].

2007

Sanctions were imposed under the ASP on 4 regulated financial service providers. These resulted in: 3 Reprimands being imposed; and 1 Disqualification for a specified period [2 Years].

Market Abuse ASP Procedure: Sanctions were imposed upon 1 Company and 1 individual. These resulted in a fine of €5,000.

2008

Sanctions were imposed under the ASP on 9 regulated financial service providers and upon 5 persons concerned in the management of those entities. These resulted in: 10 Fines being imposed which totalled €3.695 million, 9 Reprimands and 2 Disqualifications for specified periods [5 years and 1 year]

Market Abuse Administrative Sanction Procedure: Sanctions were imposed upon 1 Company. These resulted in a fine of €10,000.

2009

Sanctions were imposed under the ASP on 10 regulated financial service providers and upon 1 person concerned in the management of those entities. These resulted in: 6 Fines being imposed which totalled €3,672,500, 8 Reprimands and 1 Disqualification for a specified period [2 years].

The Deputy will be aware that there are a number of offences contained within the Central Bank Acts 1942 to 2004. I have asked my officials to compile the relevant information. I will write directly to the Deputy when the information comes to hand.

Richard Bruton

Question:

182 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the titles, responsibilities, grades and professional qualifications of all staff employed in the Office of the Financial Regulator; if there are any unfilled positions within this office; and the titles, responsibilities and grades of all unfilled positions. [12254/10]

In accordance with the Central Bank of Ireland Act 1942 (as amended), the employment of staff in the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority (other than the Registrar of Credit Unions and the Chief Executive of the Authority) is a matter solely for the Board of the Bank, the Regulatory Authority and the Governor and is not a matter in which I have a role.

However, I am informed by the Authority that its approved manpower complement for 2010 is some 533. Of this, some 41 posts (8%) are at senior management level; some 349 posts(65%) are at senior officer level and some 143 posts (27%) are at clerical/administrative support level. There are about 160 vacant posts.

In March 2009, 81% of the Financial Regulator's staff held a minimum of a third level qualification or higher; 44% had qualifications at primary or master degree level; 21% held a professional accounting, legal or actuarial qualification; 16% held other qualifications, including Certificates and Diplomas, such as the Qualified Financial Advisor Diploma. Since then, 47 staff were recruited for regulatory departments. Of these, two hold PhD qualifications; 26 have master degrees or professional accounting, legal or actuarial qualifications; 14 hold a primary degree and two have diplomas.

Arrangements for the filling of vacancies at senior management level are in the final stages of the recruitment process. In recent weeks a large number of technical positions (aimed at senior officer level) have been advertised to fill some 80 positions within the organisation. This recruitment is aimed at widening the Regulatory Authority's expertise in the following areas: credit, treasury, market risk, legal, enforcement and policy. The Authority expects that a large number of these posts will be filled in the summer months. The remaining posts, which include a number of clerical or administrative positions, will be addressed shortly.

Richard Bruton

Question:

183 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance his plans to consolidate or reform the Central Bank Acts 1942 to 2004; the position regarding such plans; his further plans to bring amending legislation; and when such legislation will be published. [12255/10]

It is my intention to bring forward a Bill to consolidate the Central Bank Acts as part of a three stage legislative process. A Bill to give effect to institutional reforms within the Central Bank and Financial Services Regulatory Authority will be published very shortly. A second Bill to enhance the powers and functions of the Bank will follow. These Bills will form part of the Central Bank Acts and the publication of a consolidation Bill would not be appropriate until the first two stages of the process are complete.

Bank Closures.

Richard Bruton

Question:

184 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he was consulted before the announcement that a bank (details supplied) will close; if other options were considered to avoid the loss of service to customers and of jobs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12260/10]

I have said previously, that I was disappointed but not surprised that Postbank is to close at the end of the year. The management of commercial decisions made by Postbank, which include the decision to wind-down the institution, is a matter for An Post and its joint venture partner BGL BNP Paribas, and one in which I have no direct role.

In considering the future of Postbank, the partners explored a number of options to ensure the continuation of the Postbank operation, including the transfer of BNP's shareholding to another institution. I understand, however, that this was not considered to be viable. An Post has been providing some banking services as an agent for a leading bank for several years and I understand will continue to do so even after Postbank ceases to trade. The underlying strengths of the network will allow An Post to develop other strategic opportunities in the financial services business and the board and management of An Post are actively engaging in this process. I also understand that options are currently being considered that will result in a significant number of the jobs at Postbank being saved.

Deposit funds in Postbank are secure and I understand that Postbank will write to its customers in the coming weeks with information on the options that will be open to them. This process will be carried out in compliance with the Financial Regulator's Consumer Protection Code.

Car Scrappage Scheme.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

185 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Finance if he will extend the car scrappage scheme to include cases when a car is registered in one person's name and insured in another’s, such as a husband and wife; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12266/10]

The provisions of the car scrappage scheme as set out in Section 102 of the Finance Bill as published on 4 February 2010, provide that the car being scrapped,

must be registered in the State in the name of the registered owner of the new car for at least 18 months previous to the date of scrappage;

must be 10 years old or more from the date of first registration;

must be scrapped on or after 10 December 2009 and not later than 31 December 2010;

must be scrapped within 60 days of the date of the new car being registered, or have been scrapped within 60 days immediately before the date of the new car being registered;

must have a valid NCT test certificate, or one that has expired no more than 90 days immediately before the date of scrappage or documentation to indicate that it has been presented for and failed an NCT roadworthiness test in the previous 6 months;

must have been insured for use on the road in the name of the registered owner for at least 12 months in the 18 months immediately prior to the date of scrappage.

I received a number of representations regarding the fact that many vehicles are acquired for use as ‘family vehicles' and are frequently registered for VRT purposes in the name of one spouse, but insured in the name of the other spouse.

I have considered the matter further and I decided that the scope of the scheme under Section 102 of the Bill, be extended by making an amendment to the Finance Bill at Committee Stage providing that any reference to a "person" in the relevant subsection of the section may in the application of those provisions be construed by the Revenue Commissioners as a reference to either the person concerned, or to that person's spouse.

Consequently documentation in the name of one spouse is to be taken into account for the purposes of the other qualifying under the scheme. Following this change, documents relating to vehicle ownership and vehicle insurance can be presented in the name of either spouse in order to qualify for the repayment of VRT.

Departmental Properties.

Seán Connick

Question:

186 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Finance the number of buildings his Department is renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12289/10]

The Office of Public Works, under the auspices of the Department of Finance, rents space in some 430 buildings by way of 511 payable leases on behalf of Government departments and agencies.

Those leases, which exceed €5,000 per annum per lease, attracted a total cost in the region of €121 million for 2009. The average term of these leases is 18 years ranging from part year to 20 years plus. All buildings occupied by my Department are provided by the Office of Public Works.

Departmental Staff.

Richard Bruton

Question:

187 Deputy Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the number of staff in his Department, and any agency under his remit, who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12303/10]

In relation to my own Department, the number of staff employed in the various areas requested:

Payroll*

Financial Management*

HR Management

Procurement**

ICT Services**

Means Assessment

18.93

32.19

20.5 (incl. training)

5.6

34.5

0

*The payroll and financial management functions in my Department encompass those functions also carried out on behalf of a number of smaller Offices. In the case of the financial management function, it also includes the Accounts and Exchequer sections.

As my Department has a role which encompasses policy across the civil service in these areas, the figures shown above include all staff involved either on a central basis, or with specific responsibilities within my Department itself.

In relation to Offices/agencies under the aegis of my Department, I am advised that the following is the position:

Payroll

Financial Management

HR Management

Procurement

ICT Services

OPW (i)

6.80

36.95 (incl training)

23.70 (ii)

18.80

Revenue

42.23

60.96

63.26

20.50

312.59

Valuation Office

1.00

1.50

2.00

1.00

5.00

State Lab

0.30

4.95

3.45

3.00

3.00

CPSA

0.20

0.50

0.10

0.05

0.15

PAS

1.00

3.53

4.40

0.10

7.40

NTMA

0.00

19.00

3.00

0.00

11.00

There are no staff in any of the Offices listed involved in means assessment.

(i) In addition there are non established (industrial) staff employed in a combination of duties across the areas of procurement, payroll and financial management.

(ii) National Public Procurement Operations Unit staff — Many staff in other areas of OPW have procurement functions as part of their duties.

Tax Yield.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

188 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance the amount paid by an airline (details supplied) in departure tax in the period starting May 2009 to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12311/10]

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

189 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance the amount paid by an airline (details supplied) in departure tax in the period starting May 2009 to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12312/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 188 and 189 together.

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that their obligation to observe confidentiality for taxpayers and small groups of taxpayers involved precludes them from providing the information requested. However, I can say that the overall yield for the air travel tax from its inception is €99m — this yield is in respect of departing passengers in the ten months from April 2009 to January 2010.

EU Directives.

Joan Burton

Question:

190 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance his position on the alternative investment fund managers’ directive ahead of the discussion by ECOFIN on 16 March 2010; his views on whether hedge and private equity funds themselves must be regulated, not just the fund managers; his further views on whether the lower thresholds for application of the directive should be aligned with the new regime being proposed for the US or if the de minimis exemptions should be removed and that the marketing in the EU of alternative investment funds established in third countries, and covered by the directive, should require an effective, binding co-operation agreement, including exchange of information and tax cooperation, signed by the European Commission on behalf of all member states; if he is supportive of the limitation of the leverage ratio of hedge and private equity funds and if the European Commission, or another body, should be the responsible authority for setting these limits; if he is further supportive of the strengthening of disclosure, reporting and transparency requirements for hedge and private equity funds; his further views on whether improper conduct, such as naked short selling, stealth acquisitions or empty voting, should be outlawed or otherwise constrained by the directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12315/10]

Phil Hogan

Question:

207 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Finance if he supports a cap on the use of leverage by investment firms as proposed in the current draft of the EU AIFM directive; his views on whether such a measure could have an impact on the 3,000 jobs that are employed by the hedge fund industry here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12455/10]

Richard Bruton

Question:

225 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Ireland is the largest hedge fund administration centre in the world representing approximately 49% of global hedge fund assets and employing more than 3,000 persons; if he has received advice from his Department as to the effect the most recent Spanish Presidency compromise text of the alternative investment fund managers directive will have for this industry here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12690/10]

Richard Bruton

Question:

226 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether the Spanish Presidency amendments to the EU alternative investment fund managers directive would have the effect of closing off the European markets and European institutional investors from non-European investment firms; if he supports the Swedish Presidency amendments that deleted the three year moratorium that specified that EU access for non-EU AIF and AIFM would be granted on the basis of adherence to a set of standards to be established by the Committee of European Security Regulators and on the existence of co-operation agreements between the regulatory authorities in the EU and in the third country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12691/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 190, 207, 225 and 226 together.

The European Commission's proposal for a Directive to regulate the managers of alternative investment funds was due to be discussed at Ecofin on March 16th. However, the Spanish Presidency withdrew this item from the agenda because it believed that it had not received sufficient support at that stage for the proposed compromise text. Negotiations will continue and the Presidency aim to discuss this issue at Ecofin in the near future.

Many believe that, instead of focussing on the managers of these alternative investment funds, it would have been preferable to regulate the funds themselves directly. I understand that the European Commission considered such an approach but, because many funds are domiciled in jurisdictions outside the EU, they decided that the best approach would be to regulate the managers of all non-UCITS. I understand that the main reason for this is that the Commission would have encountered problems in trying to find a legally sound definition of a "hedge fund". They were unable to devise a definition that could not be exploited or create loop-holes, therefore it decided that the best approach was to regulate the level of the managers rather than the fund, the so-called "all encompassing approach". I appreciated the Commission's difficulties in that regard and supported their approach.

In view of the fact that the proposal would apply to all non-UCITS, it was proposed that a threshold be established to allow Member States apply proportionate rules to all fund managers, bearing in mind that the prevention of systemic risk was one of the main reasons behind the proposal. The proposed thresholds would allow supervisors to apply a lower regulatory standard to the managers of smaller funds, such as forestry funds for example. This is a practical approach to the issue of thresholds, while meeting the wider issue of systemic risk prevention.

The treatment of fund managers established outside the EU, so-called "third country managers", was one of the most difficult issues that arose with this dossier and a number of issues arose in relation to this. On the one hand, there was a view that third country managers should be allowed to operate within the EU without restriction. On the other hand, there were concerns that such an approach would not be consistent with the objectives of the Directive and would leave EU fund managers at a competitive disadvantage in relation to non-EU managers. In view of the range of complex issues associated with this, the Spanish Presidency proposed a draft compromise text whereby these third country managers, would have to comply with certain reporting and disclosure requirements before they could operate in a particular Member State, but that they could not avail of the "passport" to operate throughout the EU, without establishing a physical presence in a Member State. The proposal requires that appropriate co-operation agreements should be in place between the relevant Member State and third country. On balance, I believe this to be the best option available in the circumstances.

The original Commission proposal contained a provision to impose a limit on the amount of leverage a fund manager could employ the so-called "leverage cap". While such a leverage cap found little support among Member States, in recognition of the importance of monitoring the leverage employed by managers, provisions have been maintained to ensure that supervisors will have all the relevant information available to them to allow them to properly assess exposures. I believe that this is an appropriate approach.

It is clear that one of the key aims of the proposal was to strengthen the disclosure, reporting and transparency requirements. The proposal contains a large number of measures which impose additional reporting obligations on fund managers. Many industry commentators have criticised the scale of these additional requirements and regard them as onerous and burdensome. However, I believe that an appropriate balance has been found.

The other points which were raised regarding naked short-selling, stealth acquisitions and empty voting are not included within the scope of the Commission's initial proposal, although the proposal does contain provisions regarding the acquisition of non-listed companies.

Effective and efficient financial market regulation and supervision is central to the safeguarding of consumer interests, ensuring that financial markets and financial institutions operate in an open and transparent manner consistent with their stability and the stability of the financial system as a whole. It is also important that the legislative and policy framework for financial services supports the competitiveness of the sector and maintains in an appropriate way a level playing field among market participants. It is an important priority in formulating legislative proposals at EU level to strike an appropriate balance between these objectives. The funds industry is a valuable sector of the economy which provides direct employment to approximately 12,500 people with many more indirectly employed. The proposal, like all other measures aimed at improving the internal market, has the potential to impact on the financial services industry in Ireland, but equally it offers opportunities for developing new business practices aligned with the new regulatory regime as it evolves in the period ahead.

Tax Code.

Brian Hayes

Question:

191 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Finance if he has given consideration to allow school boards of management to claim back VAT when fundraising allows a school to purchase equipment such as whiteboards and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12321/10]

In relation to the VAT treatment of purchases of equipment by school boards of management, the position is that bodies supplying educational services and non-profit organisations are exempt from VAT under the EU VAT Directive, with which Irish VAT law must comply. This means they do not charge VAT on the services they provide and cannot recover VAT incurred on goods and services that they purchase. Essentially only VAT registered businesses which charge VAT are able to recover VAT.

John Deasy

Question:

192 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Finance when a decision will be made on an application (details supplied) for charity status. [12326/10]

Applications for charitable tax exempt status are dealt with by the Revenue Commissioners. I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that an application has been received from the body in question. Additional information in support of the application has been sought by Revenue. On receipt of this additional information further consideration will be given to the application.

Tax Yield.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

193 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the estimated yield from increasing the marginal tax rate for income earned in excess of €150,000 from 50% to 65%; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12347/10]

It is assumed that the change mentioned in the question is an effective increase in the top rate of income tax by 15 percentage points from 41% to 56% for incomes in excess of €150,000. It is also assumed that the threshold for the proposed new tax band mentioned by the Deputy would not alter the existing standard rate band structure applying to single and widowed persons, to lone parents and married couples. I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated full year yield to the Exchequer, estimated by reference to 2010 incomes, of the introduction of a new 56% rate in the manner described would be of the order of €558 million.

Given the current band structures, major issues would need to be resolved as to how in practice such a new rate could be integrated into the current system and how this would affect the relative position of different types of income earners.

This figure is an estimate from the Revenue tax-forecasting model using actual data for the year 2007, adjusted as necessary for income and employment trends for the year 2010. It is therefore provisional and likely to be revised.

Public Sector Pay.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

194 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if public servants and civil servants engaging in an overtime ban will continue to be paid overtime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12352/10]

My direct area of responsibility is the civil service. Civil servants do not receive overtime payments for periods that are not worked because of a ban on overtime.

Questions relating to other areas of the public service should, more appropriately, be addressed to the relevant Minister.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

195 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance his plans to reduce the cost to the taxpayer of overtime paid to public and civil servants by introducing clock-in or other verification mechanisms to ensure that overpayments and over claims are not allowed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12353/10]

The cost of overtime, which is primarily a matter for each Minister or Head of Office to be managed in the first instance within their pay allocation.

Under the terms of Administrative Budget Agreements sanction is delegated to Departments and Offices to pay overtime in accordance with the general directions contained in Department of Finance Circulars 27/99 and 30/0 provided that the expenditure involved can be accommodated within the Administrative Budget for the year in question. Departments/Offices are required to reduce the incidents of overtime and allowances through the reorganisation of work practices.

As the Deputy will be aware it is the responsibility of every Department/Office to authorise, monitor and verify overtime. I am informed by Personnel Officers that any such extra attendance is verified in accordance with the officer's attendance record. Questions about the cost of overtime in the Public Service should be addressed to the responsible Minister.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

196 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the extent that structural overtime exists in the public service and Civil Service whereby employees are paid regular overtime regardless of whether the overtime is actually worked; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12354/10]

Government Departments and Offices do not have any practices of structural overtime. Questions of overtime issues in the Public Service should be addressed to the relevant Minister.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

197 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance his plans to reduce the cost to the taxpayer of allowances paid to public and civil servants by requiring the production or receipts for expenditure incurred with respect to these allowances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12355/10]

The issue of expense allowances in the civil and public service is kept under review by my Department to ensure that the optimum cost efficiency and cost effectiveness is achieved.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

198 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if he has a strategy to reduce the cost to the Exchequer of sick leave taken by civil and public servants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12356/10]

The Civil Service has developed a complex set of rules and procedures in relation to sick leave and these arrangements form a significant part of the terms and conditions of employment of all civil servants. The policy was updated in 2007. Since then, a further up date and revision of the policy has been developed and presented to the Staff Unions. This policy takes on board the concerns raised by the Comptroller and Auditor General 2009 Special Report on Sickness Absence in the Civil Service, and provides a general framework of guidelines on more efficient management of sick leave. The policy is also aimed at reducing absence from work which should result in reduction in cost of sick leave.

As the Deputy will be aware, the day to day management of sickness absence rests with each Government Department or Office. My Department is working with Civil Service Departments and Offices to ensure development of appropriate systems of absence management, in line with best practice, and to ensure that Departments/Offices give a high priority to their proper implementation. Each Department has IT systems to record attendance and absences in the Civil Service namely a Time and Attendance system and a Human Resource Management System (HRMS). These systems form one part of absence management/controls and are aimed at complementing the non-IT systems, the manual business processes in place for checking, cross referencing and validating absences, thus providing an overall robust system for absence management in organisations. The management of Sick Leave in the Public Service is a matter for the relevant Minister.

Pension Provisions.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

199 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance his policy in respect of the requirement of persons on defined contribution pension schemes to purchase an annuity; and his views on extending the period permitted for the purchase of an approved retirement funds for new retirees to December 2010 in view of the poor value of annuities in the current economic climate. [12371/10]

The Deputy may be aware that in December 2008 I introduced an option for members of Defined Contribution occupational pension schemes to defer the purchase of a retirement annuity with their pension funds for a 2 year period.

Under the arrangements in place up to that time, PAYE taxpayers who were members of such schemes were obliged to purchase an annuity with their main pension fund immediately on retirement after taking their tax-free lump sum. I introduced the deferral period (which applies until the end of this year) because of the difficulties facing members of Defined Contribution schemes whose pension funds had been badly affected by significant falls in equity markets and in asset values at that time. As outlined in the recently published National Pensions Framework, the Government has decided to extend to members of Defined Contribution occupational pension schemes from next year, the option to avail of an Approved Retirement Fund (ARF) at retirement, as an alternative to annuity purchase.

Tax Code.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

200 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance the reason benefit-in-kind is being charged on staff of local authorities, who drive company cars as part of their daily work, but who cannot drive them outside of work hours other than to and from work; his views on charging persons at the same rate as workers who drive vans under the same conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12372/10]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that a benefit-in-kind charge arises on an employee where a car owned by the employer is available for private use. This includes travel between the employee's home and place of work

Section 121 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 provides for a benefit-in-kind charge in respect of the private use of a car provided to an employee by an employer based on 30% of the Original Market Value (OMV) of the vehicle. This charge is reduced on a sliding scale where the business mileage of the individual in the year of assessment is in excess of 24,000 kilometres (for example, where the business mileage is in excess of 48,000 kilometres per year the charge is based on 6% of the Original Market Value of the car). Where an individual is required to use a car solely for the purposes of the performance of their official duties and that car is returned to the employer's premises at the end of the working day, no charge to benefit-in-kind will arise.

Section 121A of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 provides for a benefit-in-kind charge in respect of the private use of a van based on 5% of the Original Market Value. This charge will not apply where the van is necessary for the employee's work, the employee is required by the employer to take the van home when not being used for work, private use of the van, other than travel to and from work, is prohibited and there is in fact no other private use, and the employee spends at least 80% of his or her working time away from the premises where the employee is attached.

The difference in treatment between cars and vans is due to the inherent design and use differences between the two types of vehicles. A van "is designed or constructed solely or mainly for the carriage of goods or other burden". In both cases, the charge can be reduced by any amount which an employee is required to make good and actually pays to the employer towards running costs.

Banking Sector Regulation.

Joe McHugh

Question:

201 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Finance his views on forced bank lending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12384/10]

I am assuming that in referring to "forced bank lending" the Deputy means forcing the banks to lend to customers to whom they would not otherwise lend. I would not consider this helpful and it will not aid the economic recovery of the banks if they incur high losses on risky loans they are forced into. However, the Deputy may be aware that under the NAMA Act I will shortly be issuing guidelines to ensure that SMEs, sole traders and farm enterprises will have recourse to an independent, external review of decisions of credit refusal by the NAMA participating banks. My aim is to have a simple, effective review process, run by people with experience and credibility. The banks must comply with the recommendations of the review process, or explain why they will not do so.

In addition to dealing with individual cases, the credit review system will examine the credit policies and practices of the banks in respect of SMEs. This will help me to decide what further action might be necessary to secure the flow of credit. I intend to publish the analysis from the review process so that the performance of the banks participating in NAMA will be clear to all. Work has been ongoing since December on the logistical aspects of the review system and it is envisaged that reviews will commence shortly.

State Property.

Catherine Byrne

Question:

202 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding a building (details supplied) in Dublin 20; when it will be legally transferred to the Health Service Executive; if it can be used for the benefit of the local community as a community or enterprise centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12404/10]

Arrangements to transfer the property to the Health Service Executive are nearing completion. As the Commissioners of Public Works have given an undertaking to transfer the property to the HSE, it would not be appropriate to agree to any other uses.

Tax Collection.

John Deasy

Question:

203 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Finance when an application for a tax refund will be processed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford. [12411/10]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, regrettably, due to industrial action by some staff it is not possible to ascertain the specific details of this case in the time available.

Tax Code.

Sean Fleming

Question:

204 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Finance the number of properties on a town basis that qualified under the town renewal and urban renewal property tax incentives schemes for each of the towns in County Laois; the cost to the Exchequer in relation to tax relief in each of these towns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12432/10]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the information provided in tax returns on the annual amounts of claims for the Town and Urban Renewal Schemes is not sufficiently detailed to provide a basis for deriving an estimate of cost to the Exchequer on a town by town basis. I am not therefore in a position to provide the information requested by the Deputy.

Richard Bruton

Question:

205 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance his views on exempting e-books from VAT; and the discussion he has had with his EU colleagues on the taxation of this sector. [12439/10]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the supply of e-books is subject to VAT at the standard rate of 21% when sold by Irish based suppliers to consumers in Ireland or in any other EU Member State. The Irish rate applies also to sales of e-books into Ireland from suppliers outside the EU. However, when an Irish consumer purchases e-books from a supplier in another Member State the VAT rate is the applicable rate in the supplier's Member State.

EU Directive 2008/8/EC contains a provision that deals with the VAT treatment of the supply of electronic services supplied to consumers. It provides that, with effect from 1 January 2015, the place of taxation of these services will change to where the consumer resides. This means that VAT on electronic services including e-books will be chargeable in the consumer's Member State. All business-to-business sales of e-books are already taxed in the business customer's Member State.

Under EU VAT law, Member States may retain the zero rates on goods and services which were in place on 1 January 1991, but cannot extend the zero rate to new goods and services. Consequently, it is not possible to exempt e-books from VAT.

Regarding discussions at EU level, the Deputy may be referring to the agreement of May 2009 regarding changes made to Annex III of the VAT Directive which lists certain goods and services to which Member States may optionally apply the reduced VAT rate, which in Ireland is 13.5%. This includes books in all physical forms but does not include books delivered electronically.

Parliamentary Questions.

John O'Mahony

Question:

206 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Finance his plans to address the non-answering of parliamentary questions submitted to several Departments; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that staff in these Departments will not take calls on the Houses of the Oireachtas lines provided to help access information. [12444/10]

As I said in my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 10848/10 of 3 March 2010, the current work to rule and other actions, which are impacting on processing Parliamentary Questions and providing information to public representatives are part of a 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. Any industrial action, whatever form it takes, is regrettable, in particular if it has any impact on service delivery to the public. Public Service management are doing what they can to minimise any such impact. As the Deputy will know discussion are currently taking place between the Government and the Public Service Unions with a view to achieving the necessary transformation to the public service into the future.

Question No. 207 answered with Question No. 190.

Information and Telecommunications Technology.

Simon Coveney

Question:

208 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Finance his procurement policy regarding cloud computing services; the effect the recent communication from the national public procurement operations unit to the wider public service on the issue of cloud computing had on public procurement policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12465/10]

The procurement policy of my Department regarding cloud computing is the same as that regarding any other area, namely that it facilitates open competition, best value for money and best technological fit to requirements while complying with all relevant national and EU legislation. I am aware that the National Public Procurement Operations Unit (NPPOU) recently issued a message to members of the eProcurement Network (public sector buyers on eTenders) stating that where the use of cloud computer systems are being considered, that it is essential to obtain prior legal advice due to the potential risk of liability to the State.

The NPPOU considers this to be prudent advice to any prospective buyer of any IT solution. However, I am aware that the advice may have been interpreted by some as instructing public bodies not to procure cloud computing solutions. That is not the case. My Department is actively examining cloud computing technologies to determine the most appropriate approaches for the public service, taking into consideration the usual requirements with respect to costs, security and data protection.

Property Sector.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

209 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if in relation to SI 88 of 2010, the data and analysis referred to in section 5.2 is publicly available; if not, if it will be made publicly available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12480/10]

In determining the correlation of land prices with various factors as outlined in Section 5.1(b) of Statutory Instrument in question; projections were constructed for several key determinants of activity in the property market. These include:

Gross Domestic Product;

CPI inflation;

Population;

Interest rates and;

Employment numbers.

I am informed by NAMA that data and analysis published by the institutions concerned was considered by it in the context of Section 5.2 of the SI No. 88 of 2010. Additional information considered appropriate by NAMA was made available to NAMA in this context on a confidential basis and it is not proposed that this be published.

Departmental Staff.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

210 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Finance the number of permanent staff that are employed his Department at assistant principal level or above; the number of staff at that level that have a professional accountancy qualification such as ACA-FCA, ACCA-FCCA, ACMA-FCMA or CPA and the number of past ten Secretaries-Secretaries-General that have had one or more of these qualifications. [12495/10]

There are 203.73 whole-time equivalent permanent staff employed in my Department at the level of Assistant Principal or above. Of these, 7 officers have professional accountancy qualifications. In addition, 3 staff at these levels have degrees in Accounting or accounting related disciplines. As regards Secretaries/Secretaries General, I understand the Deputy, following consultation, to be asking only in relation to the current and 3 most recent Secretaries General. One of these officers has a professional accountancy qualification.

Tourism Promotion.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

211 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance the efforts that the Office of Public Works has made to work in co-operation with Donegal County Council as well as regional and national tourism bodies on plans to enhance the tourism potential of Grianán of Aileach Hill Fort in County Donegal; and his plans in this regard. [12502/10]

The Office of Public Works has commissioned an information leaflet for Grianán of Aileach, which will be available for distribution locally later this year. New information panels on site are being erected. Discussions are taking place with Donegal County Council about upgrading both the carpark and directional signage that fall under the ambit of the County Council. Further discussions will take place with the County Council and tourist bodies as to how this site of major significance could be promoted and enhanced.

Courts Service.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

212 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance the plans that the Office of Public Works has to invest in the refurbishment of Carndonagh courthouse, County Donegal; and when the OPW anticipate that the courthouse will be open for business again. [12503/10]

The Courts Service is responsible for the provision and maintenance of Courthouses. The Office of Public Works acts as agent for the Courts Service. Plans were prepared for the refurbishment of Carndonagh Courthouse last year. However, in light of the economic downturn, it was not possible to proceed with this project. In order to prepare the plans, it was necessary to carry out some investigative works at the Courthouse and the building had to be closed to facilitate these works. I understand that the Courts Service is considering the reopening of the Courthouse at present.

Flood Relief.

Pat Breen

Question:

213 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Finance his plans to introduce a flood relief scheme to an area (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12523/10]

Under a scheme introduced in 2009, the Office of Public Works wrote to all Local Authorities seeking prioritised applications for funding for localised minor flood mitigation works that the Authorities propose to undertake. A number of applications have been submitted by Clare County Council, including two in respect of mitigation works in Ennis. The two applications submitted do not relate directly to the specific locations referred to by the Deputy.

It would be open to Clare County Council to submit applications in relation to these locations that meet the economic and environmental eligibility criteria of this scheme. Any applications will be considered in conjunction with applications received from other Local Authorities, having regard to the overall funding available for such works.

National Asset Management Agency.

Michael McGrath

Question:

214 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which the professional fees associated with the transfer of loans to the National Asset Management Agency will be charged to the relevant financial institutions. [12528/10]

The NAMA (Determination of Long-term Economic Value of Property and Bank Assets) Regulations 2010 provide that a charge of 0.25% be incorporated into the discount rate used in the valuation of loan assets transferring to NAMA. This charge is expected to cover all fees incurred during the valuation process.

Tobacco Prices.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

215 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Finance his views on the European Court of Justice ruling on minimum pricing of tobacco products; the action he will take to ensure that cut price cigarettes are not made available here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12545/10]

James Reilly

Question:

230 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Finance his plans to ensure that the price of tobacco products does not fall as a result of the recent EU judgment on minimum pricing of tobacco products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12730/10]

Joan Burton

Question:

233 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance his views on the recent judgement of the European Court of Justice in relation to the minimum pricing of tobacco products; if he remains committed to a high tobacco price policy as a deterrent to new smokers; if he intends to bring forward legislation to prohibit the below cost selling of tobacco products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12744/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 215, 230 and 233 together.

The European Court of Justice issued a Judgement on 4 March 2010 against Ireland, France, and Austria to the effect that the setting in Health legislation of the minimum price for which cigarettes can be sold is not in keeping with EU Law. The Judgement has only been issued recently and will require to be carefully examined by the relevant Departments, including the Department of Health and Children, as to the appropriate steps that should be taken in the light of the Judgement. It should however be recognised in that context that Ireland already has the highest excise rates on cigarettes in the European Community, by a significant amount.

Public Service Contracts.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

216 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the value of Irish public contracts advertised in the Official Journal of the EU in 2008 and 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12595/10]

The total value of contracts advertised by Irish contracting authorities in the Official Journal of the European Union in 2008 is approximately €4.5 billion. The corresponding figure for 2009 is not yet available.

Banking Sector Regulation.

Joan Burton

Question:

217 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the statutory powers he plans to exercise to achieve the delegation of powers and banking functions from his Department to the National Treasury Management Agency; the statutory powers that he plans to delegate to the NTMA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12596/10]

The passage of the NAMA legislation provided me with an opportunity to further consider the division of work between my Department and the NTMA as a result of the demands of the banking crisis. On 19 March the National Treasury Management Agency Act 1990 (Delegation of Banking Functions) Order 2010 which sets out certain banking functions to be delegated to the NTMA was laid before each House of the Oireachtas.

The main functions to be delegated to the NTMA are the negotiations with the covered institutions on their capital needs and the management of the Minister for Finance's shareholding or other interests in the credit institutions. A related direction to the NTMA makes it clear that they are to play a lead role in these matters, working in close consultation with my Department and with the Central Bank and Financial Regulator.

As Minister for Finance I will continue to be fully responsible and accountable to the Oireachtas and my Department will necessarily remain closely involved with banking and financial services issues.

Tax Code.

Joan Burton

Question:

218 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance his views on the US system of using citizenship to determine whether a person’s worldwide income is subject to taxation; his views on the application of such a system here; the discussions he has had at EU level about the introduction of such a system across the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12599/10]

Since 1913, the United States (US) has had a system of citizenship-based taxation, under which a US citizen is liable to pay US Income Tax on their worldwide income, regardless of where they are resident. This is also combined with a residence-based system under which "resident aliens" (that is, non-US citizens who are resident in the US) are liable to US tax on their worldwide income.

A number of issues would arise if citizenship-based taxation was introduced in Ireland. Initially, there are large numbers of Irish citizens living abroad who have no Irish-sourced income or gains. These include all Irish people who have emigrated and made their lives abroad permanently for a variety of reasons, but chose to maintain their links with Ireland and Irish-citizenship. These people have no liability to Irish tax as they are non-resident within the existing residence rules and, even if domiciled in Ireland, have no income which is subject to Irish tax. Making these people subject to Irish taxation on the basis of citizenship would be an inefficient and ineffective use of the resources available to the Revenue Commissioners. The position of persons living in Northern Ireland would also have to be considered.

In addition, modifications would have to be made to Ireland's Double Taxation Agreements (other than the DTA with the US) to provide that one contracting State reserves the right to tax its citizens wherever they are resident. However, this would lead to difficulties in negotiating new DTAs or even the cancellation of existing DTAs, which would damage our international competitiveness. The change would also be against the OECD norm, whereby residents are taxable on worldwide income and non-residents are taxable on income arising in the State.

The Deputy will be aware that the Domicile Levy, which was announced in the Budget, is charged on an individual who is Irish-domiciled and an Irish citizen whose world-wide income exceeds €1m, their Irish-located property is greater than €5m, and their liability to Irish Income Tax was less than €200,000. The levy has been introduced to ensure that every wealthy Irish-domiciled person will make a contribution to the State. Finally, I am not aware of any discussions on the introduction of a citizenship-based taxation across the EU.

Tax Collection.

Sean Fleming

Question:

219 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Finance the moneys expended and to whom they were paid; the moneys received during the same period under various heading in respect of a property (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12619/10]

The information requested is not held by the Commissioners in a readily accessible format. The Commissioners are, however, collating the information and will make it available to the Deputy at the earliest opportunity.

Tax Code.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

220 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the vouched fuel allowance scheme which he promised to introduce in his budget 2010 speech to offset the impact of the carbon tax on low income groups. [12625/10]

A number of Government Departments, including my Department, are exploring options for how best to offset the impact of the carbon tax on low-income households. A vouched allowance for solid fuels is one such option being explored as are other options for improving the energy efficiency of low-income households which will offset increases in fuel prices arising from carbon taxation.

Redundancy Payments.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

221 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Finance when former workers of a company (details supplied) in County Limerick that have yet to be paid the Labour Court recommendation for an additional three weeks redundancy pay despite the approval of the Rights Commissioner will be paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12664/10]

Any questions in relation to these matters should, in the first instance, be directed towards the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment who has policy responsibility for these areas.

Financial Services Regulation.

Willie Penrose

Question:

222 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Finance the position whereby a person who secured a loan, and who had a particular health difficulty in the past, which is now resolved, cannot obtain mortgage protection insurance; and if insurance will be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12676/10]

As the Deputy is aware, in my role as the Minister for Finance I have responsibility for the development of the legal framework governing financial regulation. However the day-to-day responsibility for the supervision of financial institutions is a matter for the Financial Regulator which is statutorily independent in the exercise of its regulatory functions.

In relation to the Deputy's specific question, the Financial Regulator has informed me that it cannot compel insurers to quote for business for mortgage protection insurance. The decision to provide any specific form of insurance cover and the price at which it is offered is a commercial matter based on the assessment an insurer will make of the risks involved. If a consumer feels that he or she has been unfairly treated by an insurance company, he or she can make a complaint to the insurance company using the insurance company's formal complaints system. If the consumer is dissatisfied with the outcome of his or her complaint he or she can then refer the matter for further investigation to the Financial Services Ombudsman.

Tax Code.

Joan Burton

Question:

223 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the rationale for the introduction of section 139 of the Finance Bill 2010; the reason the abolition of secondary accountability and the 12 year CAT charge is being applied retrospectively; if he was lobbied in respect of this retrospective application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12686/10]

The rationale for the introduction of section 139 of the Finance Bill 2010 (as initiated) is to streamline and modernise the administration and collection of Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT). The changes will lower compliance costs for taxpayers and simplify and streamline administration for both agents and Revenue. The proposals originated out of an internal review of the existing procedures by the Revenue Commissioners and a subsequent public consultation process on CAT. Many of the existing processes around the administration of the tax are out of line with self-assessment principles and they involve excessive certification and clearance procedures having regard to the risks involved, and the alternatives available to Revenue for managing those risks.

The measures in the Bill, which are designed to be Exchequer neutral, will allow Revenue to implement changes which will:

eliminate up to 75% of current CAT documentation;

free up Revenue staff resources for more productive audit and compliance work;

deliver faster, simpler and more straightforward processes for taxpayers and their agents; and

allow the development of CAT audit and compliance programmes that are integrated into Revenue's overall risk evaluation and analysis programme.

The abolition of secondary accountability and the 12 year CAT charge on property are being applied with effect from the date of the passing of the Finance Bill and these changes will apply to inheritances and gifts, regardless of when they were taken. Therefore, the change is being made retrospectively. However, it should be noted that once the new procedures are in place, all CAT returns, regardless of the date of the gift or inheritance, will be integrated into Revenue's risk-driven audit and compliance programmes. Therefore, there is no need to maintain separate systems for gifts or inheritances taken before the introduction of the new procedures.

The Deputy can be assured that I was not lobbied on any aspect of the CAT modernisation package, including the abolition of secondary accountability and the 12 year CAT charge.

National Asset Management Agency.

Joan Burton

Question:

224 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the rationale for the recently reported increases in remuneration for the National Asset Management Agency Board members; the new remuneration arrangements; and the annual cost of remunerating the board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12687/10]

In my reply to a Parliamentary Question of 10 March 2010 concerning remuneration of members of the National Assets Management Agency (NAMA), I indicated that, under section 21 (1) and 25 (9) of the NAMA Act 2009, I had approved the following fee arrangements. Chairperson — all inclusive fee of €170,000 per annum on the understanding that the incumbent is available without restriction. Chairperson of Credit Committee — all inclusive fee of €150,000 per annum on the understanding that the incumbent works no less than 3 to 4 days a week. Ordinary Board Members (5 remaining board members) — fee of €50,000 per annum. Chair of other Committees — fee of €10,000 per annum in addition to Ordinary Board Member fee subject to a maximum of one per member.

The total cost in 2010 is therefore likely to be €470,000 and an additional amount dependent upon how many sub-committees are established by the Board of NAMA. However, given that board members can receive a maximum of one fee for Chairing another Committee and given the fact that neither the Chair nor the Chair of the credit Committee can receive this extra fee as their main fee is all-inclusive the maximum extra cost of payments to Chairs of other Committees is €50,000.

Originally, the fees for the Chairperson and Ordinary Board Members had been set at €100,000 and €38,000 respectively when the Board was appointed on 22 December 2009. Following discussions with the Chairperson and the Chief Executive of the National Treasury Management Agency last month and in light of the workload of the Board's operations over the initial period of its operation I revised these fees from a current date.

I further indicated that in setting the fees account was taken of the critical importance of the work to be undertaken by the Board and the fact that its workload will be excessive by normal standards in the first year of operation. I also indicated that I intended to review the fees after a year.

Questions Nos. 225 and 226 answered with Question No. 190.

National Debt.

Michael McGrath

Question:

227 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the amount of interest paid in 2009 to service the national debt; the amount expected to be paid, for each year, between 2010 and 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12700/10]

As previously outlined in reply to PQ10987/10 on 4 March 2010, expenditure on national debt interest amounted to €2½ billion in 2009. Based on the projections for the Exchequer Borrowing Requirement for the years to 2014 set out in Budget 2010, the estimated cost of interest on the national debt is €4½ billion in 2010, €5½ billion in 2011, €6½ billion in 2012, €7½ billion in 2013 and €7½ billion in 2014. The National Treasury Management Agency has advised that, as is usual, these estimates were prepared on the basis of the prevailing market conditions for Irish Government bonds.

Flood Relief.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

228 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the need for flood relief works in respect of a town (details supplied) in County Cork. [12706/10]

Under a scheme introduced in 2009, the Office of Public Works wrote to all Local Authorities seeking prioritised applications for funding for localised minor flood mitigation works that the Authorities propose to undertake. Cork County Council has submitted a number of applications to date, including two applications for flood relief works at Clonakilty. These applications are currently being assessed in conjunction with applications received from other Local Authorities. A decision will be made shortly in relation to the applications.

Departmental Bodies.

Joan Burton

Question:

229 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance if he will establish a body, similar to the Congressional Budget Office in the United States, tasked with the preparation of comprehensive, independent and non-partisan budget projections and costings of budget measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12708/10]

I have no plans to establish a body similar to the US Congressional Budget Office.

The Department of Finance provides comprehensive, independent and non-partisan budget projections and costings of Government budget measures. The Department of Finance also offers the facility to political parties of costing proposals in the context of general elections and in the formulation of programmes for Government.

I am satisfied with the performance of my Department, especially in light of the extraordinary demands placed on it in the period since I came to office.

Question No. 230 answered with Question No. 215.

International Agreements.

James Reilly

Question:

231 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control; if officials from his Department are attending or have attended the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body on a Protocol on Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products fourth session in Geneva, Switzerland, between 14 and 21 March 2010; his views on this protocol; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12731/10]

I can assure the Deputy that I am aware of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) that, following its adoption in May 2003 by the 56th World Health Assembly, was signed by Ireland on 10 September 2003 and ratified on 7 November 2005.

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the current discussions that are taking place at a meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) in Geneva are for the purposes of drafting and negotiating a protocol on the illicit trade in tobacco products in order to build on and complement the provisions of Article 15 of the FCTC.

As this protocol concerns the illicit trade in tobacco products, Ireland has been represented at all four INB meetings held to date, including the latest, by officials from the Revenue Commissioners who are responsible for tackling the smuggling of tobacco products rather than by officials from my Department or the Department of Health and Children who would normally represent Ireland at meetings organised by the World Health Organisation.

As regards the protocol, while I understand that progress has been slow primarily because of the difficulty in drafting a protocol that is acceptable to all 168 countries that are parties to the FCTC, I can assure the Deputy that Ireland, along with the other Member States of the European Union, is pushing for the adoption of a strong and balanced protocol that will contain effective and meaningful measures to combat the illicit trade in tobacco products on a world wide basis.

Departmental Staff.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

232 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if persons will be taken on as temporary clerical officers for the Civil Service in summer 2010 as has been done in previous years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12740/10]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

238 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Finance if the Civil Service will be recruiting students this summer to fill temporary clerical office positions in order to cover for permanent staff on summer leave; or if an embargo applies to these temporary positions. [13033/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 232 and 238 together.

This matter is being considered at present in my Department. As in previous years, it is likely that a limited number of temporary clerical officers will be taken on in the civil service this Summer, but final decisions will depend on the business case made by each Department/Office.

Question No. 233 answered with Question No. 215.

Tax Collection.

Sean Sherlock

Question:

234 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance if he will take steps to allow businesses more favourable terms in relation to their VAT repayments and in relation to tax arrears; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12751/10]

Sean Sherlock

Question:

235 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that many businesses have been penalised in respect of their VAT and tax repayments even though they have met their full obligations for a given year but have underpaid their preliminary amount; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12752/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 234 and 235 together.

It is assumed that the Deputy is referring to the challenge for businesses in meeting their tax obligations in a timely fashion and the requirement on individuals and companies to ensure that at least the minimum amounts of preliminary tax, whether in regard to corporation tax or income tax, are paid.

This is a matter in the first instance for the Revenue Commissioners who are charged with responsibility for the timely collection and recovery of taxes and duties due to the Exchequer. I know that Revenue has a strong focus on making sure that everyone complies with their tax and duty responsibilities by paying the right amount and on time. Revenue expects businesses to continue, notwithstanding the more difficult economic circumstances in which they are operating at present, to organise their financial affairs in such a fashion as to ensure that tax debts are paid as they fall due. I fully support what Revenue are doing in that regard.

Revenue is very conscious of and appreciates that the difficult economic and financial climate that prevails poses challenges for business in being timely compliant. Revenue have responded to the difficult environment by actively encouraging businesses experiencing particular payment difficulties to work proactively with them when such difficulties start to arise in order find an agreed way through those difficulties and quickly restore voluntary timely compliance. Revenue has developed an administrative framework to manage such cases, and has published material for businesses experiencing tax payment difficulties on its website www.revenue.ie.

Where businesses or individuals fail to meet their tax payment obligations on time, including the need to pay the necessary amount of preliminary tax for income tax or corporation tax, then those individuals or businesses are liable to interest. Interest on late payment of tax operates not just as a compensation for the Exchequer for the late payment of monies due to it but also levels the playing field between those who meet their tax obligations on time and those who pay late. I am satisfied that Revenue's actions in regard to the collection of interest are reasonable. Those businesses and individuals who comply on a voluntary and timely basis must be confident that their efforts are recognised through the imposition and collection of interest from those who pay late.

Ministerial Travel.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

236 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost in relation to foreign travel, accommodation and related ministerial and official costs associated with St. Patrick’s day 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12818/10]

I did not travel abroad in an official capacity for Saint Patrick's Day 2010.

Minister of State Martin Mansergh visited the Netherlands and Belgium from Monday 15th March and returned Thursday morning 18th March. He was accompanied by his Private Secretary for the duration of the trip and by the Office of Public Works' Chief Engineer for his visit to the Netherlands. All costs have not been received as yet as some were dealt with directly by the Department of Foreign Affairs and will be invoiced in due course. When all costs have been itemised, a reply will issue to the deputy. The itinerary for Minister Mansergh's trip is set out as follows.

Visit to the Netherlands by Dr. Martin Mansergh TD Minister of State at the Departments of Finance and Arts Sport and Tourism 15th March 2010 – 17th March 2010

Monday 15th

09.45

Depart Dublin Airport on Aer Lingus flight EI 604

12.20

Arrive Amsterdam Schiphol Greeted by Ambassador Whelan and Embassy staff

13.00

Depart Schiphol for The Hague

14.00

Arrive The Hague

15.45

Meeting with Secretary General and Senior Officials, Ministry of Transport, Public Works and Water Management1. Plesmanweg 1-6, 2597 JG The Hague

17.00

Depart for Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand Hotel. Oudezijds Voorburgwal 197, 1012EX Amsterdam

18.00

Arrive Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand Hotel. Check in

18.35

Depart Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand Hotel for Rijksmuseum

18.55

Arrive Rijksmuseum. Tourism Ireland Press Reception2, Rijksmuseum, Stadhouderskade 42, 1071 ZD Amsterdam

20.15

Depart Rijksmuseum for Restaurant d’Vijff Vlieghen

20.30

Arrive Restaurant. Dinner with Committee Members, Irish Club of the Netherlands. Restaurant d’Vijff Vlieghen, Spuisstraat 294-302, 1012VX Amsterdam

22.00

Dinner concludes. Return to Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand Hotel. Oudezijds Voorburgwal 197, 1012EX Amsterdam

Tuesday 16th

10.35

Depart Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand Hotel for Amstel Hotel

11.00 – 14.30

Bord Bia / Chef’s Irish Beef Club (CIBC) Event: A Celebration of Irish Food and Drink, Amstel Hotel, Professor Tulpplein 1, 1018 GX Amsterdam.

Running order of event:

11:00

Arrival guests, reception with coffee, tea and biscuits

11.15

Welcome by Declan Fennell, Bord Bia, and brief introduction on the development of the sale of Irish products in the Netherlands, the importance of Irish beef, cooperation CIBC, recipe magazine Mooi & Mals. Followed by remarks by Minister Mansergh

11.30

Tasting Irish drinks led by Mr. Rohan Gillespie

12.45

Lunch in Restaurant ‘La Rive’ prepared by Roger Rassin, new CIBC member. After the 2nd course Roger Rassin will be inaugurated

14.30

Depart Amstel Hotel for Dutch Association of Regional Water Authorities

15.30

Meeting with Director of Dutch Association of Regional Water Authorities3 Koningskade 40, 2596 AA The Hague

16.30

Depart Dutch Association of Regional Water Authorities for Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand Hotel

17.45

Arrive Hotel

18.30 –19.00

Interview with journalist from De Volkskrant, and 2 other journalists, Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand Hotel.

19.15

Ireland Netherlands Business Association Spring Dinner4 (Minister Mansergh is Guest of Honour and Speaker) Venue: Council Chamber, Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand Hotel, Oudezijds Voorburgwal 197, 1012EX Amsterdam

22.30

Dinner concludes

Wednesday 17th

07.30

Depart Sofitel Amsterdam The Grand Hotel for Amsterdam Centraal Station

07.45

Arrive Amsterdam Centraal

08.11

“Sneltrein” to Den Haag Centraal Station (Den Haag CS) departs from platform 13a

09.02

Arrive Den Haag Centraal Station Greeted by Embassy Transfer to House of Representatives, The Hague

09.15

Meeting with Chairperson of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Public Works and Water Management Bezuidenhoutseweg 73, 2594 AC The Hague

10.00

Meeting concludes Possible visit to Mauritshuis Art Gallery

11.35

Depart Den Haag Hollands Spoor Station for Brussel Centraal Station Note: train journey is 2h 03m Fare: €30.00 per person 2nd class €46.40 per person 1st class (includes power plug for laptop) (Fares per NS Rail service web-page)

13.38

Arrive Brussel Centraal Greeted by Ambassador Nason or Niall Brady, Embassy, Brussels Transfer to Sofitel, 3 Place Jourdan, 1040 Brussels (freshen up)

14.50

Transfer to Jacques Delors Building 99 Rue Belliard, 1040 Brussels — Remarks at the Research to Reality workshop — Opportunity to view “Diversity in Unity” exhibition by Irish artists — Tour state agency presentations, meet state agency representatives

16.30

Transfer to Charlemagne Building 170 Rue de la Loi, 1049 Brussels Greeted by Secretary General of the European Economic and Social Committee, Mr Martin Westlake & Ms Jillian Van Tournhout Freshen up opportunity (VIP room near entrance to building) Then escorted to plenary chamber

17:00

Plenary session begins — welcoming remarks by President Sepi — address by Minister Mansergh (10 minutes) — responses from representatives of the EESC’s three groups (these may be in the form of statements, questions etc.) — Minister’s closing remarks

17.45

Depart Charlemagne

17:50

Minister arrives at Jacques Delors Building 99 Rue Belliard, 1040 Brussels

18:00

Diplomatic Reception begins (Minister participates in receiving line) Irish music and dance programme

19:00

Ireland in Europe Reception begins

19:30

Piper (Jean-Pierre Faure) pipes Dais party down stairs — Welcoming remarks by Mr. Mario Sepi, President of EESC (2mins) — Ambassador Nason introduces Minister Mansergh — Minister addresses Reception (5-7 minutes)

19:45

Irish music and dance programme

21:30

Depart Jacques Delors Building Dinner (tbc) Staying at Sofitel, 3 Place Jourdan, 1040 Brussels

Thursday 18th

10.15

Depart Brussels, Aer Lingus flight

1Following the collapse of the Dutch government, Minister Camiel Eurlings has assumed responsibility for all portfolios in the Ministry.

2From 4 September to 5 December 2010 the National Gallery in Dublin will host an exhibition of works by Gabriel Metsu, a 17th Century Dutch painter. The Metsu exhibition will then go to the Rijksmuseum from 21 December to 21 March 2011. This exhibition presents an opportunity to present Dublin and Ireland as a Cultural Destination of significance. The press reception on March 15th aims (1) to present Dublin as a cultural “City Break” destination with a wealth of cultural things to see and do, and (2) to announce a group trip to Dublin in September for Dutch press, which will offer a sneak preview of the exhibition. The target audience (of 40 people) at the press reception will be National Press (Lifestyle, Newspapers, Travel trade and specialist media), and Irish business and agency contacts in the Netherlands.

3The Regional Water Authorities are concerned, inter alia, with water control/management, and in the development and implementation of international policy (EU). From their web page: “To exchange knowledge and experiences, Regional Water Authorities cooperate with foreign authorities and institutions. To this end, they (via the Association of Regional Water Authorities) are involved in international organisations working in the field of water management, like EUREAU and EUWMA. There is foreign interest in the manner in which the Netherlands organises its water management and in which Regional Water Authorities play a keyrole. The Dutch Association of Regional Water Authorities is a member of the Netherlands Water Partnership, the platform of the Dutch water sector. Dutch expertise can play a role in solving problems elsewhere. But foreign experiences can also contribute to Dutch water management. Whether it concerns joint solutions to shared (cross-border) problems, exchange of expertise, or application of expertise abroad, it is impossible to imagine life without international cooperation in the world of water. Nearly all Regional Water Authorities have developed international activities. In total, over 35 countries are involved.”

4The Ireland Netherlands Business Association (INBA) is a business networking association which works closely with Irish State agencies and the broader Dutch and Irish business communities in the Netherlands. Its membership ranges from international public companies to small and medium sized companies and semi-state organisations. Through periodic networking events, INBA provides a forum for networking and communication. These networking events include twice-yearly dinners, the invitation lists for which are drawn from across the Netherlands-Ireland business communities. Recent speakers at INBA dinners include former Taoisigh Dr. Garret FitzGerald and Bertie Ahern, entrepreneur Harry Crosbie, U2 Manager Paul McGuinness, former Minister for Finance Ruairí Quinn, Dutch Minister for European Affairs Frans Timmermans, and Peter Sutherland SC, Chairman of BP plc. and of Goldman Sachs International, and UN Special Representative for Migration and Development.

Garda Stations.

Denis Naughten

Question:

237 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 192 of 24 November 2009 the position regarding this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12973/10]

The production of tender documentation for the works at Clonark Garda Station is well advanced and it is expected that competitive bids will be sought within the next 6 weeks approx.

It is expected that the required works to the station will be substantially completed by the end of this year.

Question No. 238 answered with Question No. 232.

Tax Code.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

239 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Finance the process by which a person who overpaid the income levy in 2009 but who has not worked with the same employer continuously throughout 2009 can apply for a refund of this overpayment; the length of time this process should take; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13034/10]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that a person who has overpaid income levy can apply for a refund in one of two ways as described below. In making an application a person should use the figures from the Income Levy Certificates which he/she will have received from his/her employer in respect of each employment held in 2009. The person should either:

(i) Complete an Income Levy Refund Claim Form and send it to their local Revenue office. The form is available to download from www.revenue.ie or from Revenue's Forms and Leaflets Service, which can be contacted at 1890 30 67 06; or

(ii) Submit their claim using the on-line facility at www.revenue.ie

Refund claims would normally be processed within 20 working days in accordance with Revenue's customer service standards. Unfortunately, however, Income Levy refund claims forms are among items of work currently embargoed in the on-going industrial action by certain Public Sector unions and accordingly it is not possible to say when claims will be dealt with. Talks between public service management and unions are continuing with the assistance of the Labour Relations Commission in an effort to resolve the current dispute.

Financial Services Regulation.

James Bannon

Question:

240 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13037/10]

As Minister for Finance I am responsible for the legislative and policy framework for the regulation of financial services. Under this framework I cannot become involved in disputes between individual financial institutions and their customers.

If the person referred to in the Deputy's question, feels that he has been unfairly treated by the financial institution concerned, he can make a complaint to that institution using their formal complaints system. If he is dissatisfied with the outcome of his complaint he can then refer the matter for further investigation to the Financial Services Ombudsman.

Health Service Staff.

Denis Naughten

Question:

241 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the Health Service Executive section 39 organisations have implemented pay cuts despite a reply (details supplied) to a parliamentary question; the steps she is taking to address this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12743/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Legislative Programme.

Finian McGrath

Question:

242 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will prevent the opening of any head shops in the Clontarf area, Dublin 3. [13052/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

David Stanton

Question:

243 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 249 and 301 of 19 January 2010, if she will list all the bodies who qualify as Health Service Executive service providers under section 38 of the Health Act 2004 and so are classified as public service bodies; the list of all the bodies to whom the HSE pays a grant towards running costs under section 39 of the Health Act 2004 and so are not liable for pension levy nor salary reductions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13072/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Medical Cards.

Jack Wall

Question:

244 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a medical card renewal application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12237/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Hospital Services.

Michael Ring

Question:

245 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be allocated a bed in the Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9. [12240/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Service Staff.

Phil Hogan

Question:

246 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide a report on the scope of the final framework agreement in respect of human resource issues; the intended use and application of this framework; if the use and application scope of the final framework agreement could be revised on the basis that the Health Service Executive appeared to be applying the agreement in a far wider set of circumstances than was designed or originally intended; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12241/10]

A draft employment control framework for 2010 for the health service is currently the subject of discussion with the Department of Finance.

Employment control frameworks have been used for a number of years in the health sector to give effect to Government policies on the number employed in the health sector. The 2009 framework gave effect to the Government decision on the moratorium on recruitment, promotion, or payment of an allowance for the performance of duties at a higher grade. A HSE circular issued which gave effect to the Government decision in the public health services and other specific aspects of the employment control framework for the health services.

The Government decision was modulated to ensure that key services are maintained insofar as possible in the health services, particularly in respect of children at risk, older people and persons with a disability. The 2009 framework specifically exempted a number of front line grades in the health sector from the moratorium. The focus on these key grades was in line with existing Government policy on the prioritisation of certain development areas, for which significant funding was already provided. The overall result was to assist in the reorientation of health employment to services delivered in primary and community care. This would mean reorganising and restructuring work in order to minimise the impact on essential service delivery. The redeployment and reassignment of staff would be an essential part of this process. It is a matter of great concern that the level of flexibility from staff and unions required to achieve the changes needed, is not forthcoming at the moment, due to the ongoing industrial action across the public service.

Health employment levels are monitored by the Joint Employment Control Monitoring Committee, which comprises officials from my Department, the Department of Finance and the HSE. This committee also reviews the implementation of the moratorium and any issues arising.

Third Level Sector.

Phil Hogan

Question:

247 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the recent decision to reduce wages of researchers in Trinity College, Dublin, arising from a decision which is likely to have a detrimental effect for persons who are engaged in beneficial work associated with health policy research; her views on whether the recent decisions are removing the incentive to conduct the valuable work in relation to health policy in the future; if she will investigate the possibility of exempting those persons who are researching health policy from pay cuts; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12243/10]

The issue of wage rates is governed by the employer/employee relationship. In the case of Trinity College Dublin as Minister for Health and Children I am neither involved nor have a role in relation to this matter. More broadly, the Government continues to place considerable importance on the promotion of research. Last year I launched an Action Plan for Health Research which seeks to bring about an increase in the extent and quality of health research, including health policy research. Of course the current economic environment means all areas in receipt of public funds must seek to control costs and achieve more with limited resources.

Medical Cards.

Michael McGrath

Question:

248 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application for an over 70 years medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [12245/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Finian McGrath

Question:

249 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [12246/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Finian McGrath

Question:

250 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [12247/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Finian McGrath

Question:

251 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied) in Dublin 3. [12248/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Hospitals Building Programme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

252 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the spending to date in preparing plans and undertaking preparatory works at the Mater for the new children’s hospital; if she has set aside moneys to commence the construction; and if she will outline the phasing. [12251/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Medical Cards.

Sean Sherlock

Question:

253 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a medical card application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12261/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Inter-Country Adoptions.

Noel Coonan

Question:

254 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a bilateral adoption agreement with Ethiopia; the outcome of discussions with an organisation (details supplied) following their annual general meeting in February 2010; if it is envisioned that parents here will be able to adopt from Ethiopia in the near future; if not, if transitional measures will be put in place for parents who have sent their declaration to Ethiopia; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12268/10]

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 intercountry adoption arrangements will be governed by the terms of the Adoption Bill 2009 when enacted.

Ireland does not have a bilateral agreement with Ethiopia in respect of adoption. Consideration of this matter is at an early stage. I can confirm that I have had ongoing contact with the Irish Ethiopian Adoption Organisation to discuss the position.

I brought forward at Committee stage an amendment to the Adoption Bill 2009 that will enable prospective adoptive parents to proceed with an adoption from a non-Hague or non-bilateral country, if prior to the establishment date, they have been issued with a Declaration of Eligibility and Suitability to adopt. The proposed amendment requires that the Adoption Authority (to be set up under the Act) would be satisfied that the particular adoption meets all the standards of the Hague Convention. Following the Committee stage debate I am also giving consideration to the possibility of including the three month ‘cooling off' period provided for in the ratification process for the Hague Convention in the transitional provision.

Ambulance Service.

Noel Coonan

Question:

255 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a proposed ambulance base in a town (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the reason for the delay in progressing this project; the amount of capital that will be made available for the project; the timeframe for spending same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12269/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Hospital Services.

Phil Hogan

Question:

256 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide evidence and justification with respect to diagnostic laboratory services as a whole to support her comments in Dáil Éireann on 8 December 2009 with respect to clinical laboratory services in the Health Service Executive when she stated that our turn around time is bad and our quality is poor; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12270/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Finian McGrath

Question:

257 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will examine the case of a person (details supplied). [12271/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Departmental Property.

Seán Connick

Question:

258 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of buildings her Department are renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12291/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Departmental Staff.

Seán Connick

Question:

259 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of staff in her Department, and any agency under her remit, who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12305/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Thomas Byrne

Question:

260 Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Meath is on a Health Service Executive waiting list to see a psychologist; and if so, the length of time that they have to wait to receive the attention they need. [12318/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Finian McGrath

Question:

261 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support the case of a person (details supplied) in County Wexford. [12328/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Medical Cards.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

262 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will issue in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12359/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

263 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when speech and language therapy sessions will be offered in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12361/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

264 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if a carer will be arranged in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12362/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Hospital Services.

Michael Creed

Question:

265 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children when an operator will be appointed to a new community hospital facility (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12370/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Joe McHugh

Question:

266 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide funding for an association (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12377/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Joe McHugh

Question:

267 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children the supports that are available to sufferers of diffuse idiopathic hyperostosis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12380/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Medical Cards.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

268 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made on an application for a medical card by persons (details supplied). [12390/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

269 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made on an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied). [12399/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Billy Timmins

Question:

270 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12400/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Catherine Byrne

Question:

271 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children when the Health Service Executive will take ownership of a building (details supplied) in Dublin 20; the plans that are in place for this building once under HSE ownership; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12405/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Catherine Byrne

Question:

272 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children the funding allocated to drug treatment and rehabilitative services and projects in 2009; the allocation for 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12406/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Catherine Byrne

Question:

273 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children the groups and projects in the Dublin 8, 10 and 12 areas which received funding from her Department and the Health Service Executive in 2009 to tackle drug misuse; the funding they will receive in 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12407/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

274 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children if weight management programmes will be available in every primary care team area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12415/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

275 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children if there will be adult obesity treatment units in each Health Service Executive region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12416/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

276 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children the funding she has provided in each of the past five years to tackle obesity and the outcome achieved; her plans for future programmes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12417/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

277 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a policy for the annual weighing of school children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12418/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Mental Health Services.

James Bannon

Question:

278 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12426/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

279 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will examine the reason for the delay in providing an assessment of needs for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if the assessment will be carried out without any further delay. [12433/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Medical Cards.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

280 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made on the request by a person (details supplied) in County Kerry to have their medical card application reviewed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12435/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

281 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made on a medical card application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12436/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Adoption Services.

Richard Bruton

Question:

282 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that persons who plan to adopt from a country (details supplied) are now in a race against time to get approval for adoption from the Adoption Board; and if she will make arrangements for a transition period to allow persons who have been pursuing this option for a long time to complete the process. [12438/10]

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 intercountry adoption arrangements will be governed by the terms of the Adoption Bill 2009 when enacted. Ireland does not have a bilateral agreement with Ethiopia in respect of adoption. Consideration of this matter is at an early stage.

I brought forward at Committee stage an amendment to the Adoption Bill 2009 that will enable prospective adoptive parents to proceed with an adoption from a non-Hague or non-bilateral country, if prior to the establishment date, they have been issued with a Declaration of Eligibility and Suitability to adopt. The proposed amendment requires that the Adoption Authority (to be set up under the Act) would be satisfied that the particular adoption meets all the standards of the Hague Convention. Following the Committee stage debate I am also giving consideration to the possibility of including the three month ‘cooling off' period provided for in the ratification process for the Hague Convention in the transitional provision.

The HSE and the Adoption Board are both aware of the deadlines associated with the transitional measure and are making every effort to process applications on hand for Declarations of Eligibility and Suitability to Adopt prior to commencement of the legislation.

Nursing Home Subventions.

Pat Breen

Question:

283 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to introduce a nursing home support scheme for persons requiring a short stay in nursing homes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12447/10]

My colleague, the Minister for Health and Children, has no plans to introduce a scheme of financial support specifically for short-term care in nursing homes. However, I would like to alert the Deputy to the availability of the respite care grant which is paid by the Department of Social and Family Affairs to carers and which can be used to cover the cost of short-term care in a nursing home. I would also like to draw the Deputy's attention to a number of wider developments which are currently ongoing and which are of relevance to the issue of short-term care.

Firstly, the Department of Health and Children is currently preparing a new legislative framework to provide for clear statutory provisions on eligibility and entitlement for all health and personal social services. On completion of this undertaking, proposals will be brought to Government for approval. Secondly, the Department has commenced work on analysis of future funding models for long-term care. This work will involve a detailed exploration of financially sustainable funding options to support the provision of all long-term care services, both community-based and residential. In line with the Government's commitment to supporting people to live in their own homes and communities for as long as possible, the work will consider the continuum of care services, including the role of short-term care, such as step-down or respite care, within nursing homes.

Medical Procedures.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

284 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason she has requested an organisation (details supplied) to carry out the report into the practice of symphysiotomy in view of the fact that members and former members of that profession are the subject of the review; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12450/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

285 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children the expected extent of the report into the practice of symphysiotomy which she has initiated; if those persons carrying out the review will be expected to examine the files of each of the women concerned and review their individual medical records; if such a detailed review will be carried out within the timeframe; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12451/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

286 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children the meaning of the term protocols in the context of the review of the practice of symphysiotomy that she has established; if there were, in fact, any protocols on such matters during the period under review; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12452/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

287 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 166 of 10 February 2010, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [12457/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Mary Upton

Question:

288 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans in place to outsource pathology services; the reasons she believes this might be the most appropriate option; her views on the possible loss of jobs and local expertise; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12470/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Mary Upton

Question:

289 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will reply to correspondence (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12471/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

290 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children if in respect of the measures announced in annex D of budget 2009 for her Department, if the item has been completed as of 10 March 2010; if not, the date by which this measure is expected to be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12477/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

291 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Laois will receive an appointment at Tullamore Hospital, County Offaly; and if the family will be notified at an early date. [12500/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Pat Breen

Question:

292 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will report on the status of a project (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12524/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Joe Carey

Question:

293 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the roll-out of BreastCheck to County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12531/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Children in Care.

Joe Carey

Question:

294 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 174 of 2 December 2009, when a reply will issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12532/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

James Bannon

Question:

295 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children the financial support available to a person (details supplied) in County Longford in respect of orthodontic treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12540/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

296 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health and Children the process involved in contacting women to remind them of their right to a free cervical cancer smear test; the numbers contacted each year; the way they are contacted; the effort that is made to ensure the database is up to date; the action that is taken when someone is uncontactable or has not taken up the offer or reminder of a smear test; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12556/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Children in Care.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

297 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to have the Health Information and Quality Authority investigate and report on the number of children that have died after having had a social worker investigate their circumstances on foot of contact by a concerned person or persons; the number of children that have been harmed or died while home under supervision; and the number of children that have been harmed or died after returning from care. [12558/10]

HIQA on 20th January 2010 published "Guidance for the Health Service Executive for the Review of Serious Incidents including Deaths of Children in Care”. The Guidance states that SSI should be informed within 48 hours of any serious incidents relating to the following children:

children in care

children known to the HSE child protection system

when a case of suspected or confirmed abuse involves a serious incident to a child known to the HSE or a HSE funded service.

The types of incidents referred to by the Deputy would appear to fall into the categories described above.

Health Services.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

298 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will establish an office independent of the Health Service Executive to which shortcomings and dangerous practice in care can be referred as addressed. [12559/10]

The health sector is one of the most complex areas of activity in every country and it must, by its very nature, command the confidence of those who use it. While I am confident that the majority of patients in Ireland receive effective and safe treatment, unfortunately, errors do occur in any health service. It is important therefore, that we have systems in place to minimize risk of occurrence and to detect and respond appropriately to them when they do occur. Patient safety has always been high on my agenda and on the agenda of this Government as is evident from various initiatives I have taken in this regard.

I established the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) in 2007. One of the main functions of the Authority is the setting of standards and monitoring healthcare quality. The Authority also has the power to undertake investigations as to the safety, quality and standards of services where it is believed that there is a serious risk to the health and welfare of a person receiving services. The Authority has carried out a number of investigations in recent years and there is acknowledged to be public confidence in the work of HIQA.

In January 2007, I established a Commission on Patient Safety and Quality Assurance to develop clear and practical recommendations to ensure that quality and safety for patients is paramount within the healthcare system. The Commission did consider the option of creating a new, stand-alone agency for Patient Safety. However, after much deliberation, the Commission concluded that it would be better to continue the momentum already built up through the working of the Commission and the improvements in patient safety that had already been made by the existing regulatory bodies. It was the Commission's view that a new patient safety agency, with a very broad remit, would require major legislative, structural and organisational changes which would take some years to put in place, thereby delaying the effective implementation of the recommendations in the Report. The Commission's Report —Building a Culture of Patient Safety was published in August 2008 and approved by Government in January 2009. The report contains 134 recommendations spanning almost every area of the health service. The most significant recommendation of the report is the introduction of a licensing system for all health services whether they are delivered publicly or privately based on standards to be set by HIQA. The Commission also proposed that the licensing scheme should be operated by HIQA. HIQA’s role in the licensing process, its overall remit in setting standards and monitoring health care quality and its achievements in this area to date, reinforces the Commission’s strong emphasis on patient safety and quality and further obviates the need for a new agency.

An Implementation Steering Group (ISG), chaired by my Department's Chief Medical Officer, was established in June 2009 with clear and regular reporting obligations to me regarding progress on the implementation of all the recommendations; this Implementation process is well advanced. The overall approach to the implementation plan endorsed by the Commission was to avoid short-term structural changes and, instead, to build on the structures already in place. The Commission considered that this was the best way of delivering results quickly. Finally, in March 2009 the provisions of the Health Act 2007 on protected disclosures were commenced. This facilitates all healthcare staff to disclose matters of concern to them to an authorised person and to provide statutory protection against penalisation in their workplace and against civil liability.

All the above measures are paving the way for a new culture of patient safety, openness, transparency, learning and accountability. On this basis, I do not see a need for, and am not proposing, the establishment of a separate office to which shortcomings can be referred.

Foster Care.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

299 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will alter the law to allow interested and concerned parties, such as foster carers, to have a legal right to be heard in court in respect of a child’s welfare and future. [12560/10]

The issues raised by the Deputy appear to be a matter for the Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform. However, I regret that due to industrial action my Department is not in a position to provide a substantive response to the Deputy's Question.

Hepatitis C Incidence.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

300 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will address the issue of the small number of women who received contaminated anti-D but who have tested negative for hepatitis C despite having similar health problems to persons who tested positive; if legislative change is necessary to address this; if she will amend the legislation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12561/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

301 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in arranging a person (details supplied) in County Kildare to be seen by an occupational therapist. [12563/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

302 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children the way a person (details supplied) in County Kildare can obtain intravenous antibiotics within the existing health system here. [12564/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Medical Cards.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

303 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will be renewed in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare whose current card expired in February 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12566/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Hospital Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

304 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a surgery will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12567/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Nursing Home Subventions.

Bernard Allen

Question:

305 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will explain a decision not to grant a refund in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [12586/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Legislative Programme.

Alan Shatter

Question:

306 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the operation of a head shop directly opposite a secondary school (details supplied) in Dublin 14; the action that she plans to take to address the concerns expressed by the parents of the children attending this school; when she plans to introduce the appropriate legislation to regulate both the operation of these head shops and the products sold there. [12598/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Pension Provisions.

Michael Ring

Question:

307 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ascertain from the Health Service Executive when the superannuation payment will commence for a former HSE employee (details supplied) in County Mayo in view of the fact that the person retired on 4 February 2010. [12634/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Richard Bruton

Question:

308 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that children who are with the Beechpark services who progress to a secondary school placement lose their home support grant even though they have the same care needs; the steps she will take to ensure that there will be uniformity of treatment of children based on their needs rather than the accident of the particular service to which their care is attached; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12638/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Departmental Expenditure.

Richard Bruton

Question:

309 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the aggregate budget that has been made available to fund rehab day care places for persons in 2010 and beyond, in particular a centre (details supplied); her plans to increase this; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12640/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Hospital Staff.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

310 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to appoint a haematologist to Letterkenny General Hospital, County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12642/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Hospital Services.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

311 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the recent controversy at Tallaght hospital, Dublin, an investigation will take place into X-ray practices; and if similar investigations will be carried out at other hospitals and departments. [12643/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Richard Bruton

Question:

312 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if the existing medical card contract with general practitioners includes the taking of necessary blood tests or if medical card patients are required to attend hospital for such tests; if she has done an analysis on the comparative cost and turnaround of requiring blood tests to be done in hospital compared to general practitioner surgery; and her views on an incentive for GPs to take blood tests at their surgeries. [12648/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

James Bannon

Question:

313 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the future of a centre (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12651/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Adoption Services.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

314 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will give a commitment to persons (details supplied) that they will receive their declaration of suitability from the Adoption Board as soon as possible in order that their inter-country adoption application will be covered under the Adoption Bill 2009. [12656/10]

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 intercountry adoption arrangements will be governed by the terms of the Adoption Bill 2009 when enacted.

I brought forward at Committee stage an amendment to the Adoption Bill 2009 that will enable prospective adoptive parents to proceed with an adoption from a non-Hague or non-bilateral country, if prior to the establishment date, they have been issued with a Declaration of Eligibility and Suitability to adopt. The proposed amendment requires that the Adoption Authority (to be set up under the Act) would be satisfied that the particular adoption meets all the standards of the Hague Convention. Following the Committee stage debate I am also giving consideration to the possibility of including the three month ‘cooling off' period provided for in the ratification process for the Hague Convention in the transitional provision.

The HSE and the Adoption Board are both aware of the deadlines associated with the transitional measure and are making every effort to process applications on hand for Declarations of Eligibility and Suitability to Adopt prior to commencement of the legislation.

Hospital Staff.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

315 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Health and Children the way the Health Service Executive will ensure that medical students with the best results and performance, disregarding their citizenship status, will be given equal opportunity when applying for internships in this country following the change in the selection process in the medical placement system. [12657/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

316 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Health and Children the way the Health Service Executive will treat existing non-EU medical students who are applying for a medical internship on their merit, using the revised selection process in the medical placement system. [12658/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

317 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Health and Children the way she plans to deal with the backlog of processing of optical claims under the medical card scheme in an area (details supplied); and if she will intervene to speed up the process. [12659/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Martin Ferris

Question:

318 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children if the cut in allocation to a centre (details supplied) in County Kerry will be reversed in view of the services which the centre provides for deaf people in the county. [12663/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

319 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to concerns regarding a nursing unit (details supplied) in County Roscommon, namely the complete suspension of its day care service due to staff shortages; if she will make a commitment that funding will be approved for staffing of the day care service as a priority; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12679/10]

This Government is committed to supporting people to live in dignity and independence in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. Where this is not feasible, the health service supports access to quality long-term residential care where this is appropriate and we continue to develop and improve health services in all regions of the country and to ensure quality and patient safety.

The Health Service Executive has operational responsibility for the delivery of health and social services, including those at facilities such as Plunkett Home, Boyle. The information contained herein represents the position at 9th March 2010.

The Executive has been asked, in the light of the current economic and budgetary pressures, to make a rigorous examination of how existing funding might be re-configured or re-allocated to ensure maximum service provision is achieved. This requires a stringent on-going review of the application of the resources currently available.

Integrated Services Directorate is the Executive's directorate responsible for the delivery of healthcare services. In line with what's happening around the country, the HSE in Roscommon is reviewing its use of resources and facilities for all care in the County.

The Executive indicated that it temporarily closed the Day-care Service at the Plunkett Community Nursing Unit in Boyle from Monday March 8th.

The Executive indicated that the service has been suspended for a period of 3 months and it will make every effort to restore it as quickly as possible.

Departmental Programmes.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

320 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Health and Children if her Department has received an application (details supplied) under the once-off initiative programme; if a decision has been made on this application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12680/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Nursing Home Accommodation.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

321 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Health and Children the proposals that are planned for the future of a nursing home (details supplied) in County Galway; if the Health Service Executive has plans for closing this nursing home; if so, the alternatives for replacing the 38 bed unit which currently exists at this nursing home; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12684/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Departmental Correspondence.

Michael Creed

Question:

322 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has received a request from an organisation (details supplied) for permission to extend the nursing support and care service which they provide to children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12689/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Pension Provisions.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

323 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children if employees of the Irish Blood Transfusion Service are public servants, the reason they have always paid into a private pension; if the pension is taken over by the public service, the changes that will occur; if employees will still have the benefits of their contributory pension as well as the public service pension; if the pension is taken over by the public service, will the employees still have to pay a pension contribution; as public servants, the reason the Department of Finance has not taken the pension levy that the IBTS staff have paid since March 2009; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that when the pension levy was introduced the employees were informed they were not eligible to contribute to it; the position of employees with eight years or less employment with the IBTS in the calculation of pensionable salaries if they are taken into a public service pension system; the reason it has taken since March 2009 to find out what pension staff should be paying into; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12697/10]

The Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) is a statutory body under the aegis of my Department. A contributory funded pension scheme, sponsored by the employer, was set up for employees in 1963. The Irish Blood Transfusion Service is a public service body as defined in the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act, 2009 and consequently its employees are public servants within the terms of that Act. The pension scheme in place comes under the scope of a public service pension scheme as defined in section 1 of the Act ‘provided for under an administrative measure to like effect as the Superannuation Acts'. The pension related deduction is required to be remitted to the Exchequer in all cases.

Officials from both my Department and the Department of Finance met with the Irish Blood Transfusion Service some weeks ago at the behest of the employer to discuss the scheme and its fund.The issue of future pension provision for IBTS employees is currently under consideration by both Departments.

EU Directives.

Alan Shatter

Question:

324 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made towards the funding and provision of a 116000 telephone number for the reporting of cases of missing children in keeping with the EU Universal Service Directive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12704/10]

The issues raised by the Deputy appear to be a matter for the Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform. However, I regret that due to industrial action my Department is not in a position to provide a substantive response to the Deputy's Question.

Nursing Home Subvention.

James Bannon

Question:

325 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Longford, who is 82 years, has to pay €554 per week to retain a place in a care centre while the person a patient at a hospital (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12732/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Hospital Staff.

Michael Ring

Question:

326 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if the management of a hospital (details supplied) in County Mayo has applied to replace the nursing staff they have lost; when this application was submitted to the Health Service Executive; if the HSE made an application to her to get the embargo on recruitment lifted to replace the necessary staff; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12735/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Tobacco Products.

Joan Burton

Question:

327 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the recent judgment of the European Court of Justice on the minimum pricing of tobacco products; if she remains committed to a high tobacco price policy as a deterrent to new smokers; and if she intends to bring forward legislation to prohibit the below cost selling tobacco of products. [12745/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Hepatitis C Incidence.

Joan Burton

Question:

328 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children her position in respect of the treatment of women exposed to contaminated anti-D in State run hospitals; her views on whether women could have been exposed to contaminated anti-D and developed symptoms consistent with hepatitis C even though they may test negative for the disease; the number of women who are estimated to have fallen into this category; her plans to amend legislation in order to allow these women the prospect of legal remedy through the compensation tribunal or otherwise and to avail of medical supports put in place to treat women exposed to contaminated anti-D; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12765/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Ministerial Travel.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

329 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the estimated cost for foreign travel, accommodation and related ministerial and official costs associated with St. Patrick’s day 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12820/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

330 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when speech and language therapy will be arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12905/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

331 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the location and reasons for provision of new services for Celbridge, County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12906/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

332 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding a surgical procedure; if surgery can be expedited in this case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12909/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Foster Care.

Richard Bruton

Question:

333 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children her policy in respect of social worker support to foster families and to children who are fostered; the number of foster families served by each social worker; if foster children have independent access to a different social structure in the event of mutual difficulties arising; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12913/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to this Question. However, the National Standards for Foster Care set out the core procedures under which foster care is to be provided and these standards state that each child and young person in foster care should have a designated social worker.

Health Information and Quality Authority.

Sean Fleming

Question:

334 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to extend the role and functions authority of the Health Information and Quality Authority to allow it to carry out unannounced inspections and other appropriate activities in voluntary hospitals and Health Service Executive controlled hospitals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12921/10]

The functions of the Health Information and Quality Authority include the setting of standards for the HSE and organisations providing services to the HSE and the monitoring of compliance with those standards. The Authority has already developed national quality standards in areas such as symptomatic breast disease, hygiene and infection prevention and control. Work is ongoing by my Department on the drafting of legislative proposals for a mandatory system of licensing which will cover both public and private healthcare providers based on explicit standards set by the Health Information and Quality Authority. It is anticipated that these legislative proposals will be brought to Government by the end of the year. Work is already well advanced by the Authority on the development of the standards which will underpin this system of licensing.

It is a matter for the Authority to decide how best to monitor compliance with any standards, including making unannounced inspections.

Hospital Staff.

Sean Fleming

Question:

335 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will outline the discussions, correspondence, agreement and approval that her Department may have given in respect of the retirement package of the former chief executive of Tallaght Hospital who retired in 2009; if she will state the cost to the Exchequer which is met by the vote to her Department; the details of the severance package approved including details of pension, lump-sum payment, retirement payment, years added on for pension calculations, number of years upon which final pension was based, number of years worked in the public service and any other benefits that may have attached; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12924/10]

Employees of the Meath, Adelaide incorporating the National Children's Hospital (Tallaght), are superannuated under the Voluntary Hospital Superannuation Schemes and therefore any retirement benefits are payable in accordance with its' scheme rules. The administration of that scheme was devolved to the Health Service Executive in February 2007. My Department has had no discussions, correspondence, agreement or approval in respect of potential retirement benefits in relation to the individual concerned.

Medical Cards.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

336 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12929/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Michael Ring

Question:

337 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be called for an appointment with an occupational therapist. [12933/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Departmental Funding.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

338 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will respond to an organisation’s (details supplied) request for a meeting to discuss its funding and services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12937/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Pension Provisions.

Mary Upton

Question:

339 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive can provide funding in the short term to rescue a pension scheme (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12938/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Hospital Services.

Mary White

Question:

340 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Health and Children the action she and the Health Service Executive are taking to address the situation in which outpatients are waiting three years and longer for appointments to see orthopaedic consultants at Waterford General Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12946/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Mary White

Question:

341 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans she and the Health Service Executive have to increase resources in Waterford General Hospital to reduce the long waiting list time being experienced by outpatients waiting to see orthopaedic outpatients; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12947/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Dan Neville

Question:

342 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will review the funding to an association (details supplied) to allow it to develop its services to patients suffering the condition in view of the fact it is in a position to employ only one specialist nurse facilitating the entire motor neurone disease community. [12969/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Cycle-to-Work Scheme.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

343 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if the cycle-to-work scheme is operational within the Health Service Executive; if she will report on the difficulties being experienced in some HSE areas in view of the fact that it seems that there is a lack of information about the way this system works or the person who is administering the scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12981/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Joe McHugh

Question:

344 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children if home help services are being cut. [13040/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Departmental Correspondence.

Mary Upton

Question:

345 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will reply to correspondence (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13041/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Health Services.

Alan Shatter

Question:

346 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of Health Service Executive special care units here; the names, addresses and contact details of each unit; the management structure and the number of children for which each unit is certified; the plans that the HSE has regarding a special care unit (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13046/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Finian McGrath

Question:

347 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support the case of a person (details supplied). [13055/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Youth Services.

David Stanton

Question:

348 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of special projects for youth being funded; the number of such projects for which funding has ceased in the past 12 months; the number due to come to an end in the next 12 months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13071/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Medical Cards.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

349 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13102/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

350 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will issue to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13082/10]

I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Rural Transport Services.

Frank Feighan

Question:

351 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Transport the position on the future of rural link services in Counties Leitrim and Cavan; if he will ensure that the service will be continued; and if he will state the name of the company that will be running the service. [12712/10]

The information requested cannot be provided at this time due to industrial action.

Air Services.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

352 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Transport if he has received correspondence from an organisation (details supplied); his views on this submission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12194/10]

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

357 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if he has received correspondence from the National Microlight Association of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12338/10]

Joe Carey

Question:

361 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Transport the discussions he has had with the Irish Aviation Authority in relation to the issues submitted to him by an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12496/10]

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

362 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12519/10]

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

364 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport his views on correspondence from an association (details supplied) regarding the regulatory and operational framework of microlight operations here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12641/10]

Frank Feighan

Question:

365 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Transport his views on concerns of the relationship between an organisation (details supplied) and the Irish Aviation Authority particularly the personnel licensing department of the authority which seems unwilling to meet and deal with concerns of this organisation which feels it has a justified grievance vis-à-vis regulations in the rest of Europe; if he will examine this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12677/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 352, 357, 361, 362, 364 and 365 together.

I am aware of the correspondence that the Deputies refer to. Statutory responsibility for the regulation of safety standards of civil aviation in the State has been vested in the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) under the Irish Aviation Authority Act, 1993. I have no function in this regard.

I understand from the IAA that it issued a consultation document on the current requirements for microlight operations in the State on 5th February. The consultation period has recently ended and I understand that the IAA has undertaken to publish the outcome of this review in mid-April. Prior to this recent consultation process, I understand from the IAA that its officers had met representatives of the National Microlight Association of Ireland on seven occasions between January 2009 and 2010. I trust that the comprehensive review of the requirements for microlight operations that is currently underway will afford all parties with an interest in this matter to make their views known and that all submissions will be given due consideration by the IAA in completing its review.

State Airports.

Joe Carey

Question:

353 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Transport the progress made to date on the establishment of full pre-clearance facilities for cargo at Shannon Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12227/10]

Joe Carey

Question:

354 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Transport the progress made on the establishment of an international Lynxs cargo hub at Shannon Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12229/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 353 and 354 together.

In 2009 the DAA concluded a memorandum of understanding with the Lynxs Group, a global airport cargo facility company, to explore jointly the feasibility of developing a major cargo facility at Shannon Airport.

My Department has recently received the DAA's evaluation of the business case for the project. The DAA has to operate to a commercial mandate and it does not have access to unlimited funds to undertake capital investment. Accordingly consideration of the best way to support the project will take account of the extent of potential investment by the DAA on foot of its evaluation of the business case and any support that could be provided by the State, subject to compliance with EU state aid rules.

The Ireland-U.S. Preclearance Agreement signed by myself and the then U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff, on 17 November 2008, does not provide for the preclearance of cargo. However, this is an issue that I raised with Secretary Chertoff at the time and later with his successor Janet Napolitano. Both indicated an openness to further consideration of the feasibility of cargo preclearance from Ireland, but the first priority is to fully establish passenger preclearance for commercial and general aviation at Dublin.

Departmental Property.

Seán Connick

Question:

355 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Transport the number of buildings his Department are renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12295/10]

The Department of Transport use offices in fourteen buildings throughout the State. The arrangement of lease terms, rental levels etc. in respect of leased buildings used by the Department of Transport is made by the Office of Public Works. I am advised that the information sought by the Deputy will be provided by the Minister for Finance in his reply to this question.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

356 Deputy Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the number of staff in his Department, and any agency under his remit, who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12310/10]

The information requested cannot be provided at this time due to industrial action.

Question No. 357 answered with Question No. 352.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

358 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Transport if the amalgamation of bodies announced in item 14 of Annex D of Budget 2009 has been completed; if not, the date by which it is expected to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12476/10]

In 2009, I approved proposals for the amalgamation of (i) the Air Accident Investigation Unit of my Department, (ii) the Railway Accident Investigation Unit of the Railway Safety Commission and (iii) the Marine Casualty Investigation Board to form the Irish Accident Investigation Office (I.A.I.O.) as an executive office within my Department. Those proposals entail the physical co-location of the three investigative bodies in existing Departmental accommodation in Dublin. Those facilities require adaptation to meet specialist investigative needs. That work will commence shortly, subject to successful tendering by the Office of Public Works, and is anticipated that it will be completed in the third quarter of 2010. The accommodation will become available for occupation by the I.A.I.O. shortly thereafter. Preparatory work on legislation to underpin the functions of the new Office is underway within my Department. Pending passage of that legislation, arrangements are in place to identify and implement the required administrative and operating synergies.

National Asset Management Agency.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

359 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Transport if his Department prepared and made available to the National Asset Management Agency the data and analysis referred to in SI 88 of 2010; if so, if he has or will make this information publicly available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12484/10]

I am informed by NAMA that the data and analysis provided by my Department has been taken into account by NAMA in its determination of appropriate adjustment factors for the long-term economic value of property assets. I have no plans to place information provided to the National Asset Management Agency in the public domain at this time, but will keep this under review.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

360 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if he will reply to correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12494/10]

I will reply to this correspondence shortly, when I have considered it fully.

Questions Nos. 361 and 362 answered with Question No. 352.

Coastal Protection.

Finian McGrath

Question:

363 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding a matter (details supplied). [12597/10]

In August 2008, Dublin Port Company made an application to An Bord Pleanála under the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006 to reclaim 21 hectares in order to facilitate proposed infrastructure development. A public hearing on the application was concluded in December 2009. The date for determination with regard to the planning application is a matter for An Bord Pleanála.

Questions Nos. 364 and 365 answered with Question No. 352.

Port State Control Inspections.

Michael Ring

Question:

366 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Transport the number of port state control inspections that have been carried out by officials from his Department on cruise ships visiting our ports in each of the years 2008 and 2009; the way those inspections relate to conditions and hours of work for crew members; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12685/10]

Port State Control inspections onboard foreign flagged ships in Irish ports are carried out under the auspices of the Paris Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Port State Control and EU Directives. These inspections are carried out to check for compliance with international law. Ireland continues to work within the Paris MoU and with the other EU Member States to ensure the development of the necessary port state control procedures that will be required in connection with the entry into force of the Maritime Labour Convention. The new Convention sets out clear principles and rights for seafarers. EU Member States are committed to ratifying the new Convention by 31 December 2010 and it is expected to come into force internationally in 2011. The Department's surveyors inspect over 400 foreign flagged ships per year and they detain any ship which poses a safety hazard or which does not comply with the international requirements on living and working arrangements. Of the over 400 annual inspections, 5 cruise ships were inspected in 2008 and 6 cruise ships in 2009.

Road Traffic Offences.

Joe Behan

Question:

367 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the possibility that used cars may from time to time be registered in the names and addresses of unwitting third parties who later receive notices of fixed penalty fines for illegal parking, illegal dumping and failure to pay road tolls; if he plans to present proposals to address this growing problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12696/10]

The Road Vehicles (Registration and Licensing) Regulations, 1992 sets out the provisions that must be complied with when ownership of a motor vehicle changes. Some 750,000 notices of change of vehicle ownership are received annually in my Department and details of new owners are recorded on the National Vehicle and Driver File. As part of the recording process a number of administrative procedures are in place to ensure that ownership details are correctly recorded.

Given the annual transaction volumes relatively few instances of incorrect ownership details are brought to attention. The evidence to date doesn't suggest that deliberate notification of incorrect owner details is a growing problem. Once matters of this nature are brought to attention my Department takes action to remedy the situation and where appropriate An Garda Síochána are informed.

Search and Rescue Service.

Seán Connick

Question:

368 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Transport the number of call outs made by the air sea rescue helicopters based in Waterford, Shannon, Sligo and Dublin in 2007, 2008 and 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12720/10]

Brendan Kenneally

Question:

374 Deputy Brendan Kenneally asked the Minister for Transport his plans to downgrade the search and rescue coast guard helicopter service based in Waterford; the rationale behind this decision; the detailed breakdown of any proposed savings from this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12941/10]

Brendan Kenneally

Question:

375 Deputy Brendan Kenneally asked the Minister for Transport the number of calls received by each of the four search and rescue coast guard helicopter services bases throughout the country over the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12943/10]

Brendan Kenneally

Question:

376 Deputy Brendan Kenneally asked the Minister for Transport the number of persons rescued by each of the four search and rescue coast guard helicopter service bases throughout the country over the course of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12944/10]

Brendan Kenneally

Question:

377 Deputy Brendan Kenneally asked the Minister for Transport the cost of running the four different search and rescue helicopter bases over the past five years; the cost of each base listed individually; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12945/10]

Mattie McGrath

Question:

378 Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Transport the number of times in the past five years that the 24 hour south-east rescue helicopter has been called out to emergencies or incidents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12977/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 368 and 374 to 378, inclusive, together.

There has been much ill-informed comment about the proposed new SAR contract. Because we are in the "standstill" period of the procurement process and about to commence contract negotiations I am somewhat constrained by what I can say. However I can make the following points in response to some comments made.

The new contract has been presented as a "cutback" in services; nothing could be further from the truth. The new contract will cost significantly more on an annual basis than the current contract because of the improved services to be provided.

The Government has just approved a massive half a billion euro investment in maritime search and rescue capability on the island. The proposed contract represents a dramatic increase in funding for SAR helicopter services in Ireland from approximately €30 million to €50 million per annum. This is an increase, in difficult circumstances, of €20 million a year in this service alone. The new contract represents a stepped improvement in the capacity, range, speed and capability of Ireland's SAR service. The detailed statistics requested cannot be provided at this time due to industrial action. However I will provide the Deputies with a table and charts that may be of interest to them.

Taskings

Day

Night

Waterford 2004

91

79

12

Waterford 2005

87

71

16

Waterford 2006

114

94

20

Waterford 2007

91

70

21

Waterford 2008

75

69

14

Waterford 2009

113

81

32

Shannon 2004

152

126

25

Shannon 2005

117

113

14

Shannon 2006

128

117

11

Shannon 2007

150

143

7

Shannon 2008

161

140

21

Shannon 2009

149

105

44

Sligo 2004

14

14

0

Sligo 2005

109

96

13

Sligo 2006

118

89

29

Sligo 2007

118

103

15

Sligo 2008

127

106

21

Sligo 2009

136

95

41

Dublin 2004

119

101

18

Dublin 2005

103

88

15

Dublin 2006

98

53

18

Dublin 2007

99

80

19

Dublin 2008

87

77

15

Dublin 2009

119

80

29

2,675

2,190

470

Seán Connick

Question:

369 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Transport the reasons for the proposed reduction in hours for the air sea rescue helicopter service based in Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12721/10]

John Browne

Question:

380 Deputy John Browne asked the Minister for Transport if he will ensure that the 24 hour search and rescue service is maintained in the south east. [13070/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 369 and 380 together.

No changes in helicopter availability will occur until the 1st of July 2013 and will be the subject of ongoing review. A preferred bidder has been nominated for the supply of the service using modern medium-load helicopters, which will improve the service nationally, albeit at significantly increased cost. As contract negotiations have yet to begin and we are presently in the standstill period required by procurement regulations, I do not intend to comment any further on the matter at this time. However, I can assure Deputies that the Government is specifically committed to keeping the level of provision of service at Waterford under review in the period to 2013.

Redundancy Payments.

Joan Burton

Question:

370 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Transport his views on the decision of Aer Lingus to make cabin crew redundant with a view to re-hiring all bar 230 of them on new contracts with lower salaries; if the State will be called on to fund, or part fund, these redundancies through the social insurance fund; the proportion of those working at senior cabin crew level who are to be among the 230 people not being offered a new contract; the extent to which cabin and pilot teams are being based in jurisdictions other than Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12742/10]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

381 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if it is his intention to use his shareholding in Aer Lingus in relation to the ongoing restructuring and industrial relations issues at the company. [13075/10]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

382 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Transport his views on the intention of a company to make several hundred workers compulsorily redundant with the specific intention of recruiting a large proportion of them back on reduced terms and conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13077/10]

I propose to take Questions 370, 381 and 382 together.

The implementation of the cost restructuring plan at Aer Lingus is entirely for the Board, Management and Staff of the company and it is not open to the Government to intervene. The industrial relations machinery of the State remains available to assist the parties where difficulties exist. Indeed, the Labour Relations Commission recently intervened to invite the parties to separate talks on 19th March. Arising from those talks, I understand that IMPACT is to ballot cabin crew members again on the company's cost restructuring plan which the four other groups at the company had voted to accept.

The duties of the three Government appointed directors to the board of Aer Lingus derive from the Companies Acts and, as such, the directors are obliged to pursue the best interests of the company. Subject to that duty, the three Government appointed directors are requested to seek to ensure that all decisions of the company that have significant implications for wider Government, aviation or regional development policies are considered at board level. In any such decisions they are directed to seek to reconcile commercial and public policy objectives.

From an aviation policy perspective, the Government wants to see a financially stable and viable Aer Lingus competing in the Irish air transport market. The cornerstones of Government aviation policy are competitiveness and connectivity. A viable Aer Lingus is key to ensuring the achievement of these objectives. I note that the Question relating to the impact on the Social Insurance Fund is also directed to my colleague, the Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment, who will address the Question insofar as it relates to her remit. The restructuring of Aer Lingus has no bearing on Transport 21 projections.

Rail Network.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

371 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 299 of 25 November 2008, if Iarnród Éireann has undertaken or is planning to undertake any works at North Esk freight yard or at Kent station, Cork which would prevent or add significant costs to the potential reconnection of North Esk freight depot to the rail network; if so, if he will outline those costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12761/10]

This is an operational matter for Irish Rail. Irish Rail has informed me that no further work has taken place since November 2008 at North Esk depot or at Kent station, which would prevent or add significant costs to the potential reconnection of the depot to the rail network.

I understand, however, that prior to that date, as a result of the loss of keg business in 2006, the track turnouts and crossover were removed. In addition the old signal cabin, which controlled movement in and out of the depot was not renewed or replaced as part of the Cork/Midleton line renewal and resignalling in 2008 and as a consequence was closed. Annual maintenance savings of approx €400,000 were achieved as a result.

In order to re-open the depot Irish Rail has indicated that it would be necessary to install 2 new track turnouts and a crossover and to connect the depot to the new signalling system. It is currently determining the costs involved, as a new business opportunity for rail freight from North Esk has recently been identified.

Ministerial Travel.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

372 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport the estimated cost in relation to foreign travel, accommodation and related ministerial and official costs associated with Saint Patrick’s Day 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12824/10]

The information requested will be posted on the Department's website as soon as it is finalised.

Rural Transport Services.

Jack Wall

Question:

373 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Transport the progress made to date regarding the commitment contained in the revised programme for Government to explore the provision of a full scale transport system in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8396/10]

The development of rural transport is a key objective in the Government's sustainable travel and transport plan, "Smarter Travel — A Sustainable Transport Future" and in my Department's Sectoral Plan under the Disability Act 2005. Reflecting the Government's continued commitment to the programme the provision for the rural transport in 2010 is being maintained at €11 million.

In relation to further development of rural transport services a key step is to ensure that existing resources in this area are utilised as cost-effectively as possible. A number of initiatives are currently underway in the country exploring the potential for improved synergies between existing transport providers, which include the Health Service Executive for health transport, the Department of Education and Science for school transport, Bus Éireann, Pobal for Rural Transport Programme services and other transport providers, such as the Irish Wheelchair Association.

These initiatives involve pilot transport projects in the North East and North West, an exercise to map all transport services in County Louth and a cross-border pilot rural community transport project under the auspices of the British/Irish Council. The outcome of these initiatives, as well as recent reports from the Citizens Information Board and the Joint Committee on Arts Sport, Tourism, Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs on the matter, will feed into the process for developing rural transport policy into the future. The Public Transport Regulation Act 2009 introduces a modern framework for public transport services, including rural public transport services.

Questions Nos. 374 to 378, inclusive, answered with Question No. 368.

Air Services.

Pat Breen

Question:

379 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to media reports that Aer Lingus is to centralise its maintenance facilities in Dublin Airport; the implications that this would have for the 70 jobs at their Shannon maintenance facility; if he will bring this matter to the attention of his appointees on the board of Aer Lingus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13051/10]

Aircraft maintenance at Aer Lingus is an operational and commercial matter for the company. I have no function in relation to such arrangements.

Question No. 380 answered with Question No. 369.
Questions Nos. 381 and 382 answered with Question No. 370.
Questions Nos. 383 to 397, inclusive, resubmitted.

Road Safety.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

398 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has been briefed by the Road Safety Authority and the Garda on when the national speed camera network will be fully operational; the reason for the delay in rolling out this speed monitoring system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12785/10]

The Garda Commissioner and I signed the contract for an outsourced safety camera network with the preferred service provider in November, 2009, following a tender and evaluation process.

The service provider will be paid according to the level of service contracted for. The number of speeding drivers detected will have no effect on the level of payments to the service provider. The purpose of the contract is to reduce speed, and so increase road safety, and not to generate revenue either for the State or the service provider.

In accordance with the provisions of the contract, the service provider is currently finalising arrangements to enable it to certify to An Garda Síochána that the necessary capital and project financing are in place. The contract provides for the service to commence operation six months after this certification has been provided.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that they expect rollout of the service to proceed rapidly after operation of the service commences.

Crime Levels.

Joe Carey

Question:

399 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the growing number of burglaries in Shannon town, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12191/10]

I am concerned at the incidence of burglaries and threats to the security of people's homes in Shannon Town and throughout the country. Consequently, one of the policing priorities which I set for An Garda Síochána in 2010 is achieving the maximum levels of safety for local communities.

The Garda Commissioner shares my concerns. An Garda Síochána continually develop and implement crime prevention and detection strategies to target those who are committing burglaries. These include intelligence-led and focused operations and a strong emphasis on crime prevention and reduction, with the aim of reducing not only crime but also the fear of crime and so ensuring a better quality of community life for all.

A community policing ethos drives the work of An Garda Síochána. The number of personnel assigned as dedicated community Gardaí has increased from 630 at the end of 2007 to 1,058 at the end of 2009, an increase of 68%. An Garda Síochána also support a number of initiatives which promote a community contribution to increasing public safety, including Community Alert and Neighbourhood Watch.

Neighbourhood Watch is a crime prevention programme which aims to enlist the active co-operation of the community in a neighbourhood by observing and reporting suspicious activities and by so doing reducing the level of criminal behaviour. Since its establishment, the Garda authorities have sought to encourage the active participation of the public in Neighbourhood Watch by encouraging and supporting communities to establish and maintain such initiatives and deploying crime prevention officers and liaison Gardaí to assist schemes. Neighbourhood Watch is supported by and operates under the Neighbourhood Watch Strategy 2007-2011, which has helped to strengthen its management and operation.

In rural areas the Community Alert programme, which was set up by Muintir na Tíre in association with An Garda Síochána in 1985, is a national movement comprising more than 1,300 local groups dedicated to improving the quality of life of vulnerable people in rural Ireland, particularly the elderly. My Department provides financial support to Community Alert.

Penalties for burglary and aggravated burglary are severe. A person who is convicted on indictment of the offence of burglary is liable to a fine or to a term of imprisonment of up to 14 years. A conviction for aggravated burglary carries a sentence of life imprisonment. Nevertheless, I have met the Attorney General with regard to the issue of mandatory sentencing for such crimes, and he has requested the Law Reform Commission to examine the issue.

Garda Deployment.

Joe Carey

Question:

400 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide the necessary resources in order to appoint two additional community gardaí for Shannon Town, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12192/10]

Responsibility for the allocation of resources, including personnel, within the Force rests with the Garda Commissioner, in consultation with his senior management team. Resource levels are constantly monitored, in conjunction with crime trends and other demands made on An Garda Síochána and the situation is kept under continuing review.

Garda Operations.

Joe Carey

Question:

401 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will resolve a matter (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12193/10]

The Deputy will be aware that the allocation and utilisation of Garda resources, including accommodation, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner.

I regret that specific information with regard to the matter raised by the Deputy is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Criminal Responsibility.

Joe Carey

Question:

402 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that young persons, some aged ten, 11 and 12 years, are involved in gang land activity; the legislative plans he has to deal with this growing problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12221/10]

I wish to refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 297 of 23rd February 2010, which deals with the matter of children under the age of criminal responsibility who come into conflict with the law. With regard to children who are twelve years of age and above who are in conflict with the law, I wish to refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 29 of 4th of February 2010, which deals with gangland legislation and to my reply to Question No. 137 of 17th of February 2010 on tackling youth crime.

Garda Deployment.

Joe Carey

Question:

403 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans that he has to increase the number of community gardaí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12223/10]

Responsibility for the allocation of resources, including personnel, within the Force rests with the Garda Commissioner, in consultation with his senior management team. Resource levels are constantly monitored, in conjunction with crime trends and other demands made on An Garda Síochána and the situation is kept under continuing review.

The Deputy will be aware that policing in local communities, either rural or urban, is a matter for all Gardaí and not just those assigned to the role of community policing. It is also worth noting that the number of Gardaí exclusively assigned to community policing has increased considerably in recent times. The figures available at the end of 2009 show that there were 1,058 members of the Garda Síochána specifically assigned to community policing, out of a total attested strength of 14,547. By comparison, at the end of 2007, 630 members were assigned to community policing, and the present number represents an increase of almost 68% on that figure.

All members who are assigned to community policing operate on a full-time basis. These members are specifically tasked with the duty of liaising with communities within their policing Districts. The new Garda Síochána National Model of Community Policing was launched early in 2009. This new model is about renewing, re-invigorating and re-structuring the community policing function within the Garda Síochána to deliver a consistent national structure to the community policing function; a more coordinated and efficient Garda service to the community; and the spread of good practices and quality service in community policing on a national basis.

A National Community Policing Office has been established within Garda Community Relations Section to develop and oversee the implementation programme. The model is being rolled out nationwide in line with an action plan which has been developed for implementation. Training is ongoing and it is intended that every District Officer throughout the country will take ownership of community policing within his or her area of responsibility. The Garda Síochána National Model of Community Policing Report is available on the Garda website www.garda.ie.

Prison Committals.

Joe Carey

Question:

404 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of young offenders held at St. Patrick’s Institution on the first day of every month in the years 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12224/10]

It is not possible to provide the figures in the format requested by the Deputy as this would require a disproportionate and inordinate amount of staff time and effort and could not be justified where there are other significant demands on resources.

Citizenship Applications.

John O'Mahony

Question:

405 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the delay in confirming the right to citizenship of an applicant (details supplied) who has been legally resident in this country for many years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12234/10]

The Deputy will appreciate that the granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is a privilege and an honour and not an entitlement or right. Applications must be processed in a way which preserves the necessary checks and balances to ensure that it is not undervalued and is given only to persons who satisfy the necessary qualifying criteria.

I regret that the information requested in relation to the application from the person concerned is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Criminal Prosecutions.

Richard Bruton

Question:

406 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there has ever been a prosecution brought on indictment for an offence under the Companies Acts 1963 to 2009; if there has been any such prosecution since 2000; and the details of all such prosecutions. [12256/10]

The matter raised by the Deputy comes within the remit of the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement, which is under the aegis of the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

Residency Permits.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

407 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 334 of 9 February 2010, when the further information sought will be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12262/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Garda Vetting.

Finian McGrath

Question:

408 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support a matter (details supplied). [12265/10]

The Garda Central Vetting Unit (GCVU) provides employment vetting for a large number of organisations in Ireland registered with the Gardaí for this purpose and which employ persons in a full-time, part-time, voluntary or training capacity to positions where they would have substantial, unsupervised access to children and/or vulnerable adults.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that an application for employment vetting has recently been received by the GCVU in respect of the person to whom the Deputy refers and it will be processed in the normal course. It may be helpful in relation to the matter raised if I clarify the vetting process for the Deputy. In response to a written request for vetting, the GCVU releases criminal history information in respect of the person concerned to the prospective recruiting organisation. The information released would be factual information referring to convictions and prosecutions whether pending or completed and whether successful or unsuccessful. Vetting is only carried out with the consent of the vetting subject. This factual criminal history information is returned to the designated person in the registered organisation which submitted the vetting application.

In the employment vetting process, therefore, it is not the function of the Garda Síochána to take a decision on the suitability or otherwise of an individual applicant. The results of the vetting application should form only one element of the overall recruitment decision, albeit an important one. The decisions on the suitability for recruitment or appointment of the person concerned rest at all times, as they rightly should, with the recruiting organisation.

Garda Recruitment.

Seán Connick

Question:

409 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the maximum age for recruitment to the Garda Síochána will increase in conjunction with the increase in the entitlement age to State pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12276/10]

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

417 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether the forced retirement of members of the Garda at 60 years of age should be abolished in view of the recent decision on the retirement age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12348/10]

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

418 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether the maximum recruitment age to the Garda Síochána of 35 years should be abolished in view of the recent decision on the retirement age; if the new retirement age of 68 years will mean that members of the Garda Síochána will now be allowed to serve a longer period of time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12349/10]

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

419 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if in view of the recent decision on the retirement age he and the Commissioner of the Garda Síochána will review the ongoing current legal proceedings they have undertaken against the Equality Tribunal to try to stop the Equality Tribunal investigating alleged age discrimination in the Garda Síochána relating to the recruitment and retirement ages in the Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12350/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 409 and 417 to 419, inclusive, together.

Recruitment in An Garda Síochána is governed by Statutory Regulation namely, the Garda Síochána (Admission & Appointments) Regulations 1988/2005. The recruitment age was considered as recently as 2004 when, on the recommendation of the Garda Commissioner, the maximum recruitment age was increased from 26 to 35 years. This was made by Statutory Instrument 749/2004 which amended regulation 164 of 1988.

This upper age limit of 35 was set having regard to equality legislation and also took into account the following criteria:

(1) The cost of training

(2) The need for recruits to serve for a sufficient period of time as full members of the service to recoup this cost.

(3) The operational requirements of the service in terms of having an age profile appropriate to the physical demands placed on members in the course of their duty.

There are no plans to change the upper age limit for recruitment to An Garda Síochána at this time.

Retirement of members of An Garda Síochána is governed by a number of statutory regulations which have the cumulative effect of setting the standard retirement age for members at 60 years of age. The setting of this age has been found by the High Court to be objective, reasonable and justifiable taking into account the general operational requirements of the force and to be consistent with Equality legislation and EU directives on the matter. Of course members with 30 years service may retire on a full pension at any time once they reach 50 years of age for those who joined prior to 2004 and 55 years of age for those who joined since that date.

The legal proceedings referred to by the Deputy are currently before the Supreme Court and it not be appropriate to comment on them at this time.

Garda Strength.

Seán Connick

Question:

410 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of members of the Garda Síochána who are on a period of sick leave in excess of 30 days; the number of members of the Garda Síochána who are on disabled leave; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12278/10]

I regret that the information requested by the Deputy is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Garda Recruitment.

Seán Connick

Question:

411 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Disability Discrimination Act applies to recruitment to the Police Service of Northern Ireland and to police forces in Great Britain; if he will confirm the current policy of the Garda Síochána towards the recruitment of persons with a disability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12279/10]

Recruitment in An Garda Síochána is governed by Statutory Regulation namely, the Garda Síochána (Admission & Appointments) Regulations 1988/2005. Following selection by the Public Appointments Commission each applicant must also undergo a physical competency test, a medical examination and character vetting.

Section 46(1)(3) of Part 5 of the Disability Act 2005 provides that part, which deals with Public Service Employment, does not apply to the Garda Síochána.

Asylum Applications.

Seán Connick

Question:

412 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of outstanding applications for asylum outstanding on 1 March 2008; the average processing time for an application for asylum on that date; the current amount of outstanding applications for asylum; and the current processing time for an application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12280/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Departmental Property.

Seán Connick

Question:

413 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of buildings his Department are renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12292/10]

I am not in a position to provide the information sought by the Deputy at this time, but will do so as soon as the information is available.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

414 Deputy Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of staff in his Department, and any agency under his remit, who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12306/10]

The number of wholetime equivalent staff in my Department and agencies and executive offices staffed by it (including administrative staff in the Irish Prison Service) that are primarily employed in the work areas referred to by the Deputy is as follows:

Payroll: 65; Financial Management: 103; HR Management: 77; Means Assessment: 0; Procurement: 16; ICT: 52.

The number of wholetime equivalent staff primarily involved in these specific work areas in bodies under the auspices of my Department who recruit their own staff is as follows:

An Garda Síochána: Payroll: 0; Financial Management: 13; HR Management: 63; Means Assessment: 0; Procurement: 0; ICT: 35.

Garda Civilian: Payroll: 0; Financial Management: 43; HR Management: 82; Means Assessment: 0; Procurement: 0; ICT: 0.

Courts Service: Payroll: 0 ; Financial Management: 23 ; HR Management: 14 ; Means Assessment: 0 ; Procurement: 2 ; ICT: 16.

Property Registration Authority: Payroll: 1; Financial Management: 7; HR Management: 17; Means Assessment: 0; Procurement: 2; ICT: 29.

Irish Prison Service (Prison Grades): Payroll: 0; Financial Management: 7; HR Management: 2; Means Assessment: 0; Procurement: 0; ICT: 0.

National Disability Authority: Payroll: 1; Financial Management: 2; HR Management: 2; Means Assessment: 0; Procurement: 0; ICT: 0.

Irish Human Rights Commission: Payroll: 0; Financial Management: 0; HR Management: 0; Means Assessment: 0; Procurement: 0; ICT: 0.

Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission: Payroll: 0; Financial Management: 4; HR Management: 3; Means Assessment: 0; Procurement: 0; ICT: 4.

Legal Aid Board: Payroll: 2; Financial Management: 7; HR Management: 8; Means Assessment: 35; Procurement: 2; ICT: 10.

Citizenship Applications.

Tom Hayes

Question:

415 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will issue in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary who has applied for naturalisation. [12320/10]

I regret that the information requested by the Deputy is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Departmental Agencies.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

416 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the property services regulatory authority will be put on a statutory footing and brought into operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12340/10]

The Property Services (Regulation) Bill 2009, which provides for the establishment of the Property Services Regulatory Authority on a statutory basis, has completed Second Stage in the Seanad. Amendments to the Bill are currently being drafted and I expect that Committee Stage will be taken in the coming weeks.

Questions Nos. 417 to 419, inclusive, answered with Question No. 409.

Citizenship Applications.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

420 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for family reunification in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12363/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Residency Permits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

421 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made to date on an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12364/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

422 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made to date on an application for residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12365/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

423 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when stamp 3 will be renewed in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12366/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Liquor Licensing Laws.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

424 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to change the law to allow for the sale of intoxicating liquor on Good Friday; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12369/10]

The law in relation to this matter is being kept under review in the context of preparation of the forthcoming Sale of Alcohol Bill.

Citizenship Applications.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

425 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the routes to citizenship open to persons whose great grandparents were Irish born emigrants; if there are plans to amend citizenship eligibility rules in the context of the Irish diaspora; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12374/10]

A person whose great-grandparent was born in Ireland may qualify for Irish citizenship by descent if one of the parents, being a grandchild of a citizen born in Ireland, had registered their name in the Foreign Births Register prior to the person's birth. There is one exception to that rule. If one parent had registered in the Foreign Births Register prior to 31 December 1986, their child can register even if the parent had not registered at the time of that person's birth.

If persons are not entitled to Irish citizenship in these circumstances, they can apply for Irish citizenship through naturalisation. Such applications are considered under the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Acts 1956 — 2004. The applicant must fulfil certain statutory requirements including requirements in relation to residency. However I am empowered to dispense with the statutory conditions in whole or in part in certain circumstances — for example where the applicant is of Irish descent or Irish associations. Every such application is decided upon on its individual circumstances and in accordance with the law.

The Deputy may be aware that a review of the current framework for the acquisition of Irish citizenship is underway in my Department. That review will consider a wide range of issues relating to the current statutory framework as well as other administrative arrangements in the granting of citizenship. There is scope in the review for consideration of the issue raised by the Deputy. I propose that the review will, when published, be the subject of public consultation before any final proposals are settled. Any recommendations arising from that review which require amendments to Citizenship legislation will be brought forward in the normal way.

Fireams Regulations.

Joe McHugh

Question:

426 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the requirement for firearm certificate applicants to secure general practitioner certificates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12385/10]

The Deputy may be interested to know that Section 4 (3)(c) of the Firearms Act 1925, as inserted by Section 32 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006, provides that an applicant for a firearms certificate may be asked to give consent for any enquiries in relation to the applicant's medical history, as further information, which may be required as part of the assessment of the application.

I can inform the Deputy that Annex B of the Commissioner's Guidelines on the practical application and operation of the Firearms Acts, which are available on the Garda website, elaborate further on this matter.

Drug Courts.

Catherine Byrne

Question:

427 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of persons who have been referred to the drug treatment court since its inception; the number that have successfully completed the drug treatment court programme since its inception; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12408/10]

I am advised by the Courts Service which under the Courts Service Act 1998 is responsible for the provision of information and statistics on the court system that a total of 374 people were referred to the Drugs Court from 2001 up to end 2009. Some 29 people have successfully completed the programme.

My Department has been examining the operation of the Court to see how its throughput levels might be increased. I hope to be in a position to make an announcement on the matter in the near future.

Garda Stations.

Joe McHugh

Question:

428 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will review commitments made two years ago to build a new Garda station in a town (details supplied); if his Department’s investment of €100,000 in March 2010 in the town’s existing Garda station has implications for the commitment made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12428/10]

The programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is based on agreed priorities established by An Garda Síochána. This programme is brought forward in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works, which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation.

I regret that current information with regard to the matters referred to by the Deputy is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Citizenship Applications.

Richard Bruton

Question:

429 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that applicants for naturalisation are having their applications deferred if they become unemployed, even when their work authorisation confines them to specific fields of employment; and his views on relaxing the work authorisation terms to allow such persons to apply for other jobs. [12434/10]

I have adopted a general policy that I will normally require an applicant for naturalisation, unless he/she is a refugee, programme refugee or Stateless person, to show that he/she has supported him or herself (and his or her family if appropriate) while residing in the State and, as far as can be determined, is in a position to continue that support into the future. Where an applicant has become unemployed there is a doubt as to whether they will be in a position to support themselves into the future. I have decided in some cases to defer a final decision on an application for a certificate of naturalisation, to give an applicant time to demonstrate that they can support themselves and their dependants. Invariably, this has been to the applicant's benefit.

As the Deputy will be aware a new policy was implemented in 2009 whereby foreign nationals who had worked for 5 consecutive years with employment permits and who had kept their immigration permission up to date and met certain other conditions, were to be granted Stamp 4 immigration permission. A certain tolerance was built into the system to cater for gaps in immigration registration, with gaps of up to 3 months duration being allowed subject to a maximum total for all gaps of 6 months in the 5 year period. Cases that do not meet these requirements are not eligible for the concession outlined under the new policy. It should be noted that the concession is entirely ex-gratia and also that foreign nationals have a responsibility to keep their registration up to date.

For persons who do not qualify for the concession, either because they have less than 5 years of employment permits or because their registration gaps exceed the permitted periods, the general provision for redundant workers apply. These provisions, which have been considerably enhanced, allow for such persons to receive a 6 month grace period under an immigration Stamp 1 within which they can seek other employment.

Garda Strength.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

430 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will increase the numbers employed at the Garda vetting office in Thurles, County Tipperary in view of the delays in getting character clearance for individuals working with children and other vulnerable individuals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12440/10]

The Garda Central Vetting Unit (GCVU) provides employment vetting for a large number of organisations in Ireland registered with the Gardaí for this purpose and which employ persons in a full-time, part-time, voluntary or training capacity to positions where they would have substantial, unsupervised access to children and/or vulnerable adults.

The GCVU has managed a substantial increase over recent years in the numbers of vetting applications it receives — 187,864 in 2007; 218,404 in 2008 and 246,194 in 2009.

The processing time for vetting applications fluctuates during the year due to seasonal demands when the volume of applications received from certain sectors can increase, for training placements for example. Additional time may be required to process an individual vetting application in cases where clarification is required as to the details provided or where other enquiries need to be made, for example, when the person in question has lived and worked abroad. There will always be a reasonably significant time period required to process a vetting application. However, the Gardaí make every effort to reduce this to the minimum possible consistent with carrying out the necessary checks. I am informed by the Garda Authorities that the average processing time for valid vetting applications received at the GCVU may vary from four to five weeks in periods of lower demand to up to 12 weeks at times when demand is particularly high.

The allocation of Garda resources, including personnel, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner. There is currently a total of 78 personnel assigned to the vetting unit, including six Gardaí and 72 Garda civilian personnel. This represents a very significant increase in the level of personnel assigned to the unit, which stood at only 13 before the current process of development in Garda vetting began in 2005.

Anti-Social Behaviour.

Terence Flanagan

Question:

431 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12501/10]

The issue raised by the Deputy is primarily a civil matter and as such is outside the remit of An Garda Síochána. However, when An Garda Síochána receives a complaint about behaviour by neighbours, they can request them to cease that behaviour. The Garda powers in this regard relate to ensuring that a breach of the peace does not occur.In circumstances where the behaviour is anti-social within the meaning of the Criminal Justice Act 2006, a member of An Garda Síochána may issue a behaviour warning.

Complainants may also be advised by An Garda Síochána of their civil entitlements under section 108 of the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992. A local authority, the Agency or any person may complain to the District Court regarding any noise, which is so loud, so continuous, so repeated and of such duration or pitch or occurring at such a time, as to give reasonable cause for annoyance. The court may order the person or body making the noise to take the measures necessary to reduce the noise to a specified level or to take measures to limit or prevent the noise.

There is provision in legislation under the aegis of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government for third parties who are adversely affected by the behaviour of private or local authority tenants. The Department has published details of the powers available to local authorities in relation to anti-social behaviour and information in relation to noise nuisance, including information relevant to local authority dwellings, private rented and privately owned dwellings, on its website www.environ.ie. As part of the preparatory process for new legislation on noise pollution an extensive public consultation was undertaken by the Department. After consideration of the submissions received during the consultation process, the General Scheme of a Noise Nuisance Bill was approved by the Government in 2009.

Garda Stations.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

432 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason plans for a new 24-hour Garda station at Carndonagh, County Donegal, servicing north Inishowen, announced four years ago, appear to have been scrapped; and the further reason options such as purchase and renovation of other suitable premises in Carndonagh for a new station have also been scrapped. [12504/10]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

433 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the commitment made four years ago for a 24-hour Garda station based in Carndonagh, County Donegal, and servicing north Inishowen will be delivered. [12505/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 432 and 433 together.

The programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is based on agreed priorities established by An Garda Síochána. This programme is brought forward in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works, which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation.

I regret that current information with regard to the matters raised by the Deputy is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Departmental Agencies.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

434 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will announce the membership of the working group (details supplied); if the working group will seek submissions from interested persons and members of the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12521/10]

The membership of the Group is as follows: Michael Durack SC (Chairman); Martin O'Reilly (The Irish Association of Investment Managers); David Potter (Irish Auctioneers and Valuers Institute) Niall Gaffney (Irish Association of Pension Funds); Barry Smyth (Society of Chartered Surveyors); Stephen Mackarel (Retail Excellence Ireland); Gavin Ralston SC; Torlach Denihan (Irish Business and Employers Confederation); Avine McNally (Small Firms Association); Mark Fielding (Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association); Grainne O'Carroll (Department of Enterprise, Trade & Employment); Jonathan Buttimore (Office of the Attorney General); Regina Terry (Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform); Mary Joy (Secretary to the Working Group).

The Working Group's method of operation, including the position it will take in relation to the taking of submissions, is a matter for the Group to decide on.

Deportation Orders.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

435 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of persons from a group (details supplied) who availed of their right under section 5 of the Illegal Immigrants (Trafficking) Act 2000 to apply for a judicial review of their deportation order; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12527/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Detention Centres.

Joe Carey

Question:

436 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the design phase for the development of the new national children detention facilities at a campus (details supplied) in County Dublin have been completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12534/10]

Joe Carey

Question:

437 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the tendering process will commence for the development of the new national children detention facilities at a campus (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12535/10]

Joe Carey

Question:

438 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is satisfied that the first phase of the new national children detention facilities at a campus (details supplied) in County Dublin will be completed by the end of 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12536/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 436 to 438, inclusive, together.

In March 2008, the Government approved the development of new national children detention facilities on the Oberstown campus near Lusk, Co. Dublin.

The Office of Public Works has been charged with designing the new facilities and managing the procurement of the construction stage of the project. The design stage is well advanced with both concept and sketch designs having been completed. I am advised that a decision will be made shortly in relation to the appropriate planning mechanism to be used and that work will commence on developing detailed designs so that Request for Tenders documentation for construction can be prepared.

The completion date for the new facilities will be subject to the planning process to be followed but it is hoped, subject to any requirements that the planning authorities may have, that Phase 1 could be completed by mid-2013.

The Deputy will be aware, however, that tendering for the construction of the new facilities will be subject to Government approval and to the necessary funding being made available.

Garda Deployment.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

439 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí stationed at each Garda station in County Louth in 2005 and 2010; if he will increase the numbers in these locations; the opening hours of each station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12542/10]

I regret that the information requested by the Deputy is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Departmental Staff.

Billy Timmins

Question:

440 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; if same will be examined; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12562/10]

The position is that the individual concerned was paid in error during a period of sick leave. In the normal course, the Department would have arranged to recoup the overpayment from his salary. However, this was not possible, as the person did not resume work and instead, retired on ill-health grounds. In the circumstances, the only option open to the Department was to recoup the overpayment from his lump sum.

Residency Permits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

441 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made to date in the determination of residency or naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12576/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

442 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; if he has received new information supporting this case recently; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12577/10]

The Deputy will be aware, from the many previous Dáil replies in this matter, that the person concerned is the subject of a Deportation Order following a comprehensive examination of his asylum claim and of his case under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999.

As stated previously, Section 3(11) of the Immigration Act, 1999 provides the Minister with a power to amend or revoke a Deportation Order. An application seeking to revoke a Deportation Order must set out any new facts or circumstances which have arisen since the original decision to deport was made. Any such application submitted would be considered on its merits, having due regard to all refoulement issues, and following such consideration a decision would be taken to either affirm or revoke the Order. No representations of this nature are awaiting a decision at this time.

The enforcement of the Deportation Order in this case remains an operational matter for the Garda National Immigration Bureau.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

443 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency or citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12578/10]

I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the person concerned made an application for residence in the State based on his marriage to a French national on 17 June 2009. The person referred to by the Deputy was informed of the decision on 20 August 2009. A request by the applicant and his spouse for a review of this decision was received on 8 September 2009. All applications for review are dealt with in chronological order of date of receipt and the decision to refuse this application remains under review.

Citizenship Applications.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

444 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or anticipated citizenship status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12579/10]

As the name and reference number submitted by the Deputy do not match, I regret that it is not possible to provide a response to the Deputy's Question.

Travel Documentation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

445 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if travel document will be issued to persons (details supplied) in County Kildare who may have to travel outside the State for medical reasons and return notwithstanding judicial process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12580/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Residency Permits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

446 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when stamp 4 will be updated in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12581/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

447 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when renewal of Garda National Immigration Bureau card and stamp 4 will be undertaken in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12582/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Garda Investigations.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

448 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a driver's licence has not been returned to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12583/10]

I am not in a position to respond to the Deputy at this time, but will do so as soon as the relevant information is available.

Deportation Orders.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

449 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will reconsider the circumstances of a deportation order in relation to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12584/10]

I refer the Deputy to my detailed Reply to his earlier Parliamentary Question No. 101 of Thursday, 28 January 2010, in this matter. The position in the State of the person concerned is as set out in that Reply. The person concerned is not the subject of a Deportation Order.

Departmental Investigations.

Finian McGrath

Question:

450 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied). [12587/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Garda Equipment.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

451 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Garda Síochána is in the process of procuring, or has recently procured, ammunition; and if so, if any Israeli companies submitted tenders for the contract. [12594/10]

The procurement of ammunition for use by members of An Garda Síochána is a matter for the Garda Commissioner. I am informed by the Commissioner that, for security reasons, it is not the practice to supply details in relation to the ammunition provided for the force.

Garda Accommodation.

Brendan Kenneally

Question:

452 Deputy Brendan Kenneally asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if asbestos has been found in a building under renovation (details supplied) in County Donegal; if this has caused the suspension of the project; if same will involve a higher cost for the overall project, making it even less of an economically appropriate measure for the overall need; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12614/10]

The programme of refurbishment of Garda accommodation is based on agreed priorities established by An Garda Síochána. This programme is brought forward in close co-operation with the Office of Public Works, which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. I regret that the information requested by the Deputy is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Citizenship Applications.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

453 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the citizenship application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cavan; and if this will be processed without delay. [12626/10]

I regret that the information requested by the Deputy is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Garda Ombudsman Commission Investigations.

Joan Burton

Question:

454 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the measures that will be taken by his Department and the Garda Síochána to address and prevent system failures which were identified by the Garda Ombudsman in relation to the inquiry into the death of a person (details supplied) while in Garda custody in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12692/10]

The report of the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission into the tragic death of the person concerned was published on the 10 March 2010. The report found that there was insufficient evidence to support the allegation that the person in question was assaulted by Garda members during his arrest, and no credible evidence that he was mistreated in any way during his detention in Store Street Garda Station. It also made a number of findings and recommendations regarding the presence of ligature suspension points in cells and the process required to ensure prisoners do not have access to ligatures while in custody.

The Garda Commissioner is carefully examining these recommendations. Significant change has already occurred since this tragic death in 2005, and a number of the recommendations are already being progressed by the Garda Síochána and in some cases have been implemented. These include the following developments:

The installation of CCTV systems in Garda stations. To date systems have been installed in ten stations with plans to install systems in a further five.

In 2008, following a survey by the Office of Public Works of cells and detention facilities in 40 Garda stations in the Dublin Metropolitan Region, a programme of upgrade works was commenced and is ongoing.

Guidance notes for members of An Garda Síochána on the regulations governing the treatment of persons in Garda custody have been extensively updated to incorporate recent legislative changes and other legal developments and to reflect best practice. The regulations detail the authority for searching prisoners in Garda custody and the removal of cords, strings, belts etc., from clothing for detained persons.

A leaflet containing "Information for Persons in Custody" is given to each detained person and clearly outlines their rights and entitlements as well as the procedures which will be followed by Gardaí throughout the period of detention.

A revised Garda Síochána Custody Record was issued in 2009 and provides for a risk assessment of each detained person as well as capturing more comprehensive detail on issues such as the condition of the detained person on arrival. These extensions to the custody record are intended to enhance the rights and treatment of persons detained.

The operation of all these measures will be subject to ongoing monitoring and review as part of the consideration being given to the report's recommendations and in pursuance of the Garda Síochána's commitment to upholding and protecting the rights of all detained persons.

Joan Burton

Question:

455 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the establishment of an independent public inquiry into the death of a person (details supplied) who died while in Garda custody in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12693/10]

On 13 July 2007 an inquest into this tragic death returned a verdict of suicide. In the same month, the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission decided in the public interest to carry out an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. This was the first public interest investigation commenced by the Ombudsman Commission under Section 102 (4) of the Garda Síochána Act 2005. On the 10th March 2010, the Commission published their report following this investigation.

The report found that there was insufficient evidence to support the allegation that the person in question was assaulted by Garda members during his arrest, and no credible evidence that he was mistreated in any way during his detention in Store Street Garda Station. It also made findings in relation to the presence of a ligature suspension point in the cell, and how the person in question had a ligature with him in the cell. It also found that the recording of details of the custody fell below appropriate standards. The report also made a number of valuable recommendations on improved cell safety and custody records which will be carefully considered by the Garda Commissioner. In fact, many of the recommended changes were already under way and in some cases implemented prior to this report.

The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission is fully independent in the exercise of its functions and has been charged by the Oireachtas with investigating tragic incidents of this kind. Indeed, the Ombudsman Commission says in the report that it is satisfied that the report of the investigation and its review have been thorough, proportionate and independent. I do not believe, in these circumstances, that a further inquiry would be justified.

Criminal Assets Seizures.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

456 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of money and the value of assets that have been seized by the Criminal Assets Bureau in the Limerick Garda division annually; and the amount that this has returned to the Exchequer annually since its inception. [12717/10]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

457 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the value of assets and moneys emanating from the Limerick Garda division currently held by the Criminal Assets Bureau or awaiting court orders allowing disposal of properties; and the amount expected to be transferred to the Exchequer from CAB in the Limerick Garda division this year and into the near future. [12718/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 456 and 457 together.

I am informed by the Criminal Assets Bureau that they do not collate such information in the format requested by the Deputy. The gathering and compilation of the information as requested would require a disproportionate and inordinate amount of staff time and effort and could not be justified in current circumstances where there are other significant demands on resources.

Citizenship Applications.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

458 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of naturalisation certificates issued in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010. [12729/10]

The numbers of naturalisation certificates issued in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010 are set out in the following table.

Year

Number of naturalisations certificates issued

2010 YTD

1,907

2009

4,531

2008

3,117

2007

1,501

2006

1,389

Departmental Investigations.

Finian McGrath

Question:

459 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support a matter (details supplied). [12755/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Courts Appointments.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

460 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the legal basis for the appointment of peace commissioners, commissioners for oaths and notaries public; the manner in which candidates for appointment to these positions are selected; the names of all persons so appointed since 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12808/10]

Section 88 of the Courts of Justice Act 1924 provides the legislative basis for the appointment of Peace Commissioners by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. It is open to anyone to seek nomination to this office and all such requests for appointment are considered by me.

Section 19 of the Courts of Justice Act 1924 vests the power to appoint notaries public and commissioners to administer oaths in the Chief Justice. I understand that solicitors holding current practice certificates are entitled to act as Commissioner for Oaths. In the case of Commissioners for Oaths, applicants who wish to be appointed a Commissioner for Oaths are appointed by the Chief Justice sitting in open court. Applications are made by petition which must be verified by affidavit of the petitioner in which is exhibited a certificate of fitness generally signed by six local solicitors and six leaders of the local business community.

The petition is brought before the Chief Justice by notice of motion which must be served through this office on:

(a) the District Court Clerk for the applicant's district;

(b) for Dublin only — The Law Society;

(c) for all areas outside Dublin — the local Bar Association.

In the case of Notaries Public, appointments are also made by the Chief Justice sitting in open court. Applications are made by petition which must be verified by affidavit of the petitioner in which is exhibited a certificate of fitness generally signed by six local solicitors and six leaders of the local business community.

The petition is brought before the Chief Justice by Notice of Motion which must be served through this office on:

(a) The Registrar of the Faculty of Notaries Public in Ireland;

(b) The Secretary Law Society of Ireland.

The Petition may be moved by counsel or solicitor on the petitioner's behalf. The general practice is to appoint only solicitors as notaries public. When a person, who is not a solicitor, applies to be appointed a notary public, the Law Society will require that he give an undertaking to the Chief Justice not to engage in conveyancing or in legal work usually performed by a solicitor.

It is not feasible to provide the personal details of the appointees requested by the Deputy.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

461 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he accepts applications, nominations or recommendations for appointment of persons to the positions of peace commissioners, commissioners for oaths and notaries public. [12809/10]

The Minister for Justice Equality and Law Reform is provided with the power to appoint Peace Commissioners by virtue of the Courts of Justice Act 1924. It is open to anyone to seek nomination to this office and all such requests for appointment are considered by me. The appointment of Commissioners for Oaths and Notaries Public are a matter for the Chief Justice and I have no role in these appointments.

Ministerial Travel.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

462 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the estimated cost in relation to foreign travel, accommodation and related ministerial and official costs associated with St. Patrick’s Day 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12821/10]

The total travel and related costs incurred by me on my St. Patrick's Day visit to Paris amounted to €182.58, the cost of my scheduled flight. Other than the normal Civil Service travel and subsistence rates which apply, there were no further costs to the exchequer as I stayed in the embassy residence for the duration of my visit and travelled to official functions using embassy or public transport. Travel costs incurred by my spouse who accompanied me on the visit were covered personally. To date, my Private Secretary's costs amount to €182.58.

Departmental Expenditure.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

463 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the entire expenditure for his Department, including the Courts Service, has been the subject of approval by Dáil Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12903/10]

In common with all other Departments and in compliance with Public Financial Procedures all expenditure in my Department's Vote Group requires ex ante scrutiny and approval by Dáil Éireann. Moreover and again in common with expenditure in all other Departmental Vote Groups, the relevant Accounting Officers for specific Votes are accountable for expenditure in their respective votes.

Residency Permits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

464 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12904/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Citizenship Applications.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

465 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12907/10]

I regret that the information requested by the Deputy is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Drugs in Prisons.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

466 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of occasions on which various drugs have been detected in each prison in each month in the past two and a half years to date in 2010; the means used to distribute drugs within the system; the extent to which such methods continue to be used and the action taken following any detection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12908/10]

It is not possible to provide the figures in the format requested by the Deputy as this would require a disproportionate and inordinate amount of staff time and effort and could not be justified where there are other significant demands on resources.

Prior to May 2008 seizure of drugs was recorded under the generic description "prohibited articles" and a detailed breakdown is not readily available. From May (when new security initiatives were first introduced) to 31 December 2008, there were 351 drug seizures within the Irish prison system and up to and including 13 September 2009, the date for which the most recent figures are available, there were 696 drug seizures within the Irish prison system in that year. Final statistics for 2009 are currently being compiled and will be forwarded to the Deputy, once available.

It is acknowledged that drugs present a major challenge to the Irish Prison Service and in this context, the Irish Prison Service Drugs Policy & Strategy, entitled Keeping Drugs out of Prison was launched in May 2006. The implementation of this Policy & Strategy has seen an intensification of efforts in the prison system to eliminate the availability of illicit drugs within prisons. The measures taken reflect the many and varied ways in which attempts are made to bring drugs into prisons and include:

Tighter control and monitoring of prisoner visits in all closed prisons.

New visiting arrangements in most closed prisons, with visitors required to be pre-approved by the Governor and required to provide identification on each visit.

Greater use of screened visits.

Greater vigilance in examining mail by prison censors and searching of other items entering the prison.

Increased random searching of cells and their occupants.

Stricter searching of all persons committed to custody and prisoners returning from court, temporary release, after visits or on receipt of intelligence.

Use of modern cameras and probe systems which assist in searching previously difficult areas such as hollow chair or bed legs, under floor boards and other cavities.

Installation of nets over exercise yards to prevent access to contraband items, including mobile phones and drugs. Use of phone detectors and phased installation of telephone blocking technology.

In addition, a number of new security initiatives have been introduced in all closed prisons including:

The introduction of enhanced security screening for all persons (visitors and staff) entering our prisons.

The establishment of a drug detection dog service within the Irish Prison Service involving approximately 30 handling teams.

The establishment of Operational Support Units dedicated to and developing expertise in searching and gathering intelligence on illicit material being hidden inside our prisons; they will be available in addition to the normal prison staff and can target specific security problem areas.

The Body Orifice Security Scanner (BOSS) chair was introduced by the Irish Prison Service in early 2008 and to date eight chairs have been installed.

The new security screening at prison entrances and the measures introduced have had considerable success in preventing the flow of and assisting in the capture of contraband such as illicit drugs. The battle will be an ongoing one in which I an determined to take whatever practical measures are possible to thwart illegal activity. There will be no easing off in relation to the security measures already in place and enhancements and improvements will continue to take place in the future.

There is regular contact between the Prison Service and An Garda Síochána to discuss security issues and the Gardaí will be contacted whenever any suspected criminal offence has taken place. The Irish Prison Service continues to work to implement its Drugs Policy and Strategy, which also includes continued investment in services within prisons to reduce the demand for illicit drugs in the prisoner population as well as meeting prisoners' treatment and rehabilitative needs.

Citizenship Applications.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

467 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on correspondence (details supplied) in relation to an application for naturalisation in respect of an adopted person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12922/10]

Information in respect of an application from the person referred to in the Deputy's question is not readily to hand. I will respond to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Residency Permits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

468 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if extension of permission to remain in the State or stamp 4 will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12928/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

469 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12930/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Traffic Calming Measures.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

470 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the measures taken and resources made available to police the new 30 km/h zones in Dublin city centre, George’s Street, Dún Laoghaire and elsewhere around the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12936/10]

I am not in a position to respond to the Deputy at this time, but will do so as soon as the relevant information is available.

Asylum Applications.

Finian McGrath

Question:

471 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will list payments made by his Department or agencies under his Department to language analysis companies that investigate the language of asylum seekers for each of the past five years; the method and matter by which they were chosen; if he plans to change the way these companies are selected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12975/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Residency Permits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

472 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13103/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

473 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13104/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

474 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will determine the residency application in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13105/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Citizenship Applications.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

475 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected citizenship status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13106/10]

Officials in the Citizenship Division of my Department inform me that there is no record of an application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's question.

Residency Permits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

476 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13107/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

477 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13108/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

478 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Louth. [13109/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

479 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13110/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

480 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will determine the residency application in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13111/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

481 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath. [13112/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

482 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status or issue of green card in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13113/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

483 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13114/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

484 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will determine the residency application in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13115/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Citizenship Applications.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

485 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13116/10]

I regret that the information requested by the Deputy is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

486 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13117/10]

I regret that the information requested by the Deputy is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Residency Permits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

487 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when Stamp 4 will be renewed and residency clarified in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13118/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Citizenship Applications.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

488 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the citizenship status will be offered in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13119/10]

I regret that the information requested by the Deputy is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

489 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13120/10]

I regret that the information requested by the Deputy is not readily to hand. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

490 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a passport will be returned to a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13121/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Residency Permits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

491 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding residency status in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13122/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Deportation Orders.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

492 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will review the case to deport in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13123/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Residency Permits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

493 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 20; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13124/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. The information sought by the Deputy will be provided at a later date.

Commemorative Events.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

494 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has plans to celebrate the bicentenary of the independence of Argentina in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12208/10]

2010 marks the Bicentenary of the independence of Argentina. Given the long-standing and close bilateral ties which characterise relations between Ireland and Argentina, a wide ranging programme is being put in place to mark this significant anniversary in Argentina's history.

The Irish Embassy in Buenos Aires launched its commemorative programme of Argentina's Bicentenary during the highly successful visit of the GAA Hurling All Stars to Buenos Aires in December 2009. Hurling, which was played by Irish immigrants to Argentina up to the late 1930s, and the visit by the GAA All Stars provided the nexus around which to celebrate the contribution of the Irish to Argentine agriculture, education and civic life as well as to reinforce the hurling connection.

A highlight of Ireland's contribution to the celebration of the Bicentenary in Argentina will be the visit to Latin America in May/June the L.E. Niamh which will include a stopover in Argentina. This visit offers an excellent opportunity to highlight and strengthen relations with Argentina, where Foxford-born William Brown founded the Argentine Navy. The Embassy is actively planning a number of events in Buenos Aires during the visit in the context of the Bicentenary.

In recognition of the very important role Irish migrants have played in the history and development of Argentina over the last 200 years, a number of Embassy Buenos Aires 2010 cultural activities will focus on the theme of migration. This will include collaborating with the Southern Cross Newspaper, which celebrates its 135th anniversary this year, to present a special edition looking back at the history of the Irish-Argentine community over the last 200 years and sponsoring Irish community participation in Immigrant Day celebrations in September.

In addition, with the assistance of the Cultural Section of the Department, the Embassy has programmed a number of other cultural events in Argentina this year as part of the centenary celebrations including Irish participation in the Buenos Aires International Festival of Literature and the Chopiniana music festival.

Passport Applications.

John O'Mahony

Question:

495 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their passport which has been in the passport office for the past six weeks and the money taken from their credit card; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12236/10]

I am pleased to confirm to the Deputy that the passport for the applicant issued on 12 March 2010. This application was received by the Passport Service on 03 February 2010 through the regular post channel i.e. it did not use the Passport Express service provided by An Post. As advised on the Department's website applicants should only apply by regular post if a passport is not required for at least 4-6 weeks. This application was processed within this 6 week timeframe.

False Passports.

Richard Bruton

Question:

496 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the action taken to date following the discovery that Irish passports were used by perpetrators of an assassination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12259/10]

The first indication we received of the use of false Irish passports in connection with the killing of Mr. Mahmoud al Mabhouh was on 4 February, when local press reports in Dubai stated that several suspects were believed to have entered Dubai on Irish passports. The Ambassador of Ireland to the United Arab Emirates, Mr. Ciarán Madden, immediately contacted the UAE Foreign Ministry to seek clarification as to the truth of these reports. On 8 February, Ambassador Madden was received at the UAE Foreign Ministry and was informed that they had no information at that time but that the matter was under investigation by the UAE's security services.

On 15 February, the Dubai Chief of Police gave a news conference during which he gave the details of fake Irish passports. My Department, in cooperation with the Gardaí and the security services, immediately commenced an investigation into the apparent use of fraudulent Irish passports, including by making contact with the Irish citizens whose passport numbers had been stolen. Ambassador Madden has maintained ongoing contact with the UAE Foreign Ministry and the Dubai Police, in addition to liaising with his German, French, Australian, Austrian and British counterparts. Ambassador Madden has met with the UAE Minister for Foreign Affairs to discuss the situation. The Dubai police have shared with us the details of the fraudulent passports they suspect were used, and we have passed these on to the investigating Gardaí.

Our investigations are ongoing, and I do not yet have categorical proof of who was responsible for the counterfeit. However, we have noted the large number of media reports which have implicated the Israeli security services and the circumstantial evidence which supports this assumption. We have also noted the comments of the Dubai police and links to Israel in the case of the forged British, French, Australian and German passports used by the suspects.

I met with the Israeli Foreign Minister, Avigdor Lieberman, in Brussels on 22 February to outline how seriously we take the misuse of Irish passports and to ask for the assistance of the Israeli authorities in establishing the facts of this case. The Israeli Minister said that he had no information on the matter. While in Brussels, I attended a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, after which my EU colleagues and I issued a statement strongly condemning the fraudulent use of EU passports.

In addition to meetings at political level, our Ambassador to Israel has met with the Europe Director of the Israeli Foreign Ministry and registered Ireland's serious concerns. The Israeli Ambassador to Ireland was invited to Iveagh House where senior officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs stressed the seriousness with which the Government viewed the matter.

I have discussed the situation with British Foreign Secretary David Miliband and we are cooperating closely and sharing information. Officials from our Embassies in Paris, London and Berlin have been in contact with the Foreign Ministries of those countries to ensure a coordinated response. Senior officials of my Department have also met on two occasions with the Australian Ambassador to Ireland and shared information with him.

I have also discussed the matter with the UAE Foreign Minister, Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed, and have assured him of Ireland's cooperation. The Attorney General took the opportunity presented by his St. Patrick's Day visit to the UAE to discuss the issue with the Foreign Minister.

In recent years, there has been very significant investment in enhancing the security features of the passport book to ensure that our citizens can travel in safety. It is significant that eight of the passports were counterfeit versions of the old Irish passport which was replaced in 2005 by the modern APS Irish passport. The older passports are gradually being phased out over the next 5 years. In addition, since October 2006, all new Irish passports have a biometric chip embedded in the personal details page. This makes them extremely difficult to reproduce and we have not experienced any credible attempt to reproduce the new version.

Our primary focus in all of this has been to guarantee the security of the Irish citizens affected. There are now a total of eight false or falsely obtained Irish passports in question. We have spoken to all of the citizens who hold or have held passports with numbers provided by the Dubai authorities. We have provided them with new passports. On behalf of those individuals, and on behalf of all Irish passport holders, my Department is determined to uncover the truth of the situation. It is simply unacceptable that totally innocent citizens could have been placed in danger by the irresponsible actions of others.

Departmental Property.

Seán Connick

Question:

497 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of buildings his Department are renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12290/10]

My Department pays the rent on office space in two buildings in the State:

Ground floor of Hospitality House, Cumberland Street, Dublin 2. The rental cost in 2009 was €144,900 and the length of the lease is 20 years. However, the lease on these premises is being terminated this year.

Ground floor of Findlater House, 27-31 Upper O'Connell Street, Dublin 1. The rental cost in 2009 was €419,175. The lease on these premises is for 4 years and 11 months and was negotiated by the Office of Public Works on behalf of my Department.

All other rent commitments relating to properties in the State occupied by the Department of Foreign Affairs are discharged by the Office of Public Works.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

498 Deputy Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of staff in his Department, and any agency under his remit, who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12304/10]

The current number of full-time equivalent staff in my Department is 1218. This does not include approximately 300 locally-engaged staff serving in Missions abroad.

The table below sets out details of the number of full-time equivalent staff working in the areas mentioned by the Deputy.

Area of work

Number of staff

Payroll

4.5

Financial Management

41.9

Human Resources

21.6

Means Assessment

0.0

Procurement

3.5

ICT Services

22.9

3.5 staff members are engaged specifically in oversight and compliance in my Department. Purchasing functions are distributed to business units throughout the Department.

I have included staff in audit roles in my Department's Development Cooperation Directorate in the overall number working in financial management.

North-South Bodies.

Joe Costello

Question:

499 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of North-South Bodies in operation; the number and names of board members on each body; the remuneration received by each member; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12327/10]

There are seven North/ Bodies in operation — Waterways Ireland, Inter TradeIreland, the Foyle Carlingford and Irish Lights Commission (Loughs Agency), the Special EU Programmes Body, the North/South Language Body (which comprises Foras na Gaeilge and the Ulster Scots Agency), the Food Safety Promotion Board and Tourism Ireland Ltd.

The North/South Bodies are a significant part of the architecture of the Good Friday Agreement and they deliver important public services for the island across a range of sectors. Their work includes tourism marketing, the management of the island's canal networks, food safety promotion, the development of the Foyle and Carlingford Loughs, promotion of the Irish language and Ulster Scots, management of cross border EU funds and promotion of North/South trade and business.

The British-Irish Agreement of 1999 provides for the structure of the North/South Implementation Bodies. The legislative framework further provides that board members of the Bodies be appointed by the North South Ministerial Council and that the Council should also determine the remuneration of board members with the approval of the Finance Ministers in both jurisdictions. At a meeting of the Council in Institutional Format on 11 November 2009, it was agreed to reduce the fees payable to board members of the North/South Bodies. The fees now applicable to board members of the North/South Bodies are as follows:

Chairperson: €12,600 per annum

Vice-chairperson: €10,350 per annum

Member: €8,100 per annum.

The current board members of the North/South Bodies are as follows:

Food Safety Promotion Board (Advisory Board)

John Dardis (Chairperson)

Campbell Tweedie (Vice Chairperson)

Ken Baird

Lynn Ní Bhaoigheallain

Joe Byrne

Brian Cunningham

Aoife Healy

Susan Heraghty

Neven Maguire

Seamus Sheridan

Con Traas Jane Wells

North South Language Body Foras Na Gaeilge

Liam Ó Maoilmhichíl (Chairperson of Foras na Gaeilge/Joint Chairperson of An Foras Teanga)

Eoghan Mac Cormaic (Vice Chair)

Áine Andrews Lucilita Breathnach

Seanna Breathnach

Adelaide Nic Cárthaigh

Peter Gallagher

Máiréad Nic Giolla Mhichíl

Liam Kennedy

Norman Henry

Éamonn Kinch

Marcas Mac Ruairi

Dónal Ó Bearra

Pádhraic Ó Biadha

Diarmuid Ó Murchú

Caoilfhionn Nic Pháidín

Tha Boord O Ulstèr Scotch (Ulster Scots Agency)

John Hunter (Chairperson of Tha Boord o Ulstèr-Scotch/Joint Chairperson of North South Language Body)

Ian Adamson

Tony Crooks

Angela Graham

William Humphrey

William Leathem

Jacqui Reed

The Foyle, Carlingford and Irish Lights Commission (Loughs Agency)

Tarlach O Crosain (Chairperson)

Jacqui McConville (Vice Chairperson)

Enda Bonner

Brendan Byrne

John Byrne

Denis Haughey

Alan McCulla

Joe Miller

John Mulcahy

Winston Patterson

Thomas Sloan

Jim Wilson

The Trade and Business Development Body (InterTradeIreland)

David Dobbin (Chairperson)

John Fitzgerald (Vice Chairperson)

Brendan Butler

Ray Doherty

Vincent Parker

Sean Gallagher

Jack Gilmour

Hugh Logue

Padraig MacLochlainn

Patricia McKeown

Dr Gerard O'Hare

Tom Scott

Tourism Ireland Limited

Hugh Friel (Chairperson)

Ciara Boyle (Vice-Chairperson)

Brian Ambrose

David Lyle

Robert Manson

Mandy Martin

Bill McGinnis

Howard Hastings

Moira McNamara

John Power

Shaun Quinn

Ann Riordan.

The Agreement did not provide for boards for Waterways Ireland and the Special EU Programmes Body.

Anti-Irish Racism.

Joe McHugh

Question:

500 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will confirm whether the Scottish Government has replied to our consulate’s letter regarding an incident (details supplied); if he will report to the House of the Oireachtas the import of that communication; if the Scottish Government has outlined a plan of action to combat this growing anti-Irish racism in Scotland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12378/10]

As I have stated previously, since its opening in 1998, the Consulate General of Ireland in Edinburgh has maintained a wide-ranging dialogue with the Scottish Government on issues. The Consul General remains in close contact with senior officials in the Scottish Government in relation to incidents of sectarianism of the kind referred to in the question.

I understand that the Scottish Government's continued commitment to tackling sectarianism is carried out through several policy approaches, including education and the promotion of constructive dialogue within Scotland. Promoting Citizenship through Football was launched in December 2008 and is new a partnership between Scottish football and the Scottish Government which seeks to address this issue.

The partnership is chaired by Mr. Gordon Smith, Chief Executive of the Scottish Football Association. The Scottish Premier League, the Scottish Football League, the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland and Sport Scotland are represented in this group. In addition, the Scottish Government has seconded an official to the Scottish Football Association to act as a single contact point for this group. The Consulate General has met with this partnership, and continues to monitor closely developments in this regard.

The Scottish Government provides funding to a wide range of anti-sectarian and anti-racism initiatives, including Nil By Mouth, Sense Over Sectarianism, Show Racism the Red Card and others.

In January 2010, the Scottish Government announced that it is funding an anti-sectarianism pilot programme in Scottish prisons. This March, Scottish Minister for Community Safety Fergus Ewing MSP reiterated that the Scottish Government is committed to tackling sectarianism wherever and whenever it occurs.

The Consulate General will continue to maintain a dialogue with officials at the Scottish Government on issues relating to sectarianism.

Visa Applications.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

501 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason the Irish embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria does not deal with visa applications from applicants from Macedonia who must travel to the embassy in Georgia instead. [12543/10]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

502 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a review has taken place of Irish Embassies to ensure that they cater for the countries nearest them for the purposes of visa applications which do not have an Irish Embassy; and if there is any relaxing of the rule that the applicants must present themselves at an embassy when applying and when collecting their visa, in the case where the applicants have to travel long distances at great cost to themselves. [12544/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 501 and 502 together.

Accreditation of Irish Diplomatic Missions is decided on a number of criteria which include, inter alia, the provision of consular services. The Department regularly reviews its Diplomatic network of Embassies and Consulates abroad in this context. In addition, the Embassy of Ireland, Sofia, does not routinely deal with visa applications from Macedonia because Macedonia is accredited to the Embassy of Ireland, Bratislava.

In 2008, the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform introduced an on line visa application facility for all Irish visa applications.

Rollout of the online facility was completed in July, 2009. It is available worldwide through the website www.inis.gov.ie and provides detailed information on the application process including the documents required to support the application.

The on line facility indicates the appropriate Irish Embassy, Consulate or Visa office in the applicant's country of residence or the Irish Mission to which their country is accredited to enable them to submit their application form and supporting documentation. In some cases where Ireland is neither resident nor has accreditation applicants are asked to submit their applications directly to INIS headquarters at Burgh Quay in Dublin.

In countries where there is no Irish Embassy or Consulate a visa application may be submitted through the Honorary Consul network. Applicants may need to make an appointment with the Honorary Consul to ensure that the application and supporting documentation are in order before the application is transmitted to the appropriate Irish Embassy or Consulate. When the visa decision is made the Honorary Consul may also contact the applicant about collection to ensure that they receive their visa in good time as postal deliveries can be problematic in some regions.

From time to time the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform may require individuals to attend for interview in order to clarify elements of their application. Applicants would be contacted by the relevant Irish Embassy, Consulate or Visa office in this regard.

In the case of applicants from Macedonia, applications are made on line and submitted to the Embassy of Ireland Bratislava in Slovakia. If the visa is approved it is usually couriered back to the applicant in Macedonia. However arrangements can be made in advance with the Irish Embassy in Bratislava to have it collected from the Irish Embassy in Sofia.

Ireland does not have a resident Embassy in Georgia

Travel Advice.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

503 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the travel advice for Israel and the Occupied Territories provided by his Department, it is still necessary to advise travellers to visit only in visits organised by reputable tourist groups in view of the fact that this advice may discourage independent travellers whose spending power can be of immense importance to smaller tourism providers in the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12668/10]

My Department's travel advice is regularly updated and is designed to help Irish citizens make informed decisions before travelling overseas. It reflects a considered assessment of the risks involved and is based on the best information available to the Department. It draws on reports from Irish Diplomatic and Consular Missions abroad and advice issued by other countries including Member States of the European Union, as well as other like minded countries. Every effort is made to ensure that the advice offered is accurate and up-to-date.

The Department is not currently advising against travel to Israel and the Occupied Territories, except to the Gaza Strip, but is advising against non essential travel to the border area with the Gaza Strip. It is also advising citizens to exercise extreme caution before deciding to travel to the occupied West Bank, particularly in the light of the two fatal incidents in the West Bank over the weekend in which four Palestinians were killed. This advice also takes account of the current security situation, including the events which occurred on 18 March, when a mortar attack from Gaza on Israel resulted in the death of a farm worker.

In addition, there have been disturbances in Jerusalem and in parts of the West Bank over the past week, and the threat level is considered such as to justify the retention of our current advice.

As I am sure the Deputy will accept, the primary responsibility for undertaking a journey overseas, or for any decision taken against accepting our advice, rests with the individual.

I can assure the Deputy that this Department will continue to monitor the situation closely and will remain in regular contact with the Israeli authorities.

Foreign Conflicts.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

504 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the Goldstone report; if he will comment on his recent trip to Gaza; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12669/10]

As I have reported to the House on previous occasions, most recently on 11 February, I consider the Goldstone Report to be a serious and important contribution to efforts to determine the truth of allegations about events in Gaza a year ago, to establish accountability for them, and to seek to prevent a recurrence of such alleged infringements of international law. I have commended Judge Goldstone and his colleagues, including retired Defence Forces Colonel Desmond Travers, for their work.

The UN General Assembly last November adopted a Resolution, supported by Ireland, which called on the parties to the conflict to report within three months on their implementation of the Resolution, and particularly the requirement to establish independent and transparent enquiries into allegations relating to the conduct of their forces during the conflict. On 4 February UN Secretary General Ban sent to the General Assembly the reports he had received from Israel and the Palestinian Authority. SG Ban noted at that stage that the reports do not provide enough information to be clear yet if the General Assembly Resolution has been complied with, or is in the process of being complied with.

The UN General Assembly subsequently adopted on 26 February a follow-up Resolution on the Goldstone Report which renewed the call on all parties to establish and conduct credible and independent investigations to an international standard. Ireland was one of the 98 countries who voted in favour of this Resolution. The Resolution calls for a further report from the SG within a period of five months, by 26 July, on the implementation of the Resolution. Discussions are now also underway at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on follow up to the original Resolution adopted by the HRC last October, following publication of the Goldstone Report.

Regarding my recent visit to Gaza, it had been my intention to travel to Gaza for some time — I had repeatedly expressed my serious concerns over the situation there and it was clearly important that I see for myself the full humanitarian consequences of the blockade imposed on the Strip. My visit was also an invaluable opportunity to examine the vital humanitarian work being undertaken by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in Gaza and which Irish Aid is actively supporting.

The programme for my visit was drawn up in close collaboration with UNRWA and its Irish born Director of Operations, John Ging, and afforded me the opportunity to see the truly impressive work which UNRWA is performing in maintaining basic humanitarian services for the people of Gaza. Among the locations I visited were an UNRWA food distribution centre in Rafah and two UNRWA preparatory schools.

I have stated clearly since visiting Gaza that the current conditions prevailing for the ordinary population in Gaza are inhumane and utterly unacceptable in terms of accepted international standards of human rights. The international community has to do very much more to bring the unacceptable humanitarian crisis in Gaza to an end. Eighty per cent of the population of Gaza now live below the poverty line and UNRWA are encountering increasing levels of abject poverty where people basically do not have enough food, even with their meagre food allocations, to live. This situation can not be allowed to continue, or deteriorate even further.

At a meeting with EU High Representative Catherine Ashton and my fellow EU Foreign Ministers in Cordoba on 5 March I raised my full concerns regarding Gaza and I therefore very much welcome both the High Representative's visit to Gaza on 18 March as well as UN Secretary General Ban's visit on 21 March. These visits are contributing to maintain international attention on Gaza and are highlighting the difficulties faced on a daily basis by the population. I note that there has been some recent easing of restrictions by the Israeli authorities which has allowed in materials for 150 housing units, necessary work on the sewage treatment plant and on the flour mill, as well as some window glass and window and door frames. However welcome this easing of restrictions is, the only acceptable policy remains for a complete and lasting end to the blockade. I personally will continue to raise the intolerable situation in Gaza at EU and international level and to lend my support to efforts to end the blockade as soon as possible.

Human Rights Issues.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

505 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the respect for human rights and democratic principle enshrined in the EU and Israel Association Agreement is being shown by the State of Israel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12670/10]

The EU-Israel Association Agreement forms the legal basis for relations between the EU and Israel. As the Deputy has indicated, Article 2 of this Agreement states that relations between the parties, as well as all the provisions of the Agreement itself, will be based on respect for human rights and democratic principles, which guides their internal and international policy and constitutes an essential element of the Agreement. This respect for human rights is a fundamental element of the European Union's relations with all other states.

Under the provisions of the current Association Agreement, there are procedures for raising human rights concerns directly with the Israeli authorities and these are regularly evoked alongside use of more regular diplomatic channels to make EU views on human rights issues known to the Israeli authorities. It is intended that these procedures will be strengthened in the near future through establishment of a dedicated sub-committee on human rights which will examine such issues as fundamental freedoms and the rights and protection of minorities.

Within the EU, Ireland has long been among the most active Member States in ensuring that we convey our serious concerns about any breaches of international law and human rights abuses in the occupied territories to the Israeli Government at every opportunity. The EU has made it very clear to Israel particularly that settlement construction in the Occupied Territories, including East Jerusalem, is illegal under international law. The EU has repeatedly called on Israel to honour its commitments under the Road Map and other international agreements to freeze all settlement activity, including "natural growth", and to dismantle outposts built since 2001.

The EU has also repeatedly made clear its serious concerns, most recently in the Conclusions adopted by the Foreign Affairs Council last December, at the unacceptable and counter-productive blockade of Gaza, the policy of forced evictions and demolitions currently being applied in East Jerusalem, and continuing heavy restrictions on movement for Palestinians in the occupied territories. It is clear that the Israeli government must do a great deal more to improve the basic situation and living conditions on the ground for ordinary Palestinians, if the appropriate political environment is to be created for meaningful dialogue and progress towards resolution of final status issues and achievement of a negotiated two-State solution.

In addition to existing EU statements on human rights concerns in the occupied territories, Ireland has taken a strong position regarding any proposed upgrading of EU relations with Israel. I made it clear to my EU colleagues on several occasions that events since the Israeli military operation in Gaza early last year means that there cannot be a "business as usual" approach to proceeding with the upgrade. I have consistently argued that account must be taken of overall developments in the peace process before the upgrade, which was postponed in June 2009, can go ahead.

Passport Applications.

Billy Timmins

Question:

506 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding a passport application from a person (details supplied) who applied to the Irish embassy on 23 February 2010 to renew their passport; if this can be dealt with as speedily as possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12734/10]

I am pleased to confirm to the Deputy that the passport for the applicant issued on 18 March 2010.

This application was received by the Passport Service on 23 February 2010 through the regular post channel at the Passport Office in London. The Passport Office in London does not provide a service level guarantee in respect of applications received. However, in normal circumstances applications received through the post by the London Passport Office would normally be processed within twenty working days. This application was processed within this twenty working day timeframe.

Ministerial Travel.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

507 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the estimated cost in relation to foreign travel, accommodation and related Ministerial and official costs associated with St. Patrick’s day 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12819/10]

The Deputy will appreciate that, as travel has just taken place, details on foreign travel, accommodation and related Ministerial and official costs have not yet been consolidated. I will be happy to write to the Deputy providing the requested details at the earliest opportunity.

Foreign Conflicts.

Richard Bruton

Question:

508 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if Irish troops are still serving in Afghanistan, even though the United Nations mandate for the presence of troops in Afghanistan has now expired; and if he will indicate whether there are plans to bring this Irish mission to an end. [12917/10]

The United Nations mandate for the presence of troops with the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan has been renewed on an annual basis since December 2001. The current mandate was extended until 12 October 2010 by Resolution 1890 (2009) adopted by the Security Council on 8 October 2009. This Resolution not only authorised the Member States participating in ISAF to take all necessary measures to fulfil its mandate but called upon UN Member States to contribute personnel to this mission.

A contingent of seven members of the Irish Defence Forces is participating in the ISAF mission. They are based at ISAF Headquarters in Kabul in non-combatant roles. The Government intends to retain its contingent with ISAF, consistent with UN Security Council Resolutions.

Pre-clearance Facilities.

Pat Breen

Question:

509 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his meeting in the US with the Secretary of State; if he discussed the US Pre Clearance facility at Shannon Airport regarding the restrictions imposed on Part 135 Corporate Jet Operators; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12971/10]

On 16 March, I had a very useful meeting with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Washington. We discussed a broad range of foreign policy issues, including the Middle East, Afghanistan, Iran and Haiti.

Secretary Clinton was particularly interested in the situation in Northern Ireland in the wake of the historic agreement at Hillsborough last month. I thanked the Secretary for her own personal engagement, not least during the two crucial weeks leading up to the agreement at Hillsborough. I also took the opportunity to express our appreciation to Secretary Clinton for the US Administration's continued support for the peace process and for the appointment of Declan Kelly as the US Economic Envoy to Northern Ireland, whose work on the economic dimension will help sustain the political progress.

We had a very useful exchange on the issue of immigration reform and the operation of the working holiday visa agreement, which is a very important bilateral agreement in terms of maintaining engagement and linkage between young people in the U.S. and in Ireland.

We discussed the scope for cooperation on development issues and agreed that the United States and Ireland will co-host an event highlighting global hunger, food security, and nutrition on the margins of the Millennium Development Goals Summit in New York next September.

On the Middle East, I briefed the Secretary on my recent visit to Gaza and also assured her of our full support for the leadership being provided by President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton to bring the parties closer to proximity talks under the expert guidance of Senator George Mitchell.

The issue of pre-clearance at Shannon did not arise during my discussions with Secretary Clinton but my colleague the Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey T.D., has taken up this issue directly with Secretary Napolitano of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and has recently written to her on the subject.

Human Rights Issues.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

510 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied); if he will raise this case through diplomatic and European channels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12974/10].

I have recently been made aware of the case raised by the Deputy through our Embassy in Riyadh. It appears that the young woman involved has dual Indian-Canadian citizenship. She travelled to Saudi Arabia two years ago with a temporary holiday visa, sponsored by her father who is an Indian citizen resident in Saudi Arabia. Under Saudi law, the sponsor's permission is required for any foreigner who wishes to obtain an exit visa in order to leave Saudi Arabia. As I understand it, the twenty four year old's father is now refusing to grant her permission to leave the country and has confiscated both of her passports. Under Saudi law, a father maintains full legal control over the daughters in his family until that control is passed on to a husband upon marriage (reports locally indicate that there is a family dispute in relation to Ms. Quazi's marriage plans). Unfortunately it is for the Saudi authorities to issue the necessary exit visa for her to leave the country.

As the young person travelled on her Indian passport, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh has primary responsibility to assist her. I understand that she has also been in contact with the Canadian Embassy and Human Rights Watch has taken up her case with the Canadian authorities. We will continue to monitor any progress made on this case through our Embassy.

Election Monitoring.

Finian McGrath

Question:

511 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will list the persons sent abroad since 2003 to monitor elections and referenda in various parts of the world; the method and manner by which they were chosen; the changes he has planned to this selection procedure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12976/10]

International election monitoring missions have an important role to play in the promotion of human rights and democracy. We therefore aim to ensure that, when requested, Ireland is appropriately represented in international observation missions for elections and constitutional referendums. Over the past six years, Ireland has been represented in 90 election observation missions worldwide. This has involved the participation of a total of 512 Irish observers. The missions involved have primarily been organised by the European Union and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Ireland has also been represented in missions organised by the Council of Europe, the United Nations and the Carter Centre.

Through Irish Aid, the Government's aid programme, the Department of Foreign Affairs maintains a roster of volunteers for election monitoring missions. There are currently some 280 volunteers on the roster. They all have either overseas or domestic experience in the administration of elections, or have significant overseas development expertise. Their place on the roster is based on the date of their last participation in a mission.

When a request for electoral observation is received, the Department contacts suitably qualified volunteers, taking into account their place on the roster and any specific criteria for the mission, including relevant language proficiency. Following completion of the internal selection process, a draft list of nominees is submitted for Ministerial approval. The roster is updated as each mission is completed, to ensure that all registered volunteers have an opportunity to participate in a mission.

In the case of European Union election observation missions, all candidate observers must register with the European Commission as well as with Irish Aid. The final selection of observers rests with the Commission, based on an approved list submitted by Irish Aid.

I believe the selection procedure is working well, and there are no plans at present to change it. However, as with all activities supported by Irish Aid, the election observation programme is under continuous monitoring to ensure that it operates efficiently and effectively and provides the best possible value for money.

I regret that, as a consequence of industrial action, I am not in a position at this stage to provide the list of people who have participated in election monitoring missions since 2003. I will ensure that the information is provided to the Deputy as soon as this is possible.

Overseas Development Aid.

Finian McGrath

Question:

512 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will support a matter (details supplied). [13026/10]

The overarching goal of the Government's aid programme, administered by Irish Aid, is the reduction and eventual eradication of global poverty and hunger. Our partnership with development Non-Governmental Organisations represents a very important element in this effort. Irish Aid provides support directly to NGOs through a number of funding mechanisms.

The fund-raising appeal referred to by the Deputy appears to involve a charity based in Ireland which provides assistance in Pakistan. In general, Irish Aid funding to small organisations is provided through the Civil Society Fund, which supports the work of NGOs in the areas of livelihood and food security, the promotion of human rights, health, education and gender equality and the fight against HIV and AIDS.

Application forms and full details of funding under the Civil Society Fund in 2010, including eligibility criteria, will be made available by mid-April on the Irish Aid website at www.irishaid.ie .

Swimming Pool Projects.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

513 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding the proposed refurbishment of a swimming pool (details supplied) in County Cork; when he expects work will commence on this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12538/10]

Under the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme there are four principal stages in a swimming pool project following the submission of a feasibility study. These, in order of progress, are: Preliminary Report; Contract Documents; Tender and Construction.

Two proposals were submitted to my Department by Cork County Council on behalf of Dunmanway. One of the proposals was for a refurbishment of the existing pool together with an extension to accommodate additional facilities including a gym. A Preliminary Report on this proposal was approved in March 2001.

I understand that the Council expects to have Contract Documents in respect of the above project submitted to the Department for approval by October 2010.

Departmental Property.

Seán Connick

Question:

514 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of buildings his Department are renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12282/10]

The Department does not lease any buildings within the State.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

515 Deputy Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of staff in his Department, and any agency under his remit, who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12297/10]

The Department's financial management, including payment functions are outsourced to the Financial Shared Services Division of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Department does not engage in means assessment.

The number of staff in the Department (including the National Archives of Ireland) primarily employed in financial management, human resource management, procurement and ICT services are as set out as follows.

Financial Management: 9

Human Resources: 5

Procurement: 1.5

ICT services: 5.5.

Sports Funding.

Michael Creed

Question:

516 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will grant funding to sporting bodies for the provision or improvement of sporting facilities in 2010; if so, when applications for funding will be invited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12392/10]

Under the Sports Capital Programme, which is administered by my Department, and part funded from the proceeds of the National Lottery, funding is allocated to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country.

While no decision has been made on the timing of the next round of the Programme, €48 million has been provided in my Department's Vote in the 2010 Estimates to cover payments to be made from the C1 subhead, out of which grants are paid for the provision of sports and recreation facilities in respect of previously awarded grants.

Proposed Legislation.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

517 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if in respect of items 25 and 26 of annex D of budget 2009, if these actions have been completed; if not, the date by which they are expected to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12478/10]

The legislation that is required to give affect to the decision to merge the Irish Manuscripts Commission and the National Archives into the National Library of Ireland is being prepared. As stated in my recent responses to similar questions, Heads of a Bill have been drafted and transmitted to the Directors of the National Archives and of the National Library of Ireland and to the Chairman of the Irish Manuscripts Commission for their observations. I intend that the legislation will be introduced in the House this year.

As I have already indicated, in relation to the proposal to combine the Irish Museum of Modern Art, the Crawford Art Gallery and the National Gallery of Ireland while retaining separate identities, I believe that the Irish Museum of Modern Art and the National Gallery should remain stand alone entities and that the Crawford can be amalgamated with the National Gallery. I would hope to formalise this in the near future.

Ministerial Travel.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

518 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the estimated cost in relation to foreign travel, accommodation and related ministerial and official costs associated with St. Patrick’s day 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12811/10]

The estimated cost of travel associated with St Patrick's Day for my Department is €1,230 which relates to flights and expenses for three nights for the CEO of Culture Ireland who travelled to Washington to engage in the promotion of Irish Arts and Culture, on which there is a special focus this year.

Historical Records.

Joe Behan

Question:

519 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the storage location of the minutes books and other records of the former National Athletic and Cycling Association of Ireland from its formation in 1922 to its congress of 1967; if the said records can be studied by members of the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12914/10]

The Minister has no statutory function in relation to the records of private voluntary bodies. However, the Deputy might contact the Athletics Association of Ireland which is the governing body for athletics formed following the dissolution of the NACA and Bord Luthchleas na h-Éireann and which would be in a position to advise in relation to the issues raised. The Association can be contacted at Unit 19, Northwood Court, Northwood Business Campus, Santry, Dublin 9, Ph; 8869933 email admin@athleticsireland.ie.

Tourism Promotion.

Deirdre Clune

Question:

520 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the support grants that are available to a person setting up a company that will run tours of historic areas in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13042/10]

Deirdre Clune

Question:

521 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the grants and supports available for start-up companies in the tourism sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13043/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 520 and 521 together.

Under section 8 of the National Tourism Development Authority Act 2003 it is a function of Fáilte Ireland to support the development of tourism enterprises in the State. I have no statutory function in relation to the administration of supports or the award of grants or assistance to tourism enterprises.

Details of the grants and supports available to new and established tourism businesses are easily accessible on Fáilte Ireland's website at www.failteireland.ie. Those supports include:

Capital grants for physical tourism attractions;

Various non-capital grants to assist individual businesses and trade groups with the marketing of their products;

The Mid-Shannon Corridor Scheme;

Grants towards the funding of Festivals and Cultural Events; and

The Business Expansion and Seed Capital Scheme.

Aside from these grant programmes, Fáilte Ireland provides a range of other supports to tourism businesses. These include:

A range of interactive tools on topics relevant to businesses;

An e-business support initiative;

Business Mentoring;

Employment Law Compliance;

Business promotion through a variety of promotional events; and

Resources and guides related to the area of marketing and publicity.

Beyond the direct funding allocation to tourism, there are also additional funds and programmes available from other agencies and Departments, all of which can have a role in the development of tourism businesses.

Qualification for all or any of these grants and supports will depend on the individual characteristics of each business. In that regard, every Fáilte Ireland regional office has a Business Development Officer whose role is to guide and provide assistance to entrepreneurs in accessing all programmes that are relevant to their business. The Business Development Officer supports enterprises to help ensure that each individual business is fit for purpose and best equipped to meet the challenges in today's environment.

Rail Network.

Joe Carey

Question:

522 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the supports he will provide to facilitate the opening of a rail stop at Crusheen, County Clare on the new western rail corridor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12220/10]

I am aware that Irish Rail has made a proposal with regard to the development of a railway station at Crusheen, County Clare, on the Western Rail Corridor.

My Department has already supported the development of the Western Rail Corridor as part of Transport 21 and I am currently examining the latest proposal regarding Crusheen. My officials are in contact with Iarnród Éireann and a decision in this regard will be made in due course, subject to resources.

Departmental Property.

Seán Connick

Question:

523 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of buildings his Department is renting within the State; the costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12284/10]

My Department does not pay rent in respect of properties occupied by its staff. That function, and all matters relating to the acquisition and leasing of property, are the responsibility of the Office of Public Works (OPW).

However, I can confirm to the Deputy that 7 properties are being leased on my Department's behalf by the OPW. These comprise:

my Department's headquarters building in Dublin;

two properties in Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo, in which staff relocated under the Decentralisation Programme are being accommodated on an interim basis;

two local offices in Gaoth Dobhair, Co. Donegal, and Acaill, Co. Mayo from Údarás na Gaeltachta; and

two warehousing facilities in Finglas, Dublin, and Tullamore, Co. Offaly.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

524 Deputy Bruton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of staff in his Department and any agency under its remit who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12299/10]

I am arranging to have the information requested by the Deputy regarding the number of staff primarily employed, in each of the areas referred to, in my Department or in bodies/agencies funded from my Department's Vote Group, forwarded directly to him.

Inland Waterways.

Jack Wall

Question:

525 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the grants or sponsorship granted by Waterways Ireland in each of the past three years; the areas and groups that received such funding; if such funding is to be made available in 2010; if so, the mechanism available to groups to apply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12386/10]

Waterways Ireland operates a sponsorship programme with the aim of promoting recreation and increasing the number of people using the inland waterways under its remit.

I am informed that the call for applications to the 2010 sponsorship programme is now closed. The deadline for receipt of sponsorship applications was 17 December 2009. The programme was advertised in the local and national media in September 2009. Over 100 applications were received and I am advised that the assessment process is now almost complete.

The sponsorship programme has been very successful to date in attracting new users to the waterways and showcasing what the waterways have to offer.

Details of sponsorship funding in 2007, 2008 and 2009 are set out in the Table. Sponsorship amounts paid in sterling in Northern Ireland are shown as the equivalent euro amount.

2007

Sponsorship

Waterways Ireland Head of the River

1,028

WI Meridian Barefoot Waterski Challenge

3,631

Irish International Currach Championships

2,822

Irish Long Distance Swimming Championships

590

WI Erne World open Pike Fishing Classic

7,185

Autumn on Lough Erne

2,503

Portora Regatta

2,874

Waterways Ireland Schools League

1,653

Gig ’n’ the Bann Festival

1,221

Crom Medieval Affair

1,006

Tullamore Phoenix

1,500

Lough Key Triathlon

2,000

Royal Canal Western Rally

1,000

Royal Canal Mullingar Rally

1,000

Year of the Barrow

4,000

Carlow Regatta

1,000

Iniscealtra Arts Festival

2,000

IARU Row for it League

3,600

IARU Row for it League

5,400

Garadice Gamble

400

Castleconnell Sprint

1,000

Athy Water Festival

1,500

Limerick Regatta

1,000

Waterford & District Coarse Angling Competition

1,000

Boatman’s Reunion

1,995

An tSuca Fiáin

2,000

Royal Enfield Fishing

1,750

Athlone Regatta

1,000

Lough Ree Environmental Summer School

3,000

Grand Canal Offaly Voyage

8,000

Garadice Lake Triathlon

2,500

Carrick Water Music Festival

3,500

Royal Canal Western Rally

1,000

12th Lock Fishing Competition

3,400

Shannonbridge Midsummer Festival

4,000

Daingean Festival

3,000

Carrick on Shannon Regatta

1,000

Bagenalstown Festival

4,000

Graiguenamanagh River Festival

2,000

93,060

2008

Sponsorship

Tasting Sessions

1,000

Outrowers Ireland

3,000

Iniscealtra Arts Festival

2,000

Bann Head of the River

700

IARU Row for It

17,900

Crom Living History / Have a Go

631

Waterways Ireland MacGregor Rally

2,000

Irish Long Distance Swimming

499

Erne World Pike Fishing

6,358

Erne Junior Pike Fishing

1,300

Schools Angling League

1,464

Boatmans Reunion

1,987

Lisnaskea Water Festival

3,783

An tSuca Fiáin

2,000

Lough Ree Environmental Summer School

2,000

Grand Canal Offaly Voyage

8,000

Shannonbridge Music Festival

3,000

Daingean Festival

2,000

Fermanagh Arts Festival

5,087

Waterways Ireland Pike Challenge

7,000

Gransha Youth Club for Water

873

72,584

2009

Sponsorship

The Bagenalstown Festival

2,500

Graiguenamanagh River Festival

2,000

Rowing for Life

500

All Ireland Championship

1,000

NCFFI Senior Canal Championship

1,000

NCFFI Junior Canal Championship

750

2nd Annual Irish Gay Rowing Competition

2,250

Iniscealtra Festival of Arts

750

St Michael’s Head of the River

700

Erne Head of River

700

Portora Regatta

1,000

Carlow Regatta

1,750

Castleconnell Sprint Regatta

1,000

Carrick on Shannon Sprint Regatta

1,750

Athlone Regatta

1,000

Waterways Row4lt League

6,000

Waterways Ireland Erne World Pike Fishing Classic

4,912

Irish Long Distance Swimming Championship

348

Waterways Junior Classic

1,168

Waterways Ireland Erne Junior Pike Fishing Classic

1,168

Boatmen’s Reunion

5,000

Lisnaskea Water Festival

4,066

An tSuca Fiáin

1,500

Royal Enfield International Fishing Festival

500

Lough Ree Water Festival

3,500

Canal Fishing Daingean

500

The Daingean Festival

1,500

The Barrow Wildwater Race

1,350

Past V Present Anglers

150

The 23rd Kildare Sallins Raft Race

500

King of the Barrow

400

Edenderry Canal Festival

250

Waterways Extravaganza

1,637

TriAthy 2009

5,000

Lady of the Erne

3,500

Lucan Fishing Competition

2,800

Sponsorship support for Ulster Canal

4,006

68,407

National Drugs Strategy.

Catherine Byrne

Question:

526 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of projects and groups that received funding from his Department for drugs initiatives in 2009; the amount of these projects and groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12409/10]

The information requested by the Deputy is being collated by officials in my Department. I will arrange to forward the relevant information directly to the Deputy.

Rural Development.

Joe Carey

Question:

527 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding the village renewal and development scheme of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013; the qualifying criteria for this scheme; the procedure for applying; the work which can be carried out under this scheme; the budget and the length of time for which it is intended that the scheme will be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12620/10]

Over the lifetime of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 (RDP), funding of €54.2m is available under the Village Renewal and Development Measure. Actions under this Measure are aimed at enhancing the environmental, amenity and surface structural aspects of communities and they complement other Axis 3 measures, particularly those targeting tourism and conservation of the local heritage. All actions under this Measure involving public areas must be agreed with the relevant local authority.

Eligible activities under this Measure include:

Environmental upgrading (such as upgrading parks, civic areas, river walks, etc);

Access facilities to amenities;

Public utilities such as street lighting (but excluding water, sewage and major road works);

General appearance upgrading (such as ornamental paving, street art, ornamental lighting, etc) and renovation of relevant derelict buildings (excluding traditional farm buildings, which will be eligible for support under Axis 2); and

Farmers' markets.

Both individuals/private companies and community groups are eligible to apply for funding under this Measure. Individuals/private companies are eligible for 50% support with a maximum grant of up to €150,000 (with the exception of "Analysis and Development" work, which may receive 75% support with a maximum grant of €30,000). In exceptional circumstances, and subject to the prior written approval of my Department, grant aid of up to €200,000 may be awarded to projects.

Community organisations are eligible for grant aid of up to 75% with a maximum grant of up to €150,000 (with the exception of "Analysis and Development" work, which may receive 90% support with a maximum grant of €30,000). In exceptional circumstances, and subject to the prior written approval of my Department, grant aid of up to €500,000 is available to non-commercial community projects.

A number of Local Action Groups (LAGs) have been contracted by my Department to deliver the RDP. In this context, my Department has issued a set of operating rules to each group, based on the EU Regulations which govern the programme.

In line with the bottom-up nature of the RDP, the Deputy should note that the LAG is the principal decision-maker in relation to the allocation of project funding to individual applicants. Funding decisions are made by the LAG, following extensive evaluation and approval processes in the context of its local strategy and in line with the operating rules and EU Regulations. To date, expenditure of some €796,000 has been registered under this Measure and a further €1.5m of project commitments is in train.

Groups or individuals interested in applying for funding under the RDP should contact their local LAG for further information.

Ministerial Travel.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

528 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the estimated cost of foreign travel, accommodation and related ministerial and official costs associated with St. Patrick’s day 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12813/10]

The table sets out the estimated costs incurred during my official visit to Poznan, Warsaw and Vienna for St Patrick's Day 2010. I must stress that the details provided are provisional as the Deputy will appreciate that definitive costs cannot be confirmed until the final invoices are received in respect of this visit.

Expense

Minister Ó Cuív

Private Secretary

Flights

662.28

662.28

Transport Costs (train fare from Warsaw to Poznan)

32.96

32.96

Accommodation

692.84

659.10

Travel and Subsistence

881.76

674.14

Total

2,269.84

2,028.48

The following table sets out the estimated costs incurred during the official visit of Mr John Curran, T.D., Minister of State at my Department, to Birmingham and London for St Patrick's Day 2010. As above, the definitive costs have yet to be finalised. With regard to the transportation costs of £97, it may be noted that this arose in the context of the necessary transportation being provided by the Irish Embassy in London. The amount related to overnight costs for the Embassy driver and represented a substantial saving in comparison to the cost of using a hired car.

Expense

Minister Curran

Private Secretary

Flights

€326.66

€314.66

Travel and Subsistence

€511.09

€399.20

Accommodation

£698.00

£698.00

Transport Costs

£97.00

Proposed Legislation.

Finian McGrath

Question:

529 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding his proposals to deal with head shops. [13053/10]

I have voiced my concerns in regard to the activities of headshops and substances represented as "legal highs" sold in these outlets on numerous occasions since my appointment as Minister of State with responsibility for the National Drugs Strategy.

I am arranging to forward a statement of the current position with regard to headshops directly to the Deputy.

Social Insurance Fund.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

530 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 1% increase in employer’s PRSI. [12197/10]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

531 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 1% increase in employees PRSI. [12198/10]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

532 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the estimated yield to the Exchequer in a full year of a 1% increase in PRSI for the self employed. [12199/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

533 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the estimated yield from abolishing the employee’s PRSI ceiling; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12346/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 530 to 533, inclusive, together.

PRSI receipts do not form part of Exchequer funding but are paid into the Social Insurance Fund. The most recent estimates for PRSI yields are set out in the following table.

Changes to PRSI Rates & Thresholds

Yield

€m

1% increase in Employers higher PRSI rate

423.0

1% increase in Employers lower PRSI rate

59.0

1% increase in the Self-Employed PRSI rate

108.0

1% increase in Employees PRSI rate

373.0

Abolition of the PRSI ceiling

119.5

Human Rights Issues.

Jack Wall

Question:

534 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position in relation to a court decision in respect of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12709/10]

In the court case referred to by the Deputy, the High Court found that the Irish State is in breach of the European Convention on Human Rights in not having a process and a register to legally recognise the acquired gender of transsexual persons. The judgment, however, allows the State a degree of latitude in the design of mechanisms to give such legal recognition.

The Renewed Programme for Government which was published in October 2009 contained a commitment to introduce legal recognition of the acquired gender of transsexuals. Accordingly, the appeal to the Supreme Court is not being pursued and an interdepartmental committee is currently being established to consider all of the issues involved.

The committee will commence its deliberations within the next few weeks.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Denis Naughten

Question:

535 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a masters course is eligible for the back to education allowance; if this will extend to a research masters; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12757/10]

The objective of the back to education allowance scheme is to equip people on social welfare payments with qualifications that will enable them to obtain employment in the labour market. The scheme covers courses of education from second level to Higher Diploma level in any discipline [level 8 in the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)] and to a Graduate Diploma in Education (Primary and Secondary Teaching; level 9 in NFQ) which add significantly to a person's employability. Other postgraduate qualifications such as a Master's (level 9) or Doctoral degrees (level 10) are not included.

A small number of cases have arisen where a college has granted an exemption from the requirement to hold a primary degree and has admitted a person to a Master's course on the basis of relevant life experience. In the context of the ongoing review of the operation of the scheme, it was decided to extend entitlement to back to education allowance in these instances on an exceptional basis.

The nature and structure of the scheme will continue to be monitored in the context of the objectives of the scheme and changes in the economic climate.

Proposed Legislation.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

536 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will use the Civil Partnership Bill 2009 as an opportunity to amend the Civil Registration Act 2004 to allow for the registration here of Irish citizens who have died abroad. [13064/10]

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

537 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will consider amending the Civil Registrations Act 2004 to allow for the registration of the deaths of Irish citizens abroad in view of the recent situation involving the death of an Irish person in Chicago, USA. [13309/10]

Denis Naughten

Question:

606 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs her plans to amend the Civil Registration Act 2004; if she will amend this act to allow for the registration of the deaths of Irish citizens who die abroad; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13050/10]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

607 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reasons the death of an Irish citizen and Irish resident while that person is abroad is not registered here; and the steps she will take to rectify this position in view of the additional grief that this causes to families and the practical difficulties that are caused in terms of arranging the deceased person’s affairs without an Irish death certificate. [13079/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 536, 537, 606 and 607 together.

The provisions and procedures governing the registration of deaths in Ireland are contained in Part 5 of the Civil Registration Act 2004 and these are as follows: Where a death occurs in the State it is the duty of a qualified informant (normally a relative of the deceased) to attend at a registrar's office and register the death on foot of a certificate of cause of death supplied by a registered medical practitioner. Where a death is referred to a coroner, the death is registered by a registrar on foot of a coroner's certificate.

In general, only deaths which occur within the State are registerable. Exceptions apply under the provisions of section 39 of the Act, concerning:

Deaths of members of the Garda Síochána or the Permanent Defence Force or of the spouse or specified members of the family of such member, outside the State while the member is serving outside the State as such member,

Deaths of persons on board an Irish aircraft or Irish ship,

Deaths of Irish citizens on board a foreign ship or a foreign aircraft travelling to or from a port, or an airport, as the case may be, in the State.

Where the death of an Irish citizen domiciled in the State occurs abroad, the death may be registered here if there was not at the time of the death a system of registration of deaths in the place where the death occurred, or such a system that applied to such a death, or it is not possible to obtain copies of or extracts from civil records of the death ie. a death certificate. Although the number of such cases is extremely small, it is considered reasonable to make provision for them.

Usually, when an Irish citizen dies abroad, the death is registered by the civil authorities of the place where the death occurred, and a certified copy of the death registration is obtainable. This certificate, translated, if necessary, is normally sufficient for all legal and administrative purposes here and there is therefore no necessity for the death to be registered in the State.

The reasoning behind these provisions is simply to ensure that where deaths cannot be registered abroad, they can be registered here and that in all cases the relatives of the deceased have available to them a certificate of the death for personal, legal and administrative purposes.

Any broadening of these provisions will require careful consideration particularly in view of the large numbers of people who live in other countries and who have or are entitled to have Irish citizenship. However, this matter will be reviewed in the context of future amendments to the Civil Registration Act 2004.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

538 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when disability allowance will be re-instated in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12222/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

539 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a dependancy payment will be added to the jobseeker’s benefit payment in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12228/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Terence Flanagan

Question:

540 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 13. [12239/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Finian McGrath

Question:

541 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [12264/10]

Due to the staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Departmental Properties.

Seán Connick

Question:

542 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of buildings her Department is renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12293/10]

The Office of Public Works is responsible for most rented properties occupied by the Department and I understand that arrangements are being made to provide the information sought by the Deputy through the Minister for Finance (PQ 12289/10).

In the case of three properties, however, the Department is directly responsible for the rental arrangements but due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy at this time.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

543 Deputy Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of staff in her Department and any agency under its remit who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12307/10]

The table details the number of posts in the Department, and in the agencies under the aegis of the Department, as at February 2010, that are primarily occupied in the functions concerned.

Posts occupied in the Department at February 2010

Primary Function

Department

Payroll

24.25

Financial Management

68.20

Human Resource Management (including Staff Training Unit)

89.50

ICT Services including Procurement

230.25

Means assessment

407.30

The staff detailed above as primarily employed on means assessment are the staff in the Department's Inspectorate. However, while means assessment constitutes a significant element of their work, their duties also include the combating of fraud and abuse of all the Department's schemes and reviews of means tested payments to ensure the conditions regarding entitlement continue to be satisfied.

In addition, other staff carry out some means assessment as part of a wide range of duties involved in dealing with claims. But means assessment on its own is their primary function.

Posts occupied in the agencies under the remit of the Department

Primary Function

Pensions Board

Family Support Agency

Citizens Information Board

Payroll + Financial Mgt

2.00

3

3.0

Human Resource Management

1.25

2

2.5

ICT Services

2.00

0

6.5

Means assessment

0.00

0

0.0

Procurement

0.25

0

0.0

Social Welfare Benefits.

Finian McGrath

Question:

544 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [12316/10]

Due to the staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Pension Provisions.

Finian McGrath

Question:

545 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will support a pension issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [12325/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

546 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of young people aged 18 and 19 years in receipt of the reduced rate of jobseeker’s allowance and basic supplementary allowance of €100 per week which was introduced in May 2009, on a monthly and county basis in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12329/10]

Arthur Morgan

Question:

547 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of young people aged 20 and 21 years in receipt of the reduced jobseeker’s allowance and basic supplement allowance of €100 per week which was introduced in Budget 2010 on a monthly and county basis in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12330/10]

Arthur Morgan

Question:

548 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of young people aged 22, 23 and 24 years in receipt of the reduced rate of jobseeker’s allowance and basic supplementary allowance of €150 per week which was introduced in Budget 2010, on a monthly and county basis in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12331/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 546 to 548, inclusive, together.

Due to the staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to supply the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Insurance.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

549 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons who applied for jobseeker’s benefit in 2007, 2008 and 2009 who were refused in view of the fact that they had not made sufficient PRSI contributions; the number of these persons who were class S contributors; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12333/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

550 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons who applied for jobseeker’s allowance in 2007, 2008 and 2009 who were refused as they failed the means test; the number of these persons who were class S contributors; the number who failed the means test in view of the fact that they had an income earning spouse; the number who failed as they had assets. [12334/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 549 and 550 together.

Due to staff action I regret that I am unable to supply the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

551 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Dublin is being deducted three days of their jobseeker’s benefit after completing a community employment scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12335/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

552 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when social welfare payment will be awarded in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12367/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Enda Kenny

Question:

553 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a decision will be made regarding an application for carer’s allowance in respect of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12375/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Michael Ring

Question:

554 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved and awarded jobseeker’s benefit. [12379/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Joe McHugh

Question:

555 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the supports that are available to sufferers of diffuse idiopathic hyperostosis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12381/10]

Diffuse idiopathic hyperostosis is a type of arthritis characterised by calcification along the sides of the vertebrae. The Department does not operate any income support scheme specifically aimed at persons who have that or any other particular illness. A range of income support payments is provided for people who are ill or have a disability. These include the insurance based schemes Illness Benefit and Invalidity Pension and the means-tested Disability Allowance. Detailed information on these schemes and other supports provided by the Department are available on the website www.welfare.ie or via the Department's network of Local Offices.

Thomas Byrne

Question:

556 Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the circumstances under which fuel allowance may be awarded to a person on a year round basis. [12391/10]

The national fuel allowance scheme assists householders on long-term social welfare or health service executive (HSE) payments with meeting the cost of their heating needs during the winter season. The allowance represents a contribution towards a person's normal heating expenses. It is not intended to meet those costs in full. Fuel allowance is payable for 32 weeks a year. The standard allowance is €20 a week while the rate in smokeless zones is €23.90 a week. The scheme benefits almost 318,000 people a year at an estimated cost of €217 million in 2009.

Under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which is administered on behalf of the Department by the community welfare service of the Health Service Executive, a special heating supplement may be paid to assist people in certain circumstances that have special heating needs e.g. in the case of ill health, infirmity or a medical condition. In order to qualify for a heating supplement, the claimant must live alone or only with a qualified adult or child and satisfy the standard means test for receipt of Supplementary Welfare Allowance. The heating supplement may be paid to an individual in addition to a fuel allowance, depending on the circumstances of the individual.

Applications for heating supplement should be made to the appropriate community welfare officer who will examine the person's entitlement based on his or her personal circumstances.

Joe McHugh

Question:

557 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the rental entitlements and rental support entitlements of a person in receipt of social welfare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12394/10]

The rent supplement scheme provides short-term support to eligible people living in private rented accommodation whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation costs and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source.

The rent supplement scheme is administered on behalf of the Department by the Community Welfare Service Division of the Health Service Executive as part of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme. There are over 94,000 people in receipt of rent supplement of which over 34,000 are getting a supplement for 18 months or more. The number of rent supplement recipients has increased by 27% since the end of December 2008.

A person may be eligible for rent supplement if the accommodation is suitable to their needs, the rent is below the maximum rent level set for your county and the person is assessed in the last 12 months by a local authority as being eligible for and in need of social housing; living in accommodation for homeless people for 6 months (183 days) out of the last 12 months; living in private rented accommodation for 6 months (183 days) out of the last 12 months; or a tenant of accommodation provided under one of the Social Housing Schemes and the person satisfies a habitual residence test and a means test.

Under standard assessment rules, rent supplement entitlement is calculated to ensure that an eligible person, after the payment of rent, has an income equal to the rate of basic supplementary welfare allowance appropriate to his or her their family circumstances, less a minimum contribution of €24, which each recipient is required to pay from his or her own resources. The rent supplement means test provides for a gradual withdrawal of the supplement as hours of employment or earnings increase. Where a person has additional income in excess of the standard weekly rate of supplementary welfare allowance, the first €75 of this excess is disregarded, with 25% of remaining excess s also disregarded for means assessment purposes.

Applications for rent supplement should be made to the appropriate local community welfare officers who will examine the person's entitlement based on his or her personal circumstances.

Departmental Records.

Martin Ferris

Question:

558 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if it is the practice of the Department of Social and Family Affairs and post offices to retain receipts from pensioners and other social welfare recipients; if so, the length of time they are held for; and if a person is entitled to get a copy of an old receipt. [12401/10]

An Post issue Electronic Information Transfer (EIT) payments an behalf of my Department in respect of various Social Welfare schemes. Customers who collect their EIT payments at automated Post Offices are given a tally roll printout at the Post Office counter as a receipt showing details of the payment being claimed and they are requested to sign the tally roll printout acknowledging receipt of the amount indicated. The under copy of the tally roll printout is handed to the claimant with the cash. An Post retain the top copy bearing the claimants signature at a central location for fifteen months after which they are destroyed.

Customers who collect their EIT payments at non automated An Post outlets are given a Postdraft at the counter showing details of the benefit being claimed and they are requested to sign the Postdraft acknowledging receipt of the amount indicated. A tear off portion of the Postdraft with details of the payment printed thereon is also supplied to the customer. As with the tally roll printouts, paid Postdrafts bearing the customers signature are retained at a central location for a fifteen month period after which they are destroyed. The receipts outlined above are not retained by the Department. However, officials from my Department obtain copies of receipts from An Post from time to time in the course of their duties.

If the Deputy is aware of a person who wishes to obtain a copy of their receipt, s/he should contact the relevant business area of the Department dealing with their social welfare claim. The necessary arrangements can be made to obtain a copy of their receipt, provided it is within the fifteen month period following the payment.

Child Support.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

559 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when child benefit payment will be restored in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12402/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Fraud.

Tom Hayes

Question:

560 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of staff in her Department that are employed to investigate social welfare fraud; the number that have been employed in this capacity every year since 2000; the number of prosecutions for social welfare fraud made every year since 2000; and the estimated amount her Department has lost in revenue through social welfare fraud from 200 to date in 2010. [12412/10]

There are over 620 staff working in areas related to control of fraud and abuse of the welfare system. As part of its control strategy the Department carries out detailed fraud & error surveys on individual schemes which provide evidence-based indicators of the levels of fraud & error for those schemes at that particular time. The level of fraud on most schemes is very low. The percentage of expenditure resulting from fraud identified in the Department's Fraud and Error surveys ranged from 0% for pensioners, to 0.1% for Illness Benefit, 0.8% for the Family Income Supplement, 1.8% for Child Benefit, 2.3% for the Disability Allowance and 6.4% for the One Parent Family Payment.

In relation to savings in 2009, the Department recorded control savings of nearly €484m. It must be noted that control activity was being focused on prevention of fraud and error at claim application stage. Savings made from the detection of bogus claims at application stage are not included in the Departments overall savings as the claim will not go into payment. However, this is the most cost effective mechanism of reducing losses through fraud and error in social welfare schemes. The number of criminal prosecutions in relation to social welfare fraud finalised in court for years 2000 to end February 2010 is set out in the tabular statement:

Criminal Prosecutions 2009 to end February 2010

Year

Criminal cases finalised in court

2000

199

2001

199

2002

168

2003

209

2004

273

2005

269

2006

266

2007

239

2008

324

2009

354

2010 (end Feb)

67

I regret that I am unable to provide the historical information sought by the Deputy in relation to staff numbers involved in control work since 2000.

Pension Provisions.

Joan Burton

Question:

561 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the legal position of the estate of an annuity holder upon that annuity holder’s death; if the full outstanding value of the of the annuity accrues to the estate; if not, the reason for same; the way the framework for annuity holders here differs in this respect from those pertaining in other countries; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12424/10]

The Pensions Act, 1990 as amended, provides for the regulation of supplementary pension schemes. An annuity is a financial product which provides for the payment of a pension for a set period or for life and is not regulated by the Pensions Act. The regulation of annuities is a matter for the Minister for Finance.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

562 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when rent support will be awarded in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12437/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Willie Penrose

Question:

563 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will expedite an application for jobseeker’s allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath which has been submitted for many months now and is awaiting a decision in respect thereof; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12441/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

564 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reasons money awarded in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 1 were reduced by almost 50%. [12445/10]

Due to the staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Jack Wall

Question:

565 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if her Department received an application for a bereavement grant in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12449/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Jack Wall

Question:

566 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position regarding an application for jobseeker’s benefit in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12453/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Phil Hogan

Question:

567 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a free household package was withdrawn from a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12493/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Appeals.

Finian McGrath

Question:

568 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [12520/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Budgetary Policy.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

569 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will publish the analysis of the impact of the social welfare and other measures proposed in the report of the special group on public service numbers and expenditure programmes on families, which was prepared by the social inclusion division of her Department in advance of budget 2010. [12522/10]

The analysis of the impact on families of the welfare and related measures proposed in the report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure (McCarthy Report) was prepared by the Social Inclusion Division of the Department of Social and Family Affairs, at the request of the Minister and in the context of the preparations for Budget 2010. The analysis informed the deliberative process on the welfare package presented in Budget 2010. The analysis continues to be relevant to the ongoing development of budgetary policy on welfare related measures at this time. It remains part of the deliberative process of Government and it is not proposed to publish it at this time.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

570 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when one-parent family allowance will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12568/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

571 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when child benefit will be reinstated in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12569/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

572 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12570/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

573 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow qualifies for social welfare credits in the context of an old age pension application and who is currently in receipt of disability benefit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12571/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Appeals.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

574 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position regarding an invalidity appeal in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12572/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

575 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when family income supplement will be reinstated in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12573/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

576 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when domiciliary care allowance will be awarded in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12574/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret I am unable to provide the information requested by the Deputy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

577 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when carer’s benefit will be awarded in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12575/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Terence Flanagan

Question:

578 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 13; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12600/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Pension Provisions.

Joan Burton

Question:

579 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position regarding the Bord na Móna staff pension fund; the process for establishing transfer values of the pension rights of individual staff members; the deduction that is applied to such transfer values; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12609/10]

Joan Burton

Question:

583 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the financial position of the staff pension scheme at Bord na Móna; the process and formula for calculating the transfer value of individuals’ pension rights from this scheme; the deduction that is being applied to the normal transfer value payable; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12654/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 579 and 583 together.

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

580 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs from where the money necessary for the proposed once-off bonus payment relating to auto-enrolment pensions, as described by the recently launched national pensions framework, will come. [12624/10]

The recently published National Pensions Framework is the Government's plan for future pension reform. It encompasses all aspects of pensions, from social welfare to private occupational pensions and public sector pension reform. Development of the framework was informed by the range of views raised during the comprehensive consultation process which followed publication of the Green Paper on Pensions. The aim of the framework is to deliver security, equity, choice and clarity for the individual, the employer and the State. It also aims to increase pension coverage, particularly among low to middle income groups and to ensure that state support for pensions is equitable and sustainable.

At present only 50% of workers have a private pension, with low levels of coverage among moderate to middle incomes a particular concern. While the State Pension is expected to provide sufficient retirement income for the lowest paid workers, most people will have a significant income gap if they do not have some extra private pension provision. Inertia and procrastination are among the main reasons for not taking out a pension. A key element of the framework is the introduction of a new auto-enrolment system which provides a way of overcoming this problem.

Employees earning above a certain income threshold will be automatically enrolled into this new scheme, with the employee, their employer and the State all making contributions. Those employees already in a more favourable occupational pension scheme will not be enrolled.

For those who are included in the scheme, contributions will only be paid on earnings above a certain minimum level and below a certain maximum. The level of these thresholds will be decided closer to the implementation date and they will be set in such a way as to ensure that the scheme focuses on those on low and middle incomes.

Within these thresholds, the employee will pay 4% of their salary, with this being topped up by 2% from their employer and a further 2% by the State. The State's contribution will therefore be equivalent to 33% tax relief. The same 33% State contribution will apply to existing occupational and personal pension schemes and will replace the current system of tax relief at the standard and higher rates. This will represent a major increase in State support for the pensions of lower paid workers.

Employees will be able to opt out of the scheme after a period of 3 months. While they will be automatically re-enrolled every 2 years, they can opt out again if they wish. As an additional incentive to encourage people to remain in the scheme, the Government has decided that a once-off bonus payment will be paid, to people who stay in the scheme for 5 years without a break in contributions.

An implementation group is being established to develop the legislation, regulatory and administrative infrastructure required to introduce the auto-enrolment scheme, including in relation to the once off payment, and the other elements of the framework. We expect the implementation phase to take three to five years to complete. It is intended that the auto-enrolment scheme will be introduced in 2014 but the Government will review the introduction date depending on the prevailing economic conditions closer to the time.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

581 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a child benefit application will be processed submitted to her Department in November 2009 in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Offaly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12627/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Michael Noonan

Question:

582 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the steps he will take to honour commitments made to farm spouses in respect of contributory old age pension; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12639/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Question No. 583 answered with Question No. 579.

Social Welfare Code.

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

584 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if the details of a person (details supplied) will be permanently updated on her Department’s database. [12661/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Willie Penrose

Question:

585 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason jobseeker’s allowance has not been awarded in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath, in view of the fact that it was lodged on 5 August 2009; if she will take steps to have same expedited; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12674/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Willie Penrose

Question:

586 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will take steps to have an application for carer’s allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath dealt with; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12675/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

587 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a decision will be made on an application for farm assist in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12682/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Frank Feighan

Question:

588 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position regarding an application for lone parent’s allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon. [12713/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Code.

Frank Feighan

Question:

589 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) can backdate their PRSI contributions. [12715/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Pat Breen

Question:

590 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when an application for jobseeker’s allowance will be processed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12716/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Pat Breen

Question:

591 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when an application for invalidity pension will be processed for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12719/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Child Support.

Michael Ring

Question:

592 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a child benefit review form has issued on four occasions this year to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [12723/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Appeals.

Michael Ring

Question:

593 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a medical assessment can be arranged in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in relation to their appeal for disability allowance. [12726/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

594 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs her views on the impact of her proposal to remove the lone parent payment from parents and guardians of children over 13 years on the number of children living in poverty; and the size of the likely increase in the number of children in poverty which in 2008 figures stood at 17.4%. [12753/10]

There are currently just under 90,000 lone parents in receipt of the One-Parent Family Payment (OFP) at an estimated cost in 2009 of €1,113 million. When other related supports and entitlements are taken into account, including Child Benefit and, where appropriate, the Rent Supplement and the Family Income Supplement, total expenditure in this area exceeds €2 billion.

Despite this significant State spending on one-parent families as well as improvements made to the One Parent Family Payment over the years, the results have been poor in terms of tackling poverty and social exclusion and of encouraging economic independence. A large proportion of lone parents and their children continue to experience poverty.

The Government believes that the current arrangements, whereby a lone parent can receive the One-Parent Family Payment until their child is 18 — or 22 if in full-time education — without any requirement for them to engage in employment, education or training, are not in the best interests of the recipient, their children or society.

In general, the best route out of poverty is through paid employment. It is recognised that work, and especially full-time work, may not be an option for parents of young children. However, it is believed that supporting parents to participate in the labour market, once their children have reached an appropriate age, will improve both their own economic situation and the social well-being of themselves and their families.

My Department has undertaken a comprehensive review of the One-Parent Family Payment and developed proposals that are designed to: prevent long-term dependence on welfare and facilitate financial independence; recognise parental choice with regard to care of young children but with the expectation that parents will not remain outside of the labour force indefinitely, and include an expectation of participation in education, training and employment, with supports provided in this regard.

To meet these social policy objectives, the Government is considering various options for limiting the length of time for which the One-Parent Family Payment can be paid (including the age of the youngest child). Any such changes would be phased in over a number of years for existing recipients to enable lone parents to access education and training and to prepare them for their return to the labour market.

The changes will also bring Ireland's support for lone parents more into line with international provisions, where there is a general movement away from long-term and passive income support. The EU countries achieving the best outcomes in terms of tackling child poverty are those that are combining strategies aimed at facilitating access to employment and enabling services (e.g. child care) with income support.

The Government is conscious that many lone parents will need access to education, training and activation measures in order to acquire the skills they will need to gain employment. My Department has been working closely with other agencies to ensure that the broader needs of lone parent families are met and that the changes to the One-Parent Family Payment that are currently being finalised will be progressed in that context.

Family Support Services.

Michael Ring

Question:

595 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved family income supplement. [12760/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

596 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the way the back to education grant allowance can be considered as a duplicate payment along with the maintenance grant; and the financial support that is available for social welfare recipients in returning to education. [12764/10]

The objective of the back to work education allowance is to equip people on social welfare payments with qualifications that will enable them to obtain employment in the labour market. The scheme is a second chance educational opportunities scheme for people on welfare payments who wish to participate in full-time education and who would not otherwise be able to do so. Participation is open to recipients of a range of welfare payments, including Jobseekers, One Parent Family, Disability, Illness and Caring schemes.

The back to education allowance is paid at a standard weekly rate equivalent to the maximum rate of the social welfare payment that qualifies the applicant for the scheme. It is not means-tested and income from part-time work while on the back to education allowance does not affect the basic payment. In addition, an annual cost of education allowance of €500 is payable.

The back to education allowance has an important role to play in enhancing the employability skills of jobseekers. The nature and structure of the scheme will continue to be monitored in the context of the objectives of the scheme and changes in the economic climate.

My colleague, the Minister for Education and Science, deals with the student maintenance grant schemes.

Martin Ferris

Question:

597 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason there has been a delay in the payment of child benefit in respect of a person (details supplied); and if this matter will be expedited. [12766/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Ministerial Travel.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

598 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the estimated cost in relation to foreign travel, accommodation and related ministerial and official costs associated with St. Patrick’s day 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12822/10]

The cost to my Department for airfares for my official visit to Philadelphia for St Patrick's Day 2010 was €4537.06. This includes the airfare costs for one official from the Department who accompanied me.

Details of other expenditure such as accommodation and ancillary costs are not yet available.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Sean Fleming

Question:

599 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if jobseeker’s benefit will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12920/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Michael Noonan

Question:

600 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a decision will be made on an application for disability allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12927/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

601 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason child benefit was refused in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12931/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Eamon Scanlon

Question:

602 Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position regarding an application for child benefit in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Leitrim; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12932/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Michael Ring

Question:

603 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved and awarded jobseeker’s allowance. [12939/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

604 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a decision will be made on an application for disability allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12979/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

605 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the change in financial circumstances that occasioned the sudden reduction in mortgage interest supplement in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will review the circumstances of the case in view of the hardship caused; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13035/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Questions Nos. 606 and 607 answered with Question No. 536.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

608 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the social welfare payment received by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13080/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Defence Forces Recruitment.

Seán Connick

Question:

609 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Defence if the maximum age for recruitment to the Permanent Defence Forces will increase in conjunction with the increase in the entitlement age to a State pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12277/10]

The 2000 White Paper on Defence and the earlier Defence Force Review Implementation Plan both identified the requirement to address the high age profile in the Defence Forces. The key element in military life is the need for personnel to maintain a level of fitness for combat readiness. This requirement must be balanced with the need to retain experience and expertise, particularly at managerial level in the Defence Forces. The upper age limit for enlistment in the Army is under 25 years of age on the date of enlistment and for the Naval Service it is under 27 years of age on the date of enlistment. These limits are determined on the basis that the essential functions of the Permanent Defence Force requires that its members be composed of able-bodied personnel of an age which is commensurate with the functional requirements of the organisation.

The age profile of personnel recruited for general service into the Defence Forces in 2009 and over the past 10 years is presented in the Tabular Statement.

I am satisfied that the existing age requirements for recruitment to the Defence Forces are appropriate and I do not propose to make any changes in this area at this time.

Age profile of personnel recruited for general service to the Defence Forces in each of the past 10 years.

Year

Average Age

2009

None recruited

2008

20.31

2007

20.55

2006

20.54

2005

20.47

2004

20.45

2003

20.52

2002

20.60

2001

20.70

2000

19.83

1999

19.41

Departmental Property.

Seán Connick

Question:

610 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Defence the number of buildings his Department are renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12285/10]

The premises leased by my Department for use by the Reserve Defence Forces are outlined in the tabular statement. Rents paid for these premises are based on a number of factors including size, location and quality of the facilities and vary considerably. Information on the leases and individual rents paid in respect of these premises is commercially sensitive and therefore not available. However, the requirements of the RDF are reviewed annually and every effort is made on an ongoing basis to reduce costs. In this connection, expenditure by my Department on such facilities reduced from €196,128 in 2006 down to €140,479 in 2008 and €92,500 for 2009.

Reserve Defence Forces — Rented Property

County

Name

Location

F/T or P/T

Brigade

1

Carlow

Community Hall

Borris

P/T

Southern

2

RDF Centre

Carlow Town

F/T

Southern

3

Community Hall

Hacketstown

P/T

Southern

4

St. Patrick’s GAA

Tullow

P/T

Southern

5

Clare

Marina

Kilrush

Southern

6

Cork

Town Hall

Bandon

P/T

Southern

7

Weir Centre

Bandon

F/T

Southern

8

Parochial Hall

Bantry

P/T

Southern

9

Beara Sports Hall

Castletownbere

P/T

Southern

10

Community Hall

Charleville

P/T

Southern

11

Industrial Hall

Clonakilty

P/T

12

St. Patrick’s Hall

Dunmanway

P/T

Southern

13

Parish Hall

Kilworth

P/T

Southern

14

Millstreet GAA

Millstreet

P/T

Southern

15

Town Hall

Kinsale

16

Parish Hall

Roscarbery

17

Scoil Mhuire

Kanturk

18

Scoil Phadraig

Mallow

19

Donegal

St. Finian’s Hall, Station Road

Falcarragh

P/T

Western

20

Moville Road

Carndonagh

F/T

Western

21

Community Hall, Massinass

Creeslough

P/T

Western

22

St. Mary’s Hall

Ramelton

Western

23

Galway

Community Centre

Glenamaddy

P/T

Western

24

Headford College

Headford

P/T

Western

25

Parochial House

Carraroe

P/T

Western

26

Community Hall

Portumna

Western

27

Community Centre

Oughterard

P/T

Western

28

Site from Town Council

Tuam

F/T

Western

29

Old Telephone Exchange (OPW Property)

Clifden

F/T

Western

30

Kerry

RDF HQ

Cahirciveen

Ground Rent

Southern

31

Kilkenny

Dunamaggin

P/T

Southern

32

Leitrim

Rainbow Ballroom

Glenfarne

P/T

Western

33

Rainbow Ballroom

Drumshanbo

Western

34

Community Hall

Carrawallen

P/T

35

Community Centre

Drumlea

36

Limerick

Community Hall

Abbeyfeale

P/T

Southern

37

Community Centre

Boher

P/T

Southern

38

Town Hall

Hospital

P/T

Southern

39

Community Centre

Pallas Green

P/T

Southern

40

Parochial Hall

Kilmallock

P/T

Southern

41

RDF Hut

Newcastlewest

F/T

Southern

42

Mayo

Community Centre

Roundfort Hollymount

P/T

Western

43

Town Hall

Claremorris

P/T

Western

44

Community Centre

Swinford

P/T

45

McAndrews Premises

Ballina

P/T

Western

46

Scout Den

Ballina

Western

47

Meath

Community Centre

Oldcastle

P/T

Eastern

48

Scoil Mhuire

Trim

P/T

Eastern

49

Monaghan

7 Main street

Carrickmacross

F/T

Eastern

50

Monaghan GAA

Monaghan Town

P/T

51

Offaly

St. Mary’s Hall

Ferbane

P/T

Eastern

52

Kilcruttin Business Park

Tullamore

F/T

Eastern

53

Roscommon

Park Lane

Carrick-on-Shannon

54

Sligo

Unit 12 B, Business Park

Cleveragh

F/T

Western

55

Community Centre

Tobercurry

P/T

Western

56

Tipperary

St. Patrick’s Hall

Ballymacarbry

P/T

Southern

57

St. Michael Street

Tipperary Town

Southern

58

Waterford

Community Hall

Villierstown

P/T

Southern

59

RDF Hall

Dungarvan

F/T

Southern

60

CYMS Hall

Dunamaggin

P/T

Southern

61

Westmeath

St. Patrick’s Hall

Tyrrellspass

62

Wexford

Capt. Wafer Hall

Enniscorthy

P/T

Eastern

63

Community Hall

Cortnacuddy

P/T

Eastern

64

Community Hall

Cushinstown

P/T

Eastern

65

Delare House

New Ross

P/T

Southern

66

Scout Hall

Gorey

P/T

Eastern

67

Wicklow

Parochial Hall

Tinahely

P/T

Eastern

F/T = fulltime use.

P/T = part-time use.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

611 Deputy Bruton asked the Minister for Defence the number of staff in his Department, and any agency under his remit, who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12300/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action it is not possible to provide a response to his question at this time.

Overseas Missions.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

612 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence if joint training exercises have been undertaken by the Defence Forces with the other armies involved in the Nordic battle group since its inception; and if so the cost of same. [12339/10]

In July 2009, the Government approved Ireland's participation in the Swedish-led Nordic Battlegroup 2011. The Nordic Battlegroup 2011 will be on standby for 6 months commencing on the 1st January 2011. To date Ireland has deployed four Officers to serve in staff posts at the Force Headquarters in Enkoping, Sweden and these officers took up their duties on the 28th August 2009.

The Nordic Battlegroup 2011 has not undertaken any military exercises to date. Consequently, no costs have been incurred by the Department of Defence in respect of this Battlegroup.

Due to industrial action it has not been possible to compile the costs of the training exercises conducted with the Nordic Battlegroup 2008 in Sweden and the Minister will communicate further with the Deputy when this information is to hand.

Bullying in the Workplace.

Michael Creed

Question:

613 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Defence if he has received correspondence from the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces regarding work place complaints of bullying and harassment by members of the Army nursing services; the reason he has failed to respond to this correspondence to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12398/10]

I can confirm that correspondence has been received from the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces in relation to the matter referred to by the Deputy.

It should be noted that in the case of a serving member of the Defence Forces an action may only be investigated by the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces where a complaint regarding that action was first made under section 114 of the Defence Act 1954. Section 290 of the Defence Act, 1954 which deals with the application of the Act to members of the ANS, specifies the relevant sections of the Act which are applicable to a member of the ANS, one of which is not section 114.

Members of the Army Nursing Service (ANS) have recourse to a Redress of Wrongs Process under Section 19 of Defence Force Regulation A14. Members of the ANS may if they so choose opt to join a trade union and in that context they are entitled to avail of the full range of industrial relations machinery which is available to employees generally. The availability of access to union membership and consequently to redress through normal industrial relations machinery to members of the ANS is the reason why the ANS is excluded from seeking redress through the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces.

With regard to the particular alleged complaint the member of the ANS involved lodged a formal complaint dated 25th May 2009 with the military authorities which has been the subject of ongoing investigation. Representations were also received on behalf of the individual from the Industrial Relations Officer of the Irish Nurses Organisation (INO).

As the investigation was ongoing for some time holding responses to the correspondence from the Ombudsman were issued and a status update on the case was requested from the military authorities. This was received on 12th February 2010 and a detailed response is currently being prepared which will be issued to the office of the Ombudsman.

Defence Forces Equipment.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

614 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence if the Defence Forces are in the process of procuring, or recently procured, ammunition; and if so, if any Israeli companies submitted tenders for the contract.. [12593/10]

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

615 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Defence the purchases that have been made from the State of Israel or Israeli Defence contractors in recent years, including the purchases of drones and troop carriers; the items purchased, price paid and purpose of same in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12671/10]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

616 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence the steps he will take to exclude all Israeli based companies from tendering for Defence Force procurement contracts. [12738/10]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

617 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the European Defence Agency code of conduct on defence procurement is explicitly a voluntary non-binding agreement which involves no legal commitment and which leaves the member State the authority to award its own contracts; and if in view of this, he will intervene to prevent the Defence Forces from sourcing ammunition from an Israeli arms company. [12739/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 614 to 617, inclusive, together.

Tender competitions for defensive equipment for the Defence Forces are conducted by the Department of Defence in accordance with EU procurement guidelines. For procurements of defensive equipment in excess of €1 million, the European Defence Agency (EDA) Code of Conduct on Defence Procurement is observed and competitions are advertised on the EDA Electronic Bulletin Board. Tender competitions are held in accordance with the EU Code of Conduct on Export Controls. Accordingly, competitions are open to any individual or country in accordance with the terms of all UN, OSCE and EU arms embargoes or restrictions. To properly follow these guidelines and codes, the Department of Defence must deal impartially with all companies that are entitled to enter its procurement competitions and must evaluate tenders on the basis of objective criteria.

A number of Israeli companies have won orders for defensive equipment in recent years as a result of tender competitions. Since 2005, the Department has purchased small arms ammunition, X-Ray equipment for Explosive Ordnance Disposal duties (EOD), helmets for personal protection, an Artillery Fire Control System, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, commonly referred to as UAVs, and a Surveillance and Target Acquisition Suite from Israeli suppliers. The total value of defensive equipment acquired or being acquired from Israeli companies since 2005 is in the region of €13.9 million, inclusive of VAT. In each case, the main contract was awarded by tender competition, conducted impartially in compliance with the codes and guidelines set out above, on the basis that the company concerned had submitted the best tender.

The order for the Surveillance and Target Acquisition suite was placed with Elbit Systems Limited last year. The order is for the supply of surveillance equipment for four out of a total of twenty-seven Light Tactical Armoured Vehicles that are being supplied this year by BAE Systems in South Africa. The order was placed following a tender competition and has a value of €2.37 million inclusive of VAT. The four Surveillance and Target Acquisition Suites are required to enhance the capability of the Defence Forces to carry out overseas Peace Support Operations. They will be used as an information-gathering asset and will provide a means to enhance force protection and the safety of Irish troops whilst on such missions. There is no order placed with an Israeli company for troop carriers.

In addition, an order for two additional portable mini-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Systems, commonly referred to as UAVs, was placed in late 2009 with Aeronautics Defence Systems Limited from Israel. The value of the order is the region of €1.7 million, inclusive of VAT. The initial delivery of UAV systems, with a value of €0.958 million inclusive of VAT, took place at the end of 2007 following a tender competition. The UAV systems were acquired to enhance the capability of the Defence Forces to carry out surveillance and target acquisition for overseas Peace Support Operations. The UAVs have the capability to provide a low cost and low risk means to increase capabilities and enhance force protection by performing missions without requiring or risking the use of manned aircraft. The UAVs are an information-gathering asset and are unarmed.

In recent weeks the Department initiated a tender competition for 5.56 mm ammunition. The tender competition is ongoing and tender proposals have not yet been submitted in respect of this competition. The Department of Defence has no information at this stage as to what companies will submit such tender proposals.

As I have already outlined above, the principle of competitive tendering for Government contracts has to be used by the Department of Defence for the acquisition of defensive equipment for the Defence Forces. Central to those procedures is the requirement to allow fair competition between suppliers through the submission of tenders. Such tender competitions are open to any individual company or country in accordance with the terms of all UN, OSCE and EU arms embargoes or restrictions. There are no such restrictions or embargoes in place on Israel or Israeli companies.

The matter of a general trade embargo on Israel raises implications for foreign policy. The Irish Government has consistently been opposed to proposals for trade, diplomatic, cultural, academic, sporting or other boycotts of Israel. In the absence of a general trade embargo of Israel, the Department of Defence cannot unilaterally preclude Israeli companies from participating in tender competitions.

The primary purpose for the procurement of defensive equipment by the Department of Defence is to enhance the capability of the Irish Defence Forces on overseas Peace Support Operations and to afford the greatest possible force protection to Irish troops whilst on such missions.

Health and Safety Issues.

Sean Sherlock

Question:

618 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Defence if any scientific studies have been carried out at Haulbowline, County Cork, pertaining to the health and safety of naval and ancillary personnel relating to the former operations of Irish Steel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12758/10]

Following concerns arising in relation to work undertaken on behalf of the Department of the Environment Heritage and Local Government at the ISPAT site, as a purely precautionary measure, an independent investigation of any potential health issues arising at the Naval Base in Haulbowline was undertaken in 2008.

A comprehensive and detailed assessment of soil, sediment and air quality was carried out to assess any potential risks posed to human health. The initial report by the Independent consultants was completed and the report concluded that any risk arising within the Naval Base falls within the acceptable range, meaning that there is no exposure to undue risks and that no mitigating action needs to take place. I wish to state clearly that there is no unacceptable risk posed to personnel at the Naval Base and this is clearly supported by the independent assessment.

Ministerial Travel.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

619 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Defence the estimated cost in respect of foreign travel, accommodation and related ministerial and official costs associated with St. Patrick’s Day 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12814/10]

In my capacity as Minister for Defence, I did not incur any foreign travel, accommodation, related Ministerial or official costs associated with Saint Patrick's Day 2010.

Animal Welfare Bodies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

620 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there is capital funding available from his Department for voluntary run services for dog protection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12258/10]

Funding of voluntary run services for animal protection, including dog protection, is a matter for the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. However, it is open to local authorities to make payments to voluntary run dog protection services where these relate to a service provided to the local authority in respect of its dog control functions.

Building Energy Ratings.

Simon Coveney

Question:

621 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to industry complaints about the building energy rating software; if there has been instances when the installation of a wood chip boiler can lead to a downgrading of a BER rating; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12462/10]

Simon Coveney

Question:

622 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of building energy rating certificates issued every month since its establishment; the number of certificates issued to publically owned dwellings such as social and affordable housing; the number of certificates issued for private houses; if these figures are not available if he will order the compilation of these statistics for new certificates in order to adequately gauge private sector compliance with BER legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12463/10]

Simon Coveney

Question:

623 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of building energy rating certificates issued by public sector assessors and by private sector assessors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12464/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 621 to 623, inclusive, together.

Under the Building Energy Rating (BER) scheme, all dwellings are assessed against a standard calculation methodology know as DEAP (Dwelling Energy Assessment Procedure). DEAP software calculates both energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions by taking account of a wide range of factors including the dwelling's construction type, orientation, insulation levels, heating system, quality of the windows, doors, floors, lighting, ventilation, air tightness, etc.

In terms of energy efficiency, wood chip boilers would generally achieve an efficiency of 80% whereas, for example, modern oil condensing boilers can achieve efficiency levels of 93%. In contrast to this, the wood chip boiler performs significantly better than the oil boiler in terms of carbon dioxide emissions. The wood chip boiler also has an advantage where newly built dwellings are concerned in terms of assisting with meeting the mandatory requirement under Part L of the Building Regulations 1997-2009 to source a reasonable proportion of energy from renewable energy sources.

The database of BER activity maintained by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland does not distinguish between privately or publicly owned dwellings. My Department is not therefore in a position to supply the requested statistical information in full. However, the available data are being compiled and will be forwarded directly to the Deputy.

Environmental Policy.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

624 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views of the dangers presented by electromagnetic fields; the standards applying where such is presented in a community by State, semi-State or private interests; the requirements of bodies to notify people living within a given radius of the presence and dangers involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12526/10]

The issue of potential health effects of mobile phone masts was comprehensively covered by the Expert Group Report entitled Health Effects of Electromagnetic Fields published by Government in March 2007.

The Expert Group Report examined a wide range of issues in relation to the potential health effects of electromagnetic fields, including those produced by mobile phone base stations. It answers many of the health risk questions raised by the public in relation to the potential effects of electromagnetic fields. The Report and its recommendations were accepted by the Government and form the basis for current policy in this area.

The majority scientific opinion is that to date no adverse short or long term effects have been demonstrated from exposure to electromagnetic fields at levels below the limits recommended by the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). However, a minority group of scientists believe otherwise and extensive international research continues to be coordinated through bodies such as the World Health Organisation (WHO). This research is co-funded by the Irish Government.

The ICNIRP Guidelines on exposure limits have been recommended by the European Commission to its Member States and are applied here in Ireland as part of the standard licensing conditions set down by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) for the telecommunications industry. The results from the emission measurements commissioned by ComReg at 750 sites to date have shown compliance with the ICNIRP Guidelines with values that were typically hundreds of times below the limits.

My Department's current advice to those living in close proximity to mobile phone base stations, based on the conclusions of the Expert Group Report, is that there is no scientific basis for, or evidence of, adverse health effects in children or adults as a result of exposure to electromagnetic fields. This applies irrespective of the location of the phone mast.

Departmental Correspondence.

Terence Flanagan

Question:

625 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will reply to correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12213/10]

The information requested cannot currently be provided as a result of industrial action.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Joe Carey

Question:

626 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the development of a drainage scheme (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12216/10]

The Ennis Clarecastle Sewerage Scheme was included for funding under my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009. My Department is currently examining Clare County Council's Brief to appoint consultants to review the design of the scheme. A decision will be conveyed to the Council as soon as possible in light of the finalisation of the Water Services Investment Programme for the period 2010 to 2012. I expect to publish the new Programme shortly.

Joe Carey

Question:

627 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the provision of sewerage facilities (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12217/10]

The Ballyvaughan, Corofin and Doolin Sewerage Scheme was included for funding in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009. Work has commenced on a new wastewater treatment plant and the upgrade of the existing collection network for Corofin. I understand that Clare County Council is advancing the planning of the Ballyvaughan and Doolin elements of the Scheme with the view to drafting contract documents for those elements in due course. Further progress on Ballyvaughan and Doolin awaits the finalisation of the Water Services Investment Programme for the period 2010 to 2012. I expect to publish the new Programme shortly.

Urban Renewal Schemes.

Joe Carey

Question:

628 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the plans he has to introduce a new urban and village renewal scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12218/10]

Under the Urban and Village Renewal Programme 2000-2006, grant assistance was provided by my Department to local authorities for a range of interventions to upgrade the fabric of the built environment in cities, towns and villages. Final funding allocations under this Programme, which ended in early 2008, involved total EU and Exchequer co-financed expenditure of over €158 million.

The 2007-2013 Urban and Village Regeneration Programme, administered by my Department, has been deferred due to budgetary constraints.

Departmental Staff.

Brian Hayes

Question:

629 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the persons who are the representatives of his Department on the board of the Dublin Docklands Development Authority since 2002; the number of foreign trips these representatives went on with the DDDA; the venues for the trips they undertook; the cost to the taxpayer for these representatives to go on these trips and expenses incurred on their behalf by the DDDA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12232/10]

Since 2002, two officials of my Department have served on the Executive Board of the Dublin Docklands Development Authority: Ms. Mary Moylan, Assistant Secretary, was a member of the Executive Board from June 2000 to October 2007 when, following changes in responsibilities within the Department, she was succeeded by Mr. Mark Griffin, Assistant Secretary, who continues to serve on the Board.

Since 2002, the Department official serving on the Executive Board has participated in five foreign research visits by the DDDA, to see, first hand, and assess international best practice in docklands and harbour developments, and to meet with local officials and stakeholders. The locations concerned were Helsinki / St. Petersburg in 2004, Glasgow and Amsterdam in 2005, Bilbao / San Sebastian in 2006, and London in 2008. The Department's official was also scheduled to join, but in the event did not participate in, research visits to Newcastle in 2002 and Baltimore/New York in 2003.

The full travel costs were generally paid for by the Dublin Docklands Development Authority, apart from a small amount of travel and subsistence (of the order of €137) recouped from my Department's Vote. While it is not possible to identify each specific cost, it is estimated that, on a pro-rata basis, the expenditure incurred by the Authority in respect of the Department official on the Board, for purposes of foreign research visits, was of the order of €13,770.

Car Scrappage Scheme.

Tom Hayes

Question:

630 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if waiting times for the issue of scrappage certificates on used cars will be reduced. [12244/10]

The issue of Certificates of Destruction in respect of end-of-life vehicles is not a function of my Department. They are issued by authorised treatment facilities as prescribed in article 19 of the Waste Management (End-of-Life Vehicles) Regulations 2006. These Regulations require that a Certificate of Destruction is issued on the deposit of a vehicle, falling within the scope of the Regulations, at the authorised treatment facility concerned. Article 22(1)(a) of these Regulations also requires authorised treatment facilities to notify the National Vehicle Records Office of the Department of Transport of Certificates of Destruction issued.

Local Authority Funding.

Phil Hogan

Question:

631 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on the amount of moneys owed to each local authority in the State in respect of outstanding unpaid claims by the local authorities for costs incurred in progressing projects under the waste services investment programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12263/10]

The information requested cannot currently be provided as a result of industrial action.

Fire Stations.

Noel Coonan

Question:

632 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when approval will be given for the extension and improvements at a fire station (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the timeframe for the provisions of the funding; the reason for the delay in providing funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12267/10]

The provision of a fire service in its functional area, including the establishment and maintenance of a fire brigade, the assessment of fire cover needs and the provision of premises is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under section 10 of the Fire Services Act 1981.

The Department's role is one of supporting and assisting local authorities in delivering fire services through the provision of funding under the fire service capital programme and through setting of general policy.

Following an application by North Tipperary County Council, approval in principle to extend the fire station in Templemore was granted in 2007. Detailed design plans for the project are awaited from the county council.

Further investment in the fire service in North Tipperary will be considered under future capital programmes within the constraints of available resources and will have regard to the fire authority's priorities, the spread of existing facilities, and the totality of demands from other fire authorities for available funding.

Departmental Property.

Seán Connick

Question:

633 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of buildings his Department are renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12288/10]

Rental costs on properties occupied by the Department are, in general, met by the Office of Public Works.

However, at the end of 2009, the Department entered into an arrangement whereby its National Monuments Service will occupy a proportion of an archival and storage facility as a sub-lessee of the National Museum of Ireland. This shared arrangement in optimal accommodation and environmental conditions will ensure satisfactory long-term preservation and protection of a range of valuable archaeological materials of common interest to both bodies. The Department's share of the rental costs, amounting to €105,000 for the period to the end of 2011, was paid to the National Museum of Ireland in December 2009, on entering the arrangement.

The Department is also renting storage space in Galway and Cork. The costs associated with Galway are approximately €1,200 per annum, while the rental cost for the space in Cork was €21,870 in 2009.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

634 Deputy Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of staff in his Department or any agency under his remit who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12302/10]

The information requested in relation to my Department is set out in the following table.

Area

No. of Staff*

Payroll

9.96

Financial Management

29.06

Human Resources Management

29.45

Means Assessment

0.00

Procurement

2.30

ICT Services- Department

27.00

ICT Services- Met Éireann

16.00

*Numbers provided are the on the basis of Full Time Equivalents at the end of February 2010.

The allocation of staff to specific duties within an agency is a matter for the management of the agency concerned and such detailed information would not generally be available in my Department. If the Deputy has a specific request, my Department will seek the information from the Agency concerned.

Waste Management.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

635 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if persons cutting hedgerows are required by law to remove the debris and cuttings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12343/10]

The primary responsibility for the management of any waste, including costs for removal or disposal, lies with the holder of the waste, i.e. the natural or legal person in possession of the waste, or the producer of the waste. The Waste Management Acts impose a general duty of care on holders of waste. A person may not hold, transport, recover or dispose of waste in a manner that causes or is likely to cause environmental pollution. Environmental pollution is widely defined in the Act to include adversely affecting the countryside or places of interest. Persons who contravene this general duty are guilty of an offence and may be prosecuted by the local authority.

In addition, the Waste Management (Prohibition of Waste Disposal by Burning) Regulations 2009, prohibit a holder of waste from disposing of it by burning. An exception is provided in Regulation 5 of these Regulations for certain types of waste, such as tree trimmings, leaves or brush generated by agricultural practices, where burning is permitted provided it is done as a final measure following the application, where practicable, of the following waste hierarchy:

i. waste arisings are reduced in accordance with best agricultural practice,

ii. waste is reused,

iii. waste is recycled through shredding and use as compost or wood chippings,

iv. waste is salvaged for use as fuel.

Where none of the non-combustion disposal options are practicable or economically viable the waste may be disposed of by burning subject to certain conditions being fulfilled:

i. the person carrying out the disposal must take all reasonable measures to limit the overall nuisance or possibilities for endangering human health or causing environmental pollution or damage to adjoining hedgerows or habitats,

ii. no accelerants may be used when undertaking the disposal activity, and

iii. the person carrying out the disposal must notify the local authority concerned in advance of the intention to dispose by burning.

Residential Developments.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

636 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the legislation or guidelines in place for local authorities when calculating the bond that must be lodged by developers until an estate is taken in charge; if he is satisfied with the level or amount being sought by local authorities; his plans to make changes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12344/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

637 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the circumstances a developer of a management company development may redeem bonds paid when developments are not taken in charge by a local authority; the person responsible for ensuring that the development is completed in accordance with plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12345/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 636 and 637 together.

My Department's Circular Letter PD 1/08 on Taking in Charge of Residential Developments/Management Arrangements states that planning authorities must take all necessary measures, in particular through securing adequate bonds, inspection of construction and enforcement action when necessary, to ensure that developers complete residential developments to a standard that is in compliance with the planning permission granted.

In relation to bonds, the circular states that in the case of residential development, planning conditions must require the giving of sufficient security prior to commencement of development and that planning authorities must ensure that they are in a position to draw down the security in cases where a developer fails satisfactorily to complete a residential development, or phase of a development, within the specified period.

The circular states that the amount of the security, and the terms on which it is required to be given, must enable the planning authority, without cost to itself, to complete the necessary services (including roads, footpaths, water mains, sewers, lighting and open space) to a satisfactory standard in the event of default by the developer and that the security condition must also provide for the recalculation of the amount specified in the condition by reference to the House Building Cost Index (or the Consumer Price Index) if the development to which the permission relates is not commenced within a specified period after the granting of the permission.

The circular also states that where a development is completed in accordance with the planning permission the security should be released without undue delay.

The developer of a residential estate is statutorily required to complete this development in accordance with the terms of the planning permission. A development which has not been completed in accordance with the planning permission is unauthorised development. Enforcement of planning control is a matter for the planning authority, which can take action where a development requiring planning permission has not obtained this permission, or where permission has not been complied with. Planning authorities have substantial obligations under the Planning and Development Act 2000 in relation to enforcement of planning control.

Insofar as residential developments are concerned, Circular Letter PD 1/08 requests planning authorities to inspect such developments during construction and on completion or expiration of the planning permission with a view to taking appropriate enforcement action where the planning permission is not being complied with.

Circular Letter PD 1/08 is referenced in my Department's Planning Guidelines on Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas (Cities, Towns and Villages) of May 2009. These are statutory guidelines issued under section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, and planning authorities are required to have regard to them in exercising their functions under the Act. A copy of the guidelines is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.

Local Authority Housing.

Phil Hogan

Question:

638 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the rewiring of a dwelling in included under the housing aid for the elderly scheme administered by local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12373/10]

Under the terms of the Housing Aid for Older People Scheme, grants of up to €10,500 are available for the carrying out of necessary repairs or improvements to a house. The types of works allowable under the scheme can be varied and may include re-wiring or any other repair or improvement works which, in the opinion of the local authority, are considered necessary to make the house habitable for the lifetime of the occupant.

Local Authority Contracts.

Michael Creed

Question:

639 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the availability of finalised tender lists for machinery contracts with local authorities under the freedom of information legislation; if he will provide the lists for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12393/10]

Finalised tender lists relating to procurement procedures undertaken by local authorities are an administrative matter for the authorities themselves. Information of this nature should be requested directly from the relevant authority.

Grant Payments.

Michael Creed

Question:

640 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received an application from an organisation (details supplied) for grant aid towards the construction of special needs housing units in County Cork; if he will be making a capital allocation to this project in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12397/10]

My Department's Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS) provides funding to approved housing bodies of up to 100% of the approved costs of accommodation for older people, the homeless, persons with special needs, returning emigrants and victims of domestic violence.

My Department's involvement with the scheme relates primarily to the provision of funds for individual projects. The detailed administration of the scheme, including the certification that projects comply with its terms and conditions and the processing of applications are the responsibility of the local authorities.

An application for the project concerned was received from Cork County Council on 18 March 2009. Having regard to the relative priority afforded to the proposal by the Council and the competing demands for capital funding for new projects across all local authorities, it has not been possible to approve the project so far. It will be a matter for the Council to review this situation under future calls for proposals for such projects.

Architectural Heritage.

Tom Hayes

Question:

641 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the draft tentative list for UNESCO world heritage status will be reconsidered in view of recent excavations over a mile from the Rock of Cashel (details supplied); if changes to the tentative list will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12403/10]

In October 2008 I established an Expert Advisory Group to carry out a review of Ireland's Tentative List of potential properties for nomination for inscription on the World Heritage List. The Expert Advisory Group (EAG) completed an extensive analysis of the properties on the current Tentative List. Members of the public and interested groups were also invited to submit potential properties for inclusion on the new Tentative List. 31 such proposals were received and these were considered and assessed by the EAG.

On the basis of the Expert Advisory Group's own analysis, and its consideration and assessment of the proposals received from the public and interested groups, a draft new Tentative List was published for public consultation between 2 November 2009 and 23 December 2009. The List contained the details of the properties which the EAG considered were of outstanding universal value, met the UNESCO World Heritage inscription criteria in terms of integrity and authenticity, and had the best potential for future inscription on the World Heritage List.

Cashel was included on the draft new Tentative List within the Royal Sites of Ireland. Possible future discoveries at properties included within the Royal Sites of Ireland, such as those referred to in the Question, have the potential to add to the outstanding universal value of these sites.

54 submissions were received during the public consultation period on the draft new Tentative List. Each property on the draft new Tentative List has been re-examined by the EAG with regard to the submissions received and the UNESCO Tentative List Submission Format. The EAG has now finalised a new Tentative List which has been submitted to me. I expect to be in a position to approve the new Tentative List shortly with a view to submission to UNESCO.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Jack Wall

Question:

642 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will investigate the contents of correspondence (details supplied); his views on its conclusions; if so, the actions he will take to overcome the problems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12442/10]

I refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 436 and 425 of the 23 February 2010.

Stag Hunting.

Phil Hogan

Question:

643 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of deer that have been killed during the course of the hunt season 2009-10 in respect of an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12454/10]

The Ward Union Hunt Club hunts stags under licence issued from my Department. My Department's monitoring team attended a hunt meeting held on 11 December, 2009 where a deer collided with a motor vehicle. The deer was examined by two veterinary surgeons, including the veterinary surgeon employed by my Department, and it was decided to euthanise the deer on account of its injuries. I am not aware of any other killing of a deer during the hunt season 2009 — 2010.

Phil Hogan

Question:

644 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the list of the conditions underpinning the licence held by an organisation (details supplied); if a team from his Department is required to be present to monitor the events held by this organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12458/10]

My Department issued a licence to the Ward Union Hunt Club in October 2009 to hunt stags in the 2009/2010 hunting season. This licence had thirty five conditions attached, and I am arranging for a copy of the licence to be made available to the Deputy.

Departmental Bodies.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

645 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the merger of the Local Government Management Services Board and the Local Government Computer Services Board into the Local Government Services Board has been completed; if not, the date by which it will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12473/10]

A process is in place to merge the Local Government Management Services and Computer Services Boards as quickly as possible. This takes into account the existing functions of the two organisations and the needs of relevant stakeholders as well as the recommendations of the OECD report and The Report of the Task Force on the Public Service.

The Government approved the drafting of the Local Government Services (Corporate Bodies) (Amendment) Bill 2009 in December 2009 to amend the relevant Corporate Bodies legislation, and the associated legislation is in preparation.

Separately, steps are being taken to give practical effect to the merger in advance of the legislation. A new CEO for the merged organisation has taken up his position. The membership of both boards has been standardised to enable them to act as one in advance of the legislation. An organisation structure has been developed for the new organisation, and it, along with a number of practical HR issues, are the subject of ongoing dialogue with staff representatives.

Private Residential Tenancies Board.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

646 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 602 of 22 April 2009, the position regarding same. [12474/10]

My Department has overseen the administrative merger of the Rent Tribunal and the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB). Since 1 October 2009 administrative support services to the Rent Tribunal have been provided by the PRTB and the Rent Tribunal is now located at the offices of the PRTB at O'Connell Bridge House, D'Olier Street, Dublin 2.

Preparatory work on the legislative amendments required to underpin the formal merger of the Rent Tribunal and the Private Residential Tenancies Board has been underway in my Department for some time and while it had been intended to introduce these amendments in the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009, the need to progress other priority amendments in that Act meant that this was not possible. The matter will now be progressed in the context of legislation to amend the Residential Tenancies Acts which I intend to introduce before the end of 2010.

National Asset Management Agency.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

647 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department prepared and made available to the National Asset Management Agency the data and analysis referred to in SI 88 of 2010; if so, if he has or will make this information publicly available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12481/10]

My Department has provided the National Asset Management Agency with:

Extracts from the draft Regional Planning Guidelines 2010-2022 for the regions. These draft guidelines outline the population targets for the regions, disaggregated into county and gateway city and town figures, and include estimates of the expected housing land requirements on the basis of these population targets;

Baseline analysis of the developing areas under the Developing Areas Initiative;

Data from the 2008 Housing Land Availability Survey giving details of the amount of zoned residential land in each local authority area that is currently serviced or is likely to be serviced within the next six years, and the estimated yields (housing units) from these lands (the latest figures available are at end June 2008);

Statistics on house completions in each local authority area; and,

Data on the number of planning applications, permissions granted and refusals in each of the city and county council area, as well as data on the class of development approved.

The draft Regional Planning Guidelines have been published for public consultation, the analysis of developing areas will be published shortly, and the other information referred to is available on my Department's website, www.environ.ie.

I am informed by the National Asset Management Agency (NAMA) that the data and analysis provided by my Department have been taken into account by NAMA in its determination of appropriate adjustment factors for the long-term economic value of property assets. I, and my Department, have met with NAMA and remain available to meet and offer further advice and assistance, as necessary.

Planning Issues.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

648 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if a landowner may make a claim for compensation from the local authority if land is zoned from development zoning such as residential or industrial to a zoning of less value, greenbelt or agriculture when that rezoning occurs as part of the development plan process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12482/10]

Section 10 (8) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 states that there shall be no presumption in law that any land zoned in a particular development plan (including a development plan that has been varied) shall remain so zoned in any subsequent development plan. Section 13(1) of the Act provides that a planning authority may make a variation to a development plan which is in force and this could, inter alia, include changes to zoning objectives.

There are no provisions for compensation to landowners in the event of any changes to the zoning designations of their lands as part of the development plan process.

Michael Ring

Question:

649 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a reply will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [12497/10]

The person concerned has written to me on eight occasions since September 2007 and has been issued with six replies. The matters raised by him have generally related to the taking of enforcement action on unauthorised development. As indicated in the replies to him, under the Planning Acts, enforcement is a matter for the relevant planning authority.

A reply will issue as soon as possible to the latest letter dated 15 January 2010.

Local Government Charges.

James Bannon

Question:

650 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if second home owners must make payment in March 2010 of the €200 annual charge in view of the fact that they paid this charge in October 2009; the meaning that he puts on an annual charge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12510/10]

The €200 non-principal private residence charge was introduced in the Local Government (Charges) Act 2009, which came into force in July 2009. As an exceptional measure for the year of introduction, the liability date for the charge was fixed at 31 July 2009. The Act provides that the liability date for 2010 and future years is 31 March.

Payment does not fall due until two months after the liability date and there is a further one month's grace period before penalties for late payment commence. A person liable for the charge in 2010 thus has until 30 June 2010 to meet that liability without incurring any additional charge.

White Paper on Local Government.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

651 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has published the White Paper on Local Government; if not, when he expects to publish it; the procedure involved for a town, which has former town commissioner status, to be granted full town council status; his views on more towns being granted full town council status; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12537/10]

A dedicated Cabinet Committee is finalising the major strategic directions for inclusion in the White Paper on Local Government and the Paper will be published as soon as possible following completion of the Committee's deliberations.

There is no procedure to enable a town council with former town commissioner status to upgrade to full town council status. However, the issue of town government generally is among a broad suite of local government matters which are being considered in the context of the deliberations referred to above.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

John O'Donoghue

Question:

652 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will grant approval to proceed to preliminary report stage with a sewerage scheme (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12549/10]

The Lough Leane Catchment Sewerage Scheme (Killarney) was included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009 and the scheme is at the planning stage. A decision will be notified to Kerry County Council as soon as possible in light of the finalisation of the Water Services Investment Programme for 2010-2012 which I expect to publish shortly.

John O'Donoghue

Question:

653 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will grant approval to proceed to central documents stage with a sewerage scheme (details supplied), stage two in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12550/10]

The Castleisland Sewerage Scheme Stage 2 was included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009 and the scheme is at the planning stage. A decision will be notified to Kerry County Council as soon as possible in light of the finalisation of the Water Services Investment Programme for 2010-2012 which I expect to publish shortly.

Social and Affordable Housing.

Terence Flanagan

Question:

654 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will reply to a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12612/10]

A statutory assessment of housing need is carried out every three years by all housing authorities in accordance with the terms of the Housing Act 1988. The last assessment took place in 2008 and indicated that there were 56,249 households in need of social housing support. Further information regarding the assessment, including a breakdown of housing need figures by housing authority, is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.

Haulbowline Island Remediation.

Sean Sherlock

Question:

655 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the working group on the future of remediation of Haulbowline Island, County Cork, is being expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12759/10]

As previously advised, the Government has decided that the Office of Public Works (OPW) will chair a working group to develop a structured and coherent approach to the further management and development of the site of the former steelworks on Haulbowline Island. The establishment and the timing of the convening of this group is entirely a matter for the OPW.

My Department has ongoing contact with OPW on the matter and wrote to the OPW on 9 February 2010 in regard to the terms of reference, recommending that a suitable mechanism be put in place for ongoing dialogue with local communities to ensure that the group can take account of their views in arriving at an overall approach.

Ministerial Travel.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

656 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the estimated cost of foreign travel, accommodation and related ministerial and official costs associated with St. Patrick’s Day 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12817/10]

I did not travel abroad for St. Patrick's Day, 2010. The Minister of State at the Department, Minister Michael Finneran, travelled to China to promote Irish interests, attending a range of business and cultural events there. The Minister was accompanied by one official. As invoices associated with most of the costs incurred on the trip have not yet been received by the Department, it is not possible to estimate the overall cost of the trip at this stage. However air travel costs for the visit amounted to €6,600. In making arrangements for the visit, every effort was made to ensure that costs were kept to the minimum practicable.

Planning Issues.

Deirdre Clune

Question:

657 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if schools and other educational establishments are exempt from planning development changes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12950/10]

Class 20B of the Planning and Development Regulations 2008 provides an exemption, following a grant of planning permission or outline planning permission for a permanent structure, for the use of a temporary school structure up to a maximum of 50% of the size, and up to same height, of the proposed permanent structure. This exemption is for a five year period only.

Litter Pollution.

Deirdre Clune

Question:

658 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the provisions that are available to local authorities to deal with graffiti; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13027/10]

Under the Litter Pollution Acts local authorities have powers in relation to the defacement of structures by graffiti. It is an offence to deface property visible from a public place. A local authority may, on such terms and conditions as may be agreed by it with the occupier, enter and take remedial action to remove or otherwise remedy the defacement. There is a complementary provision that enables a local authority in the interests of amenity or of the environment to take remedial action in relation to graffiti even if put in place with the consent of the owner/occupier.

A local authority may serve a notice on the occupier requiring steps to be taken to remove or otherwise remedy the defacement within a specified period of not less than seven days. Failure to comply with a notice is an offence and in the case of an offence the local authority may give effect to the notice and recover costs. The local authority may also by arrangement with the occupier take steps to remedy the defacement. The local authority or its agents may by agreement enter and remedy the defacement themselves.

Penalties under the Litter Acts range from an on-the-spot fine of €125 to a fine on summary conviction not exceeding €3,000 and a fine not exceeding €130,000 on conviction on indictment.

In addition to the Litter Pollution Acts, the Criminal Damage Act, 1991 provides for the offences of damaging or defacing property. The Gardaí take the defacing of and damage to property very seriously and, when such offences are detected, perpetrators are processed through the courts or via the Juvenile Liaison System, as appropriate.

Since 1997 my Department has provided over €10 million to local authorities for public education and awareness initiatives against litter and graffiti.

Proposed Legislation.

Tom Hayes

Question:

659 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the basis on which the age of four months defined was the age at which a bitch would be classed as a breeding bitch in respect of the Dog Breeding Bill 2009 when it is physiologically impossible for a bitch of this age to come in season or produce a live litter. [13047/10]

The Dog Breeding Establishments Bill 2009 defines a dog breeding establishment as a premises at which are kept not less than 6 bitches, each of which is more than 4 months old and capable of being used for breeding purposes. This reflects the recommendation of the Working Group to review the management of dog breeding establishments. While it is acknowledged that a breeding bitch will not breed at 4 months, the definition is designed to ensure that all breeding bitches, no matter how early they are bred, are included.

Tom Hayes

Question:

660 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason kennels are to be classed as dog breeding establishments based on the number of bitches in that kennel as opposed to the number of litters produced there in respect of the Dog Breeding Establishments Bill 2009. [13048/10]

The Dog Breeding Establishments Bill 2009 proposes to give statutory effect to the recommendations of the Working Group that reviewed the management of dog breeding establishments. The Bill defines a dog breeding establishment as a premises with not less than 6 bitches of 4 months old, capable of breeding, which reflects the recommendations of the Working Group. The Group concluded that the number of litters would not provide a suitable basis for defining dog breeding establishments as ‘constant supervision would be required to ensure compliance.'

Broadcasting Services.

Pat Breen

Question:

661 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when the extension of broadcasting hours from 30 to 100 hours will be implemented for community broadcasters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12219/10]

Contracts for community sound broadcasting services are awarded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, on the recommendation of the Authority's Contract Awards Committee, in accordance with the provisions of section 64 of the Broadcasting Act 2009. The terms and conditions contained in such contracts are determined by the Authority in accordance with the provisions of section 69 of that Act. I have no function as Minister in relation to these matters.

Departmental Property.

Seán Connick

Question:

662 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of buildings his Department is renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12283/10]

My Department occupies or partly occupies a number of leased buildings. They are as follows:

Department HQ, 29/31 Adelaide Road, Dublin 2;

Core Store, Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, County Dublin;

Elm House, Earlsvale Road, Cavan (partly occupies).

All details in relation to the leases are dealt with by the Office of Public Works.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

663 Deputy Bruton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of staff in his Department, and any agency under his remit, who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12298/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Broadcasting Services.

James Bannon

Question:

664 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will consider the implications of the broadcasting levy, which will impact adversely on staffing levels of the independent radio sector, with jobs already being lost due to the current economic conditions and on the quality of programming; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12337/10]

I refer the Deputy to the response that I provided, on the issues raised, in my reply to Questions Nos. 371, 379 and 380 on Tuesday, 9 March 2010.

As I stated at that time, I met with the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources on Thursday, 4 March 2010, where the impact of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) levy on the broadcasting sector was discussed. The Broadcasting Act 2009 requires the BAI to make an order imposing a levy on broadcasters for the purpose of meeting the Authority's expenses. At that meeting, I acknowledged the very real concerns of the broadcasting sector regarding the proposed levy at a time of considerable financial constraints for commercial and public service broadcasters alike. I also repeated my position on the need for the Authority to be vigilant in keeping costs down, particularly in the current economic climate.

I advised the Joint Committee that I am currently examining a number of potential measures with a view to alleviating the burden that would be caused by the proposed imposition of a levy and I have committed to reverting to the Committee as soon as possible in this regard.

Meanwhile the BAI is reviewing its initial budget proposal for 2010 with a view to reducing it and the Chief Executive Officer has given an undertaking to meet with the Joint Committee after this review. While setting the budget is a matter for the Authority under the Broadcasting Act 2009, my Department will liaise closely with the BAI during the review.

Sustainable Energy Projects.

Simon Coveney

Question:

665 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the price at which Sustainable Energy Ireland purchased software for the building energy rating system; if Sustainable Energy Ireland can edit this software to correct any glitches or anomalies that may arise; if Sustainable Energy Ireland has edited BER software at any point; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12461/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his Question at this time. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Inland Fisheries.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

666 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if the merger of the central and regional fisheries boards into a single national fisheries board announced in annex D of budget 2009 has been completed; if not, when he expects to have it completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12475/10]

As the Deputy may be aware the Inland Fisheries Bill 2009 was published on the 18 November 2009. The main purpose of the Bill is to facilitate the restructuring of the inland fisheries sector through the establishment of a new national inland fisheries body, which will be known as Inland Fisheries Ireland. This body will replace the existing Central and seven Regional Fisheries Boards.

The Bill was passed by the Dáil on 11 March last and has been referred to the Seanad for consideration. I look forward to the new body being vested soon after the enactment of the legislation.

National Asset Management Agency.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

667 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his Department prepared and made available to the National Asset Management Agency the data and analysis referred to in SI 88 of 2010; if so, if he has made or will make this information publicly available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12483/10]

My Department is informed by the National Assets Management Agency, NAMA, that the data and analysis provided by my Department, as required under Statutory Instrument No. 88 of 2010, have been taken into account by NAMA in its determination of appropriate adjustment factors for the long-term economic value of property assets.

I am making the information publicly available on my Department's website in the coming days.

Energy Costs.

Mary Upton

Question:

668 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will respond to a query by a consumer (details supplied) regarding the belated reduction in gas prices and the effect that this has had on consumers. [12529/10]

Responsibility for the regulation of natural gas prices is a matter for the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), which is an independent statutory body. The CER regulates the domestic and small business customer tariffs charged by Bord Gáis Energy (BGE).

In the current economic climate, I fully understand that customers are concerned about energy costs and the impact of commodity price trends on the prices that they face.

Lower global gas prices, among other factors, led to the CER decision exceptionally in advance of the normal cycle to reduce tariffs for the gas sector by 12% from 1 May 2009. This was followed by a further tariff reduction of 9.8%, which took effect on 1 October 2009.

As part of an interim tariff review focussed largely on addressing subsequent downward movement in gas commodity prices, on 3 September 2009 the CER directed BGE to submit updated gas commodity cost and sales volumes (including actual and forecast data) during November. Examination by the CER of that data, including actual figures to end October, allowed the CER to undertake a consultation process proposing an 8% tariff decrease with effect from 1 February 2010. On 6 January last, the CER directed BGE to decrease the tariff with effect from 1 February by an average of 8% for domestic and SME customers. This meant that there has been 3 successive price decreases since 1 May 2009 amounting to a cumulative 27% reduction between 1 May 2009 and 1 February 2010.

I am satisfied that the specific measures taken by the CER, following on a sustained downward trend in gas commodity prices, have been timely and positive for consumers. I do not regard the claim that the most recent reduction was belated as justified in the light of the facts as outlined above.

I am confident that the CER will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of sustained price downturns are reflected in cost-reflective tariff decisions in a timely and appropriate manner.

Pension Provisions.

Joan Burton

Question:

669 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the Bord na Móna staff pension fund; the process for establishing transfer values of the pension rights of individual staff members; the deduction that is applied to such transfer values; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12608/10]

Joan Burton

Question:

670 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the financial position of the staff pension scheme at Bord na Móna; the process and formula for calculating the transfer value of individuals’ pension rights from this scheme; the deduction that is being applied to the normal transfer value payable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12655/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 669 and 670 together.

Under the terms of the Bord na Móna employee superannuation schemes, the transfer of pension rights is a matter for the Trustees of the relevant scheme. I have no role in this matter.

Ministerial Travel.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

671 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the estimated cost in relation to foreign travel, accommodation and related Ministerial and official costs associated with St. Patrick’s Day 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12812/10]

I regret to advise the Deputy that it is not possible to provide a response to his question at this time. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Food Producer Organisations.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

672 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on whether the producer groups set up with EU and Irish grants, representing the interests of growers here have been bypassed by the grocery retailers in the drive to maximise the supermarket profits; the action that he plans to take to restore the producer group as a vital part of the food retail chain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12509/10]

In the face of ever-greater concentration of demand, the grouping of supply through producer organisations (POs) is an economic necessity in order to strengthen the position of producers in the market.

Accordingly, in its 2007 reform of the common organisation of the market for fruit and vegetables, the EU made further provision for financial assistance to producers grouping, on a voluntary basis, to form recognised POs under the EU Scheme of Aid for Producer Organisations in the Fruit and Vegetables Sector.

These recognised POs implement approved multi-year operational programmes to improve the quality and efficiency of their operations. The programmes aim to improve the quality and commercial value of their produce by concentrating marketing, reducing production costs and stabilising prices and to promote the use of environmentally aware cultivation practices.

The POs play a vital role in supporting Irish producers of fruit and vegetables. The strengthening of their role is a core part of the EU strategy for improving the competitiveness of the fruit and vegetable sector in the future. My Department continues to encourage growers to become actively involved in Producer Organisations.

My Department has secured nearly €35m in EU Aid for Irish POs for the operational programmes they implemented between 1999 and 2008. Claims in respect of programmes implemented in 2009 are being assessed at present.

Food Labelling.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

673 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if food sold here is required to include the country of origin on the label; the relevant legislation or regulation; the procedures that are taken if food is mislabelled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12672/10]

The Minister for Health and Children has overall responsibility for the general food labelling legislation. Responsibility for the enforcement of this legislation rests with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (F.S.A.I.). This is done through service contracts with other relevant agencies, including the Health Service Executive, the Local Authority Veterinary Service and my Department.

Under the general labelling Directive (2000/13/EC), the place of origin of the foodstuff must be given if its absence might mislead the consumer to a material degree. Any evidence of contravention of this requirement should be brought to the attention of the F.S.A.I.

As far as my Department is concerned, labelling checks are carried out as part of routine official checks at meat plants where there is a permanent presence of DAFF Veterinary or Technical staff. Checks are conducted on a random, risk based frequency and cover labelling, traceability /origin, identification of cattle, labelling of carcasses, meat, minced meat and meat products.

Departmental Staff.

Tom Hayes

Question:

674 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the superintendent who retired from the farm development services in Clonmel, County Tipperary, will be replaced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12233/10]

As the Deputy will be aware there is a moratorium on recruitment and promotion in the public service. My Department has alternative arrangements in place to ensure the prompt processing of claims.

Grant Payments.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

675 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a REP scheme four payment will be awarded in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12242/10]

Due to industrial action by staff in my Department, I am not in a position to provide a reply to this question.

Departmental Properties.

Seán Connick

Question:

676 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of buildings his Department is renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12281/10]

The leasing arrangements and rental costs for this Department buildings is a matter for the Office of Public Works.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

677 Deputy Bruton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of staff in his Department, and any agency under his remit, who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12296/10]

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following table and the numbers involved are expressed in full-time equivalents:

Area

FTE

Payroll

61.0

Financial Management

18.5

Human Resources

95.0*

Means Assessment

Procurement

6.0

ICT

189.0

*Including Training & Development Unit.

The corresponding information requested by the Deputy in respect of the agencies under my remit is a matter for the agencies themselves as part of their day-to-day activities.

Grant Payments.

Pat Breen

Question:

678 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12317/10]

This person named had 27 animals born during 2008 for consideration under the Suckler Welfare Scheme. Payment issued for 12 of these animals on 12 March 2009 and for 1 animal on 12 June 2009. The applicant was advised by letter, dated 30 June 2009, that the remaining animals were not eligible for payment as 13 had not been registered within the statutory 27 days of birth and the mother of the other remaining animal was moved from the herd before the animal was weaned.

The applicant was given an opportunity to have this decision reviewed, which he did by letter dated 12 July 2009. However, the decision was upheld on review and he was notified by letter of 13 August 2009 that he could appeal this decision to the Agriculture Appeals Office within three months of the date of that letter. There are 26 animals born during 2009 for consideration under the 2009 Scheme. Paragraph 8.5.2 of the terms and Conditions of this Scheme states that: Abrupt weaning of all animals at one time is not permitted. For herds with more than 10 suckler cows, a gradual weaning procedure must be followed when weaning. Calves must be weaned in at least two separate groups with each group being removed at a minimum interval of 5 days.

None of the animals are eligible for payment as two of the animals died while very young while the remaining 24 animals were all weaned on the same day — 26 October 2009, which is contrary to the Terms and Conditions of the Scheme.

Noxious Weeds Legislation.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

679 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to increase the fines under the Noxious Weeds Act 1936; when they were last increased; the amount collected in fines in each of the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12342/10]

The Noxious Weeds Act, 1936, is being examined in the context of an on-going review of legislation in this area.

The penalty for non-compliance with this legislation, £20 on conviction, remains unchanged since 1936. Additionally, payments relating to certain schemes administered by this Department are contingent on compliance with the control of noxious weeds.

No prosecutions were taken in the last three years. The Department has focused on promoting best practice with regard to the control and elimination of noxious weeds, through advertising campaigns and advisory services. Inspections have been undertaken in affected areas and compliance notices issued, as necessary. In all such instances, the landowner responsible took the appropriate measures to eliminate the weeds.

Horse Breeding Industry.

Michael Creed

Question:

680 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if his attention has been drawn to the problems in the horse sector specifically the need for a scheme to reduce breeding mare numbers in order to achieve equilibrium in the market place and to reduce problems of animal welfare arising from poor returns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12389/10]

Michael Creed

Question:

695 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the animal welfare issues arising from the current economic climate and the substantial increase in the horse population in recent years; the initiatives he plans in this area including possible market intervention and increased competition for horses for the food chain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12557/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 680 and 695 together

In an effort to support the equine industry I have approved three plants for slaughter of horses and I am aware that a fourth plant has been approved by the Local Authority Veterinary Service. This element of choice should improve competition and price paid to the producer.

I do not propose to introduce a scheme to reduce breeding mare numbers, it is for the industry itself to respond to changes in the market place and to educate and increase awareness among owners on responsible breeding particularly in the current economic environment.

In relation to equine welfare generally, owners have the primary responsibility for the welfare of their animals. Local authorities also have extensive powers under the Control of Horses Act, 1996. Officials of my Department have met with representatives of the local authorities to emphasise their responsibilities and the importance of their ongoing work in helping to reduce the number of potential horse welfare problems, particularly with regard to those horses being abandoned by their owners. My Department currently provides annual funding in the region of €2 million to assist local authorities in their work in implementing the Control of Horses Act. I have also approved payments totalling €1.185m to 112 organisations involved in the direct delivery of animal care and welfare services to assist with their work during 2010. A number of these organisations are directly involved in equine welfare.

Grant Payments.

Michael Creed

Question:

681 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be awarded their REP scheme four grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12395/10]

Due to industrial action by staff in my Department, I am not in a position to provide a reply to this question.

Michael Ring

Question:

682 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the 25% payment will issue to REP scheme four participants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12459/10]

Out of 28,842 farmers due payments in REPS 4, 19,951 had been paid in full, including the 25% second instalment payment, as of 22 March 2010.

To meet the requirements of EU regulations, applications for REPS payments have to go through an exhaustive series of administrative checks before payment can be released. In a significant number of cases, those checks raised issues and queries which required further detailed examination. Department staff are working to resolve these as quickly as possible. Many of these cases will, however, require the applicants' planners to amend the farm plans that were submitted originally. The persons concerned have been made aware of the position and the applications will be further processed without delay on receipt of amended plans.

In a small number of local offices, the processing of payments has been delayed by staffing issues arising from the moratorium on recruitment and promotions in the public service and the Department is attempting to resolve these difficulties. My objective is to ensure that all outstanding claims are processed to payment stage as quickly as possible.

Michael Ring

Question:

683 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason the forestry premium payment in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo was reduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12460/10]

Due to industrial action by staff in my Department, I am unable to provide a reply to this question.

Departmental Staff.

Martin Ferris

Question:

684 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the position of district superintendent in the Tralee office, of his Department will be filled. [12485/10]

As the Deputy will be aware there is a moratorium on recruitment and promotion in the public service. My Department has been seeking to put in place alternative arrangements to ensure the prompt processing of claims.

Grant Payments.

Noel Coonan

Question:

685 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when forestry payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12499/10]

It is expected that the applicant's premiums will be paid in the annual premium run which is currently scheduled for the second last week of April 2010.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

686 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if the crop damage compensation scheme applies to strawberry growers who have lost considerable amounts of their crop due to frost damage in winter 2009-2010; if not, if there is any alternative scheme that will apply to fruit growers affected by the last winter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12506/10]

Following a preliminary assessment of the crop losses caused by the severe weather conditions in January, I announced, last month, the introduction of a limited scheme of financial assistance to certain potato and field vegetable growers who have suffered significant losses of produce due to frost damage.

It is not proposed to extend the scope of the scheme to include fruit producing plants.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

687 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the 2009 cow welfare scheme will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12512/10]

The person named has 31 animals for consideration under the Suckler Welfare Scheme. Payment has been approved for 25 of the animals and should issue shortly. Errors were identified with the remaining 6 animals and an official from my Department will be in contact with the applicant shortly with a view to resolving the outstanding matters.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

688 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the REP scheme payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12513/10]

Due to industrial action by staff in my Department, I am not in a position to provide a reply to this question.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

689 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the cow welfare scheme payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12514/10]

The person named has 45 animals born during 2009 for consideration under the Suckler Welfare Scheme. Payment issued for 42 of these animals on 29 January 2010 and payment for one further animal will issue in the next few days. Errors were identified with the remaining two animals and an official from my Department will be in contact with the applicant shortly with a view to resolving the outstanding matters.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

690 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the cow welfare scheme payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway for 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12515/10]

The person named had 10 animals for consideration under the Suckler Welfare Scheme for 2008. Payment has already been made for 5 of the animals. Errors were identified with the remaining 5 animals and an official from my Department will contact the applicant shortly in relation to these errors.

John O'Donoghue

Question:

691 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive their REP scheme payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12551/10]

Due to industrial action by staff in my Department, I am not in a position to provide a reply to this question.

John O'Donoghue

Question:

692 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive their REP three scheme payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12552/10]

Due to industrial action by staff in my Department, I am not in a position to provide a reply to this question.

Department Staff.

John O'Donoghue

Question:

693 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if a new district superintendent will be assigned to County Kerry in view of the backlog of REP scheme payments due to farmers in view of the fact that it is mainly as a result of the post remaining vacant for some time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12553/10]

As the Deputy will be aware there is a moratorium on recruitment and promotion in the public service. My Department has been seeking to put in place alternative arrangements to ensure the prompt processing of claims.

Crop Losses.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

694 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will agree to a meeting with an association (details supplied) to discuss their concerns over frost damage from winter 2009. [12554/10]

Following a preliminary assessment of the crop losses caused by the severe weather conditions in January, I announced, last month, the introduction of a limited scheme of financial assistance to certain potato and field vegetable growers who have suffered significant losses of produce due to frost damage.

It is not proposed to extend the scope of the scheme to include the nursery industry.

Question No. 695 answered with Question No. 680.

Grant Payments.

Ulick Burke

Question:

696 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Galway will be awarded single payment scheme for 2005 under the force majeure and exceptional circumstances which were outlined to his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12601/10]

The person named applied under the force majeure / exceptional circumstances provision of the Single payment scheme in 2004. To comply with the requirements of force majeure / exceptional circumstances, production in respect of arable area or stock numbers must have been affected by the occurrence of the force majeure / exceptional circumstances during one or more of the reference years 2000 2001 or 2002 and the circumstances must be sudden, unforeseen and beyond the control of the applicant.

The person named did not qualify under force majeure / exceptional circumstances at the time as the circumstances either significantly preceded the reference period 2000-2002 or they were not regarded as sudden and unforeseen.

The person named submitted an appeal to the Independent Appeals Committee who carried out a full review of the case and upheld my Department's decision.

Food Labelling.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

697 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he plans to take action regarding the description and labelling of Northern Ireland produced food at a supermarket (details supplied) as Irish, in order to give the impression to the consumer that the food is produced here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12611/10]

The Minister for Health & Children has overall responsibility for the general food labelling legislation. Responsibility for the enforcement of this legislation rests with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (F.S.A.I.). This is done through service contracts with other relevant agencies, including the Health Service Executive, the Local Authority Veterinary Service and my Department.

Under the general labelling Directive (2000/13/EC), the place of origin of the foodstuff must be given if its absence might mislead the consumer to a material degree. Any evidence of contravention of this requirement should be brought to the attention of the F.S.A.I.

Rural Environment Protection Scheme.

Denis Naughten

Question:

698 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the detail of the new environmental scheme to replace REP scheme four; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12645/10]

For applicants with land other than Natura or non-Natura commonage, the new scheme as approved by the European Commission consists of a menu of targeted actions designed to contribute in a measurable and verifiable way towards the targets of biodiversity, water quality and climate change as set out in the CAP Health Check. For Natura and commonage land, the new scheme includes a requirement to have sustainable management plans drawn up reflecting the particular environmental conditions of each such area and any restrictions on farming activity. I am planning to launch the scheme very shortly and full details including the list of eligible measures, payment rates and application procedures will be announced at that stage.

Live Exports.

Denis Naughten

Question:

699 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the procedure for obtaining a live export licence for livestock; his plans to review this procedure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12646/10]

Intra-community trade in livestock is governed by Council Directive 64/432/EEC (bovine and swine) and Council Directive 91/68/EEC (ovine and caprine). In order to export livestock, an exporter must obtain a health certificate for the animal/s intended for export. Following inspection if the animal/s meet the animal health requirements as set down in Community law, a Departmental Veterinary Inspector issues a health certificate. There are no current plans to review this procedure.

Grant Payments.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

700 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the REP scheme payment in respect of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12650/10]

Due to industrial action by staff in my Department, I am not in a position to provide a reply to this question.

Michael Ring

Question:

701 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive the hardship grant payment from the inheritance unit. [12673/10]

Due to industrial action by staff in my Department, I am not in a position to provide a detailed reply to this question. However, if the person concerned contacts her local District Veterinary Office, she will be advised of the position.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

702 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the 2009 cow welfare scheme payment will be awarded in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12683/10]

Due to industrial action by staff in my Department, I am not in a position to provide a reply to this question.

Michael Creed

Question:

703 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding entitlement to payment under a herd number in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; if, in view of the financial circumstances which are known to officials in his Department regarding this herd number, he will arrange for resolution to this impasse immediately; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12688/10]

Due to industrial action by staff in my Department, I am not in a position to provide a reply to this question.

Fisheries Protection.

Joe McHugh

Question:

704 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will introduce a new scheme for smaller fishing boats operating within clear quota that will enable owners of small boats to fish native species within designated fishing zones along the Irish coast for 2010; if he accepts that small boats are relatively less important in the context of fish stocks depletion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12705/10]

Due to Industrial Action by staff in my Department, I am not in a position to provide a reply to this question.

Grant Payments.

Michael Ring

Question:

705 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their suckler cow welfare scheme payment. [12724/10]

Due to industrial action by staff in my Department, I am not in a position to provide a reply to this question.

Phil Hogan

Question:

706 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a REP scheme four payment will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12727/10]

Due to industrial action by staff in my Department, I am not in a position to provide a reply to this question.

Departmental Offices.

Martin Ferris

Question:

707 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the details of consultations or discussions which took place with farming organisation representatives on the closure of his Department’s offices with particular reference to Sligo and to Ballina, County Mayo. [12748/10]

The closures of my Department's local offices in Sligo and Ballina are taking place as part of a major rationalisation plan for my Department that was approved by Government last year. This rationalisation process involves a comprehensive restructuring of the Department's local office network in order to provide a fully integrated service to our farming clients and the wider agri-food and rural environmental sectors at regional level. The plan involves reducing, from 57 to 16, the number of offices from which the Department will operate District Veterinary, Forestry and Agricultural Environment and Structures support services in the future. This will result in a reduction of some 400 in the number of staff working in my Department. This reorganisation will yield significant savings for the exchequer.

The decision to close some forty offices of my Department was made only after a detailed study of the Department's operations at local level had been completed. Decisions were made in relation to the overall strategy and against a background of major changes in the Department's operating environment in recent years brought about by the impact of the Single Farm Payment, benefits derived from substantial investment in Information Communications Technology and significant reductions in the incidence of disease. These improvements in business processes, information technology and communications will allow my Department to provide to all of our clients, the full range of services from the 16 enhanced offices set out in the plan.

The closure of offices in Sligo and Ballina will result in the transfer of work to Drumshanbo, Co Leitrim and Castlebar, Co Mayo, respectively. All farmers in the county are notified prior to the closure of offices informing them of the changes and providing them with a Lo-call telephone number for their new regional office. The 16 enhanced regional offices will offer a comprehensive "one stop shop" service to all our clients encompassing the work of the District Veterinary Office, Integrated Controls and Agricultural Environment and Structures support services. In addition our farming clients will be able to access information relating to applications for Single Farm Payment from their regional office where previously they had to contact my Department's office in Portlaoise for such information.

Crop Losses.

Phil Hogan

Question:

708 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will include the recent weather damaged fodder beet as part of the compensation package scheme that was announced in respect of potato crops; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12749/10]

Following a preliminary assessment of the crop losses caused by the severe weather conditions in January, I announced, last month, the introduction of a limited scheme of financial assistance to certain potato and field vegetable growers who have suffered significant losses of produce due to frost damage.

It is not proposed to extend the scope of the scheme to include fodder beet.

Ministerial Travel.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

709 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the estimated cost in relation to foreign travel, accommodation and related ministerial and official costs associated with Saint Patrick’s Day 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12810/10]

All the costs associated with my official duties in Italy from St. Patrick's Day related events have not yet been invoiced to my Department.

Grant Payments.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

710 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of farmers who are still owed REP scheme four on a county basis; his views on the fact that some of these farm families are under severe cash flow pressure; if he will provide the necessary extra personnel in areas in which there are undue delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12919/10]

Out of 28,842 farmers due payments in REPS 4, 19,951 had been paid in full as of 22 March 2010. Due to industrial action by staff in my Department, I am not in a position to provide a breakdown by county of the cases still outstanding.

To meet the requirements of EU regulations, applications for REPS payments have to go through an exhaustive series of administrative checks before payment can be released. In a significant number of cases, those checks raised issues and queries which required further detailed examination. Department staff are working to resolve these as quickly as possible. Many of these cases will, however, require the applicants' planners to amend the farm plans that were submitted originally. The persons concerned have been made aware of the position and the applications will be further processed without delay on receipt of amended plans.

In a small number of local offices, the processing of payments has been delayed by staffing issues arising from the moratorium on recruitment and promotions in the public service and the Department is attempting to resolve these difficulties. My objective is to ensure that all outstanding claims are processed to payment stage as quickly as possible.

School Services Staff.

Thomas Byrne

Question:

711 Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans for the remuneration of school secretaries; his further plans to bring this remuneration in line with the pay of equivalent staff of comparable level in Departments. [12387/10]

In the context of the Towards 2016 Review and Transitional Agreement in 2008, it was agreed that the relevant parties would enter into discussions regarding the terms and conditions, including remuneration, of both school secretaries and caretakers.

Following ratification of the Transitional Agreement by the Unions in November 2008, a forum was set up in December 2008 under whose auspices these discussions could be furthered. The forum is jointly chaired by my Department and the Department of Finance, and also comprises the relevant School Management Bodies, and the relevant Unions (IMPACT and SIPTU).

As a first step, the forum decided to establish the factual position regarding the terms and conditions of employment of school secretaries and caretakers by conducting a comprehensive survey of schools. This survey was then developed by my Department, in consultation with the other members of the forum. As there are established terms and conditions for secretaries and caretakers employed in the Community & Comprehensive sector and the VEC sector, it was decided that the survey should only cover the primary and voluntary post-primary sectors.

This survey was then issued to all relevant schools on Monday, 20 April 2009. The results of the survey are currently being compiled by my Department and, once available, will inform the deliberations of the forum.

As the discussions of the forum are currently in progress it would not be appropriate for me to make any further comment at this time.

School Management.

James Bannon

Question:

712 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Education and Science the measures that he will put in place to offset the adverse effects of the dismantling of the middle management structure in the vocational education schools with a resulting increased workload for principals and deputy principals; if his attention has been drawn to the impact on the pastoral welfare of students and issues in relation to health and safety, particularly in relation to two schools (details supplied) in County Westmeath. [12541/10]

When the moratorium was introduced the Government exempted Principal and Deputy Principal appointments in all primary and post-primary schools and these continue to be replaced in the normal manner. The impact of the moratorium is therefore limited to the Assistant Principal and Special Duties allowances payable to teachers on promotion.

Unlike other areas of the public service retirement vacancies are actually being filled and what the school loses is the capacity to make a promotion by awarding the extra pay allowance to another teacher. The position whereby just over 50% of all teachers have promotion allowances is simply not sustainable.

I do recognise that the impact of the moratorium is uneven across schools and as I have already acknowledged the impact is not just due to the level of retirements but also as a consequence of promotions that are made to principal and deputy principal posts. Further retirements and promotions later this year will impact further on middle management posts. As I have indicated previously to the House I am prepared to look at this and see what limited interim alleviation can be given to deal with those cases while the overall number of promotion positions continues to reduce.

My Department, like other Government Departments, is in discussions with the Department of Finance in relation to a Public Sector Numbers Control Framework. It is only in the context of such a framework for the education sector and where an overall long term reduction in the number of promotion allowances is brought about that the position of some individual schools could be addressed for September next.

Departmental Staff.

John Cregan

Question:

713 Deputy John Cregan asked the Minister for Education and Science if a person (details supplied) in County Limerick will have their two years reckonable service with the Salmon Research Trust of Ireland transferred to the Limerick Institute of Technology; and when this will be finalised. [12615/10]

The pension schemes of both organisations where the person was employed are covered by the Public Sector Transfer Network and I understand that the Department of Finance has confirmed that, subject to establishing the exact amount, the service may be transferred for superannuation purposes. It is a matter in the first instance for the organisations involve to finalise the transfer.

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the full details sought by the Deputy.

Mitchell Scholarships.

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

714 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount spent on each scholar from the Mitchell Scholarship Fund; the salary of the president of the United States Ireland Alliance; the amount spent on expenses and the way that they are accounted; and if he will make a statement on the material benefit of this scheme to Ireland. [12910/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the full details sought by the Deputy.

School Accommodation.

Joe Carey

Question:

715 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of devolved grants for the development of additional classrooms which were approved for schools in County Clare in the years 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 in tabular form; the schools involved; the work completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12225/10]

The devolved scheme for the provision of additional classrooms allows those schools with an urgent and pressing need for additional accommodation which is likely to last for more than 3 years, and which are being given approval for grant aid, to avail of the option of using their grants either to purchase prefabs or to construct permanent classrooms for the same amount.

Funding is approved on a devolved basis for both options and it is then a matter for the schools to decide which option to pursue. Schools may claim the first portion of the grant when the building works commence, 70% of the cost of the project, subject to receipt of the necessary certification and the balance when the project is completed.

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to provide the detailed information sought by the Deputy.

Joe Carey

Question:

716 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science the schools that qualify for consideration for a devolved grant for the provision of additional classrooms; the plans he has to change the qualifying criteria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12226/10]

It is open to any school needing extra classrooms to apply for devolved funding to meet their needs.

Generally, where a need for extra accommodation has been demonstrated and that need is likely to be for three years or less, approval will be given to rent the accommodation. Where the need for the accommodation is likely to exceed three years in duration, the Department will devolve funding to a school authority giving it the option to purchase or build the accommodation needed.

As a three year period has been identified as a break even point from a value for money perspective, my Department has no plans to change its approach in this matter.

Schools Building Projects.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

717 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding a school building project (details supplied) in County Kildare; when the construction of a new school, already planned, will now be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12250/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give full details of the project for the school referred to by the Deputy.

The progression of all large scale building projects, including the project for the school in question, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression the project at this time.

Adult Education.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

718 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the success of the Ballyfermot College of Further Education, Dublin 10, in having past pupils nominated for three Oscar awards recently and the fact that one won the much coveted Best Visual Effects Oscar in 2010, he will acknowledge the value of post-leaving certificate courses at this college; if he will increase the numbers of students the college can enrol in view of the fact that in 2009 less than a quarter of applicants for the courses could be accepted, and of the increased profile following the Oscar win will make the courses there even more sought after; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12273/10]

I would like to congratulate the learners involved on their Oscar nominations and to congratulate in particular the winner of the 2010 Best Visual Effects Oscar. We are very proud of their achievements and as Minister for Lifelong Learning, I am very proud of the important role played by further education in their lifelong learning journey. They are a credit to themselves and their families and I would wish them all well in their future endeavours.

The Deputy will be aware that the overall number of approved Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) places is set at its current level of 31,688 (including an additional 1,500 places allocated as part of the 2009 Supplementary Budget) because there is a continuing requirement to plan and control numbers and to manage expenditure within the context of overall educational policy and provision. This overall number of approved PLC places is being maintained for the next academic year (2010/2011).

PLC places are allocated to providers (mainly VECs) on an annual basis following an application process. It is a matter for VECs to allocate places to their colleges and institutions. Each application is examined by my Department on its merits, taking into account current and previous allocations, current and previous demand and uptake, the overall places available and the overall demand from VECs generally. Regard is also had in this context to ensuring appropriate provision on a geographic basis and the necessary critical mass for delivery of a quality education service. However, it is not possible to approve all the places applied for by providers in any given year.

Ballyfermot College is one of the PLC Colleges operated by City of Dublin VEC. For the current academic year (2009/2010), City of Dublin VEC was allocated a total of 7,538 PLC places (including 180 of the additional 1,500 places referred to above). Any application by City of Dublin VEC for additional PLC places for 2010/2011 will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the constraints outlined above.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

719 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of post-leaving certificate places available in each college; and the number of applicants for each college term 2009/2010. [12274/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the details sought by the Deputy.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

720 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps that he has taken to remove or change the cap of 13,000 on available post-leaving certificate places which is preventing thousands of young persons from gaining the education required to prepare for jobs as the recession abates. [12275/10]

There are currently 31,688 approved Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) places nationwide. This includes an additional 1,500 places approved in the context of the Supplementary Budget in April 2009. The 2010 budget for my Department has been framed on the basis that the approved number of PLC places for the next academic year will remain at 31,688. The overall number of approved PLC places is set at its current level because there is a continuing requirement to plan and control public service numbers and to manage expenditure within the context of overall educational policy and provision.

Departmental Property.

Seán Connick

Question:

721 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of buildings his Department are renting within the State; the rental costs of these rentals in 2009; the average length of the leases of these buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12286/10]

The renting of office property is the responsibility of the Property Management Services, Office of Public Works, which acts as an agent for all Government Departments. The terms of the leases are a matter for the OPW.

Departmental Agencies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

722 Deputy Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of staff in his Department, and any agency under his remit, who are primarily employed in one of a number of areas (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12301/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the details sought by the Deputy.

Redundancy Payments.

John O'Mahony

Question:

723 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Education and Science the redundancy entitlement of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12313/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to provide the information on the case as requested by the Deputy.

Schools Building Projects.

Brian Hayes

Question:

724 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will confirm that all new schools built have access to a rain harvesting facility. [12319/10]

Rainwater harvesting systems were first introduced for major building projects in 2008. Since then all major building projects, where site conditions and circumstances allow and where economically viable to do so, can incorporate a rainwater harvesting system into their brief.

Higher Education Grants.

Willie Penrose

Question:

725 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science the financial assistance that will be given to a person (details supplied) who wishes to return to college to study mechanical engineering and thereby work in the renewal energy industry; if, in view of the circumstances the direction will be given to them as the way they might be in a position to achieve their ambition and objectives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12323/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to address details of the case referred to by the Deputy.

Pension Provisions.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

726 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the pension entitlements for a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12324/10]

The person in question retains no entitlement to an occupational pension in respect of his service as a secondary school teacher.

The person left teaching at the end of July 1976 before reaching pension age. Subsequent to his leaving, preservation of pension benefits was introduced for teachers. Under this provision a person leaving service on or after 30 June 1977 but before pension age, may preserve his/her benefits and qualify for pension on application when s/he reaches age 60, or, in the case of a new entrant to the public service after 1 April 2004, age 65. On leaving, on or after 30 June 1977, a person had to have completed at least five years of pensionable service to avail of preservation. For persons leaving from 2 June 2002 that threshold has been reduced to two years pensionable service.

Since the person in question had left service before 30 June 1977 he cannot benefit from preservation. If, subsequent to July 1976 the person in question took up pensionable employment in a public sector organisation he should provide the details to the Pensions Section of my department which will examine whether it might be possible to transfer his pensionable teaching service to that organisation.

Special Educational Needs.

Joe McHugh

Question:

727 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science the elements of the Education for Persons with Special Education Needs Act that have been implemented to date; when the Act will be fully implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12376/10]

A significant number of sections of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs (EPSEN) Act have already been commenced, principally those establishing the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) and those promoting an inclusive approach to the education of children with special educational needs. Specifically, the following sections have been commenced — 1, 2, 14(1)(a), 14(1)(c), 14(2) to 14(4), 19 to 37, 40 to 53.

In the light of the current financial circumstances, it was not possible to proceed with full implementation of the Act in 2010 as had been originally envisaged. As the Deputy is aware, the commitment in the renewed Programme for Government is to develop, in consultation with stakeholders, a costed multi-annual plan to implement some priority aspects of the EPSEN Act, focussing on measurable, practical progress in education and health services for children with special needs.

This process will require discussions with the education partners, as well as the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the Department of Health and Children. All parts of the EPSEN legislation, which have not been commenced to date, will be considered during this process. Until this costed, multi-annual plan is prepared and finalised, the Deputy will appreciate that it is not possible for me to say when the remaining sections of EPSEN will be implemented. I wish to assure the Deputy that the Government remains committed to the implementation of EPSEN at the earliest possible date.

In the meantime, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) will continue to support schools, parents and children, and teachers and special needs supports will continue to be deployed to schools in line with my Department's policies.

School Transport.

Michael Creed

Question:

728 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Education and Science when he plans to re-instate a school transport service (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12396/10]

Under the terms of the Section 1.4 of the primary school transport scheme a service may be continued for as long as there are four eligible children and a minimum of six fare-paying children availing of the service.

My Department examined this case in great detail in conjunction with Bus Éireann, which operates the School Transport Scheme, on behalf of my Department. Bus Éireann advised that the number of children offering for transport from the area referred to by the Deputy, in the details supplied, has fallen below the minimum number required to maintain this service. As a result, and in accordance with the terms of the Primary School Transport Scheme, the service was withdrawn with effect from the commencement of the current school year. This position will of course be reviewed should a sufficient number of eligible children apply for transport at a future date.

In the case of those children who are eligible for school transport and had been availing of the service up to now, parents have been advised that they may apply for a remote area grant towards the cost of making private transport arrangements.

School Completion Programme.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

729 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if teachers on secondment to school completion programmes are being forced to return to ordinary teaching duties; his views on a case (details supplied) in County Wexford; if there are any alternative options available for school completion programmes to recruit staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12410/10]

The School Completion Programme (SCP) is my Department's programme for tackling early school leaving. The programme targets young people between the ages of 4 and 18 years and supports 468 primary and 223 post-primary schools in 124 School Completion Programme sites across 26 counties.

Each School Completion project employs a local Coordinator to run the project at local level. Project coordinators come from a variety of backgrounds including youth, community and social work. Teacher qualifications are not regarded by my Department as essential or necessary prerequisites for appointment to the post of Project Coordinator. At present only 14 of the 124 SCP coordinators are teachers, all of whom are seconded from permanent posts in schools. Not one of these coordinators have been replaced at this time.

My Department will continue to prioritise the secondment of teachers to positions within National Programmes where such positions will substantially require teacher qualifications. As the project coordinator positions do not fall within this category the secondments will not be renewed when they lapse in August 2010. No new secondments to the position of Coordinator will be entered into.

From 1 September 2010, project coordinators who are seconded from schools may elect to return to their teaching duties or alternatively they may choose to continue their employment with the School Completion Project. Those coordinators who choose to remain in the employ of the School Completion Project will no longer benefit from a secondment arrangement with their school.

School Completion Programme project staff are subject to the terms of the Moratorium on Recruitment and Promotion in the Public Service. My Department is currently in discussion with the Department of Finance to consider how future vacancies in the projects can be resolved in the context of the Employment Control Framework to be agreed for the Education Sector.

Schools Recognition.

Mary Upton

Question:

730 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied) in relation to the need for a Gaelcholaiste in south Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12413/10]

The Forward Planning Section of my Department is in the process of carrying out detailed analysis of over 40 locations of highest population growth in order to identify the school accommodation requirements up to and including the school year 2014/2015.

When the required reports have been completed for these initial areas selected the Forward Planning Section will continue to work on preparing reports on a priority basis for the remainder of the country.

Overall post-primary accommodation requirements in the area referred to by the Deputy, including the case for the provision of a new Irish language post-primary school, will be considered in this regard.

School Staffing.

Brian Hayes

Question:

731 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of teachers that have been vetted by the Garda vetting unit to date at both primary and post primary level; the procedure for vetting ancillary staff in schools such as special needs assistants, caretakers and secretaries; if such staff are also vetted by the Garda vetting unit; the number that have been vetted to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12414/10]

The arrangements for vetting of teaching and non-teaching staff are set out in Department Circular 0094/2006 which issued to all schools in June 2006. The Circular is available on my Department's website.

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the full details sought by the Deputy.

School Completion Programme.

Joe McHugh

Question:

732 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of persons involved in school completion programmes on a county basis; if plans exist to reduce the numbers on these programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12427/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the full details sought by the Deputy.

Higher Education Grants.

Pat Breen

Question:

733 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science if a student (details supplied) in County Clare will be facilitated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12446/10]

Students currently in receipt of the BTEA or VTOS allowances and the maintenance grant will continue to be eligible for both payments for the duration of their current course provided they continue to meet the terms and conditions of the relevant grant schemes.

Students progressing to a new course with effect from 2010/11 will no longer be eligible for student maintenance grants but can apply for assistance towards the cost of the student services charge and any fees payable.

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to address details of the case referred to by the Deputy.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Brian Hayes

Question:

734 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children in classes of 30 or more on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12448/10]

The Statistics Section of my Department's website contains information relating to class size in primary schools for the school years 2006/07 to 2008/09. Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the full details sought by the Deputy.

Schools Building Projects.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

735 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application for an extension in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Dublin; the position regarding the recent Stage 2(a) submission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12472/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give full details of the project for the school referred to by the Deputy.

The progression of all large scale building projects, including the project for the school in question, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression the project at this time.

Joe Carey

Question:

736 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress made to date in the provision of capital development money for a school (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12498/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give full details of the project for the school referred to by the Deputy. However, the Deputy will be aware that on 16 February 2010 I announced projects that will progress this year. Unfortunately, it was not possible to include the School to which he refers in this announcement. The progression of all large scale building projects, including the project for the school in question, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression the project at this time.

Pat Breen

Question:

737 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 439 of 10 November 2009, the position regarding a school building project (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12511/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give full details of the project for the school referred to by the Deputy. However, the Deputy will be aware that on 16 February 2010 I announced a number of major school building projects that will progress this year. Unfortunately, it was not possible to include the School to which he refers in this announcement.

The progression of all large scale building projects, including the project for the school in question, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

Thomas Byrne

Question:

738 Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress made to date on a proposed new school (details supplied) in County Meath; and when he expects construction to commence. [12516/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give full details of the proposed project for the school to which the Deputy refers. However, the progression of all large scale building projects, including the project in question, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. In view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression the project at this time.

School Accommodation.

Pat Breen

Question:

739 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will report on the number of prefabs in use in secondary schools in County Clare; the annual cost per unit of rental per school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12517/10]

The overall policy goal of my Department is to ensure the highest standard of permanent accommodation for all schools. However, in the context of a rapidly increasing school population and competing pressure on the capital budget available to my Department, it is necessary to make use of temporary accommodation in order to meet the accommodation needs of schools. During 2009, 222 schools have been approved funding for the purchase of prefabricated classrooms, with the option of building a permanent rooms. 68 of the approved schools have indicated to my Department that they intend purchasing prefabs and 94 intend to use the grant-aid to build a permanent room. The remaining schools have not yet indicated their preference. Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to provide the detailed information sought by the Deputy.

Schools Building Projects.

Pat Breen

Question:

740 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools in County Clare, both primary and secondary, that have made applications for school building projects; the band rating applied to these projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12518/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give full details of the project for the school referred to by the Deputy. However, the Deputy will be aware that all applications for Capital Funding, their address and assigned band rating are listed on my Department's website. The progression of all large scale building projects, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of projects at this time.

Home Tuition Scheme.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

741 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the delay in issuing payment to parents for approved home tuition in respect of children with special educational needs; when he expects that payment will issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12525/10]

The home tuition scheme provides funding to parents to provide education at home for children who, for a number of reasons such as chronic illness, are unable to attend school. The scheme was extended in recent years to facilitate tuition for children awaiting a suitable educational placement. Home tuition grants are paid to the parents, who in turn make payment to the home tuition provider. Payment of grant aid under the Home Tuition Scheme is made by my Department upon receipt of a completed claim form from the parent. If the claim is in order, payment normally issues within four weeks of receipt. Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am unable to provide specific details on the length of time it is currently taking to process grant payments to parents of children in receipt of home tuition.

Schools Building Projects.

Joe Carey

Question:

742 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 267 of 2 December 2009, if this report has been completed; the schools in County Clare that have been identified in the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12533/10]

The Forward Planning Section of my Department is in the process of carrying out detailed analysis of over 40 locations of highest population growth in order to identify the school accommodation requirements up to and including the school year 2014/2015. Given the increase in the birth rate in recent years the initial focus of this analysis is on primary school accommodation requirements. This will be followed by a more detailed analysis of post-primary school accommodation requirements. Overall educational accommodation requirements in the area referred to will be considered in this regard given that the area has experienced significant population growth. The primary schools identified in the report into the area concerned are:

Toonagh N S (M) 03898U

Holy Family Snr (M) (S) 07315N

Ballyea Mixed N S (M) 13418J

Kilnamona N S (M) 13625O

Kilmaley N S (M) 14468G

Eidhneach N S (M) 14622N

S N Mhainistir Chuinche (M) 14757N

Barefield Mixed N S (M) 14830U

Ennis N S (M) 15042A

Clooney N S (M) 15279I

Connolly N S (M) 15408Q

Inch N S (M) 16186G

Bunscoil Na Mbráithre (M) 16677C

Clarecastle B N S (M) 17026M

S N Cnoc An Éin (M) 17583V

Ennis Convent Inf N S (M) (J) 17957N

S N Mhuire Corafine (M) 18227E

S N Cathair Aodha (M) 18541K

Lissycasey N S (M) 18555V

S N Dubh Rath (M) 18696Q

Ruan Central NS (M) 19442N

Inchicronan Central NS (M) 19551S

Chríost Rí (M) 19559L

Gael SC Mhichil Chíosóg (M) 19838P

Ennis Educate Together NS (M) 20086B

Proposed Legislation.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

743 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if it is his intention to have the Student Support Bill enacted in time for the 2010-2011 academic year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12547/10]

The Deputy will be aware that a number of amendments to the Student Support Bill in relation to legal and policy issues which have arisen since Second Stage are being advanced by my Department in close consultation with the Office of the Attorney General. In light of the commitment to put the grants on a statutory footing, I am anxious to provide a statutory basis for all student grants, pending transition to new administrative arrangements. This transitional period will necessitate retention of the existing administrative structures in the immediate term. In bringing amendments to Committee Stage, I will therefore be endeavouring to provide for existing administrative arrangements for this transitional phase, while progressing to a single scheme of grants as provided for in the Bill at the earliest possible date.

In the context of the Government's wider programme of public service reform, I am also re-assessing organisational options for the grants administration function in the longer run, with a view to revisiting the current proposals provided for in the Bill. Possible options for a more significant centralisation of functions are now being explored with a view to streamlining operations and maximising administrative efficiency. This examination is being undertaken as part of a business process re-engineering exercise being conducted under the Transforming Public Services agenda.

These developments have required consideration of a complex set of legal options in relation to further amendment of the Bill and my Department has been working closely with the Office of the Attorney General to address the issues in that regard. I would like to assure the Deputy that these proposed amendments are now at an advanced stage of preparation and it will be my intention to proceed with the Bill on this basis in the shortest possible timeframe. Subject to the technical, drafting and legal considerations arising, my Department hopes to be in a position to have these amendments advanced sufficiently in order to move to Committee Stage as early as possible in the current session.

Special Educational Needs.

Brian Hayes

Question:

744 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of special education needs organisers in each year from 2007 on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12588/10]

Brian Hayes

Question:

745 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of applications from primary schools to special education needs organisers for additional teaching support which have been made each year since 2006 to date in 2010; the percentage of these applications which have been granted, refused or partly granted every year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12589/10]

Brian Hayes

Question:

746 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of applications to special education needs organisers from primary schools for special needs assistance support which have been made each year since 2006 to date in 2010; the percentage of these applications which have been granted, refused or partly granted every year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12590/10]

Brian Hayes

Question:

747 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of applications from post-primary schools to special educational needs organisers for additional teaching support which have been made each year since 2006 to date in 2010; the percentage of these applications which have been granted, refused or partly granted every year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12591/10]

Brian Hayes

Question:

748 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of applications to special educational needs organisers from post-primary schools for special needs assistance support which have been made each year since 2006 to date in 2010; the percentage of these applications which have been granted, refused or partly granted every year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12592/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 744 to 748, inclusive, together.

As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENO) for allocating resource teachers and special needs assistants to schools to support children with special needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support. The information sought by the Deputy is not held in my Department and he may wish to liaise directly with the NCSE in the context of his enquiry, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.

Schools Refurbishment.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

749 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application for the summer works scheme by a school (details supplied) in County Cork; and when he expects to be in a position to approve same. [12610/10]

Applications under the Summer Works Scheme for 2010 are currently being assessed in my Department. Following the assessment process, projects will be selected for funding from all valid and approved applications on a top down basis in accordance with the prioritisation criteria published with the Scheme. In keeping with the timetable published with the governing Circular letter, I expect to be in a position to publish the list of successful applicants later this month.

Tom Sheahan

Question:

750 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will include schools (details supplied) in the summer works programme in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12616/10]

Applications under the Summer Works Scheme for 2010 are currently being assessed in my Department. Following the assessment process, projects will be selected for funding from all valid and approved applications on a top down basis in accordance with the prioritisation criteria published with the Scheme. In keeping with the timetable published with the governing Circular letter, I expect to be in a position to publish the list of successful applicants later this month.

Schools Building Projects.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

751 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding a new school building project at a school (details supplied) in County Cavan; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that prefabs are in use at the school for 30 years and that management were led to believe that the project was ready to go ahead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12649/10]

The sequence for projects which have been approved to progress after the completion of the design stage, is the tender stage followed by the construction stage. Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the full details sought by the Deputy.

Higher Education Grants.

James Bannon

Question:

752 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Longford has been refused grant assistance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12652/10]

The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the relevant assessing authority, i.e. the applicant's local authority or VEC. An applicant may appeal the decision to the relevant local authority or VEC. Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to address details of the case referred to by the Deputy.

School Staffing.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

753 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if in view of his decision to abolish the supply teacher panel, he will provide details of the findings of the Talbot report in respect of the percentage of teachers’ time used to cover sick leave in each of the panel areas; the cost of operating each panel per annum; the projected savings in each panel area following abolition of the panel and the basis for these calculations; his views on whether abolishing the panel is unlikely to result in savings in view of the costs of casual substitutes cover; and if he will reconsider this decision. [12665/10]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

754 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will publish the Talbot review on the supply teacher scheme. [12666/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 753 and 754 together.

The supply teacher scheme was initially set up at primary level over 15 years ago at a time when schools had difficulty getting substitute teachers. The supply scheme operates on the basis of an additional full-time teacher being allocated to a school to cover certified sick leave absences in that school and a cluster of neighbouring schools. If the teacher is not required on a given day to cover sick leave absences they generally assist with other work in their school such as administrative duties. There are 60 posts allocated to the scheme.

A value for money review was published in July 2006 and is available on my Department's website. The review found that approximately 60% of these teachers' time was used to cover sick leave absences with the balance on various other school duties. This reflects the unpredictable nature of sick leave absences. While there are benefits for schools in having these full-time teachers it is considered more cost effective to use the normal substitution arrangements that apply to all other schools to cover sick leave absences instead of having a cohort of full-time teachers ‘‘on call'' all the time in these schools to cover sick leave absences that may or may not arise.

The supply teacher scheme will cease from the start of the 2010/11 school year. The teachers concerned will be redeployed in accordance with the existing redeployment arrangements to other schools that have vacancies. It is expected that this measure will save €0.4m in 2010 and €1.1m in a full year. Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the full details sought by the Deputy.

Adult Education.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

755 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department has received an application (details supplied) under the once off initiative programme; if a decision has been made on this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12681/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the full details sought by the Deputy.

Schools Building Projects.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

756 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason the design team to initiate the architectural planning of the extension to a college (details supplied) in County Cork has not been appointed in view of the fact that many commitments have been given in this regard over the years; and if he will now confirm that there will be no further delay. [12694/10]

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

758 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the need for an extension at a college (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12707/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 756 and 758 together.

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give full details of the project for the school referred to by the Deputies. The progression of all large scale building projects, including the project for the school in question, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

757 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation regarding the application to provide additional permanent accommodation for a school (details supplied) in County Cork to replace the existing temporary accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12703/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give full details of the project for the school referred to by the Deputy The progression of all large scale building projects, including the project for the school in question, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

Question No. 758 answered with Question No. 756.

School Staffing.

Brian Hayes

Question:

759 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will introduce from September 2010, a new system of allocating teachers in schools who are over quota, such as where no redeployment has taken place, hours allocated to pupils with special needs as a means of reducing costs in the special needs area. [12710/10]

The issue raised by the Deputy would primarily arise at post-primary level. The system that he is seeking to introduce is already in place. Under current arrangements post-primary schools that are over quota have their allocations for pupils with special educational needs dealt with through the offsetting of existing over quota posts rather than the allocation of additional posts. This policy reduces the cost of providing for special needs in these schools.

Special Educational Needs.

Brian Hayes

Question:

760 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of special needs assistants redundancy payments that have been issued by his Department over the past 12 months; the cost to his Department in paying SNA redundancy lump sums over the period in question; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12711/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the details sought by the Deputy.

Higher Education Grants.

Frank Feighan

Question:

761 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Education and Science the grant assistance available to a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon who is in receipt of a lone parent payment if they return to college to pursue a third level qualification. [12714/10]

The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the relevant assessing authority, i.e. the applicant's local authority or VEC. An applicant may appeal the decision to the relevant local authority or VEC. Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to address details of the case referred to by the Deputy.

Second Level Schools.

Christy O'Sullivan

Question:

762 Deputy Christy O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the details of the boarding schools listed as Catholic boarding schools on his Department’s website that are free second level schools for day pupils and therefore eligible schools for pupils entitled to the remote area grant as per his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 217 of 17 February 2010. [12728/10]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the information he requires is available on my Department's website. Schools within the free education scheme that also have a boarding facility are assigned the classification "3" on the database of post-primary schools, which is found under the "Education Service Provider" heading.

Schools Building Projects.

David Stanton

Question:

763 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has received an application for major capital funding from a school (details supplied) in County Cork; if he will make arrangements for this application to be processed as quickly as possible with a view to making funding available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12733/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give full details of the project for the school referred to by the Deputy. The progression of all large scale building projects, including the project for the school in question, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

Higher Education Grants.

Kieran O'Donnell

Question:

764 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of third level grant aid for new and existing applicants in respect of third level grants who are in receipt of the back to education allowance, and in particular their entitlement to maintenance support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12736/10]

Students currently in receipt of the BTEA or VTOS allowances and the maintenance grant will continue to be eligible for both payments for the duration of their current course provided they continue to meet the terms and conditions of the relevant grant schemes. Students progressing to a new course with effect from 2010/11 will no longer be eligible for student maintenance grants but can apply for assistance towards the cost of the student services charge and any fees payable.

School Staffing.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

765 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has considered the implications of his decision to reduce the number of post-primary special, personal and health education support staff by 50; his views on whether this risks undoing the advances made in local drugs task force areas in recent years in terms of reducing the numbers of children at risk of becoming addicted to drugs; if he will reverse this cut and, if not, if he will make a commitment that there will be no further cuts to this programme. [12746/10]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

766 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will make a statement detailing the way in which he envisages that the prevention pillar of the national drugs strategy can be fully delivered upon following his decision to reduce the number of special, personal and health education support staff; and the way his Department will deliver on its responsibility to monitor the substance use policies of schools. [12747/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 765 and 766 together.

My Department is reconfiguring the delivery of support for teachers in light of the current resource available. However, the SPHE support service for post primary teachers is not being reduced from the current allocation. Although the Walk Tall Support Service will no longer exist in its current guise, it is my intention that the support for substance misuse prevention be further integrated into SPHE support. It is widely acknowledged that while a strand of SPHE can be taught in isolation, it should be linked to each of the other strands of the SPHE curriculum in order to be at its most effective.

Schools Building Projects.

Michael Kennedy

Question:

767 Deputy Michael Kennedy asked the Minister for Education and Science the status and provision for the building of a new school in north County Dublin (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12756/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give full details of the project for the school referred to by the Deputy. However, I can inform the Deputy that the school to which he refers was included in a bundle of 11 projects advertised on the Government's etenders website last week to commence the process of appointing a design team.

Sean Sherlock

Question:

768 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application for major capital funding and an application for the summer works scheme by a school (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12762/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give full details of the project for the school referred to by the Deputy. The progression of all large scale building projects, including the project for the school in question, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

With regard to the Summer Works Scheme 2010, the timetable has been published as part of the governing Circular Letter for the Scheme. This Circular Letter (0057/2009) is available on the Department's website www.education.ie. Following an assessment process, projects will be selected for funding from all valid and approved applications on a top down basis in accordance with the prioritisation criteria published with the Scheme. In accordance with the timetable, it is my intention to publish a list of successful SWS applicants shortly.

School Staffing.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

769 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the appointment of a sixth resource teacher for Travellers at a school (details supplied) in County Galway. [12763/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the full details sought by the Deputy.

Ministerial Travel.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

770 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the estimated cost in relation to foreign travel, accommodation and related ministerial and official costs associated with Saint Patrick’s Day 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12815/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the full details sought by the Deputy.

Third Level Fees.

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

771 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason that there is no tax relief on fees paid to a college (details supplied) for an Irish student who graduated from there with a degree in fashion design. [12911/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to address details of the case referred to by the Deputy.

Special Educational Needs.

Willie Penrose

Question:

772 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the fundamental importance of special needs teachers, he will take steps to review his decision to reduce the number of such teachers out of mainstream education due to the fact of the significant strides that have been made in recent years, whereby children with special needs were maintained in mainstream education with very positive results; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12916/10]

I wish to advise the Deputy that the policy in relation to the deployment of special needs teachers has not changed. No decision has been taken to reduce the level of learning support/resource teachers in mainstream schools. On the contrary, the level of learning support has increased at post-primary level. Special classes continue to be supported providing the enrolments warrant the provision of such classes.

The Deputy will be aware that special education continues to be a key Government policy. There has been unprecedented investment in providing supports for pupils with special needs in recent years. There are now about 20,000 adults in our schools working solely with pupils with special needs. This includes over 10,000 Special Needs Assistants (SNAs); 8,600 resource and learning support teachers; over 1,100 special school teachers and hundreds of other teachers in special classes. Over €1 billion is being spent in supporting special educational provision this year.

As well as this significant increase in the numbers of additional teachers and SNAs, much investment has taken place in the provision of transport, adapted school accommodation, assistive technology and specialist equipment. The National Council for Special Education will continue to support schools, parents, children and teachers and resources will continue to be allocated to schools to meet children's needs in line with my Department's policy.

Departmental Procurement.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

773 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Question No. 551 of 2 March 2010, if a company (details supplied) has always been able to furnish his Department with the correct certificate to ensure WEEE compliance; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the official WEEE register website shows this company has never been WEEE compliant; if he will reconsider its position on the personal computer framework; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12935/10]

My officials have raised this matter with the Department of Finance which understands that the WEEE Register Society has confirmed that all necessary documentation and payments have been received from the company concerned for relevant years.

School Accommodation.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

774 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if the Stepaside and Leopardstown area in County Dublin is one of the 40 areas of population growth being analysed to identify school accommodation requirements up to and including the secondary school years 2014 to 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12940/10]

The Forward Planning Section of my Department is in the process of carrying out detailed analysis of over 40 locations of highest population growth in order to identify the school accommodation requirements up to and including the school year 2014/2015. Given the increase in the birth rate in recent years the initial focus of this analysis is on primary school accommodation requirements and this will be followed by a more detailed analysis of post-primary school accommodation requirements. Overall educational accommodation requirements in the Stepaside area in County Dublin will be considered in this regard as this is in one of these locations of highest population growth.

When the required reports have been completed for these initial areas selected the Forward Planning Section will continue to work on preparing reports on a priority basis for the remainder of the country and the Leopardstown area will be analysed as part of this process. Any proposed building projects arising from the detailed studies carried out on those priority areas will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme for 2010 and subsequent years.

Schools Building Projects.

Phil Hogan

Question:

775 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science when finance will be allocated for the provision of permanent accommodation in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12948/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the full details sought by the Deputy. However, applications from schools for additional accommodation are currently being assessed. Schools will be notified of the outcome of their applications in due course. In addition, all applications received under the Summer Works Scheme for 2010 are also being assessed. Consistent with the timetable table published with the Scheme, it is my intention to announce a list of successful applicants later this month.

Special Educational Needs.

Pat Breen

Question:

776 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the filling of special needs assistant positions at a school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12970/10]

My Department is very supportive of the SNA scheme. It has been a key factor in both ensuring the successful integration of children with special educational needs into mainstream education and providing support to pupils enrolled in special schools and special classes. The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), is at present carrying out a review of SNA allocations in all schools with a view to ensuring that the criteria governing the allocation of such posts are properly met. This exercise may result in the identification of surplus posts which are in the system and which do not meet the current criteria — posts that have been retained when a pupil's care needs have diminished or where the pupil has left. At the same time the NCSE is allocating additional posts where the criteria are met.

There is no question of SNA posts being removed from schools where they continue to meet the scheme's criteria. However, there is also no question of posts being left in schools where they are deemed to be surplus to pupils' care needs. At a time of constrained resources it is essential that we ensure that public resources, both staff and resources, are deployed as effectively as possible. Resources left in an area that are not in accordance with criteria mean public resources are not available for another deserving area.

State Examinations.

Deirdre Clune

Question:

777 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Education and Science if the examination supports provided to a student (details supplied) in County Cork at junior certificate will be available for their leaving certificate examination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12978/10]

The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations including organising the holding of examinations and determining procedures in places where examinations are conducted including the supervision of examinations. I can inform the Deputy that the Commission operates a scheme of Reasonable Accommodations in the Certificate examinations. Applications for such accommodations are submitted by schools on behalf of their students. In view of this I have forwarded your query to the State Examinations Commission for direct reply to you.

Special Educational Needs.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

778 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the negotiations between his Department and a body (details supplied) in relation to applied behavioural analysis schools; if these negotiations have now been merged into another set of negotiations between his Department and a trade union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12982/10]

The Deputy will be aware that the 2007/2012 Programme for Government commits to the long-term funding for the centres that are currently in the ABA pilot scheme subject to agreement with my Department on standards that will enable them to be supported as primary schools for children with autism. I am pleased to advise that broad agreement has been reached on the core conditions to enable these centres to be recognised as special schools for children with autism and applications have been received for special school recognition from the centres in question. These schools, once recognised, will provide education for children with autism in line with my Department's policy. Detailed modalities relating to the transfer of staff are under consideration and it would be inappropriate for me to comment further in this regard.

Third Level Education.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

779 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has had a bilateral meeting with his Northern Ireland counterpart, the Minister for Employment and Learning, following a meeting on 16 February 2010 of the IBEC-CBI Joint Business Council and Universities Ireland at which concerns were raised in relation to the low numbers of undergraduate students crossing the Border to undertake studies in the other jurisdiction; if his attention has been drawn to the low number of Northern Ireland undergraduates attending universities here due to the variation in the evaluation of the leaving certificate examination results here and the A level examinations which apply to final year secondary school pupils in Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom; if these matters have been discussed by his officials with the Higher Education Authority here and with their counterparts in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13028/10]

I have not met with the Northern Ireland Minister for Employment and Learning, in the period since 16 February, 2010 but I have received a letter from Minister Empey dated 16 March 2010 which refers to a meeting between the Irish Business and Employers Federation, the Confederation of British Industry (IBEC-CBI) Joint Business Council and Universities Ireland which took place on 16 February 2010. I have not received any correspondence from either the IBEC-CBI Joint Business Council or Universities Ireland on the issue of student flows between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

A number of factors account for the differential in the flows of third level students between the Republic and Northern Ireland. These include for example, a long tradition of students from the border counties here attending higher education courses in the north, a lower rate of acceptance by students in Northern Ireland of places in Irish universities compared to Leaving Cert students, a concentration in demand from students in Northern Ireland for a small number of programmes such as medicine for which there is a very high overall level of demand and intensive marketing by U.K. universities (including those in Northern Ireland) here while some Irish universities may focus promotional efforts more on non-EU countries.

In relation to the evaluation of the Leaving Certificate Examinations and the A Level examinations for the purposes of entry to Irish universities, it should be noted that universities are autonomous academically independent institutions within the meaning of the Universities Act 1997 and my Department does not have any functions in relation to their admissions policies and criteria. However, I understand that the Irish Universities' Association (IUA) in the Republic and the Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) in Northern Ireland have recently corresponded about how the seven universities in the Republic will score the new A* grade at GCE A2 level. The IUA has confirmed that in 2010 the seven universities in the Republic of Ireland will be allocating 150 points to the A* grade, and 135 points to the A grade, and has conveyed its understanding to the CCEA that the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) will also be allocating the same points to these grades.

This information has been made publicly available by the universities to which most students from Northern Ireland apply through their websites, and has also been communicated directly by university admissions officers to students and guidance counsellors in Northern Ireland at various events. These decisions have been taken by all seven universities in the light of a number of trends in the GCE system and within the overall framework of university admissions processes in the Republic of Ireland.

Departmental Procurement.

Finian McGrath

Question:

780 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will support a matter (details supplied). [13031/10]

My officials would be happy to examine any proposals a business may wish to submit to the Department for consideration but it should be borne in mind that the procurement of goods and services by the Department must comply with the appropriate public procurement procedures.

Schools Building Projects.

Michael D'Arcy

Question:

781 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the case of a school (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13032/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give full details of the project for the school referred to by the Deputy. The progression of all large scale building projects, including the project for the school in question, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

James Bannon

Question:

782 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will provide funding for works at a school (detail supplied) in County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13038/10]

Due to industrial action on the part of some staff in the Department of Education and Science, I am not in a position to give the full details sought by the Deputy. The progression of all large scale building projects, including the project for the school in question, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

National Drugs Strategy.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

783 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will explain the reason for the halving of the budgetary provision for 2010 of an organisation (details supplied) in Dublin 24; his views on whether this cut is likely to terminate a most worthwhile project; the alternatives that are available to the person with valuable accumulated experience to keep this organisation in existence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13039/10]

My Department provides funds for over thirty projects in Local Drugs Task Force areas, including the project specifically referred to by the Deputy. In the context of the budget for 2010 and the difficult fiscal climate, it was decided that funding for these projects was to be reduced from €3,643,000 in 2009 to €2,461,000 in 2010 and to cease from 2011. While the overall reduction in the 2010 allocation is 32%, the percentage reduction for projects funded through County Dublin VEC varied, to allow for the retention of a minimum of one employee per project.

My Department is currently reviewing the implications of the budget decisions relating to funding allocations for all of these projects. A key aspect of the review is to determine whether my Department is the appropriate location for these projects or whether funding could more appropriately be channelled through another Department or agency. The Department will submit recommendations for my consideration based on the review which, it is anticipated, will be completed shortly.

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