Willie Penrose
Question:57 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Defence his plans for vessel replacement in the Naval Service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15623/10]
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 11, inclusive, answered orally.
Questions Nos. 12 to 48, inclusive, resubmitted.
Questions Nos. 49 to 56, inclusive, answered orally.
Naval Service Vessels.
A vessel replacement strategy for the Naval Service is currently in progress following the commencement of a tender competition in 2007. The competition sought tenders for the purchase of two Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), with an option for a third, and one Extended Patrol Vessel (EPV), with an option for a second. The process comprised two stages — Stage 1, a Request for Proposals and Stage 2, an Invitation to Tender.
During 2008, Stage 1 of the tender process was completed and, insofar as the OPVs are concerned, tenders were received in response to Stage 2. Following tender evaluation, a preferred bidder was selected last year and detailed and extensive contract negotiations are now very close to conclusion. The decision to proceed with the final award of contract to purchase the OPVs will be subject to Government approval and agreement on funding. Subject to such approval, delivery of the new vessels would be expected to commence on a phased basis from 2014.
This strategy combined with a continuous process of refurbishment and repair will ensure that the operational capability of the Naval Service is maintained at a satisfactory level. The acquisition of modern new vessels will ensure that the Service will be fully equipped to carry out its day to day roles in enforcing the State's sovereign rights over our waters and our fisheries and meeting Ireland's obligations in the area of maritime safety and security and fisheries protection.
Overseas Missions.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:58 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Defence if the Defence Forces are likely to be redeployed to Chad in the foreseeable future; and if there are any requests from the United Nations for their deployment elsewhere. [15598/10]
Frank Feighan
Question:69 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Defence the number of contracts received by his Department or other Departments requesting Ireland to maintain its membership of MINURCAT beyond the withdrawal timetable announced; the number of requests suggesting a stay on the decision to withdraw; the nature and frequency of the contacts by the United Nations and or its office holders and personnel requesting either a maintenance of the mission or a stay on the decision to withdraw; if, within those contacts, criticisms were made of the manner and or timing of the announcement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15676/10]
Joe McHugh
Question:82 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Defence if he is liasing with the United Nations and or the European Union to enable participation at battalion level in peace support missions; if his attention has been drawn to the importance of such missions for the maintenance and development of the Defence Forces and its experience and skillsets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15698/10]
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:91 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Defence his plans for the deployment of Irish troops to overseas missions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15594/10]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:180 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the number of overseas locations to which Irish peacekeeping troops are currently deployed; the extent to which such deployments continue to remain of sufficient strength to enable such deployments to be independent, self-supporting and self-sufficient in all eventualities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16092/10]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:181 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent, if any, to which further requests have been received through the EU and UN for Irish troop deployments and peacekeeping or other missions overseas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16093/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 58, 69, 82, 91, 180 and 181 together.
In reply to earlier Priority Questions, I have dealt comprehensively with the decision by the Government on 30 March 2010 to withdraw the Irish contingent from the United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic and Chad (MINURCAT) and the reasons for that decision. I can assure the House that it was not a decision the Government wanted to have to make and I personally regret that the situation for MINURCAT in Chad has come to this. Ireland has a long and well-regarded history of participation in UN Peacekeeping missions and we continue to fully support the UN in its peacekeeping efforts. Ireland's absolute preference would have been to continue to fully participate with the MINURCAT mission. However, the current lack of certainty regarding the continuation of the mission mandate, and the approach of the rainy season forced the decision on Government to withdraw the Irish contingent.
Following the withdrawal of the MINURCAT contingent, the Defence Forces will undertake the essential and extensive maintenance of equipment. We will also start the process of examining further options for Defence Forces overseas operations. I would like to assure the House that I am aware that participation in overseas operations over the years has given Defence Forces personnel the opportunity to develop skills and competencies through practice in actual operational situations. Indeed, over the years Ireland has built up a fine reputation in the field of international peacekeeping and a considerable volume of international goodwill has resulted.
Ireland has offered, through the UN Standby Arrangements System (UNSAS), to provide up to 850 military personnel for overseas service at any one time. This figure equates to some 10% of Ireland's standing Army (excluding Reserves) and demonstrates Ireland's commitment to the cause of international peace. This is the maximum sustainable commitment that Ireland can make to overseas peacekeeping operations. Ireland is currently (as of 1 April 2010) contributing 754 Defence Forces personnel to 11 different missions throughout the world. Full details of all personnel currently serving overseas are listed in the tabular statement below.
As outlined in the budget in December 2009, it had been decided that the Defence Forces commitments to overseas peace support operations would be scaled back in 2010 as one of the budgetary expenditure reductions. This month sees the draw-down of Irish personnel from NATO-led International Security presence (KFOR) in Kosovo from the current 232 personnel to 40 (approximately) in line with the budgetary expenditure reductions in 2010. However, I have decided, at the request of the Operation Commander and in the light of the early and unexpected withdrawal from MINURCAT, to defer until the end of 2010 the drawdown of the Defence Forces contingent serving with Operation ALTHEA, which had been scheduled for July 2010.
The strength of all overseas deployments are assessed in line with the prevailing security situation in the mission area. The Defence Forces conduct a threat assessment on mission areas and all deployments meet the requirements of security and force protection for all personnel.
With regard to future deployments, Ireland receives requests, from time to time, in relation to participation in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis. When considering any particular request, the existence of realistic objectives and a clear mandate, which has the potential to contribute to a political solution, consideration of how the mission relates to the priorities of Irish foreign policy and the degree of risk involved are amongst the factors considered.
Apart from a recent EU request to despatch members of the Permanent Defence Force for service with the EU Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) military mission to contribute to the training of Somali Security Forces (EUTM Somalia) being carried out in Uganda, no other deployments are planned or envisaged at this time. In response to the EU request, the Government decided, on 23 February 2010, to despatch five (5) members of the Permanent Defence Force for service with the EU training mission, which was launched on 7 April 2010. The Irish personnel are due to take up duty shortly with the mission. No requests have been received from the UN for deployment of personnel to other UN missions.
|
Members of the Permanent Defence Force Serving Overseas as of 1st April 2010 |
||
|
1. |
UN Missions |
|
|
(i) |
UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) HQ |
8 |
|
(ii) |
UNTSO (United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation) – Israel, Syria and Lebanon |
12 |
|
(iii) |
MINURSO (United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara) |
3 |
|
(iv) |
MONUC (United Nations Mission in Democratic Republic of Congo) |
3 |
|
(v) |
UNOCI (United Nations Mission in Ivory Coast) |
2 |
|
(vi) |
MINURCAT (United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic and Chad) — HQ |
13 |
|
MINURCAT (United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic and Chad) — 102nd Infantry Battalion |
406 |
|
|
TOTAL |
447 |
|
|
UN Mandated Missions |
||
|
(vii) |
EUFOR (EU-led Operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina) |
44 |
|
(viii) |
KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) — HQ |
20 |
|
KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) 41st Inf Group |
212 |
|
|
(ix) |
ISAF (International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan) |
7 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING WITH UN MISSIONS |
730 |
|
|
2. |
Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) |
|
|
(i) |
OSCE Mission to Bosnia & Herzegovina |
2 |
|
(ii) |
OSCE Mission in Belgrade — Serbia |
1 |
|
(iii) |
Staff Officer, Higher Level Planning Group, Vienna |
1 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING OSCE |
4 |
|
|
3. |
EU Military Staff |
|
|
Brussels |
7 |
|
|
4. |
Nordic Battlegroup HQ Staff — Sweden |
4 |
|
5. |
Military Representatives/Advisers/Staff |
|
|
(i) |
Military Adviser, Permanent Mission to UN, New York |
1 |
|
(ii) |
Military Adviser, Irish Delegation to OSCE, Vienna |
1 |
|
(iii) |
Military Representative to EU (Brussels) |
4 |
|
(iv) |
Liaison Office of Ireland, NATO/PfP (Brussels) |
2 |
|
(v) |
Military Representative to NATO/PfP Co-ordination Cell/Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE), Mons, Belgium |
1 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF DEFENCE FORCES PERSONNEL SERVING OVERSEAS |
754 |
Defence Forces Recruitment.
Brian O'Shea
Question:59 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Defence if he will consider raising the age limit for recruitment in 2010 by one year in view of the fact that there was no recruitment to the Defence Forces in 2009. [15603/10]
The 2000 White Paper on Defence and the earlier Defence Force Review Implementation Plan both identified the requirement to address the 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. I am satisfied that the existing age requirements for recruitment to the Permanent Defence Force are appropriate and I do not propose to make any changes in this area at this time.
Commemorative Events.
Liz McManus
Question:60 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Defence the progress reported regarding the projects relating to the 2016 commemoration of the 1916 Rising; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15618/10]
The All Party Oireachtas Consultation Group on the Centenary of the 1916 Rising met on Wednesday, 2 December, 2009 for discussions and site visits to Glasnevin Cemetery and the National Museum of Ireland Collins Barracks to view projects relating to the 2016 commemoration of the 1916 Rising. In the discussion, the Group were informed of recent developments and events including:— Arbour Hill renewal works including restoration and extension of the existing church car park, repair and restoration of all existing cemetery graves, repair of cemetery pathways and the planting of new trees. The future location of the Abbey Theatre and possible redevelopment at the GPO with reference also to the protection of 16 Moore Street. Recent acquisition for the national collections of items of interest relating to the independence period, amongst which were the 964 items of the Stanley Collection at a cost of €3.5 million. Other items purchased/donated include a letter from P.H. Pearse to General Maxwell and General Maxwell's brief reply and a copy of the Proclamation. Assistance towards themed publication i.e. the Royal Irish Academy's recent publication on Seán Lemass, and the SIPTU sponsored publication on James Connolly. The Military Archives Project which envisages that files, being the service records of personnel involved in the struggle for independence, would be released into the public domain on a phased basis in the years leading to the Centenary of the Rising.
The Group were informed that an Advisory Board of historians had accepted invitations to assist with this project. At Glasnevin Cemetery, the Group inspected progress on the significant programme of ongoing restoration works underway for which €6.4m of NDP funding has been provided to date. I am pleased to report that the new Glasnevin museum was officially opened by an Taoiseach, Mr. Brian Cowen, T.D., on 8 April, this year. The Group also visited the ongoing restoration work being conducted on Erskine Childers' yacht Asgard. This project is scheduled to be compiled by the end of June 2010.
The suggested relocation to the GPO complex of the Abbey Theatre is currently being examined by the Office of Public Works. The decision on future use will have regard to all advice and suggestions received. This year's commemorative event to mark the Easter Rising of 1916 was held at the GPO, Dublin on Sunday 4 April 2010. The ceremony included prayers of remembrance, a reading of the Proclamation and the laying of a wreath by the President. Preparations are ongoing for the National Day of Commemoration to be held in Kilmainham in July.
A programme of events is being compiled to commemorate a whole series of centenaries across this island in the next 10 to 12 years, as we recall the key events in our history. I am confident that all significant anniversaries occurring within the period of the multi-annual programme now being prepared will be commemorated. The details of the commemorative programme will be discussed with Group members in due course. I am currently engaged in the preparation for a meeting of the All Party Oireachtas Consultation Group, which I hope to convene in the coming weeks.
Defence Forces Equipment.
Michael D. Higgins
Question:61 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Defence the total value of goods or equipment purchased by the Defence Forces from Israeli companies; the steps taken before such contracts are awarded to ensure that such companies are not involved in unethical conduct or in activities that might be illegal under international law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15627/10]
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:75 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence his views on whether the European Defence Agency code of conduct is a voluntary, non-binding agreement which involves no legal commitment and that in all cases of defence procurement final authority for contract award remains with the member state; if he will stop using the code as a justification for awarding Defence Forces contracts to Israeli-based companies; if, in the interest of the protection and enhancement of human rights he will direct that Israeli companies be excluded from all Defence force tendering processes. [15600/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 61 and 75 together.
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 €13.9m, inclusive of VAT. In each case, the main contract was awarded by tender competition, conducted impartially on the basis that the company concerned had submitted the best tender.
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 €1million, the European Defence Agency (EDA) Code of Conduct on Defence Procurement is observed and competitions are advertised on the EDA's 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 embargos 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.
The European Defence Agency's Code of Conduct for defence procurement in the Supply Chain was developed to ensure transparency in procurement and security of supply of defence equipment. Ireland is a subscribing member to the Code of Conduct and accordingly must follow the EDA's procurement rules. The Electronic Bulletin Board in the EDA acts as a single portal for defence contract opportunities. This enables wider advertising of defence force contracts so as to achieve better value for money for Ireland's expenditure on defensive equipment.
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 embargos or restrictions. There are no such restrictions or embargos in place on 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.
Army Barracks.
Tom Hayes
Question:62 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Defence the number of barracks in use by the Defence Forces, Reserve Defence Force and Permanent Defence Force in April 2010; the number of unused barracks; the alternatives to sale that have been considered for barracks no longer in use; if he has consulted with cultural or heritage organisations and local authorities as to alternative uses for these barracks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15685/10]
The Defence property portfolio consists of a diverse range of facilities from conventional military barracks to forts, camps, dwelling houses and training lands. The principal assets are 23 permanently occupied barracks. The Department also owns 26 premises that are used by the Reserve Defence Forces. A further 51 properties are rented for use by the Reserve. At present there are 4 barracks that have been vacated and negotiations in relation to their disposal is ongoing.
The property portfolio also includes a total of 150 married quarters that are mainly located within the Curragh Camp. The policy is that these should be phased out in a managed and orderly way. The Department and the Defence Forces continually review Defence Forces requirements in relation to barracks, infrastructure and other military installations. A total of ten barracks have been closed over the past 10 years.
The funding realised from the disposal of surplus military barracks together with pay savings has provided resources for the modernisation of the Defence Forces and has been invested in new infrastructure, equipment and training area development. Any further properties which are deemed to be surplus to military requirements will continue to be disposed of and the funding invested to meet the current and future equipment and infrastructure needs of the Defence Forces. That said, the question of disposal in the current market is an issue which will require detailed and prudent consideration to ensure that we maximise the return to the Defence Forces for properties sold. My Department has had discussions on the disposal of properties with a number of local authorities, heritage and community based groups.
Army Operations.
Liz McManus
Question:63 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Defence the number of occasions on which the Army Ordnance Corps has been called out to deal with suspicious devices during 2009 and to date in 2010; the number of cases which were actual explosive devices; the number of occasions on which these devices were hoaxes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15619/10]
The primary responsibility for the maintenance of law and order rests with an Garda Síochána. The Defence Forces, pursuant to their role of rendering aid to the civil power, assist the Gardaí as required. Requests for aid to the civil power are normally made by a member of an Garda Síochána not below the rank of Inspector. Requests made by an Garda Síochána for assistance in dealing with a suspect device or for the removal of old ordnance are responded to by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Team in the relevant Brigade. The number of call outs made by EOD teams in 2009 was 196. This figure includes 84 hoaxes. The total number of call outs from 1 January 2010 to 17 April 2010 is 52. This figure includes 13 hoaxes.
James Bannon
Question:64 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Defence if his Department has completed its calculation as to the amount owned by banks in respect of the provision of cash escorts in 2009; the sum owed; if that sum has been paid; if not, the deadline by which the payment must be received, the amounts owed per bank; the banks who have paid and the banks who have not paid to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15635/10]
Joan Burton
Question:72 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Defence if agreement has been reached with An Post and other organisations regarding payment for security services on the same basis as the commercial banks. [15609/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 64 and 72 together.
The formal five-year agreement made between the IBF, its member Banks and the Department of Defence which was signed by the Minister for Defence in 2005, provides that the banks pay the total actual costs incurred by the Defence Forces in the provision of cash escorts. Costs in respect of each 12-month period to end-December are paid the following year on or before the 1st June. This is to allow for the compilation of returns from the brigades and allocation of costs following the year-end.
The calculations are being finalised by the Department at the moment. The IBF will be notified of the total due within the next couple of weeks. Payment of the amount due is made through the IBF on behalf of the member banks. I do not have details of the contribution made by each bank. This is a matter for the IBF who co-ordinate the payment.
The existing agreement with banks was for an initial five-year period. Officials in the Department will shortly begin negotiations with the IBF on a new agreement. In the policy changes outlined in the Budget for 2010, it was indicated that Appropriations-in-Aid will be increased, including through charging of An Post, the Central Bank and other organisations for services on the same basis as the banks. The Central Bank has agreed to pay for costs incurred by the Defence Forces in providing security services. Similar to the agreement with the banks, the amount due in respect of 2009 will be paid on or before 1st June 2010.
Officials from the Department met recently with officials from An Post. An Post has sought clarification on some issues, in particular the number and location of post offices covered by the service provided by the Defence Forces. Further discussions with an Post will take place when these matters have been clarified. Discussions with another commercial organisation are at an early stage. There has been some initial correspondence which is receiving consideration within the Department. It is planned to follow up with a meeting of the relevant parties so as to progress the matter.
Departmental Investigations.
Catherine Byrne
Question:65 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Defence if he has received the Marine Casualty Investigation Board’s draft report on the loss of Asgard II; if so, when his Department will submit its observations on the draft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15653/10]
I wish to confirm that I have recently received a copy of the Marine Casualty Investigation Board's Draft Report into the sinking of the sail training vessel, Asgard II. The report is currently being considered in the Department and my Department will submit any observations it may have by the due date of 27 April 2010.
Search and Rescue Service.
Emmet Stagg
Question:66 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Defence the role he envisages for the Air Corps regarding the Search and Rescue Helicopter Service. [15604/10]
The Irish Coast Guard has overall responsibility for the provision of Search and Rescue, (SAR) services within the Irish Search and Rescue region. In accordance with the roles assigned to them by Government in the White Paper on Defence, the Defence Forces are committed to providing support to the civil authorities including in relation to Search and Rescue. In this regard, the Air Corps provide support to the Coast Guard as the need arises and within its available capability.
The Air Corps was withdrawn from Maritime SAR in 2004 following operational difficulties in the provision of a consistent and satisfactory level of service. The current Air Corps helicopter assets are not configured for maritime search and rescue nor does it have pilots or winchmen with the required training and experience to support such operations. There are no plans to restore the Air Corps Maritime SAR capacity, which would also require very significant investment in equipment and training over many years before it could be operational again.
The Air Corps has a 24/7 general helicopter capability which is available in support of government approved missions. Its roles include support to the Garda Síochána, air ambulance, transport roles in support of civil authorities and response to emergencies and natural disasters on land. The Air Corps has a range of Service Level Agreements with State bodies and agencies including the Coast Guard. The SLA which was signed in December, 2008 sets out the SAR assistance that the Air Corps provides to the Coast Guard. The provision of assistance during mountain rescue operations and fixed wing top cover by the Air Corps Casa aircraft to Coast Guard helicopters are included in this agreement. The Air Corps has offered assistance to the Coast Guard in their deliberations on the new SAR helicopter contract.
Question No. 67 answered with Question No. 56.
Defence Forces Reserve.
Eamon Gilmore
Question:68 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Defence the 2010 programme for the Reserve Defence Force. [15613/10]
I have been informed by the military authorities that, within the current budget, the Reserve Defence Force (RDF) programme of training for 2010 will include Unit nightly parades, weekend training field days, annual summer camps and career courses for reservists.
The provision in the current year for Reserve Defence Force Pay etc. is €4.7 million. This amount includes €2.478 million for paid training for reservists. It is anticipated that this level of funding will provide for approximately 31,000 paid training man-days for reservists.
Training in the Reserve is comprised of both voluntary and paid training. In light of the reduced paid training day provision for 2010, it is anticipated that there will be an increased emphasis on voluntary unpaid training and the allocation of paid training to individual reservists will take account of voluntary unpaid training undertaken.
The aim is to ensure that reservists who complete specified voluntary unpaid training will be afforded the opportunity to avail of a minimum of 7 days paid training and that there be an allocation of training man-days to be used to deliver enhanced training to selected members of the Reserve, through full time courses of instruction in addition to their annual training.
Question No. 69 answered with Question No. 58.
Question No. 70 answered with Question No. 56.
Pádraic McCormack
Question:71 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Defence the size of the Reserve Defence Force in 2007, 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010 inclusive; the percentage decline from its peak to its lowest point; if he is satisfied with the size of the Reserve Defence Force at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15693/10]
The size of the Reserve Defence Force in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 (as at 31 March 2010, the latest date for which figures are available), as advised by the Military Authorities, is set out in the tabular statement below.
The percentage decline during that period, a total of 2,014 personnel, equates to just under 24%.
|
Year |
Total RDF Strength |
|
2007 |
8,408 |
|
2008 |
7,671 |
|
2009 |
6,644 |
|
2010 (as at 31 March) |
6,394 |
As with the broader public service, the Defence Organisation is required to operate with reduced funding in 2010. Limited recruitment in order to replace existing members who leave the RDF was sanctioned last May. This is subject to the overall strength figure that existed at 1 January 2009 (7,671) not being exceeded. This ongoing limited recruitment is being closely monitored and will be kept under review in the light of the future budgetary provision available to the Department of Defence.
In addition, last November sanction was given for the advancement of Privates from 2* to 3* for those members who have achieved the necessary qualifications, along with promotions from Private to Corporal for those currently qualified and the promotion of one Commandant to Lt. Colonel. These promotions were made on phased basis to March 2010.
The Reserve Defence Force Review Implementation Plan, which was developed following broad stakeholder consultation, has provided the framework for the development of the Reserve over recent years. The Plan has informed the development of the Reserve up to the end of 2009. There is now a requirement to examine the progress that has been made and to chart the future direction of the Reserve. Work has commenced on a Value for Money Review of the Reserve and the findings of this Review, together with the lessons learned from the Implementation Plan to date, will inform future plans for the Reserve.
I am advised by the Military Authorities that the Reserve Defence Force retain the capacity to fulfil its duties and, accordingly, I am satisfied that its numbers are adequate at this time.
Question No. 72 answered with Question No. 64.
Air Corps Operations.
Emmet Stagg
Question:73 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Defence the role he envisages for the Air Corps regarding the servicing of the Garda helicopters. [15605/10]
The Garda Air Support Unit (GASU) currently comprises two EC 135 helicopters and one Defender 4000 fixed-wing aircraft. Air Corps personnel have responsibility for all matters relating to the servicing and maintenance of the Defender 4000.
The servicing and maintenance of the two GASU helicopters are contracted to a private company. All issues in relation to this contract are a matter for An Garda Síochána and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
Under the current arrangements, I do not envisage a role for the Air Corps in the servicing of the GASU helicopters.
Defence Forces Strength.
Willie Penrose
Question:74 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Defence further to the recent decision to approve 50 promotions at senior level within the Defence Forces the number of such appointments that have been filled to date; when the outstanding posts will be filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15622/10]
Resulting from the Government Decision regarding the reduction of public service numbers and the reduced budgetary provision available for 2009, recruitment, promotions and acting up appointments in the Permanent Defence Forces were suspended.
However, in order to maintain the ongoing operational capability of the Defence Forces, a limited number of exceptions to the application of the measures to the Permanent Defence Force were sought in a submission to the Minister for Finance, in June 2009. The need for limited recruitment, promotions and acting appointments for the Defence Forces was outlined.
As was announced on the 24 November 2009, the Minister for Finance approved an allocation of 50 promotions, for the Permanent Defence Force. These promotions were approved to address priority operational and command requirements of the Permanent Defence Force.
In order that these promotions were allocated in a manner that gives protection to the operational capacity of the Defence Forces, Military Management reviewed existing vacancies in all ranks across the organisation as a whole, so as to prioritise those to be filled from the approved promotions.
Following on from the Military review and the identification of priority posts, a total of 10 Officer promotions and 26 Enlisted promotions have been completed to date.
A further 5 Enlisted promotions will be completed as soon as the administrative procedures relating to them have been completed.
Competitions are currently underway to fill 3 Senior Technical Officer positions. The residual 6 approved promotions will be used to fill priority posts arising in the next few months.
Question No. 75 answered with Question No. 61.
Naval Service Patrols.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:76 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence his views on whether the cuts to the number of patrolling days available to the Naval Service undermines the objective of reducing the inflow of illegal drugs here; if he will seek additional funding from the Department of Finance in order that the patrolling cuts may be reversed; and if he will request the Naval Service to focus more of its resources on operations that target criminal drug smugglers as opposed to its current prioritisation of Irish fishers. [15599/10]
Ruairí Quinn
Question:89 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Defence the number of patrolling days undertaken by Naval Service vessels in each year from 2005 to 2009 and the planned number for 2010; if he has had discussions with the fishing industry or the customs authority regarding the implications for fishery protection and drug smuggling preventative measures for the planned reduction in patrolling days; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15624/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 76 and 89 together.
As part of the Estimates process for 2010, the Department sought to implement measures which would bring about the savings or the equivalent thereof as identified in the Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programme. As part of this process and to achieve a reduction in current expenditure, the Minister for Defence proposed a cut to the Naval Service patrol days in 2010. The planned number of patrol days for 2010 is 1,480.
The Naval Service provides the maritime element of the Defence Forces and has a general responsibility to meet contingent and actual maritime defence requirements. The Naval Service operates eight general purpose patrol ships. All eight ships are involved in coastal and offshore patrolling and surveillance for the State in that part of the seas where State jurisdiction applies.
The primary day-to-day tasking of the Naval Service is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Union. However, as the need arises, Naval Service vessels are deployed to other duties such as aid to the civil power, search and rescue or recovery, and drug interdiction operations.
The current Exclusive Fishery Limits extend to 200 miles offshore and cover an area of 132,000 nautical square miles. The Naval Service currently patrols the entire 200 mile limit and periodically patrols beyond these limits to protect specific fisheries. These patrols are carried out on a regular and frequent basis and are directed to all areas of Irish waters as necessary. The number of Patrol Vessels on patrol in Irish waters at any one time varies between three and eight. The Naval Service is committed to having at least three vessels on patrol within the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone at any one time. All vessels are multi-tasked in the sense that they also undertake general surveillance, security and other duties while on patrol. On any given patrol day, the Naval Service can carry out a number of taskings on behalf of other state agencies such as the Sea Fisheries Protection Agency (SFPA), an Garda Síochána and the Customs Service of the Revenue Commissioners.
The SFPA is Ireland's competent authority for seafood safety and sea fisheries protection. Officials from the Department and the Naval Service have met recently with the SFPA to discuss its priorities and how to optimise fishery patrol days to achieve those priorities having regard to the reduction in the over all number of patrol days.
The number of patrol days undertaken by the Naval Service in the past five years are as follows:
|
Year |
Patrol Days |
|
2005 |
1,681 |
|
2006 |
1,658 |
|
2007 |
1,661 |
|
2008 |
1,658 |
|
2009 |
1,588 |
Naval Service patrols at sea undoubtedly act as a deterrent in combating drug trafficking and illegal fishing. However, increasingly these roles are governed by intelligence led operations and greater cooperation between both national and international agencies.
I am therefore fully confident that the Naval Service will continue to meet all taskings assigned to them within the revised patrol pattern for 2010.
Court Martial.
Ruairí Quinn
Question:77 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the investigation being carried out into an allegation that a member of the Naval Service was supplying information on patrol vessel movements to drug smugglers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15625/10]
I am advised by the Military Authorities that the matter referred to was the subject of a comprehensive Military Police investigation, following which a Limited Court-Martial was convened by the Director of Military Prosecutions. The Limited Court-Martial was heard by the Military Judge on 14 and 15 April last at the Military Justice Centre, McKee Barracks.
The Naval Service, as the State's principal seagoing agency, remains vigilant in ensuring that its internal security is not compromised in any manner that could jeopardise any maritime law enforcement operations at sea. Accordingly, it will continue to monitor and review security within the Naval Service to ensure that persons not authorised do not receive information that could disclose the locations or operations of State ships.
Defence Forces Property.
Joe McHugh
Question:78 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Defence his plans to review the restriction on any new development around Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel, County Dublin, in view of the fact that several hundred acres of land fully serviced at a significant cost to the taxpayer and which has considerable employment generating potential is now sterilised due to this restriction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15703/10]
Section 36 of the Defence Act 1954 provides the Minister of Defence with the authority to introduce protected area orders in respect of the vicinity of Casement Aerodrome or other military aerodrome. These zones were first introduced in 1955. Since the introduction of the Planning and Development Act the details of these restrictions have been incorporated into the various Development Plans for South Dublin County Council.
The zones, which address both flight safety and security issues, have been reviewed on a number of occasions, the most recent having been carried out late last year. The findings of this review have been submitted to South Dublin County Council as part of the Department's submission in respect of the Draft County Development Plan 2010-2016.
The rationale behind the presence of the exclusion zone is one of flight safety and the safeguarding of members of the public in the vicinity of the only Military Aerodrome in the State. This policy is in line with international practice at all airports.
The security zone provides a level of protection for operations within and from the aerodrome.
Overseas Missions.
Ciaran Lynch
Question:79 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Defence his plans for members of the Reserve Defence Force to serve overseas with the Permanent Defence Force in 2010. [15614/10]
The Reserve Defence Force Review Implementation Plan provided for a phased development of Reserve capabilities over the period to end 2009. In line with the plan to provide opportunities for overseas service for members of the Reserve, the intention was to recruit suitably qualified members of the RDF to the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) for the express purpose of contributing to overseas peace support operations.
In March 2009 the Government introduced a moratorium on recruitment to the Public Service. This moratorium prevented the planned recruitment of members of the Reserve to the PDF for the purpose of overseas service, as intended. Reductions in the Defence payroll budget at that time also limited the scope for payment of additional personnel. Accordingly, plans to send members of the Reserve overseas are suspended for the foreseeable future.
As outlined in the budget in December 2009, Defence Forces commitments to overseas peace support operations are being scaled back in 2010.
The Reserve Defence Force is currently the subject of a Value for Money Review and it is anticipated that the findings of this review, coupled with the lessons learned from the Implementation Plan will inform future plans for the development of the Reserve.
Defence Forces Strength.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:80 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence his plans regarding the future strength of the Defence Forces; his further plans to increase the numbers over the foreseeable future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15628/10]
The White Paper on Defence of February 2000 sets out a figure of 10,500 personnel for the Permanent Defence Force comprising 930 for the Air Corps, 1,144 for the Naval Service and 8,426 for the Army.
I am advised by the military authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force as at 31 March 2010, the latest date for which figures are available was 9,877 broken down as follows; 800 for the Air Corps, 1,026 for the Naval Service and 8,051 for the Army.
I am acutely aware of the impact of the moratorium on the Permanent Defence Force particularly in light of the very high turnover rate that is part of any military organisation. Within the available resources, the Government is committed to maintaining the strength of the Defence Forces at a level of 10,000 all ranks, for which Government approval has been secured in the context of Budget 2010. This reflects the reductions in personnel recommended in the Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes.
Officials from the Department are continuing to engage with the Military Authorities in relation to the review of structures and posts required to meet the operational requirements of the Defence Forces in light of the Government decision to maintain a complement of 10,000 personnel.
As the numbers in the Permanent Defence Force have now dropped below 10,000, recruitment will be carried out in 2010 in order to bring the numbers back to this level. Details of the recruitment campaign for 2010 in relation to the numbers of general service recruits and the commencement of any such recruitment campaigns are not yet available. Planning for this process is underway.
I am advised that at this time the Defence Forces retain the capacity to undertake the tasks laid down by Government both at home and overseas.
Defence Forces Property.
David Stanton
Question:81 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Defence the progress made regarding the new military courthouse in the Curragh, County Kildare; the cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15596/10]
A new Military Justice Centre in McKee Barracks, Dublin was completed in early 2009 at a cost of €.5m. This Centre provides court facilities for the Defence Forces and is adequate in meeting those needs.
There are no plans to provide additional court facilities at the Curragh.
Question No. 82 answered with Question No. 58.
Joan Burton
Question:83 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Defence the additional Defence Forces property sales that are planned for 2010. [15608/10]
As the Deputy will be aware, a programme of rationalising and disposing of property which is surplus to the requirements of the Defence Forces has been on-going for a number of years. In that regard the Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programme noted that my Department has identified 33 properties for disposal.
A number of sales are currently being processed and as these are completed other properties will be prepared for disposal. Due to the diverse nature and location of the properties concerned it is difficult to give an indication of when further properties will be offered for sale.
Any properties to be disposed of will take account of the market conditions, so as to maximise the return to the Defence Forces and generate funding for reinvestment in Defence Forces equipment and infrastructure. Significant progress has been achieved over the past decade in re-equipping and developing Defence Forces capabilities, using the proceeds from the sales of surplus properties and we need to ensure that this progress is continued. Having regard to the investment needs of the Defence Forces and given the current economic circumstances, it is important that my Department realises the full commercial value of the properties being sold.
Departmental Expenditure.
Sean Sherlock
Question:84 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Defence his Department’s Estimate for 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15621/10]
Like other areas of the public service, the Defence Organisation is operating on a reduced budget for 2010, the details of which are set out in the Revised Estimates Volume for 2010. The gross total allocation for Defence in 2010 is €964m, comprising €755m in the Defence Estimate and €209m in the Army Pensions Estimate.
As the numbers in the Permanent Defence Force have dropped below 10,000, recruitment will be carried out in 2010. The Defence Forces will continue to operate across all of the roles assigned by Government.
The investment in improved equipment and training made over the past few years means that the Defence Forces are in a healthy state, both in terms of personnel and equipment, to meet the challenges that lie ahead. They have improved in every respect since 2000 and comprehensive reform of structure and human resources, together with major investment in infrastructure and equipment, has been achieved during the past ten years.
In addition to savings of some €34m arising from the reductions in public service pay provided for in the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (No. 2) Act 2009, further payroll savings of the order of €14m will be achieved by reduced Permanent Defence Force personnel numbers, reduced civilian employee numbers and lower levels of paid training days for the Reserve Defence Force.
Reductions in the number of Permanent Defence Force personnel deployed overseas to Kosovo and Bosnia-Herzegovina will achieve savings of up to €7m, while reduced Naval Service patrol days and the optimisation of Air Corps flying hours will deliver savings of €2.2m. The implications of the decision to withdraw the Irish contingent from the United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic and Chad (MINURCAT) are being examined.
The Coiste an Asgard sail training scheme has been discontinued, resulting in a saving of €0.8m.
Provision has been made for additional Appropriations in Aid of up to €13m, mainly in respect of UN receipts, property sales, cash escorts and military guards. It is envisaged that the scheme of full recovery of costs for security services will be extended to An Post, the Central Bank and other organisations. The Central Bank has agreed to pay such costs while discussions with the other organisations have been initiated.
The 2010 capital expenditure allocation of €16m is focused on new building works to improve the accommodation and facilities of the Defence Forces.
I am satisfied that priority programmes of investment in equipment and infrastructure can be maintained within the approved allocation.
Defence Forces Strength.
Brian O'Shea
Question:85 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Defence the total number of personnel who have left the Permanent Defence Force in the first quarter of 2010; the total strength of the Defence Forces. [15602/10]
Brian O'Shea
Question:169 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Defence the number of personnel who have left the Permanent Defence Force in the first quarter of 2010; the total strength of the Defence Forces. [15851/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 85 and 169 together.
I am advised by the Military Authorities that as at 31 March, 2010, the latest date for which figures are available, the strength of the 87 Defence Forces amounts to 9,877, comprising 8,051 Army, 800 Air Corps and 1,026 Naval Service.
I am further advised by the Military Authorities that the total number of personnel who have left the Permanent Defence Force during the first quarter of 2010 amounts to 56.
I am also advised that at this time the Defence Forces retain the capacity to undertake the tasks laid down by Government both at home and overseas.
Overseas Missions.
Michael D. Higgins
Question:86 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Defence if he will clarify the roles of the seven Irish soldiers currently reported to be in Afghanistan. [13340/10]
On 20 December 2001, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 1386 under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, authorising the establishment of an International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan. Ireland has participated in the NATO–led UN mandated mission since 5 July 2002, following the Government Decision of 2 July 2002, authorising the provision of seven (7) members of the Permanent Defence Force for service with the force. Since 2002, the Government has reviewed and approved, on an annual basis, the continued participation by seven (7) members of the Permanent Defence Force in ISAF.
The seven Irish personnel currently participating in ISAF, comprising 4 Officers and 3 Non-Commissioned Officers, are located in ISAF Headquarters in Kabul. The Irish personnel work in staff appointments in planning and administrative roles. Irish personnel are rotated every 6 months.
Question No. 87 answered with Question No. 56.
Question No. 88 answered with Question No. 54.
Question No. 89 answered with Question No. 76.
Industrial Relations.
Eamon Gilmore
Question:90 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Defence the number of meetings he and his Department have had with the Representative Association for Commissioned Officers and the Permanent Defence Forces Other Ranks Representative Association in the past 12 months. [15612/10]
Since my appointment as Minister for Defence I have had one meeting with PDFORRA and have also met RACO on one occasion. In the past twelve months my predecessor met with each of the Associations once and addressed both their Annual Delegate Conferences.
The Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme provides the mechanism for addressing issues, which come within the Association's remit. This scheme provides a range of fora for engagement with the Associations, from Council and subcommittee meetings to less formal meeting and contacts.
The number of meetings held with each association under the scheme depends on the particular issues on hands, the complexity of those issues and how the associations choose to deal with them, either formally or informally. In the past 12 months officials from the Department of Defence have met with PDFORRA formally on 12 occasions and RACO formally on 22 occasions. In addition, there has been many informal meetings with both Associations, in particular PDFORRA.
Question No. 91 answered with Question No. 58.
Defence Forces Recruitment.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:92 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Defence the details of the 2010 recruitment process for personnel to bring the numbers in the Defence Forces to the required figure of 10,000 as provided for in the 2010 budget; when such recruitment will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15595/10]
Within the available resources, the Government is committed to maintaining the strength of the Defence Forces at a level of 10,000 all ranks, for which Government approval has been secured in the context of Budget 2010. This reflects the reductions in personnel recommended in the Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes. I am advised by the Military authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force as at 31 March, 2010 was 9,877 comprising 8,051 Army, 800 Air Corps and 1,026 Naval Service personnel.
As the numbers in the Permanent Defence Force have dropped below 10,000, recruitment will be carried out in 2010. Detailed planning on the number general service personnel to be recruited and the timing of such recruitment in 2010 is currently ongoing within the Department and the Defence Forces in the context of the available resources and operational priorities.
I intend, with the support of the Chief of Staff and within the resources available, to retain the capacity of the organisation to operate effectively across all roles while contributing to the necessary public service economies. I am advised that at this time the Defence Forces retain the capacity to undertake the tasks laid down by Government at home and overseas.
Court of Inquiry Report.
Sean Sherlock
Question:93 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Defence if the director of legal services has concluded his consideration of the report of the court of inquiry into the accident at Kilworth Camp, County Cork, in June 2009 when an officer was seriously injured in a training incident; the action he will take arising from this report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15620/10]
The report is still being considered by the Director of the Defence Forces Legal Services. The matter is the subject of ongoing correspondence between the Director and the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1st Southern Brigade.
Army Equitation School.
Joe Costello
Question:94 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Defence the 2010 programme for the Army equitation school. [15610/10]
The mission of Army Equitation School, as assigned to it on its establishment in 1926, is to promote the Irish horse abroad through participation in international competition. In 2010, the Equitation School will continue to discharge this task, competing in national and international events in showjumping and three day eventing.
Army Equitation School horses and riders will campaign on the National and International show jumping circuit in the coming months, with the aim of being selected for the Irish teams participating at the Meydan Super League Nations Cup series which will be held at venues across Europe, culminating in the Dublin Horse Show in August. The School will also compete on the National Grand Prix show jumping circuit this year. Building on its previous success in Three Day Eventing, the School will compete on the National, UK and International circuit with the aim of being selected for the Irish team competing at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Kentucky.
In addition to its competition activity in 2010, the Army Equitation School will continue to support the Irish horse industry. The School is represented on several committees of the national governing body, Horse Sport Ireland. In February and March of this year the School, in conjunction with Teagasc, hosted information seminars for breeders of sport horses. To provide support to young rider development, the School will accommodate three training bursaries to young riders competing in the disciplines of show jumping and eventing. The School also accommodates applications for work experience from Transition Year students and requests from interested groups and individuals to visit the premises. In 2010, the Army Equitation School Horse Purchase Board will continue to source high quality horses for purchase and lease for competition at home and abroad and maintain the proud tradition of the Army Equitation School.
Naval Service Vessels.
Pat Rabbitte
Question:95 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the posting of detailed information on the Internet about the movements of Naval Service vessels could be used by drug importers or others involved in illegal activities to avoid detection; his plans to review this procedure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15626/10]
The Naval Service does not post ship movements on the internet. However, when a Naval vessel passes close to land or enters a port, on occasion its presence may be posted on the port's internet website or on that of ship enthusiasts.
There are other websites which display the movement of ships using data from the Automatic Identification System (AIS). AIS is a short range coastal tracking system, used onboard ships and by Vessel Traffic Services (VTS), for identifying and locating vessels by electronically exchanging data with other nearby ships and VTS stations. The Naval Service carries AIS but it is strictly controlled. Naval Service policy is that a Naval vessel will transmit its AIS data when leaving a controlled port, when transiting outside Irish waters or on any other occasion when the ship's Captain deems it appropriate. As a result, Irish Naval vessels will appear on the AIS tracking systems from time to time. At all other times, the AIS equipment operates passively, in that it can receive data but will not transmit data. This ensures that the location of a Naval vessel cannot be tracked, thereby preserving operational security. There is no risk that any information available on the internet regarding Naval vessel movement could be used by drug importers or others involved in illegal activities to avoid detection.
Question No. 96 answered with Question No. 56.
Court Martial.
David Stanton
Question:97 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Defence the number of court martial that took place during 2006 to 2010, inclusive; the number ongoing at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15597/10]
Court martial were not held between December 2005 and September 2008 as the principal piece of legislation governing the Defence Forces court martial system, the Defence Act 1954, was being amended to comply with the European Convention on Human Rights. Cases that arose during this period were not heard until the relevant sections of the amending legislation, the Defence (Amendment) Act 2007, were commenced on 1 September 2008.
The number of court martial that have been completed since 1 September 2008 to date, along with those which are ongoing, as advised by the Military Authorities, are detailed in the following tabular statement:
|
Class of Court Martial |
Completed 2008 |
Completed 2009 |
Completed 2010 |
Ongoing |
|
Summary Court Martial |
6 |
15 |
9 |
2 |
|
Limited Court Martial |
1 |
3 |
1 |
3 |
|
General Court Martial |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
Departmental Funding.
Joe Costello
Question:98 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Defence the level of funding by the State of the Representative Association for Commissioned Officers, RACO, and the Permanent Defence Forces Other Ranks Representative Association, PDFORRA; the number of staff that they both employ; and the numbers they represent. [15611/10]
PDFORRA receive an annual subvention of €68,568. The figure can be broken down as follows — Accommodation €43,172, Postage and Telephone expenses €25,396. RACO are provided with serviced office accommodation without charge and have access to the Department's telephone network without charge. The payments to both Associations are made in accordance with Agreed Arrangements under the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme. The General Secretary and the Assistant General Secretary of both PDFORRA and RACO are serving personnel and are seconded to their Associations without recovery of remuneration.
There are 8,442 enlisted personnel and 1,435 officers in the Permanent Defence Forces. Figures as to the percentage of enlisted personnel and officers represented by PDFORRA and RACO are not available. Details of the numbers of staff employed by the Representative Associations are not available.
Military Archives.
Kathleen Lynch
Question:99 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Defence the progress made regarding the location of a more suitable premises for the military archives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15617/10]
The Military Archives, located at Cathal Brugha Barracks, Rathmines, Dublin 6, is the place of deposit for the records of the Department of Defence, the Defence Forces and the Army Pensions Board under the terms of Section 14 of the National Archives Act 1986. Military archive files are held there and, because of storage space constraints, in other locations.
A Military Pensions Archive project, covering the 1916 Rising and the War of Independence, is underway. The purpose of the project is to make the records for this period available to the public and to historians in good time for the 100th anniversary of the 1916 Rising in 2016. The requirement for a more suitable home for the Military Archives has been recognised for some time and has been the subject of significant research. The long-term accommodation for the Military Archive will be reviewed in the context of the military pension archive project.
Navigation Systems.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:100 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Defence his views on whether jammers available for purchase via the Internet pose a security threat to global positioning system navigation systems at sea; his further views on the potential scale of this threat; and the steps he will take to address it. [15601/10]
I would like to advise the Deputy that as Minister for Defence, the issue of jammers and their potential threat to Global Positioning System, (GPS), navigation systems at sea does not come under my remit. The Naval Service is aware of the issue and I have been informed that in the event of such a threat to one of its ships, the Naval Service could revert to a terrestrial navigation system.
Naval Service Patrols.
Kathleen Lynch
Question:101 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Defence the tasks carried out by the Naval Service within the revised patrol patterns for the first quarter of 2010. [15616/10]
As part of the Estimates process for 2010, the Department sought to implement measures which would bring about the savings or the equivalent thereof as identified in the Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programme. As part of this process and to achieve a reduction in current expenditure, the Minister for Defence proposed a cut to the Naval Service patrol days in 2010. The planned number of patrol days for 2010 is 1,480.
The Naval Service has a concurrent multi functional role as the State's primary sea going agency. On any given patrol day the Naval Service can carry out a number of taskings on behalf of other state agencies such as the Sea Fisheries Protection Agency (SFPA), an Garda Síochána and the Customs Service of the Revenue Commissioners.
Actual patrol days for the first quarter of 2010 totalled 353 days. Within this, 21 patrols were commenced, and a range of taskings were undertaken and services provided. Fishery protection operations included the inspection and boarding of 408 fishing vessels, and the detention of 2 fishing vessels. The Naval Service provided aid to the civil authorities for 2 Search and Rescue operations during the first quarter of 2010, and was involved in 4 military exercises in conjunction with the Army. A Naval Service ship was also involved in a collaborative research project with University College Cork Coastal Marine Research Centre while on patrol.
The taskings undertaken by the Naval Service in any given period of time are dependent on a number of factors, including the number and type of ship available, the prevailing weather conditions, the time of year, and the demand for non fishery protection services. I am fully confident that the Naval Service will continue to meet all taskings assigned to them within the revised patrol pattern for 2010.
Overseas Missions.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:102 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the advice available to him, his Department and the international community prior to withdrawal of peacekeeping forces from the western Balkans; if due regard has been given to the ongoing needs in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15629/10]
Since the late 1990's, the Defence Forces have participated in peace support operations in the Western Balkans through their troop presence in the UN mandated NATO-led KFOR mission in Kosovo and in the UN mandated EU-led Operation ALTHEA (formerly SFOR) in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
As the security situation has continued to improve in Kosovo in recent years, on 11 June 2009 NATO Defence Ministers approved the forces's move to that of a "deterrent presence" and this was endorsed by partner nations. Since then the move to a "deterrent presence" has been implemented in a gradual and phased manner moving from its troop level of approximately 15,400 (June 2009) to its current level (26 February 2010) of 9,923. The KFOR mission will continue to downsize over the coming months, subject to a continuation of the improved security situation on the ground. A downsized KFOR will continue to contribute to the safe and secure environment, in cooperation with the international civil presence and institutions in Kosovo. In addition, the Kosovo authorities are able to maintain the rule of law and the EU-led mission, EULEX Kosovo, has declared full operating capability since April 2009.
As outlined in the budget in December 2009, it had been decided that the Defence Forces commitments to overseas peace support operations would be scaled back in 2010 as one of the budgetary expenditure reductions. This month sees the drawdown of Irish personnel from NATO-led International Security presence (KFOR) in Kosovo from the current 232 personnel to 40 (approximately) in line with the budgetary decision.
It had also been decided to drawdown in July 2010 the Defence Forces contingent serving with EUFOR's Operation ALTHEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This was based on an expectation that the transition of the EUFOR mission to a training and support mission would be well in train by that time. However, the transition to a smaller training and support mission is now expected to be completed in December 2010. Following a request by EUFOR's Operation Commander to maintain the Irish contingent with the mission until year end, I have decided to defer the drawdown of the Irish contingent from EU-led mission until the end of 2010.
Job Creation.
Pat Breen
Question:103 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will report on the number of foreign direct investment greenfield projects assisted by the Industrial Development Authority which have been set up here over the past five years; the location of these projects; the percentage of new jobs created; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15855/10]
In the 5-year period 2005 to 2009, there have been 42 announcements of greenfield investments by IDA supported companies, with the potential to create over 4,000 jobs. Details of the location, activity and number of jobs associated with each announcement are set out in the tabular statement. It should be noted, however, that jobs announced are typically created over a period of up to three to five years. In the same 5 year period a total of 48,569 jobs were created in IDA supported companies.
It should also be remembered that many projects commence without being announced publicly.
|
2005 |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Date Announced |
Company |
Location |
Product / Activity |
No. Jobs Announced |
|
03-Feb-05 |
Hartford Financial Services |
Dublin |
Financial Services |
130 |
|
03-Feb-05 |
AutoEurpoe |
Dublin |
Car rental Call Centre |
60 |
|
03-Feb-05 |
MarketBoomer |
Dublin |
eProcurement Service Provider |
35 |
|
15-Feb-05 |
Yahoo! |
Dublin |
Online product & service providers |
400 |
|
12-Apr-05 |
DC Studios |
Dublin |
Video game development |
50 |
|
07-Jun-05 |
Qlogic Corporation |
Dublin |
Storage Area Network Infrastructure Component Providers |
100 |
|
28-Oct-05 |
Palm |
Dublin |
Mobile computing & provider of smartphones |
35 |
|
Date Announced |
Company |
Location |
Product / Activity |
No. Jobs Announced |
|
22-Feb-06 |
Sage Technologies |
Dublin |
Software |
40 |
|
20-Mar-06 |
Actel |
Dublin |
European IC Development Centre |
20 |
|
25-Apr-06 |
Sandisk Intl |
Dublin |
EMEA HQ |
125 |
|
Date Announced |
Company |
Location |
Product / Activity |
No. Jobs Announced |
|
12 Apr 07 |
Paragon Global Resources |
Dublin |
International Services |
100 |
|
17 Apr 07 |
Gala Inc |
Dublin |
On-Line Games |
32 |
|
27 Nov 07 |
FINCAD |
Dublin |
EMEA HQ |
30 |
|
Date Announced |
Company |
Location |
Product / Activity |
No. Jobs Announced |
|
05-Feb-08 |
Zimmer |
Shannon |
Medical Technologies |
250 |
|
08-Feb-08 |
Unum |
Carlow |
Software Services Centre |
200 |
|
12-Feb-08 |
Channel Advisor |
Limerick |
Business Development Centre |
15 |
|
25-Mar-08 |
EyeWonder |
Dublin |
European Sales & Customer Support Centre |
31 |
|
21-May-08 |
Satir |
Louth |
European HQ |
40 |
|
16-Jun-08 |
Solaris Mobile |
Dublin |
Coporate HQ |
50 |
|
05-Aug-08 |
Abiomed |
Westmeath |
Establishing a Global Manufacturing Faciltiy |
250 |
|
04-Sep-08 |
Freightquote |
Dublin |
European HQ |
100 |
|
23-Sep-08 |
Netezza |
Dundalk |
European Operations Centre |
65 |
|
02-Oct-08 |
|
Dublin |
Social Networking |
74 |
|
23-Oct-08 |
Goa |
Dublin |
European Headquarters |
474 |
|
20-Nov-08 |
DTS |
Limerick |
European Headquarters |
50 |
|
01-Dec-08 |
CSN Stores |
Galway |
EMEA Headquarters |
200 |
|
11-Dec-08 |
Hovione |
Cork |
Bulk Pharmaceuticals |
80 |
|
18-Dec-08 |
PPD |
Westmeath |
Contract Research Facility |
250 |
|
Date Announced |
Company |
Location |
Product / Activity |
No. Jobs Announced |
|
22-Jan-09 |
Gerson Lehrman Group |
Dublin |
New Operations Hub |
50 |
|
09-Apr-09 |
Big Fish Games Inc |
Cork |
European Headquarters |
100 |
|
21-Apr-09 |
CIRS |
Louth |
EU Headquarters |
26 |
|
28-Jul-09 |
Success Factors |
Dublin |
European Multilingual Business Centre |
40 |
|
04-Aug-09 |
Kenexa |
Louth |
Web based Recruitment |
30 |
|
12-Aug-09 |
Lumension |
Galway |
Global R&D Centre |
30 |
|
02-Sep-09 |
BSB |
Dublin |
Operations Hub |
20 |
|
20-Sep-09 |
Everest |
Dublin |
Reinsurance Operation |
10 |
|
29-Sep-09 |
Butterfield Fulcrum |
Dublin |
Establishment of Fund Admistration Operation |
40 |
|
19-Oct-09 |
Vattenfall/Tonn Energy |
Mayo |
R&D Initiative in Clean-tech Energy |
0 |
|
21-Oct-09 |
Sajan |
Dublin |
European Headquarters |
35 |
|
30-Oct-09 |
Buy.com |
Galway |
European Operations Centre |
40 |
|
18-Nov-09 |
Bently Systems Incorporated |
Dublin |
International Shared Services, Sales & Marketing Centre |
150 |
|
17-Dec-09 |
Maxim Integrated Products |
Dublin |
International Business Centre |
100 |
Finian McGrath
Question:104 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will support the staff of a company (details supplied) during this current period. [15884/10]
The company is a major employer in Ireland and Northern Ireland employing over 2,500 people. Enterprise Ireland, over the past 4 years, has provided grant support towards the creation of new jobs in Ireland to service the company's international growth. The Chairman and Chief Executive of Enterprise Ireland met with the senior management of the Group on 4 April 2010. Enterprise Ireland stands ready to provide all possible support to the company with a view to maintaining the maximum number of jobs, when the company's position is clarified.
Redundancy Payments.
Tom Hayes
Question:105 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when redundancy payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15893/10]
I wish to advise the Deputy that on the basis of the records in the Redundancy Payments Section of my Department, there is no record of a claim for a redundancy payment in respect of the individual in question.
Job Creation.
Billy Timmins
Question:106 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position in respect of State assisted jobs created in County Wicklow and in County Carlow in each of the years 2005 and to date in 2010 broken down by year and by county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15913/10]
Billy Timmins
Question:107 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of site visits made by agencies under the aegis of his Department with a view to creating employment in County Wicklow and in County Carlow in the years 2007 to date in 2010; the location of these visits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15917/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 106 and 107 together.
Details of jobs created with the assistance of the State in each of the years 2005 to 2009 inclusive, in respect of Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland supported companies, are set out in the tables.
Details of jobs existing in companies supported by Wicklow and Carlow County Enterprise Boards at the end of each year in question are also tabulated.
As this data is compiled on an annualised basis, figures in respect of 2010 will not be available until early in 2011.
I have been informed by IDA Ireland that, in the period from January 2007 to date in 2010, there have been 14 site visits to Carlow — all to Carlow town and two site visits to Wicklow — one to Bray and one to Arklow.
|
Wicklow |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
Enterprise Ireland Supported Companies |
438 |
167 |
276 |
260 |
80 |
|
IDA Ireland Supported Companies |
374 |
140 |
190 |
53 |
28 |
|
Wicklow |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
*Wicklow CEB Supported Companies |
813 |
794.5 |
804 |
789 |
707.5 |
|
Carlow |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
Enterprise Ireland Supported Companies |
160 |
267 |
194 |
228 |
24 |
|
IDA Ireland Supported Companies |
44 |
20 |
3 |
74 |
49 |
|
Carlow |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
*Carlow CEB Supported Companies |
801 |
887.5 |
920 |
924 |
843 |
*These figures represent jobs existing in CEB supported companies at year-end.
FÁS Training Programmes.
Terence Flanagan
Question:108 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the action he will take on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15920/10]
Statutory Apprenticeship in Ireland is organised by FÁS in co-operation with the Department of Education and Skills, employers and unions. Apprenticeship is a demand-driven educational and training programme for employed people aimed at developing the skills of the apprentice to meet the needs of industry and the labour market. The Apprenticeship system is a modular standards-based system generally comprising 7 alternating phases of on-the-job and off-the-job training and development. These alternating phases consist of 3 off-the-job and 4 on-the-job training phases.
FAS already operates a number of measures in support of redundant apprentices including a new Redundant Apprentice Placement Scheme. These measures are detailed in the reply to Parliamentary Questions No. 12629-12633 of 2010.
However, should a Local Authority be considering a scheme to refurbish local authority housing and to engage redundant apprentices to do so, it would be necessary for the Local Authority to:
Directly employ and fund the apprentices to undertake the relevant on-the-job training and assessments.
Directly employ suitably qualified craftpersons to train, supervise and carry out the necessary assessments for the apprentices.
Provide a range of work and access to materials, tools and equipment for the apprentices in order to complete the specific on-the-job assessments for the relevant trade
Ensure that relevant project management and professional expertise is provided to ensure that relevant standards, building regulations and health and safety requirements are met.
These are matters to be considered by individual local authorities in the first instance.
Tax Code.
Thomas Byrne
Question:109 Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Finance if a person can claim tax relief for medical expenses on a Med 1 form in respect of private tuition for an autistic child in circumstances in which such tuition has been recommended by a clinical psychologist and is not available from the Department of Education and Science due to the young age of the child. [15853/10]
The position is that income tax relief in respect of health expenses is allowable in accordance with Section 469 of the Taxes Consolidated Act 1997. The section provides for tax relief for health expenses incurred in the provision of health care. "Health care" is defined as "the prevention, diagnosis, alleviation or treatment of an ailment, injury, infirmity, defect or disability, and includes care received by a woman in respect of a pregnancy, but does not include routine ophthalmic treatment or routine dental treatment".
Income tax relief would not be due in respect of the provision of private tuition, whether recommended by a clinical psychologist or not, as tuition does not come within the meaning of "health care" for the purposes of Section 469 of the Taxes Consolidated Act 1997.
Indebtedness Report.
Thomas Byrne
Question:110 Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Finance his views on the report on indebtedness of the Joint Committee on Social and Family Affairs and in particular its key recommendations. [15854/10]
I welcome the Report on Indebtedness of the Joint Committee on Social and Family Affairs and its recommendations which were published earlier this year.
The Deputy will be aware that on the 25th February 2010 I informed the Government of my proposals regarding expanding the membership of the Interdepartmental Mortgage Arrears Group, under the Chairmanship of Mr. Hugh Cooney, an insolvency accountant. The terms of reference of the Group which were incorporated into the supplementary documentation for my Statement on Banking which I delivered to this House on 30 March 2010, include a commitment to take account of the Joint Committee's Report.
I am satisfied that the recommendations contained in the Joint Committee's Report will be given full consideration by the Mortgage Arrears Group.
Departmental Expenditure.
Mary Upton
Question:111 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide a list of art works purchased by the OPW over the past ten years; the cost of each individual work of art; the locations at which these art works are on display; if they are all available to public viewing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15862/10]
In the past decade, the majority of art works commissioned and purchased by the OPW have been funded under the Government's per cent for art scheme. These include paintings, limited edition original prints, sculpture, mixed media installations, lens based and multi-disciplinary art, music and poetry.
The per cent for art scheme has been Government policy since 1997 and the publication "Public Art: Per Cent for Art Scheme, General National Guidelines — 2004", encourages every public body delivering capital construction projects to implement the scheme. Limits apply to funding available under the per cent for art scheme, with the maximum art budget for projects in excess of €12.7 million, being €64,000. The OPW has been committed to implementing this policy and adheres to the practices set out in the National Guidelines.
The majority of commissioned art works are on public view, and these are located in public offices throughout the country. OPW works in co-operation with the Arts Council and local arts officers in implementing the scheme. Art projects have been commissioned for such diverse locations as Dublin Zoo, Nenagh Courthouse, the Broadcasting Commission, the National Library, Northside Civic Centre, Oranmore Garda Station, Tralee Ship Canal, amongst many others. There are over 70 commissioned works listed on the OPW art database currently, ranging in cost from €10,000 to the maximum amount of €64,000.
The OPW Art Management Office is currently engaged in a major inventory project, due for completion in December 2010. There are currently over 12,000 art works and decorative objects listed on the OPW art database. These range from historic painted portrait series in locations such as the Royal Hospital Kilmainham and Kilkenny Castle to art works purchased from graduate shows in recent years under the per cent for art scheme. The OPW has currently catalogued almost 5,000 art works and art projects for the period 2000 to 2009. It is planned to publish an up-to-date catalogue of works commissioned and purchased between 2006 and 2010 in the autumn next year. This catalogue will be the latest in the series ‘Art in State Buildings' that currently documents the collection from 1922 to 2005. Copies of the ‘Art in State Buildings' catalogue are available from the OPW Art Management Office and they have been made widely available, free of charge, to researchers, public libraries, schools and colleges.
The Art Management Office also organises a touring exhibition of art works annually in co-operation with the Department of Finance and Personnel of Northern Ireland. These exhibitions bring art works, both historical and contemporary, from both collections to a wider audience. A catalogue is also published to accompany this exhibition that provides information on the artists and their work which is distributed free of charge to visitors to the exhibition. Since 1991, these OPW-managed exhibitions have visited numerous arts centres, colleges and heritage properties in almost every county on the island of Ireland.
The OPW also lends art works to exhibitions organised by other arts organisations. For example, both IMMA and the RHA have borrowed works in recent times. Artists and their galleries also request the loan of their works for retrospective exhibitions, and the OPW facilitates these requests on a regular basis.
The nature of the overall collection, including art works purchased, is that it is mobile. Art works move from location to location as buildings are refurbished. An art work purchased for the collection can have had numerous homes over the years, and many pieces have moved several times since acquisition. At any given time, a couple of hundred pieces are in the OPW art store, and these works are generally awaiting conservation, reframing, or are between moves from one building to another. Apart from the large-scale commissioned projects and the art works on permanent exhibition in the heritage properties, the location of art works is generally not published for two specific reasons; the security of the art works, and the fact that the collection is mobile. While few of the art works acquired under the per cent for art scheme are currently of major financial value, the fact that they are so easily accessible makes them vulnerable to damage, loss and theft, unlike those in the collection of a cultural institution with constant invigilation. It is also the case that the location of a work can change within a short period of time, making any published location record obsolete quite quickly.
Codes of Conduct.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:112 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance if he will take steps to amend the statutory code of conduct on mortgage arrears to rectify the shortcoming by which the moratorium period commences from the point at which arrears first arose but does not involve any requirement for cumulative arrears. [15872/10]
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:115 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance if he will take steps to amend the code of conduct on mortgage arrears to make specific provisions for homes in negative equity including steps required to ensure best value for borrowers on the disposal of any such properties for which repossession is sought or achieved. [15875/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 112 and 115 together.
As the Deputy is aware, the Financial Regulator first published its Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears (the Code) on 13 February 2009 which was updated on 17 February 2010. The Code is mandatory for all regulated lenders and includes provisions on matters relating to a moratorium and mortgage repossessions. In addition, of course, both lender and borrower are bound by the conditions of their mortgage contract, which imposes obligations on both sides.
After my Budget speech in December, I wrote to the Financial Regulatory requesting that consideration be given to extending the then 6 month moratorium out to 12 months to ease the burden on mortgage borrowers in arrears. The Financial Regulator after careful consideration and consultations decided to extend the moratorium to 12 months in line with my request. Any change to the Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears is a matter for the Financial Regulator.
The Deputy will be aware that on the 25th February 2010, I informed the Government of my proposals to broaden the membership of the then Interdepartmental Mortgage Arrears Group, to include external experts alongside senior civil servants under the Chairmanship of Mr. Hugh Cooney an insolvency accountant. The external members of the Group were selected on the basis of their individual expertise in areas relating to mortgage arrears and personal debt and include the Financial Regulator.
The revamped Group will focus initially on bringing forward recommendations in dealing with the mortgage arrears problem and will later address the personal debt issue. I expect that these recommendations will be made to me on a rolling basis as the Group progresses with its review with a final report on the mortgage arrears issues completed by end June 2010. I will then consider the merits of each of the recommendations before deciding on whether to submit to Government for decision. The Deputy will appreciate that all proposals will need to be fully costed before being recommended to Government and will also have to represent value for money from the point of view of the Government and taxpayers.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:113 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance if he will take steps to implement the recommendation of the Joint Committee on Social and Family Affairs that the moratorium period under the statutory code of conduct on mortgage arrears be extended to 24 months. [15873/10]
The Deputy will be aware that I wrote to the Financial Regulator after my Budget 2010 speech, requesting that consideration be given to extending the moratorium from 6 months to 12 months. The Financial Regulator decided after consultation that it would be possible to extend the moratorium in line with my request and the new limit of 12 months now applies to all regulated lenders and is reflected in the updated Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears which came into effect on 17 February 2010.
As the Deputy is aware, on 25th February 2010, I informed the Government of my proposals to extend the membership of the then Interdepartmental Mortgage Arrears Group to include external experts under the Chairmanship of Mr. Hugh Cooney an insolvency accountant. The external members of the Group were selected on the basis of their individual expertise in areas relating to mortgage arrears and personal debt and include the Financial Regulator.
The Group has since commenced its work and is meeting regularly. Its Terms of Reference which I have approved were incorporated into the supplementary documentation for my Statement on Banking which I delivered to this House on 30 March 2010. In general, the Terms of Reference reflect the commitments made by the Government both in the Renewed Programme for Government and in subsequent Government decisions relating to the issues of mortgage arrears and personal debt and specifically include a commitment to take account of the Report on indebtedness by the Joint Committee on Social and Family Affairs.
The revamped Group will focus initially on bringing forward recommendations in dealing with the mortgage arrears problem and will later address the personal debt issue. I expect that these recommendations will be made to me on a rolling basis as the Group progresses with its review with a final report on the mortgage arrears issues completed by end June 2010. I will then consider the merits of each of the recommendations before deciding on whether to submit to Government for decision. The Deputy will appreciate that all proposals will need to be fully costed before being recommended to Government and will also have to represent value for money from the point of view of the Government and taxpayers.
The proposal to further extend the moratorium on mortgage repossessions out to 24 months as suggested by the Deputy has the potential to cause serious funding problems for Irish banks, and ultimately for the State itself. It must be emphasised that Irish banks continue to rely to a significant extent on international credit markets for funding. Those markets are aware that Irish banks are heavily exposed to the residential mortgage market. Because mortgage default rates are much higher in some other countries than here, there is already a perception of risk in connection with the Irish banks mortgage loan books that is higher than is justified. When the 12 month moratorium by AIB and BOI was announced as part of the recapitalisation, Moody's rating agency were quite critical and the Fitch rating agency published comment with some negative material about mortgage lending in Ireland. While the banks funding position has improved in recent months, it is still quite difficult, even with the benefit of the State Guarantees. It is essential therefore that nothing is done to raise further fears about the quality of mortgage loan books.
Mortgage Arrears.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:114 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance his views on the fact that borrowers remain liable for any outstanding debts and related costs following the repossession of their homes in a context of growing mortgage arrears, negative equity, pay cuts and unemployment; and if he will take legislative or other steps to address this matter. [15874/10]
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:116 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance if he will take the legislative or other steps necessary to oblige banks availing of NAMA to write off the difference between the purchase price of the dwelling and its current market value for those households with mortgages taken out on primary residences since 2004 up to €500,000 in view of the growing negative equity problems in conjunction with mortgage arrears. [15876/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 114 and 116 together.
There have been a number of developments relating to the Government's commitments in the Renewed Programme for Government dealing with Protecting the Family Home and Helping Those in Debt. In particular I refer to the recent establishment of the expert group on Mortgage Arrears and Personal Debt (Group) under the Chairmanship of Mr. Hugh Cooney.
The Group's Terms of Reference which I approved were incorporated into the supplementary documentation for my Statement on Banking which I delivered to this House on 30 March 2010. This expert Group has commenced its work, and will focus initially on bringing forward recommendations in dealing with the mortgage arrears problem and will later address the personal debt issue.
I expect that the Group's recommendations will be made to me on a rolling basis as the Group progresses with its review with a final report on the mortgage arrears issues completed by end June 2010. I will then consider the merits of each of the recommendations before deciding on whether to submit to Government for decision. The Deputy will appreciate that all proposals will need to be fully costed before being recommended to Government and will also have to represent value for money from the point of view of the Government and taxpayers.
I am confident that the Group will, as part of its important work, examine all realistic options available to assist mortgage holders and those who are in debt during this difficult economic period, without raising concerns in the international markets about the quality of the mortgage loan books.
The Deputy will be aware that mortgage financing is typically a long-term contract, which involves a balance of obligations between lender and borrower. Home buyers are able to obtain mortgage finance at a price far below that of other lending largely because the loan is secured on the property. Major alterations to the nature of mortgage contracts would mean that mortgages would become much more expensive to buyers.
Question No. 115 answered with Question No. 112.
Question No. 116 answered with Question No. 114.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:117 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider banning the charging of penalty interest on mortgage arrears. [15877/10]
The Financial Regulator has statutory responsibility for the regulation of non-interest related banking charges under Section 149 of the Consumer Credit Act 1995. Credit institutions are obliged to seek the prior approval of the Regulator before any increase in such fees. I, as Minister for Finance have no role in the matter. For the purposes of Section 149 a charge includes a penalty interest in respect of arrears on a loan.
My Department has however been advised by the Financial Regulator that it is concerned that mortgage lenders treat their customers fairly.
In December 2009, the Financial Regulator wrote to mortgage lenders about the charges they impose in respect of mortgage arrears. In that letter the Financial Regulator said that while such charges may have been approved under Section 149 it was requesting lenders to impose charges only where they could be justified, having considered the individual consumer's circumstances. Also in that letter the Financial Regulator reminded lenders of the requirement of the Financial Regulator's "Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears" to handle arrears cases sympathetically and positively with the objective of assisting consumers to meet their obligations. The Financial Regulator also indicated that any charges that are applied must be based only on the costs incurred by the institution in managing the arrears case. It requested institutions to consider not applying arrears charges where the consumer is unable to make repayments in the immediate term due , for example, to job loss.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:118 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance if the expert group set up to investigate the issue of increasing mortgage arrears has reported any interim findings or recommendations; and if so, if he will give details of same; and if not, when such a report is expected. [15878/10]
As the Deputy is aware, on 25th February 2010, I informed the Government of my proposals to extend the membership of the then Interdepartmental Mortgage Arrears Group to include external experts under the Chairmanship of Mr. Hugh Cooney an insolvency accountant. The external members of this expert group (Group) were selected on the basis of their individual expertise in areas relating to mortgage arrears and personal debt.
As of today's date (21st April 2010) I have not received any interim findings or recommendations from the Group. The revamped Group has commenced its work, and is meeting regularly. I understand that the emphasis will initially be on exploring the feasibility of a range of possible options for improving the level of mortgage support to homeowners in difficulty. Proposals will be based on factual information gathered by the Group and will take into account the findings of existing reports and mortgage support schemes in operation in other jurisdictions. I expect that these recommendations will be made to me on a rolling basis as the Group progresses with its findings and that a final report on this phase of the review will be ready by end June 2010.
Tax Collection.
Jack Wall
Question:119 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare can receive a P21 Balancing Statement in respect of 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15889/10]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a PAYE Balancing Statement P21 for the year 2008 issued to the person concerned on 15th January 2010. In addition copies of the balancing statement were issued on the 18th and 24th March 2010.
Leo Varadkar
Question:120 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the estimated tax receipts received from small and medium sized enterprises in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15895/10]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that identifying figures of tax receipts from small and medium enterprises would depend on how these enterprises are defined and whether the details of such a definition could be associated with the appropriate data on Revenue tax records.
The relevant figures in this area that are currently available to Revenue are as contained in Table CTS 1 in the Statistical Report of the Revenue Commissioners for 2008 in respect of 2007, the latest year for which such figures are available. This information can be found on the Revenue website at www.revenue.ie. Table CTS 1 shows that for accounting periods ended in 2007 companies with a net trading income of €500,000 or under, which represented approximately 54,000 taxpaying companies out of a total of 59,000 cases, contributed approximately €700 million of the total Corporation Tax liability of €6.3 billion. By contrast, 574 firms with a net trading income of over €10 million contributed approximately €4.5 billion.
Flood Relief.
Billy Timmins
Question:121 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the provision of funding in respect of flood relief works following a request from Wicklow County Council; the details of these applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15912/10]
Wicklow County Council have submitted a number of applications for funding under the minor works scheme initiated by the Office of Public Works in 2009. Following a qualitative assessment of these applications, funding totalling €283,500 has been allocated to the Council in 2010 for works at two locations at Boghall Road, Bray involving the upgrading and installation of pipes, and for a coastal protection study at Arklow. Other applications are still being assessed in conjunction with the Council, and a decision will be made shortly in respect of these. It will be open to Wicklow County Council to submit further applications for funding during the remainder of the year.
Tax Collection.
Finian McGrath
Question:122 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will support a matter (details supplied). [15921/10]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, following consideration of the circumstances of the case, they indicated to the parties involved on 27 October 2009 that they were prepared to mitigate the interest on late payment of Stamp Duty to the amount chargeable on 31 May 2007, which was the date at which the individuals put their former solicitor in funds to pay the Duty on their behalf. The mitigation amounted to a reduction from €24,760 to €8,810.
On 25 February 2010, Revenue wrote to the current solicitor representing the parties to advise that it would consider further mitigation if more evidence were provided. Specifically, the solicitor was requested to forward copies of all correspondence with the Law Society in this matter, to include specific details of their claim for compensation from the Law Society. The matter cannot be considered further until this information is received.
Revenue regrets that the Deputy did not yet receive a further reply to his Parliamentary Question to which Revenue issued an interim reply on 4 March 2010. This delay has occurred as a result of industrial action in the Office of the Revenue Commissioners.
Financial Services Regulation.
Richard Bruton
Question:123 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that many mortgage protection policies are written in such a way that a redundant person covered by the policy will sacrifice his or her rights under the policy if he or she takes up short term work and will be debarred from receiving the policy having once made a claim; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15973/10]
The Financial Regulator has informed me that it is aware that conditions such as the one referred to in the Parliamentary Question can be a part of a mortgage protection policy. However as the make-up and content of products is a commercial decision for an insurer on the basis of their risk analysis, the Financial Regulator has no influence over such matters.
The Financial Regulator does have a role in ensuring that the statutory Consumer Protection Code ("the Code") is being complied with. The General Principles of the Code govern the sale of products and require that a regulated entity "acts honestly, fairly and professionally in the best interest of its customers and the integrity of the market." In particular the Code requires that a regulated entity must ensure that key items are brought to the attention of the consumer and that the method of presentation must not disguise, diminish or obscure important information.
In addition to the above, responsibility also rests with the consumer for making sure that he/she understands the terms and conditions of a policy before purchasing it.
Flood Relief.
Michael Noonan
Question:124 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for Finance when permanent levees to replace the temporary levees which were erected by the Office of Public Works at Shannon Banks, Corbally, County Limerick will be put in place; the nature of the permanent levees; their height and location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15974/10]
Subject to agreement with Clare County Council, and following further consultation with local residents, the Office of Public Works proposes to carry out works on the existing embankments at Shannon Banks during the Summer. Following an assessment of recent water levels, it is proposed to reduce the height of the embankments by 300-500 mm in order to reduce visual impact and to decrease their side slopes. It is proposed to establish grass cover on the embankments. It is also proposed to re-locate part of the embankments further away from a number of properties in the Hampstead Park area.
Tax Code.
Finian McGrath
Question:125 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider a submission (details supplied). [15976/10]
As the Deputy is aware, all taxes and potential taxation measures continue to be reviewed on an ongoing basis, particularly in the context of the annual Budget and Finance Bill process. The submission on a new property tax will be considered on this basis.
Social Welfare Benefits.
Róisín Shortall
Question:126 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children if an agreement is in place to administer the back to school clothing and footwear allowance in 2010; if not, the deadline to finalise arrangements. [16095/10]
I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. 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.
Pat Breen
Question:127 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to reports that the intensive care unit and associated anaesthetic cover is to be removed from the Mid-Western Region Hospital, Ennis, County Clare as and from July 2010; her views regarding same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15858/10]
Pat Breen
Question:128 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of the planned upgrade of the Mid-Western Regional Hospital, Ennis, County Clare; when she expects this project to commence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15859/10]
Pat Breen
Question:129 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children her views in relation to the future of the Mid-Western Regional Hospital, Ennis, County Clare; if this hospital will continue as an acute medical hospital into the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15860/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 127 to 129, inclusive, together.
The HSE has made significant progress on reconfiguring acute hospital and related services in the Mid West region informed by the Teamwork/Horwath Report and the Health Information and Quality Authority Report on Ennis, which was published in April 2009. These Reports highlighted the need for changes to be made in the organisation and provision of acute hospital services across the Mid West region as they found services there to be too fragmented, to carry increased risks for patients and staff and to be unsustainable in their present form.
The reconfiguration of services in the Mid-West Region began in early April, 2009. This involved the cessation of 24-hour Accident and Emergency services at Ennis and Nenagh. These hospitals now provide an urgent care/minor injuries service for 12 hours a day as part of a regional Accident and Emergency structure.
The level of staffing of the ambulance services in Clare and North Tipperary has been enhanced and an advanced 24-hour paramedic service is also now in operation. Protocols are in place to ensure that all trauma, paediatric and obstetric emergency cases are brought directly to the major tertiary centre at Limerick Regional Hospital.
All planned and emergency in-patient surgery has been moved from Ennis and Nenagh to Limerick Regional Hospital since early October, 2009. Ennis and Nenagh Hospitals are however undertaking an expanded range of day case surgery and diagnostic work.
As part of its regional reconfiguration plan the HSE is centralising all critical care services at Limerick Regional Hospital in the interests of promoting patient safety and improving the quality of patient care. These services are currently provided across four hospitals. In this context a new critical care block is planned for Limerick Regional Hospital. The HSE's draft capital plan is currently under consideration and details of capital projects will be made available when the plan has been approved.
I am satisfied that the measures being taken by the HSE are necessary and appropriate in order to ensure the provision of safe and effective health services to the people of the Mid West region.
Medical Cards.
Mary Upton
Question:130 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress that has been made on resolving the issue of chiropody charges to medical card holders; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15869/10]
I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.
Michael Creed
Question:131 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will receive a decision on their application for a medical card; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15870/10]
I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. 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 Creed
Question:132 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. [15871/10]
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 Creed
Question:133 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. [15880/10]
I have received a number of representations regarding the report referred to in the Deputy's question. The issues raised in the report are similar to some of the issues under consideration by the Value for Money Policy Review i.e. the model of service for children with disabilities and the appropriate setting for their care and support. My Department asked the Health Service Executive to discuss the report with the Jack and Jill Foundation as part of its on-going engagement with the Foundation and the HSE have now made arrangements for a meeting with the Foundation.
Finian McGrath
Question:134 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [15882/10]
I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. 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:135 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support persons (details supplied). [15883/10]
I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. 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:136 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be facilitated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15886/10]
I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. 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:137 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will expedite a surgical appointment in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15891/10]
I regret that due to industrial action I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. The scheduling of patients for hospital treatment is a matter for the consultant concerned in each case and is determined on the basis of clinical need. Should the patient's general practitioner consider that the patient's condition warrants an earlier appointment, he/she would be in the best position to take the matter up with the consultant involved.
Health Services.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:138 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide an update on the proposed primary health care centre at Corduff, Dublin 15, specifically identifying the proposed site; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15902/10]
I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:139 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will consider correspondence in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15904/10]
This is a matter between the patient and her general practitioner and my Department has been informed by the Public Health Department at the HSE that this patient is continuing under the care of her GP. If the GP is concerned about a possible adverse reaction to a vaccination, he should contact the Irish Medicines Board in this regard.
Land Usage.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:140 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will confirm the proposed use of lands (details supplied) owned by the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15905/10]
I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.
Organ Transplants.
Mary Upton
Question:141 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of double lung transplants carried out to date in the specialised unit at the Mater Hospital, Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15922/10]
As this is a service issue, I wish to advise the Deputy that, due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive, it is not possible for the Executive to supply current information in relation to the number of double lung transplants carried out to date in the Mater Hospital.
Mary Upton
Question:142 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of cystic fibrosis patients who have received double lung transplants at the Mater Hospital, Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15923/10]
As this is a service issue, I wish to advise the Deputy that, due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive, it is not possible for the Executive to supply current information in relation to the number of Cystic Fibrosis patients who have received double lung transplants at the Mater Hospital.
Hospital Accommodation.
Mary Upton
Question:143 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made in relation to the promised cystic fibrosis unit at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15924/10]
A new ward block to replace existing accommodation is being developed at the hospital. This facility will provide single room en-suite in-patient accommodation (100 rooms) and a dedicated day unit for people with CF, including 10 single day treatment rooms with en-suite sanitary facilities. Tenders for this development are currently under consideration. It is estimated that the construction, equipping and commissioning of this block will take approximately 18 months. The aim is to have this new facility operational as soon as possible in 2011.
Hospital Waiting Lists.
Mary Upton
Question:144 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of Irish patients on the waiting list for lung transplants at the Mater hospital, Dublin and at hospitals outside of Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15925/10]
As this is a service issue, I wish to advise the Deputy that, due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive, it is not possible for the Executive to supply current information in relation to the number of Irish patients on the waiting list for lung transplants at the Mater Hospital and at hospitals outside of Ireland.
Hospital Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:145 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a surgical procedure will be arranged in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16094/10]
I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. 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:146 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a medical card application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16105/10]
I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.
Search and Rescue Service.
Jimmy Deenihan
Question:147 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Transport the reason he chose to hire private contractors to provide search and rescue facilities when the Air Corps possesses six helicopters suitable to fill the role and has the staff capable for being trained for such a role; if he will in future, prior to the signing of contracts, assess whether the Defence Forces have the capability to fulfil part or all of a role required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15995/10]
Both the Department of Transport and the Department of Defence considered the possibility of the Department of Defence taking over responsibility for maritime Search and Rescue operations. The Department of Defence consulted with the Aer Corps at that time. However the potential for the Air Corps to re-enter this area of operations is not feasible.
Contract search and rescue helicopter services have been provided in Ireland since 1991. The entire delivery of our national aeronautical search and rescue service fully transferred to contract delivery since 2004. The Aer Corps has not been involved in helicopter search and rescue in the maritime domain since then and could not re-enter this role except through significant investment and training over a long period of time.
The Air Corps was fully withdrawn from Maritime SAR in 2004 after a considered assessment of the capacity of the Air Corps following operational difficulties. The Air Corps was not in a position to provide the level of service that was required on a consistent and continuous basis. The current Air Corps helicopter assets are not configured for maritime search and rescue nor does it have pilots or winchmen with the required training and experience to support such operations. Indeed it should be noted that the smaller Aer Corps EC135 or AW139 helicopters do not provide the maritime search and rescue capacity and capability of the Sikorsky S92A's that will be provided on the new contract.
Using the Air Corps helicopter fleet for Maritime SAR would require large capital and current investment. Additional helicopters would have to be purchased, existing helicopters would have to converted into SAR aircraft, additional helicopter crews and support staff would have to be recruited and trained.
The new contract with CHC will run for 10 years and will represent a stepped improvement in the safety, range, speed, and capability of Ireland's SAR service, using modern medium-load helicopters. CHC Ireland is also the current service provider.
Road Network.
Fergus O'Dowd
Question:148 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport his views on the Leinster orbital route; if he has examined the feasibility study produced by the National Roads Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15867/10]
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme element of Transport 21. The construction, improvement and maintenance of individual national road projects, including the Leinster Orbital Route, is a matter for the National Roads Authority under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
In April 2007, the NRA presented to me a completed feasibility study, which built on an earlier 2001 study. This study looked at the costs and benefits of such a route. The study finds that there is merit in constructing an Orbital Route linking Drogheda/Navan/Naas. Overall, the study concludes that the route is economically viable, technically feasible and strategically beneficial.
Neither Transport 21 nor the National Development Plan provides any funding for a Leinster Orbital Route. The Government has already made it clear that, under Transport 21, its priorities for the national roads investment programme, after the completion of the major inter-urban network in 2010, will be the Atlantic Road Corridor as well as the improvement of other key national primary routes and the targeted improvement of certain national secondary routes.
Under the Renewed Programme for Government a review of the national road programme is underway at present which is scheduled for completion by late Summer.
Irrespective of the above, progress on projects such as the Leinster Orbital Route will only be possible as and when financial resources become available.
Garda Stations.
Jimmy Deenihan
Question:149 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a contractor has been appointed to build a new Garda station in Castleisland, County Kerry; when work will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15975/10]
I am advised by the Office of Public Works that tenders for the provision of a new Garda station at Castleisland are currently being evaluated. Upon completion of this process a contract will be put in place and works will commence thereafter.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:150 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will use his veto to prevent the admission of Israel as a member of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development until such time as Israel ends its occupation of Palestinian territory, ends the systemic and institutionalised racism and discrimination against all Palestinians living in Israel which amounts to an apartheid system and second class citizenship and recognises the right of all Palestinian refugees to return and acts accordingly. [16000/10]
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has periodically enlarged its membership since its foundation with 20 Members, including Ireland, in 1961. It currently has 30 members, with the Slovak Republic the most recent to accede, in 2000.
In 2007, the OECD Ministerial Council Meeting decided, by consensus, to open accession discussions with Chile, Estonia, Israel, the Russian Federation and Slovenia.
The OECD accession process involves submission of an initial memorandum (which sets out the country's position on more than 200 OECD legal instruments), technical accession reviews by 22 OECD committees assessing the country's compliance with the OECD acquis (obligations include liberalisation commitments under the OECD investment instruments, adoption of national laws which comply with the requirements of the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention as well as commitments related to environmental policy), and a final decision by the Council of the OECD to invite the candidate country to accede.
An invitation to accede to the OECD is based upon the applicant country's compliance with the Organisation's acquis and does not relate to or imply approval for other actions or policies of that State.
An accession agreement with Chile was signed on 11 January of this year and it will accede formally to the Organisation once ratification procedures are completed.
It is expected that Slovenia, Estonia and Israel will complete their accession procedures this year. The accession process for Russia is moving at a slower pace and there is no predicted date for completion.
In the case of Israel, on the basis of formal opinions and all other relevant technical information, the Secretary-General of the OECD has recommended to the OECD Council that Israel be invited to accede to the Organisation. It is expected that the OECD Council will address this matter over the period ahead.
During the Israeli accession negotiations, the EU has adopted a cohesive approach and plans to issue a common statement at the OECD Council when a decision to formally invite Israel to become a member is taken in the coming weeks. It is anticipated that the EU will note that Israel has taken a number of important steps through the adoption of new legislation, regulations and policy directions in many areas, including anti-corruption, the environment, competition and intellectual property rights.
It is expected that the EU statement will also state that Israel is expected to demonstrate readiness for compliance with the recommendations made by OECD bodies in the accession process and to pursue reforms, especially in areas where implementation periods were granted or where commitments have been undertaken.
Taking all requirements of the accession process into consideration it is expected that Ireland will join with the other 29 members of the OECD to formally invite Israel to become a member. We will work with partners in ensuring that Israel fully complies with all the obligations arising from OECD membership.
Human Rights Issues.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:151 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will advocate a policy of boycott, divestment and sanction against Israel by Ireland and the EU in protest against the institutionalised and systemic racism and discrimination against Arabs living in Israel which amounts to a system of apartheid; his views on whether it is untenable to reward a country with preferential trade whose basic law prohibits non-Jews from purchasing 93% of the land and provides that nationals have many more rights than citizens while excluding non-Jewish citizens from being nationals and for which it has been condemned by a US State Department report. [16001/10]
I have been frank and open in criticising aspects of Israeli policies in relation to both political and human rights issues, and in raising these bilaterally and at EU level.
However, as I have made clear on many occasions, including most recently at the ICTU Conference on Palestine held on 16 April 2010, the Government does not support proposals for trade, academic, cultural or other boycotts against Israel. This has been the consistent policy of successive Irish Governments.
Similarly, and as I have stated on many occasions, I do not believe it would be either helpful or feasible to seek the suspension of the operation of the EU-Israel Association Agreement or the trade benefits it confers, despite our many and clear differences with Israel on issues relating to their continuing occupation of Palestinian Territories. Such an approach would not increase our influence on Israeli policy or public opinion, nor among our EU colleagues. Nor is there any possibility of reaching agreement on such a policy at EU level, which would in fact require a consensus in favour of such sanctions.
Cultural Institutions.
Mary Upton
Question:152 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Arts, Sports and Tourism her views on the storage conditions for works of art owned by the State; her views on the storage facilities for works of art in the State galleries; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15864/10]
The majority of the State's National Collecting Cultural Institutions operate as autonomous statutory bodies in accordance with the provisions of the relevant legislation which includes, inter alia, the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997; the National Gallery of Ireland Act 1928, as amended and the National Archives Act 1986. The Crawford Art Gallery Cork and the Irish Museum of Modern Art are both incorporated as companies limited by Guarantee in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 1963-2005. The Chester Beatty Library is a public charitable trust.
The Board of each Institution is responsible for all operational matters relating to the institution, including storage, and I, as Minister for Arts, Sports and Tourism, do not have a statutory function in respect of operational matters.
However, I can confirm that my Department has worked and continues to work in collaboration with the Office of Public Works to improve storage facilities at our National Cultural Institutions. This work includes the recent provision of suitable off site storage facilities for the National Museum of Ireland and the provision of both on and off site storage facilities for the Irish Museum of Modern Art. Storage facilities in the National Library and the National Archives need to be improved and my Department has requested these organisations to work with the Office of Public Works in order to provide both medium term solutions for collections storage and to plan for permanent solutions as the availability of resources permits.
Social Welfare Benefits.
Michael Creed
Question:153 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork did not qualify for supplementary welfare allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15906/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
Andrew Doyle
Question:154 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of farmers who applied for farm assist in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009; the amount paid under farm assist in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15986/10]
The following table outlines the number of applications for farm assist received in each year from 2005 to 2009 and the annual expenditure in the same period:
|
Applications |
Expenditure |
|
|
€ |
||
|
2005 |
1,493 |
67,284,000 |
|
2006 |
1,290 |
71,085,000 |
|
2007 |
783 |
76,686,000 |
|
2008 |
1,001 |
84,881,000 |
|
2009 |
2,829 |
93,297,000 |
The farm assist scheme which was introduced in the Social Welfare Act, 1999 is a response by the Department to the situation of low-income farmers and it represents a long-term safety net for them. It benefits farm families with children and also provides increased payments to farming couples without children and to single farmers on low income.
While this means-tested payment is broadly similar to the jobseeker's allowance scheme, it has a more generous means test, which takes account of the specific nature of farming and, unlike jobseeker's allowance, farmers claiming this payment do not need to be available for work outside of the farm in order to qualify.
Pension Provisions.
Michael Ring
Question:155 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Galway will be approved a State contributory pension. [15866/10]
Michael Ring
Question:167 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved and paid disability allowance. [16104/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 155 and 167 together.
A claim for State Pension (Contributory) submitted by the person concerned is currently being processed. He will be notified of the outcome of a decision on his entitlement in due course. The Department has no record of an application for Disability Allowance for this person.
Questions Nos. 156 and 157 withdrawn.
Social Welfare Appeals.
Michael Ring
Question:158 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a carer’s allowance appeal by a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be finalised. [15907/10]
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that, following receipt of the relevant Departmental papers including comments on the grounds of appeal, the appeal from the person concerned will be referred to an Appeals Officer for consideration.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office is an office of the Department that is independently responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
Question No. 159 withdrawn.
Willie O'Dea
Question:160 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a decision will be made in relation to an appeal for invalidity pension in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [15977/10]
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that, in accordance with statutory requirements, the relevant Departmental papers and comments of the Department have been sought in this case. On receipt of its response the case will be referred to an Appeals Officer for consideration.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office is an office of the Department that is independently responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
Questions Nos. 161 to 163, inclusive, withdrawn.
Social Welfare Benefits.
Jack Wall
Question:164 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position regarding an application for rent allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15999/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
Róisín Shortall
Question:165 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Louth is considered to be €3 per week over the qualifying limit for mortgage interest supplement and is being denied support despite their low income; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16101/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
Question No. 166 withdrawn.
Question No. 167 answered with Question No. 155.
Question No. 168 withdrawn.
Question No. 169 answered with Question No. 85.
Defence Forces Recruitment.
Brian O'Shea
Question:170 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Defence if he will raise the age limit for recruitment to the Defence Forces in 2010 by one year in view of the fact that there was no recruitment in 2009. [15852/10]
The 2000 White Paper on Defence and the earlier Defence Force Review Implementation Plan both identified the requirement to address the 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.
I am satisfied that the existing age requirements for recruitment to the Permanent Defence Force are appropriate and I do not propose to make any changes in this area at this time.
National Emergency Plan.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:171 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the chain and sequence of command and operational structures governing the national emergency plan; the way in which such plans are likely to be activated in the future; the sequence of events leading up to such activation; the person or persons with overall responsibility in such matters; the degree to which a communications and advice centre is provided for in such plans having particular regard to the situation likely to arise in the event of either a natural disaster or a terrorist attack; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15987/10]
Emergency plans are in place for a number of specific emergency scenarios such as an influenza pandemic or a nuclear incident. As the Deputy will be aware, emergency planning in this country is developed on the "lead department" principle. This means that each department is responsible for planning for emergencies that fall within its area of responsibility and for activating its emergency plans and procedures when so required. These plans and procedures include arrangements for keeping the public informed and up-to-date.
The lead department liaises with the Office of Emergency Planning in my Department when activation of the National Emergency Coordination Centre is required. Where appropriate, the Office of Emergency Planning provides support to the lead department in coordinating a "whole of government" response to an emergency situation.
The National Emergency Coordination Centre is a dedicated multifunctional facility in which ministers and/or senior officials convene to coordinate the response to a major emergency. The Centre is equipped with the latest robust communications systems. It was activated during the recent severe weather emergencies and is currently in use for the response to emergency situation caused by the volcanic ash plume.
In respect of emergency planning generally, the Government Task Force for Emergency Planning supports coordination of emergency planning across departments and key agencies. The Task Force, which I chair, meets on a regular basis and there have been 60 meetings since it was established in 2001. It provides a forum for sharing information and keeping emergency planning high on the agenda of all government departments. Potential threats to the State arising from international terrorism are continuously monitored by those involved, principally An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces. They provide a security threat analysis at every meeting of the Task Force. The current threat is low.
The Framework for Major Emergency Management is the document that sets out a structure enabling the Principal Response Agencies (An Garda Síochána, the Health Service Executive and Local Authorities) to prepare for, and make a coordinated response to, major emergencies resulting from events such as fires, transport accidents, hazardous substance incidents and severe weather.
Defence Forces Property.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:172 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence the cost of using private security firms to secure Defence Force’s barracks each year for the last three years. [16002/10]
My Department does not employ any private security firm to secure barracks occupied by the Defence Forces.
However, private firms have, on occasion, been used to secure property that has been vacated by the Military. The cost incurred in 2008 was €166,851.73, in 2009 was €23,123.43 and to date in 2010 is €2,399.72.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:173 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the number of army overholders; the extent to which negotiations are taking place or have taken place with local authorities with a view to meeting the housing requirements of such persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16085/10]
There were 54 military properties overheld at 31 December 2009. Of these 54, agreements are in place with 11 of the occupants to purchase the properties as they are located outside of barracks. Negotiations to sell will soon commence in another two cases that are also situated outside barracks. The remaining 41 properties overheld are located at the Curragh, 38 within the confines of the camp and 3 outside the camp. A number of discussions have taken place over the past two years with the local authority in question and it has housed some of the occupants. It is the intention of the Department, over the coming months, to address the situations of overholders. It is likely that this will result in increase in demand for local authority housing by a number of the occupants while others will have their situation regularised.
Defence Forces Strength.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:174 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the optimum strength of each of the Defence Forces at present and in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16086/10]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:179 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence his plans for the strength of each of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16091/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 174 and 179 together.
The White Paper on Defence of February 2000 sets out a figure of 10,500 personnel for the Permanent Defence Force comprising 930 for the Air Corps, 1,144 for the Naval Service and 8,426 for the Army.
I am advised by the military authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force as at 31 March 2010, the latest date for which figures are available was 9,877 broken down as follows; 800 for the Air Corps, 1,026 for the Naval Service and 8,051 for the Army.
Officials from the Department are continuing to engage with the Military Authorities in relation to a review of structures and posts required to meet the operational requirements of the Defence Forces in light of the Government decision to maintain a Permanent Defence Force complement of 10,000 personnel. The review has not yet been completed therefore it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the outcome at this stage.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:175 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the number of officers by rank and gender throughout the Defence Forces; the extent, if any, to which such numbers have fluctuated in recent years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16087/10]
The following tabular statements provide a breakdown of the number of officers serving in the Permanent Defence Force on the basis of both rank and gender for each of the years 2007, 2008 and 2009, and up to 31 March 2010, the latest date for which figures are available.
The Government is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for men and women throughout the Defence Forces and to the full participation by women in all aspects of Defence Forces activities. Unlike many other national armed forces, the Defence Forces have no restrictions as regards the assignment of men and women to the full range of operational and administrative duties. All promotions and career courses are open to both genders on merit.
I am advised that at this time the Defence Forces retain the capacity to undertake the tasks laid down by Government both at home and overseas.
|
LT GEN |
MAJ GEN |
BRIG GEN |
COL |
LT COL |
COMDT |
CAPT |
LT |
TOTAL OFFRS |
|
|
ARMY |
1 |
3 |
8 |
40 |
132 |
301 |
204 |
257 |
946 |
|
AIR CORPS |
1 |
2 |
14 |
30 |
56 |
29 |
132 |
||
|
NAVAL SERVICE |
1 |
2 |
12 |
42 |
41 |
43 |
141 |
||
|
TOTAL |
1 |
3 |
10 |
44 |
158 |
373 |
301 |
329 |
1,219 |
|
LT GEN |
MAJ GEN |
BRIG GEN |
COL |
LT COL |
COMDT |
CAPT |
LT |
TOTAL OFFRS |
|
|
ARMY |
1 |
18 |
44 |
40 |
103 |
||||
|
AIR CORPS |
3 |
2 |
5 |
||||||
|
NAVAL SERVICE |
10 |
8 |
18 |
||||||
|
TOTAL |
1 |
18 |
57 |
50 |
126 |
|
LT GEN |
MAJ GEN |
BRIG GEN |
COL |
LT COL |
COMDT |
CAPT |
LT |
TOTAL OFFRS |
|
|
ARMY |
1 |
2 |
6 |
31 |
113 |
271 |
240 |
266 |
930 |
|
AIR CORPS |
1 |
1 |
13 |
29 |
62 |
31 |
137 |
||
|
NAVAL SERVICE |
1 |
13 |
37 |
39 |
51 |
141 |
|||
|
TOTAL |
1 |
2 |
8 |
32 |
139 |
337 |
341 |
348 |
1,208 |
|
LT GEN |
MAJ GEN |
BRIG GEN |
COL |
LT COL |
COMDT |
CAPT |
LT |
TOTAL OFFRS |
|
|
ARMY |
1 |
3 |
7 |
41 |
130 |
284 |
189 |
305 |
960 |
|
AIR CORPS |
1 |
2 |
12 |
32 |
54 |
42 |
143 |
||
|
NAVAL SERVICE |
1 |
2 |
12 |
41 |
32 |
49 |
137 |
||
|
TOTAL |
1 |
3 |
9 |
45 |
154 |
357 |
275 |
396 |
1,240 |
|
LT GEN |
MAJ GEN |
BRIG GEN |
COL |
LT COL |
COMDT |
CAPT |
LT |
TOTAL OFFRS |
|
|
ARMY |
1 |
21 |
48 |
41 |
111 |
||||
|
AIR CORPS |
2 |
2 |
4 |
||||||
|
NAVAL SERVICE |
2 |
10 |
11 |
23 |
|||||
|
TOTAL |
1 |
23 |
60 |
54 |
138 |
|
LT GEN |
MAJ GEN |
BRIG GEN |
COL |
LT COL |
COMDT |
CAPT |
LT |
TOTAL OFFRS |
|
|
ARMY |
2 |
19 |
43 |
47 |
111 |
||||
|
AIR CORPS |
4 |
1 |
5 |
||||||
|
NAVAL SERVICE |
2 |
10 |
11 |
23 |
|||||
|
TOTAL |
2 |
21 |
57 |
59 |
139 |
|
LT GEN |
MAJ GEN |
BRIG GEN |
COL |
LT COL |
COMDT |
CAPT |
LT |
TOTAL OFFRS |
|
|
ARMY |
1 |
2 |
6 |
33 |
112 |
271 |
238 |
266 |
960 |
|
AIR CORPS |
1 |
1 |
14 |
28 |
62 |
31 |
142 |
||
|
NAVAL SERVICE |
1 |
1 |
12 |
36 |
39 |
51 |
134 |
||
|
TOTAL |
1 |
2 |
8 |
35 |
138 |
335 |
339 |
348 |
1,236 |
|
LT GEN |
MAJ GEN |
BRIG GEN |
COL |
LT COL |
COMDT |
CAPT |
LT |
TOTAL OFFRS |
|
|
ARMY |
2 |
19 |
42 |
51 |
114 |
||||
|
AIR CORPS |
4 |
2 |
5 |
||||||
|
NAVAL SERVICE |
2 |
10 |
12 |
24 |
|||||
|
TOTAL |
2 |
21 |
56 |
65 |
144 |
Defence Forces Equipment.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:176 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the number and category of aircraft available to the air corps; the extent to which training, equipment and technology is comparable to that of other such forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16088/10]
There are a total of 27 aircraft in operational service with the Air Corps at present, comprising 10 helicopters and 17 fixed wing aircraft. The types of the aircraft are set out in the following tabular statement, which will be circulated with the Official Report.
As the Deputy is aware, a very significant level of investment in new equipment for the Air Corps has taken place in recent years. The comprehensive investment programme included the delivery of the Pilatus training aircraft at a total cost of €60m, the acquisition of two light utility EC 135 helicopters from Eurocopter S.A.S. at a cost of €12.8m, the acquisition of six utility AW 139 helicopters from Agusta Westland, Italy at a cost of €75m and a major mid life upgrade on the two CASA maritime patrol aircraft at a cost of €16.5m.
On the issue of Air Corps training and technology, I am satisfied that Air Corps training techniques and the technologies involved are up to date in all respects. The Air Corps training plan is structured to provide the capabilities needed to execute the roles assigned to the Air Corps by Government and any comparison with other Air Forces is not relevant.
|
Aircraft Type |
Number in Service |
|
Helicopters |
|
|
Agusta Westland — AW 139 |
6 |
|
Eurocopter — EC 135 |
*4 |
|
Fixed Wing |
|
|
Cessna |
5 |
|
Gulfstream IV |
1 |
|
CASA Maritime Patrol Aircraft |
2 |
|
Defender* |
1 |
|
Learjet |
1 |
|
Pilatus |
7 |
|
Total |
28 |
*Two from four EC 135s and the Defender fixed-wing aircraft are owned by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform but operated by the Air Corps as part of the Garda Air Support Unit.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:177 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent, if any, to which military equipment including vehicles, vessels, planes, technology and or military hardware are upgrading or likely to be upgraded on an annual basis in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16089/10]
There has been very significant investment in equipment for the Defence Forces in recent years covering the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service. The acquisition of new equipment for the Defence Forces will remain a key focus for me as Minister for Defence. It is, however, imperative that my Department and the Defence Forces look to whatever efficiencies we can make taking into account the current difficult economic environment and the overall financial envelope available for the Department for the acquisition of new military equipment and for upgrading and refurbishment programmes over the coming years. The budgetary situation will dictate the level of funding available for new equipment and upgrades in that period and decisions will be made accordingly.
Several important equipment purchases will be advanced this year including the acquisition of twenty-seven Light Tactical Armoured Vehicles, ¾ Ton 4 × 4 vehicles and Heavy Recovery Vehicles for the Defence Forces. A decision on the Naval Service Ship replacement programme will also be taken in the near future.
Defence Forces Strength.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:178 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the number of positions to be filled at all ranks throughout the Defence Forces at the present time; the length of time such posts have been vacant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16090/10]
The Government is committed to maintaining the strength of the Defence Forces at a level of 10,000 all ranks, for which Government approval has been secured in the context of Budget 2010. This reflects the reductions in personnel recommended in the Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes.
The following table shows the total strength of the Permanent Defence Force on a monthly basis for the period since November 2009:
|
Date |
Total No. of PDF Serving |
Difference between authorised and actual strength |
|
30 November 2009 |
9,963 |
37 |
|
31 December 2009 |
9,933 |
67 |
|
31 January 2010 |
9,906 |
94 |
|
28 February 2010 |
9,893 |
107 |
|
31 March 2010 |
9,877 |
123 |
The distribution of these vacancies between the various formations is being managed by the Chief of Staff on an ongoing basis. I can confirm that officials from the Department are continuing to engage with the Military Authorities in relation to a review of structures and posts required to meet the operational requirements of the Defence Forces. This review is being undertaken in light of the Government decision to maintain a Permanent Defence Force complement of 10,000 personnel.
Question No. 179 answered with Question No. 174.
Questions Nos. 180 and 181 answered with Question No. 58.
Local Government Charges.
Mary Upton
Question:182 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will address the concerns of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12 regarding the early demand for the payment of the charge on second homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15879/10]
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.
World Heritage Sites.
Andrew Doyle
Question:183 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the roles, responsibilities and restrictions on local communities in which a world heritage site is located; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15865/10]
The proposed nomination of a property to the World Heritage List requires the preparation of comprehensive nomination documentation including a management plan for the property. Consultation will take place with the relevant stakeholders including local communities in the preparation of this documentation for future nominations. The Management Plan outlines the framework for the property as regards its management, conservation, presentation, visitor management, and the legislative provisions for the protection of the Outstanding Universal Value of the property. The Plan also sets out the arrangements for liaison with the local community and other stakeholders in order to facilitate its implementation.
Information and Communications Technology.
Noel Grealish
Question:184 Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if fibre-optic cable, lit and unlit, is currently available within County Galway; the owners of this fibre; if it is available to third parties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15980/10]
The State owned Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) Galway city and county and the ESBT owned fibre optic network that passes through the county are available to all services providers on an open access basis. Under Phase I of the MANs programme, my Department, in conjunction with Galway City Council, constructed an open access optical fibre network around Galway city. This network has been managed by e|net since 2005 and offers duct space, dark fibre and managed services to telecommunications service providers. The network is lit and a number of operators are providing services to customers using the MAN.
Under Phase II of the programme a further five MANs were constructed in county Galway in the towns of Athenry, Ballinasloe, Clifden, Gort and Loughrea. These networks were taken in charge by e|net on the 31st August 2009 and are available to service providers.
I understand some service providers also have their own privately constructed optical fibre infrastructure in county Galway, the details of which are a matter for the individual service providers concerned.
Grant Payments.
Michael Creed
Question:185 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will receive payment under their REPS 4 application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15896/10]
My officials contacted the person named on 5 November 2009 requesting an amended agri-environmental plan. This plan was not received until 12 March 2010 and his application is currently being processed.
Michael Creed
Question:186 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork is having difficulty with regard to their suckler cow welfare scheme payment arising from alleged errors in calf registration for which responsibility does not rest with the applicant; if he will make arrangements for payment in this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15897/10]
The person named had 39 animals for consideration under the 2009 Suckler Welfare Scheme. My Department has issued payments in respect of 27 eligible animals to date. My Department is currently resolving issues relating to the two remaining eligible calves in the herd and payment for these animals should issue shortly.
Bovine Disease Controls.
Michael Creed
Question:187 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will clarify the position regarding an entitlement to payment under a herd number (details supplied); if in view of the financial circumstances which are known to officials in his Department regarding this herd number, he will arrange for a resolution to this impasse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15899/10]
A herd number is an administrative arrangement designed primarily for the purposes of disease control under the disease eradication schemes, which involves the allocation of a number to a herd as provided for under S.I. No. 276 of 1999 (European communities (Identification and registration of bovine animals) Regulations 1999). The Department requires the nomination of a "keeper" to be the legal person responsible for animals, whether on a permanent or on a temporary basis, including during transportation or at a market.
With regard to payments under the various schemes implemented by my Department, the position is that because the "keeper" role is classified as a non-financial role and does not infer ownership of the lands or animals in the herd, payments are made to "herdowners" rather than to "keepers". In many cases, both the keeper and the herdowner are one and the same. However, persons, such as family members or spouses, who are not registered as "keepers" but wish to register an interest in the herdnumber, may be registered as "herdowners" and, accordingly, may qualify for payment under these schemes. The person named in the Parliamentary Question is not the Registered Herdowner of the Herd Number referred to. However, my Department's District Veterinary Office is currently engaged in discussions with a family member associated with the herd concerned regarding the "keeper" and"herdowner" roles.
Rural Environment Protection Scheme.
Michael Creed
Question:188 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 4 grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15903/10]
The person named applied for REPS in June 2009, after the annual closing date for applications laid down in EU Regulations, so if his application is successful his REPS contract will have a starting date in 2010. In accordance with EU Regulations, the first phase of his payment (75%) will therefore fall due in autumn 2010 when all administrative checks for REPS 4 participants have been completed. The balance can be paid when all on-farm inspections for 2010 are finished.
Installation Aid Scheme.
Michael Creed
Question:189 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will receive a decision on their application under the installation aid scheme in view of the fact that they have replied to his Department’s queries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15908/10]
The person concerned is an applicant under the Installation Aid Scheme. Under the terms of the Scheme, payment of the grant is made once it has been established that the requirements of the Scheme have been met, including the conditions in relation to property, education and income. The outcome of my Department's examination of the application will be made known to the applicant shortly.
Rural Environment Protection Scheme.
Michael Creed
Question:190 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will receive payment under their REP scheme 4 application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15916/10]
Processing of the REPS 4 application from the person named cannot proceed until issues relating to his application for the Single Payment Scheme have been resolved.
Installation Aid Scheme.
Pat Breen
Question:191 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 497 of 2 March 2010, when an application will be processed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15979/10]
The person concerned is an applicant under the Young Farmers' Installation Scheme. His appeal to the Agriculture Appeals Office has been successful and his application is now being examined by my Department's inspectorate. He will be notified of the outcome shortly.
Afforestation Programme.
Bobby Aylward
Question:192 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if an application will be approved for additional acreage for inclusion in the forestry premium scheme in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny where an inspection has been carried out. [15994/10]
If the person in question wishes to add more land to his current application it will be necessary to make a formal application through his registered forester. This can be done by submitting a revised certified species map and an amended Page 5 of the original application. The revised application can then be processed in the normal way.
Special Educational Needs.
Finian McGrath
Question:193 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Science if she will support a person (details supplied) in County Kildare. [15881/10]
All primary schools were allocated Learning Support/Resource Teaching support through the General Allocation Model. These teaching resources were provided in order to enable schools provide additional teaching support to pupils who have learning support needs or who have been assessed as having a high incidence disability.
Prior to the introduction of the General Allocation Model, schools had to apply for additional teaching support for each pupil with an assessed disability. However, the introduction of the General Allocation Model means that schools no longer have to make applications for additional teaching support for pupils with high incidence of disability as the Learning Support/Resource teachers are already available in the school.
The school has advised my Department that the pupil in question is currently receiving 2.5 hours one-to-one support per week from the Learning Support/Resource teacher. In addition, the pupil is also supported in the classroom through the special needs assistant scheme.
Institutes of Technology.
Brian O'Shea
Question:194 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the application by Waterford Institute of Technology for upgrading to become the university of the south east; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15890/10]
The position is that applications have been received from three higher education institutions for designation as Universities; Waterford Institute of Technology, Dublin Institute of Technology and Cork Institute of Technology.
The issue of university designation does not just affect the institutions and the regions from which applications have been received; it also impacts on the future structure of the higher education system throughout the country. The Government wants to build on our strengths and to provide an environment where all our higher education institutions can develop in a way that best serves the country as a whole as well as the regions where they are based.
A High Level Group is currently developing a new national strategy for higher education. That Group is critically examining the roles and relationships of higher education institutions so that the system can deliver the levels of efficiency, performance, innovation and growth that will optimise Ireland's ‘smart' economic recovery and social development. The Strategy Group are expected to finalise their report before the summer and there are no plans to advance any of the current applications for university status before the Group completes its work.
Fee Paying Schools.
Michael McGrath
Question:195 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Science her policy regarding the funding of capital building projects for private fee-paying schools. [15898/10]
The schools referred to by the Deputy fall into two categories, namely, private fee paying schools which are recognised by my Department and private fee paying schools which are not.
Capital works in private schools which are not recognised by the Department are not funded by the Department.
Catholic fee paying schools recognised by the Department receive 50% of the costs of any capital project approved by the Department. All other fee paying schools recognised by the Department qualify for capital grant aid on the same basis as non-fee paying schools, which is 100% of the cost of an approved project less the appropriate local contribution.
Teaching Qualifications.
Pádraic McCormack
Question:196 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Science her plans to ensure that the Teaching Council recognise that Engineering Degrees and PHDs are a suitable background to teach mathematics at secondary level schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15918/10]
As the Deputy is aware the Teaching Council has statutory responsibility for the determination of the education, training and qualifications required for a person to be registered as a teacher. The requirements for registration with the Teaching Council are set out in its 2009 Registration Regulations and, in relation to the post-primary sector, the key qualifications requirements are: a recognised third-level degree consisting of at least three years of full-time study or equivalent and, where seeking registration for the purposes of teaching in the voluntary secondary, community or comprehensive sector an approved teacher education qualification.
An indicative list of recognised degrees, known as the "Approved Qualifications List" is published on the Teaching Council's website and this must be read in conjunction with the "Subject Specific Criteria". These criteria allow the Council to ensure that the particular subject and module options taken by any applicant in his or her degree are directed toward the post-primary syllabus in that subject and enable him or her to teach that subject at the highest standard i.e. Leaving Certificate (Higher Level). This is the case for mathematics.
Approximately 15 Engineering degrees are currently included on the Approved Qualifications list and the Teaching Council has informed my Department that many graduates of these programmes have been registered having demonstrated that they met the subject criteria and attained a suitable teacher education qualification. Graduates of other engineering programmes may apply to have their degree assessed having regard to the subject specific criteria and I understand that many have done so.
Entry to the teaching profession by people from a diverse range of backgrounds is welcomed by the Teaching Council. That said, the experience of the Council is that many engineering programmes cover mathematical concepts in an engineering context and may not include, in sufficient depth, areas that are important for teaching purposes.
School Accommodation.
Charles Flanagan
Question:197 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Science the number of prefabs being rented for schools in County Laois; the schools which are availing of rented prefabs; the number of prefabs allocated to each school in question in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16110/10]
Charles Flanagan
Question:198 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Science the number of prefabs owned by schools in County Laois; the schools at which these prefabs are located; the number of such prefabs owned by each school in question in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16111/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 197 and 198 together.
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.
A total of 51 prefabs are being rented by schools in County Laois and a tabular statement giving details of the schools concerned is set out as List 1.
In relation to the information sought by the Deputy regarding the schools in Co. Laois that own prefabs this information is not readily available pre-2008. I have however set out details of prefabs purchased by schools in Co. Laois since the beginning of 2008 and this information is set out as List 2.
|
Roll No. |
School Name |
Address |
Town/Townland |
County |
Desc of Rental |
Contract |
Start Date |
|
01556F |
Scoil Bhride NS |
Ballyroan |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
12/02/07 |
|
|
07183W |
St. Josephs GNS |
Davitt Road |
Mountmellick |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/07 |
|
07183W |
St. Josephs GNS |
Davitt Road |
Mountmellick |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/07 |
|
07636K |
St. Fintan BNS |
New Line Road |
Mountrath |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/06 |
|
12331L |
Rushall NS |
Pike of Rushall |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/11/00 |
|
12692B |
Kiladooley NS |
Ballybrophy |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/07/08 |
|
13643Q |
Emo NS |
Emo |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
08/02/07 |
|
13643Q |
Emo NS |
Emo |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
28/01/01 |
|
13643Q |
Emo NS |
Emo |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/04 |
|
13643Q |
Emo NS |
Emo |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
09/10/07 |
|
13643Q |
Emo NS |
Emo |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
09/10/07 |
|
13643Q |
Emo NS |
Emo |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
09/10/07 |
|
13643Q |
Emo NS |
Emo |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
09/10/07 |
|
13741Q |
Rath NS |
Ballybrittas |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/07 |
|
14260F |
South NS |
Ballacolla Road |
Abbeyleix |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/01 |
|
14838N |
Maryboro NS |
Stradbally Road |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/04 |
|
15446B |
Gaelscoil Thromaire |
Trumera |
Mountrath |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
23/04/07 |
|
15556I |
Presentation Convent |
Portarlington |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/07 |
|
|
17064U |
St. Patricks NS |
Ballylinan |
Athy |
Kildare (Laois) |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/11/00 |
|
17064U |
St. Patricks NS |
Ballylinan |
Athy |
Kildare (Laois) |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/05 |
|
17064U |
St. Patricks NS |
Ballylinan |
Athy |
Kildare (Laois) |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/00 |
|
17557U |
St. Abbans NS |
Killeen |
Mageney |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/11/07 |
|
17557U |
St. Abbans NS |
Kileen |
Mageney |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
2 |
01/09/08 |
|
17604D |
Ratheniska NS |
Ratheniska |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/06 |
|
17604D |
Ratheniska NS |
Ratheniska |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/02/07 |
|
17604D |
Ratheniska NS |
Ratheniska |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/07 |
|
17617M |
Scoil Chomhghain Naofa |
Killeshin |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/11/04 |
|
|
17692D |
Stradbally BNS |
Stradbally |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
17/09/07 |
|
|
18150S |
Scoil an Fraoich Mhoir |
The Heath |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/06 |
|
18150S |
Scoil an Fraoich Mhoir |
The Heath |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/06 |
|
18150S |
Scoil an Fraoich Mhoir |
The Heath |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/07 |
|
18547W |
Faolan Naofa NS |
Baile Ui Ruain |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/06 |
|
18828H |
St. Pauls Primary |
Borris Road |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/07 |
|
18828H |
St. Pauls Primary |
Borris Road |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/07 |
|
18828H |
St. Pauls Primary |
Borris Road |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/07 |
|
18828H |
St. Pauls Primary |
Borris Road |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/07 |
|
18828H |
St. Pauls Primary |
Borris Road |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
2 |
01/09/06 |
|
18828H |
St. Pauls Primary |
Borris Road |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/09/07 |
|
19747M |
Scoil Bhride NS |
Knockmay |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
11/12/06 |
|
19747M |
Scoil Bhride NS |
Knockmay |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
19/02/08 |
|
19747M |
Scoil Bhride NS |
Knockmay |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
19/02/08 |
|
19747M |
Scoil Bhride NS |
Knockmay |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
19/02/08 |
|
19747M |
Scoil Bhride NS |
Knockmay |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
2 |
19/02/08 |
|
19747M |
Scoil Bhride NS |
Knockmay |
Portlaoise |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
2 |
28/08/08 |
|
20071L |
Scoil Bhride NS |
Rathdowney |
Rathdowney |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/02/09 |
|
20224K |
Gaelscoil an tSli Dala |
An Bealach Mór |
Buirios Mor Osrai |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/07/05 |
|
20224K |
Gaelscoil an tSli Dala |
An Bealach Mór |
Buirios Mor Osrai |
Laois |
Pre-fab |
1 |
01/02/07 |
|
County |
Roll No |
School |
Address |
Classrooms |
Approved |
|
Laois |
07183W |
Mountmellick Convent, St. Joseph’s GNS |
Mountmellick |
1 × 80m2 Mainstream Classroom |
2008 |
|
Laois |
16070K |
Scoil Phadraig Naofa BNS |
Davitt Road, Mountmellick |
1 × 80m2 Mainstream Classroom |
2008 |
|
Laois |
17617M |
Killeshin National School |
Killeshin, Carlow |
1 × 80m2 Mainstream Classroom |
2008 |
|
Laois |
18150S |
Scoil an Fhraoich Mhoir |
The Heath, Portlaoise |
1 × 80m2 Mainstream Classroom |
2008 |
|
Laois |
19286C |
Scoil Mhuire |
Portlaoise Parish Centre, St. Peter & Pauls Church, Portlaoise |
4 × 80m2 Mainstream Classrooms |
2008 |
|
Laois |
13741Q |
Rath NS, Ballybrittas |
Portlaoise |
1 × 80m2 Mainstream Classroom |
2009 |
|
Laois |
18150S |
Scoil an Fhraoich Mhoir |
The Heath, Portlaoise |
Re-location of 2 Classroom Pre-fabs |
2009 |
|
Laois |
18828H |
St. Paul’s Primary School |
Postlaoise |
Buy-out of existing 1 × 80m2 Classroom |
2009 |
|
Laois |
19286C |
Scoil Mhuire |
Portlaoise |
2 Storey Unit |
2009 |
|
Laois |
19747M |
Scoil Bhride |
Knockmay, Portlaoise |
2 × 80m2 Mainstream Classrooms |
2009 |
|
Laois |
20100P |
Kolbe Special School |
Postlaoise |
1x 80m2 Mainsteam Classroom |
2009 |
|
Laois |
20224K |
Gaelscoil an tSli |
Borris on Ossory |
12x8 Prefab |
2010 |