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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 May 2010

Vol. 710 No. 1

Written Answers

The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 5, inclusive, answered orally.
Questions Nos. 6 to 31, inclusive, resubmitted.
Questions Nos. 32 to 39, inclusive, answered orally.

Money Advice and Budgeting Service

Catherine Byrne

Question:

40 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of clients dealt with by the Money Advice and Budgeting Service for each of the past five years; the number of new clients to date in 2010; the average waiting time to access MABS services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21630/10]

Shane McEntee

Question:

44 Deputy Shane McEntee asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will provide an update on the waiting times to access Money Advice and Budgeting Service money advisers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21673/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 40 and 44 together.

The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) assists people who are over-indebted and need help and advice in coping with debt problems. The role of money advisors is to help clients to assess their financial situation, make a budget plan and deal with creditors. MABS is now dealing with increasingly complex debt situations in respect of clients who are presenting with multiple creditors/debts.

In 2005, MABS dealt with approximately 10,900 new clients. In 2006 the number was similar with 11,000 new clients seen by the service. This figure increased to 12,000 and 16,000 in 2007 and 2008 respectively. The number increased further to 19,000 in 2009. In the period January to April 2010 a total of 7,300 new clients have been seen by MABS which would indicate that the number of clients is broadly in line with the figures for 2009. In addition the MABS helpline has dealt some 47,500 calls since its launch in October 2007. Some 10,000 calls have been dealt with to date this year, compared with 24,000 callers in 2009.

From first point of contact to first appointment with a money advisor the average waiting time is currently just over 4 weeks. This is the average nationally and there are fluctuations between offices. During the waiting period, clients are assessed and those in need of immediate assistance are given a priority appointment, others are provided with assisted self-help to ensure that they have taken steps to assess their situation and if appropriate they are supported to take holding action with their creditors. I am satisfied that the additional resources provided to MABS will assist them to meet the demand for their services.

Social Insurance

Joe Carey

Question:

41 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Social Protection the balance of the social insurance fund for each of the past ten years; the projected balance for the next three years; the expected deficit for 2010; the details on the way this deficit will be met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21634/10]

The Social Insurance Fund comprises a current account and an investment account. To the extent that annual income is not required for benefit payments, this finance, together with the accumulated surplus from previous years is transferred to the investment account. Annual surpluses were a feature of the fund between 1996 and 2007. The highest annual surplus was realised in 2006. The accumulated surplus was €420m in 1999, it peaked in 2007 when the balance in the fund reached €3,632 million and subsequently fell to €934m by the end of 2009.

In 2010 the Fund will exhaust the cash balance held in the investment account. The operating deficit of the Fund at the end of 2010 is estimated to be €1.55 billion. This deficit will be borne by the Exchequer by means of a subvention from the Oireachtas — Vote 38. The authorisation of the House was given on 29th April to permit funding to be drawn down for use in the Social Insurance Fund. It is forecast that the Social Insurance Fund expenditure will exceed its income in each of the years 2011 to 2013, with the deficit continuing to be borne by means of a subvention from the Exchequer.

The Social Insurance Fund will continue to hold a capital asset over this period represented in the form of Department's headquarters property in Store Street, Dublin. A table outlining the income, expenditure, annual surplus or deficit and balances over the ten year period will be made available to the Deputies.

Balance in Social Insurance Fund 1999-2009

Year

Receipts

Payments

Annual Surplus

Accumulated Surplus

€ m

€ m

€ m

€ m

1999

3,159

2,818

341

420

2000

3,726

3,291

435

855

2001

4,307

3,676

631

1,486

2002

4,798

4,376

422

1,273

2003

5,089

4,833

256

1,529

2004

5,560

5,273

377

1,906

2005

6,159

5,665

494

2,400

2006

6,975

6,326

649

3,049

2007

7,834

7,251

583

3,632

2008

8,144

8,399

(255)

3,377

2009*

7,304

9,747

(2,443)

934

*The accounts for financial year 2009 are currently being prepared so the above figures are provisional.

Projected Balance in Social Insurance Fund 2011-2013

Year

Accumulated surplus

2011

NIL

2012

NIL

2013

NIL

Social Welfare Benefits

Bernard Allen

Question:

42 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of one-parent family payments suspended due to an error in the system whereby the annual review and declaration form was not issued to claimants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21618/10]

All recipients of the one-parent family payment are asked to complete, an annual review form (OFP 40) to certify that they continue to fulfil the conditions for payment. The form is generated automatically and the customer is allowed two weeks to return it to the Department. If the form is not returned or not returned in time, the payment is automatically suspended by the computer system. On 13 May local offices of the Department began to receive enquiries from some OFP customers who stated that their payment was not in the post office when they called to collect it.

Following an investigation in the computer operations area of the Department it transpired that due to an oversight, a batch of approximately 400 OFP 40 forms had not been processed and the usual controls for monitoring this work had failed on this occasion. When the Regional Director's Office of the Department was alerted to the problem, they instructed local offices to reinstate payment to any customer who enquired about the non payment.

At this stage payment has been restored to the majority of customers affected. However, in approximately 30 cases where payment was stopped, we have received no contact from the customer about their payment. I have arranged for the Department to contact these customers to establish whether they continue to fulfil the conditions for entitlement to the one parent family payment and in such cases to make appropriate arrangements to restore payment without further delay. I very much regret the inconvenience caused to customers by the failure to issue the forms and I can assure the Deputy that the Department is reviewing its procedures for issuing such forms.

Social Welfare Appeals

Brian O'Shea

Question:

43 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Social Protection the action he is taking to reduce the waiting period for social welfare appeals. [21591/10]

Paul Kehoe

Question:

69 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Social Protection the average time it took to process social welfare appeals in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21667/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 43 and 69 together.

I am informed by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that there were 26,000 appeals received in 2009 and it is estimated the number in 2010 could reach 30,000 compared to the average number received over the previous 4 years of 15,000. This represents a near 50% increase in the number of appeals received. At the end of 2009 there were 16,000 appeals on hands and that figure has now risen to 19,000 whereas in previous years that number would have been in the region of 5,000 to 6,000. I understand that during 2009 the average time taken to process all appeals (i.e. those decided summarily and by way of oral hearing) was 24 weeks. However, if allowance was made for the 25% most protracted cases, the average time fell to 15.8 weeks. This represents an increase of 2 weeks in the time taken to process appeals when compared to 2008.

While the growing number of appeals is clearly impacting on processing times it must also be remembered that the processing time for appeals covers all phases of the appeal process including the submission by the Department of its comments on the grounds for the appeal, further examination by the Department's Medical Assessors in certain illness related cases, further investigation by Social Welfare Inspectors where required and circumstances may also arise where further information is sought from the appellant. Delays can also occur where the appellant submits new information or evidence, often at an advanced stage in the proceedings. In some cases adjournments may be sought by the appellants or their representatives.

A number of initiatives are currently underway designed to enhance the capacity of the office to deal with the current caseload and inflows. In that regard,

2 additional Appeals Officers were assigned to the Office in 2009,

A number of additional staff are being assigned to administration area of the Office,

The organisation of the Appeals Officer's work has been changed so as to increase productivity,

A project to improve the business processes in the office is underway and a number of improvements have already been implemented,

Significant enhancements are being made to the Office's IT and phone systems.

Notwithstanding these measures, it is clear that further additional staff will be required in the short term to address the backlog that has developed. Any such staff must be very experienced and be in a position to operate without significant training. Therefore it has been decided to use experienced retired staff strictly on a short term basis to supplement the current resources to clear the backlog of appeals.

Question No. 44 answered with Question No. 40.

Departmental Staff

Michael Creed

Question:

45 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of job facilitators; the average waiting times to access a job facilitator; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21642/10]

Facilitators work closely with FÁS and other agencies, at national and local level, to identify appropriate training and developmental programmes for social welfare recipients of working age to enhance the skills those individuals have and, ultimately, improve their employment chances as well as helping them to develop personally. The facilitator service is available to social welfare recipients at all local offices where facilitators hold open clinics and meet with people who have been referred either by the social welfare local office or by other agencies. Arrangements to see the facilitator can be made by contacting the social welfare local office or the facilitator directly. In addition, cases are selected and referred to facilitators by Employment Support section.

There are currently 62.5 facilitators in place (a full time equivalent of 61 posts). It is proposed to increase this to 70 posts. However further appointments are subject to the current moratorium on recruitment and promotions and will be filled by redeployment of staff within the Department and from across the Civil Service. In the current economic climate the demand for the facilitator service is elevated. Facilitators generally have scheduled days when they are available in different locations across our network of offices and people wishing to meet with a Facilitator would be advised to call on one of those days — a centralised appointment system is not maintained. Accordingly waiting times for individual facilitators are not maintained. Facilitators make every effort to contact all interested customers as quickly as possible.

Question No. 46 answered with Question No. 38.

Public Service Cards

Olwyn Enright

Question:

47 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social Protection the details of the public service card with photo ID to be rolled out from 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21653/10]

The Department has developed, in conjunction with a number of other Government Departments, the specifications for a Public Service Card (PSC) under the Standard Authentication Framework Environment, or SAFE, programme. The specification provides for identification features, including a photograph. The aim is to develop a card that acts as a key for access to public services in general, identifying and authenticating individuals as appropriate and where required. Legislative provisions in relation to the introduction of the Public Service Card have been included in Section 263 of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 (as amended by Section 32 of the Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2007).

These specify that the Minister may issue a Public Service Card in the format that he or she deems fit with the person's name, personal public service number, photograph, signature, card issue number and card expiry date to be inscribed on the card. Provision is also included for the person's name, personal public service number, date of birth, sex, all former surnames (if any) of the person's mother, photograph, signature and card expiry date to be electronically encoded on the card. In addition, provision is made for any other information that may be prescribed to be either inscribed or electronically encoded on the card.

Over the past few years significant progress has been made on the implementation of the project including the selection of a preferred bidder to provide a managed service for card production and related bureau services. Technical specifications were finalised and the necessary organisational change was designed. However, in view of the prevailing economic climate the project was suspended until formal sanction to proceed was received from the Department of Finance at the end of last year. A contract was agreed with the managed service provider from early January.

The remaining elements of the production project are expected to take several months to complete. Significant preparatory work has to be undertaken including decisions regarding the final design of the card and to develop a secure site for the personalisation of the cards. It will also be necessary to develop a technical infrastructure within the Department to support the management and administration of the cards. Procurement for this development has commenced. The overall time for completion of initial deployment of a Public Services Card is dependent on the rate at which it will be possible to register all of those to whom it will be issued.

Features such as photographs and signatures and electronic card authentication are expected to minimise the rate of fraud and error arising from incorrectly identified and authenticated individuals. The Public Service Card will replace cards currently in use, such as the Social Services Card and the Free Travel card with highly secure cards. Other Departments and agencies will also be in a position to use the card. A further benefit of the Public Service Card will be the efficiencies that can be achieved by all agencies using the card. The time spent on establishing identity and authentication will be reduced leading to significant potential savings across the whole public sector.

Social Welfare Benefits

Seymour Crawford

Question:

48 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons in receipt of mortgage interest supplement; the cost of same; if he will arrange for the collection of figures on the number of persons who apply for the mortgage interest supplement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21638/10]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

60 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of households in receipt of rent supplement and mortgage interest relief in 2009 and 2010 broken down by quarter. [15937/10]

Enda Kenny

Question:

67 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons claiming rent supplement for more than 18 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21669/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 48, 60 and 67 together.

The purpose of the rent supplement scheme is to provide short-term support to eligible people living in private rented accommodation whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation costs and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source. The overall aim is to provide short-term assistance, and not to act as an alternative to the other social housing schemes operated by the State.

Similarly the purpose of the mortgage interest supplement scheme is to provide short term support to people who have difficulty meeting their mortgage repayments due to changes in their employment circumstances and whose means are now inadequate to meet their basic day to day needs. The aim of the scheme, working within the overall social welfare framework, is to ensure that people do not suffer unnecessary hardship due to loss of employment and that in the short term they can maintain their sole place of residence whilst being unemployed. Mortgage interest supplement only covers the mortgage interest payments in respect of an eligible person's sole place of residence. It is a means tested payment and other qualifying criteria apply.

Information in relation to the number of recipients of rent supplement and mortgage interest supplement is shown in the attached tabular statement. Over 37,800 rent supplement recipients have been in payment for 18 months or more. There are currently over 16,500 people in receipt of mortgage interest supplement with expenditure on this scheme expected to be in the region of €64 million in 2010.

Mortgage interest supplement claim details should be electronically recorded where entitlement to mortgage interest supplement is refused. However, as the practice can vary from community welfare area to area, statistics for the number of people who applied for and were refused mortgage interest supplement without an appeal, are not available. This failure to maintain accurate records should be viewed in the context of the increased demands being placed on community welfare officers in the current economic environment.

Number of Recipients of Rent Supplement and Mortgage Interest Supplement by Quarter 2009 and 2010

Quarter

Rent Supplement Recipients

Mortgage Interest Supplement Recipients

Q1 2009

82,986

10,872

Q2 2009

89,710

13,036

Q3 2009

90,825

14,136

End 2009

93,030

15,101

Q1 2010

95,037

16,129

Question No. 49 answered with Question No. 38.

National Carers Strategy

P. J. Sheehan

Question:

50 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Social Protection his plans for carers following the decision not to publish the national carers strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21695/10]

During 2008, an interdepartmental group, chaired by the Department of the Taoiseach, with secretariat support provided by my Department, undertook work, including a public consultation process, to develop a National Carers' Strategy. However, because of the prevailing economic situation, it was not possible to set targets or time limits which could be achieved. In that context, rather than publishing a document which did not include any significant plans for the future, the Government decided not to publish a strategy. This position remains unchanged.

The Government is acutely aware and appreciative of the contribution made by carers. It was for that reason, that when resources were available, we invested heavily in improving social welfare rates and services for carers. Over the past decade, carer payment rates have greatly increased, qualifying conditions for carer's allowance have significantly eased, coverage of the scheme has been extended and new schemes such as carer's benefit, half-rate carer's allowance and the respite care grant have been introduced and extended. People caring for more than one person receive a higher rate of payment, equating to an additional 50% of the maximum personal rate. Recipients with children also receive a qualified child increase in respect of each child.

Following this year's Budget, the carer's allowance rate for carers over 66 years of age has not changed and remains at €239. The rate of carer's allowance for someone under 66 is €212. Since the introduction of the carer's allowance in 1990 payments to carers have been increased and expanded. Carer's allowance was increased in 2007, 2008 and 2009 by 12.1%, 6.5% and 3.3%, respectively. As a result, even with the reduction announced in the last Budget for carers under 66, the weekly rate of payment for the carer's allowance is still almost 20% higher this year than in 2006 and more than 147% higher than in 1997.

The means test for carer's allowance has been significantly eased over the years, and is now one of the most generous means tests in the social welfare system, most notably with regard to spouse's earnings. Since April 2008, the income disregard has been €332.50 per week for a single person and €665 per week for a couple. This means that a couple with two children can earn in the region of €37,200 and qualify for the maximum rate of carer's allowance as well as the associated free travel and household benefits. A couple with an income in the region of €60,400 can still qualify for a minimum payment, as well as the associated free travel, household benefits package. These levels surpass the ‘Towards 2016' commitment to ensure those on average industrial earnings continue to qualify for a full carer's allowance.

From June 2005, the annual respite care grant was extended to all carers who are providing full time care to a person who needs such care, regardless of their income. The rate of the respite care grant has also been increased to €1,700 per year in respect of each care recipient since June 2008. The Government will continue to support carers within the resources available.

Pension Provisions

Arthur Morgan

Question:

51 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will give a commitment not to cut the State pension. [21613/10]

Social welfare expenditure for 2011, including expenditure on State pensions, will be considered in the context of next year's Budget preparations, having regard both to needs and to the resources available to meet those needs. As stated, in identifying possible savings I will seek to protect the vulnerable irrespective of age.

Employment Support Services

Michael D'Arcy

Question:

52 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Social Protection the additional support that has been given to job facilitators to deal with the increased demand for access to support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21646/10]

The Department's facilitators work with social welfare recipients of working age, including people in receipt of jobseekers payments, people parenting alone, people in receipt of disability welfare payments and people providing care, to promote participation and social inclusion. Facilitators help people to identify appropriate training or development programmes which will enhance the skills that the individual has and ultimately improve their employment chances, as well as help them to continue to develop personally. Facilitators develop individual progression plans with the customer. They are located throughout the country and are assigned to cover defined geographical areas. They work closely with FÁS and other agencies at a local level to identify and target appropriate education, training and development opportunities.

In the current economic climate the demand for the facilitator service is elevated. Facilitators make every effort to contact customers as quickly as possible. The facilitator service was enhanced under the National Development Plan (NDP) Social and Economic Participation Programme. Twenty four additional facilitators have been appointed since September, 2008. There are 62.5 currently serving (full time equivalent 61 posts). It is intended to increase the number to 70 posts. Clerical support for facilitators is provided centrally by Employment Support Services section. The number of facilitators in place, their workload, and the effectiveness of the service will continue to be monitored.

Social Welfare Fraud

Róisín Shortall

Question:

53 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection the datasets of other public sector bodies available to his Department for the purpose of anti-fraud data-matching exercises; and the datasets he is currently seeking access to but has not yet secured. [21604/10]

Charles Flanagan

Question:

72 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Social Protection if he is satisfied with the method of recording and calculating fraud control savings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21657/10]

Tom Hayes

Question:

77 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Social Protection the fraud savings target for 2010; if he will provide an update on fraud control measures put in place by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21663/10]

Denis Naughten

Question:

80 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Social Protection if he is on target to achieve fraud savings as outlined at budget time; the steps he is taking to reduce the cost of rent allowance payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21745/10]

Denis Naughten

Question:

81 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Social Protection if he is on target to achieve fraud savings as outlined at budget 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21698/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 53, 72, 77, 80 and 81 together.

The prevention of fraud and abuse of the social welfare system is an integral part of the day-to-day work of the Department. A key objective of the Department's control strategy is to ensure that the right person is paid the right amount of money at the right time. A four-pronged control strategy has been adopted by the Department, namely prevention of fraud and error at the initial claim stage, early detection through effective review of claims in payment, measures to deter fraud, and the pursuit and recovery of overpayments.

In relation to accessing information for fraud and error detection, the Department is involved in a number of data matching initiatives which are effective in identifying high risk claims for review and ensuring that review activity is targeted in the most effective manner. Data exchange is provided for by legislation and is an example of good cross-departmental co-operation. Every month commencement of employment data from the Revenue Commissioners are matched against the Department's schemes and investigations are conducted where warranted. All matches identified are examined to determine whether there has been wilful concealment of information by the customer. Where there has been concurrent working and claiming for 12 weeks or more or where the overpayment exceeds €2,000 such cases will be considered for prosecution.

In addition the following organisations provide information to the Department for the purpose of the data matching:

The Irish Prison Service provides lists of prison inmates on a quarterly basis.

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal provides data on compensation payments made.

The Courts Service has provided on-line access for information on the probate index of issued grants.

Third level institutions supply details of students registered for full-time daytime education.

Access to the General Register's Office regarding births, deaths and marriages is proving very effective for control purposes.

The Private Security Authority provided information on security licence holders.

Data have also been received from the Department of Agriculture & Food on total grant payments issued to farmers.

The Commission for Taxi Regulation has supplied data on active taxi/ hackney licence holders.

The Private Rental Tenancies Board provides information on registered landlords.

The Department continues to explore the value of possible new data matches. However reporting on these at this stage could prejudice the value of these sources.

Control savings are calculated by applying validated multipliers to the difference in the rate of payment before and after the control activity. Multipliers used in assessing control savings estimate the potential future savings to the Department of a revocation or reduction resulting from a control action. The multiplier used is based on an estimated duration that a person would have remained on benefit in the absence of the control activity, and this varies by scheme. The Department's Control Division carries out validation exercises to ensure control savings are recorded correctly in accordance with the guidelines. The methodology is kept under review. I understand that a review to be carried out in consultation with C&AG will commence shortly.

I am satisfied that control savings provide valid, useful and comparable measures of progress towards achieving results. The rapidly changing economic environment with large increases in the levels of unemployed poses challenges for the prevention and effective management of fraud and control. The Department's response to these challenges has been to introduce new measures, which are evidence based, to target control activity at high risk categories of claimants. A target of €533.3 million was set for control savings in 2010. The current work to rule measures in the Department have impacted on the reporting of the value of control activities so it is not possible to say if control savings are on target. However, I am hopeful that the target will be met.

Regarding rent supplements a review of maximum rent supplement levels is expected to be completed shortly. This review, in conjunction with the decline in rental market rates generally, will ensure that the new rent limits reflect realistic market conditions throughout the country, and that they will continue to enable the different categories of eligible tenant households to secure and retain suitable rented accommodation to meet their respective needs.

Social Welfare Code

Mary Upton

Question:

54 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Social Protection his plans to assist households that are experiencing higher fuel costs as a result of the introduction of the carbon levy. [21609/10]

Damien English

Question:

76 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Social Protection the action he will take to alleviate the impact of the carbon tax on lower income households that are more likely to rely on higher carbon fuels and to live in badly insulated homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21651/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 54 and 76 together.

The Department of Social Protection already assists low income households with heating costs through their basic payments, through the fuel allowance scheme and through the household benefits package of electricity and gas allowances. These schemes have been improved significantly in recent years. The fuel allowance is paid for 32 weeks each year from end September to end April. In the 2009/2010 heating season over 340,000 recipients benefited from the allowance at a cost of over €231million.

Some 376,000 pensioners are receiving the household benefits which provides 2,400 electricity units per annum (or the gas equivalent) over the year and it is estimated that some 140,000 of these households are receiving both fuel allowance and the electricity units /gas allowance under the household benefits to assist with the heating and other energy requirements. The household benefit package cost €184million in 2009.

Proper household insulation is absolutely vital in tacking fuel poverty. Initiatives such as the Warmer Homes Scheme, operated by Sustainable Energy Ireland, under the aegis of the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources have a very valuable role to play in that regard, as does funding from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to improve the quality of existing local authority housing and the Housing Adaptation Grants for older people and people with disabilities. Considerable progress has been made in this area in recent years. In his Carbon Budget Statement, the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government, outlined details of €130 million in funding for insulation, €76 million of which will be used to assist low income families.

The Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources has overarching responsibility for the energy portfolio and has convened an Inter-Departmental/Agency Group on Affordable Energy to coordinate and drive Government policy in this area. The Inter Departmental/Agency Group has been asked to draw up an Energy Affordability Strategy. This strategy will set out existing and future approaches to addressing energy affordability and will have regard both to the impact of the carbon tax on low income households and the range of supports outlined above in making its recommendations. As part of its work, the Group will make recommendations as to the precise package of measures, including in the area of income support, that should be put in place to assist those at risk of fuel poverty.

Ulick Burke

Question:

55 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Social Protection if he has conducted a review of the one-parent family payment; the details of the recommendations of this review; if he will publish this review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21626/10]

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

58 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Social Protection his plans to reform the one-parent family payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21648/10]

Emmet Stagg

Question:

73 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Social Protection his plans in relation to the cohabitation rule for lone parents; and his further plans to introduce a parental allowance. [21605/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 55, 58 and 73 together.

The Government discussion paper, "Proposals for Supporting Lone Parents", was published in 2006 and can be viewed at:

http://www.welfare.ie/EN/Policy/PolicyPublications/Families/Documents/prop_lp.pdf. It put forward proposals for the expanded availability and range of education and training opportunities for lone parents, the extension of the National Employment Action Plan to focus on lone parents, the focused provision of childcare, improved information services for lone parents and the introduction of a new social assistance payment for low-income families with young children.

The One-Parent Family Payment, by its nature, is not payable where the lone parent is co-habiting with the other parent of the child or with someone else as husband and wife. The discussion paper proposed that the category of lone parenthood would be abolished. Instead, a parental allowance would be made to all parents (living alone or with a partner) with young children on a low income, thus ending the co-habitation rule. It will not be possible for my Department to progress this aspect of the proposal due, in part, to current economic climate. These proposals have, however, informed deliberations regarding the One-Parent Family Payment scheme.

The current duration of the One-Parent Family Payment, which is payable until the youngest child reaches the age of 18 — or 22 if in full-time education — is not in the best interests of the recipient, their children or society. Social welfare supports for lone parents should be designed to:

prevent long-term dependence on welfare and facilitate financial independence;

recognise parental choice with regard to care of young children but with the expectation that parents will not remain outside of the labour force indefinitely, and

include an expectation of participation in education, training and employment, with supports provided in this regard.

To meet these social policy objectives, my Department will be introducing changes to the One-Parent Family Payment in the forthcoming Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, 2010. For new customers, from April 2011, it is proposed that the One-Parent Family Payment will be paid until the youngest child in the family reaches the age of 13 years. For existing recipients of the payment, there will be a phasing-out period to enable them to access education and training and to prepare them for their return to the labour market.

These changes will bring Ireland's support for lone parents more in line with international provisions, where there is a general movement away from long-term and passive income support. The EU countries that are achieving the best outcomes in terms of tackling child poverty are those that are combining strategies aimed at facilitating access to employment and enabling services (e.g. child care) with income support.

Social Insurance

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

56 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason for the delay in finalising the details of the PRSI incentive scheme that was announced in budget 2010. [21581/10]

The Employer Job (PRSI) Incentive Scheme will be commenced in June and will be administered by the Department of Social Protection. Regulation pertaining to the scheme is in the final stages of preparation, as are details of scheme administration. The scheme will run for the calendar year 2010 only. However, any qualifying employment created in 2010 will be eligible for the scheme, which will be structured so that employment created prior to the launch can participate for 12 months forward from the time of launch and employment created later in the year will participate for 12 months to the corresponding date in 2011.

Question No. 57 withdrawn.
Question No. 58 answered with Question No. 55.

Money Advice and Budgeting Service

Dinny McGinley

Question:

59 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for Social Protection if he is satisfied with the capacity of the Money Advice and Budgeting Service to negotiate on people’s behalf with financial institutions and sub-prime lenders regarding mortgage arrears; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21675/10]

The money advisers throughout the country focus on providing assistance, advice and intense support to people who have financial difficulties. The money adviser works out a budget and negotiates on behalf of the client with all creditors, including financial institutions and sub-prime lenders, to secure better terms for the client in managing the repayment of their debts. Where required by the client, the money adviser can assist with setting up a special account with a local Credit Union into which an agreed amount of money is lodged regularly and from which each month the money adviser makes the repayments to the creditors on behalf of the client. In 2009 some 2,618 special accounts were set up with the local Credit Unions.

Focused training programmes designed to equip money advice staff and local management boards to meet the demands on the services are provided by MABS NDL, the national support company. In addition, MABS NDL has introduced a number of community education and other initiatives to assist the services in managing their increased caseloads. These include a money management education programme for people facing redundancy to inform them about managing on a reduced income and how to avoid getting into debt.

Under the statutory code of conduct on mortgage arrears published by the Financial Regulator, all financial institutions including the banks and sub-prime mortgage lenders must, where circumstances warrant it, refer a borrower in difficulty for guidance to a local MABS office or to an appropriate alternative. An operational protocol ‘ Working Together to Manage Debt’ is in place and is the result of almost 2 years work by MABS NDL and the Irish Banking Federation (IBF), the main representative body for the banking and financial services sector. The protocol applies to all client debts, including mortgage debt, owed to the major lending institutions in Ireland and includes a commitment that no legal action will be taken as long as there is compliance by the client with an agreed repayment plan.

Last year an additional 19 money advisers were appointed to MABS companies throughout the country. They have been fully trained in the application of money advice work and the relevant codes and legislation relating to mortgage debt. I am satisfied that MABS provides a high quality personal service to assist people in overcoming their indebtedness and managing their finances. I am confident that the money advisors are trained and equipped to deliver this important service to the members of the public who require it.

Question No. 60 answered with Question No. 48.

Civil Registration Act

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

61 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Social Protection when he expects that the review of the Civil Registration Act 2004 will take place with particular reference to making provision for the registration here of all deaths of persons domiciled in Ireland who died abroad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21554/10]

I appreciate that registration here of the deaths abroad of Irish citizens would be very significant to the relatives of the deceased and it is in this context that I have undertaken to review the existing provisions of the Civil Registration Act, 2004, in relation to this issue. There is a range of issues to be considered in relation to the scope and implementation of any proposed amendment on this matter. Some of these issues have cross-departmental implications and these need to be considered also.

The general review of the provisions of the Civil Registration Act, 2004 is expected to be completed by the end of this year. The review will include the provisions relating to the registration of deaths. As the Deputy is aware, there is a number of steps to be taken before any legislation might come before the Oireachtas and it is not possible to be definite as to timescales at this juncture.

Social Welfare Code

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

62 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Social Protection when he plans to amend the qualifying criteria for mortgage interest supplement. [21583/10]

Noel Coonan

Question:

64 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Social Protection the details of his review of the mortgage interest supplement scheme; the changes that are envisaged under this review; if he will publish the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21636/10]

Joe McHugh

Question:

68 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Social Protection his plans to amend the mortgage interest supplement scheme; if he will make revised guidelines publicly available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21678/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 62, 64 and 68 together.

There are currently just over 16,500 people in receipt of mortgage interest supplement, compared to 8,091 recipients in 2008. Expenditure for the year ending December 2009 was €60.7m; the estimate for 2010 is €63.9m. The mortgage interest supplement scheme is currently under review. The main purpose of this review is to examine how the scheme can best meet its objective of catering for those who require assistance on a short-term basis. The review group includes representatives from my Department, the Community Welfare Service, the Departments of Finance and Environment, Heritage and Local Government, together with a representative from the Office of the Financial Regulator.

As part of the initial review, guidelines on specific and immediate operational issues were drawn up and circulated to the community welfare officers. These guidelines are available on the Department's website at www.welfare.ie The group is examining trends in programme and administrative costs, the impact of the Financial Regulator's statutory Code of Practice on Mortgage Arrears and legislative and operational issues arising, including the cap on hours of employment. The review is also considering whether alternative approaches to achieving the scheme's objectives are warranted in the light of recent changes in the economic climate and the mortgage market.

More recently, the Government has established a broader and more comprehensive review of mortgage arrears and personal debt. The Mortgage Arrears and Personal Debt Review Group under the independent chairmanship of Mr. Hugh Cooney, comprises representatives from my own Department, the Departments of Finance, Taoiseach, Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Justice, Equality and Law Reform, and Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. In addition the Group has representatives from the Office of the Financial Regulator, the ESRI, the Irish Banking Federation, the Free Legal Advice Centre and the Law Reform Commission.

The terms of reference for the Group are based on the Renewed Programme for Government, with an emphasis on protecting the family home. They include a review of the statutory Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears and the recently agreed protocol between the Irish Bankers Federation and the Money Advice and Budgeting Service on debt default, with a view to expanding the options available for dealing with debt situations to avoid foreclosure. In addition, the Group is examining measures adopted in other jurisdictions and considering ways of expanding existing mortgage-support measures. I understand that the Group will make its report to the Minister for Finance by the end of June. The conclusions and recommendations from the review of the mortgage interest supplement scheme, which is currently being finalised, will inform the work of this group.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

63 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will give a commitment that he will not curtail eligibility for the lone parent payment in any way before a significant increase in the availability of education and training placements, child care provision and ultimately real job opportunities are brought into being and verified to exist in sufficient quantity. [21614/10]

The Government is conscious that many lone parents will need access to education, training and enabling services such as childcare provision in order to acquire the skills they will need to gain employment. As outlined in my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 400 of 18 May, 2010, there are a wide range of education and training opportunities available through my Department, the Department of Education and Science and FÁS for lone parents to strengthen their qualifications and skills base and thus maximise their chances of meeting the requirements of the modern labour market and gaining employment.

Good progress has been made in relation to the provision of childcare. Government invested some €1 billion throughout the last decade, Early Childhood Care and Education year for pre-school children was recently introduced and the revised Community Childcare Subvention Scheme will be introduced in September, 2010, with a supplementary focus on labour activation. Accordingly, I will be progressing with the proposed changes to the One-Parent Family Payment in the forthcoming Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, 2010.

Question No. 64 answered with Question No. 62.

Pension Provisions

Richard Bruton

Question:

65 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Social Protection the details of the implementation of the national pensions framework; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21625/10]

The recently published National Pensions Framework is the Government's plan for pension reform. It encompasses all aspects of pensions, including social welfare pensions, private occupational pensions and public sector pension reform. Development of the framework was informed by the range of views raised during the comprehensive consultation process which followed publication of the Green Paper on Pensions. The aim of the framework is to deliver security, equity, choice and clarity for the individual, the employer and the State. It also aims to increase pension coverage, particularly among low to middle income groups and to ensure that State support for pensions is equitable and sustainable.

A technical implementation group has been established to develop the legislative, regulatory and administrative infrastructure required to put the reforms into operation. In line with the Government decision, the group which is chaired by the Department of Social Protection, held its first meeting in early May. The implementation phase is expected to take three to five years. The implementation group is cognisant of the current and emerging economic condition and will conduct extensive consultation on the many aspects of the framework before presenting final options to Government for decision. The group will develop a communications strategy to ensure that all stakeholders and interested parties are kept informed of the progress being made in implementing the framework.

James Bannon

Question:

66 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Social Protection his views on whether persons face the prospect of spending up to three years in retirement without the State pension in view of the national pensions framework announced by him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21620/10]

Brian O'Shea

Question:

295 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Social Protection the proposals he has to abolish the State transitional pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21405/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 66 and 295 together.

The challenges facing the Irish pension system are significant. In particular, the task of financing increasing pension spending will fall to a diminishing share of the population. There are currently six workers for every pensioner and this ratio is expected to decrease to less than two to one by 2050. Increasing State pension age is one of the ways in which we can sustain the pensions system and also maintain the value of the State pension at 35% of average earnings. People are living longer and healthier lives with average life expectancy set to rise even further in the future, up to 89 years for women and 83 for men. People will still, therefore, be spending at least the same amount of time in retirement as they are today, even with a later State pension age.

Therefore, as announced as part of the National Pensions Framework, the State pension age will be increased gradually to 68 years. This will begin in 2014 with the removal of the State pension (transition), thereby standardising State pension age at 66. This means that the last group of people to receive the State pension (transition) will be those who reach 65 years of age in 2013. State pension age will be increased to 67 years in 2021 and to 68 in 2028. The details and timeframes for these changes are set out in the National Pensions Framework, which was published on 3 March 2010. An implementation group chaired by my Department has been established to develop the legislative, regulatory and administrative infrastructure required to put the necessary reforms into operation.

In addition to the changes being made to State pensions, both employees and employers must be encouraged to change their attitudes to working longer. At the workplace level, employers must seek to retain older employees and create working conditions which will make working longer both attractive and feasible for the older worker. Where this is not possible and people leave paid employment before State pension age, they will be entitled to apply for another social welfare payment until they become eligible for a State pension, as is the current situation.

Question No. 67 answered with Question No. 48.
Question No. 68 answered with Question No. 62.
Question No. 69 answered with Question No. 43.

Social Welfare Benefits

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

70 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Social Protection the average waiting time for the processing of applications across each social welfare payment; the way this compares with 2010 targets; and the action he is taking to reduce waiting times. [21607/10]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

85 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the length of time required to process an application for jobseeker’s allowance, back to education allowance, disability allowance, disability benefit, child benefit, contributory old age pension, non-contributory old age pension, invalidity, disablement, household package, rent or mortgage support or other social welfare payments; the number of such applications on appeal; the length of time taken to process appeals; the reason for the delays; if his attention has been drawn to the hardship caused by such delays in the current economic climate; if he has taken or intends to take any action to address these issues and reduce to a specific time within which all applications must be processed in line with current needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21706/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 70 and 85 together.

I have made available to the House two tables showing details of performance targets and average processing times for all schemes. Table 1 sets out the target performance standard and the performance achieved for each scheme in the month of April 2010 and the average number of weeks taken to process each claim type. Details of cases currently on appeal and average appeals processing times are detailed in Table 2. Table 2 sets out the number of appeal cases pending in each of the schemes at end April 2010 and the average number of weeks taken to process appeals in each scheme in 2009. In relation to the cases under appeal it should be noted that the back to education scheme and the household benefits schemes are non statutory and therefore are not appealable.

The Department is committed to delivering the best possible service to its customers. To this end, operational processes and procedures and the organisation of work are reviewed in all areas of the Department. These reviews are supported by modern technology, the potential of which is continuously harnessed. Claims are processed in the most efficient and expeditious way possible, having regard to the eligibility conditions that apply to each scheme. Processing times vary across schemes because of both the volume of applications and the differing qualification criteria. For example, means assessments are required for all of the social assistance schemes; medical examinations are required for some of the illness related schemes and customers must also satisfy the habitual residence conditions. In the case of the insurance-based schemes, it may be necessary to ascertain details of foreign insurance records. It should also be noted that many factors outside the Department's control can impact upon claim processing times e.g. the supply of relevant information by the customer, employers, other EU countries or other third parties.

While every effort is made to decide on entitlement for any individual person as close to their eligibility date as possible, there are cases where delays will necessarily be experienced. In situations where customers find themselves suffering financial hardship while awaiting such a decision, the facility to receive supplementary welfare allowance funded by the Department and administered by the Health Service Executive is available. In April 2010 more than 96% of basic SWA applications were decided on and paid within a week.

Table 1: DSFA New Claims Processing Targets 2010 and Performance April 2010

Activity

Performance Standard

Performance Achieved in April 2010

Average Processing times in Weeks

State Pension (Contributory) — Domestic and EU

90% by Date of Entitlement

89%

6

State Pension (Transitional) — Domestic and EU

90% in 6 Wks

78%

4

Widow(er)’s Contributory Pension

90% in 6 Wks

77%

3

State Pension (Non-Contributory)

90% in 10 Wks

66%

9

Widow(er)’s (Non-Contributory) Pension & One Parent Family Payment (Widow)

90% in 10 Wks

74%

10

One-Parent Family — (Local Office based)

90% in 10 Wks

43%

16

Household Benefits

90% in 4 Wks

70%

3

Bereavement Grant (Social Welfare Services Office Sligo)

90% in 4 Wks

91%

1

Bereavement Grant (Social Welfare Services Office Longford)

90% in 4 Wks

10%

6

Invalidity Pension Domestic and EU

90% in 6 Wks

13%

12

Family Income Supplement — New Claims

90% in 6 Wks

20%

10

Disability Allowance

90% in 12 Wks

60%

12

Carer’s Allowance

90% in 12 Wks

84%

8

Jobseeker’s Benefit

90% in 3 Wks

79%

2

Jobseeker’s Allowance

90% in 6 Wks

68%

7

Illness Benefit

90% in 1 Wks

47%

1

Occupational Injury Benefit — Interim Illness Benefit

90% in 1 Wk

70%

1

Maternity Benefit

90% by Due Date

97%

N/A

Carers Benefit

80% in 2 Wks

Not available

9

Child Benefit Domestic

90% in 2 Wks

Not available

2

EU

N/A

26

Domiciliary Care

90% in 7 Wks

87%

7

Back to Education

Applicants for back to education are already in receipt of another social welfare payment before a decision is made on their entitlement to back to education consequently delays, if any, should not cause hardship. Statistics are not maintained centrally as to the processing times of claims.

Treatment Benefit

Treatment Benefit operates differently than other schemes. As payment is made to contractors after treatment has been given, there is no delay for the customer. The scheme is on target.

Disablement Benefit

As this scheme is not a primary income support scheme there is no performance standard. Many of the claimants are already in receipt of a payment.

Table 2: Appeals Pending Decision by Scheme Type at 30/4/2010

& Average Time Taken To Process Appeals in 2009

Appeals Pending At 30/4/2010

Average Time Taken to Process appeals (2009) (Weeks)

Adoptive Benefit

1

66.3

Blind Pension

10

27.9

Carers Allowance

1,490

26.6

Carers Benefit

94

19.9

Child Benefit

1,507

36.1

Domiciliary Care Allowance

935

15.6

Disability Allowance

3,499

26.2

Illness Benefit

3,086

27.3

Deserted Wives Benefit

3

32.1

Farm Assist

141

24.7

Bereavement Grant

26

14.8

Family Income Supplement

85

20.0

Invalidity Pension

690

30.2

Liable Relatives

13

25.6

One Parent Family Payment

647

24.4

Maternity Benefit

14

10.5

State Pension (Contributory)

78

32.3

State Pension (Non-Contributory)

216

27.6

State Pension (Transition)

8

36.7

Occupational Injury Benefit

21

33.1

Occupational Injury Benefit (Medical)

46

35.3

Disablement Pension

207

34.8

Death Benefit Pension

1

45.3

Incapacity Supplement

9

37.0

Guardian’s Payment (Contributory)

17

23.3

Guardian’s Payment (Non-Contributory)

10

16.5

Pre-Retirement Allowance

0

19.1

Jobseeker’s Allowance (Means)

2,450

22.7

Jobseeker’s Allowance

3,072

18.8

Jobseeker’s Benefit

692

18.2

JA/JB Fraud Control

4

53.1

Respite Care Grant

148

24.7

Insurability of Employment

98

37.8

Supplementary Welfare Allowance

251

9.5

Treatment Benefits

8

12.9

Survivor’s Pension (Contributory)

14

26.4

Survivor’s Pension (Non-Contributory)

11

21.6

Widowed Parent Grant

1

20.0

Social Welfare Code

Jack Wall

Question:

71 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will provide details of the changes he plans to make to the maximum rate of rent supplement. [21612/10]

The purpose of the rent supplement scheme is to provide short-term support to eligible people living in private rented accommodation whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation costs and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source. The schemes primary purpose is to provide short term assistance, and not to act as an alternative to the other social housing schemes operated by the Exchequer. There are currently almost 95,500 tenants benefiting from a rent supplement payment — an increase of over 58 per cent since the end of 2005. The total cost of the rent supplement scheme for 2009 was €511m.

Rent supplements are subject to a limit on the amount of rent that an applicant for rent supplement may incur. Rent limits are set at levels that enable different types of eligible households to secure and retain basic suitable rented accommodation, having regard to different rental market conditions that prevail in various parts of the State. The objective is to ensure that rent supplement is not paid in respect of overly expensive accommodation having regard to the size of the household and market conditions. Furthermore, it is essential that State support for tenants does not give rise to inflated rental prices and overcharging by landlords.

Setting or retaining maximum rent limits at a higher level than are justified by the open market can have a distorting effect on the rental market, leading to a more general rise in rent levels. This in turn may worsen the affordability of rental accommodation unnecessarily, with particular negative impact for those tenants on lower incomes who are trying to support themselves without State aid. A review of maximum rent supplement levels is in progress and is expected to be completed shortly. This process will ensure that the new rent limits reflect current market conditions throughout the country, and that they will continue to enable the different categories of eligible tenant households to secure and retain suitable rented accommodation to meet their respective needs.

Question No. 72 answered with Question No. 53.
Question No. 73 answered with Question No. 55.

Pension Provisions

Martin Ferris

Question:

74 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will take steps to amend section 7 of the Protection of Employees (Employer Insolvency) Act 1984 to ensure that in situations of insolvency involving pension deficits employees will receive at least 50% of their pension entitlements to rectify the current situations in which employees can be left with less than that. [21615/10]

The Protection of Employees (Employer Insolvency) Act 1984 comes under the auspices of the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation. I understand that Section 7 of this Act provides for the payment, by that Minister, out of the Redundancy and Employers' Insolvency Fund, of the amount of unpaid pension contributions which should have been paid by the relevant employer in respect of a period of not more than 12 months preceding the date of insolvency. Although any questions on this legislation should be tabled to the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, I can confirm that the Government has no plans to amend this section of the Act.

As the Deputy knows, some 90% of defined benefit schemes were underfunded at the end of 2008. The vast majority of these continue to work with the Pensions Board to prepare funding proposals aimed at recovering their financial position. Figures for 2009 which indicated an average positive return of 20% for pension schemes suggest that these funding proposals can succeed. Indeed, according to a survey of DB schemes undertaken by the Pensions Board at the end of 2009, the number of schemes failing the funding standard has decreased to 75%. Clearly a lot more needs to be done. However the approach taken by the Board to work with schemes is already showing positive results.

Where schemes are forced to wind-up on the insolvency of their employer, the Government has introduced the Pensions Insolvency Payments scheme (PIPS) which is being administered by the Department of Finance. PIPS provides that qualifying schemes may purchase pension payments from the State at a lower rate than would be available on the open market. In this way, it ensures that more resources from the scheme are available to offset the pension liabilities of active and deferred scheme members.

Question No. 75 answered with Question No. 38.
Question No. 76 answered with Question No. 54.
Question No. 77 answered with Question No. 53.

Social Welfare Benefits

Mary Upton

Question:

78 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Social Protection the savings that would result from changing social welfare legislation to provide for the reimbursement to his Department by insurance companies of social welfare payments deducted from awards of special damages in respect of loss of earnings. [21610/10]

Social welfare legislation does not currently provide for the reimbursement to the Department by insurance companies of social welfare payments deducted from awards of special damages in respect of loss of earnings. As data on the numbers of clients who hold private insurance or whose loss of income was covered through an insurance claim is not routinely collected by the Department, it is not possible to produce robust estimates of how much money might be reimbursed, and what savings would consequently arise, if the legislation in this area were to be amended.

Departmental Agencies

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

79 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Social Protection the support, financial or otherwise, his Department provides to the Citizen Information Services; his plans to increase this support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21702/10]

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

82 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Social Protection the support, financial or otherwise, his Department provides to the Money Advice and Budgeting Service; his plans to increase this support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21701/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 79 and 82 together.

The Citizens Information Board (CIB) is responsible for supporting the provision of information, advice, and advocacy on a wide range of public and social services on behalf of the Department. Funding of some €45.8m has been allocated to the CIB in 2010. The Citizens Information Board administers funding to the network of 42 Citizen Information Services (CIS) which operate from 262 locations nationwide comprising 110 centres and 152 outreach services. The board of the CIB has approved funding of €13.3m to the Citizen Information Services in 2010, which is an increase of €400,000 on funding available in 2009. In addition, the CIB provides development and support services, including a range of training supports; ICT infrastructure; supports to CIS Boards in relation to governance, financial and HR matters, as well as developing and publishing a wide range of resource materials relating to social services and entitlements.

Responsibility for the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) transferred to the CIB in July 2009. There are 51 MABS companies providing money advice to clients operating from 65 locations around the country, as well as the National Traveller MABS which operates on a national basis. The CIB Board has allocated some €18m to MABS in 2010. In addition, MABS National Development Limited (NDL) is funded by the CIB to provide a national support and development service to local MABS companies. Its functions include:

The provision of casework technical support for staff

The management of the MABSIS statistics system

MABS training unit which provides training support for all staff and local boards of management

Communications with the media on budgeting & money management

The organisation and management of the MABS National Telephone Helpline.

I am satisfied that the Citizen Information Services and the Money Advice and Budgeting Service are providing a high quality service to assist people locally and that the CIB is adequately resourced to support these services.

Questions Nos. 80 and 81 answered with Question No. 53.
Question No. 82 answered with Question No. 79.

Social Welfare Code

Martin Ferris

Question:

83 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will make changes to the habitual residency requirement for receipt of many social welfare payments which is acting as a barrier to many returned Irish persons from accessing the protections they need. [21616/10]

The determination of a person's habitual residence is made in accordance with Section 246 of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005, as amended. Subsection (4) specifically directs the deciding officer to "take into consideration all the circumstances of the case, including, in particular, the following:

(a) the length and continuity of residence in the State or in any other particular country;

(b) the length and purpose of any absence from the State;

(c) the nature and pattern of the person's employment;

(d) the person's main centre of interest, and

(e) the future intentions of the person concerned as they appear from all the circumstances."

These five specified factors have been derived from European Court of Justice case law which examined the concept of habitual residence in the context of social welfare benefits. The Department's guidelines go on to point out that "No single factor is conclusive. The evidential weight to be attributed to each factor will depend on the circumstances of each case. It is necessary to weigh up all the information and balance the evidence for and against an applicant satisfying the habitual residence condition".

The current guidelines address the issue of returning emigrants very specifically under the heading:

Resuming previous residence.

"A person who had previously been habitually resident in the State or within the Common Travel Area and who moved to live and work in another country and then resumes his/her permanent residence in the State may be regarded as being habitually resident immediately on his/her return to the State. In determining habitual residence in such cases the deciding officer should take account of:

purpose of return e.g. expiry of foreign residence permit;

the applicant's stated intentions

verified arrangements which have been made in regard to returning on a long-term basis e.g. transfer of financial accounts and any other assets;

length and continuity of the previous residence in the State;

the record of employment or self employment in another State; and

whether s/he has maintained links with the previous residence and can be regarded as resuming his/her previous residence rather than starting a new period of residence."

I am satisfied that Irish nationals returning to live in Ireland on a permanent basis should experience no difficulty in demonstrating that they satisfy the requirements of the Habitual Residence Condition.

Question No. 84 answered with Question No. 37.
Question No. 85 answered with Question No. 70.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

86 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Social Protection if any changes have been made in the assessment of means related allowances to take into account situations arising from the collapse in the property market leading to a situation whereby, in many instances, properties cannot be sold at all and applicants without any means of support are being denied such allowances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21399/10]

Social welfare legislation provides that the yearly value of "property owned but not personally used or enjoyed" is assessable for means testing purposes. Such property includes houses and premises owned by a claimant which may or may not be put to commercial use. However, it does not include property such as the home or, for example, a premises used by the claimant in carrying out a business. No changes to the current arrangements have been introduced in recent years. However, comprehensive guidelines in relation to the assessment of property were issued to relevant staff in my Department in November last year.

For assessment purposes, the current market value of the property is established as well as the amount of any outstanding mortgages on that property. The balance (market value less outstanding mortgage) is assessed by reference to a formula. Where the current market value is less than the outstanding mortgage, no assessment is made. The current market value of a property is the best estimate of what would be achievable if the property was offered for sale. Such an estimate will have regard to reductions in prices over recent years.

In establishing the current market value of a property, my Department may make enquiry of the State Valuation Office. Alternatively, the market value may be established through receipt of a reasonable current valuation from a registered auctioneer, with reference to the purchase price and date of purchase of the property or, alternatively, the inspector may agree a valuation with a customer having regard to the type and location of the individual property and prevailing market values in that area. Where a claimant considers that a decision on his or her claim is based on a market value of a property which is too high, he or she may appeal that decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office.

Social Welfare Benefits

Jack Wall

Question:

87 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection the action he is taking to ensure that the PPS number of every landlord is collected and recorded by his Department in respect of every rent supplement tenancy and made available to the Revenue Commissioners. [21611/10]

Section 888 of the Taxes Acts places an obligation on the Department to provide the Revenue Commissioners with payment details relating to rent supplement on an annual basis. Section 123 of the Finance Act 2007 Act places an additional obligation on the Department and the Health Service Executive (HSE) to request a PPS No. or Tax Reference Number from a landlord before payment of the supplement is made and it obliges the landlord to comply with the request in time for the HSE to have the information before payment is made. Neither the Department nor the HSE have any responsibility in monitoring or enforcing landlord compliance. This is a matter for the Revenue Commissioners and the Department provides all possible cooperation to assist them in this task.

The Department and the Revenue Commissioners have arranged for the collection of landlord PPS/Tax Reference Numbers to apply to new rent supplement claims registered from 28th October 2008 and to be returned as part of the annual return. Arrangements were put in place by the Department, with effect from 28th October 2008 to automate the process for the HSE to request the landlord's relevant PPS/Tax Reference Number. On receipt of the relevant tax details from the landlord the Executive were also provided with the facility to record the relevant number on the Department's IT system to facilitate an electronic transfer of information to the Revenue Commissioners. The HSE has advised the Department that it has now amended the rent supplement application form to include a section requesting the landlord PPS & Tax Reference Number. This now removes the requirement for a separate letter to issue separately to the landlord for the majority of cases.

Revenue are notified where a landlord fails to provide a PPS number or Tax Reference, so that they can pursue the matter. The Department has recently contacted the HSE to ensure that all landlord PPS/Tax Reference Numbers that have been received by the HSE are updated on the Department's computer records in accordance with its statutory obligations.

Tourism Industry

David Stanton

Question:

88 Deputy David Stanton asked the Taoiseach the number of anglers that visit Ireland each year; the breakdown vis-à-vis the different disciplines of angling such as sea angling, coarse angling, and game angling; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21318/10]

The CSO's monthly Overseas Travel release contains data on the number of visitors to Ireland classified by their country of residence. These results are obtained from the CSO's Country of Residence Survey which is carried out continuously at the airports and ports in the Republic of Ireland. The CSO's quarterly Tourism and Travel release collects data on the number of visitors to Ireland classified by purpose of journey and residency. Data on activities, such as angling, are not available from either the Overseas Travel or the Tourism and Travel releases.

Fáilte Ireland's Survey of Travellers also collects information from visitors to Ireland, including participation in activities. This is a survey of departing passengers only who have spent at least one night in the Republic of Ireland. This data is then used with the results of the CSO's Country of residence survey to obtain estimates for total participation in different activities. The Fáilte Ireland Survey of Travellers estimated that a total of 132,000 visitors participated in Angling in 2009, this represents a decline of 7% on 2008 figures. Estimates of average annual participation in different types of angling activity for the years 2006 to 2008 are detailed in the following table.

Type of Angling — Overseas Visitors

Average Estimated Visitors Per Year*

Coarse

47,000

Game

49,000

Sea

41,000

*Estimates are based on the average number participating in angling from 2006 to 2008. Tourists may have participated in more than one angling activity. Estimates are based on data collected from the CSO's Country of Residence Survey (CRS) and Fáilte Ireland's Survey of Overseas Travellers.

Further detail on Angling activity is available from the Fáilte Ireland website.

Interdepartmental Committees

Liz McManus

Question:

89 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Taoiseach the number of time the Cabinet committee on climate change met in 2009; the number of times it has met to date in 2010; when the next scheduled meeting will take place [21379/10]

The Cabinet Committee on Climate Change and Energy Security met twice in 2009, on 29 April and 7 October. The Committee's first meeting of 2010 is scheduled to take place in early June. Issues relating to Climate Change negotiations at EU level are also considered when appropriate by the Cabinet Committee on European Affairs, while relevant issues are discussed regularly at meetings of the full Government when that is appropriate.

It would be incorrect to correlate the number of meetings of the Cabinet Committee with the Government's commitment to addressing Climate Change and Energy Security issues. The Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government retains lead responsibility for climate change policy, with cross-departmental issues co-ordinated through the Senior Officials Group on Climate Change and Energy Security chaired by the Department of the Taoiseach. I am satisfied that significant progress is being achieved and that the issues are receiving the appropriate level of attention.

Departmental Agencies

John O'Mahony

Question:

90 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Taoiseach the agencies or bodies to which his Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which his Department is responsible in respect of his policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21758/10]

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the table beneath.

Name of Body/Agency

2007 Outturn

2008 Outturn

2009 Provisional Outturn

2010 Revised Estimate

€000

€000

€000

€000

National Economic and Social Development Office

5,812

5,371

3,401

3,332

National Forum On Europe

2,076

3,058

506

0

Newfoundland and Labrador Business Partnership

373

334

291

0

Task Force on Active Citizenship

112

6

17

0

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

91 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Taoiseach the amount of unspent money returned by his Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21787/10]

The table below details the surplus that was surrendered to the Department of Finance for each year from 2007 to 2009 and the estimate provision for my Department for each year.

Year

Surplus to Surrender

Estimate Provision

2007

8,568,825

43,736,000

2008

9,308,252

45,394,000

2009

8,450,714

32,686,000

2010

N/A

28,756,000

I have provided a breakdown showing the estimate provision and outturn for each year under administration and programme subheads below. The largest single element in each year was in respect of provision of the costs of the Moriarty Tribunal, which included a contingency element in the event of costs arising from the conclusion of its work.

DEPARTMENT OF THE TAOISEACH — Appropriation Account 2007

Account of the sum expended, in the year ended 31 December 2007, compared with the sum granted and of the sum which may be applied as appropriations-in-aid in addition thereto, for the salaries and expenses of the Department of the Taoiseach, including certain services administered by the Department and for payment of grants and grants-in-aid.

Service

Estimate Provision

Outturn

€000

€000

ADMINISTRATION

A.1.

SALARIES, WAGES AND ALLOWANCES

14,633

13,952

A.2.

TRAVEL AND SUBSISTENCE

770

612

A.3.

INCIDENTAL EXPENSES

1,998

1,506

A.4.

POSTAL AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

680

572

A.5.

OFFICE MACHINERY AND OTHER OFFICE SUPPLIES

AND RELATED SERVICES

2,060

1,675

A.6.

OFFICE PREMISES EXPENSES

800

506

A.7.

CONSULTANCY SERVICES

275

256

A.8.

INFORMATION SOCIETY — eCABINET AND OTHER INITIATIVES

296

172

A.9.

VALUE FOR MONEY AND POLICY REVIEWS

26

OTHER SERVICES

B.

NATIONAL ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICE

(GRANT-IN-AID)

6,053

5,812

C.

FORUM FOR PEACE AND RECONCILIATION

5

D.

COMMEMORATION INITIATIVES

200

155

E.

ALL-PARTY COMMITTEE ON THE CONSTITUTION

398

215

F.

TRIBUNAL OF INQUIRY (DUNNES PAYMENTS)

1

G.

TRIBUNAL OF INQUIRY (PAYMENTS TO MESSRS.

C.J. HAUGHEY AND M. LOWRY)

10,008

4,155

H.

INDEPENDENT COMMISSION OF INQUIRY

1

I.

NATIONAL FORUM ON EUROPE

1,621

2,076

J.

NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS

361

373

K.

INFORMATION SOCIETY AND eINCLUSION

3,000

2,768

L.

COMMISSION OF INVESTIGATION

450

414

M.

TASK FORCE ON ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP

200

112

Gross Total

43,836

35,331

Deduct:—

N.

APPROPRIATIONS-IN-AID

100

164

Net Total

43,736

35,167

SURPLUS TO BE SURRENDERED

8,568,825

DEPARTMENT OF THE TAOISEACH — Appropriation Account 2008

Account of the sum expended, in the year ended 31 December 2008, compared with the sum granted and of the sum which may be applied as appropriations-in-aid in addition thereto, for the salaries and expenses of the Department of the Taoiseach, including certain services administered by the Department and for payment of grants and grants-in-aid.

Service

Estimate Provision

Outturn

€000

€000

ADMINISTRATION

A.1.

SALARIES, WAGES AND ALLOWANCES

14,091

14,364

A.2.

TRAVEL AND SUBSISTENCE

795

723

A.3.

INCIDENTAL EXPENSES

1,620

1,620

A.4.

POSTAL AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

697

619

A.5.

OFFICE MACHINERY AND OTHER OFFICE SUPPLIES AND RELATED SERVICES

2,048

1,440

A.6.

OFFICE PREMISES EXPENSES

850

513

A.7.

CONSULTANCY SERVICES

275

107

A.8.

INFORMATION SOCIETY — eCABINET AND OTHER INITIATIVES

1

A.9.

VALUE FOR MONEY AND POLICY REVIEWS

27

25

A.10.

ORGANISATIONAL REVIEW PROGRAMME

750

745

OTHER SERVICES

B.

NATIONAL ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICE

(GRANT-IN-AID)

6,500

5,371

C.

FORUM FOR PEACE AND RECONCILIATION

5

D.

COMMEMORATION INITIATIVES

200

121

E.

TRIBUNAL OF INQUIRY (DUNNES PAYMENTS)

1

F.

TRIBUNAL OF INQUIRY (PAYMENTS TO MESSRS.

C.J. HAUGHEY AND M. LOWRY)

10,016

4,009

G.

NATIONAL FORUM ON EUROPE

3,809

3,058

H.

NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS

354

334

I.

INFORMATION SOCIETY AND eINCLUSION

66

66

J.

COMMISSION OF INVESTIGATION

1

K.

ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP OFFICE

200

6

Gross Total

42,306

33,121

Deduct:—

L.

APPRO IN-AID

100

224

Net Total

42,206

32,897

SURPLUS TO BE SURRENDERED

9,308,252

Vote 2 Department of the Taoiseach

Appropriation Account 2009 —Provisional

Service

2009 Estimate provision

2009 Outturn

€000

€000

Administration

A.1.

Salaries, wages and allowances

13,974

13,501

A.2.

Travel and subsistence

731

479

A.3.

Incidental expenses

1,587

618

A.4.

Postal and telecommunications services

545

407

A.5.

Office machinery and other office supplies

And related services

1,961

1,007

A.6.

Office premises expenses

741

493

A.7.

Consultancy services

118

3

A.8.

Value for money and policy reviews

1

0

A.9.

Organisational review programme

676

497

Other Services

B.

National Economic and Social Development Office (grant-in-aid)

5,059

3,401

C.

Forum for Peace and Reconciliation

5

0

D.

Commemoration initiatives

170

133

E.

Tribunal of inquiry (Dunnes payments)

1

0

F.

Tribunal of inquiry (payments to messrs.

C.J. Haughey and M. Lowry)

7,500

3,796

G.

National Forum on Europe

360

506

H.

Newfoundland and Labrador Business Partnerships

300

291

Information society and eINCLUSION

0

I.

Commission of investigation

1

0

J.

Active Citizenship Office

56

17

Gross Expenditure

33,786

25,149

Deduct:—

K.

Appropriations-in-aid

1,100

914

Net Expenditure

32,686

24,235

Surplus to be surrendered

8,450,714

Loan Guarantee Schemes

Enda Kenny

Question:

92 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation his plans to introduce a loan guarantee scheme to assist small businesses in obtaining credit from banks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21823/10]

As previously advised to this House, work is underway in my Department on the examination of a possible scheme of Loan Guarantees for the SME sector which could augment lending by banks by addressing particular market failures. This is in line with one of the recommendations contained in the Mazars Review on Bank Lending to SMEs. Enterprise Ireland and Forfas carried out examinations of loan guarantee schemes in the UK and in some other countries. Following more detailed examination, Forfas has recently submitted a report to my Department which is being considered. On completion of this work I will bring the results before the Government. As with any initiative, we will need to ensure that any scheme developed directly assists businesses, facilitates genuine additional lending in the market and, at the same time, safeguards the interests of the taxpayer.

Research and Development

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

93 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if his attention has been drawn to the requirement for all EU member states to adopt a national action plan setting out specific objectives and actions to develop an attractive researcher career and increased researcher mobility, in accordance with the communication issued in 2008 by the European Commission, Better Careers and More Mobility: A European Partnership for Researchers; the progress that has been made in adopting such a national action plan; the result of the consultation process undertaken by his Department in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21320/10]

Following the European Commission's 2007 Green Paper,“The European Research Area: New Perspectives,”the Commission launched a number of initiatives aimed at achieving the ERA, including a Communication, published in May 2008, on “Better careers and more mobility: A European Partnership for researchers,” which targeted four key areas for improving researcher careers and mobility, namely:

open recruitment and portability of grants

meeting the social security and pension needs of mobile researchers,

attractive employment and working conditions and

enhanced training, skills and experience for researchers.

The Commission emphasised the "partnership" approach to its initiative, recognising the distinct competences of the Member States and the Commission in relevant areas. This approach was endorsed by the Competitiveness Council in September 2008 when the Council adopted Conclusions on “Better careers and more mobility: A European Partnership for researchers” and invited Member States to draw up National Action Plans comprising definition of national objectives and actions, on the basis of the priority lines of action proposed by the Commission, or any other appropriate actions, and to report regularly on actions undertaken or envisaged.

Ireland welcomed this initiative and is supportive of the concept of the European Partnership for Researchers between the Commission and the Council and the Member States. My Department has responsibility for preparing the National Action Plan and is currently drawing up a draft Action Plan. The plan will take into account consultations with key stakeholders, which have yet to be completed. The Action Plan, when completed, will record the state of progress in relation to relevant issues, recognising the competences of the relevant bodies in relation to further progress.

Ireland's National Action Plan is our plan of actions to improve researcher careers and mobility in line with overall EU partnership, taking into account our specific circumstances. It will address each of the four areas targeted by the European Commission and, in doing so, will also highlight areas where progress has already been made, for example:

The implementation of the European Scientific Visa (Hosting Agreement Scheme) under Council Directive 2005/71/EC on Third Country Researchers;

The establishment of the Irish Researchers Mobility Office, a one-stop shop for researchers linked to the European Researchers Mobility Portal, (now "Euraxess") which is operated by the Irish Universities Association and supported by my Department; and

The adoption of the European Charter and Code for researchers in all seven of the Irish Universities.

Industrial Development

Damien English

Question:

94 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the number of visits to the Industrial Development Authority business and technology park in Navan, County Meath that have taken place in 2010 by companies looking to set up here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21340/10]

Damien English

Question:

95 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the number of new jobs created in the Industrial Development Authority business and technology park in Navan, County Meath for each of the years from 2008 and to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21341/10]

Damien English

Question:

96 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the number of jobs lost in the Industrial Development Authority business and technology park in Navan for each of the years 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21342/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 94 to 96, inclusive, together.

I am informed by IDA Ireland that there are 5 IDA supported projects located in the IDA Business Park in Navan, County Meath. I am delighted to say that, earlier this year, one of these companies, Generali PanEurope (GPE) and Generali International (GI) announced that they have commissioned a new building, to be located on the Park. The new building will act as Generali PanEurope's Headquarters and Generali International's Irish base. Generali has had a presence in Navan since 1999. Since then its operations have grown significantly and employment has increased fivefold. Combined, Generali International and Generali PanEurope employ over 100 people in Navan. It is envisaged that the numbers employed will continue to increase over the coming years, solidifying Generali's long term commitment to Navan and reflecting both companies' growth plans.

The remaining IDA supported companies located on the park are BT Ireland, Europ Assistance Holdings, PNC International and Welch Allyn Ltd. As employment figures in individual IDA companies are provided in confidence for statistical purposes only, it is not possible to provide details of the number of jobs gained and lost in IDA supported companies on the Park. Details of the number of jobs gained and lost in IDA companies in County Meath in 2008 and 2009 are shown on the attached tabular statement. Figures for 2010 will not be available until early 2011. I have been informed by IDA that, to date in 2010, there have not been any site visits to County Meath.

Table showing the number of new jobs created and the number of jobs lost in IDA supported companies in County Meath 2008 and 2009

Year

2008

2009

New Jobs Created

83

24

Jobs Lost

83

159

Redundancy Payments

Tom Hayes

Question:

97 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the length of time it is taking for employers to obtain their rebate of payment of statutory redundancy; the maximum waiting time for payment; the number of staff allocated to that task; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21364/10]

My Department administers the Social Insurance Fund (SIF) in relation to redundancy matters on behalf of the Department of Social and Family Affairs. There are two types of payment made from the SIF — rebates to those employers who have paid statutory redundancy to eligible employees, and statutory lump sums to employees whose employers are insolvent and/or in receivership/liquidation.

The Redundancy Payments Section of my Department is currently processing rebate applications from employers submitted by post from October 2009 and those filed on-line from November 2009, so that the waiting time is approximately 6 to 7 months depending on the manner of filing the application. In respect of lump sum payments paid directly to employees in instances where employers are unable to pay the statutory redundancy entitlements, the Section is, in general, processing claims dating from September/October 2009. In some instances where the necessary supporting documentation for claims is not provided to my Department, or where queries arise, processing of claims can be further delayed until the required documentation is provided and/or outstanding queries are resolved.

Efforts continue to be made by my Department to deliver more acceptable turnaround processing times for Redundancy payments given the difficulties that this gives rise to for both individual employees and the business community. Measures already taken in the Department in 2009 to alleviate the pressures on the Payments area include:

Almostdoubling the number of staff working solely on redundancy payment claims through reassignment to a current level of 52 full time equivalents;

Prioritisation of the Department'sovertime budget towards staff in the Section to tackle the backlog outside normal hours;

Establishment of aspecial call handling facility in NERA to deal with the huge volume of telephone calls from people and businesses concerned about their payments;

Better quality information relating to current processing times on the Department's website;

Engagement with the Revenue Commissioners to facilitate theoffset of redundancy rebate payments by employers against existing outstanding tax liabilities which those employers owe to the Revenue Commissioners.

The backlog and waiting times remain at unacceptable levels. However, improvements are evident. I should point out that my Department has, in 2009, processed 50,664 claims, up 70% on 2008, and made corresponding payments totalling €336m, which results in average weekly payments to the value of €6.5m being issued. In the period 2007-2009, the level of new claims lodged with my Department has increased cumulatively by 200%. This contrasts with the previous two-year period 2005-2007 in which period the increase in new claims lodged was just 10%. During the period 1 January 2010 to 30 April, 2010, 23,593 claims were received and 27,592 were processed to the value of €159m which is a weekly average of €9.4m.

Responsibility for the payment functions arising under the Redundancy and Insolvency payment schemes is due to be transferred to the Department of Social Protection with effect from 1 January 2011. In transferring the functions between Departments, it is the intention that this will operate seamlessly and without any adverse impact on the service levels being experienced by individuals or the business community awaiting payment of redundancy claims.

Industrial Development

Pat Breen

Question:

98 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, further to Parliamentary Question No. 103 of 12 May 2010, the number of site visits made by agencies under the aegis of his Department with a view to creating employment in Cork, Galway and Dublin in the years 2007 to date in 2010; the location of these visits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21408/10]

I have been informed by IDA that in the period from January 2007 to date in 2010, there have been a total of 469 site visits by potential investors to Dublin (City and County), Cork (City and County) and Galway (City and County). Details of the locations of these visits are set out in the attached tabular statement. Because potential investors regularly visit locations in both the city and the county on the one visit, it is not possible in the time available to give details of each of the itineraries undertaken. When the information becomes available, I will forward it to the Deputy.

Table showing the number of site visits to Dublin (city and county), Cork (city and county) and Galway (city and county) in the period from January 2007 to date in 2010

Location

2007

2008

2009

2010 to date

Dublin City & County

86

92

68

55

Cork City and County

17

41

29

14

Galway City and County

17

14

22

14

Redundancy Payments

Denis Naughten

Question:

99 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the reason for the ongoing delay in processing an application to the insolvent fund within his Department from persons (details supplied) who were made redundant from a company in County Roscommon; when the outstanding moneys will be awarded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21477/10]

My Department administers the Social Insurance Fund (SIF) in relation to both the Redundancy and Insolvency Payments Schemes on behalf of the Department of Social and Family Affairs. I can confirm that my Department processed and paid claims under the Insolvency Payments Scheme in respect of Arrears of Wages, Holiday Pay and Minimum Notice for the person concerned and other former employees of this company in April 2010. I can also confirm that my Department received a Redundancy lump sum claim for the individual concerned on 4 January 2010. This claim awaits processing. In respect of redundancy lump sum payments paid directly to employees, such as in this instance, the Section is, in general, processing claims dating from September/October 2009.

On the Redundancy side the scale of the challenge is evident from the statistics that show incoming redundancy claims in 2009 amounted to 77,001 which represents a threefold increase over the level of claims lodged in 2007 and earlier years. In 2007, claims received were of the order of 25,000. Efforts continue to be made by my Department to deliver more acceptable turnaround processing times for Redundancy payments given the difficulties that this gives rise to for both individual employees and the business community. Measures already taken in the Department in 2009 to alleviate the pressures on the Payments area include:

almostdoubling the number of staff through reassignment to a current level of 52 full time equivalents;

prioritisation of the Department'sovertime budget towards staff in the Section to tackle the backlog outside normal hours;

establishment of aspecial call handling facility in NERA to deal with the huge volume of telephone calls from people and businesses concerned about their payments.

Better quality information relating to current processing times on the Department's website;

Engagement with the Revenue Commissioners to facilitate theoffset of redundancy rebate payments by employers against existing outstanding tax liabilities which those employers owe to the Revenue Commissioners.

The backlog and waiting times remain at unacceptable levels. However, improvements are evident. I should point out that my Department has, in 2009, processed 50,664 claims, up 70% on 2008. During the period 1 January 2010 to 30 April, 2010, 23,593 claims were received and 27,592 were processed. In the year to date, inroads have been made on the backlog of claims on hand, which reduced from 41,168 at the end of January to 36,333 at the end of April 2010.

Responsibility for the payment functions arising under the Redundancy and Insolvency payment schemes is due to be transferred to the Department of Social Protection with effect from 1 January 2011. In transferring the functions between Departments, it is the intention that this will operate seamlessly and without any adverse impact on the service levels being experienced by individuals or the business community awaiting payment of redundancy claims.

Sean Fleming

Question:

100 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation when redundancy payment will be finalised in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21518/10]

My Department administers the Social Insurance Fund (SIF) in relation to redundancy matters on behalf of the Department of Social and Family Affairs. There are two types of payment made from the SIF — rebates to those employers who have paid statutory redundancy to eligible employees, and statutory lump sums to employees whose employers are insolvent and/or in receivership/liquidation. I can confirm that my Department received a lump sum claim for the individual concerned on 23 June 2009.

In instances such as this, where the employer does not formally wind the company up but goes into informal insolvency and is unable to pay the statutory redundancy entitlements, the Department seeks from the employer evidence of inability to pay the entitlements to the employees. This involves requesting a statement from the company's Accountant or Solicitor attesting to the inadequacy of assets to make the redundancy payments and the latest set of financial accounts for the company. The employer is also asked to admit liability for the 40% liability attaching to the company arising from the redundancy payments.

If this information is provided to the Department, the employees are paid their redundancy entitlement from the Social Insurance Fund. Upon payment, the Department pursues the company for the 40% share that the company would ordinarily have been expected to pay to the employees. In the present instance, my Department has been in contact with the employer seeking to obtain all of the necessary documentation and the employer has, at this point, provided some but not all of the documentation. Upon receipt of the outstanding documentation and if this is in order, it should be possible to process the claim for payment shortly thereafter.

If the necessary supporting documentation required from the employer is not provided to my Department, the employee will be advised by my Department to take a case to the Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) against the employer to seek a determination establishing the employee's right and entitlement to redundancy. Once such a determination is available, the Department is then in a position to make the payment to the employee concerned. Should the outstanding documentation be provided by the employer during the period while the case is pending a hearing before the EAT, this would allow the claim to be processed by my Department in the usual way.

Industrial Development

Phil Hogan

Question:

101 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the number of site visits made by the Industrial Development Authority to sites for the purpose of creating new businesses and employment in County Kilkenny for each year from 2007 to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21530/10]

I have been informed by IDA Ireland that in the period from January 2007 to date in 2010, there have been 5 site visits by potential investors to County Kilkenny, 2 in 2007, 1 in 2008 and 2 in 2009.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

102 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, further to Parliamentary Question No. 87 of 12 May 2010, the location of the 71 Industrial Development Authority supplied companies; the number that each company employs; if he is satisfied that the communities named in the question have received their fair share; if not, if he will ensure that genuine efforts are made to realise the need of these areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21550/10]

Details of the locations of the companies, mentioned in my reply to the Deputy on 12 May 2010, are set out on the attached tabular statement as are the numbers employed in IDA supported companies in each of the counties in question. It is not possible to give employee figures in respect of individual companies, as information regarding numbers employed in individual companies is supplied in confidence, for statistical purposes only.

IDA is fully committed to securing balanced regional development, including winning investment for the Border region. Indeed, one of the high level goals set out in the IDA strategy document, entitled“Horizon 2020”, is that, in the period 2010 to 2014, 50% of FDI projects will be located outside of Dublin and Cork. As part of its strategy to attract inward investment, IDA Ireland introduces a prospective client company to 3 or 4 selected locations, which can meet the company’s requirements for skills, labour, site and/or building(s), and infrastructure. However, the promoting company takes the final decision on location in all cases.

Table showing the number of IDA supported companies per county and the total number of employees in IDA supported companies in those counties

County

No. of Companies

Employment by County

Donegal

13

1,683

Sligo

20

2,190

Leitrim

5

988

Cavan

5

1,033

Monaghan

6

356

Louth

22

1,637

Total

71

7,887

Work Permits

Brendan Howlin

Question:

103 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation when a full response will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21742/10]

I am in receipt of the Deputy's representations in this regard and will respond in full shortly. I am advised that the person concerned holds a current Work Permit valid until 19 September 2010 with a particular employer as stated on the Permit. In the event that a person changes employer, it is a requirement of the Employment Permits legislation to apply for a new Work Permit with the new employer. Indeed, it is considered an offence under the Employment Permit Act 2006, to work for an employer other than the employer stated on the Work Permit issued.

Details in relation to the documentation required, fees and application forms can be found on my Department's website at www.deti.ie. The individual should submit details of his employment history and current circumstances with the application form and these will be considered by the Employment Permits Section of my Department. As a Permit holder for a reasonably long period of time in the State, I would recommend also that the individual maintain his immigration and Permit permissions up to date as this may lead to difficulties should he wish to apply for residency at a future date with the Department of Justice and Law Reform.

Departmental Agencies

John O'Mahony

Question:

104 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the agencies or bodies to which his Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which his Department is responsible in respect of his policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21751/10]

The table appended lists the Offices, agencies, and other bodies and groups currently under the aegis of my Department. The funding allocated to each of these entities by my Department between 2007 and 2010 inclusive is also provided. The allocations include Exchequer funding and, where appropriate, National Training Fund monies.

In addition to the core funding provisions set out on the table, my Department also makes payments from time to time in respect of certain once-off payments, such as legal costs, which arise for some of the Offices under my Department's remit. My Department has also made payments to the Personal Injuries Assessment Board in respect of legal costs. While the Board primarily funds its operational costs through fees charged in the course of its activities, my Department has been advised by the Attorney General's Office that the Personal Injuries Assessment Board Act, 2003, does not allow such fees to be used to cover non-operational legal costs. My Department therefore bears such costs.

In addition to allocations from my Department, some of the agencies listed on the table below receive funding from other sources, such as fees, property rental, grant refunds, and from other Departments or bodies. Funding from these sources is not included in the table. Responsibility for FÁS and Skillnets and for the National Training Fund (NTF) transferred to the Minister for Education and Skills on 1 May 2010. However, the full 2010 allocation for both of these bodies, and for bodies under my remit that are funded from the NTF, is provided for the Deputy's information.

Appendix — Allocations 2007-2010 from Dept. of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation

2007 REV Allocation

2008 REV Allocation

2009 REV Allocation

2010 REV Allocation

€000

€000

€000

€000

Offices

Labour Court

3,085

3,193

3,115

2,208

Labour Relations Commission

6,194

6,600

6,286

5,641

Companies Registration Office and Registry of Friendly Societies

10,097

10,091

8,912

7,995

Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement

4,823

4,957

5,535

6,086

National Employment Rights Authority1

8,553

10,817

8,731

7,824

Patents Office2

Employment Appeals Tribunal2

Agencies

County & City Enterprise Boards (35 in existence)

31,856

31,985

27,812

28,310

Competition Authority

6,104

6,776

5,568

4,734

Enterprise Ireland3

278,066

297,444

333,660

416,678

FÁS4

1,046,312

1,096,192

1,063,936

1,017,753

Forfás

35,035

38,475

37,164

43,555

Health & Safety Authority

22,513

24,440

22,638

21,959

IDA Ireland

143,243

146,250

117,971

128,240

Inter TradeIreland5

11,892

10,682

8,499

7,848

Irish Auditing & Accounting Supervisory Authority (IAASA)6

1,528

1,547

1,532

1,345

ODCA/National Consumer Agency7

8,397

10,000

8,588

7,232

National Standards Authority of Ireland

7,719

8,787

8,241

7,432

Personal Injuries Assessment Board8

60

Science Foundation Ireland

165,772

183,643

170,524

159,833

Shannon Development

3,350

3,357

957

7,532

Other Bodies 9

Skillnets4

24,500

27,179

16,595

16,595

Joint Labour Committees

135

135

135

121

Company Law Review Group

133

133

113

101

Sales Review Group

20

18

Better Regulation Group

60

60

60

54

Notes

1 The National Employment Rights Authority was established on an interim basis by the Government in February 2007.

2 The Employment Appeals Tribunal and the Patents Office are funded from the Department’s central Administrative Budget and do not have separate budgetary allocations.

3 The Employment Subsidy Scheme (Temporary) was introduced during 2009 and is managed by Enterprise Ireland. The 2010 REV allocation for the agency includes an allocation of €114.5m for the scheme.

4 Responsibility for FÁS and Skillnets transferred to the Department of Education and Skills on 1 May 2010. The total REV allocation for the year is provided for information.

5 InterTradeIreland is co-financed by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment in Northern Ireland. The figures provided on the table refer to the contribution of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation.

6 Irish Auditing & Accounting Supervisory Authority (IAASA) is co-financed by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation and industry associations. The figures provided on the table refer to the contribution of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation.

7 The functions of the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs (ODCA) were transferred to the National Consumer Agency when the Agency was established on a statutory basis in 2007.

8 Start-up funding was provided to the Personal Injuries Assessment Board in 2004 and 2005. The Board’s statutory activities have primarily been self-financing since 2006. The allocation of €60,000 for 2010 relates to pension costs.

9 In addition to the entities shown on the above table, the following bodies/groups which come under the aegis the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation are funded through the Department’s agencies:

i. Crafts Council of Ireland

ii. National Competitiveness Council

iii. Expert Group on Future Skills Needs

The Expert Group on Future Skills Needs reports jointly to the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation and the Minister for Education and Skills.

Industrial Development

Martin Ferris

Question:

105 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if he has held discussions in the last 18 months with management of a company (details supplied) regarding the future of its two factories in Abbeyfeale, County Limerick and Mallow, County Cork; if not if he has plans to do so in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21770/10]

I can assure the Deputy that IDA Ireland is in constant contact with Kostal both in Ireland and in Germany. A number of meetings have been held with local Irish management and parent company management recently and further meeting are planned. I am aware of the difficult automotive environment over the past 18 months, from which Kostal is now emerging. The company is well positioned to benefit as the market improves given its reputation/market leadership positions and its ongoing investment in new technology and people.

IDA is fully engaged with Kostal to secure the long term future of its operations in Abbeyfeale and Mallow. The Agency also engages closely with the German parent, Kostal Gmbh to identify and explore opportunities to transform Kostal Ireland as a Centre of Excellence for electronics in the Group and maintain its leadership position within this sector through investment in new technology, training and research and development. IDA continues to explore opportunities in the wider Group with local and parent company management in positioning Ireland as a key location for future investment. It is my intention to meet with many important companies for Ireland, such as Kostal, over the coming period.

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

106 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the amount of unspent money returned by his Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21780/10]

Under Public Financial Procedures, at the end of each financial year unspent Voted monies must normally be surrendered to the Department of Finance. However, under the Multi-Annual Capital Envelope Framework, up to 10% of unspent Capital allocations in any year may be carried over to the following year. Table 1 below sets out the Exchequer provision for my Department for each of the years 2007, 2008 and 2009, along with the unspent surplus, the amount of un-used Capital allocations carried over to the subsequent year, and the net amount surrendered to the Department of Finance. Table 2 sets out the main areas where savings were realised in each of the years in question.

Table 1: Details of Departmental budget and surpluses, 2007-2009

2007

2008

2009

€,000

€,000

€,000

(a)

Departmental Budget1

1,407,633

1,516,345

1,495,714

(b)

Surplus for year

67,396

59,037

18,909

(c)

of which, unspent Capital allocations carried over to the subsequent year

23,428

18,326

6,440

(d)

Surplus surrendered to the Dept. of Finance (b-c)

43,968

40,711

12,469

1In addition, the Department had an allocation from the National Training Fund (NTF) of €395,666 million for 2007, €409,907 million for 2008 and €381,483 million for 2009. Any surplus in NTF expenditure at the end of each year is retained by the Fund and is not returned to the Department of Finance. From 1 May 2010, responsibility for the NTF transferred to the Minister for Education and Skills.

Table 2: Areas where main savings were realised

Year

Explanation for main savings

2007

Appropriations-in-Aid were almost €20 million higher than forecast, reducing the requirement to draw-down Exchequer funds.

IDA’s Own Resource Income from grant refunds was higher than expected, resulting in a lower requirement for Exchequer funding.

The Department and its agencies carried a high number of vacancies throughout the year, with a consequent impact on the start-up of a number of new activities.

Planning and related issues led to delays in Enterprise Ireland infrastructural projects.

Reduction in applications under some demand-led grant schemes also contributed to the underspend.

2008

As a result of a Government decision in July 2008 to reduce public expenditure, savings were realised in a number of areas, including:

FAS

Science & Technology Programmes

Science & Technology Programmes

National Consumer Agency

Administrative Budget expenditure

Forfas

Workplace Innovation Fund

Enterprise Ireland

DA Ireland

The savings were due to a combination of administrative efficiencies and a lower-take up of grants in some demand-led schemes.

2009

There was a lower take-up than expected on some FAS programmes which were introduced in 2009.

FAS also achieved administrative efficiencies.

Savings were made by the National Consumer Agency due to staff vacancies and related non-pay savings.

Smaller savings were made on other programmes.

Redundancy Payments

John O'Donoghue

Question:

107 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive the result of their redundancy application. [21894/10]

I am pleased to advise the Deputy that my Department has recently processed this redundancy lump sum claim on behalf of the individual concerned and that payment of the amount due issued on 21 May, 2010.

Work Permits

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

108 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if his attention has been drawn to the campaign being run by the Migrant Rights Centre to reform the employment permit system to enable migrant workers to change jobs more easily; if he will alter the employment permits to give full effect to section 8(3) of the Employment Permits Act 2006, which allows workers to change employment within a particular sector; if he intends to support this campaign and act on these proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21916/10]

The Employment Permits Act 2006 sets out in legislation the rules governing employment permits. One of the main objectives of this Act was to increase the rights and protections afforded to migrant workers and the means to ensure redress in the event of exploitative practices. The Act's provisions give immigrants greater freedom, autonomy and control over their own employment choices by enabling workers for the first time to apply and re-apply for their own permit and allowing workers to change their employer after a period of a year and move to another employment in order to take advantage of better conditions or career options. Last year, my Department issued almost 1,500 employment permits in respect of employees changing to new employers.

A properly controlled employment permit system requires that permits be issued to a specific employee for a specific job with a specific employer. To do otherwise would not only risk abuse of the employment permit system but would make it much more difficult to ensure that employers observed the employment rights of employees. The Employment Permits Act 2006 allows for regular review of Ireland's economic migration policies and my Department keeps these policies under review, in line with the emerging needs of the labour market, on an on-going basis.

Industrial Development

Deirdre Clune

Question:

109 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if State supports were provided to a multinational company to help with the construction of a plant (details supplied) in County Cork; the impact recent announcements will have on this support; where State bodies who provided such supports now stand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21917/10]

Deirdre Clune

Question:

110 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if State supports were provided to a multinational company to help with the construction of a plant (details supplied) in County Cork; the impact recent announcements will have on this support; where State bodies who provided such supports now stand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21918/10]

Seán Barrett

Question:

111 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if, in view of the recent announcement by a company (details supplied) of its intention to phase out its operation at Pottery Road, Dún Laoghaire, County Dublin between 2011 and 2014, he will immediately contact the Industrial Development Authority and Enterprise Ireland to ensure that every effort is made to find an alternative pharmaceutical company to save the 210 jobs at risk; if he will provide a regular six monthly report to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment on his efforts to find a replacement enterprise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21923/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 109 to 111, inclusive, together.

Pfizer's plan to cut its worldwide workforce by 6,000 in 14 sites over the next four years is aimed at integrating the Pfizer and Wyeth manufacturing and supply organizations, which have significant overcapacity following the Pfizer takeover of Wyeth late last year. After the completion of the reorganisation Pfizer will still be one of the largest and most strategic employers in Ireland, employing in excess of 4,000 people. It will continue to have manufacturing operations at 7 separate locations. I have asked the IDA to immediately start to explore the possibility of other major players in life science sector taking over the facilities.

While any impact on jobs at the facilities in Loughbeg and Shanbally in Cork, and in Dún Laoghaire in Dublin, are not due to occur until 2012 to 2014, IDA is confident that a buyer will be found for at least some of its facilities and will work closely with Pfizer in this regard. In the recent past IDA/Pfizer has been successful with the sale of its Animal Health (Fort Dodge) plant in Sligo and its Loughbeg API plant, preserving jobs at both locations. Pfizer was approved and paid grant assistance in respect of the Loughbeg facility. However, since this was some time ago, there is now no repayment liability attaching to the assistance paid. In respect of the facility in Shanbally, Cork, Pfizer was not paid grant assistance.

The Government will work to support Pfizer's growth plans in Ireland. They will secure further investment from Pfizer in Ireland, particularly in the Biopharma and services areas. I will keep the House informed of any significant developments.

Legal Costs

Damien English

Question:

112 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the amount spent by his Department on legal advice in relation to the export credit insurance scheme from 2000 to date in 2010; if he will provide for an annual breakdown in tabular form. [21941/10]

The table below sets out the amount spent on legal advice in relation to export credit insurance from 2000 to 2010. This predominantly relates to issues arising from the scheme operated by this Department for several decades but which ceased operation in 1998. Part of the 2010 payment (€2,276.61) relates to work on the assessment of a possible reintroduction of State-supported Export Credit Insurance. The fees incurred in the years 2000-2003 related primarily to a major legal action involving the Department at that time. The expenses incurred since then relate primarily to legal work involved in the recovery of debt on old policies, which had previously been considered irrecoverable. However as a result of the Department's work in pursuing these cases in recent years, a total of €6.6m has been recovered for the State to date.

Year

2000

159,713.50

2001

64,295.71

2002

404,899.06

2003

590,335.77

2004

81,505.50

2005

32,000.53

2006

54,495.93

2007

0

2008

16,262.52

2009

32,336.20

2010

5,374.86

Tax Code

Seymour Crawford

Question:

113 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Finance the reason there are two different rates of VAT regarding the breeding of horses; his views on same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21882/10]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the rate of VAT on the supply of insemination services is 13.5%, regardless of the form of the service. The various rates mentioned to by the Deputy appear to refer to the different systems of VAT operating for farmers depending on whether they are registered for VAT or not. A farmer who is registered for VAT must charge VAT on the supply of all farm services, including insemination services, at the VAT rate appropriate to that service; which in this case is 13.5%.

Where a farmer is not registered for VAT he or she does not charge VAT on any farming services being supplied. However, where an unregistered farmer supplies any agricultural produce or service, including insemination, to a VAT-registered person, the farmer may add a flat-rate addition of 5.2% to the amount invoiced to the VAT-registered person. This flat-rate addition is designed to compensate the unregistered farmer for VAT suffered on his or her purchases.

John O'Mahony

Question:

114 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Finance his plans to suspend the carbon tax on petrol and diesel in view of the high oil prices and the increasing costs to motorists to purchase fuel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22120/10]

John O'Mahony

Question:

116 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Finance his plans to suspend the carbon tax on petrol and diesel in view of the high oil prices and the increasing costs to motorists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21352/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 114 and 116 together.

I announced in the Budget that a carbon tax at a rate of €15 per tonne is being introduced on fossil fuels. The tax was applied to petrol and auto-diesel with effect from midnight, 9 December 2009; and applied from 1 May 2010 to kerosene, marked gas oil (also known as ‘green diesel' or ‘agricultural diesel'), liquid petroleum gas (LPG), fuel oil and natural gas. The application of the tax to coal and commercial peat is subject to a Commencement Order. These Budget announcements are contained in Finance Act 2010 which has now been enacted. I have no plans to suspend the carbon tax.

Tax Collection

Tom Hayes

Question:

115 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding a claim for medical expenses in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21351/10]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the person in question made a valid claim in respect of medical expenses incurred, however, as this person had paid no income tax during the year in question i.e. 2009, no refund of tax was due.

Question No. 116 answered with Question No. 114.

Tax Code

Phil Hogan

Question:

117 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Finance if carbon tax will be applied to peat production; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21363/10]

I announced in the Budget that a carbon tax at a rate of €15 per tonne is being introduced on fossil fuels. The tax was applied to petrol and auto-diesel with effect from midnight, 9 December 2009; and applied from 1 May 2010 to kerosene, marked gas oil (also known as ‘green diesel' or ‘agricultural diesel'), liquid petroleum gas (LPG), fuel oil and natural gas. The application of the tax to coal and commercial peat is subject to a Commencement Order.

A full relief from the carbon tax applies to EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) installations in the powergen sector, but ETS installations in other sectors will be required to comply with EU minimum excise rates applying to the fuel in question. However, there is no EU minimum excise rate in the case of peat. Solid fuels, including commercial peat, as indicated above are subject to a commencement order; this is to allow time for issues such as fuel poverty and the sourcing of coal of a lower environmental standard from Northern Ireland to be addressed.

A number of Government Departments, including the Department of Finance are exploring options for how best to offset the impact of the carbon tax on low-income households. With regard to the sourcing of coal from Northern Ireland, work has already commenced on this matter within the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. In addition, the Department of Environment, my Department and the Revenue Commissioners have met with the Solid Fuel Trade Group in this regard.

State Properties

Thomas Byrne

Question:

118 Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding his interest in the property of a dissolved company which has a burden registered on a property (details supplied); if he will execute a discharge of the said burden; and if he has instructed the Chief State Solicitor in this matter. [21392/10]

The Commissioners of Public Works on behalf of the Minister for Finance are responsible for the management of property under Sections 28, 29, 30 and 31 of the State Property Act; as a result of companies being dissolved either voluntarily or as a result of being struck off the Companies Register, the assets of the company become vested in the Minister for Finance. Following advice from the Commissioners of Public Works in the matter, the Minister for Finance can, if appropriate, waive his interest, in property under Section 28 of the Act. The application to the Minister to waive his interest on this particular case was submitted directly to the Chief State Solicitor's Office. The Chief State Solicitor's Office are currently investigating the matter, and the Commissioners of Public Works await legal advice in this regard.

Tax Yield

Leo Varadkar

Question:

119 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the amount of VAT received from petrol sales for each of the first four months of 2010 and each of the first four months of 2009 in tabular form; the amount of same in respect of diesel sales; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21417/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

120 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the amount of excise received from petrol sales for each of the first four months of 2010 and each of the first four months of 2009 in tabular form; the amount of same in respect of diesel sales; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21418/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 119 and 120 together.

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the data available on the amounts of Excise, exclusive of carbon tax, and VAT generated by clearances in the first 4 months of 2009 and 2010 on Petrol and Auto Diesel is as follows.

Mineral Oil Tax Receipts — exclusive of carbon tax

Petrol

2009

2010

€m

€m

Jan

129.4

107.2

Feb

81.7

77.9

Mar

91.6

89.8

Apr

90.8

85.7

Total

393.5

360.6

Auto Diesel

2009

2010

€m

€m

Jan

104.9

103.4

Feb

75.3

83.8

Mar

86.8

93.8

Apr

91.7

91.1

Total

358.6

372.2

Estimated VAT

Petrol

2009

2010

€m

€m

Jan

43.9

45.8

Feb

29.1

33.2

Mar

33.0

38.9

Apr

33.8

39.1

Total

139.8

157.0

Auto Diesel

2009

2010

€m

€m

Jan

5.0

5.1

Feb

3.6

4.1

Mar

4.0

4.7

Apr

4.0

4.7

Total

16.5

18.6

VAT returns do not require the yield from a particular sector or sub-sector of trade to be identified. The figures provided in this reply for monthly VAT receipts are estimates of the amount of VAT yield that would be generated by the volume of clearances of Petrol and Auto Diesel up to the end of each month. VAT returns can be made monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, half yearly or annually depending on the nature of the registration status of a trader, and this will dictate the point in time when VAT on sales will actually be paid. It should also be noted that the VAT content of purchases of Auto Diesel is a deductible credit for business in the Irish VAT system.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

121 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the amount of carbon tax received from petrol sales for each of the first four months of 2010 and each of the first four months of 2009 in tabular form; the amount of same in respect of diesel sales; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21419/10]

The carbon tax was introduced from midnight, 9 December 2009 in respect of petrol and auto-diesel. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that since its introduction, the total receipts from the carbon tax for the period January to April 2010, in respect of petrol and auto-diesel only, is €53.1 million, i.e. €48.4 million from the carbon charge and an estimated €4.7 million in respect of VAT. It should be noted that the carbon charge in respect of petrol and auto-diesel is payable in the month after it is released for consumption so each of the monthly figures below relate to sales in the previous month.

2010

€m

January

2.5

February

17.3

March

13.4

April

15.2

Total

48.4

Leo Varadkar

Question:

122 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the additional VAT taken in as a result of the increase in the price of petrol and diesel over and above budget day predictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21420/10]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that VAT returns do not require the yield from a particular sector or sub-sector of trade to be identified. The figures provided in this reply for VAT receipts are estimates of the amount of VAT yield that would be generated by the volume of clearances of Auto Diesel and Petrol from January to April 2010. The estimated VAT gain is as follows:

Petrol

2010

€m

Jan

0.7

Feb

0.4

Mar

1.5

Apr

2.6

Total

5.2

Auto Diesel

2010

€m

Jan

0.0

Feb

0.0

Mar

0.1

Apr

0.3

Total

0.5

VAT returns can be made monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, half yearly or annually depending on the nature of the registration status of a trader, and this will dictate the point in time when VAT on sales will actually be paid. It should also be noted that the VAT content of purchases of Auto Diesel is a deductible credit for business in the Irish VAT system.

While the VAT from Petrol and Auto-Diesel increases as the price of the fuels increase, it should however be borne in mind that to the extent that spending in the economy is re-allocated to petrol and other oil products, and away from other VAT liable spending, and to the extent that the overall level of economic activity is reduced by higher oil prices, there may be little or no net gain to the Exchequer.

Banking Sector Regulation

Leo Varadkar

Question:

123 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if he will require that the credit review group to issue monthly reports on the scale of bank lending to small and medium enterprises; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21421/10]

You will be aware that on foot of recapitalisations arising out of NAMA, I am imposing specific lending targets on the main business banks, AIB and Bank of Ireland. They will make available for targeted lending not less than €3 billion each for new or increased credit facilities to SMEs in both 2010 and 2011. The two banks were required to submit SME lending plans both by geography and sector for 2010 and 2011 in light of the €3 billion target. These plans were recently submitted to my Department and they are being reviewed by my officials and Mr. John Trethowan, the Credit Reviewer. Following these reviews and the finalisation of the lending plans, I will decide on the appropriate reporting arrangements.

Semi-State Sector

Leo Varadkar

Question:

124 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance his plans to appoint a bord snip to assess costs and propose savings within the semi-State sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21422/10]

I am as anxious as anyone else to ensure a competitive, efficient semi-state sector. I am not certain that a "Bord Snip" type process would be the most effective way to proceed as the commercial Semi-State Sector for example operates outside the Exchequer and the issue of cost savings is a matter for the management and boards. I have no problem however with Dáil Éireann and its committees probing such matters with State Bodies as I will continue to do with my colleagues.

Tax Code

Leo Varadkar

Question:

125 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance when he intends to apply VAT to services provided by local authorities such as refuse charges; the amount he anticipates he will raise from this in a full year; if he will consider using the money to reduce local authority rates charges to business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21423/10]

Services supplied by State bodies, including local authorities, will become subject to VAT from 1 July 2010. This is as a consequence of the European Court of Justice case C-544/07 against Ireland on 16 July 2009, which ruled that Ireland should amend its VAT legislation to provide that State and public bodies are in general subject to VAT. This case goes back to 2004 when infringement proceedings were taken by the European Commission against Ireland. Given the time that has passed since the Court's Judgement, and since the commencement of the case, it is imperative that the VAT implementation takes place as soon as possible. 1 July 2010 was chosen as the date of implementation of VAT in this regard in order to allow time to process the relevant legislation and for State and public bodies, including local authorities, to prepare for the change to their administrative systems.

With regard to the Exchequer revenue implications of the application of VAT to the activities of public bodies, including local authorities, this will be difficult to estimate, even after the tax has been applied for some time. It is considered that there should be some positive revenue yield for the Exchequer, but, it will be far lower than might be initially envisioned. While yield will accrue from the VAT being applied to services that were up to now exempt, any VAT charged to business customers will be reclaimed by them in the normal manner resulting in a Revenue neutral position in so far as those customers are concerned. Public bodies will now be in a position to claim VAT input credit in respect of VAT paid on the inputs they use in providing their services, which they can not do at present. Consequently, any Exchequer gain from VAT being charged by public bodies will be reduced by VAT on input claims by public bodies and also by the business recipients of public body services.

With regard to the suggestion that VAT revenues generated from local authorities be ring-fenced in order to reduce local authority rates that apply to business, it is the general practice not to ring-fence revenues for specific purposes but rather take an overall view on priorities in the context of expenditure and budgetary decisions which, of course, are dependent on Exchequer revenues.

Tax Collection

Michael Creed

Question:

126 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Finance if he will issue a refund of overpaid taxes in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21427/10]

I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a refund of income tax for 2009 issued to the taxpayer on 14 May 2010.

Banking Sector Regulation

Leo Varadkar

Question:

127 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if a sole trader or small-medium enterprise who has a performing loan may seek a review from the credit review office where a bank uses a standard annual review clause to either increase the margin applicable to the loan over EURIBOR or apply an excessive renewal or annual charge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21440/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

128 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if a sole trader or small-medium enterprise who has an overdraft operating within the approved parameters and reverting regularly to credit may seek a review from the credit review office where a bank uses a standard annual review clause to either increase the margin applicable to the overdraft over EURIBOR or apply an excessive renewal or annual charge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21441/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 127 and 128 together.

A sole trader or SME is entitled to seek a review from the Credit Review Office where they consider that the terms or conditions attached to a credit facility or its price are so onerous as to amount to a constructive refusal on the same basis as when an application for credit is actually refused. This applies regardless of whether they have an existing performing loan or overdraft operating within approved parameters.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

129 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if a sole trader or small-medium enterprise may seek a review from the credit review office where a bank seeks to remove or reduce overdraft facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21442/10]

A sole trader or SME is entitled to seek a review from the Credit Review Office when there is a reduction or removal of an overdraft facility on the same basis as when an application for credit is refused. I would strongly urge businesses to avail of the opportunity for an independent review of decisions to enhance their chances of obtaining credit or retaining existing credit.

Consultancy Contracts

Joan Burton

Question:

130 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the accountancy firms that have been awarded contracts with the National Asset Management Agency since its inception; the value of each of these contracts to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21459/10]

All major contracts awarded by the National Asset Management Agency since its inception, including those for accountancy services, have been fully compliant with standard public procurement procedures and have been awarded through www.etenders.gov.ie, the website for Irish public tenders. These procedures require that the most economically advantageous bid be accepted. The names of the successful service providers are published on the NAMA website at www.nama.ie.

The contractual details of all contracts between NAMA and individual service providers are negotiated on a case by case basis, are commercially sensitive and are confidential. I am advised by NAMA that while NAMA is building up its operational resources, and pending recruitment of the necessary skilled staff by the NTMA, arrangements have also been made to second staff, on a short-term basis, from a number of firms.

Proposed Legislation

Finian McGrath

Question:

131 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will support a submission (details supplied) on the Central Bank Reform Bill 2010. [21479/10]

The submission forwarded by the Deputy refers to amendments to Section 35 of the Credit Union Act 1997 contained in the Central Bank Reform Bill 2010. The submission seeks the deferral of the insertion of the new Sections 35A and 35B, stating that the conditions attached require consultation and much further discussion. I do not agree with this proposition for the following reasons.

Section 35 of the Credit Union Act 1997 imposes limits on credit unions in relation to longer-term lending. The restrictions contained in Section 35 are an important asset and liability instrument which has protected the financial stability of the credit union movement over many years. The matter was considered by my Department following extensive consultation with the two credit union representative bodies — the Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU) and the Credit Union Development Association (CUDA) — and with the Registrar of Credit Unions. I have decided that, in addition to extending from 20% to 30% the proportion of a credit union loan book that may apply to loans over five years, it is necessary now to give the Registrar of Credit Unions powers to require credit unions to have appropriate liquidity, provisioning and accounting requirements in place.

The Registrar of Credit Unions will take a balanced and proportionate approach to the implementation of the new Section 35 requirements and has set out for the credit union representative groups transitional arrangements and clarifications on the implementation approach. These include transitional arrangements for a 15% provisioning requirement up to 30 September 2011, trial periods, exceptions with regard to top-up loans and relaxation of the 100% provisioning requirement in respect of rescheduled loans which have missed two or more payments. The transitional arrangements as proposed by the Registrar will help to ease the position for credit unions in the current financial year and the next financial year ending in September 2011. They will also allow time for credit unions to adjust to the new regime. The effect of the new provisions on credit unions will be closely monitored.

The submission also refers to requirements imposed by the Registrar of Credit Unions in relation to the holding of Regulatory Reserves by credit unions. Reserves enable credit unions to deal with future uncertainties and to act flexibly in adverse economic conditions. This is a separate requirement to the obligation on boards of credit unions to ensure that adequate provisions are made for bad and doubtful loans. I am advised that the Total Regulatory Reserve is comprised of the Statutory Reserve and, where relevant, an amount held in a non-distributable additional regulatory reserve account. A minimum of 8 per cent of total assets must be held in the Statutory Reserve and the remaining 2 per cent may be held in the Statutory Reserve or additional regulatory reserve account. Financial institutions, including credit unions, are required to hold minimum levels of regulatory reserves as well as making adequate provisions for bad and doubtful debts. The economic environment in which we now operate places increased emphasis on the maintenance of adequate reserves and credit unions are expected to operate with a level of reserves above the minimum regulatory requirement and to comply with the requirements issued by the Registrar of Credit Unions.

As I indicated during the second stage debate on the Central Bank Reform Bill 2010, there is a balance to be struck between meeting members' needs to reschedule loans and ensuring the stability of the credit union sector overall. It is in the interests of every credit union in the country that the stability of the sector is safeguarded. The proposals being brought forward in connection with the Bill will achieve this fundamental aim.

Tax Collection

Pat Breen

Question:

132 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Finance, further to Parliamentary Question No. 183 of 3 February 2010, the position regarding an application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21488/10]

I understand from the Chief State Solicitor that he has not yet applied to the High Court for a grant of Letters of Administration in this case but expects to do so shortly. As noted in my previous reply, the applicant's case for a waiver of the State's interest in the estate under Section 73 of the Succession Act, 1965 will then be considered by the Chief State Solicitor and by the Attorney General who will make a recommendation to me in the matter.

Departmental Programmes

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

133 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the number of employers who have availed of the bike to work scheme on a county basis; the number of employees who have benefitted from the scheme; the cost of the scheme to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21492/10]

The cycle to work scheme came into operation on 1 January 2009. With a view to keeping the scheme simple and reducing administration on the part of employers, there is no notification procedure for employers involved. Accordingly, the Revenue Commissioners do not have statistics on the uptake of the scheme by employers or employees. The scheme operates on a self-administration basis, and relief is automatically available provided the employer is satisfied that the conditions of their particular scheme meet the requirements of the legislation.

The purchase of bicycles and associated safety equipment by employers for employees or directors is subject to the normal Revenue audit procedure with the normal obligations on employers to maintain records (e.g. delivery dockets, invoices, payments details, etc.). The employer is also obliged to keep all salary sacrifice agreements entered into between the employer and employees/ directors, together with all signed statements from employees/directors regarding use of the bicycles and safety equipment. It was estimated at the time of the introduction of the scheme that approximately 7,000 employees would avail of it over the first five year period of its operation (the exemption may apply only once in any five year period in respect of any employee).

Tax Collection

Brian O'Shea

Question:

134 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance his views on the mortgage interest relief situation of a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21519/10]

Section 5 of the Finance Act 2009 was amended whereby the level of tax relief investors can claim on the interest for mortgages and loans on residential rental properties was reduced to 75% of the interest accrued from 7th April 2009. This measure was introduced at a time when mortgage interest rates were at historical lows and the repayment burden on investors had been reduced significantly. The fact that rents are falling, after a number of years of strong growth was taken into consideration in framing the supplementary Budget 2009 and on this basis it was decided to reduce rather than abolish this relief. It should be borne in mind that ordinary workers on relatively modest incomes are being asked to make additional contributions to help with the recovery in public finances and it is felt that it is fair and equitable that residential investors contribute a proportionate share of the burden of adjustment needed in this economy.

Under the provisions of the Tax Acts, a person in receipt of rental income is assessed to income tax on the net amount of the rents received (i.e. the gross rents less allowable expenses incurred in earning those rents). In computing the net amount of the rents received, only those deductions that are specified in section 97(2) of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 are allowable. The main deductible expenses are: Any rent payable by the landlord in the case of a sub-lease; The cost to the landlord of any goods provided or services rendered to a tenant; The cost of maintenance, repairs, insurance and management of the property; Interest on borrowed money used to purchase, improve or repair the property; and Payment of local authority rates in the case of rateable properties used for commercial purposes.

As payment of the new local authority charge for residential properties is not included on the list of allowable deductions, it is not an allowable expense in computing taxable rental income. As is normal practice the tax treatment of interest payments on loans for rented residential property together with all other taxation issues will be given due consideration in the context of ongoing budgetary and taxation policy.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

135 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance, further to Parliamentary Question No. 51 of 28 January 2010, the reason the mortgage holder’s full entitlement was reinstated; the basis on which the figures were arrived at; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21522/10]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that initially the person concerned took out a new mortgage in 2003. A further new mortgage was taken out in 2007. Immediately prior to the 2010 Finance Act, mortgage interest relief was only available for a maximum of seven tax years. On that basis, the person concerned ceased to be granted mortgage interest tax relief at the end of 2009, covering the seven tax years 2003-2009 inclusive. When the precise status of the 2007 mortgage was clarified by Revenue in January 2010, following contact with the person concerned, Revenue determined that relief was due on that mortgage. It was on that basis therefore, that the entitlement was reinstated by Revenue.

Tax Code

Seymour Crawford

Question:

136 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that significant supplies of plastic film used for the wrapping of baled silage are being sold from Northern Ireland with no VAT being charged on this product; if his further attention has been drawn to the fact that legitimate farm suppliers have to charge a levy towards the recycling of the used plastic yet those who buy from the unauthorised sales persons have their used plastic collected without a problem; the amount of tax and levies that have been lost in this process over the past two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21551/10]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the VAT rules for the sale of goods (including silage wrap) from one Member State to another are as follows. Sales between a VAT registered business in Northern Ireland and another VAT registered business (including a farmer) in this State are zero rated in Northern Ireland and the purchaser must self-account to Revenue in this State for VAT on the transaction at 21%. Sales between a VAT registered business in Northern Ireland and a consumer in the State are subject to VAT (at the UK standard VAT rate of 17.5%) in Northern Ireland if the consumer in this State is not registered for VAT. It is therefore legitimate for farmers to purchase their goods under either of these circumstances in Northern Ireland, subject to the VAT registration thresholds and subject to compliance by them with the self-accounting rules if they are VAT registered.

The Deputy has not provided sufficient information to enable Revenue to establish if a breach of VAT legislation has occurred. From enquiries to date, Revenue is not aware of VAT problems concerning silage wrap being sold from Northern Ireland. If the Deputy has more specific information he might provide that information to Revenue so that the matter can be investigated.

With regard to the levy on plastic, I am informed by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government that under the Waste Management (Farm Plastics) Regulations 2001, a wide range of obligations are imposed on both producers (i.e. manufacturers and importers) and suppliers of farm plastics (i.e. silage bale wrap and sheeting) requiring them to collect and recover such plastics at end-of-life. As an alternative to operators self-complying in this regard, both producers and suppliers of farm plastics may contribute to, and participate in, compliance schemes established for the recovery of farm plastics waste.

The Irish Farm Films Producers Group (IFFPG) — which comprises membership of film manufacturers, importers and suppliers — is a not-for-profit organisation and is at present the sole approved body in Ireland for the purposes of operating a compliance scheme for the recovery of farm plastics. Under the terms of its approval, the IFFPG is required to meet specified targets equating to the recovery of 60% of all farm plastics placed on the market in 2009 and in each year thereafter. Almost 12,500 tonnes of farm plastics were collected by the IFFPG in 2008 for the purpose of recycling, representing a national recovery rate of over 74% of farm plastics placed on the Irish market in that year.

The scheme funds its activities by means of the imposition on producer members of an Environmental Protection Contribution (EPC) levy of €127 per tonne of farm plastics placed on the Irish market. These levies are included in the sale price of the product and are passed through each step in the trading chain, down ultimately to the individual farmer. The EPC levies collected are transferred by producers to the IFFPG for the purpose of funding authorised collection agents on a nationwide basis to collect waste silage / bale wrap, before transporting it to recycling facilities both at home and abroad for reprocessing. This is an essential function which ensures that this product is, as far as possible, disposed of in a manner which is not harmful to the environment.

In addition, the levy income is supplemented by a differential weight-based collection fee applied on the collection of farm plastics from both individual farmyards and designated collection points of which there were approximately 140 operating nationally in 2009. A farmer who cannot demonstrate that he has sourced farm plastic from a legitimate source must pay a higher collection fee. Neither the levy nor the collection fees are prescribed in the regulations, they are set by the Board of the IFFPG at a level that ensures their operating costs are met having regard to the producer responsibility obligations on their members.

Departmental Agencies

John O'Mahony

Question:

137 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Finance the agencies or bodies to which his Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which his Department is responsible in respect of his policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21753/10]

The following Offices and Bodies are under the aegis of the Department of Finance but are funded from their own Votes and I am not administratively responsible for them.

Vote

Presidents Establishment

1

Comptroller and Auditor General

5

Superannuation and Retired Allowances

7

Appeal Commissioners

8

Revenue Commissioners

9

Office of Public Works

10

State Laboratory

11

Secret Service

12

Valuation Office

15

Public Appointments Service

16

Commission for Public Service Appointments

17

Ombudsman

18

The following table sets out the Bodies or Agencies that are funded or co-funded from Vote 6 — Office of the Minister for Finance together with the amount of funding provided in the years 2007-2010.

2007

2008

2009

2010

€’000

€’000

€’000

€’000

Special EU Programmes Body

1,320

1,103

1,200

1,195 (est)

Credit Union Advisory Committee

38

37

30

46

Civil Service Adjudicator*

44

57

68

70

Civil Service Arbitration Board*

Civil Service Disciplinary Code of Appeals Board*

Independent Mediation Officer under the Civil Service Grievance Procedure*

Committee for Performance Awards

37

60

46

1

Public Service Benchmarking Body

2,013

42

33

1

Review Body on Higher Remuneration in the Public Sector

285

189

268

60

Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal

286

320

371

350

Commission on Taxation

0

313

520

0

Interim Civil Service Childcare Agency

1,612

25

13

25

*All funded from the Civil Service Arbitration and Appeals Procedure Subhead in the Finance Vote. The total figure covers funding to all of these bodies.

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

138 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Finance the amount of unspent money by his Department each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21782/10]

The attached table sets out details of the Budget Estimates, by Subhead, for the years 2007-2010. The Subheads reflect the particular projects (programmes) that fall within the ambit of my Vote in each year. The table also sets out the amounts unspent and surrendered in each of the years in question. The Deputy should note that the total unspent in 2007 was €4.687m but, in accordance with Capital Carryover rules, €0.800m of this was carried forward to 2008 and only €3.887m was surrendered to the Exchequer.

Vote 6 Estimate for the years:

2007

2008

2009

2010

€’000

€’000

€’000

€’000

Description

Provision

Provision

Provision

Provision

SALARIES, WAGES AND ALLOWANCES

38,600

40,500

40,230

36,211

TRAVEL AND SUBSISTENCE

1,250

1,000

650

450

INCIDENTAL EXPENSES

2,100

2,000

1,550

1,100

POSTAL AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

1,400

1,500

1,325

1,017

OFFICE MACHINERY AND OTHER OFFICE SUPPLIES

3,000

3,200

2,235

1,800

OFFICE PREMISES EXPENSES

1,360

2,150

1,100

850

CONSULTANCY SERVICES

90

20

20

5

VALUE FOR MONEY AND POLICY REVIEWS

1,050

1,400

890

750

Admin

48,850

51,770

48,000

42,183

EXPENSES ARISING FROM THE SALE OF ACC BANK

3,606

5

ESRI

3,300

5,500

3,300

3,075

IPA

3,500

3,900

3,700

3,400

OSI

6,000

GAELEAGRAS NA SEIRBHÍSE POIBLÍ

440

460

450

300

CIVIL SERVICE ARBITRATION AND APPEALS

70

70

70

70

REVIEW BODY ON HIGHER REMUNERATION IN THE PS

300

175

55

60

PUBLIC SERVICE BENCHMARKING BODY

1,800

100

5

1

COMMITTEE FOR PERFORMANCE AWARDS

60

60

60

1

CMOD

2,550

10,730

3,232

2,035

STRUCTURAL FUNDS TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

2,000

2,100

1,515

1,195

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE COSTS OF REGIONAL ASSEMBLIES

1,450

1,500

1,400

930

COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS

380

850

1,190

405

COMMITTEES AND SPECIAL INQUIRIES

2,000

PAYMENTS TO THE PROMOTERS OF CERTAIN CHARITABLE LOTTERIES

8,618

8,618

8,618

8,618

CHANGE MANAGEMENT FUND

1,970

1,500

1,000

1,500

PEACE PROGRAMME/NORTHERN IRELAND ITERREG

13,310

12,000

2,530

4,395

SPECIAL EU PROGRAMMES BODY

1,500

1,835

1,565

1,195

IRELAND/WALES AND TRANSNATIONAL INTERREG

350

300

550

500

CIVIL SERVICE CHILDCARE INITIATIVE

2,200

2,237

25

25

PROCUREMENT MANAGEMENT REFORM

1,300

1,500

800

350

CONSULTANCY SERVICES

530

500

2,300

4,742

Programmes

55,234

53,940

32,365

34,797

Gross Total

104,084

105,710

80,365

76,980

APPROPRIATIONS-IN-AID

6,583

8,550

12,010

6,822

Net Total

97,501

97,160

68,355

70,158

SAVINGS SURRENDERED

3,887

10,012

3,181

N/a

Provisional

Subhead

Description

Provision

Outturn

Variance

A.1.

SALARIES, WAGES AND ALLOWANCES

38,600

38,896

296

A.2.

TRAVEL AND SUBSISTENCE

1,250

960

-290

A.3.

INCIDENTAL EXPENSES

2,100

1,927

-173

A.4.

POSTAL AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

1,400

1,413

13

A.5.

OFFICE MACHINERY AND OTHER OFFICE SUPPLIES

3,000

2,849

-151

A.6.

OFFICE PREMISES EXPENSES

1,360

1,178

-182

A.7.

CONSULTANCY SERVICES

90

65

-25

A.8.

VALUE FOR MONEY AND POLICY REVIEWS

1,050

804

-246

Admin

48,850

48,092

-758

B

EXPENSES ARISING FROM THE SALE OF ACC BANK

3,606

3,639

33

C

ESRI

3,300

3,300

D

IPA

3,500

3,500

E

OSI

6,000

5,250

-750

F

GAELEAGRAS NA SEIRBHÍSE POIBLÍ

440

432

-8

G

CIVIL SERVICE ARBITRATION AND APPEALS

70

46

-24

H1

REVIEW BODY ON HIGHER REMUNERATION IN THE PS

300

281

-19

H2

PUBLIC SERVICE BENCHMARKING BODY

1,800

2,013

213

H3

COMMITTEE FOR PERFORMANCE AWARDS

60

37

-23

I

CMOD

2,550

2,403

-147

J1

STRUCTURAL FUNDS TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

2,000

1,574

-426

J2

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE COSTS OF REGIONAL ASSEMBLIES

1,450

1,390

-60

K

COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS

380

323

-57

L

PAYMENTS TO THE PROMOTERS OF CERTAIN CHARITABLE LOTTERIES

8,618

8,618

M

CHANGE MANAGEMENT FUND

1,970

1,408

-562

N1

PEACE PROGRAMME/NORTHERN IRELAND ITERREG

13,310

12,800

-510

N2

SPECIAL EU PROGRAMMES BODY

1,500

1,320

-180

O

IRELAND/WALES AND TRANSNATIONAL INTERREG

350

349

-1

P

CIVIL SERVICE CHILDCARE INITIATIVE

2,200

1,886

-314

Q

PROCUREMENT MANAGEMENT REFORM

1,300

886

-414

R

CONSULTANCY SERVICES

530

259

-271

Programmes

55,234

51,714

-3,520

Gross Total

104,084

99,806

-4,278

S

APPROPRIATIONS-IN-AID

6,583

6,992

409

Net Total

97,501

92,814

-4,687

Subhead

Description

Provision

Outturn

Variance

A.1.

SALARIES, WAGES AND ALLOWANCES

40,500

40,433

-67

A.2.

TRAVEL AND SUBSISTENCE

1,000

693

-307

A.3.

INCIDENTAL EXPENSES

2,000

1,578

-422

A.4.

POSTAL AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

1,500

1,411

-89

A.5.

OFFICE MACHINERY AND OTHER OFFICE SUPPLIES

3,200

2,379

-821

A.6.

OFFICE PREMISES EXPENSES

2,150

1,972

-178

A.7.

CONSULTANCY SERVICES

20

52

32

A.8.

VALUE FOR MONEY AND POLICY REVIEWS

1,400

960

-440

Admin

51,770

49,478

-2,292

B

EXPENSES ARISING FROM THE SALE OF ACC BANK

5

-5

C

ESRI

5,500

5,500

D

IPA

3,900

3,900

E

GAELEAGRAS NA SEIRBHÍSE POIBLÍ

460

413

-47

F

CIVIL SERVICE ARBITRATION AND APPEALS

70

58

-12

G1

REVIEW BODY ON HIGHER REMUNERATION IN THE PS

175

191

16

G2

PUBLIC SERVICE BENCHMARKING BODY

100

44

-56

G3

COMMITTEE FOR PERFORMANCE AWARDS

60

61

1

H

CMOD

10,730

6,122

-4,608

I1

STRUCTURAL FUNDS TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

2,100

1,409

-691

I2

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE COSTS OF REGIONAL ASSEMBLIES

1,500

1,356

-144

J

COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS

850

670

-180

K

PAYMENTS TO THE PROMOTERS OF CERTAIN CHARITABLE LOTTERIES

8,618

8,618

L

CHANGE MANAGEMENT FUND

1,500

1,072

-428

M

PEACE PROGRAMME/NORTHERN IRELAND INTERREG

12,000

10,641

-1,359

N1

SPECIAL EU PROGRAMMES BODY

1,835

1,102

-733

N2

IRELAND/WALES AND TRANSNATIONAL INTERREG

300

344

44

O

CIVIL SERVICE CHILDCARE INITIATIVE

2,237

1,560

-677

P

PROCUREMENT MANAGEMENT REFORM

1,500

872

-628

Q

CONSULTANCY SERVICES

500

1,945

1,445

Programmes

53,940

45,878

-8,062

Gross Total

105,710

95,356

-10,354

R

APPROPRIATIONS-IN-AID

8,550

8,208

-342

Net Total

97,160

87,148

-10,012

Subhead

Description

Provision

Prov. Outturn

Variance

A.1.

SALARIES, WAGES AND ALLOWANCES

40,230

39,700

-530

A.2.

TRAVEL AND SUBSISTENCE

650

355

-295

A.3.

INCIDENTAL EXPENSES

1,550

1,007

-543

A.4.

POSTAL AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

1,325

966

-359

A.5.

OFFICE MACHINERY AND OTHER OFFICE SUPPLIES

2,235

1,659

-576

A.6.

OFFICE PREMISES EXPENSES

1,100

810

-290

A.7.

CONSULTANCY SERVICES

20

-20

A.8.

VALUE FOR MONEY AND POLICY REVIEWS

890

817

-73

Admin

48,000

45,314

-2,686

B

ESRI

3,300

3,300

C

IPA

3,700

3,700

D

GAELEAGRAS NA SEIRBHÍSE POIBLÍ

450

410

-40

E

CIVIL SERVICE ARBITRATION AND APPEALS

70

68

-2

F1

REVIEW BODY ON HIGHER REMUNERATION IN THE PS

55

268

213

F2

PUBLIC SERVICE BENCHMARKING BODY

5

33

28

F3

COMMITTEE FOR PERFORMANCE AWARDS

60

46

-14

G

CMOD

3,232

1,655

-1,577

H1

STRUCTURAL FUNDS TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

1,515

969

-546

H2

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE COSTS OF REGIONAL ASSEMBLIES

1,400

1,023

-377

I

COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS

1,190

974

-216

J

PAYMENTS TO THE PROMOTERS OF CERTAIN CHARITABLE LOTTERIES

8,618

8,618

K

CHANGE MANAGEMENT FUND

1,000

402

7,618

L1

PEACE PROGRAMME/NORTHERN IRELAND ITERREG

2,530

1,452

-2,128

L2

SPECIAL EU PROGRAMMES BODY

1,565

1,200

-113

M

IRELAND/WALES AND TRANSNATIONAL INTERREG

550

507

650

N

CIVIL SERVICE CHILDCARE INITIATIVE

25

13

482

O

PROCUREMENT MANAGEMENT REFORM

800

208

-787

P

CONSULTANCY SERVICES

2,300

6,094

-2,092

Programmes

32,365

30,940

-1,425

Gross Total

80,365

76,254

-4,111

R

APPROPRIATIONS-IN-AID

12,010

11,059

-951

Net Total

68,355

65,195

-3,160

Subhead

Description

Provision

A.1.

SALARIES, WAGES AND ALLOWANCES

36,211

A.2.

TRAVEL AND SUBSISTENCE

450

A.3.

INCIDENTAL EXPENSES

1,100

A.4.

POSTAL AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

1,017

A.5.

OFFICE MACHINERY AND OTHER OFFICE SUPPLIES

1,800

A.6.

OFFICE PREMISES EXPENSES

850

A.7.

CONSULTANCY SERVICES

5

A.8.

VALUE FOR MONEY AND POLICY REVIEWS

750

Admin

42,183

B

ESRI

3,075

C

IPA

3,400

D

GAELEAGRAS NA SEIRBHÍSE POIBLÍ

300

E

CIVIL SERVICE ARBITRATION AND APPEALS

70

F1

REVIEW BODY ON HIGHER REMUNERATION IN THE PS

60

F2

PUBLIC SERVICE BENCHMARKING BODY

1

F3

COMMITTEE FOR PERFORMANCE AWARDS

1

G

CMOD

2,035

H1

STRUCTURAL FUNDS TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

1,195

H2

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE COSTS OF REGIONAL ASSEMBLIES

930

II

COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS

405

I2

CMOMMISSIONS AND SPECIAL INQUIRIES

2,000

J

PAYMENTS TO THE PROMOTERS OF CERTAIN CHARITABLE LOTTERIES

8,618

K

CHANGE MANAGEMENT FUND

1,500

L

PEACE PROGRAMME/NORTHERN IRELAND INTERREG

4,395

M

SPECIAL EU PROGRAMMES BODY

1,195

N1

IRELAND/WALES AND TRANSNATIONAL INTERREG

500

N2

CIVIL SERVICE CHILDCARE INITIATIVE

25

O

PROCUREMENT MANAGEMENT REFORM

350

P

CONSULTANCY SERVICES

4,742

Programmes

34,797

Gross Total

76,980

Q

APPROPRIATIONS-IN-AID

6,822

Net Total

70,158

Public Sector Recruitment

Leo Varadkar

Question:

139 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the number of exemptions requested by Departments and or State agencies to the current moratorium on recruitment and promotion; if he will provide the full details in each such case including the requesting body; the reasons for the request; the number of staff requested and to provide in detail, his response to each such request. [21792/10]

The moratorium on recruitment and promotion was introduced by the Government at the end of March 2009. The moratorium allows for certain general exemptions in the Education and Health Sectors for the filling of certain key posts as well as for the Local Authorities in relation to fire, health and safety, Interreg and beach warden posts. Information in relation to the posts covered by these general exemptions can be sought from the relevant Ministers.

Departments have been implementing the moratorium in respect of themselves and the bodies under their aegis. Where a Department feels that a post should be filled, it requires the sanction of the Minister for Finance for an exception to the moratorium. Requests for exceptions are not made in respect of every vacancy. Unless otherwise stated in tables 2 and 3 below, the information covers the period up to the end of April 2010.

Civil Service

In the case of the civil service approximately 2,300 staff have left since the introduction of the moratorium. Approval has been given to fill some 300 posts by recruitment and some 470 posts by way of redeployment or promotion. This has resulted in a net reduction of 2,000 posts.

Separate from the above, in an effort to meet the priority needs of the Department of Social Protection arising from increases in the Live Register, a temporary levy has been applied to Government Departments in order to source some 550 posts for that Department — this is being achieved on a numbers and cost neutral basis. In addition sanction has also been given for some 276 temporary posts for Census 2011 and for various temporary ‘summer relief' type posts.

It should be noted that in accordance with the terms of the moratorium, exemptions can only be sought by Government Departments and Offices after they had exhausted all internal possibilities of redeploying staff, reorganising work and so on. In the majority of cases sanctions have been given for the filling of posts by redeployment or promotion which would not lead to an overall increase in numbers serving (since consequential vacancies are not generally filled unless specifically sanctioned.) As the attached table shows some 770 posts were sanctioned to be filled of which some 300 are likely to be filled by external recruitment, leading to a net reduction of some 2,000 in the civil service.

Public Service

My Department has received 205 requests for 1,668 exceptions (WTEs) to the moratorium in the Public Service. 147 requests have been sanctioned in full or in part in respect of 885 posts. 25 requests have been refused and a decision is pending in relation to 33 requests. Summary information by Department is set out in table 1.

In the context of the Draft Public Service Agreement 2010-2014, the Government has clarified that the application of the moratorium on recruitment and promotion will be kept under review and will be revisited in each sector as the staffing levels specified (or to be specified) in the Employment Control Framework (ECF) for the sectors are achieved. ECFs for the various Vote Groups are generally in the process of being finalised at present.

Table 1: Public Service

Public Service by Vote

No. of requests

Requests granted

Requests refused

Decision pending

No. of posts sought

No. of posts granted

Enterprise, Trade & Employment

35

26

5

4

131.0

67.0

Social & Family Affairs

10

10

0

0

13.3

13.3

Defence

7

0

0

7

536.0

214.0

Arts, Sports & Tourism

17

11

6

0

18.0

12.0

Health

32

21

0

11

117.6

103.0

Transport

5

3

1

1

37.0

11.0

Agriculture, Food & Fisheries

8

4

4

0

66.0

50.0

Communications, Energy & Natural Resources

30

27

0

3

64.0

61.0

Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs

0

0

0

0

0.0

0.0

Education

32

28

3

1

341.5

226.5

Justice, Equality & Law Reform

10

8

0

2

292.0

118.0

Environment, Heritage & Local Government

19

9

6

4

51.5

9.0

Foreign Affairs

0

0

0

0

0.0

0.0

Finance

0

0

0

0

0.0

0.0

Taoiseach’s

0

0

0

0

0.0

0.0

205

147

25

33

1,667.9

884.8

Table 3: Requests for Exceptions in the Public Service

Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

DETE — Enterprise Ireland

Retirement

Manager

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

May-09

Retirement

2

DETE — Enterprise Ireland

Graduate

Graduate

16

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

16

May-09

16 graduate posts

3

DETE — Roscommon CEB

Vacancy

CEO

1

No

0

May-09

Vacancy

4

DETE Cork CEB

Replacing maternity leave

Administrative Officer

1

No

0

Jun-09

Replacing maternity leave

5

DETE — FAS DG

Statutory post

DG

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Jun-09

Statutory post

6

DETE -NCA Registrar

No vacancy

AP-HAD

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Jun-09

Registrar

7

DETE — Enterprise Ireland

Rollover of contract posts for overseas (4 sanctioned)

Various

53

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

4

Jun-09

Rollover of contract posts for overseas (4 sanctioned)

8

DETE — PIAB

Renewal of contract posts (5 sanctioned)

CO

6

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

5

Jul-09

Renewal of contract posts (5 sanctioned)

9

DETE — NCA student

Student

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Jun-09

Student

10

DETE — NCA

Retirement — Head of Corporate Services (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

AP — STANDARD

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Aug-09

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

11

DETE — NCA

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

AP — STANDARD

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Aug-09

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

12

DETE — NCA

Retirement — Commercial Practises Division (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

HEO (x5)

5

Yes — on a permanent basis

5

Aug-09

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

13

DETE — NCA

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

EO (X3)

3

Yes — on a permanent basis

3

Aug-09

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

14

DETE — NCA

CO (X2)

2

Yes — on a permanent basis

2

Aug-09

15

DETE — IAASA

Vacancy

Accountant

1

No

0

Aug-09

Vacancy

16

DETE — FAS

Decision of Rights Commissioner

Training Instructor

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Sep-09

Decision of rights Commissioner

17

DETE — Interreg — Tradelinks 2 project

new project

Project Manager

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Sep-09

new project

18

DETE — Interreg — Tradelinks 2 project

new project

Financial Administrator

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Sep-09

new project

19

DETE — Interreg — Tradelinks 2 project

new project

4 Regional Coordinators

4

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

4

Sep-09

new project

20

DETE — Interreg — Tradelinks 2 project

new project

4 Support Co-ordinators

4

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

4

Sep-09

new project

21

DETE — Competition Authority

Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement in the Public Service

Case Officer

1

No

0

Oct-09

Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement in the Public Service

22

DETE — FÁS

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

ADG — Finance & IT

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Oct-09

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

23

DETE — Forfas

New project — Self Financing — Manager of European Space Research Office

Manager

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Dec-09

New project — Self Financing

24

DETE — PIAB

Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement in the Public Service

Legal Services Manager

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Jan-10

Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement in the Public Service

25

DETE- Enterprise Ireland

Temporary Overseas Contract posts

Contract Posts (Overseas Jan-Mar 10) — Various Grades

2

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

2

Feb-10

Temporary Overseas Contract posts

26

DETE — Enterprise Ireland

Support for Credit Review

CO

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Mar-10

Support for Credit Review

27

DETE — Competition Authority

Request under consideration

Board Members 2

2

Request under consideration

0

Mar-10

Request under consideration

28

DETE — Competition Authority

Statutory post

Chairperson of Board

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Mar-10

Statutory post

29

DETE — SFI

City of Science Project

Project Manager

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Mar-10

City of Science Project

30

DETE — SFI

City of Science Project

CO

1

No

0

May-10

PA for Dublin City of Science

31

DETE — FAS

Request under consideration

4

Request under consideration

0

Mar-10

Request under consideration

32

DETE — NSAI

Ongoing contracts

Various

4

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

4

Apr-10

Ongoing contracts

33

DETE — NCA

3 Student posts

3

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

3

May-10

34

DETI — Forfas

Request under consideration

PO

1

Request under consideration

0

Request under consideration

35

DETI — Competition Authority

Request under consideration

CO

2

Request under consideration

0

May-10

Request under consideration

Department of Social and Family Affairs

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

Family Support Agency

To cover Term-time vacancies in front line mediation service — Portlaoise + Sligo

1

Yes

1

2

Family Support Agency

To cover Term-time vacancies in front line mediation service — Raheny + Wexford

0.8

Yes

0.8

3

Family Support Agency

Temporary appointment due to end June 2009 — Castlebar FMS office

0.5

Yes

0.5

4

Family Support Agency

Temporary appointment due to end June 2009 — Letterkenny office

0.4

Yes

0.4

5

Family Support Agency

Supervision + Management of Mediation Service in Southern and Westerns Regions — temporary appointment due to end June 09

1.6

Yes

1.6

6

Family Support Agency

Supervision + Management of Mediation Service in Southern and Westerns Regions — temporary appointment due to end January 10

1.6

Yes

1.6

7

Family Support Agency

To cover Shorter Working Year Scheme vacancies in front line mediation service — Letterkenny, Portlaoise, Sligo, Raheny, Athlone, Wexford & HQ

4.5

Yes

4.5

8

Family Support Agency

Temporary appointment due to end June 2010 — Castlebar FMS office

0.5

Yes

0.5

9

Family Support Agency

Temporary appointment due to end June 2010 — Letterkenny office

0.4

Yes

0.4

10

Citizens Information Board

Temporary ICT contracts due to end March 2010 — Dublin HQ

2

Yes

2

Department of Defence

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

Defence Forces

To retain the capacity of the organisation to operate effectively across all roles while contributing to the necessary public service economies

Cadets and army/naval service recruits. Promotion across a range of ranks. Acting up appointments for overseas deployment.

529

Yes

207

July 2009 and November 2009

Recruitment of 42 cadets and promotions across a range of ranks. 100 acting up appointments.

2

Defence Forces

Retirement of Military Judge which is a statutory post

Colonel

1

Yes

1

April 2010

Statutory post

3

Defence Forces

Retirement of Director of Military Prosecutions which is a statutory post

Colonel

1

Yes

1

June 2009

Statutory post

4

Defence Forces

Civilian employees. Temporary post and extension of contract.

Pharmacist

2

Yes

2

July 2009

5

Defence Forces

Civilian employee contract extension.

Social Worker

1

Yes

1

July 2009

6

Defence Forces

Civilian Employee. Management of provision of electrical services.

Foreman

1

Yes

1

7

Defence Forces

Civilian employee to assist in the re-fit of Naval ships.

Welder

1

Yes

1

April 2010

Department of Arts, Sports and Tourism

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

National Library of Ireland

To fill Director post

Director

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

18/12/09

Statutory position

2

National Library of Ireland

2 vacancies due to retirement and internal promotion

Keeper, Asst Keeper

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

22/9/09

Due to the specialised nature of the work of the Library

3

Irish Sports Council

To fill Director post

CEO

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

14/5/09

Statutory position

4

Arts Council

To fill Director post

Director

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

20/8/09

Statutory position

5

Failte Ireland

temporary posts

Principal Officer (temporary)

1

4. Application was refused

0

6

Failte Ireland

temporary posts

Principal Officer (temporary)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

13/1/10

Payment of acting up allowance paid temporarily due to maternity leave

7

Failte Ireland

E Business manager

Assistant Principal

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

13/1/10

Post filled as a necessity for the development of the Tourism Sector

8

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

IT Manager

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

19/11/09

Key post for the successful running of the National Concert Hall

9

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Financial Accountant

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

19/11/09

Key post for the successful running of the National Concert Hall

10

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Learn & Explore Administrative Assistant

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

19/11/09

Key post for the successful running of the National Concert Hall

11

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Graphic Designer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

19/11/09

Key post for the successful running of the National Concert Hall

Department of Arts, Sports and Tourism —continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

12

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

On line Marketing Executive

1

4. Application was refused

0

13

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Lighting Technician/stage hand

1

4. Application was refused

0

14

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Box Office Cashier Supervisor

1

4. Application was refused

0

15

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Operations Assistant Manager

1

4. Application was refused

0

16

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Own Promotions Executive

1

4. Application was refused

0

17

Chester Beatty Library

To fill Director post

PO 1

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

29/3/10

Key post

Department of Health and Children

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

HSE

Front line post

Senior Locum

0.6

3. No decision to date

0

Further info awaited

2

Galway University Hospital

Critical management post

General Manager

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

17/06/2009

3

HIQA

Level of expenditure on external advice

Legal Advisor (AP1)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

31/07/2009

4

HIQA

Operational reasons

Regional Operations Manager (PO)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

31/07/2009

5

HIQA

Value for money

Health Technology Assessment — AP1

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

31/07/2009

6

HIQA

Value for Money

HTA — Engineer Grade I

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

31/07/2009

7

HIQA

Value for Money

HTA — Engineer Grade III

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

31/07/2009

8

HSE

New HSE structure

Regional Operation Director (Assist Nat,. Dir)

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

07/07/2009

9

HSE

New HSE structure

Care Group (Assistant National Director)

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

07/07/2009

10

Mental Health Commission

Front line post

Consultant Psychiatrist

5

1. Yes, application was approved

5

31/07/2009

11

Mental Health Commission

Front line post

Assistant Inspector (Occupational Therapist)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

31/07/2009

Department of Health and Children —continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

12

Mental Health Commission

Service reasons

Staff Officer (Temp Contract Renewal)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

31/07/2009

13

National Treatment Purchase Fund

Fair Deal requirements

EO / HEO

6

1. Yes, application was approved

6

31/07/2009

14

Central Mental Hospital

Front line post

Mental Health Nurses

23

1. Yes, application was approved

23

31/08/2009

15

St Loman’s Hospital

Front line post

Mental Health Nurses

36

1. Yes, application was approved

36

31/08/2009

16

Temple Street Hospital

Critical nursing management post

Director of Nursing

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

20/10/2009

17

Galway University Hospital

Key post for flu pandemic

Chief Medical Scientist

1

3. No decision to date

0

Further info awaited

18

HSE

Front line post

General Dental Surgeon

3

1. Yes, application was approved

2

25/11/2009

Sanction was only given for two of the three posts

19

HSE

Front line post

Principal Environmental Health Officers

2

3. No decision to date

0

Further info awaited

20

HSE

Front line post

Fire Prevention Officer

1

3. No decision to date

0

Further info awaited

21

HSE

Front line post

Clinical Perfusionist Post

1

3. No decision to date

0

Further info awaited

22

Children’s Hospital, Crumlin

Front line post

Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) Nurses

5

1. Yes, application was approved

5

8/12/1009

The filling of these posts was to be met through redeployment first, and where this was not possible, suppression

Department of Health and Children —continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

23

Temple Street Hospital

Front line post

Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) Nurses

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

8/12/1009

The filling of these posts was to be met through redeployment first, and where this was not possible, suppression

24

HSE

Development post for Primary Care Teams

Senior Dietician (Sligo/Leitrim/Cavan)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

18/01/2010

25

HSE — St. James, Dublin

Critical maintenance post

Maintenance Manager

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

18/01/2010

26

HSE — St. Lukes Kilkenny

Front line post

Clinical Nurse Manager II

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

18/01/2010

27

An Bord Altranais

Front line post

Director of Operations

1

3. No decision to date

0

28

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland

Front line post

Pharmacist Chief II

1

3. No decision to date

0

29

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland

Front line post

Senior Pharmacist

3

3. No decision to date

0

30

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland

Front line post

Grade IV (Inspection & Enforcement Unit)

1

3. No decision to date

0

31

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland

Front line post

Solicitor — Grade VIII

1

3. No decision to date

0

32

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland

Front line post

Head of Registration — Grade VII

1

3. No decision to date

0

Note: Includes HSE exemptions sought between May 2009 and January 2010. Under the Employment Control Framework 2010-2012, HSE exceptions under the moratorium under the moratorium are at the discretion of the HSE HR National Director.

Department of Transport

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

Road Safety Authority (RSA)

New Posts

Assistant Principals

3

not approved

New Posts

Higher Executive Officers

3

not approved

New Posts

Executive Officers

2

not approved

New Posts

Clerical Officers

3

not approved

New Posts

Vehicle Inspector

11

not approved

2

Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR)

Renew Contract

Principal Officer

1

Approved

1

Dec-09

Vacancy filled to meet statuary obligation

Renew Contract

Assistant Principals

2

Approved

2

Dec-09

Vacancy filled to meet statuary obligation

Renew Contract

Executive Officers

3

Approved

3

Dec-09

Vacancy filled to meet statuary obligation

3

National Accident Investigation Office

Filling Post

Principal Officer

1

Approved

1

Nov-09

Important for safety purposes

4

National Transport Authority

New Posts

CEO

1

Approved

1

Jan-10

Newly established Authority

New Posts

Senior Management

4

Approved/ Not approved

3

Jan-10

Newly established Authority

5

Medical Bureau of Road Safety ( MBRS)

Filling Post

Admin Manager

1

No decision to-date

Filling Post

Scientist

1

No decision to-date

Filling Post

Manager

1

No decision to-date

Department of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

Request details to follow.

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

Central Fisheries Board

To meet legal obligations under the Water Framework Directive

Technician (Hydroacoustics)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

1 year temporary position. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

2

Central Fisheries Board

To meet legal obligations under the Water Framework Directive

Research Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

1 year temporary position. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

3

Central and Regional Fisheries Boards

To meet legal obligations under the Water Framework, Habitats and Eels Directives

Fishery Officers

23

1. Yes, application was approved

23

28/07/2009

4 month seasonal positions.Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

4

Eastern Regional Fisheries Board

For increased surveillance in the Dublin, Dundalk and Wexford districts.

Fishery Officers

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

28/07/2009

6.5 month temporary positions.Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

5

Shannon Regional Fisheries Board

To fill recently vacated post

Fisheries Environmental Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

1 year temporary position.Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

6

Western Regional Fisheries Board

Cover for maternity leave

Administrative Assistant, Grade IV

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

1 year temporary position. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

7

Western Regional Fisheries Board

For housekeeper at Aasleagh Lodge

Summer Student

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

4 month seasonal position.Generates substantial own resources income for the Board.

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

8

North Western Regional Fisheries Board

To fill recently vacated post

Assistant Inspector

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

Permanent position. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

9

North Western Regional Fisheries Board

For increased salmon protection effort

Fishery Officers

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

28/07/2009

3 month seasonal positions.Necessity to protect Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

10

Northern Regional Fisheries Board

To fill recently vacated post

Fisheries Environmental Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

Permanent position. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

11

Northern Regional Fisheries Board

For administrative support for the CEO/Assistant CEO

Administrative Assistant, Grade IV

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

6 month temporary position. recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

12

Northern Regional Fisheries Board

To meet minimun staffing levels required to run angling centres.

General Operatives

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

28/07/2009

5 month seasonal positions.Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

13

Central Fisheries Board

For EU Life+ Programme

Research Officers (including Project Manager)

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

28/07/2009

4 year contract positions Externally funded: 50% EU, 50% National Parks and Wildlife Service. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

14

Central Fisheries Board

For EU Life+ Programme

Fisheries Assistant

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

4 year contract positon. Externally funded: 50% EU, 50% National Parks and Wildlife Service. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

15

Shannon Regional Fisheries Board

Protection and conservation work at Scartleigh Dam

Fishery Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

1 year contract position. Board would be unable to carry out contract with Kerry County Council who are fully funding this post.

16

Shannon Regional Fisheries Board

To fulfil contract with ESB to provide fisheries enforcement services on ESB fisheries in the Shannon region

Fishery Officers

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

28/07/2009

1 year contract positions. Board would be unable to carry out contract with ESB who are fully funding this post.

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

17

Shannon Regional Fisheries Board

For EU Life+ Programme

Project Manager

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

5 year contract position. Externally funded: 50% EU, 50% National Parks and Wildlife Service and others. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

18

Shannon Regional Fisheries Board

For EU Life+ Programme

Research Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

5 year contract position. Externally funded: 50% EU, 50% National Parks and Wildlife Service and others. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

19

Central Fisheries Board

For Marine Sports Fish Programme

Technician (Data Mining)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

1 year contract position. Funded by Marine Institute and own resources

20

Geological Survey of Ireland

To facilitate participation by the INFOMAR programme team in two EU sponsored marine geology projects.

Specialist contract staff

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

23/10/2009

Posts funded from EU sources at no cost to Exchequer. Participation in the projects will leverage external funding to the benefit of the economy. Participation in and attraction of such projects is a stated objective of the INFOMAR programme.The posts are for a three-year fixed term under specific purpose contracts linked to EU projects

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

21

Commission for Energy Regulation

To replace retiring Commissioner for Energy Regulation

Commissioner

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

09/11/2009

5 year contract. Current and future role of the CER, both nationally and at a regional and EU level, justifies a full-time multi-member Commission.

22

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

To extend the contract of the Department’s Research Coordinator by 50 weeks.

Research Coordinator

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

18/11/2010

Work to be undertaken is a critical time-defined component of the Knowledge Society Strategy. No further renewal of contract beyond period specified.

23

Commission for Energy Regulation

To renew contract of employment of legal advisor

Level 4, Band A

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

21/01/2010

Permanent contract. Significant savings can be realised from use of in-house legal advice compared with cost of procuring such advice from external sources.

24

Broadcasting Authority of Ireland

Replace Finance Officer

Finance Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

04/02/2010

Sanctioned on basis of redeployment from within the public service.

25

Ordnance Survey Ireland

Replace Principal HR/Corporate Services

Principal

1

3. No decision to date

26

Ordnance Survey Ireland

Replace Assistant Principal, Corporate Services

Assistant Principal

1

3. No decision to date

27

South Western Regional Fisheries Board

To fill recently vacated post

Inspector

1

3. No decision to date

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

28

Central Fisheries Board

To formally assign staff member to role of Director of Finance and pay higher duties allowance in absence of post holder who is on sick leave.

Director

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

16/03/2010

Agreed for up to six months.

29

Commission for Energy Regulation

For design and implementation of the Petroleum Safety Framework

Petroleum Safety Manager

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

31/03/2010

Permanent post. Sanctioned on basis that new functions for petroleum safety conferred on the CER require specialist expertise.

30

Commission for Energy Regulation

To assist the Petroleum Safety Manager (see above) in the design and implementation of the Petroleum Safety Framework.

Support Analyst

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

31/03/2010

Permanent posts. Sanctioned on basis that new functions for petroleum safety conferred on the CER require specialist expertise.

Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

0

Nil requests

0

0

Department of Education and Science

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

Co Roscommon VEC

To replace retiring CEO; statutory post

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

26/6/09

Temporary 6 month appointment pending reorganisation of VECs. Extended to 28 Feb 2010. 17 February 2010 — further extended to 30 April 2010.

2

Department of Education & Science

Renewal of secondment of 276 teachers to Education Services

Teacher

276

1. Yes, application was approved

170

6/7/09

Continuation of highest priority teacher training and support. Partial approval granted. 276 posts were sought of which 170 were approved.

3

Church of Ireland College of Education

To replace retiring principal

Principal, College of Education

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

6/7/09

Need for head of organisation.

4

Vocational Education Committees

To award a fixed term contract to fill one existing caretaker vacancy on a temporary basis to ensure the smooth running of Certificate examinations during June 2009. To give delegated sanction to award similar contracts in other VECs, in similar circumstances, during June 2009, should the need arise.

Caretaker

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

27/5/09

To ensure uninterrupted running of State examinations. One immediate post sanctioned; delegated sanction to appoint others should the need arise.

Department of Education and Science — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

5

NCTE

To fill 1 National Coordinator post; Renewal of contracts of 2 Project Officers; Renewal of either 1 Senior Administrative Assistant or 1 Secretary Grade III post

National Coordinator; 2 Project Officers; Senior Admin Asst or Secretary Grade III

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

31/7/09

Majority of staff of NCTE employed on fixed term contracts. Need to reappoint a minimum number of these staff (4) to maintain services.

6

Co Dublin VEC

Replace CEO

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

15/10/09

Temporary 3 month acting appointment pending reorganisation of VECs. 17 February 2010 — further extended to 30 April 2010.

7

Co Offaly VEC

Replace CEO

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

9/10/09

Temporary 3 month acting appointment pending reorganisation of VECs. Extended to 28 Feb 2010. 17 February 2010 — further extended to 30 April 2010.

8

City of Waterford VEC

Replace CEO

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

15/10/09

Temporary 3 month acting appointment pending reorganisation of VECs. Extended to 28 Feb 2010. 17 February 2010 — further extended to 30 April 2010.

7

Co Westmeath VEC

Replace CEO

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

15/10/09

Temporary 3 month acting appointment pending reorganisation of VECs. 17 February 2010 — further extended to 30 April 2010.

8

Co Donegal VEC

Replace CEO

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

15/10/09

Temporary 3 month acting appointment pending reorganisation of VECs. 17 February 2010 — further extended to 30 April 2010.

Department of Education and Science — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

9

City of Limerick VEC

Replace CEO

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

15/10/09

Temporary 3 month acting appointment pending reorganisation of VECs. 17 February 2010 — further extended to 30 April 2010.

10

Institute of Technology Tralee

To employ two Technicians to ensure the continued provision of certain courses

Laboratory Technicians

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

23/9/09

To ensure the continued provision of certain courses

11

New Body amalgamating HETAC, FETAC & NQAI

CEO of NQAI/Interim CEO of new qualifications and QA Body

Chief Executive Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

22/12/09

CEO of NQAI and Interim appointment of CEO for the new body to be established amalgamating HETAC, FETAC and the NQAI

14

DLIADT

To replace 4 Technicians

Technician

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

13/10/09

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

15

IoT Carlow

To replace 4 Technicians

Technician

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

17/11/09

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

16

Galway-Mayo IoT

To replace 2.5 Technicians

Technician

2.5

1. Yes, application was approved

2.5

17/11/09

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

17

IoT Tallaght

To replace 2 Technicians

Technician

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

17/11/09

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

18

IoT Tralee

To replace 2 Technicians

Technician

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

17/11/09

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

19

IT Blanchardstown

To replace 5 staff on maternity leave

4 Lecturers and 1 Asst Lecturers

5

1. Yes, application was approved

5

16/10/09

Fixed purpose contracts to cover 5 staff on mat leave

Department of Education and Science — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

20

IoT Sligo

Project Manager Higher Certificate in Custodial Care

Project Manager

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

26/10/09

Fixed term contract to coincide with contract with Prison Service

21

Dublin Institute of Technology

To replace 6 Technicians

Technician

6

1. Yes, application was approved

6

17/11/09

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

22

Athlone IoT

To replace 1 Technician

Technician

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

17/11/09

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

23

Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse

to retain 6 staff on rolling 3 month contracts to continue work of commission

2 x f/t EO, 1 x p/t EO, 1 x p/t IT Manager, 2 x p/t SO

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

6/1/2010

To continue essential work of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse. Please note that the 6 posts equate to less than 4 WTE

24

FETAC

Appt of 3 staff on 3 year fixed term contracts to carry out EQARF project. Fully EU funded.

Director, Policy Officer, Project Administrator

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

12/2/10

Fully funded by EU. FETAC won tender to carry out EQARF project.

25

Vocational Support Services Unit (VSSU)

To replace the deceased Director of the Vocational Support Services Unit

Professional Accountant Grade I

1

4. Application was refused

26

Comhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaiochta (COGG)

Appt of 4 staff on initial one year renewable contracts to carry out the functions of COGG. 3 x Development Officer posts and one CO post. Upgrade one existing EO post to HEO level.

3 x Engineer Grade II, 1 x CO, 1 EO to HEO upgrade

4

4. Application was refused

To perform the functions of COGG. The provision of supports for the teaching of Irish at 1st and 2nd level.

Department of Education and Science — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

27

FETAC

Ext of contracts for 1 year of 3 FETAC Monitors for monitoring and assessment of education providers

3 Monitors

3

4. Application was refused

0

28/4/10

28

HEA

Ext of contracts of 3 EOs for various tasks

3 EOs

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

28/4/10

Part approval granted — 3 posts for 7 months. 1 year extension sought.

29

DIAS

To appoint one experienced researcher, on a 13-month fellowship contract to assist on an externally-funded research project (Marie Curie Early Stage Research Training Project)

Researcher

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

19/5/2010

To assist in the completion of an externally-funded research project. 1 x 13 month fixed-term contract

30

DIAS

To employ one junior post-doctoral researcher on a fixed-term contract for a six month period.

Junior post-doctoral researcher

1

3. No decision to date

31

NEWB

Replacement of CEO

CEO

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

20 May 2010

To continue the work of the CEO. 1 x 5 year fixed-term contract

32

Mayo VEC

Replacement of Education Officer

Education Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

11 May 2010

To replace vacancy at EO level. 1 for 6 months

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts sought

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

Garda

Appointment of 3 Chief Superintendents & 10 Superintendents & 1 Assistant Garda Commissioner

1 Assistant Garda Commissioner, 3 Chief Superintendents, 10 Superintendents

14

Yes, application was approved.

14

22/05/2009

To replace key staff who are retiring

2

Garda

Appointment of 1 Assistant Garda Commissioner

1 Assistant Garda Commissioner

1

Yes, application was approved.

1

28/09/2009

To replace key staff who are retiring

3

Garda

Appointment of 1 Assistant Garda Commissioner , 9 Chief Superintendent, 14 Superintendents, 28 Inspectors, 120 Sergeants (172 posts in total)

1 Assistant Garda Commissioner, 9 Chief Superintendents, 14 Superintendents, 28 Inspectors, 120 Sergeants

172

No formal sanction given as an Employment Control Framework is in the process of being agreed with the Department of Justice for the Justice Sector. It will then be a matter for the Garda to manage staff numbers within the agreed Framework and associated pay allocation.

4

Garda

Reappointment of Garda to Garda Technical Bureau

1 Garda

1

Yes, application was approved.

1

09/03/2010

Reappointment of a Guard who had left force who had previously been given technical training and worked in the Bureau. 3 staff due to retire from the Bureau this year and this guard’s training and experience would make him suitable to fill one of these posts.

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts sought

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

5

Garda

Reappointment of Garda to the Garda Force

1 Garda

1

Yes, application was approved.

1

16/04/2010

Sanction was given on foot of legal advice from the Office of the Attorney General which advised that this Garda had a legitimate expectation that she would be re-appointed on the basis of an agreement between the Minister for Justice and the Garda Commissioner in 1980 regarding the extension of the categories to be considered for re-appointment which included members who resign from the Force to take up a post with UN.

6

Garda

Reappointment of 2 Garda to the Garda Force

2 Garda

2

Application under consideration

Justice are seeking approval to the reappointment of 2 garda, 1 of whom who left the Force to take up UN posts and another who left to set up a Driving school.

7

Irish Youth Justice Service

Extension of contracts for 27 staff employed in the Finglas and Oberstown Children Detention Schools.

10 Residential Childcare Workers, 4 Night Supervisors, 6 General Operatives, 1 Chef, 1 Assistant chef, 1 Assistance Maintenance Officer, 2 Clerical Officer, 1 Night Unit manager, 1 Assistant Deputy Director

27

Yes, application was approved.

27

26/06/2009

To facilitate the ordered restructing of staffing in the youth detention centres prior to the closure of one detention centre.

8

Irish Youth Justice Service

Extension of contract for 1 worker at Trinity House

1 General Operative

1

Yes, application was approved.

1

02/09/2009

To maintain catering services at weekends.

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts sought

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

9

Irish Youth Justice Service

Extension of contract for 5 workers at Trinity House

2 Residential Childcare Workers, 2 Night Supervisors, 1 Clerical Officer

5

Yes, application was approved.

5

18/09/2009

To facilitate the ordered restructuring of staffing in the youth detention centres prior to the closure of one detention centre.

10

Irish Youth Justice Service

Extension of contracts for 68 staff employed in the Children Detention Schools to 31 March 2010.

31 Residential Childcare Workers, 12 Night Supervisors, 13 General Operatives, 1 Chef, 1 Assistance Maintenance Officer, 6 Clerical Staff, 3 Night Unit Managers, 1 Assistant Night Unit Manager

68

Yes, application was approved.

68

25/09/2009

To facilitate the ordered restructuring of staffing in the youth detention centres prior to the closure of one detention centre.

Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

An Bord Pleanála

Delay in filling staff complement due to industrial relations issue

SEO

1

Sanction was refused

0

09.06.09

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

2

Private Residential Tenancies Board

PRTB wish to engage 30 COs rather than 22 agency staff for same cost

CO

30

Sanction was refused

0

21.05.09

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

3

Environmental Protection Agency

Reappointment as term has expired

Director

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

11.09.09

Post is vital for operation of services

4

Wicklow County Council*

Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement in the Public Service

Director of Services

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a temporary/acting basis

1

18.12.09

Post is vital for operation of services

5

Irish Regions Office

Contract expired

EU Programmes & Communication Officer

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

27.01.10

Post is vital for operation of services

6

BMW Regional Assembly

Contract expired

Auditor

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

24.03.10

Post is vital for operation of services

7

Environmental Protection Agency

New Post to Manage Dumping at Sea Permits

Technical Manager

1

Sanction was refused

0

08.03.10

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

8

Dublin Docklands Development Authority

Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement in the Public Service

Secretary

1

No decision to date

Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

9

Dublin Docklands Development Authority

Contract is due to expire

Director of Finance

1

No decision to date

10

Housing Finance Agency

To fill one full time and one part time EO posts to supply administrative support and loan book management

EO

1.5

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1.5

08.03.10

Post is vital for operation of services

11

Housing Finance Agency

To fill a jobshare CO post due to a member of staff switching to job share

CO

0.5

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

0.5

08.03.10

Post is vital for operation of services

12

Housing Finance Agency

To fill 1 full time & 1 part time CO posts arising as consequential vacancies from the filling of the EO posts above

CO

1.5

Sanction was refused

0

08.03.10

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

13

Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland

To fill the post of Director of Advisory Services following the departure of Dr. Colgan to the IAEA

PSO

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

08.03.10

Post is vital for operation of services

14

Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland

Fill the consequential vacancy arising from filling the post of Director of Advisory Services

SSO

1

Sanction was refused

0

08.03.10

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government — continued

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

15

Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland

Fill the consequential vacancy arising from filling the post of Director of Advisory Services

SO

1

Sanction was refused

0

08.03.10

16

Local Government Management Agency

Director of OLAM

Director

1

No decision to date

17

Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly

To fill a first level controller post to implement the systems of controls for the Ireland Wales Programme

Grade 1V

4

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

19.04.10

Post is vital for operation of services

18

An Bord Pleanála

Contract Expired. Application to extend contract for 1 year

Planning Inspector

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a temporary/acting basis

1

23.04.10

Post is vital for operation of services

19

Dublin Docklands Development Authority

Sanction sought to acting up allowance for the Acting CEO

Acting CEO

1

No decision to date

0

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

Courts Service

5 Legal Researchers

Legal Researchers

5

Approved

01-Jun-09

5

Approved but next 6 Tipstaff to be suppressed

1 CO in Limerick from PAS CO panel

CO

1

Approved

18-Nov-09

1

1 CO from PAS

1 CO in Waterford from PAS CO panel

CO

1

Approved

18-Nov-09

1

1 CO from PAS

Dep Gen Solicitor (AP) acting to Gen Solicitor (PO) to be made substantive

Gen Solicitor

1

Approved

06-Nov-09

1

Sanctioned as substantive Gen Solicitor on basis of suppressing Dep Gen Solicitor post

Tip staffs (criers and ushers) for judiciary

Tip Staff (criers and ushers)

5

Approved

11-Mar-10

5

Operational needs.

Permanent Court messenger Galway

Court Messenger

1

Approved

21-Jan-10

1

Statutory requirements

10 Judicial Fellowships to the High Court

Fellowships

10

Under Consideration

Fellows considered to provide key support to the Judiciary

4 Assistant Principal Officer posts in Dublin

Assistant Principal

4

Under Consideration

3 to replace 4 normal retirements and 1 lateral transfer

3 Executive Officers in Dublin

Executive Officer

3

Under Consideration

2 to replace retirements and 1 to replace transfer

1 Clerical Officer Wexford/Waterford

Clerical Officer

1

Under Consideration

To replace staff member transferring to a Garda Station

Service Officer with Allowance for Dublin

Service Officer

1

Under Consideration

Vacancy created on retirement of incumbent

PRA

35 Technical Promotions

Examiner of Maps

35

Part Approved

During 2009

20

20 Mapping Draughtspersons promoted to next level. Old grade defunct while their new grade has big workload. Part Granted (no allowance for 15 staff)

Deputy Registrar, Head of Operations (departmental grade, Director equivalent)

Deputy Registrar

1

Approved

09-Mar-10

1

Business Critical Post

Mapping Advisor, (departmental grade, PO standard equivalent)

Mapping Advisor

1

Approved

09-Mar-10

1

Business Critical Post

Personnel Officer, (PO standard)

PO

1

Approved

09-Mar-10

1

Business Critical Post

2 AP higher and 2 AP std

AP

4

Part Approved

09-Mar-10

1

Promotions

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

JELR

CEO Legal Aid Board

CEO

1

Approved

28-Aug-09

1

Statutory Post, extension for a 5 year fixed term contract

CEO Equality Authority

CEO

1

Approved

23-Apr-09

1

Statutory Post, extension for a 5 year fixed term contract

Employment Assistance Officer (EAO)

Employment Assistance Officer

1

Approved

06-May-09

1

Existing Civil Servant, cost neutral

Garda Inspectorate — 2 members

Garda Inspectorate

2

Approved

07-Aug-09

2

2 new members of Inspectorate sanctioned for a 2 year period

Deputy Chief State Pathologist

Deputy Chief State Pathologist

1

Approved

07-Jul-09

1

Exception made to make temp contract established (see file )

Head of IT

Head of IT

1

Approved

17-Feb-10

1

Acting up allowance for 1 year

2 Legal Researchers -INIS/ORAC

Legal Researcher

2

Approved

02-Feb-10

2

Renewal of Contracts for 1 year

Director General (Dep Sec)

DG

1

Under Consideration

1

Approved at lower level.

International Policy (Asst Sec)

Asst Sec

1

Under Consideration

0

JELR ISER 10 PO posts

PO

8

Part Approved

4

JELR shared services (Payroll Project Team 1 AP, 2 HEOs and 1 EO)

EO to AP

5

Under Consideration

JELR shared services (1 AP, 2 EOs and 2 COs)

CO to AP

5

Under Consideration

12 Junior Solicitors

Solicitors

12

Approved

15-Apr-10

Irish Prison Service

Renewal of Contract for the Director General

Director General

1

Approved

June 09

1

Renewal of 5 year contract

Chief Officer competition

Chief Officer

1

Approved

31-Jul-09

1

Prison operational reasons.

40 Recruit Prison Officers

Prison Officer

40

Approved

31-Jul-09

40

Prison operational reasons.

3 Governor 1’s

Governor

3

Approved

31-Jul-09

3

Prison operational reasons.

2 Governor 2 posts

Governor

2

Approved

20/10/09

2

Prison operational reasons.

1 Governor 2 Post

Governor

1

Approved

20/10/09

1

Prison operational reasons.

Recruit grade prison officers

Prison Officers

40

Part Approved

23-Oct-09

40

Prison operational reasons.

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

Mandatory Drug Testing (Allowances)

2

Approved

13-Oct-09

2

Prison operational reasons.

Governor posts

Governor

15

Approved

Recruit grade prison officers

Prison Officer

40

Approved

22-Jan-10

40

38 recruit prison officers and 2 psychologists

Assistant Chief Officer

Asst Chief Officer

15

Approved

11-Feb-10

1

Governor III

Governor

1

Under Consideration

Required for Transformation Implementation Team

Assistant Governor

Asst Gov

1

Under Consideration

Required for Transformation Implementation Team

Assistant Principal

Assistant Principal

1

Under Consideration

Required for Transformation Implementation Team

2 Clerical Officers

Clerical Officer

2

Under Consideration

Required for Transformation Implementation Team

Garda Civilian

Acting up allowances

Under Consideration

GPO head of HR strategy

PO

1

Under Consideration

Head of Garda Infor Services centre

PO

1

Under Consideration

Head of Training unit Templemore

AP

1

Approved

12-Mar-10

1

1 year contract extension

IT staff 9

Various

9

Under Consideration

D/E&S

Programme for Govt 22 Psychologist & 3 SENO staff

Psychologists/SENO

25

Approved

25-May-09

25

Extending a service and reducing spend on panel scheme

Chief Inspector vacancy from retirement

Chief Inspector

1

Approved

Nov 09

1

Business Critical Post

A/Secretary post

Asst Secretary

2

Part Approved

08-Oct-09

1

Business Critical Post

CEO of State Examinations Commission

Asst Secretary

1

Approved

08-Oct-09

1

Business Critical Post

School Inspectorate

10 Retired School Inspectors

10

Approved

03-Feb-10

10

NCCA

8 Education Officers

Under Consideration

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

D/Social Protection

New Management Board Structure

A/Sec and Director

4

Agree in principle to fill two of three A/Sec arising in ’09 and to replace over ’09 and ’10 four departing Directors by two /Secs.

Decision by Minister 8/10/09 to proceed. Sanction issued 19 April ’10 to appoint 2 A/Secs to replace 4 departing Directors.

4

Agreed to restructure responsibilities at Mgt Board level from 5 A/Sec and 5 Directors to 6 A/Sec and 1 Director. This involved replacing 4 departing Directors by 2 A/Secs

To fill vacancy resulting from retirement in Child Family & Supplementary Policy & Services

Asst Secretary

1

Approved

Oct-09

1

Business Critical Post

Regional & Pensions Service Delivery

Asst Secretary

1

Approved

Oct-09

1

Business Critical Post

General Register Office

Asst Secretary

1

Refused

0

GPs required to operate med assessment scheme

Medical Assessors

4

Approved

09-Nov-09

4

Control function in monitoring validity of illness cases

Dep Head for med assessment scheme

Deputy Chief Medical Advisor

1

Approved

13-Jul-09

1

To provide management level to ensure appropriate monitoring of illness cases

Director — This is a statutory post (PO plus €12,000)

Chief Appeals Officer

1

Approved

23-Oct-09

1

Statutory Requirement to have Director in place

Head of Office — renewal of contract

Pension Ombudsman

1

Approved

01-Apr-09

1

Statutory requirement to have Ombudsman in place

3 posts sanctioned for Buncrana Office Donegal

Service Officer

3

Approved

24-Aug-09

3

Not possible to recruit Service Officer staff locally or via CAF

8 Buncrana Office Donegal

Staff Officer

8

Approved

06-Oct-09

8

Supervisory posts

Promotions (Dundalk)

CO to SO

20

Approved

01-Jul-09

20

Reduce Live Register “waiting time” for new claimants

Promotions Dundalk Initiative

CO to SO

25

Approved

23-Dec-09

25

Reduce Live Register “waiting time” for new claimants

Sanction to run competition for PO post in Sligo

Principal Officer

Approved

18-Jan-10

1

No assignment to date

Package of up to 100 posts being requested — 50 promotions in 2010 and 50 in 2011.

SO, EO and HEO, AP,

100

Part Approved

25-Mar-10

20

To deal with increases in the Live Register

Social Welfare Appeals Officers (Retired)

AP

12

Approved

20-May-10

12

Backlog of Appeals office Claims requiring decisions

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

Special Adviser to Minister

Special Adviser

1

Approved

06-May-10

1

Ministerial appointments to D/SP

Special Media Adviser to Minister

Media Adviser

1

Approved

06-May-10

1

Ministerial appointments to D/SP

Personal Assistant to Minister

Personal Assistant

1

Approved

06-May-10

1

Ministerial appointments to D/SP

Personal Secretary to Minister

Personal Secretary

1

Approved

06-May-10

1

Ministerial appointments to D/SP

D/AFF

Filling of 2 A/Sec posts

Assistant Secretary

2

Part Approved

19-Mar-10

1

Filling of vacancy in Direct Payment Schemes

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

10-Jul-09

1

Business Critical Post

Senior Management, technical and scientific (45) to address skills deficits and ensure EU directives compliance

Various

45

Part Approved

19-Mar-10

21

Statutory posts

Audit & Senior management

2

Approved

19-Mar-10

2

Acting up allowance

HEO

1

Approved

2/10/09

1

Acting up allowance

AP

1

Part Approved

07-Apr-10

1

Veterinary Inspector carrying out senior insp duties.

D/EH&LG

To replace retiring and promoted Assistant Secretary

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

19/6/09

1

Business Critical Post

Request for 35 posts, 14 via promotion and 21 via recruitment

various Tech and administrative grades

35

Under consideration

Business Critical Posts

Met Éireann — Director

Director

1

Approved

18-Sep-09

1

Business Critical Post

To replace Principal on loan

PO

1

Approved

29/1/10

1

Acting position

National Parks & Wildlife — 8 posts

1xInsp G I, 1x Insp G 2, 4 x Insp G 3, 2 x Conservation Rangers

8

Approved

27-Mar-10

8

Met Éireann — 6 Posts

1xAst Dir, 1x Meteor, 4x Met officers

6

Approved

27-Mar-10

6

1 x Water Quality Inspector

Water Quality Inspector

1

Approved

27-Mar-10

1

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

1 x Principal Adviser (Environment Inspectorate)

Principal Adviser

1

Approved

27-Mar-10

1

1 x Inspector Grade III

Inspector Grade III

1

Approved

27-Mar-10

1

General Service Posts

1 x PO, 2 AP, 1 AO, 1 EO

5

Approved

27-Mar-10

5

Miscellaneous posts in D/EH&LG

Multiple grades

13

Refused

27-Mar-10

0

To replace retired assistant secretary — Heritage Division

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

21-Apr-10

1

Business Critical Post — already deferred for 1 year

Enterprise, Trade and Innovation

ET&I (Labour Relations Commission)

Reappointment of 2 Rights Commissioners

PO equivalent

2

Approved

28/04/2009

2

Non-discretionary volume of LRC cases and need to maintain state IR machinery.

Personal Assistant, Personal Secretary and 2 Civilian Drivers for Minister of State Kelleher

HEO, EO, Civilian Driver

4

Approved

06/05/2009

4

Political staff to assist Min of State.

Personal Assistant, Personal Secretary and 2 Civilian Drivers for Minister of State Lenihan

HEO, EO, Civilian Driver

4

Approved

12/05/2009

4

Political staff to assist Min of State.

ET&I (Labour Relations Commission)

Deputy Director of Conciliation Services

PO

1

Approved

29/5/2009

1

Business Critical Post in LRC necessary to maintain state IR machinery.

Personal Assistant, Personal Secretary and 2 Civilian Drivers for Minister of State Calleary

HEO, EO, Civilian Driver

4

Approved

09/06/2009

4

Ministerial Staff

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

ET&I (Labour Court)

Reappointment of 2 Members of Labour Court

N/A

2

Approved

02/06/2009

2

Statutory posts needed for operation of divisions of Labour Court

ET&I (Office of Director of Corporate Enforcement)

Part-time services of retired High Court Judge

High Court Judge

1

Approved

03/06/2009

1

To adjudicate on legal documents in Anglo Irish Bank investigation

ET&I (Labour Relations Commission)

Reappointment of 2 Rights Commissioners

PO equivalent

2

Approved

13/08/2009

2

Non-discretionary volume of LRC cases and need to maintain state IR machinery.

ET&I (National Employment Rights Authority)

Solicitor

Solicitor

1

Application was refused

10/09/2009

0

ET&I (Patents Office)

Request for higher duties allowances for 2 EOs

HEO

2

Approved

10/09/2009

2

Temporary replacements in Trademarks Division

ET&I

Renew contracts of 2 legal researchers

EO

2

Approved

16/09/2009

2

To provide research for drawing up Companies Consolidation bill. 2 EO posts to be suppressed for duration of temporary contract.

ET&I (Labour Court)

Deputy Chairman of Labour Court

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

31/01/2010

1

Statutory post. Filled by agreement by ICTU nominee.

ET&I

Additional 10 IT posts

HEO and EO

10

Under Consideration

ET&I

Appointment of Legal Advisor on secondment from Office of AG

Legal Advisor

1

Under Consideration

ET&I (Labour Court)

Filling of Ordinary member of Labour Court post

Principal Officer Higher

1

Approved

15/04/2010

1

Statutory post. Filled by retention of member until new nomination is received.

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

Enterprise, Trade & Innovation

Minister O’Keeffe’s Special Advisors

Principal Officer

2

Approved

18/05/2010

2

Political Appointment

Minister O’Keeffe’s Personal Assistant

Higher Executive Officer

1

Approved

18/05/2010

1

Political Appointment

Minister O’Keeffe’s Personal Secretary

Executive Officer

1

Approved

18/05/2010

1

Political Appointment

CRAGA

To start up and oversee new Irish SI translation unit.

Director

1

Approved

08/04/2009

1

Response to High Court ruling.

To manage the translation of Statutory Instruments into Irish

Aistritheoir Grád II

1

Approved

08/04/2009

1

Response to High Court ruling.

To manage the translation of Statutory Instruments into Irish

Aistritheoir Grád III

1

Approved

08/04/2009

1

Response to High Court ruling.

Ministerial Staff

Personal Assistant (HEO)

1

Approved

06/05/2009

1

Political Appointment

Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary

1

Approved

06/05/2009

1

Political Appointment

Ministerial Staff

Civilian Driver

1

Approved

30/04/2009

2

Political Appointment

To translate documents into Irish for EU.

Detached National Expert

1

Approved

05/11/2009

3

Temporary fixed term contracts renewed for 1 year.

To replace 2 Assistant Secretaries, one of whom had retired and the other promoted.

Assistant Secretary

2

Approved

23/04/2010 & 14/05/2010

2

Department was operating with only 1 Assistant Sec. Business critical post

Charitable, Donations and Bequests Office

To renew contract of Secretary to Commissioners.

Solicitor (AP)

1

Under Consideration

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

National Advisory Committee on Drugs

To recruit researcher into drugs.

Researcher (AP)

1

Approved

11-Mar-10

1

Sanction granted to Health Research Board to recruit and second the Researcher to the NACD. Post considered a ‘Business Critical Post’.

Minister Carey’s Special Advisor

Principal Officer

1

Approved

19-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister Carey’s Media Advisor

Principal Officer

1

Approved

19-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister Carey’s Personal Assistant

Higher Executive Officer

1

Approved

19-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister Carey’s Personal Secretary

Executive Officer

1

Approved

19-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister of State White’s Personal Assistant

Higher Executive Officer

1

Approved

19-May-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister of State White’s Personal Secretary

Executive Officer

1

Approved

19-May-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister of State White’s Civilian Drivers

Civilian Driver

2

Approved

19-May-10

2

Political Appointment

Ministerial Staff (Minister of State White)

Special Advisor

1

Under consideration

Finance

Banking specialist (temporary fixed term contract for 3 years)

Banking Specialist (Assistant Secretary level)

1

Approved

21/8/09

1

Urgent need for expertise in banking area.

Package of IT posts.

1 ICT AP, 2 ICT E0s, 1 promotion EO to HEO (ICT)

4

Approved

23/12/09

4

Is in line with the ICT staffing recommendations made by the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes

Assistant Secretary in CMOD

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

Jan 2010

1

Business Critical Post

8 POs

Principal

8

Approved

12-Apr-10

8

Business Critical posts in situation where staffing levels were already below approved revised limits

Director, Language Training Unit; higher duties allowance

Assistant Principal

1

Approved

Oct-09

1

Business Critical post

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

Revenue

Promotion of 2 COs to EO

EO

2

Approved

24/6/09

2

Skilled staff. Newly commissioned Cutter to be launched and used in fight against illegal importation of drugs

Package of 200 posts.

17 PO, 44 AP, 64 HEO/AO, 75 CO/EO (Total 200)

200

Approved

22/12/09

200

To fill key management, audit and policy posts to ensure effective tax collection through a mix of redeployment, internal promotion and open competition.

To have internal competition for 2 CO positions in Print Room.

Clerical Officer

2

Under Consideration

To have internal competition for 2 CO positions in Print Room.

Clerical Officer

2

Approved

17/02/2010

2

Open to Service Officers — regrading of 2 Service Officer posts to CO and filled by redeployment — with no overall increase in numbers.

Completion of final 2 phases of 2003 Uplift Agreement i.e. uplift of 20 Tax Officers to EO; 28 Higher Tax Officers to HEO & 5 CO Programmers to EO JSA

Uplift of 20 Tax Officers to EO; 28 Higher Tax Officers to HEO & 5 CO Programmers to EO JSA

53

Approved

30/03/2010

Revenue Integration to General Service grades. This was a legacy of the Revenue Agreement on Integration agreed with the Unions following the integration of Customs staff with Tax staff. End result is more effective casework management following targeted training.

Revenue Solicitor and Asst Secretary post in Investigations and Prosecutions Division

Revenue Solicitor and Asst Secretary

2

Approved

22/04/2010

2

Particular responsibilities to each post.

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

Valuation Office

Promotions

Chief Superintendents of Mapping

2

Approved

2

Element of restructuring plan for VO.

Higher Superintendents of Mapping

Higher Superintendents of Mapping

2

Approved

2

Element of restructuring plan for VO.

Appeal Officer

Appeal Officer

1

Approved

1

Internal competition — no backfilling of resulting vacancies — overall numbers not affected.

A minimum of 1 Asst Registrar (HEO) and 3 COs for Valuation Tribunal to deal with ongoing Tribunal Appeals arising from National Revaluation

1 Asst Registrar (HEO) and 3 COs

4

Approved

15/04/2010

4

To ensure that the statutory deadlines for processing of appeals following the Revaluation process be met. Sanctioned on basis that an EO post be suppressed for 1 year, while an EO filled the HEO position on an acting up basis. 1 CO post to be filled on redeployment and the other 2 on temp contract for 11 mths each.

C&AG

Vacancies at various Grades

4 PO, 4.7 AP, 14.5 HEO/EO, 1.7 CO (Total 24.9)

24.9

Approved

15-Mar-10

25

Extra responsibilities e.g. NAMA, new Accounting Standards, extra work on Revenue account

1 Director of Audit

Assistant Sec level

1

Approved

30-Apr-10

1

Scale of operations and complex issues involved.

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

OPW

Upgrade

Architect

1

Refused

29/5/09

0

To fill vacancies

Service Officers

3

Approved

22/6/09

3

No viable alternatives to filling vacancy

Commissioner (Property Management Services)

Commissioner (Assistant Secretary)

1

Approved

26-Aug-09

1

To enable OPW to effectively deliver on the current demands for its services made by Government, other Departments and their agencies and the public.

Recruit 16 graduates at a reduced salary to replace those finishing the Graduate Architect Training Scheme.

Architect training programme

16

Approved

14/08/09

16

Participation in scheme for 5 years, — reduced salaries and fees

To fill vacancy in new section

Quantity Surveyor

1

Approved

08/12/09

1

NPPOU section in Trim

To fill possible vacancy in Director of the Botanic Gardens pending decision on 3 yr career break for incumbent to assume major positions in US

Acting up Director of Botanic Gardens

1

Approved

01/04/2010

1

Provided that the previous post of the new Acting Director remain unfilled for the duration of the Director’s absence on career break

Attorney General

Advisory Counsel Grade 111

Advisory Counsel Grade 111

1

Approved

1

Important legal post

Head of Administration

Head of Administration

1

Approved

01-Jan-00

1

Principal post in charge of the office

Assistant Parliamentary Counsel Grade 11

Assistant Parliamentary Counsel Grade 11

3

Approved

3

Important legal posts

Advisory Counsel Grade 1 (Vacancy)

Assistant Secretary Level

1

Approved (acting-up basis for 3 yrs)

21-Sep-09

1

Business Critical Post

Advisory Counsel Grade 11

Advisory Counsel Grade 11

1

Approved

1

Important legal post because of the workload in the office

Dep Director

Deputy Secretary level

1

Approved

23-Feb-10

1

Business Critical Post (Internal TLAC type competition. Consequentials, if any, also sanctioned within ECF.)

Advisory Counsel Grade 111

Advisory Counsel Grade 111

1

Approved

1

Important legal post because of the workload in the office

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

Chief State Solicitor

Solicitor

Solicitor

1

Approved

1

Official appointed on completion of apprenticeship

National Library

Keeper of Manuscripts

Keeper of Manuscripts

1

Approved

1

Specialised post

Assistant Keeper 11/Systems Librarian

Assistant Keeper 11/Systems Librarian

1

Approved

1

Specialised post — vacant for some time

Chester Beatty Library

Director

PO (Higher Level)

1

Approved

22-Jan-10

1

Head of the Library — to be filled by open competition

Central Statistics Office

Assistant Director General

Assistant Director General

1

Approved

22-Oct-09

1

Business Critical Post -approved on the basis any resultant internal vacancy is suppressed

Assistant Director General for Macroeconomic and Environment Divisions

Assistant Director General

1

Approved

Agreed by Minister 14 April 2010

1

Business Critical Post

Senior Statistician

Senior Statistician

1

Under Consideration

Defence

Night watchman

Night Watchman

1

Approved

1

To provide security at the Galway premises

Director of Military Prosecutions

Director of Military Prosecutions

1

Approved

1

Statutory post

Assistant Principal/Senior Systems Analyst

Assistant Principal/Senior Systems Analyst

1

Approved

1

Sanctioned in Galway as a result of the suppression of a PO and the transfer of his duties to Dublin

Head Services Officer

Head Services Officer

1

Approved

1

Needed for the decentralisation of premises to Newbridge

Services Officer

Services Officer

1

Approved

1

Director

Director

1

Approved

1

Principal Officer

Principal Officer

1

Approved

1

Special Adviser

Special Adviser

1

Approved

09/04/2010

1

Ministerial staff

Special Adviser

Special Adviser

1

Approved

16/04/2010

1

Ministerial staff

Personal Assistant

Personal Assistant

1

Approved

09/04/2010

1

Ministerial staff

Personal Secretary

Personal Secretary

1

Approved

09/04/2010

1

Ministerial staff

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

DPP

To fill retirement vacancy

Head of Directing Division (between Asst Sec and Dep Sec)

1

Approved

05-Jun-09

1

Business Critical Post

Chief Prosecution Solicitor

Chief Prosecution Solicitor (between Asst Sec and Dep Sec)

1

Approved

02-Nov-09

1

Business Critical Post

Foreign Affairs

5 Third Secretaries

Third Secretaries

5

Approved

5

From the 2008 competition to provide for succession planning

Assistant Secretary

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

19-Feb-10

1

Business Critical Post

Counsellor and First Secretary

Counsellor and First Secretary

2

Approved

2

Business Critical Post

Taoiseach

Assistant Principal

Assistant Principal

1

Approved

1

Head of the IT Unit to be filled from redeployment

Administrative Officers

Administrative Officers

3

Approved

3

For succession planning

Special Adviser to Minister of State Curran, Chief Whip

Special Adviser

1

Approved

30-Apr-10

1

Transfer of staff to Minister from previous Dept

Staff for Minister of State/Chief Personal Staff

PA & 2 x Worksharing Sec Assistants

2

Approved

06/05/2010

2

Transfer of staff to Minister from previous Dept

Transport

Coastal Sector Unit Managers

Coastal Sector Unit Managers

3

Approved

3

Needed for health and safety reasons

Operations and Training Officer in the coastal service

Operations and Training Officer in the coastal service

1

Approved

1

Needed for health and safety reasons

Assistant Secretary Vacancy from retirement (Public Transport)

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

22-Oct-09

1

Key management level post

A/Sec vacancy

Assistant Secretary

1

Refused

Principal Officer

Principal Officer

2

Approved

2

To be filled from internal competition.

Principal Officer

Principal Officer

1

Under Consideration

Personal Staff for Minister Dempsey

1 x PA & 1 x Personal Sec

2

Approved

21-Apr-10

2

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

Health

DG of OMCYA

Deputy Secretary

1

Approved

23-Dec-09

1

Head of Office of Min for Children etc

Tourism, Culture & Sport

Filling of two posts in Minister’s Constituency Office by transfers from other Departments

Executive Officer

2

Approved

20-May-10

2

Posts vital to the functioning of the Constituency Office

Minister Hanafin’s Special Advisor

Principal Officer

1

Approved

27-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister Hanafin’s Press Advisor

Higher Executive Officer

1

Approved

27-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister Hanafin’s Personal Assistant

Higher Executive Officer

1

Approved

27-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister Hanafin’s Personal Secretary

Executive Officer

1

Approved

27-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

National Archives

Filling of vacancies to avoid the closure of the reading room

CO, EO and Service Officers

6

Under consideration

Communications, Energy & Natural Resources

Filling of Assistant Secretary post arising from retirement — Communications and Broadcast brief

Assistant Secretary

1

Pending

1,109

Total

769

Temporary staff approved for Live Register, etc

D/SFA

LEVY of Staff (i.e. temporary transfers) to Dept Social & Family Affairs

Total posts approved (LEVY):

550

Temporary Posts for CENSUS of Population 2011 [CENTRAL STATISTICS OFFICE]

Civil Service

Exception Sought

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

Central Statistics Office

Staff for the Household Budget Survey i.e. interviewers etc

Staff for the Household Budget Survey i.e. interviewers etc

Approved

85

These staff required for the Household Budget, Business Register and Annual Services Inquiry — 85 Temporary Contracts during 2009 & 2010

ICT Executive Officer

ICT Executive Officer

Approved

2

Required for preparatory work on the Census of Population 2011

Executive Officer

Executive Officer

Approved

4

Required for 18 months to work on the Census. Will be re-assigned to another department on completion of that work

Clerical Officer

Clerical Officer

Approved

24

The CSO was asked to seek staff from other departments for a period of 10 months for Census of Agriculture work. In the event, staff were not available so sanction was later granted to appoint COs on temporary contract

Statistician

Statistician

Approved

1

To work full time on an OECD ‘Programme for International Assessment of Adult Competencies’

Executive Officer

Executive Officer

Approved

2

Also required for this programme

Grades from Clerical Officer to Assistant Principal

Grades from Clerical Officer to Assistant Principal

Approved

158

These are internal CSO staff required from early 2010 to end 2011 to prepare for and finalise the Census 2011

Census Liaison Officers, Regional Supervisors, Field Supervisors and Clerical Officers

Census Liaison Officers, Regional Supervisors, Field Supervisors and Clerical Officers

Under Consideration

Temporary part-time enumerators

Temporary part-time enumerators

Under Consideration

Total posts approved (temps):

276

Departmental Expenditure

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

140 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance, further to Parliamentary Questions No. 100 of 31 March and No. 69 of 28 April 2010, if he will now furnish the details required in respect of the amount of expenditure incurred between 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2009 by his Department and offices, agencies and any other bodies falling within his remit, on the lease, rental or purchase of car parking spaces for use by civil and public servants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21794/10]

I have by informed by the Office of Public Works that they lease car parking spaces for a number of Departments and Offices falling under the Office of Public Works remit. In the period 1st January 2009 to 31st December 2009, based on the information available to the Office of Public Works for the assignment of space in leased buildings to the Departments/Offices involved, the total expenditure incurred by the Office of Public Works for leased car park spaces was €10,660,628, where the specific cost of leased car parking costs are defined in the lease.

The criteria for compiling the answer comprises of the following:

Leases that are specifically for the provision of car-parking facilities only — involving some 53 leases which include 3 on a repayment basis.

Leases at building level that include car-parking facilities where the annual cost of car-parking is included in the annual rent but is shown as a separate cost in the Property System with the number of spaces involved — involving some 144 leases which include 13 on a repayment basis.

Leases from above generating expenditure in 2009.

The total number of leased car spaces in 2009 was of the order of 5,766 and this is broken down in the following table:

Location

No. of Spaces

Average Cost of Space

Dublin

3,684

2,542

Regional

2,082

445

OPW did not purchase any new car parking spaces in 2009.

Financial Institutions Support Scheme

Enda Kenny

Question:

141 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Finance the extent of moneys paid by the banks for the deposit guarantee scheme to date; if he will confirm that this money is ring fenced; the purpose for which it is intended; if he will consider using an element of this fund for the purposes of introducing a loan guarantee scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21824/10]

The legal basis for the Deposit Guarantee Scheme in Ireland is set out in the European Communities (Deposit Guarantee Scheme) Regulations 1995 (S.I. No. 168 of 1995) as amended. These Regulations implement the European Union Directive on Deposit Guarantee Schemes (94/19/EC) as amended. The Deputy will be aware that the Irish Deposit Guarantee Scheme covers 100% of retail deposits with all credit institutions authorised in Ireland (including credit unions) up to a maximum of €100,000 per qualifying depositor per institution and that the Scheme is administered by the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland (CBFSAI).

The level of contribution required from each credit institution is 0.2% of eligible deposits held at all branches of the credit institution in the EEA, including deposits on current accounts and share accounts with a building society, but excluding interbank deposits and deposits represented by negotiable certificates of deposit. While deposits held in credit unions are already covered to the extent set out above, I intend to make regulations to provide for a contribution amount specific to credit unions, in accordance with Section 4(2)(a) of the Financial Services (Deposit Guarantee Scheme) Act 2009.

Each contribution by a credit institution is maintained in a Deposit Protection Account at the CBFSAI. The total amount currently held in Deposit Protection Accounts is approximately €603.5 million. This amount is for use only in relation to the administration of the Deposit Protection Account, including any possible pay-out in the event of an insolvency of a credit institution, as required by the legislation. In that context, I do not propose using an element of this fund for the purposes of introducing a loan guarantee scheme as suggested by the Deputy.

The Deputy may also be aware that work is underway within the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment on the examination of a possible scheme of loan guarantees and my officials have held a number of discussions with officials of that Department on the subject. Key concerns being addressed include the extent to which such a scheme would increase lending to SMEs (as against enhancing security for the banks) and the extent of taxpayer exposure and I understand that the work is nearing completion.

Tax Code

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

142 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance the reason for the Revenue Commissioners’ failure to respond to queries from Inland Revenue in the Six Counties in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan; and if he will ensure a response issues quickly as Inland Revenue will not pay her the tax credits to which she is entitled until it receives the information it has requested from Revenue. [21825/10]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that there is no record of any correspondence having been received from either HMRC or the taxpayer in relation to their tax affairs.

Criminal Prosecutions

Mary Upton

Question:

143 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Finance the number of prosecutions that have been initiated against unlicensed estate agents or letting agents who do not have the required licence under the Auctioneers and House Agents Act 1974; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21893/10]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the following table contains the information requested by the Deputy regarding prosecutions and convictions in respect of unlicensed trading contrary to the Auctioneers and House Agents Act 1947. The figures cover the years 2008 to date. It should be noted that there is no direct correlation between the institution of proceedings and the number of convictions in a given year, as the latter often relates to cases initiated in a previous year.

Proceedings Instituted in year

Numbers Convicted in year

Fines Imposed in year

2008

2009

2010

2008

2009

2010

2008

2009

2010

6

5

1

2

4

2

€715

€1,480

€665

Tax Code

Michael McGrath

Question:

144 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to a matter (details supplied) concerning the interaction of the carbon tax and VAT. [21947/10]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that in accordance with section 10(1) of the Value-Added Tax 1972 (as amended), the amount on which Value-Added Tax is chargeable is the total consideration receivable by the supplier, "including all taxes, commissions, costs and charges whatsoever" but not including the value-added tax itself. As the Deputy will be aware, VAT is an EU wide tax and Irish VAT law must comply with the EU VAT Directives. Article 78 of EU Council Directive 2006/112/EC provides that the taxable amount to which VAT is applied shall include "taxes, duties levies and charges, excluding the VAT itself". Accordingly, as in the case of excises on other products, it is correct to include any carbon tax element of a gas bill in the amount on which VAT is chargeable.

Tax Collection

Michael Ring

Question:

145 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Finance when a one-parent family tax credit will be sorted out in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11. [22001/10]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the person in question has been asked to provide documentation in support of the One Parent Family Credit. On receipt of the supporting documentation the claim will be dealt with.

Tribunals of Inquiry

Michael Lowry

Question:

146 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Finance the reason there is a different calculation between his Department and the Department of the Taoiseach regarding the cost (details supplied) of the Moriarty tribunal; if he will provide a detailed breakdown of the €2.564 million and to whom it was paid; if he will clarify the precise and accurate details on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22089/10]

The reply recently given by the Taoiseach was in response to questions about payments by that Department, and set out the total paid by that Department in relation to the Moriarty Tribunal, up to end-April 2010. The reply which I gave on 1 April 2010 set out the total paid by the Department of the Taoiseach and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, up to end-February 2010. The Department of the Taoiseach total to end-February 2010 was €38.946 million, made up of €7.752 million in Tribunal administration and €31.194 million in Tribunal legal costs. The Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources total to end-February was €2.7 million, made up of €0.136 million in administration and €2.564 million in legal costs, discharged from 2002 to end-February 2010 in connection with that Department's involvement with the Moriarty Tribunal. The Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources will be able to provide information regarding the sum of €2.564 million.

No decision in relation to third party legal costs has been made to date by the Moriarty Tribunal and accordingly, no such costs have been paid by either Department. Expenditure by the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources in relation to the Moriarty Tribunal will in future replies to Parliamentary Questions be classified and shown separately from that paid by the Department of the Taoiseach.

Tax Collection

Finian McGrath

Question:

147 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will support the case of a person (details supplied). [22115/10]

I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that they have noted the additional material supplied by the parties, but that it does not provide grounds for further mitigation of the interest due. The stamp duty return is a standard process and must be completed in all cases to enable Revenue to stamp an instrument, whether a penalty is charged or not. Given the circumstances of the case, Revenue would like to invite the parties and/or their representatives to meet with officials in Dublin Stamping District to have the stamping process explained and to assist them with the completion of the return. A letter to this effect has been issued to the parties.

Health Services

John O'Mahony

Question:

148 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their refund for a eye test carried out in September 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21323/10]

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.

Grant Payments

Tom Hayes

Question:

149 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children when the back-to-school clothing and footwear allowance will be open for applications for September 2010; if different arrangements have been made for 2010 to process this payment; if additional staff have been allocated to processing this payment for 2010, in view of the increase in applications in 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21361/10]

I understand that the HSE and officials from my Department have sought the agreement of the Department of Finance for a number of temporary posts for the administration of the Back to School Clothing and Footwear allowance this year and that this has been agreed. However, 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 further information requested regarding the administration of the scheme. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Physical Education Facilities

Joan Burton

Question:

150 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children if there is a grant scheme to aid the purchase of appropriate equipment for such an external play area; the Health Service Executive support services that are in place to ensure that these facilities are in place in time for the transfer of students with these specific special needs into the school. [21552/10]

I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department does not fund the provision of play equipment for children. Furthermore, due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the additional 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.

Health Services

Jack Wall

Question:

151 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will receive an appointment for a medical procedure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21801/10]

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.

Private Rented Accommodation

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

152 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the cause or causes for the delay in processing applications for rent or mortgage support; if her attention has been drawn to the hardship caused to persons who have been waiting for up to three months for a decision; the action she has taken or proposes to take to address these issues; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22095/10]

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 Waiting Lists

Frank Feighan

Question:

153 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a bed will be made available in respect of a person (details supplied). [21319/10]

I regret that due to industrial action in the HSE I am not in a position to arrange a substantive response to this Question. Subject to the resources available to it, the National Treatment Purchase Fund arranges treatment for patients who have been on a surgical waiting list for more than three months. It is open to the person in question or anyone acting on their behalf to contact the Fund directly in relation to their case.

Community Care

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

154 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding respite care at the Cottage Hospital, Drogheda, County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21321/10]

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

Hospital Services

Joe Costello

Question:

155 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children if there are plans to close down Baggot Street Community Hospital, Dublin 2, or to reduce the services being provided at present in the hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21330/10]

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

Joe Costello

Question:

156 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children if there are plans to close down Sir Patrick Dunn’s Hospital, Dublin, or to reduce the services being provided at present in the hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21331/10]

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

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

157 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Cork, whose appointment for orthodontic treatment at St. Finbarr’s Hospital, Cork, was cancelled, will now be treated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21333/10]

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 Accommodation

Damien English

Question:

158 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of bed days lost at Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan, County Meath due to delayed discharges for each of the years from 2007 to date in 2010 in tabular form. [21339/10]

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

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

159 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will issue on an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21350/10]

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.

Social Welfare Benefits

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

160 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if decisions by community welfare officers to refuse payments are recorded by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21359/10]

The information referred to by the Deputy is not recorded by my Department. 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.

Health Services

Mary Upton

Question:

161 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason funding has been cut to an organisation (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21373/10]

I wish to inform the Deputy that the funding level provided to the organisation in question is a service matter. I regret 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, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course. However, it may interest the Deputy to know that both the Minister for Health and Children and the Health Service Executive have arranged meetings with the named organisation in the next couple of weeks, at which the question of funding and other matters will be discussed.

Vaccination Programme

Pat Breen

Question:

162 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will report on the immunisation programme in schools in County Clare for the past two years; the uptake for DTaP/IPV, MMR and BCG vaccines; the schools involved, in tabular form; if all schools participated in this programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21380/10]

The matters raised by the Deputy are service issues and are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive. I wish to advise the Deputy that, due to industrial action affecting the HSE, it is not possible for the Executive to supply current information in relation to the school immunisation programme. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Care of the Elderly

Bernard Allen

Question:

163 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive will define the standardised approach for the allocation of home help hours and specifically the meaning in terms of the client of the impact on the availability of necessary hours; in terms of the HSE home help employees, the way the standardisation will affect their terms and conditions and or contract of employment; in terms of the private providers, if there are limits on hours available to clients through provision of hours delivered by direct HSE home helps; and if these limits will be mirrored by restrictions on funding allocated to private providers who deliver care services on behalf of the HSE. [21384/10]

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

Medical Cards

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

164 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in Dublin 20 has not been granted a medical card. [21386/10]

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.

Care of the Elderly

Pat Breen

Question:

165 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21415/10]

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

Tobacco-Related Diseases

James Reilly

Question:

166 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the EU countries that have already given effect to Commission Decision No. 2003/641/EC of 5 September 2003 on the use of colour photographs or other illustrations as health warnings on tobacco products; the reason for her delay in bringing forward regulations under the Public Health (Tobacco) (Amendment) Act 2009 in order to give effect to the Commission Decision; her plans to introduce the regulations; when it is envisaged that they will take effect; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21426/10]

Section 6 of the Public Health (Tobacco) (Amendment) Act, 2009 provides for regulations to facilitate the introduction of the combined text and photo warnings on tobacco products and the regulations are currently being drafted. The date for the introduction of the new warnings will be determined following consultation with the relevant stakeholders. To date, Belgium and the United Kingdom have given effect to this non binding Commission Decision.

Health Services

Catherine Byrne

Question:

167 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children the services in place for adolescents under 18 years who are suffering from drug and alcohol addiction; the number of dedicated detox beds available for under 18 year olds; the number of rehabilitation beds available to under 18 year olds around the country and their location; the after-care services available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21443/10]

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:

168 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if a long-term residential placement will be provided in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21480/10]

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

Paul Kehoe

Question:

169 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the provision of cancer care services at a clinic (details supplied) in County Waterford; if all contract negotiations been finalised; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21486/10]

As this is a service matter, the question would in the normal course of events be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply. This is not possible due to industrial action. However, I can advise the Deputy that on 30 April 2010 the HSE and the clinic referred to reached an agreement to put in place an interim arrangement for the provision of radiotherapy services in the South East until the end of December next. I welcome this development which will remove any uncertainty for patients about ongoing radiotherapy treatment in this region.

Services for People with Disabilities

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

170 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps to be taken by a person (details supplied) in County Kildare, with significant disabilities, to establish if they are a victim of the Thalidomide drug; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21532/10]

Following a meeting with the Irish Thalidomide Association in 2008, Minister Harney referred five individuals, who were not included in the 1975 Compensation Scheme for thalidomide survivors, to an independent, recognised international expert, Dr. Peter Kohler of Stockholm in Sweden, for a clinical assessment of their condition. Dr. Kohler determined that one of the five individuals was a victim of thalidomide exposure. The Department is not currently considering any further claims in relation to thalidomide. However, it is open to any individual who believes themselves to be a victim of thalidomide, to forward detailed documentary evidence to the German Agency which administers compensation to those determined as victims of the drug, for consideration of their case.

Hospital Waiting Lists

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

171 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children when surgery will be carried out on a person (details supplied) at Tallaght Hospital, Dublin 24; if arrangements will be made for the release of this patient’s file to the National Treatment Purchase Fund, in order that the necessary intervention will be expedited; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21533/10]

I regret that due to industrial action in the HSE I am not in a position to arrange a substantive response to this Question. Subject to the resources available to it, the National Treatment Purchase Fund arranges treatment for patients who have been on a surgical waiting list for more than three months. It is open to the person in question or anyone acting on their behalf to contact the Fund directly in relation to their case.

Health Services

Joe Carey

Question:

172 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of funding that was allocated to the Health Service Executive for County Clare from 2006 to 2009 for the purposes of providing speech therapy; the number of clients that accessed the service in the same period broken down into the different age categories; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21539/10]

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.

Medicinal Products

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

173 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will comment on the assertion that the switching of medications from a branded drug such as fosamax or actonel, for treatment of osteoporosis, to generic alendronate is a false economy as research has shown that persons who were switched to a cheaper version of a generic drug did not show any improvement in their bone density and that patients had side effects with the cheaper generic drug. [21548/10]

Over the past number of weeks I have answered a number of parliamentary questions and representations on this matter. I have made it quite clear on each occasion that with a system of generic substitution, it is important that all decisions about the interchangeability of medicines are evidence-based and take into account best practice elsewhere.

I have received the report of the joint Department of Health and Children/Health Service Executive working group established to set out a proposed model for the implementation of a system of reference pricing combined with generic substitution. The report will be published shortly. The introduction of a system of reference pricing and interchangeable medicines will promote price competition and deliver ongoing savings for both the State and for patients. I expect to see significant progress on this in 2010, including the implementation of legislative and administrative changes required to give it effect in 2011.

Medical Cards

Michael Ring

Question:

174 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved for a medical card. [21571/10]

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.

Inter-Country Adoptions

Finian McGrath

Question:

175 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support the case of persons (details supplied). [21573/10]

It remains my intention to assist 20 named applicants to complete intercountry adoptions in respect of children from Vietnam on an exceptional basis and insofar as it is practicable in law. In communicating the decision to suspend the bilateral negotiations the Irish Government asked the Vietnamese Government whether it will be possible to proceed with these adoptions. The Vietnamese response was not definitive. The Government is attempting to put in place a mechanism in respect of these 20 applicants that safeguards against recent concerns raised in relation to intercountry adoption in Vietnam.

Medical Cards

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

176 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will issue to persons (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21709/10]

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.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

177 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21710/10]

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.

Health Service Staff

Damien English

Question:

178 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the Kells branch of the Health Service Executive delayed the return to work by a career break employee (details supplied); the reason for the delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21720/10]

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.

Water Fluoridation

Enda Kenny

Question:

179 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the studies that have been carried out on the necessity to continue fluoridation of water here; if studies have been carried out on potential inherent dangers in the extent of fluoridation currently in the system; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21721/10]

Enda Kenny

Question:

180 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the extent of fluoridation in the public water system here; the reason for fluoridation of water in 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21722/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 179 and 180 together.

It is estimated that 65% of the population of the State reside in dwellings that are supplied with fluoridated water. A Forum on Fluoridation was established in 2000 to review the fluoridation of public piped water supplies.  The main conclusion of the Forum's Report in 2002 was that the fluoridation of public piped water supplies should continue as a public health measure. Among the studies which support this conclusion was the North South Survey of Children's Oral Health (2002), which showed that tooth decay levels were lower among children who get fluoride in their water supply than among children in Northern Ireland, where there is no water fluoridation.

The European Commission has asked the Scientific Committee on Health and Environmental Risks (SCHER) to review any post-2005 evidence on the hazard profile, health effects, and human exposure to fluoride and to assess the risks that may be associated with the use of most common drinking water fluoridation agents. It is expected that a preliminary opinion will be published shortly.

The Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health, which was established in 2004, monitors new and emerging issues on fluoride and its effects on health and related matters. Its advice, based on a review of all previous and current international and national scientific data, is that the balance of the scientific evidence worldwide confirms that water fluoridation, at the optimal level, is safe and effective for protecting oral health. In May 2007, the World Health Organisation renewed its call for Governments throughout the world to introduce water fluoridation as an efficient public health measure.

Hospital Staff

Joe Carey

Question:

181 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of urologists treating prostate cancer in the public hospital system here along with their location; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21727/10]

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

Joe Carey

Question:

182 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to increase the number of urologists in line with the 2005 Comhairle na n-Oispidéal report on urology services in Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21728/10]

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 Prescriptions

Paul Kehoe

Question:

183 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on doctors writing prescriptions for patients on medical cards month after month, without seeing the patient; her plans to forbid doctors issuing prescriptions without physically seeing the patient; her further views on whether doctors continue to write prescriptions for patients who may be on medication which should be limited to a certain period of time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21736/10]

Section 18 of the Form of Agreement with registered medical practitioners for the provision of services under section 58 of the Health Act 1970 (General Medical Services Scheme — GMS patients) states “The medical practitioner shall prescribe such drugs and medicines as he considers necessary for any person for whom he is obliged to provide services.”

Following discussions with the Irish Medical Organisation and the Irish Pharmaceutical Union, a repeat prescription facility, whereby prescriptions for certain drugs and medicines require renewal on a three monthly, rather than a monthly, basis, was introduced on 1 March 1991. Under this scheme, patients who are stabilized on their medication no longer need to visit their general practitioner every month in order to have their prescriptions renewed. Changes in GMS prescriptions from monthly to quarterly for suitable patients have created efficiencies for general practitioners and patients, by reducing unnecessary consultations and journeys to the GP and pharmacy.

Under the Medical Practitioners Acts, 1978 and 2007, the Medical Council is responsible for protecting the public by promoting and better ensuring high standards of professional conduct and professional education, training and competence among doctors. Doctors must always be guided by their primary responsibility to act in the best interests of their patients.

Departmental Agencies

John O'Mahony

Question:

184 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health and Children the agencies or bodies to which her Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which her Department is responsible in respect of her policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21755/10]

The Agencies funded by my Department in each of the years 2007-2010 as well as those agencies that my Department is administratively responsible for, but who are not directly funded by my Department, are set out in the following tables. The Deputy will also no doubt be aware that the Health Service Executive is accountable to me as Minister for Health & Children. The net amount voted by the Oireachtas in respect of Vote 40 — Health Service Executive is as follows:

2007 — €11,453,895;

2008 — €12,667,159;

2009 — €11,890,719.

In 2010 the Estimate of the HSE is €10,528,581.

Agencies directly funded by Department of Health and Children

Agency

2010

2009

2008

2007

National Council on Ageing***

0

430,000

904,000

1,510,000

National Social Work Qualification Board

538,000

569,000

578,000

573,000

Irish Medicines Board

3,650,000

4,601,922

4,993,000

4,924,000

Post Graduate Medical and Dental Board*

0

0

10,362,000

9,795,000

Board for the Employment of the Blind (Blindcraft)****

0

17,000

10,000

4,717,000

Crisis Pregnancy Agency

0

8,178,000

8,706,000

8,574,000

Food Safety Authority Ireland

17,427,000

18,032,000

18,505,000

18,712,000

Institute of Public Health

1,542,000

1,517,000

1,576,000

1,562,000

Health Information & Quality Authority

14,757,000

11,100,000

14,800,000

6,389,000

Irish Health Safety Accreditation Board.**

0

0

0

843,000

Mental Health Commission

18,190,000

17,950,000

16,600,000

17,380,000

National Cancer Screening Service*

11,000

57,300,000

42,452,000

30,419,000

National Council Professional Development of Nursing & Midwifery

4,162,000

4,285,000

4,473,000

4,200,000

Office of Tobacco Control

1,726,000

1,620,000

1,819,000

2,495,554

Pre Hospital Emergency Care Council

3,161,000

3,281,000

3,438,000

3,414,850

Children’s Acts Advisory Board

1,000

2,199,000

2,314,000

2,232,000

Women’s Health Council***

0

500,000

658,000

654,000

National Treatment Purchase Fund

90,092,000

90,350,000

104,641,000

91,744,000

Food Safety Promotion Board

6,665,000

5,623,000

7,000,000

6,475,000

Health Research Board

34,157,000

35,241,000

36,885,000

36,085,000

Ombudsman for Children

2,223,000

2,310,000

2,409,000

2,080,992

Office of the Disability Appeals Officer

501,000

557,000

0

0

National Cancer Research Board

2,975,000

2,477,000

3,037,000

2,165,000

Health and Social Care Professionals Council

962,000

595,000

315,000

0

2010 figures as per Revised Estimates Volume.

*Transferred to HSE from 1/4/10.

**Subsumed into HIQA in 2007.

***Subsumed into DoHC in 2009.

****Wound Up in 2007.

Other Agencies (Not directly funded by DoHC)

Self-Funded

An Bord Altranais

Self-funded (registration fee)

Dental Council

Self-funded (registration fee)

Medical Council

Self-funded (registration fee)

Irish Blood Transfusion Service

Self-funded through charges for blood and blood products

Health Insurance Authority

Self-funded through industry contribution

Opticians Board

Self-funded (registration fee)

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland Council

Self-funded (registration fee)

Other

Adoption Board

Part of Department — Vote 39

Hepatitis C and HIV Compensation Tribunal

DoHC-DoF funding through special accounts

Voluntary Health Insurance Board

Commercial State Body — Income from policy premia

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

185 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of unspent money returned by her Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the Departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21784/10]

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the attached tables. In 2007, €55.9m was surrendered to the Department of Finance, €35.7m was surrendered in 2008 and €71.3m in 2009. In areas such as statutory enquiries, legal fees and compensation payments it is very difficult in any year to accurately estimate the level of payments which may fall to be made, therefore, if the allocated amount remains unspent at the end of the year it is surrendered to the Exchequer. Savings on allocations to health agencies have been achieved through efficiency measures and tight financial control. Savings on my Department's Administrative Budget have been achieved through the non-filling of vacant posts and other efficiency measures.

2007 Allocation

2007 Actual

Variance

V39 — Department Of Health And Children (Net)

480,472,000

424,563,643

55,908,357

V39 — Gross

480,852,000

432,999,564

47,852,436

Administration

51,921,000

47,803,254

4,117,746

Health Agencies

264,093,000

258,141,904

5,951,096

Statutory & Non Statutory Inquiries & Legal Fees

19,458,000

11,953,261

7,504,739

Compensation Payments (Inc. Hep C)

75,986,000

64,245,500

11,740,500

Others

8,839,000

7,541,230

1,297,770

State Claims Agency

17,555,000

10,925,393

6,629,607

Capital

43,000,000

32,389,021

10,610,979

V39 — Appropriations In Aid

380,000

8,435,921

-8,055,921

D — Appropriations In Aid

380,000

8,435,921

-8,055,921

2008 Allocation

2008 Actual

Variance

V39 — Department Of Health And Children (Net)

533,382,000

497,675,703

35,706,297

V39 — Gross

533,383,000

501,689,772

31,693,228

Administration

46,880,000

40,116,552

6,763,448

Health Agencies

304,904,000

292,815,962

12,088,038

Statutory & Non Statutory Inquiries & Legal Fees

47,294,000

20,053,807

27,240,193

Compensation Payments (Inc. Hep C)

76,031,000

76,012,949

18,051

Others

9,173,000

7,699,143

1,473,857

State Claims Agency

25,000,000

42,608,076

-17,608,076

Capital

24,100,000

22,383,283

1,716,717

V39 — Appropriations In Aid

1,000

4,014,069

-4,013,069

D — Appropriations In Aid

1,000

4,014,069

-4,013,069

2009 Allocation

2009 Actual

Variance

V39 — Department Of Health And Children (Net)

491,174,000

419,836,114

71,337,886

V39 – Gross

495,490,000

425,436,507

70,053,493

Administration

43,129,000

37,499,828

5,629,172

Health Agencies

290,742,000

269,504,253

21,237,747

Statutory & Non Statutory Inquiries & Legal Fees

32,074,000

13,000,119

19,073,881

Compensation Payments (Inc. Hep C)

76,031,000

54,574,175

21,456,825

Others

8,514,000

7,580,426

933,574

State Claims Agency

30,000,000

29,979,194

20,806

Capital

15,000,000

13,298,512

1,701,489

V39 — Appropriations In Aid

4,316,000

5,600,393

-1,284,393

D — Appropriations In Aid

4,316,000

5,600,393

-1,284,393

Hospital Waiting Lists

Damien English

Question:

186 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of public patients waiting for their initial consultation at outpatient clinics; if she will provide a breakdown for each speciality at each public hospital where such consultations occur in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21796/10]

Damien English

Question:

187 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children the length of time public patients must wait for their initial consultation at outpatient clinics; if she will provide a breakdown for each speciality at each public hospital where such consultations occur in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21797/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 186 and 187 together.

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.

Ambulance Service

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

188 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 125 of 18 May 2010, if she will confirm that the Health Service Executive holds copies of, or has confirmed the existence of Garda vetting forms for all ambulance personnel that are, at the direction of the HSE, involved in the transport and treatment of public and private patients; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21798/10]

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

189 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will confirm that all of the seven private ambulance companies that are carrying out services for the Health Service Executive have been inspected; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21800/10]

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

191 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to tier the ambulance sector in order to provide a more efficient and effective service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21803/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 188, 189 and 191 together.

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 the matters raised remain of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise them with the HSE again in due course.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

190 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive has target response times for all public, private and voluntary ambulance services; if they are monitored and recorded and available for public inspection; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21802/10]

The HSE target ambulance response times from the National Service Plan for 2010 are outlined in the table below. I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action it is not possible for the Executive to supply current performance data for the ambulance services. However if this matter remains of continuing concern to you, I would invite you to raise it with the HSE again in due course. HIQA in conjunction with the HSE and PHECC is at present working to develop additional time-based performance standards and indicators in relation to pre-hospital emergency response. The HSE has no role in setting performance targets for private or voluntary ambulance services.

Response Times

Reported

Expected Activity/Target 2009

Projected Outturn 2009

Expected Activity/Target 2010

Total number of Ambulance Transfers

Emergency

Monthly

225,000

205,367

205,000

Urgent

Monthly

68,000

61,567

62,000

Non-urgent

Monthly

202,000

251,371

188,000

Community

Monthly

343,763

280,000

Responded to within pre-determined time bands

< 8 minutes

Monthly

32%

30%

32%

< 14 minutes

Monthly

63%

60%

63%

< 19 minutes

Monthly

79%

73%

79%

< 26 minutes

Monthly

86%

84%

86%

Question No. 191 answered with Question No. 188.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

192 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if ambulances are to be included in regulation of hospitals by the Health and Information Quality Authority; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21804/10]

My Department is currently working on the preparation of legislation for the licensing of health care providers, based on standards to be set by the Health Information and Quality Authority. The licensing of ambulance services will be considered in this context.

Child Care Services

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

193 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that as of 1 January 2010 the 116000 number reserved by the EU for an EU-wide missing children hotline service has been assigned to service providers in 12 countries and is functioning in 11; if she is concerned that Ireland is not amongst these and if she will take the immediate steps necessary including making the necessary funding available to enable the 116000 hotline to be up and running in Ireland on an island wide basis. [21806/10]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

194 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps required to give effect to the new Article 27a relating to 116 numbers in Directive 2002/22/EC which requires member states to make every effort to ensure citizens have access to a service operating a hotline to report cases of missing children and when she intends to stop delaying and deliver on this. [21809/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 193 and 194 together.

I have discussed the proposal to put in place a hotline for missing children that is operational in some EU Member States with members of charitable organisations and non-governmental organisations with a view to providing some level of service. I will keep the Deputy informed of developments in this regard.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

195 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children who went missing from Health Service Executive care and the location they were found at in these circumstances. [21812/10]

I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action in the public service by members of IMPACT, the HSE is not in a position to provide a response to this Parliamentary Question within the normal timeframe.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

196 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health and Children if she is concerned that the Health Service Executive is in denial regarding the risk of trafficking to children in its care; and the steps she will take to address this grave matter. [21813/10]

It is a matter of great concern that a number of children go missing after they enter the State. Separated children going missing from care is not a phenomenon unique to Ireland. The issue of separated children who go missing from care is complex. There has been a tendency to equate all missing children with trafficking. However the HSE advise that there is evidence to indicate that some of these individuals may be adults who disappeared before a comprehensive age assessment process could be undertaken by the HSE. It has been acknowledged by the HSE and also by other relevant statutory agencies that there are several factors that may contribute to the disappearance of a child from care and these are the following:

The child's appeal for asylum has been refused and he/she is nearing eighteen and is reacting to the pending threat of repatriation.

The person has been smuggled into the country to join the workforce on a consensual basis and is availing of the child protection service as a fast track route into the State.

The child has been trafficked into the State by traffickers using the child protection service as a route.

The HSE has developed a strong working relationship with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (G.N.I.B.) in relation to missing children. The level of interagency cooperation between the H.S.E. and the G.N.I.B. has been consistently high and has intensified in recent years. A Joint National Protocol on Children who go missing from care has been agreed between the Garda and the H.S.E.. Several meetings have taken place between H.S.E. management, the G.N.I.B., and local Garda to adapt this protocol in terms of application to separated children who go missing. The following measures were agreed:

Collaborative interviewing at the ports between social workers and Gardaí.

Fingerprinting of persons presenting as underage at the ports, for tracking purposes.

Planned Garda surveillance of those at risk of going missing from the point of presentation at ports to the initial placement period in hostels.

Monitoring of the notification system of missing persons to local Gardaí to be closely monitored by Garda Inspectors.

Joint training of H.S.E. staff and Gardaí/ G.N.I.B. staff in relation to children at high risk of going missing.

Sharing of photographic evidence between H.S.E. and Gardaí.

My Office and the H.S.E. have also worked closely with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform on the development of the National Action Plan on Anti-Human Trafficking and I am committed to ensuring that we play an active part in combating trafficking as outlined in this plan.

In addition the Implementation Plan arising from the Report of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse, 2009 contains a commitment that separated children will be accommodated in mainstream care, instead of hostels by December 2010. This move from hostel accommodation to residential and foster care should help to ensure that fewer children go missing. The HSE is phasing out the hostel arrangements and putting in place appropriate 24 hour care staff arrangements in the remaining hostels until they are closed. A number of hostels have already closed and the remaining ones are to close this year.

I am satisfied that the efforts made by the HSE and GNIB to address concerns regarding separated children are yielding some progress. Both agencies are committed to intensifying their joint work in this area with a view to preventing children from going missing and locating those who do.

Nursing Homes Support Scheme

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

197 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has received representations from charitable organisations regarding the rate being offered to them by the National Treatment Purchase Fund for the care of residents under the nursing home scheme; if she will consider the difficulties posed in these circumstances; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21816/10]

I can confirm that the Minister for Health and Children has received representations from a small number of voluntary organisations regarding the rate for the cost of care being offered to them by the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF). However, I understand that, of the small number of voluntary organisations currently negotiating with the NTPF, at least two of these have recently concluded agreements.

As the Deputy is aware, the Nursing Homes Support Scheme commenced in October 2009. The commencement of the scheme brought about a fundamental change in the way in which long-term nursing home care is funded and, consequently, the way in which nursing homes and community hospitals, including the voluntary organisations referred to by the Deputy, are funded. In the past, many of these facilities were allocated a lump sum annually. In contrast, the new scheme supports the individuals in need of long-term residential care, not the facilities providing the care. This means that funding follows the patients and ensures that these facilities are not being funded for empty beds.

The legislation underpinning the Nursing Homes Support Scheme requires all nursing homes, including any facility which previously received funding under Section 39 of the Health Act 2004, to negotiate and agree a price for the cost of care with the NTPF should they wish to participate in the scheme. This is a necessary feature of the scheme due to the commitment by the State to meet the full balance of the cost of care over and above a person's contribution. The NTPF has statutory responsibility for the negotiation of prices and is independent in the performance of its function. In carrying out this function, the NTPF has particular responsibility to ensure value for money for both the individual and the State.

Finally, as stated above, the Nursing Homes Support Scheme only applies to long-term nursing home care. Nursing homes and community hospitals can continue to have separate agreements with the HSE for the provision of other services, e.g. day care, respite and convalescence.

Health Services

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

198 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if changes are proposed to prosthetic and orthotic services, which will require referral to a rehabilitation consultant; the reason this might be proposed and the way in which it will affect current services and service providers; if she will ensure there is full consultation in advance of any change; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21817/10]

I regret 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, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course. However, both my Department and the Health Service Executive are concerned to ensure that rehabilitation services and the structure of same are the most efficient and appropriate. This led to the setting up of a working group to develop a National Strategy for the Provision of Rehabilitation Services. The group is expected to report shortly.

Finian McGrath

Question:

199 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a service at a school (details supplied) in Dublin. [21819/10]

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.

Billy Timmins

Question:

200 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow. [21830/10]

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.

Adoption Services

Denis Naughten

Question:

201 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the interim measures she will put in place in respect of foreign adoption applicants who have submitted applications in advance of the enactment of the Adoption Bill 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21834/10]

The Adoption Bill, 2009, is designed to give force of law to the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Inter-country Adoption. The new legislation, which incorporates the provisions of the Hague Convention, is designed to provide a framework to ensure that appropriate procedures have been followed and that all adoptions are effected in the best interests of the child. Future intercountry adoption arrangements will be governed by the terms of the Adoption Bill 2009 when enacted. I brought forward at Committee stage an amendment to the Adoption Bill 2009 that will enable prospective adoptive parents to proceed with an adoption from a non-Hague or non-bilateral country, if prior to the establishment date, they have been issued with a Declaration of Eligibility and Suitability to adopt. The proposed amendment requires that the Adoption Authority (to be set up under the Act) would be satisfied that the particular adoption meets all the standards of the Hague Convention.

Hospital Services

Bernard Allen

Question:

202 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans for the former Erinville Maternity Hospital located on Western Road, Cork. [21871/10]

Bernard Allen

Question:

203 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children her future plans for the Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital at Western Road, Cork. [21872/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 202 and 203 together.

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.

Medicinal Products

Chris Andrews

Question:

204 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person is entitled to refuse a prescription from their general practitioner for a generic drug, when the person would strongly prefer being prescribed the brand name drug they have previously been prescribed. [21873/10]

The prescribing of a proprietary medicine or a generic medicine is a matter for the prescriber in consultation with the patient.

Hospital Services

Sean Sherlock

Question:

205 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will review a decision not to grant financial assistance to a person (details supplied) in County Cork in respect of hospital visits; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21881/10]

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 the HSE again in due course.

Children in Care

Finian McGrath

Question:

206 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support the right to after-care for young people who leave State care (details supplied). [21890/10]

I am currently giving consideration to the legal position with regard to the provision of aftercare services, having regard to the existing legislative provisions as set out in the Childcare Act 1991. I met recently with Focus Ireland in this regard and had a constructive exchange of views and discussion on these matters.

I have received legal advice which confirms that the obligation contained in Section 45(4) of the Child Care Act 1991 is in substance mandatory. The legal advice is that the Act creates a statutory power and the HSE, as recipient of this power, must put itself in a position where it can exercise the power should the need arise. Section 45(4) of the Child Care Act allows me to write to the HSE and instruct it in this or in any other regard. I intend to do this and will in parallel continue to examine legislative options. In line with the Government commitment as reflected in the Ryan Implementation Plan funding of €1.0m was set aside by the HSE in its 2010 Service Plan, for the development of aftercare services in 2010.

Cancer Screening Programme

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

207 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that at least 40,000 letters were returned to the cervical cancer screening programme in March and April 2010 due to fact that they were addressed incorrectly or because the addressees had moved; if the database in question is used for other purposes by the Health Service Executive or other agencies, in which case other important correspondence may be missed by would be recipients; the action she will take; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21892/10]

I am aware of the issue raised by the Deputy. The NCSS has launched an investigation into this matter and it will provide a full statement once the investigation is complete. The NCSS has assured me that the return of these unopened letters has had no adverse overall impact on uptake levels for the CervicalCheck Programme, which aims for an uptake level of 80% in the target population. During 2009 CervicalCheck aimed to screen 240,000 women, but in fact approximately 280,000 women were screened. Uptake levels in 2010 continue to reach projected monthly targets.

The reason for letters not reaching the intended person relate mainly to population mobility. There are over 1.2 million women aged 25 to 60 eligible for a free smear test as part of the CervicalCheck programme. As there is no central population database in Ireland, CervicalCheck has assembled a register from information supplied by the Department of Social Protection and self registration of women. The database used by CervicalCheck is known as the Cervical Screening Register (CSR). The CSR is a confidential, secure electronic database containing demographic details and screening history details of women in the eligible population. The Health (Provision of Information) Act 1997 provides the legislative framework for the compilation of the CSR.

CervicalCheck communicates with every woman whose details are provided and relies upon the accuracy of such information. If communications are not responded to, the NCSS sends a number of subsequent reminder letters to ensure that every effort is made to contact eligible women. CervicalCheck encourages any woman who changes her address to notify the programme of the change in her details. I understand that the information held on the CSR is used only by CervicalCheck and is not shared with any other agency.

Medical Cards

John O'Donoghue

Question:

208 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive the result of their application for a medical card. [21897/10]

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.

Health Services

Joe Carey

Question:

209 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare may expect to have an assessment for a hearing aid which they applied for in October 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21925/10]

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.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

210 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21930/10]

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

Damien English

Question:

211 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of operations cancelled at Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan, County Meath, in 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010 in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21942/10]

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

Michael D'Arcy

Question:

212 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an appeal for medical card services in respect of persons (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21958/10]

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 Waiting Lists

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

213 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath will be called for an appointment with a child psychologist. [22105/10]

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.

General Medical Services Scheme

Michael D'Arcy

Question:

214 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Health and Children if persons who have started dental treatment procedures under the general medical card scheme and are in the middle of a treatment process can be allowed to proceed to finish the treatment with their dentist under the medical card scheme. [22116/10]

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.

Air Services

Seán Barrett

Question:

215 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that an airline (details supplied) is requiring passengers whose flights were cancelled as a result of the volcanic ash cloud situation to wait 28 days to receive refunds of their flight costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21456/10]

Regulation (EC) 261/2004 established common European rules on compensation and assistance to passengers in the event of cancellation or long delay of flights or in the event of being denied boarding.

The Regulation has direct application in Member States and the Commission for Aviation Regulation has been designated as the National Enforcement Body for the Regulation in the State. The Commission for Aviation Regulation is the competent body to enforce the provisions of the Regulation arising from cancellations due to depart from Ireland; for travellers whose cancelled flights were due to depart from other Member States, the relevant national enforcement body would be the body designated by that Member State. Passengers must apply to their airline in the first instance to claim their entitlements. If airlines do not comply with the law and passengers fail to receive their entitlements, then the Commission for Aviation Regulation can take enforcement action.

Driving Licences

Michael McGrath

Question:

216 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the issuing of reminder letters to holders of a driving licence (details supplied). [21387/10]

Renewal reminder letters for driving licences about to expire, using data from the National Vehicle Driver File (NVDF), are issued directly by my Department. An external service provider is not involved in the process.

Rail Services

Brian O'Shea

Question:

217 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Transport asked the Minister for Transport if he will give details of the discussions (details supplied) he has had regarding the future of the Waterford to Rosslare railway line; the outcome of these discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21414/10]

I have had a number of conversations with Minister of State, Ciarán Cuffe regarding this issue. The matter referred to is an operational matter for C.I.E.

Tuskar Rock Air Crash

Brian O'Shea

Question:

218 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Transport the names of those who attended the meeting at the Ministry of Defence in Brawdy, Wales on the afternoon of the Tuskar Rock accident (details supplied) 24 March 1968; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21439/10]

The information sought is not readily available in my Department. To be of assistance to the Deputy, I have asked that a comprehensive search be carried out of the relevant files from the period in question. As the number of files is significant, this will take some time. I will communicate further with the Deputy when this search has been completed.

Public Transport

Joe McHugh

Question:

219 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Transport the amount of public service obligation funding that is allocated to Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann and Iarnród Éireann for 2010; the percentage funding that is given to private operators north of Letterkenny, north of Dungloe, and on the Inishowen Peninsula, County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21514/10]

The allocation of the Public Service Obligation (PSO) provision for 2010 has been agreed between the National Transport Authority (NTA) and the CIÉ operating companies as follows:

Iarnród Éireann, €155.43 million;

Bus Átha Cliath, €75.90 million;

Bus Éireann, €44.69 million.

CIÉ has a statutory mandate under various Transport Acts to provide PSO services passenger services. The NTA governs the funding of these PSO services through the Public Service Contracts which are in place between Iarnród Éireann, Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus. These contracts set strict standards for operational performance and customer service and contain penalties for non-performance. Currently no Exchequer funding is provided to private operators but it is expected that the NTA would tender any new routes requiring additional public subsidy over and above that provided for within existing PSO contracts.

Question No. 220 withdrawn.

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

221 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Transport the agencies or bodies to which his Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which his Department is responsible in respect of his policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21759/10]

John O'Mahony

Question:

222 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Transport the amount of unspent money returned by his Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21789/10]

I propose to answer Questions Nos. 221 and 222 together.

Exchequer funding has been allocated under Vote 32 to the following agencies under the remit of my Department since 2007:

State Body

Vote 32 Funding 2007

Vote 32 Funding 2008

Vote 32 Funding 2009

Vote 32 Funding 2010

€000

€000

€000

€000

CIE Group

776,269

911,036

726,808

496,129

Railway Safety Commission

2,090

2,078

2,014

400

Railway Procurement Agency

11,000

10,958

10,598

29,748

National Roads Authority

1,782,874

1,679,461

1,470,009

1,636,324

Dublin Transportation Office / NTA

41,593

59,017

38,472

353,512

Road Safety Authority

31,124

39,704

32,835

28,746

Medical Bureau of Road Safety

5,911

4,448

4,363

4,557

Marine Casualty Investigation Board

300

250

200

250

In addition to the figures shown above, the following funding has been allocated to regional harbours for remedial works in the last four years:

2007 €10.5m;

2008 €3.705m;

2009 €3.699m;

2010 €4.1m.

More detailed information in relation to the total Departmental budget, individual Subheads, the amounts provided and the outturn for each year can be found in the relevant Revised Estimates Volume, published by the Department of Finance and available on its website. Up to 10% of an unspent capital allocation can be carried over into the following year. Where this occurs the relevant information is also published in the Estimates. The reasons for material variations in any Departmental Subheads are set out in the Annual Appropriation Accounts which are available on the website of the Comptroller and Auditor General. In addition, detailed budgetary information in relation to the agencies under the remit of my Department can be found in their annual reports and accounts.

Air Services

Pat Breen

Question:

223 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Transport, further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 647 of 3 November 2009, which stated that the International Civil Aviation Organisation would conduct a comprehensive audit of Ireland’s system for safety oversight of civil aviation early in 2010, if the ICAO audit in question has been completed and is available for public inspection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21827/10]

The audit referred to by the Deputy is the comprehensive safety oversight audit conducted by ICAO under the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP). The USOAP aims to promote global aviation safety through auditing of the Contracting States' capability for safety oversight. The audit consists of three phases, a preparatory phase, an "on-site" phase and a reporting and follow-up stage.

The ICAO Audit Team's on-site visit, from 12th-23rd March 2010, consisted of an audit of the organization, processes, procedures and programmes established and maintained by the State to help it fulfil its safety oversight obligations under the Chicago Convention. I understand that the outcome of the audit reflected positively on the oversight of aviation safety in Ireland. The next step in the process is the reporting and follow-up stage, during which ICAO will forward an interim report for consideration. Subsequently, the State will provide an action plan on the findings of the report to ICAO. ICAO will make the final report available to all Contracting States through the secure website of ICAO in November/December 2010. When the audit process has been completed, I will make the final report available for public inspection.

State Airports

Pat Breen

Question:

224 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Transport, further to Parliamentary Question No. 198 of 5 May 2010, to provide the precise distance the Red Zone in question commences from the threshold of the runway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21828/10]

I have been in contact with the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) in relation to this matter. I have been advised by the IAA that the "Red Zone" at the eastern end of runway 10/28 commences 60 metres from the existing runway threshold. The IAA has further advised that all "Red Zones" were established based on the longest length of runway including all future expansion. With regard to the western end of Runway 10/28, there is provision for a 400 metre extension at Dublin Airport, and the "Red Zone" on the Fingal County Development Plan is positioned based on the maximum length this runway can be extended to.

Aviation Safety

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

225 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport the tests that were carried out by the Irish Aviation Authority prior to the changing of the guidelines on air travel through volcanic ash conditions this week; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21926/10]

The issue raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for the IAA and one in which I have no function. I understand that the Chief Executive of the IAA, Mr. Eamonn Brennan, has recently provided comprehensive information on this issue to the Deputy at his request.

Visa Applications

Dan Neville

Question:

226 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21356/10]

The visa application referred to by the Deputy was approved by the Embassy of Ireland, London on 18 May 2010.

Citizenship Applications

Brian O'Shea

Question:

227 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason an application for a certificate of naturalisation was refused in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21357/10]

A valid application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in October 2007 and I decided in my absolute discretion not to grant a certificate of naturalisation. The person in question was informed of this decision and the reasons for refusal in a letter issued to him on 7 May, 2010. It is open to the person concerned to lodge a new application for a certificate of naturalisation with the Citizenship Division of my Department at any time; however, he should bear in mind the reasons for refusal of his previous application.

Residency Permits

Leo Varadkar

Question:

228 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will assist a person (details supplied) in obtaining a new unconditional residency stamp on their new passport. [21366/10]

I have been informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service of my Department that a person residing in the State on a Without Condition endorsement may have it transferred to a new passport by making an appointment with, or by forwarding their passports by registered post to, the General Immigration Division of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service. It is open to the person concerned to forward their expired and current passports to the General Immigration Division by registered post or by writing to the Division requesting an appointment. Further information regarding the renewal of a Without Condition endorsement may be found on the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service website, www.inis.gov.ie.

Asylum Applications

Phil Hogan

Question:

229 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will issue on an application for subsidiary protection in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21385/10]

The person concerned applied for asylum on 13 December 2005. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until his application for asylum was decided. His asylum application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.

Arising from the refusal of his asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 23 November 2006, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why a Deportation Order should not be made against him. In addition, he was notified of his entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006). The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations and this application is under consideration at present. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome.

In the event that the application for Subsidiary Protection is refused, the position in the State of the person concerned will then be decided by reference to the provisions of Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. All representations submitted will be considered before the file is passed to me for decision. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.

Phil Hogan

Question:

230 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will issue on an application for subsidiary protection in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21388/10]

The person concerned applied for asylum on 20 January 2005. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until his application for asylum was decided. His asylum application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.

Arising from the refusal of his asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 27 February 2009, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why a Deportation Order should not be made against him. In addition, he was notified of his entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006). The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations and this application is under consideration at present. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome.

In the event that the application for Subsidiary Protection is refused, the position in the State of the person concerned will then be decided by reference to the provisions of Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. All representations submitted will be considered before the file is passed to me for decision. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.

Prison Building Programme

Michael McGrath

Question:

231 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the development of a new prison at Kilworth, County Cork; and if there are any plans to bring to tender the design stage of the project. [21389/10]

The Irish Prison Service is committed to the replacement of Cork Prison with a modern prison complex at Kilworth, County Cork on a site previously owned by the Department of Defence. While the project has not advanced to detailed design stage, it is anticipated that the capacity of the new prison will be in the region of 450.

A preliminary site suitability report was conducted which included reviewing its archaeology, flora and fauna, road/infrastructure, topography etc. These preliminary surveys confirmed that there are no significant constraints to the development of the site. The next step in the appraisal process is the preparation of a detailed business case in relation to the project. The business case will examine the various procurement options including a public private partnership option. The advice of the National Development Finance Agency will also be sought in relation to the project. It is intended to commence preliminary planning and design work on the project this year and to deliver the project on a phased basis. All aspects of the project, including the design phase and construction will be procured by means of a public tender process.

Asylum Applications

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

232 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will allow a person (details supplied) in Dublin 1 leave to remain in the State due to their medical condition and having been here for five years. [21400/10]

The person concerned applied for asylum on 6 May 2005. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until his application for asylum was decided. His asylum application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.

Arising from the refusal of his asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 16 March 2006, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why a Deportation Order should not be made against him. In addition, he was notified, by letter dated 20 February 2008, of his entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006). The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations and this application is under consideration at present. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome.

In the event that the application for Subsidiary Protection is refused, the position in the State of the person concerned will then be decided by reference to the provisions of Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. All representations, including medical information, submitted will be considered before the file is passed to me for decision. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.

Citizenship Applications

Brian O'Shea

Question:

233 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for naturalisation in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21410/10]

A valid application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in March 2007. All valid applications are dealt with in chronological order as this is deemed to be the fairest to all applicants. The average processing time from application to decision is now at 26 months. More complicated cases can at times take more than the current average, while an element of straight forward cases can be dealt with in less than that timescale. Officials in the Citizenship Division inform me that processing of the application is ongoing and the file will be submitted to me for a decision in due course.

The length of time taken to process each application should not be classified as a delay, as the length of time taken for any application to be decided is purely a function of the time taken to carry out necessary checks. There is a limit to the reduction in the processing time that can be achieved as applications for naturalisation must be processed in a way which preserves the necessary checks and balances to ensure that it is not undervalued and is only given to persons who genuinely satisfy the necessary qualifying criteria.

Prison Building Programme

Leo Varadkar

Question:

234 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the Thornton Hall prison project, County Dublin; the costs incurred to date both in terms of land purchase and other matters; the estimated final cost; the estimated date of completion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21416/10]

The development of the new prison campus at Thornton Hall, County Dublin is proceeding on a phased basis. Phase one comprises essential enabling works required for the prison development. These works include the construction of the dedicated access road, perimeter security wall and various off-site services. Phase two of the project comprises the various prisoner accommodation blocks, workshops, education facilities and administration buildings.

Tenders for the design and construction of the access road to serve the prison development were issued in March this year. The competition is still in progress and it is anticipated that contract award will take place in June with construction work commencing on site in July. It is intended that tender documents for various off-site works will be issued later this month with construction work expected to commence in September this year. The tender documentation for the design and construction of the perimeter wall of the prison is currently at an advanced stage of preparation. It is intended to invite tenders for this phase of the project by the end of September with the construction work commencing immediately following the completion of the access road in January 2011. The construction of the perimeter wall is estimated to take about 12 months to complete.

The National Development Finance Agency acting on behalf of the Irish Prison Service, has initiated an EU wide tender competition for the appointment of multi-disciplinary technical advisors for the project. The technical advisors will develop the output specification and other tender documents which will be the subject of a tender competition later this year. It is anticipated that the prison will be operational by late 2015.

In relation to expenditure on the project, a total of €42.24 million has been expended on the project to end March 2010. This sum includes the site cost of €29.9 million. The cost of the site was offset by the sale of surplus prison lands at Shanganagh, County Dublin. An additional 8.7 acres has also been acquired at a cost of €1.3 million to provide a dedicated access route to the main prison site. This was done following representations from the local community which reflected concern in relation to the potential effect of increased traffic generated by the prison development.

This sum also includes €7.095 million expended on professional fees, €2.919 million on site preparation and various surveys, €0.468 million on landscaping and €0.553 million on security. As is the case with all major infrastructure projects a comprehensive set of geological, engineering and archaeological surveys have been undertaken at the site. These surveys will help to reduce the overall construction programme once a contract for the construction of the prison is awarded. In relation to the overall costs of the prison development, it would not be appropriate, for commercial and procurement reasons, to disclose details of the overall cost of the new prison as the project will be the subject of an EU wide tender competition later this year.

Visa Applications

James Reilly

Question:

235 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason the spouse of a person who is an Irish citizen (details supplied) was refused a joint spouse visa; the length of time the appeal will take; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21430/10]

The visa application reference number 2187482 referred to by the Deputy was received in the Visa Office, Cairo on the 12 July 2009. Following consideration by a Visa Officer, the application was refused on the 6 August 2009. The application was refused for the following reasons:

INCO:— Inconsistencies e.g. contradictions in the information supplied — The person referred to made a visa application for a ‘Join-Spouse (Irish National)', however in supporting documentation submitted with the application a ‘visit Visa' is mentioned several times and also a request for a ‘Long Stay Visa'. It is therefore very unclear as to what visa was actually applied for. The person referred to was advised that if applying for a ‘Join Spouse Visa', they must appeal this decision. If however applying for a ‘Visit Visa' they should make a new application. In addition, if applying for a ‘visit Visa' they should visit the following website which sets out the details in regards to application www.embassyofireland.org.

This application was appealed on 24 August 2009 and the decision to refuse the application was upheld by the visa appeal officer on 24 August 2009. The visa application reference number 3123752 referred to by the Deputy was received in the Visa Office, Cairo on the 1 December 2009. Following consideration by a Visa Officer, the application was refused on the 17 December 2009. The application was refused for the following reasons:

F:— Finances:— evidence provided was deemed insufficient or incomplete — has not submitted 6 months bank statements of reference in Ireland; has not submitted 3 pay-slips from reference in Ireland; has not submitted the P60 of reference in Ireland for 2008.

RH:— Relationship History — Has not shown evidence of a relationship being in existence prior to visa application/marriage. Note: For immigration purposes it is not sufficient for a relationship to have developed over the internet or by telephone/sms. A relationship must include a number of face to face meetings (excluding webcam) between the parties. Applicants must satisfy the Visa Officer that the relationship is bona-fide.

The visa application reference number 3696062 referred to by the Deputy was received in the Visa Office, Cairo on the 16 March 2010. Following consideration by a Visa Officer, the application was refused on the 13 April 2010. The application was refused for the following reasons:

F:— Finances:— evidence provided is deemed insufficient or incomplete.

IS:— Immigration status of the reference in Ireland. Evidence of this has not been provided — copy of passport of reference OB:— Obligations to return to home country not shown — e.g., no social, economic or professional ties in home country shown.

OC:— Observe the conditions of the visa — the visa sought is for a specific purpose and duration— the applicant has not satisfied the Visa Officer that such conditions would be observed.

Concerning application 3696062, it is open to the persons concerned to appeal the decision of the Visa Officer within two months of the date of refusal, in this case before the 13 June 2010. Comprehensive information on all aspects of the visa application process and the documents required is available on the website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (www.inis.gov.ie). Each individual visa application is considered on its individual merits, with the onus resting with the applicant to satisfy the Visa Officer as to why a visa should be granted.

Garda Communications

Leo Varadkar

Question:

236 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 179 of 13 May 2010, the categories of crime for which the PULSE system generates a reference number and letter that is sent to the person reporting the crime; the categories of crime that are not covered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21433/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

237 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 179 of 13 May 2010, if a unique reference number is given to crime reported directly to the Garda station by telephone or in person rather than using the emergency telephone number; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21434/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 236 and 237 together.

In the time available it has not been possible for the Garda authorities to provide the specific information requested by the Deputy on this matter. I will be in contact with the Deputy when the information is to hand.

Garda Recruitment

Deirdre Clune

Question:

238 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Garda Síochána is affected by the recruitment ban; if the Garda College will run a course to train new gardaí in 2010; the number of recruits such a course will take in 2010; the closing date for applications; when the course will begin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21445/10]

The moratorium on public service recruitment applies to the Garda Síochána. The Garda Commissioner is closely monitoring the levels of Garda strength around the country, taking into account the level of retirements and recent attestations of students. I will continue to consult with my colleague the Minister for Finance on when a resumption of Garda recruitment will be necessary so as to keep Garda numbers up to approved levels. In all this, my priority is to maintain Garda operational strength. A necessary first step will be a competition to establish a panel of approved candidates and, as I recently indicated, I believe that this should take place later this year.

Garda Strength

Deirdre Clune

Question:

239 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí who have retired, resigned and left the force over the past 12 months; the breakdown by rank of those that have left; the number of recruits that graduated within the same 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21446/10]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that, over the period 01 May 2009 to 30 April 2010 there was a total of 641 Departures from the Force. The following tables show the breakdown of those departures. I am further informed by the Garda authorities that, in the same period over 1,000 members graduated.

Rank

Totals

Category

Totals

Commissioner

Deputy Commissioner

Compulsory Retirements

3

Assistant Commissioner

3

Voluntary Retirements

589

Chief Superintendent

12

Resignations

22

Superintendent

22

Medical Discharges

14

Inspector

21

Deaths

11

Sergeant

160

Dismissals

1

Garda

423

Resignations in Lieu of Dismissals

1

Total

641

Totals

641

Deirdre Clune

Question:

240 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí who have retired, resigned and left the force in County Cork over the past 12 months; the breakdown by rank of those that have left; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21447/10]

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that the number of discharges for all ranks in County Cork, (including the Divisions of Cork City, Cork North and Cork West) from the 01 May 2009 to the 20 May 2010 is as set out in the following table.

Rank

A/Com

C/Supt

Supt

Insp

Sgt

Garda

Total

01.05.09 – 20.05.10

1

3

2

15

34

55

Garda Reserve

Deirdre Clune

Question:

241 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the membership of the Garda Reserve for the years 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010 on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21448/10]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of the Garda Reserve in each Garda Division, as at 31 December 2009 and 31 March 2010 was as set out in the tables below. The personnel strength of the Garda Reserve, broken down by Garda Division as at 31 December 2008 is not readily available. However, the personnel strength of the Garda Reserve on that date was 331.

Divisional strength as at 31 December 2009

Division

Strength

Division

Strength

Division

Strength

DMR South Central

34

Tipperary

17

Sligo/Leitrim

9

DMR North Central

21

Cork City

36

Clare

8

DMR North

50

Cork North

7

Mayo

18

DMR East

15

Cork West

8

Galway

30

DMR South

29

Kerry

4

Roscommon/Longford

7

DMR West

46

Limerick

16

Westmeath

10

Kilkenny/Carlow

11

Donegal

12

Meath

8

Wicklow

10

Cavan/Monaghan

7

Kildare

14

Laois/Offaly

11

Louth

15

Waterford

18

Wexford

7

Divisional strength as at 31 March 2010

Division

Strength

Division

Strength

Division

Strength

DMR South Central

36

Tipperary

17

Sligo/Leitrim

13

DMR North Central

21

Cork City

39

Clare

10

DMR North

52

Cork North

12

Mayo

22

DMR East

20

Cork West

10

Galway

38

DMR South

38

Kerry

4

Roscommon/Longford

9

DMR West

45

Limerick

21

Westmeath

10

Kilkenny/Carlow

15

Donegal

13

Meath

11

Wicklow

11

Cavan/Monaghan

11

Kildare

17

Laois/Offaly

12

Louth

20

Waterford

21

Wexford

12

Garda Strength

Deirdre Clune

Question:

242 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí for the years 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010 on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21449/10]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of each Garda Division as at 31 December 2008 and 2009 and 31 March 2010, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was as set out in the following tables. The Garda Síochána's 2008 Policing Plan contained the Commissioner's proposals for re-aligning Garda Divisional boundaries to make them coterminous with local authority boundaries. As a consequence of this work, the geographical areas of Garda Divisions, districts and sub-district stations were realigned while at the same time ensuring that service delivery to the community was maintained to the highest possible standard.

Divisional strength as at 31 December 2008

Division

Strength

Division

Strength

Division

Strength

DMR South Central

787

Tipperary

384

Sligo/Leitrim

318

DMR North Central

715

Cork City

675

Clare

331

DMR North

783

Cork North

299

Mayo

329

DMR East

471

Cork West

309

Galway

453

DMR South

640

Kerry

341

Longford/Westmeath

341

DMR West

788

Limerick

634

Roscommon/Galway

294

Carlow/Kildare

376

Donegal

488

Meath

301

Wicklow

341

Cavan/Monaghan

418

Wexford

278

Laois/Offaly

336

Louth

296

Waterford/Kilkenny

457

Divisional strength as at 31 December 2009

Division

Strength

Division

Strength

Division

Strength

DMR South Central

776

Tipperary

395

Sligo/Leitrim

313

DMR North Central

719

Cork City

700

Clare

336

DMR North

832

Cork North

303

Mayo

309

DMR East

483

Cork West

305

Galway

600

DMR South

642

Kerry

339

Roscommon /Longford

292

DMR West

789

Limerick

635

Westmeath

258

Kilkenny/Carlow

314

Donegal

468

Meath

315

Wicklow

360

Cavan/Monaghan

406

Kildare

321

Laois/Offaly

327

Louth

306

Waterford

309

Wexford

286

Divisional strength as at 31 March 2010

Division

Strength

Division

Strength

Division

Strength

DMR South Central

784

Tipperary

400

Sligo/Leitrim

322

DMR North Central

728

Cork City

696

Clare

337

DMR North

832

Cork North

304

Mayo

315

DMR East

480

Cork West

310

Galway

599

DMR South

648

Kerry

342

Roscommon/Longford

293

DMR West

798

Limerick

645

Westmeath

258

Kilkenny/Carlow

318

Donegal

473

Meath

313

Wicklow

361

Cavan/Monaghan

413

Kildare

330

Laois/Offaly

330

Louth

318

Waterford

307

Wexford

287

Vetting of Personnel

John O'Mahony

Question:

243 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their Garda clearance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21457/10]

The Garda Central Vetting Unit provides employment vetting for a large number of organisations in Ireland registered with the Gardaí for this purpose and which employ persons in a full-time, part-time, voluntary or training capacity to positions where they would have substantial, unsupervised access to children and/or vulnerable adults. I am informed by the Garda Authorities that a vetting application in respect of the person referred to was received by the Vetting Unit. However, the application was incomplete and has been returned to the registered organisation for completion. Once a completed application is received by the Vetting Unit it will be processed accordingly.

Commercial Rent Reviews

Finian McGrath

Question:

244 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support a matter (details supplied). [21465/10]

The Deputy will be aware that I have legislated to prohibit upward only rent reviews in leases entered into on or after 28 February of this year (section 132 of the Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Act 2009). Similar action in relation to existing leases was not possible for legal and constitutional reasons. Nonetheless, I believe that the commencement of that section will have a persuasive effect in relation to those lease arrangements.

In addition, action has been taken to address concerns which have been raised about the ability of tenants to obtain reliable and comprehensive information in the context of the rent review process and a Working Group has been established with the following terms of reference: "To consider the operation of the current system for determining the rent payable on foot of a rent review clause, with particular emphasis on the arbitration process and the adequacy of the information available to all parties and, if necessary, to make such recommendations for change as may seem appropriate." It is envisaged that the Group will report by 30 June, 2010.

Every opportunity is also being taken to stress the need for landlords to take a flexible approach to rent review negotiations which arise in the context of current leases. It has been emphasised repeatedly that there is nothing to stop the parties to existing business leases from varying the terms of their contract and from agreeing to reduce the applicable rent, having regard to their individual circumstances and the realities of the market.

Visa Applications

John O'Mahony

Question:

245 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the delay in processing a visa application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21476/10]

I would refer the Deputy to my Reply to Parliamentary Question No. 112 on 20 May 2010.

Garda Recruitment

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

246 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of serving members of the Garda Síochána who have disabilities; the number of gardaí who have been recruited with disabilities; the number of gardaí who have disabilities arising from incidents related to their work; if arrangements are in place to accommodate members who, for whatever reason, have disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21487/10]

Recruitment in An Garda Síochána is governed by Statutory Regulation namely, the Garda Síochána (Admission & Appointments) Regulations 1988/2005. Following selection by the Public Appointments Commission each applicant must also undergo a physical competency test, a medical examination and character vetting. Section 46(1)(3) of Part 5 of the Disability Act 2005 provides that that part, which deals with Public Service Employment, does not apply to the Garda Síochána. Arrangements have been put in place, where required, to facilitate members with a disability, so they can continue to work. The information requested in relation to the number of Gardaí who have disabilities is not readily available and is being collated at present. When I have this information to hand I will contact the Deputy directly.

Garda Stations

Joe Costello

Question:

247 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the refurbishment of Fitzgibbon Street Garda station, Dublin 1, is due to start; if he will make available the plans or give a briefing to the local community policing forum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21498/10]

The Garda accommodation programme is based on agreed priorities established by An Garda Síochána and it is brought forward in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works, which has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. I am informed by the Garda authorities that, due to its condition, it will be necessary to vacate Fitzgibbon Street Garda Station to facilitate refurbishment of the premises. The Office of Public Works is currently making arrangements to refurbish Mountjoy Garda Station to accommodate personnel from Fitzgibbon Street Station during the relevant period and it is expected that this work will commence shortly.

I am further advised that at the Community Policing Forum meeting on 24 February last, local Garda management provided a briefing to the local community regarding the arrangements which will apply when Gardaí attached to Fitzgibbon Street commence operating out of Mountjoy Garda Station. The next meeting of the Community Policing Forum is scheduled for 26 May 2010 and An Garda Síochána will again be present to discuss any issues of concern to the local community.

Civil Proceedings

James Bannon

Question:

248 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the recourse that a person (details supplied) has to compensate for being held at an institution in County Tipperary against their will; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21512/10]

I can advise the Deputy that if a person considers that a criminal offence was committed against them, that person is free to make a complaint to the Garda Síochána for investigation. If a person considers that he or she suffered a civil wrong including a breach of their constitutional rights, it is open to him or her to take a civil action against the wrongdoer. As the Deputy will fully appreciate it is not open to me to give legal advice to any individual on their particular individual circumstances.

Visa Applications

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

249 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will review the decision to refuse a visa in respect of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21515/10]

The application referred to by the Deputy was received in the Visa Office, Cairo on 18 December 2009. Following consideration by the Visa Officer the application was refused on 12/01/2010. The refusal decision was appealed on 02/03/2010. The Visa Appeal Officer upheld the original decision on 02/03/2010.

It is the policy of the Visa Section of my Department to permit only one appeal for each visa application. Each individual visa application is considered on its individual merits, the onus resting with the applicant to satisfy the Visa Officer as to why a visa should be granted. Comprehensive information with regard to all aspects of the visa application process and the documents required is available on the website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (www.inis.gov.ie). It is open to the individual to make a fresh application if they so wish.

Citizenship Applications

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

250 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the stage of the naturalisation application in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [21534/10]

A valid application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in September 2006 and I decided to defer making any final decision in this case until June 2009. The person concerned was notified of this position and the reasons for it in a letter issued to him on 2 September, 2008. Officials in the Citizenship Division inform me that further processing of the application is ongoing and the file will be re-submitted to me for a decision in the near future.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

251 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for naturalisation in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21541/10]

Officials in the Citizenship section of my Department inform me that there is no record of an application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

252 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding a naturalisation application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21569/10]

A valid application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in May 2008. All valid applications are dealt with in chronological order as this is deemed to be the fairest to all applicants. The average processing time from application to decision is now at 26 months. More complicated cases can at times take more than the current average, while an element of straight forward cases can be dealt with in less than that timescale. Officials in the Citizenship Division inform me that further processing of the application is ongoing and the file will be submitted to me for a decision in due course.

The length of time taken to process each application should not be classified as a delay, as the length of time taken for any application to be decided is purely a function of the time taken to carry out necessary checks. There is a limit to the reduction in the processing time that can be achieved as applications for naturalisation must be processed in a way which preserves the necessary checks and balances to ensure that it is not undervalued and is only given to persons who genuinely satisfy the necessary qualifying criteria.

Pat Breen

Question:

253 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 268 of 30 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. [21703/10]

A valid application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in February 2010. All valid applications are dealt with in chronological order as this is deemed to be the fairest to all applicants. The average processing time from application to decision is now at 26 months. More complicated cases can at times take more than the current average, while an element of straight forward cases can be dealt with in less than that timescale. Additional resources have been allocated to the Citizenship Division of my Department in order to reduce backlogs and provide a better quality service to all applicants. This has had a positive impact on processing times and has enabled certain categories of applicant to be dealt with more expeditiously. These include refugees, spouses of Irish citizens and minors.

The length of time taken to process each application should not be classified as a delay, as the length of time taken for any application to be decided is purely a function of the time taken to carry out necessary checks. There is a limit to the reduction in the processing time that can be achieved as applications for naturalisation must be processed in a way which preserves the necessary checks and balances to ensure that it is not undervalued and is only given to persons who genuinely satisfy the necessary qualifying criteria.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

254 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for naturalisation in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21711/10]

Applications for certificates of naturalisation from the persons referred to in the Deputy's Question were received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in June 2009. The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended, provides that the Minister may, in his absolute discretion, grant an application for a certificate of naturalisation provided certain statutory conditions are fulfilled. The persons concerned did not fulfil all of the statutory conditions, consequently, the Citizenship Division of my Department have deemed both applications ineligible. The persons in question were informed of this decision in letters issued to them on 5 June, 2009. It is open to the persons concerned to lodge new applications for certificates of naturalisation if and when they are in a position to meet the statutory requirements.

Residency Permits

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

255 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on a stamp four application in respect of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 1. [21730/10]

I have been informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that the person in question has lodged an application to remain in the State. This application is currently under consideration and a decision will issue to the person concerned in the near future.

Garda Investigations

James Bannon

Question:

256 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a serious assault (details supplied) was not fully investigated by the gardaí, nor any action taken against the assailant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21735/10]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the incident referred to by the Deputy was the subject of a full Garda investigation and an investigation file was submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). I am further informed that the case was heard at Cavan District Court on 26 February, 2009, when the summonses against the accused were dismissed.

I have no role in the investigation, prosecution or trial of alleged offences. This is a long standing principle of our system of justice. The role of An Garda Síochána is to investigate alleged offences, to gather whatever evidence may be available and to submit a report to the DPP. The question of whether or not a particular person should be prosecuted and for what criminal offence is the responsibility of the DPP. The DPP, who is independent in the performance of his functions, makes his decision on the basis of the Garda findings viewed against the background of common and/or statute law. Similarly, the courts are, subject only to the Constitution and the law, independent in the exercise of their judicial functions and the conduct of any court case is a matter entirely for the presiding judge.

Departmental Agencies

John O'Mahony

Question:

257 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the agencies or bodies to which his Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which his Department is responsible in respect of his policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21756/10]

I can inform the Deputy that the main bodies within the remit of my Department include An Garda Síochána, the Courts Service, the Irish Prison Service and the Property Registration Authority in addition to those other bodies listed in the appendices to my Department's most recent Annual Report which is available at www.justice.ie and also in the Oireachtas Library. Full details of estimates associated with all the bodies concerned for the current year are contained in the Revised Estimates for Public Services 2010 while the costs associated with these bodies for earlier years are contained in the Revised Estimates for Public Services for each of the years concerned. Copies of the Revised Estimates for Public Services are available at www.finance.irlgov.ie and in the Oireachtas Library.

Criminal Prosecutions

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

258 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of prosecutions that have been initiated under provisions of the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21767/10]

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

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

259 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of unspent money returned by his Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21785/10]

Details of the Department's budget and various expenditure headings is published annually in the Revised Estimates Volume and subsequently in the Annual Output Statement and the Appropriation Account. All of the publications in question are available in the library of the Houses of the Oireachtas. In line with well established public service financial procedures, as set out by the Department of Finance, a small proportion of the budget is surrendered to the Exchequer each year. The amounts in percentage terms were 2.16% in 2007, 0.8% in 2008 and 1.8% in 2009.

Residency Permits

Billy Timmins

Question:

260 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied). [21889/10]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the person referred to in the question has been granted further permission to remain in the State.

Departmental Correspondence

Michael Ring

Question:

261 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a reply was not issued to correspondence (details supplied). [21914/10]

I wish to advise the Deputy that it has not been possible due to industrial action to process certain types of correspondence sent directly to my Office. While most of the industrial action that was being taken has now been suspended, some action by the Union involved is continuing across the Civil Service. The further details supplied by the Deputy, including the precise destination and method of communication used, enables my office to confirm that the correspondence he refers to falls into this category.

I regret the inconvenience that this action is causing to the public and Members of the Oireachtas and can assure the Deputy that my Department is determined to ensure that full service is restored as soon as possible. In the interim, the person referred to should resubmit the correspondence to the Visa section of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service, 13-14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2 to allow for any outstanding issues to be addressed.

Departmental Properties

Denis Naughten

Question:

262 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 195 of 21 January 2010, his plans for the facility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21943/10]

I can advise the Deputy that my Department is still in consultation with the Irish Prison Service to see what potential alternative use might be made of the facility. The outcome of those consultations will inform future decisions.

Irish Prison Service

Denis Naughten

Question:

263 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 121 of 26 February 2009, if he will provide the corresponding figure for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21945/10]

Denis Naughten

Question:

264 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 168 of 2 April 2009, if he will provide the corresponding figure for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21946/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 263 and 264 together.

The following table sets out the requested expenditure figures for the Irish Prison Service in 2009. The first column shows expenditure on sports, gym and recreational equipment (including expenditure on balls) and the second column separately shows expenditure on balls.

Prison

Expenditure on all Sports, Gym and Recreation Equipment (including expenditure on balls) in 2009

Expenditure on Balls in 2009

Dublin Prisons

137,516

31,271

Portlaoise

41,535

876

Midlands

7,453

1,548

Cork

13,903

8,224

Limerick

14,279

13,485

Loughan House

410

Nil

Shelton Abbey

186

Nil

Castlerea

2,762

1,249

All expenditure figures provided for 2009 above are subject to audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General. The figures for the Dublin prisons have been amalgamated as many of these items would have been procured centrally through the Regional Distribution Centre within the Irish Prison Service. In respect of expenditure on balls, the figures provided relate to the purchase of balls for use in a variety of sports including tennis, football, hand-ball, squash, table tennis and basketball.

As the Deputy will appreciate, there are significant benefits to be gained from participating in physical education, be it in a community setting or in the prison environment. In the prison setting, physical education affords prisoners the opportunity to take control of one aspect of their daily life, namely their physical well-being. This has the potential knock-on effect of increasing their motivation and confidence to tackle other identified issues such as substance abuse and to take up educational or workshop opportunities. It is also recognised that physical education, sport and recreation play a significant role in the management of prison life by providing positive outlets for energy.

The level of expenditure in the sports and recreation area, in any particular year, would be affected by the number of prisoners in custody and the requirement to adequately fit-out any new facilities provided during the year. In relation to 2009, the average daily number of prisoners increased by almost 10% on the previous year and there was a requirement to fit-out new accommodation blocks at Castlerea, Portlaoise and Wheatfield.

Road Traffic Offences

Brian Hayes

Question:

265 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Garda has the power, through existing legislation, to confiscate scramblers or motorised bikes which use public open spaces and cause considerable annoyance to local communities; his views on updating the existing legislation in order that these vehicles can be confiscated without warning; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22113/10]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that section 41 of the Road Traffic Act 1994 provides for a member of An Garda Síochána to detain, remove, store and subsequently release or dispose of a mechanically propelled vehicle in breach of road traffic legislation. I am further informed that An Garda Síochána is aware of ongoing difficulties with the types of vehicles referred to by the Deputy in certain areas and they take a proactive approach in dealing with the matter, including measures taken in consultation with local authorities. When persons are found using such vehicles in breach of legislation, appropriate action is taken. Any change to road traffic legislation is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Transport.

Passport Applications

Finian McGrath

Question:

266 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will support the case of a person (details supplied). [21528/10]

The Passport Service is facilitating the prioritisation of applications on the basis of demonstrable urgent humanitarian need. The Passport Service has been in contact with the person concerned and the mater is in hand. Further information has been sought from the applicant and I understand this will be forthcoming shortly.

Consular Services

James Reilly

Question:

267 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the support he is providing to a group of Irish citizens (details supplied) who invested in a French lease back scheme that has ended up costing them thousands of euro and who are now planning to take the matter to the French courts in view of the fact that they believe the management company has been fraudulent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21344/10]

While my Department is not aware of this particular case, a number of other cases which have occurred in the context of the French leaseback system have been brought to the attention of the Embassy in Paris. The Deputy will be aware that the role of the Department of Foreign Affairs concerning private property transactions by Irish nationals abroad is limited, and that redress in such cases must be sought through the French legal system. I have asked officials in my Department to make contact with the group to explore if there is any assistance which can be provided, for example, the Embassy could provide a list of English-speaking lawyers in the area, if that were considered useful.

Human Rights Issues

Finian McGrath

Question:

268 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will raise the issue of civilian deaths in Thailand with the United Nations. [21369/10]

As stated in the House in reply to a Parliamentary Question on 20 May, the Government is extremely concerned about the recent surge in violence in Thailand, including the Army assault on the protesters' encampment in central Bangkok early on the morning of 19 May and the violence which has occurred both in Bangkok and in the provinces following the military intervention. I am deeply concerned by reports that 15 people were killed and hundreds injured during the intervention, in addition to the thirty-six deaths which had already occurred since 13 May.

The protests in Bangkok have been led by the United Front of Democracy against Dictatorship, also known as the "red-shirts", and have been underway since 13 March. The "red-shirts" are supporters of the former Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted after a military coup in September 2006. They regard the current Government as illegitimate and have called for the dissolution of Parliament and for new elections. Following negotiations between the Government and protesters earlier this month, it appeared that a compromise between the parties had been reached, with Prime Minister Abhisit proposing a "reconciliation plan" and offering to hold elections in November.

However, the Prime Minister's offer was conditional on the protesters ending their occupation of the main shopping district in Bangkok. For their part, the protesters vowed to remain in the encampment until the Prime Minister set a specific date for dissolving Parliament. With neither party prepared to compromise, the Government intervened to close the encampment.

The EU recently expressed grave concern about the situation in Thailand, urging both sides in the conflict to negotiate and to solve the political crisis through peaceful and democratic means. The "red-shirts" had appealed for EU observers to be sent to Thailand but the Thai Government had insisted that it had the situation under control and did not need external assistance.

On the question of raising this matter at the UN, I understand that consideration will be given over the coming weeks to the idea of raising it at the Human Rights Council in Geneva. The UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon, has also been monitoring the situation carefully. In a statement issued on 14 May, the Secretary-General stated that he was following developments in Thailand with growing concern and that he was saddened by the reports of numerous civilian deaths, including journalists, as a result of clashes between protesters and security forces. He appealed both to the protesters and the Thai authorities to do all within their power to avoid further violence and loss of life. He has encouraged them to return urgently to dialogue in order to de-escalate the situation and resolve matters peacefully.

I share the views of the Secretary-General. Replying to a Parliamentary Question on 30 March, I welcomed talks which had taken place between the Prime Minister and the "red-shirt" protesters and I expressed the hope that these talks would lay the foundation for broader dialogue on the range of issues which divide Thailand. I remain of the view that, if political stability is to be achieved and if Thailand is to successfully address the many challenges it faces, the parties there must engage in dialogue and work with each other in a spirit of peaceful, national reconciliation. The Government believes that the crisis can only be resolved through peaceful and democratic means. Together with our EU partners, we will do all in our power to promote this outcome.

Foreign Conflicts

Finian McGrath

Question:

269 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding the peace talks in Colombia and the potential for inclusive dialogue with two groups (details supplied). [21370/10]

I understand that there are no peace talks underway between the Government and the FARC and the ELN in Colombia. It is the stated position of the Colombian Government that it will not negotiate with the FARC or the ELN until they lay down arms, inter alia, in accordance with the Justice and Peace Law, 2005, of which the AUC and a number of individual FARC and ELN members have availed. Presidential elections will take place on 30 May in Colombia. I cannot anticipate any change in policy that might occur following these elections.

Passport Applications

Finian McGrath

Question:

270 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [21574/10]

The person in question lodged his application at the counter in the Molesworth Street Office on 10 May, 2010. As a direct result of the ongoing industrial action by the Civil Public and Services Union (CPSU) it is currently taking up to twenty five working days to process individual applications submitted through the Passport Express Service, the Northern Ireland Passport Express Service and at the counters in the Passport Office. Applications submitted through ordinary post are taking up to eight weeks to process. Applications, other than those that are prioritised on the basis of demonstrable urgent humanitarian need, are being processed on a first come first served basis. No guarantee can be provide that the application in question will be issued in time to allow for travel on 1 June 2010. The applicant should continue to monitor the progress of the application on the Departments' web site at http: //www.dfa.ie/home/index.aspx?id=2859

Departmental Investigations

Darragh O'Brien

Question:

271 Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding his investigation into the illegal use of Irish passports by foreign agents; the outcome of his discussions with the Israeli authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21723/10]

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Priority Questions Nos. 1 and 2 on 20 May 2010. Over the past three months there has been frequent contact between Irish officials and the UAE authorities, representatives from other countries whose passports were also used in this incident and representatives of the Israeli Government. On 22 February, I met with Israeli Foreign Minister, Avigdor Lieberman, in Brussels to outline how seriously we take the misuse of Irish passports. The Irish Ambassador in Tel Aviv also met with the Europe Director of the Israeli Foreign Ministry and registered our serious concerns. The Israeli Ambassador was invited to Iveagh House where senior officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs stressed the seriousness with which the Government viewed the matter. In our discussions with the Israeli authorities, we have requested them to give us any information they may have on the use of forged Irish passports. To date, we have not received a reply.

Departmental Agencies

John O'Mahony

Question:

272 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the agencies or bodies to which his Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which his Department is responsible in respect of his policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21754/10]

There are no state agencies operating under the remit of my Department. There are currently three bodies, which operate under the aegis of my Department: the Development Education Advisory Committee (DEAC); the Government Emigrant Services Advisory Committee (previously known as Díon); and the Fulbright Commission (The Board of the Ireland — United States Commission for Educational Exchange). A further two bodies — the Advisory Board for Irish Aid (ABIA) and the Hunger Task Force — also operated during the period in question.

The Fulbright Commission, ABIA and the Hunger Task Force received funding from my Department during the period in question, as indicated in the following table. The remaining bodies are advisory committees, the administrations of which are all serviced directly by my Department's budget.

Funding provided €

2007

2008

2009

2010

Fulbright Commission

254,000

254,000

254,000

254,000

Advisory Board for Irish Aid (ABIA)

1,152,868

738,047

N/A

N/A

The Hunger Task Force (grant)

25,987

257,669

18,334

N/A

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

273 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount of unspent money returned by his Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21783/10]

The Department of Foreign Affairs is responsible for two Votes — Vote 28 (Foreign Affairs) and Vote 29 (International Cooperation). The following table sets out the Department's net budgetary allocations and surrendered surpluses for the years 2007 to 2009 for Vote 28 and Vote 29:

Vote 28 — Dept of Foreign Affairs

2007

2008

2009

€000

€000

€000

Net Budgetary Allocation

214,945

233,437

206,762

Net Outturn

205,047

217,495

191,692

Surplus Surrendered

9,898

15,942

15,070

Vote 29 — International Cooperation

2007

2008

2009

€000

€000

€000

Net Budgetary Allocation

729,807

814,050

570,203

Net Outturn

726,672

767,578

565,700

Surplus Surrendered

2,835

46,472

4,503

Note: 2009 figures are provisional and subject to audit.

The amounts surrendered in each year arise from net savings arising under various administrative and programme subheads and not specifically from projects for which funds had previously been earmarked. The following table summarises the areas where the most significant savings or underspends occurred, together with a brief explanation in each case. (It should be noted that in some cases savings under a particular sub-head may have been applied in whole or in part to offset overspends in other areas with the result that the figures for savings/underspends in the table below do not match the net amount surrendered in a particular year.)

Vote 28 — Department of Foreign Affairs

Year

Subheads where Principal Savings/Underspends occurred.

Explanation

2007

A6 Premises Expenses (€14.8 m)

Local conditions did not permit a number of planned purchases of premises abroad.

K Assistance to EU Candidate Countries (€868,000)

Funds allocated for the Chernobyl reconstruction programme were not called upon.

N Support for the Ireland Funds (€2.0m)

Issues regarding the nature of the possible legislation required were still under consideration and, accordingly, the allocated funds were not spent.

2008

A1 Salaries and Allowances (€5.6m)

Savings in overtime, allowances to officers working at Missions abroad and reduced payroll costs for local staff at Missions abroad; savings in allowances including officers’ rents overseas due to the strength of the Euro.

A2 Travel and Subsistence (€1.1 m)

Savings on air fares and general travel costs.

A5 Office Expenses (€3.8m)

Savings on capital purchases, consumables, equipment maintenance.

A6 Premises Expenses (€1.3m)

Savings on capital purchases.

I Contributions to International Organisations (€6.3m)

Savings were due to lower than expected demand for contributions to the United Nations peacekeeping budget.

N Support for Ireland Funds (€2.0m)

Issues regarding the nature of the possible legislation required were still under consideration and, accordingly, the allocated funds were not spent.

2009

A1 Salaries and Allowances (€5.0m)

Savings in allowances to officers working at Missions abroad, including savings in officers’ rents overseas due to the strength of the Euro, and reduced payroll costs of local staff at Missions.

A2 Travel and Subsistence (€1.9m)

Savings on air fares and general travel costs.

A4 Postal and telecommunications (€1.0m)

Savings on postage and freight costs.

A5 Office Expenses (€4.2m)

Savings on capital purchases, consumables, equipment maintenance.

I Contributions to International Organisations (€4.9m)

Savings arose due to a lower than expected demand for contributions to the United Nations peacekeeping budget.

K Assistance to EU candidate countries (€221,000)

Lower level of grants to training institutes relating to new EU member-states.

N EU Reform Treaty (€214,000)

Lower level of grants to training institutes relating to new EU member-states.Lower than anticipated expenditure on the referendum on the EU Reform Treaty.

Vote 29 — International Cooperation

Year

Subheads where Principal Savings/Underspends occurred.

Explanation

2007

A1 Salaries and Allowances (€0.72m)

Savings occurred due to a deferment in recruitment of sanctioned posts.

A2 Travel and Subsistence (€0.33m)

Savings were generated through lower than expected travel to Irish Aid Programme Countries.

A3 Incidental Expenses (€1.15m)

Savings were delivered by lower than anticipated incidental expenditure incurred at Programme Country level.

A4 Postal and telecommunication (€0.42m)

Savings were delivered through better use of satellite and internet based telecommunication between head quarters and Programme countries.

2008

A4 Postal and telecommunication (€0.42m)

Savings were generated through an upgrade of the bandwidth on the communication links between Head Quarters and Programme Countries.

A6 Office Premises Expenses (€0.25m)

Savings were achieved on the rental costs for Chanceries and Official Residences.

B — Payments to Grant in Aid For Bilateral Cooperation (€29.950 m)

Savings arose on this subhead as a result of the Government decision in July 2008 to reduce the expenditure allocation to Vote 29 by €45 million.

C — Emergency Humanitarian Assistance (€3.0 m)

Explanation for saving under Subhead C is as for subhead B.

D — Payments to International Funds for the Benefit of Developing Countries (€5.0 m)

Explanation for saving under Subhead D is as for Subhead B.

E — Contributions to United Nations and Other Development Agencies (€7.051 m)

Explanation for saving under Subhead E is as for Subhead B.

2009

A2 Travel and Subsistence (€1.26m)

Savings were delivered through lower than anticipated air fare costs and a reduction in general travel costs.

A3 Incidental Expenses (€1.07m)

Savings were identified across incidental expenditure at Programme Country level.

A4 Postal and telecommunication (€0.28m)

Continued improvements in the telecommunication infrastructure between the Irish Aid Programme Country missions and Headquarters have resulted in savings being delivered under this subhead.

A6 Office Premises Expenses (€0.42 m)

Savings were achieved on rental costs on Irish Aid Embassies and Residences.

A7 Consultancy Expenses (€0.5 m)

Savings were achieved through a less than anticipated demand for technical consultancy services in 2009.

A8 Value for Money and Policy Reviews (€0.55 m)

Savings arose due to a lower than anticipated requirement for consultancy services under this subhead.

Passport Applications

Joe McHugh

Question:

274 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of unprocessed applications for passports that are lodged in the Passport Office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21875/10]

At 21 May, 2010 there were 62,944 applications in the system. My Department has obtained the necessary sanction to recruit 50 temporary staff and arrangements have been made for staff to commence work at short notice. If necessary, we are prepared to recruit additional staff.

These arrears are a direct result of the ongoing industrial action by the Civil Public and Services Union (CPSU). It is presently taking up to twenty five working days to process individual applications submitted through the Passport Express Service, the Northern Ireland Passport Express Service and at the counters in the Passport Office. Applications submitted through ordinary post are taking up to eight weeks to process. Applications, other than those that are prioritised on the basis of demonstrable urgent humanitarian need, are being processed on a first come first served basis.

The dispute is having a severe impact on the travelling public. There are very many Irish citizens whose trips abroad have had to be cancelled and holiday and work plans severely disrupted. Every effort is being made to reduce the waiting time for applications, pending the resolution of the industrial action. Staff have been working overtime for some weeks and this has kept the level of increase in the backlog to a minimum and in recent days seen a marginal reduction in the backlog.

However, the backlog in passport applications can and will be overcome when the CPSU call off their industrial action and co-operate with the recruitment of temporary staff normally engaged at this time of year. I would once again call on the CPSU to withdraw this restriction and to allow a significant number of currently unemployed workers to take on paid employment and assist in reducing the sizeable backlog of passport applications.

Emigrant Support Services

Billy Timmins

Question:

275 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the bilateral or other arrangements that have been discussed between his Department and its counterpart in the United States in respect of the undocumented Irish in the United States in the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21959/10]

The difficult situation of the undocumented Irish in the US and the impact on their families in America and Ireland is a matter of deep concern to the Government. I would urge anybody who might be tempted in the current economic climate to follow in the footsteps of the undocumented to take account of the plight in which they now find themselves. Finding a solution for our undocumented citizens in the United States continues to be a Government priority. We are also committed to enhancing our bilateral migration arrangements with the US through the establishment of a reciprocal two year renewable visa scheme, known as the E3 visa, and the further development of the recently agreed working holiday programme.

Over the last 12 months my Department, and the Embassy in Washington in particular, has worked proactively with the US Administration and Congressional leaders to achieve positive progress on this important issue. The status of the undocumented can only be changed by virtue of legislation passed by both Houses of Congress in the US — it is not merely a matter of bilateral engagement between the two Governments.

During my visit to Washington and New York in October 2009, I held extensive discussions on the prospect for progress on immigration reform with a significant number of key Democrats and Republicans in Congress. These included the Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Senator Patrick Leahy, Senator John McCain, Senator Lindsey Graham, Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Senator Chris Dodd, Senator Bob Casey, the Chair of the House Sub Committee on Immigration, Zoe Lofgren and the members of the House of Representatives Friends of Ireland Group. I also discuss the matter on a regular basis with Ambassador Rooney. It has been made clear to us that the undocumented can only be provided for through comprehensive immigration reform.

During our St Patrick's Day visit Washington this year, the Taoiseach and I took the opportunity to discuss immigration reform and the undocumented Irish in our meetings with President Obama, Secretary of State Clinton and leading members of Congress. As part of his St Patrick's Day address, President Obama offered an assurance that his own commitment to comprehensive immigration reform remains unwavering. President Obama has since reiterated this commitment to immigration reform, and has welcomed what he has described as the "strong proposal" for reform presented at the end of April by senior Democratic Senators Harry Reid, Charles Schumer, and Robert Menendez . This proposal includes provision for a path towards legalisation for the undocumented, including the Irish, provided they first admit to having violated US laws, undertake the repayment of taxes and perform community service. This outline legislation also specifically mentions an E-3 visa arrangement for Irish citizens. Although the proposal is only the first step in a long process, the inclusion of an Irish E3 scheme at this initial stage is an important achievement for the Government and the Irish community.

While I am encouraged by these developments and also by the efforts which continue to be made on Capitol Hill to resolve this issue, very considerable political challenges remain, particularly in an election year. The Government will continue to maintain very close contact with the US Administration and Congress, as well as with Irish community advocates, to address this issue in the period ahead. Through the Emigrant Support Programme, we have provided $285,000 to the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform, since 2006, to assist with their lobbying efforts. In 2009, we also provided $10,000 to the Chicago Celts for Immigration Reform.

Human Rights Issues

Finian McGrath

Question:

276 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will support a matter (details supplied). [22091/10]

Ireland and its EU partners have repeatedly expressed their concerns about democratic freedoms and human rights in Iran, and look forward to the day when these are fully established and protected. While the general principles set out in the document provided are entirely laudable, the National Council of Resistance of Iran is generally regarded as the political wing of the People's Mujahideen of Iran, an emigré group with little support in Iran and a very questionable history. The Government does not regard the PMOI/NCRI as representative of any substantial body of opinion in Iran, and has no dealings with it.

National Museum of Ireland

Michael Ring

Question:

277 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if she will confirm the allocation of funding for 2009 and for 2010 in respect of a facility (details supplied) in County Mayo. [21348/10]

As the Deputy will be aware the National Museum of Ireland operates across four sites, one of which is the National Museum of Ireland — Country Life, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo. My Department provides funding to the National Museum of Ireland as a single entity and not on a site by site basis. The funding provided by my Department to the National Museum in 2009 and 2010 is as set out below:

2009 Allocation

2010 Allocation

Current Funding

13,891,000

13,125,000

Capital Funding

1,524,000

2,000,000

Total

15,415,000

15,125,000

The National Museum of Ireland became an autonomous non-commercial semi-state body under the terms of the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997 with effect from May 2005. The Board of the Museum is responsible for all operational matters relating to the institution, and I, as Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, do not have a statutory function in respect of operational matters. It is, therefore, a matter for the Board of the Museum to allocate resources as it deems appropriate.

Sports Capital Programme

Brian O'Shea

Question:

278 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport when she intends to resume sports capital grants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21527/10]

Under the Sports Capital Programme, which is administered by my Department, and part funded from the proceeds of the National Lottery, funding is allocated to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. While no decision has been made on the timing of the next round of the Programme, €48 million has been provided in my Department's Vote in the 2010 Estimates to cover payments to be made from the C1 subhead, out of which grants are paid for the provision of sports and recreation facilities in respect of previously awarded grants.

Departmental Agencies

John O'Mahony

Question:

279 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the agencies or bodies to which her Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which her Department is responsible in respect of her policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21760/10]

The Department currently has thirteen bodies and agencies operating under its remit, as follows:

The Arts Council;

The Crawford Art Gallery Cork;

The Chester Beatty Library;

Fáilte Ireland (National Tourism Development Authority);

The Irish Film Board;

The Irish Museum of Modern Art;

The Irish Sports Council;

The National Concert Hall;

The National Gallery of Ireland;

The National Library of Ireland;

The National Museum of Ireland;

The National Sports Campus Development Authority; and

Tourism Ireland (Cross-Border body).

All of the above are statutory bodies with the exception of the Crawford Gallery, the National Concert Hall, the Irish Museum of Modern Art and Tourism Ireland which are companies limited by guarantee and the Chester Beatty Library which is a Trust. All of the bodies are involved in the implementation of policy and in contributing to its formulation. Details of the financial allocations to these bodies are set out in the Annual Estimates for Public Services and in the annual reports and financial statements of each body and agency, which are available in the Dáil Library or on the relevant corporate websites.

Departmental Programmes

John O'Mahony

Question:

280 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport her proposals to support community based art and sport related proposals throughout the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21772/10]

The schemes operated by my Department which support community based art and sport related proposals throughout the country are the ACCESS Programme, the Sports Capital Programme and the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme. Under the ACCESS programme, my Department is responsible for the provision of capital monies for arts centres, galleries, theatres, etc. In 2008 and 2009 €52m was expended in respect of such facilities. A further €16m is allocated in 2010 for regional arts capital projects throughout the country. Many of these projects are already under construction and will be completed in 2010. A list of the successful ACCESS II projects and the amount of grant aid allocated to each project is available on my Department's website. No date has been set for the next round of allocations under the ACCESS programme.

Under the Sports Capital Programme, which is administered by my Department, and part funded from the proceeds of the National Lottery, funding is allocated to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. Given the current budgetary situation and the high level of outstanding commitments it was considered prudent to pause prior to announcing the next round of the Programme and no date has been set for the next round of the Programme. Under the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme grant aid to a maximum of €3.8m is provided to Local Authorities towards the capital cost of new swimming pools or the refurbishment of existing pools. No decision has been taken on the timing of a new round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme.

A number of agencies under the aegis of my Department also provide funding for community based projects in the arts and sport areas. Details of the financial allocations to these bodies are set out in the Annual Estimates for Public Services and in the annual reports and financial statements of each body and agency, which are available in the Dáil Library or on the relevant corporate websites.

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

281 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the amount of unspent money returned by her Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21788/10]

The surplus amounts surrendered by my Department to the Department of Finance and the departmental budgets for each year 2007 to 2009 are outlined in the following table. A detailed breakdown of the figures for 2007 and 2008 is published in the Comptroller and Auditor General's Audit of Appropriation Accounts for each year. The Appropriation Accounts also contain an explanation of the variances between the outturn figure and the estimate provision under various expenditure subheads.

In relation to the projects for which the surrendered funds were originally earmarked, the capital grant schemes in my Department are demand-led and depend on projects progressing to a satisfactory level to allow payment of funding. Accordingly, the funds allocated are not specifically earmarked for payment to a specific project in a given year and depend on the progress of the project. In relation to other capital projects, the Deputy will be aware that, in accordance with Section 91 of the Finance Act 2004, capital monies unspent in a particular year can be carried forward to be spent in the following year, subject to Department of Finance approval and certain limits. This deferred expenditure was applied to some unspent capital monies in 2007 and 2008, as approved by the Department of Finance.

The amounts of deferred expenditure are shown in the following table and are also outlined in detail in the Appropriation Accounts and the Revised Estimates Volume for my Department's Vote for each year. The remaining unspent amounts surrendered to the Department of Finance in 2007 and 2008 relate to current expenditure savings. Other than a small amount of capital expenditure in the administrative budget, all of the savings in 2009 relate to current expenditure, including administrative budget savings, pay savings and other efficiency savings.

Year

Net Estimate Provision1

Surplus surrendered

€m

€m

2007

670.118

Surplus

26.819

Less deferred surrender

25.181

Surplus surrendered

1.638

2008

725.343

Surplus

8.103

Less deferred surrender

1.500

Surplus surrendered

6.603

2009

525.576

Estimated Surplus2

3.5

Less deferred surrender

0

Estimated Surplus to be surrendered2

3.5

1Includes deferred surrender of capital expenditure from previous year.

2Estimated pending completion of C&AG annual Audit of Appropriation Accounts.

Sports Capital Programme

Michael McGrath

Question:

282 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the position regarding the draw down of certain sports capital grants to an organisation (details supplied) in County Cork. [21907/10]

Under the Sports Capital Programme, which is administered by my Department funding is allocated to sporting and community organisations for the capital costs of providing sports facilities and the purchase of non-personal sports equipment at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The organisation in question was awarded grants under the 2006 and 2007 Sports Capital Programme of €175,000 and €70,000 respectively. The organisation also received a RAPID top-up in 2006 of €52,500. The grant allocation was subject to the terms and conditions of the Programme, which includes the execution of a deed of covenant and charge. A deed of covenant and charge provides, inter alia, for a refund of the grant in the event of the facility not continuing to be used for the purpose for which the grant was allocated.

The Department's legal adviser, the Chief State Solicitor's Office — CSSO — deals with the grantee's solicitor in ensuring that these issues are satisfactorily resolved before grants can be paid. The current position is that the Chief State Solicitor's Office is awaiting paper work from the grantees solicitor. When this is received and if all matters are in order, the grant can then be paid.

Ferry Services

Michael Ring

Question:

283 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if the vessel MV Stenland has been sold; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this vessel was Lasta Mara Teo’s back-up vessel for the island subsidy; the vessel that is now acting as back-up vessel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21543/10]

Lasta Mara Teo has a contract with my Department to provide a cargo service to the Aran Islands for the 5-year period from 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2012, using the vessels ‘Bláth na Mara' and ‘Madelen' as main vessels. Under the terms of the contract, the company is also required to maintain access to a back-up vessel registered under the name ‘Stenland' or an equivalent type vessel, to be of a standard approved by the Minister for use when either of the main vessels may be unavailable to provide the service.

My Department has agreed to Lasta Mara's request to nominate the ‘Madelen' as back-up vessel as the company wished to avail of an opportunity to sell the ‘Stenland.' In agreeing to this alteration to the terms of the contract, regard was had to the satisfactory service being provided by the company, the very few occasions on which the ‘Stenland' was actually required as the back-up vessel and an assurance from the company that another vessel that it has acquired will also be available for the service, if the need arises.

Departmental Agencies

John O'Mahony

Question:

284 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the agencies or bodies to which his Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which his Department is responsible in respect of his policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21748/10]

Funding provided to the statutory agencies under the remit of my Department is shown in the Revised Estimates each year and in the Appropriation Accounts, each of which are available in the Dáil library and on the internet at www.finance.gov.ie and www.audgen.gov.ie respectively. In the following table, the funding provided to the agencies in 2007 and 2008 is taken from the outturns shown in the Appropriation Accounts. The Appropriation Accounts for 2009 are not yet published. Accordingly, the figures used for 2009 are the provisional outturns shown in the Revised Estimates. In the case of 2010 the figures used are the allocations shown in the Revised Estimates.

In the context of the recent transfer of functions, the Family Support Agency has transferred to my Department from the former Department of Social and Family Affairs. The position regarding this agency's funding, using the same sources as above, is also included in the following table.

Agency/Body

2007

2008

2009

2010

€’000

€’000

€’000

€’000

Údarás na Gaeltachta

39,369

44,054

37,635

29,915

Western Development Commission

6,495

6,511

4,458

2,230

Waterways Ireland

36,218

38,140

34,504

33,585

An Foras Teanga

16,167

18,670

16,420

16,634

An Coimisinéir Teanga

694

831

864

796

Family Support Agency

35,339

35,981

34,660

33,509

National Drugs Strategy

John O'Mahony

Question:

285 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the sums of money which have been allocated to the ten regional drugs task forces; if these moneys have been drawn down by these task forces; the projects currently being implemented by same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21774/10]

The allocations from my Department to the Regional Drugs Task Forces for 2010 are as set out in Table 1 below.

Table 1: 2010 allocations to Regional Drugs Task Forces

Regional Drugs Task Force

2010 Allocation

East Coast Area

817,985

Midland

894,739

Mid-West

1,576,095

North East

1,038,588

North West

806,369

North Dublin City & County

870,066

South East

1,193,006

South West

894,750

Southern

1,089,369

Western

740,085

Total

9,921,052

The projects currently being allocated funding are set out in Table 2 below. Drawdown of funding is done on a six monthly basis. It is a matter for Task Forces themselves to decide on the allocation and re-allocation of available funding between projects. At present, preparations are being made for the draw down of the second six monthly allocation of funding for the period July to December 2010.

Table 2: Regional Drug Task Force Projects

Ref No.

Projects

East Coast RDTF Projects

EC-1

The Bara Project

EC-2

Wicklow Child & Family Project

EC-3

Wicklow Traveller Group

EC-4

Task Force Budget

EC-6

ISPCC

EC-7

Living Life

EC-8

Treo Nua

Midlands RDTF Projects

M1

Operational Budget

M5

Community Drug Action Group

M9

Education Co-ordinator

M10

MRYS Youth Health Officer

M11

Open Door Mullingar

M12

Midlands Family Support & Community Harm Reduction

M13

Open Door Athlone

M15

MQI Rehab & Aftercare worker

M17

Holistic/Complimentary Therapies

M19

Strengthening Families Programme

M20

Attic Youth Café Drug Education Initiative

M21

Community GP/Pharmacy Liaison Nurse

M22

Traveller Drugs Worker

Mid West RDTF Projects

MW-1

Aljeff Prison Support Programme

MW-22

Operational Budget

MW-22

Operational Budget-Small Grants

MW-28

Aljeff Day Treatment Programme

MW-30

In The Know

MW-31

Newcastle West CBDI

MW-32

LYS CBDI

MW-33

CYS Youth Drug Prevention Project

MW-34

Sth East Limerick Youth Drug Prevention Project

MW-35

Strengthening Families Programme

MW-37

CASC North Tipperary

MW-38

Support to Respite House

MW-1L

Limerick City In The Know

MW-2L

Limerick City Outreach -Aljeff

MW-3L

Limerick City Family Programme -Aljeff

MW-4L

Limerick City Transitional House-Aljeff

MW-5L

Limerick City Northstar

MW-6L

Limerick City CBDI-LYS

MW-7L

Limerick City Budget

MW-38 CI

Cocaine Initiative — Bushy Park Aftercare Supports

MW-39 CI

Cocaine Initiative — CBCS Training

North East RDTF Projects

NE-1

North East Family Support Network

NE-2

Operational Budget

NE-4

South Meath Response

NE-6+16

Turas Aftercare Programme

NE-7

Cavan Drug Awareness

NE-13

ISPCC Louth

NE-14

ISPCC Meath

NE-15

Louth / Meath Community Drug & Alcohol Team

NE-16

Turas Counselling Service

NE-18

Traveller Specific Drugs Outreach Worker

NE-19

Tabor House

NE-22 C/I

Cocaine Initiative

North West RDTF Projects

NW-3

Task Force Budget

NW-4

White Oaks Rehabilitation Centre

NW-5

Youth Drug & Alcohol Services Leitrim

NW-10

Diploma Co-ordinator

NW-12

Youth Drug & Alcohol Service, Sligo

NW-13

Youth Drug & Alcohol Service, Donegal

NW-14

Holistic Therapy Service, Sligo

NW-15

Holistic Therapy Service, Leitrim

NW-16

Diploma Bursary

NW-17

Certificate in Drug & Alcohol Studies

NW-18

Holistic Therapy Service, Donegal

NW-19

Assertive Outreach Worker Sligo

NW-20

Young Men’s Programme

NW-21

Homework Club

NW-23

Substance Misuse Worker for the Homeless

NW-24

Parentstop — Tackling Drugs & Alcohol

NW-25

Assertive Outreach Worker Letterkenny

NW-26

68A Low Threshold Service Sligo

NW-27

NWAF Family Support Programme

Northern RDTF Projects

N-1

Greater Blanchardstown Response to Drugs

N-2

Swords Baldoyle Youth Service

N-3

Balbriggan Youth Service

N-6

Operational Budget

N-9

RDTF Information Campaign

N-10

PMVT Lantern

N-11

Education Bursary

N-12

Fingal Travellers Organisation

N-22

North Fingal School Completion Programme

N-23

Swords & Balbriggan Community Policing Forum

South East RDTF Projects

SE-1

Croi Nua Aislinn Centre

SE-2

St Francis Farm

SE-3

Ceim Eile Half Way House

SE-4

Healthy Choices/Healthy Decisions

SE-5

The Cornmarket Project

SE-10

Co Waterford CBDI

SE-11

Inner City Ferrybank CBDI

SE-12

Extension to Co Waterford Frontline Project

SE-15

CRYS CBDI Worker

SE-19

Task Force Operational Budget

SE-23

Outreach Worker — South Tipperary

SE-24

Outreach Worker — Carlow/Kilkenny

SE-26

Outreach Worker — Waterford

SE-27

Aiseiri Addiction Treatment Centre

SE-28

Family Support Development Worker

SE-32

Outreach Worker — Wexford

South West RDTF Projects

SW-1

Drug Prevention Education Initiative (DPEI)

SW-2 & SW-3

Counselling Pool

SW-4

Operational Budget

SW-6

Innovation Fund

SW-8 & SW-11

ÁRAS

SW-9

HALO

Southern RDTF Projects

S-1

Operational Budget and Small Grants

S-3

Club Kerry

S-4

Club Cork

S-5

Link Worker Cork

S-6

Link Worker Kerry

S-7

Bandon Community Drugs Initiative

S-8

Tralee Community Drugs Initiative

S-9

Kerry Diocesan Youth Services Killarney

S-14

Cobh Community Drugs Initiative

S-15

Cloyne Diocesan Youth Services Mallow

S-16

Kerry Diocesan Youth Services Listowel

S-17

Tabor Lodge Aftercare

S-18

Matt Talbot Aftercare

S-19

Anchor Aftercare

S-20

Fellowship House Aftercare

S-21

Strengthening Families Programme

S-22

Cuan Mhuire Aftercare

S-23

Fermoy Community Drugs Initiative

S-24

Youghal Community Drugs Initiative

S-27

Renewal Aftercare

S-29

Mitchelstown Community Drugs Initiative

S-30

Talbot Grove Aftercare

S-31

Macroom Community Drugs Initiative

S-32 C/I

Anchor Treatment Centre

Western RDTF Projects

W-1 & W-3

Operational Budget

W-4

Aids West Education Support Worker

W-5

Family Support

W-6

Primary Prevention Initiative for YP/Jigsaw

W-7

Education Support Worker

W-8

Homeless Substance Misuse Worker

W-9

Counsellor for NUI Galway

W-10

Pharmacy Liaison Worker

W-13

Community Liaison Worker Co Galway

W-14

Community Liaison Worker Galway City

W-15

Community Liaison Worker Mayo

W-16

Service Users Group

W-17

Grants — SFP/Youth Initiative

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

286 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount of unspent money returned by his Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21777/10]

My Department's annual estimates and provisional outturns are published in the Revised Estimates Volumes, which are available at www.finance.gov.ie. The final outturns are published in the Appropriation Accounts, which are available at www.audgen.gov.ie. Both publications are also available in the Dáil library.

In the table below, the relevant details, including the total estimate and the surplus to be surrendered, are taken from the Appropriation Accounts for 2007 and 2008 — the latest years in respect of which published Appropriation Accounts are available. The estimates for 2009 and 2010 are taken from the Revised Estimates Volume. The audit of the Appropriation Account for 2009 has not yet been completed and, accordingly, the expenditure shown is the provisional outturn; the final figure for the surplus to be surrendered to the Exchequer is not yet available. As the Deputy is aware, the estimates and expenditure are made up of various subheads. The overall surplus to be surrendered comprises the sum of the variations across subheads and therefore does not relate back to specific projects. However, all major variations in subheads, as between estimates and outturn, are explained in the Appropriation Accounts.

Estimates, Outturn and Surplus to be Surrendered 2007-2010 (€000)

2007

2008

2009

2010

Estimate

475,001

508,595

443,873

384,980

Outturn

448,971

490,480

**440,636

N/A

Surplus to be surrendered

26,031

18,115

***3,237

N/A

*The figures in this table are rounded to the nearest €1,000 — there are rounding differences in some cases.

**Provisional outturn.

***The final figure for the surplus to be surrendered to the Exchequer will be available when the 2009 Appropriation Account is published. The figure shown is a calculation based on the estimate for the year less the provisional outturn published in the 2010 Revised Estimates Volume.

Community Development

Tom Sheahan

Question:

287 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if the commercial units at Cerdlann Na Coilte, Dingle, County Kerry are ready to be occupied following their vacation by tenants for refurbishment some time ago; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21931/10]

Responsibility in regard to the commercial units referred to by the Deputy is a matter for Údarás na Gaeltachta. I understand from An tÚdarás that the units have not been fully vacated, nor have they been refurbished.

Departmental Programmes

Michael Ring

Question:

288 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when CLÁR funding will be provided to a projects (details supplied) in County Mayo. [21999/10]

Funding under the CLÁR Programme for the projects referred to by the Deputy was approved in August 2008. In line with the normal arrangements that apply, it is a matter for the applicant to subsequently draw down the funding based on progress in completing the works. To date, all funding claimed and vouched by the applicant in question has been paid. This represents the majority of the funding that was originally approved. The balance of the funding will be provided when claimed validly by the applicant, in line with the conditions of the original approval.

Michael Ring

Question:

289 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the CLÁR funding that has been approved to projects in 2010 to date; the project details, location and amount of funding, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22000/10]

CLÁR funding approved by my Department in 2010 to date has been under two measures — the School Outdoor Play Facilities Enhancement Scheme and the Bilingual Signage Enhancement Scheme — and the relevant details requested by the Deputy are set out in the table below. Applications are not being accepted under other CLÁR measures at present, having regard to the high level of existing commitments and the level of resources available.

1. CLÁR Bilingual Signage Enhancement Scheme

Glór Chluainín, Co Leitrim

2,000.00

Melvin Gaels GAA Club, Co Leitrim

207.50

Drumsna Development Association Ltd, Co Leitrim

1,191.75

Belturbet Tidy Towns, Co Cavan

1,826.14

Coiste na mBhailte Slachtmhara, Co Cork

2,000.00

Midfield Development Association, Co Mayo

2,000.00

2. CLÁR Primary School Outdoor Play Facilities Enhancement Scheme

Gaelscoil Chluainín, Co Leitrim

7,500.00

Meelin N.S., Co Cork

4,699.09

S.N. Móin Ruadh, Co Kilkenny

7,438.35

Scoil Mhuire N.S., Co Galway

7,500.00

Total Number of Projects Approved

10

Total CLÁR funding Approved

36,362.83

Social Welfare Benefits

John O'Donoghue

Question:

290 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kerry has not received supplementary welfare allowance. [21899/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

John O'Donoghue

Question:

291 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive the result of their application for supplementary welfare allowance. [21902/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Code

Olwyn Enright

Question:

292 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social Protection the action he is taking to alleviate the impact of the carbon tax on lower income households; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21939/10]

The Department of Social Protection already assists low income households with heating costs through their basic payments, through the fuel allowance scheme and through the household benefits package of electricity and gas allowances. These schemes have been improved significantly in recent years. The fuel allowance is paid for 32 weeks each year from end September to end April. In the 2009/2010 heating season over 340,000 recipients benefited from the allowance at a cost of over €231million.

Some 376,000 pensioners are receiving the household benefits which provides 2,400 electricity units per annum (or the gas equivalent) over the year and it is estimated that some 140,000 of these households are receiving both fuel allowance and the electricity units /gas allowance under the household benefits to assist with the heating and other energy requirements. The household benefit package cost €184 million in 2009.

Proper household insulation is absolutely vital in tacking fuel poverty. Initiatives such as the Warmer Homes Scheme, operated by Sustainable Energy Ireland, under the aegis of the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources have a very valuable role to play in that regard, as does funding from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to improve the quality of existing local authority housing and the Housing Adaptation Grants for older people and people with disabilities. Considerable progress has been made in this area in recent years. In his Carbon Budget Statement, the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government, outlined details of €130 million in funding for insulation, €76 million of which will be used to assist low income families.

The Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources has overarching responsibility for the energy portfolio and has convened an Inter-Departmental/Agency Group on Affordable Energy to coordinate and drive Government policy in this area. The Inter Departmental/Agency Group has been asked to draw up an Energy Affordability Strategy. This strategy will set out existing and future approaches to addressing energy affordability and will have regard both to the impact of the carbon tax on low income households and the range of supports outlined above in making its recommendations. As part of its work, the Group will make recommendations as to the precise package of measures, including in the area of income support, that should be put in place to assist those at risk of fuel poverty.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

293 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection when and the way he proposes to amend the qualifying rules and benefits under mortgage interest supplement. [22003/10]

There are currently just over 16,500 people in receipt of mortgage interest supplement, compared to 8,091 recipients in 2008. Expenditure for the year ending December 2009 was €60.7m; the estimate for 2010 is €63.9m. The mortgage interest supplement scheme is currently under review. The main purpose of this review is to examine how the scheme can best meet its objective of catering for those who require assistance on a short-term basis. The review group includes representatives from my Department, the Community Welfare Service, the Departments of Finance and Environment, Heritage and Local Government, together with a representative from the Office of the Financial Regulator.

As part of the initial review, guidelines on specific and immediate operational issues were drawn up and circulated to the community welfare officers. These guidelines are available on the Department's website at www.welfare.ie. The group is examining trends in programme and administrative costs, the impact of the Financial Regulator’s statutory Code of Practice on Mortgage Arrears and legislative and operational issues arising, including the cap on hours of employment. The review is also considering whether alternative approaches to achieving the scheme’s objectives are warranted in the light of recent changes in the economic climate and the mortgage market.

More recently, the Government has established a broader and more comprehensive review of mortgage arrears and personal debt. The Mortgage Arrears and Personal Debt Review Group under the independent chairmanship of Mr. Hugh Cooney, comprises representatives from my own Department, the Departments of Finance, Taoiseach, Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Justice, Equality and Law Reform, and Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. In addition the Group has representatives from the Office of the Financial Regulator, the ESRI, the Irish Banking Federation, the Free Legal Advice Centre and the Law Reform Commission.

The terms of reference for the Group are based on the Renewed Programme for Government, with an emphasis on protecting the family home. They include a review of the statutory Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears and the recently agreed protocol between the Irish Bankers Federation and the Money Advice and Budgeting Service on debt default, with a view to expanding the options available for dealing with debt situations to avoid foreclosure. In addition, the Group is examining measures adopted in other jurisdictions and considering ways of expanding existing mortgage-support measures. I understand that the Group will make its report to the Minister for Finance by the end of June. The conclusions and recommendations from the review of the mortgage interest supplement scheme, which is currently being finalised, will inform the work of this group.

Departmental Programmes

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

294 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of unemployed graduates that have participated in the Gradlink programme since its introduction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21375/10]

There are currently 19 jobseekers categorised as availing of the IBEC Gradlink programme. The objective of the IBEC Gradlink programme is to assist recent graduates improve their skills during the current downturn and prepare them for the economic recovery. The IBEC Gradlink programme was introduced in January 2010 and is run under the auspices of the Irish Business and Employer Confederation (IBEC). The Department's function is to continue payment of the participant's jobseeker's entitlement in the normal way.

Question No. 295 answered with Question No. 66.

Social Welfare Benefits

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

296 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will re-examine the refusal of fuel allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; if he will consider reinstating this allowance with payment of arrears; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21407/10]

The fuel allowance scheme is intended to help households who are dependent on long-term social welfare payments and who are unable to provide for their own heating needs. Entitlement to the allowance is based on a household income test. If, in addition to their pension from the Department, the applicant or members of his/her household have a combined income of more than €100.00 per week, or savings/investments of more than €58,000, a fuel allowance is not payable. According to the information available to the Department, the person is in receipt of a private pension in excess of €100.00 per week. Consequently, he is not entitled to a fuel allowance.

Terence Flanagan

Question:

297 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 13; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21411/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Insurance

Leo Varadkar

Question:

298 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social Protection the details of the promised scheme to give employers a PRSI holiday for newly created jobs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21424/10]

The Employer Job (PRSI) Incentive Scheme will be commenced in June and will be administered by the Department of Social Protection. Regulation pertaining to the scheme is in the final stages of preparation, as are details of scheme administration. The scheme will run for the calendar year 2010 only. However, any qualifying employment created in 2010 will be eligible for the scheme, which will be structured so that employment created prior to the launch can participate for 12 months forward from the time of launch and employment created later in the year will participate for 12 months to the corresponding date in 2011.

Social Welfare Benefits

Leo Varadkar

Question:

299 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons in receipt of the living alone allowance; the cost of same in each of the past ten years; if he will provide a breakdown in numbers of recipients by contributory pensioner, non-contributory pensioner, widowed pensioner, incapacity recipient or disability allowance recipient, invalidity pensioner and blind pension and by age, the total number 66 years or older and 65 years or younger; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21435/10]

I have attached a tabular statement showing the expenditure on living alone allowance by each scheme and a second tabular statement showing the number of recipients of living alone allowance by the primary scheme of the recipient. A breakdown of Widow/er's Contributory Pension by age is not available while Disability Allowance is not payable after age 65.

Expenditure for Living Alone Allowance Relating to the following Schemes 2000 to 2009.

Year

State Pension Contributory(1)

State Pension Non-Contributory

Widow/er’s Contributory Pension

Widow/er’s Non-Contributory Pension(2)

Disability Allowance(4)

Invalidity Pension(3)

Blind Pension

2000

9,335,326

9,933,123

15,347,332

3,069,867

224,224

58,859

2001

9,964,755

9,971,562

15,609,994

3,011,008

1,155,154

2,052,050

158,558

2002

10,415,605

9,952,342

15,888,673

2,961,358

3,105,102

2,710,308

156,957

2003

10,766,756

10,044,434

16,271,455

2,870,067

4,117,313

3,201,198

157,357

2004

11,009,398

9,997,187

16,608,592

2,771,168

5,159,554

3,606,403

164,164

2005

10,911,701

10,072,062

17,645,628

2,726,724

5,933,528

4,035,632

164,564

2006

12,502,890

13,197,584

18,115,297

5,205

6,783,977

3,364,561

107,708

2007

20,904,884

13,174,762

18,559,341

6,807

7,539,932

3,601,598

107,708

2008

21,577,956

13,297,684

19,171,552

7,207

8,435,627

3,721,718

106,506

2009

21,983,161

13,226,013

18,835,617

4,805

8,942,534

3,715,312

108,909

(1) Retirement Pension is not included with State Pension Contributory prior to 2007.

(2) In September 2006 Persons in receipt of Widow/er’s Non-Contributory Pension and Blind Pension aged over 65 switched to State Pension Non-Contributory.

(3) Living Alone Allowance was introduced for Invalidity Pensioners under 66 on 5th April 2001. Recipients of Invalidity Pension aged over 65 switched to State Pension Contributory from September 2006.

(4) Living Alone Allowance was introduced for persons on Disability Allowance in April 2001.

Recipients of Living Alone Allowance Relating to the following Schemes 2000 to 2009.

Year

State Pension Contributory(1)

State Pension Non-Contributory

Widow/er’s Contributory Pension

Widow/er’s Non-Contributory Pension(2)

Disability Allowance(4)

Invalidity Pension(3)

Blind Pension

2000

23,315

24,808

38,330

7,667

560

147

2001

24,887

24,904

38,986

7,520

2,885

5,125

396

2002

26,013

24,856

39,682

7,396

7,755

6,769

392

2003

26,890

25,086

40,638

7,168

10,283

7,995

393

2004

27,496

24,968

41,480

6,921

12,886

9,007

410

2005

27,252

25,155

44,070

6,810

14,819

10,079

411

2006

31,226

32,961

45,243

13

16,943

8,403

269

2007

52,210

32,904

46,352

17

18,831

8,995

269

2008

53,891

33,211

47,881

18

21,068

9,295

266

2009

54,903

33,032

47,042

12

22,334

9,279

272

(1) Retirement Pension is not included with State Pension Contributory prior to 2007.

(2) In September 2006 Persons in receipt of Widow/er’s Non-Contributory Pension and Blind Pension aged over 65 switched to State Pension Non-Contributory.

(3) Living Alone Allowance was introduced for Invalidity Pensioners under 66 on 5th April 2001. Recipients of Invalidity Pension aged over 65 switched to State Pension Contributory from September 2006.

(4) Living Alone Allowance was introduced for persons on Disability Allowance in April 2001.

Social Welfare Code

Leo Varadkar

Question:

300 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social Protection if any research has been carried out on the excess costs of living alone; the way this relates to the current level of the living alone allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21436/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

301 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social Protection if consideration has been given to allowing persons on jobseeker’s benefit, jobseeker’s allowance or the one-parent family payment to apply for the living alone allowance; the estimated cost of such a change in policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21437/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 300 and 301 together.

The European Survey on Income and Living Conditions (SILC) is the main data source for measuring poverty and social exclusion in Ireland. Consistent poverty is the official measurement of poverty in Ireland which measures the percentage of persons below 60 per cent of average income, who are also deprived of goods and services regarded as essential for living in Ireland today, as measured by deprivation indicators. The most recent figures for 2008 show that the level of consistent poverty in Ireland is 4.2 per cent but older people living alone are 4 times less likely to experience consistent poverty than the general population. The level of consistent poverty among older people living alone fell dramatically from 4.1 per cent in 2007 to 0.9 per cent in 2008. Similarly older people living alone were much less likely than the general population to be at risk of poverty using only income as the measure (11 per cent vs. 14.4 per cent).

These reductions represent the success of Government policy in relation to supporting older people. The priority has been to increase personal rates of pension in addition to enhancing the household benefits package which includes TV licence, telephone, electricity/gas and the fuel allowance rather than supplements like the living alone increase. The objective is to use resources to improve the position of all pensioners to the fullest extent possible rather than focusing on particular groups. The living alone increase is an additional payment of €7.70 per week made to people aged 66 years or over who are in receipt of certain social welfare payments and who are living alone. It is also available to people who are under 66 years of age who are living alone and receiving payments under one of a number of invalidity type schemes.

The living alone increase is primarily a benefit for aged 66 or over. Accordingly, there are no plans to extend the payment to people receiving other social welfare payments. In addition, some schemes by their nature could not attract a living alone increase as individuals living alone cannot qualify. This would apply to the one-parent family payment which requires that a child must live with the recipient. My Department does not have information available on the living arrangements of individuals on social welfare payments other than those who are in receipt of living alone increase and accordingly it is not possible to cost the proposal outlined by the Deputy.

Pension Provisions

Michael Ring

Question:

302 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has sufficient contributions to qualify for a State contributory pension on reaching 66 years; if not, if they can make voluntary contributions until they reach the age of 66 years in order to qualify for the State contributory pension. [21438/10]

The Department, to help people assess their position regarding possible future pension entitlements, issues to them a copy of their contribution history record and a ‘Working it Out' booklet which explains how entitlement to a State pension (contributory) is assessed. In order to be admitted as a voluntary contributor a person must:

have at least 260 weeks PRSI contributions paid while in employment or self-employment;

apply to the Department within 12 months after the end of the contribution year during which they last paid compulsory PRSI or had a credited contribution;

agree to pay voluntary contributions from the start of the contribution week after the week in which they last paid compulsory PRSI or had a credited contribution.

The person concerned may wish to contact the Voluntary Contributions Section of the Department to enquire about the possibility of paying voluntary contributions.

Voluntary Contributions Section

Department of Social Protection,

Cork Road,

Waterford.

Telephone: (051) 356000 (01) 7043000

e-mail:volcons@welfare.ie

Social Welfare Appeals

James Reilly

Question:

303 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) in County Dublin who was receiving disability allowance for 20 years has had their entitlement to this payment cancelled; when the appeal will be concluded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21491/10]

Payment of illness benefit, to the person concerned, was disallowed by a Deciding Officer following an examination by a Medical Assessor of the Department who expressed the opinion that she was capable of work. An appeal was opened and in the context of that appeal her case was reviewed by a second Medical Assessor who also expressed the opinion that she was capable of work. I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that, following receipt of the grounds of appeal from the person concerned, the relevant Departmental papers and comments of the Department have been sought. On receipt of its response the case will be referred to an Appeals Officer for consideration. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Social Welfare Benefits

James Bannon

Question:

304 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for unemployment or jobseeker’s allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21510/10]

The person concerned submitted an application for jobseeker's allowance on 29 March 2010. The payment of jobseeker's allowance is subject to a means test and in this regard the file has been forwarded to a Social Welfare Inspector. I understand the Inspector interviewed the person concerned on 20 May 2010 and he has been asked to furnish additional documentation. The jobseeker's allowance file will be returned to a Deciding Officer for decision once the Inspector's report is complete. A person may apply for supplementary welfare allowance from their local Community Welfare Officer while any application for jobseeker's allowance is being processed.

James Bannon

Question:

305 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for child dependant allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21513/10]

The person concerned is currently in receipt of one parent family payment at a weekly rate of €225.80 (€196.00 personal rate + €29.80 child dependent rate in respect of one child). The person concerned has not been awarded child dependent allowance in respect of two other children as they are resident with their father under a Court Order. If there has been a change in circumstances the person concerned should contact Social Welfare Local Office in Longford.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

306 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will consider correspondence (details supplied) in respect of a person; if a domiciliary care allowance will be approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21520/10]

An application for domiciliary care allowance was received in respect of the person in question on 6th April 2010. This application was referred to one of the Department's Medical Assessors who was of the opinion that the child did not meet the required medical criteria to qualify for the allowance. A letter issued to the applicant on 19th May 2010 advising her of the decision to refuse payment. In the case of an application which is refused, the applicant may submit additional information and ask for the case to be reviewed and/or they may appeal the decision by writing to the Social Welfare Appeals Office. On the basis of the additional information supplied by the Deputy, the case will now be reviewed and the customer will be notified in writing of the decision.

Departmental Expenditure

Olwyn Enright

Question:

307 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social Protection the estimated full year spend on all payments administered by his Department in 2010 in tabular form; the estimated number of persons eligible for these payments in 2010 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21537/10]

The 2010 Revised Estimate Volume provides for total expenditure of €20.96 billion, of which €385 million relates to the cost of the administration of the Department. The information sought by the deputy is detailed in tables 1, 2, 3 below.

Table 1: Vote 38

2010 REV

€000

Estimate of Average Number of Recipients

ADMINISTRATION

385,316

N/A

SOCIAL ASSISTANCE

B.

State Pension (Non-Contributory)

946,740

97,020

C.

Blind Pension

15,686

1,470

D.

Child Benefit (No of children)

2,260,990

1,135,300

E.

Jobseeker’s Allowance

2,759,911

235,170

F.

Farm Assist Scheme

96,280

8,400

G.

Employment Support Services

229,330

24,386

H.

Pre-Retirement Allowance

75,440

6,500

I.

One-Parent Family Payment

1,119,932

90,870

J.

Widow(er)s’ Pension & Guardian’s Payment (N/C)

22,460

2,315

K.

Deserted Wives Without Dependent Children

5,070

415

L.

Family Income Supplement

215,040

30,000

M.

Carer’s Allowance

541,460

52,000

N.

Supplementary Welfare Allowances

1,026,439

See Table 3

O.

Disability Allowance

1,100,970

101,500

P.

Respite Care Grant

153,000

90,000

Q.

Free Schemes (Assistance)

408,536

See Table 3

R.

School Meals Schemes

35,000

N/A

S.

Grant to the Family Support Agency

33,509

N/A

T.

Grant to Citizens Information Board

45,872

N/A

U.

Domiciliary Care Allowance

99,264

26,727

V.

Miscellaneous Services

4,892

N/A

Subtotal Assistance

11,195,821

SOCIAL INSURANCE

W.

Payment to the Social Insurance Fund under Section 7(9) of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005.

1,551,448

N/A

Gross Total

13,132,585

Deduct:—

X.

Appropriations-In-Aid

212,720

N/A

Net Total

12,919,865

Table 2: Social Insurance Fund

2010 REV

€000

Estimate of Average Number of Recipients

SOCIAL INSURANCE FUND

INCOME

7,073,988

N/A

EXPENDITURE

Benefits:

Illness Benefit

884,420

78,200

Invalidity Pension

685,610

56,600

Occupational Injuries Benefits

109,750

15,000

Maternity Benefit

351,890

25,000

Health and Safety Benefit

650

58

Adoptive Benefit

1,300

72

Treatment Benefits

34,000

N/A

State Pension (Contributory)

3,430,910

271,000

State Pension (Transition)

111,100

9,300

Jobseeker’s Benefit

1,545,840

146,000

Widows’, Widowers’ Pension (Con)

1,320,260

1,900

Guardian’s Payment (Con)

10,500

415

Widowed Parent Grant

4,800

800

Deserted Wife’s Benefit

93,790

8,600

Carer’s Benefit

31,260

2,100

Bereavement Grant.

20,400

24,000

Free Schemes (Insurance)

302,482

See Table 3

Redundancy & Insolvency Payments (a)

340,000

66,740

Subtotal benefits

9,278,962

Administration (b)

280,700

N/A

Total Expenditure

9,559,662

Excess of expenditure over income

2,485,674

Surplus carried forward

934,226

Deduct: Excess of expenditure over income

-2,485,674

Surplus/deficit at end-year

-1,551,448

Subvention from Vote 38

1,551,448

Table 3: Vote 38 Subheads G, J, N, Q and Free Schemes (Insurance)

2010 REV

€000

Estimate of Average Number of Recipients

G.

ESS

1.

Back to Work Allowance

48,870

6,600

2.

Back to Education Allowance

169,760

17,616

3.

Part Time Job Incentive

1,130

170

4.

Assistance towards training etc. of BTWA participants

3,000

On Demand

5.

Credit Union loan guarantee scheme

20

On Demand

6.

Activation and Family Support Programme

6,000

On Demand

7.

Second-chance education opportunities

380

On Demand

8.

Assist persons unemployed for 5 years or more

0

On Demand

9.

Special payments to long-term unemployed & lone parents

170

On Demand

Total

229,330

J.

Widow(er)s’ Pension & Guardian’s Payment (N/C)

1.

Widows’/Widowers’ Pension (Non/Con)

17,760

1,900

2.

Guardian’s Payment (Non/Con)

4,700

415

Total

22,460

N.

SWA

1.

Basic Supplementary Welfare Allowance Payments

194,550

36,592

2.

Direct Provision payments

5,000

5,060

3.

Supplements i.e.

— Rent (secondary benefit)

509,200

98,000

— Mortgage Interest (secondary benefit)

63,928

16,000

— Other — diet & heating

14,930

On Demand

4.

Except. & urgent needs

90,000

287,000

5.

B-to-S Clothing etc.

82,830

165,000

6.

Humanitarian Aid

1

N/A

7.

Administration

66,000

N/A

Total

1,026,439

Table 3: Subheads G, J, N, Q and Free Schemes (Insurance)

2010 REV

€000

Estimate of Average Number of Beneficiaries

FREE SCHEMES (Assistance):

1.

Free travel

77,000

687,060

2.

Fuel allowance

165,520

220,618

3.

Electricity allowance

82,498

144,216

4.

Free Television Licence

23,076

151,026

5.

Telephone allowance

54,047

172,540

6.

Natural gas allowance

6,176

11,638

7.

Bottled gas allowance

219

1,404

Total

408,536

2010 REV

€000

Estimate of Average Number of Beneficiaries

FREE SCHEMES (Insurance):

1.

Free travel

N/A

2.

Fuel allowance

62,330

114,667

3.

Electricity allowance

119,650

209,255

4.

Free Television Licence

36,100

236,221

5.

Telephone allowance

67,140

214,321

6.

Natural gas allowance

17,230

32,447

7.

Bottled gas allowance

32

263

Total

302,482

Flood Relief

Pat Breen

Question:

308 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Social Protection, further to Parliamentary Question No. 103 of the 19 January 2010, the funding made available to date to the humanitarian assistance scheme for flood claims in County Clare; the number of applications for support; the number of applications refused support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21564/10]

The HSE's Community Welfare Service in County Clare has been providing support to households under the humanitarian assistance scheme since last November's flooding. Up to the 7th May 2010 they had made 453 payments to 100 individuals to the value of €243,201. The HSE has advised that no claim has been refused.

People seeking assistance should contact their local Community Welfare Office. Further information and applications forms in relation to the humanitarian assistance scheme are available from the Community Welfare Service in the affected areas and from the Department's website (www.welfare.ie) and the HSE's website (www.hse.ie).

Social Welfare Benefits

Jack Wall

Question:

309 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection 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. [21568/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Appeals

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

310 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will issue on an oral hearing appeal in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21714/10]

I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that, an oral hearing of this case took place on 17th May 2010 and the Appeals Officer is now considering the appeal in the light of all the evidence submitted, including that adduced at the oral hearing. The person concerned will be notified of the Appeals Officer decision when the appeal has been determined. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

311 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the progress made to date in the determination of eligibility for disability allowance and invalidity payment in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21715/10]

I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an Appeals Officer, having fully considered all the evidence, disallowed the appeal of the person concerned by way of summary decision. The person concerned has been notified of the decision. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Legislative Programme

Jack Wall

Question:

312 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding the commitment in the programme for Government 2007 to legislate for acquired gender identity for transsexuals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19012/10]

Jack Wall

Question:

313 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19013/10]

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

The Renewed Programme for Government, published in October 2009, contains a commitment to introduce legal recognition of the acquired gender of transsexuals. An interdepartmental committee has been established with the following terms of reference:- "To advise the Minister for Social and Family Affairs on the legislation required to provide for legal recognition by the State of the acquired gender of transsexuals. In particular to propose heads of a bill to provide for

The establishment of a process for legal recognition of the acquired gender of persons suffering from Gender Identity Disorder who have made the transition from one gender to the other.

The establishment of a gender recognition register.

The granting of entitlement to transsexuals to marry in the legally recognised reassigned gender

Any other provisions as may be deemed necessary consequent on the main provisions of the Bill".

The committee is made up of representatives of various Departments and Offices of State and had its first meeting on Thursday, 6 May 2010. It is envisaged that the committee, as part of its deliberations, may invite submissions from interested groups, experts in the field and the public. I would expect that the committee will make its recommendations within a period of about 6 months. It is not possible at this early stage to say when the resulting proposals will be introduced in the legislative programme, or indeed, when a Bill will be introduced. I would, however, assure the Deputy that the matter will be treated as a priority by the Department when the deliberations of the committee are finalised.

The position in relation to the Court proceedings referred to is that the matter is under appeal to the Supreme Court. In the circumstances, it is not appropriate for me to comment further.

Social Welfare Benefits

John O'Mahony

Question:

314 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Social Protection the number availing of the farm assist scheme for County Mayo in 2007, 2008 and 2009 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21773/10]

The number of farmers availing of the farm assist scheme in Co. Mayo are as follows:

2007 — 1,506;

2008 — 1,522;

2009 — 1,681;

2010 — 1,751 (at mid May).

The farm assist scheme which was introduced in the Social Welfare Act, 1999 is a practical 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.

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

315 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Social Protection the amount of unspent money returned by his Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21786/10]

The Department of Social Protection incurs voted expenditure under Vote 38 and non-voted expenditure from the social insurance fund. Only voted expenditure is subject to surrender to the Exchequer in the event of an under-spend. The following table shows the estimate and outturn for Vote 38 in 2007, 2008 and 2009:

Vote 38

Estimate

Outturn

Difference

% Difference

€000

€000

€000

%

2007

8,424,644

8,181,274

-243,370

-2.89%

2008

9,631,887

9,328,040

-303,847

-3.15%

2009*

11,130,092

10,877,552

-252,540

-2.27%

* Provisional pending completion of audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General.

Almost all expenditure of the Department of Social Protection is incurred on scheme payments to individual recipients such as pensioners and jobseekers based on pre-determined qualifying conditions and rates of payment, generally set out in legislation. The expenditure, which is demand-led, is driven by economic, social and demographic factors and the under-spends in the years in question are primarily due to these factors.

Social Welfare Benefits

Willie O'Dea

Question:

316 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Limerick will receive back payment owed to them for the period 7 March to 28 March inclusive. [21906/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

317 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons receiving the household benefits in 2009; the cost of this package in 2009; if he will provide a breakdown of the number of persons in receipt of the household package (details supplied) and the associated breakdown of cost per group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21909/10]

I have set out below a tabular statement showing the expenditure on household benefits and free travel by each scheme and a second tabular statement showing the number of recipients of household benefits and free travel by the primary scheme of the recipient. A more detailed breakdown of the recipients of household benefits and free travel is not currently available.

Table: Expenditure on Household Benefits and Free Travel, 2009.

Household Benefits and Free Travel

Expenditure 2009

€000

Fuel Allowances

193,624

Free Electricity

165,515

Free Travel

73,489

Free Bottled Gas

742

Free Natural Gas

16,957

Free Television Licence

55,712

Free Telephone Rental

120,180

Total

626,219

Table: Number of Recipients of Household Benefits and Free Travel by Type of Payment Received, 2009

Type of Payment

Free Electricity Allowance

Free Television Licence

Free Telephone Allowance

Free Bottled Gas

Free Natural Gas

Free Travel

State Pension (Contributory

127,683

147,180

141,410

145

18,115

219,647

State Pension (Non-Contributory

55,792

58,996

55,711

147

2,048

96,580

State Pension (Transition)

170

196

189

0

24

634

Widow/er’s (Contributory) Pension

55,719

64,049

62,333

41

7,691

74,981

Widow/er’s (Non-Contributory Pension

229

244

240

1

13

218

Invalidity Pension

18,414

21,006

19,359

64

2,359

48,022

Deserted Wife’s Allowance

23

24

23

0

1

33

Deserted Wife’s Benefit

940

1,191

1,143

5

236

1,643

One Parent Family Payment

0

0

8

0

0

30

Occupational Injury Benefit

226

316

307

0

48

337

Free Fuel

1,067

1,083

1,061

1

12

1,045

Blind Pension

521

571

426

0

39

1,369

Carer’s Allowance

21,006

24,079

23,484

219

2,615

42,953

Disability Allowance

31,996

35,741

31,531

364

2,620

95,813

Others

23,298

26,466

25,386

43

2,359

95,172

Total

337,124

381,142

362,611

1,030

38,180

678,477

Pension Provisions

Róisín Shortall

Question:

318 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of occupational pension scheme contributors who make contributions on a compulsory basis with a breakdown by public and private sector. [21924/10]

Between defined contribution and defined benefit schemes, there were more than 850,000 pension scheme members in 2008. Excluding some 300,000 public sector members, that means that more than 500,000 private sector employees are members of occupational pension schemes. There is no compulsion on private sector employees to join an occupational pension scheme. Any decision to do so is usually theirs to take. One possible exception is where an employer insists on membership of their occupational pension scheme as part of a person's terms of employment. However, there is no data on the numbers of employers, schemes or employees that this may impact upon. The vast majority of public sector workers are automatically enrolled into a pension scheme on commencement of employment.

Social Welfare Benefits

Jack Wall

Question:

319 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection 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. [21965/10]

Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Social Welfare Code

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

320 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the steps he has taken to date or proposes to take to ensure that every effort is made to meet the requirements of those who have become unemployed and who find themselves with mortgage and other domestic commitments well in excess of anything likely to be manageable in their circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22092/10]

People who are unemployed and unable to meet their mortgage commitments may be entitled under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme to receive a supplement in respect of their mortgage interest. The scheme is administered by the community welfare service of the Health Service Executive (HSE) on behalf of the Department. The purpose of mortgage interest supplement is to provide short term support to enable people to meet their mortgage interest repayments in respect of a house which is their sole place of residence. The supplement assists with the interest portion of the mortgage repayments only.

Each application for mortgage interest supplement is determined by a community welfare officer taking account of the relevant legislative provisions and on the basis of the merits of each individual case. In addition, the HSE may make a single exceptional needs payment to help meet essential, once-off, exceptional expenditure, which a person could not reasonably be expected to meet out of their weekly income. Eligible people would normally be in receipt of a social welfare or HSE payment. There is no automatic entitlement to such payments. ENPs are payable at the discretion of the HSE.

People who are experiencing difficulties in meeting their mortgage repayments or other household bills should immediately contact their finance agency or the relevant utility company to discuss arrangements to address their issues. They should also contact the money advice and budgeting service (MABS) which provides assistance for people with financial difficulties. The service operates from 65 locations throughout the country and can be contacted either through a national telephone helpline or a website. The Government is providing over €18 million this year to the MABS to enable them to assist people with managing their finances and coping with debt problems.

Family Support Services

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

321 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for family income supplement received on an annual basis in the past five years to date in 2010; the number approved or refused in each year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22093/10]

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the attached table.

FIS claims

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010 to date 14/5/10

Received

23,928

30,996

36,868

42,942

46,542

18,769

Awarded

19,371

25,253

27,857

41,669

33,106

12,983

Refused

2,982

4,807

4,394

8,429

9,595

3,266

Social Welfare Benefits

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

322 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for back to education allowance received on an annual basis in the past five years to date in 2010; the number approved or refused in each year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22094/10]

Participants in the back to education allowance (BTEA) scheme transfer from another social welfare payment. Annual statistics are collated by the department for the number of participants on the basis of the relevant academic year. Statistics are not available on the number of applications received or the number who are refused entry to the scheme and, consequently, remain on their existing payment. Details of the number of participants in the BTEA scheme for the academic years 2005/2006 to 2009/2010 are presented in the accompanying Table.

BTEA Participants 2005/2006 to 2009/2010

Academic year

Number of Participants

2005/2006

7,285

2006/2007

8,090

2007/2008

8,883

2008/2009

11,646

2009/2010

20,808

Social Welfare Appeals

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

323 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the average length of time currently taken to process an appeal in respect of jobseeker’s allowance, unemployment benefit, child benefit and widow’s or widower’s pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22096/10]

The statistics requested by the Deputy are given in the accompanying table. A number of initiatives are currently underway designed to enhance the capacity of the office to deal with the current caseload and inflows. In that regard, 2 additional Appeals Officers were assigned to the Office in 2009. A number of additional staff are being assigned to the administration area of the Office. The organisation of the Appeals Officer's work has been changed so as to increase productivity. A project to improve the business processes in the office is underway and a number of improvements have already been implemented. Significant enhancements are being made to the Office's IT and phone systems.

Notwithstanding these measures, it is clear that further additional staff will be required in the short term to address the backlog that has developed. Any such staff must be very experienced and be in a position to operate without significant training. Therefore it has been decided to use experienced retired staff strictly on a short term basis to supplement the current resources.

Average Time in weeks taken To Process Appeals at 30/4/2010

Benefit

Weeks

Child Benefit

19.9

Jobseeker’s Allowance (Means)

22.7

Jobseeker’s Allowance

18.8

Jobseeker’s Benefit

18.2

JA/JB Fraud Control

53.1

Survivor’s Pension (Contributory)

26.4

Survivor’s Pension (Non-contributory)

21.6

Social Welfare Benefits

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

324 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the average length of time currently taken to process an application for unemployment benefit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22097/10]

The national average processing times for jobseeker claims decided during April were 2.33 weeks for jobseeker's benefit and 6.92 weeks for jobseeker's allowance.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

325 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the average length of time taken to process an application for contributory and or non-contributory old age pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22098/10]

The Department is committed to ensuring that claims are processed as expeditiously as possible having regard to the eligibility conditions that apply to each scheme. Over the past number of years a range of initiatives aimed at streamlining the processing of claims, supported by modern technology, have been implemented in the pension scheme area in Sligo. Significant improvements have been achieved in claim processing times and backlogs have been eliminated. Operational processes and procedures and the organisation of work are continually reviewed to ensure that processing capability is maximised.

From January 2009, new processing targets, based on processing 90% of claims, were introduced for all schemes. The processing targets and average performance achieved for the period May 2009 to April 2010 in respect of State Pension Contributory (SPC) and State Pension Non Contributory (SPNC) and State Pension Transition (SPT) are outlined below.

Scheme

Processing Target

Performance (May 2009 to April 2010)

State Pension Contributory

90% by entitlement date

94% achieved

State Pension Non Contributory

90% within 10 weeks

70% achieved

State Pension Transition

90% within 6 weeks

88% achieved

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

326 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for one parent family allowance received in the past 12 months; the number approved and refused; the number referred to appeal; the number of such appeals in respect of which the original decision was overturned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22099/10]

The statistics in respect of One-Parent Family claims requested by the deputy are contained in the accompanying tables:

Month

Registered

Awarded

Disallowed

Closed (Withdrawn)

April 2010

1,597

1,053

167

360

Mar 2010

1,720

1,202

196

362

Feb 2010

1,974

1,071

191

390

Jan 2010

2,522

788

128

307

Dec 2009

1,867

949

115

259

Nov 2009

2,452

1,242

167

371

Oct 2009

3,034

1,198

195

407

Sep 2009

3,253

952

144

315

Aug 2009

2,629

816

132

296

Jul 2009

3,493

1,046

207

366

Jun 2009

3,215

1,045

176

320

May 2009

3,367

1,237

146

270

OFP appeals registered in the period Jan 2009 to end Dec 2009

Number

Total Registered

803

Appeal allowed

120

Appeal disallowed

319

Decision revised by DO

201

Appeal withdrawn by appellant

78

Total appeal finalised

718

OFP appeals registered in the period Jan 2010 to end Apr 2010

Number

Total Registered

385

Appeal allowed

25

Appeal disallowed

81

Decision revised by DO

74

Appeal withdrawn by appellant

30

Total appeal finalised

210

The statistics in respect of appeals are not kept in the same format as the One-Parent Family claims and therefore a breakdown by month is not available.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

327 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for child benefit received in each of the past two years to date in 2010; the number granted and refused; the number referred to appeal; the number of appeals in respect of which the original decision was overturned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22100/10]

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the accompanying table.

2008

2009

Claims Received

93,996

81,451

Claims Awarded

102,062

88,533

Claims Disallowed

1,547

2,393

Appeals Received

688

1,294

Appeals allowed

54

12

The number of claims cleared exceeds the number of claims received in each year, due to a carry forward of claims outstanding from the previous year. Statistics relating to 2010 are not currently available due to ongoing industrial action.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

328 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of refusals of jobseeker’s allowance in each of the past five years to date in 2010; the most common grounds for refusal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22101/10]

The accompanying table shows the number of disallowances of jobseekers allowance in each of the years from 2006 to date:

Total Decisions

Total Disallowances

2006

80,313

10,024

2007

82,072

10,711

2008

110,967

12,996

2009

194,932

21,375

16/5/2010

80,640

10,484

There are a number of reasons why a claim may be disallowed. The most common grounds for refusal are:

Means in Excess

The customer does not satisfy the means test. Their income is greater than the appropriate rate for the jobseekers allowance scheme, taken into account their family composition.

Not Habitually Resident in this country

This is where a customer's centre of interest is deemed not to be in Ireland. There are a number of other factors involved in determining if a customer is Habitually Resident in the State.

Other grounds for refusal relate to the conditions of being available for work or being genuinely seeking work.

All decisions relating to the claim are made by deciding officers and where a person is dissatisfied with a deciding officer's decision, they have a right to appeal to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

329 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for carer’s allowance refused in each of the past five years to date in 2010; the number of such refusals based on medical grounds or means test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22102/10]

Entitlement to carer's allowance is based on the applicant satisfying medical, means and residency conditions. The information requested by the Deputy is presented in tabular format.

Carer's allowance refusals 2006-2010

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010*

Total carer’s allowance claims refused

1,032

1,453

2,528

4,081

2,047

Claims refused — medical or means grounds

724

980

1,637

2,975

1,535

*To 30 April 2010.

Defence Forces Recruitment

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

330 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Defence when he plans to introduce recruitment again to the Naval and Defence Forces; and if so, the dates and numbers and so on. [21371/10]

Within the available resources, the Government is committed to maintaining the strength of the Permanent Defence Force 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 30 April 2010 was 9,856 comprising 8,036 Army, 797 Air Corps and 1,023 Naval Service personnel. As the Deputy will be aware I have recently approved the recruitment of 40 Recruits for the Naval Service. The recruitment competition for the Naval Service commenced on Friday 14 May 2010 and will close on Friday 4 June 2010. Further recruitment to the Permanent Defence Force along with issues relating to promotions and acting appointments are kept under ongoing review.

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.

Defence Forces Property

Brian O'Shea

Question:

331 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Defence his plans for digitising the aerial photographic archives of the Defence Forces for publication on the Internet in view of the education and heritage value of such a project and the popularity of modern day aerial photography technologies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21413/10]

The Air Corps provides an aerial photographic service for the Defence Forces. Photographs produced at the request of the military authorities were done so for security or Air Corps operational reasons. They were never produced or categorised with a view to making them available to the public. In the past, the Air Corps provided an aerial photographic service to Ordnance Survey Ireland. This arrangement is now discontinued but Ordnance Survey Ireland may be able to provide information on the photographs retained by it. There are no plans in place to commence a project to publish the aerial photographs held by the Defence Forces. Aside from security issues involved, it would require significant expenditure of manpower and resources which could not be justified in the current circumstances.

Departmental Agencies

John O'Mahony

Question:

332 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Defence the agencies or bodies to which his Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which his Department is responsible in respect of his policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21749/10]

The bodies under the aegis of the Department are the Civil Defence Board, the Army Pensions Board and the Board of Coiste an Asgard. The information requested in relation to the yearly financial allocation is as follows:

Name of Agency

2007

2008

2009

2010

Civil Defence Board

€6,099m (Grant in aid)

€6,248m (Grant in Aid)

€6,148m (Grant In Aid)

€6,148m (Grant In Aid)

Army Pensions Board

€103,000

€105,000

€104,000

€110,000

Coiste an Asgard

€879,000

€803,000

€830,000

€0

The Department also provides support services (finance, IT, human resources) to these bodies. In the context of settling the Estimates for the Department for 2010, the Government decided that the national sail training scheme operated by Coiste an Asgard would be discontinued as recommended in the Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure. As a result, no funding has been provided in 2010. In addition, the Department makes a grant in aid to the Irish Red Cross Society. The Office of the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces is also provided for from the vote of the Department of Defence.

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

333 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Defence the amount of unspent money returned by his Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21778/10]

Details of the amount of the gross Departmental budget (i.e. the combined Defence and Army Pensions Estimates) and of the combined amount surrendered to the Exchequer for the years 2007 to 2009 are given in the following table. A broad indication of the composition of the amount surrendered each year follows the table.

Year

Budget (Gross)

Surrender

Reason for Surrender

€m

€m

2007

1,013

1.3

See Note (a)

2008

1,095

9.9

See Note (b)

2009

1,040

23.4

See Note (c)

(a) This amount was made up of savings across a range of pay and non-pay subheads (including subheads B — PDF Pay, D — RDF Pay and L — Buildings), offset by various excesses mainly on subheads I — Military Transport, M — Ordnance, Clothing and Catering, and reduced Appropriations-in-Aid.

(b) This amount was made up of savings across a range of pay and non-pay subheads (including subheads B — PDF Pay, I — Military Transport, L — Buildings and P — Travel and Freight Services), offset by various excesses mainly on subheads G — Defensive Equipment and M — Ordnance, Clothing and Catering.

(c) This amount was made up of savings across a range of subheads (including subheads G — Defensive Equipment, I — Military Transport, J — Naval Service, M — Ordnance, Clothing and Catering, and surplus Appropriations–in-Aid, offset by various excesses mainly on subheads C — PDF Allowances and R — Lands.

About 70% of the Defence Estimate is expended on the pay and allowances of Defence Forces personnel, civilian employees and civil service staff. The non-pay current expenditure provides for the day-to-day standing costs of the Defence Forces, expenditure on operations and the procurement of equipment. Defence capital expenditure focuses on new building works to improve the accommodation and facilities of the Defence Forces. The Army Pensions Estimate makes provision for the payment of retirement and disability-related benefits to former members of the Defence Forces and the spouses and children of deceased members .

Defence Forces Property

Pat Breen

Question:

334 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Defence, further to Parliamentary Question No. 428 of 18 May 2010, if he will make available a copy of the executive or administrative Act that introduced or designated the restricted zone around Baldonnel Aerodrome, County Dublin, in 1955; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21837/10]

I would refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 428 of 18 May, 2010 which stated that there was no statutory mechanism by which the zone was designated. The executive act that introduced the area was a submission to the then Dublin County Council in line with the Planning and Development Acts. Since then regular submissions have been made to make alterations to the area.

Pat Breen

Question:

335 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Defence, further to Parliamentary Question No 594 of 13 December 2007, if he will outline in tabular form the respective sizes of both the proposed public safety zones and the existing red zones, each of which are also graphically outlined in the recent Mott McDonald report as well as the ratio, expressed as a percentage, of the said public safety zones to the red zones in respect of each of runways 05, 11, 23 and 29 at Casement Aerodrome, County Dublin.. [21838/10]

I would refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 297 of 11 May 2010 which stated that a comparison of the Public Safety Zones with the Red Zones is not practical due to the contours of the land encapsulated by these Zones.

Defence Forces Recruitment

Deirdre Clune

Question:

336 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Defence when a decision on whether there will be a Defence Force cadet class in 2010 will be made; when such a decision will be communicated to the public to allow persons who are waiting to apply for the class to either make an application or make alternative career choices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21919/10]

Within the available resources, the Government is committed to maintaining the strength of the Permanent Defence Force 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 question of a cadet class in 2010 is being considered in the context of the review of structures and posts required to meet the operational requirements of the Defence Forces and the Government decision to maintain a complement of 10,000 personnel. Following agreement with the Department of Finance on the re-organisation, I will make an announcement, at the earliest possible opportunity, in relation to the holding of a cadetship competition in 2010.

Local Authority Charges

Joe McHugh

Question:

337 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he acknowledges that the non-principal private residence tax is being levied on owners of non-principal residences this month; if he further acknowledges that this tax is being levied this month on owners who paid the annual tax on 31 July 2009; the reason the tax is being levied twice in one tax year; his views on whether owners who paid that tax on 31 July 2009 should not be asked to pay the tax until 31 July 2010; if he will treat with one specific case (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21832/10]

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.

Litter Pollution

Pat Breen

Question:

338 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to review the 1878 Public Health Ireland Act with a view to increasing the fines imposed for littering on a person’s property; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21953/10]

The Litter Pollution Acts 1997 to 2009 provide the statutory framework for combating litter pollution in Ireland. Section 6 of the 1997 Act places an onus on owners and occupiers of property to keep their properties litter free to the extent that they are public places or are visible from a public place. Section 9 of the same Act empowers local authorities to serve a notice on any person contravening the provisions of Section 6, requiring them to remove any litter to which the contravention relates, and/or to take any precautionary measures which the local authority considers necessary.

Penalties for offences under the Litter Pollution Acts 1997 to 2009 are substantial, ranging from an on-the-spot fine of €150, to a maximum fine of €3,000 on summary conviction and a maximum fine of €130,000 on conviction on indictment. The fines for continuing offences following conviction are €600 per day for summary offences and €10,000 per day for indictable offences. A person convicted of a litter offence may also be required by the Courts to pay the local authority's costs and expenses in investigating the offence, taking remedial action to remove the litter and in bringing the prosecution. I have no current plans to increase the level of fines for litter related offences.

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Question:

339 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has appointed, as proposed in the budget 2010, a bord snip for local government; if so, the members of same; the deadline he has set for the group to report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21425/10]

The Local Government Efficiency Review Group has been established and I have asked that it complete its work by mid 2010. The Group's findings and recommendations will then be considered in the appropriate policy and financial contexts. The membership of the Group is as follows:

Mr. Pat McLoughlin, Chairman, CEO of the Irish Payment Services Organisation

Mr. Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

Professor John O'Hagan, Department of Economics, Trinity College

Mr. John Quinlivan, former County Manager

Mr. Donal McNally, Second Secretary General, Department of Finance

Ms. Geraldine Tallon, Secretary General, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government

Planning Issues

Michael D'Arcy

Question:

340 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of the current economic climate, he will consider waiving fingerpost signage fees for businesses who wish to give directions to their premises. [21450/10]

Michael D'Arcy

Question:

341 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on whether the €800 euro fee for fingerpost signs per annum is a reasonable charge in this current economic climate. [21451/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 340 and 341 together.

Section 254 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 provides for a licensing system for the placement of various structures and appliances on, under, over or along a public road, including maps for indicating directions or places. This licensing system enables a local authority to exercise control over the placing of structures on roads to prevent traffic hazards arising.

The Planning and Development Regulations, 2001 prescribe the level of fees to be charged in respect of structures and appliances licensed under Section 254 of the 2000 Act. The Regulations prescribe a fee of €630 for an advertisement structure or €50 in the case of an advertisement structure that is of a fingerpost type, not exceeding 1 metre in length, consisting of a direction sign to indicate tourist accommodation. Consideration is being given in my Department to reviewing this matter and the associated fees, in consultation with planning authorities.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

342 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if developers are obliged to facilitate the connection to the main gas line when it is immediately available to an estate; if the developer is obliged retrospectively as the property manager; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21455/10]

While I am not aware of any legal provisions which would compel a developer to facilitate a connection between an estate and the gas line, it would be general practice that a developer, in framing his development proposal and in his discussions with the planning authority and other key stakeholders including utility providers, would seek to make best use of the available infrastructure and services in the area.

Motor Tax

Tom Sheahan

Question:

343 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will consider introducing terms of one month road tax for lorries involved in haulage business in view of the fact that many are only working on short-term contracts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21469/10]

I have no plans at present to introduce one-month terms for motor vehicle licences. A change from the present system of issuing licences on a quarterly, half-yearly and annual basis would result in significant increases in staffing requirements, administration and printing costs in motor tax offices. It could also lead to increases in the cost of motor tax to the average motorist as the increased administrative costs would have to be reflected in the rates of tax.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

344 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if a van can be taxed commercially even if the owner is not yet VAT registered; if not and the van is taxed privately, if the owner can then legally carry work tools in the van; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21494/10]

When an application for a motor vehicle licence is received, motor taxation authorities are required by law to satisfy themselves that the tax disc for which the application is made is the appropriate disc for the vehicle in question. In the case of a commercial vehicle, the applicant must complete a statutory declaration, produce a weight docket if the vehicle is under a certain weight, provide evidence of commercial insurance and provide a roadworthiness certificate if the vehicle is over one year old. Evidence of registration for VAT is not routinely sought. There is no prohibition in the motor tax code in regard to the carrying of work tools in a vehicle which has been taxed privately.

Water and Sewerage Schemes

Frank Fahey

Question:

345 Deputy Frank Fahey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the stage of planning of the Claregalway sewerage scheme, County Galway; if the plan is with his Department or the county council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21503/10]

Frank Fahey

Question:

346 Deputy Frank Fahey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the stage of planning of the Barna sewerage scheme, County Galway; if the plan is with his Department or the county council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21504/10]

Frank Fahey

Question:

347 Deputy Frank Fahey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the stage of planning of the Clifden sewerage scheme, County Galway; if the plan is with his Department or the county council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21505/10]

Frank Fahey

Question:

348 Deputy Frank Fahey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the stage of planning of the Oughterard sewerage scheme, County Galway; if the plan is with his Department or the county council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21506/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 345 to 348, inclusive, together.

A comprehensive range of new water services infrastructure has been approved for County Galway in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas Library. The total value of contracts underway and those proposed for commencement during the period of the Programme in County Galway is €130 million. The Programme provides for the commencement of contracts relating to the Claregalway, Clifden and Oughterard Sewerage Schemes, while work on the Barna Sewerage Scheme is substantially completed. My Department is currently examining the contract documents for the combined Claregalway and Milltown Sewerage Scheme and a decision on those documents will be conveyed to Galway County Council as soon as possible.

Further progress on the Clifden Sewerage Scheme must await the Council's response to my Department's request in March 2010 to review the contract documents and to submit a Certificate of Completion of Planning for the scheme. In relation to the Oughterard Sewerage Scheme, the Council has appointed consultants to prepare a Design Review Report so as to ensure that the most suitable and effective scheme is put forward. Once the Report is submitted and approved by my Department, the Council can then proceed with the preparation of contract documents for the scheme.

Local Authority Charges

Joe McHugh

Question:

349 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will explain the facility that is in place for persons with more than one property who are not in a position to pay the €200 levy and who are unable to sell the second home on the open market due to limited demand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21525/10]

The Local Government (Charges) Act 2009, which sets out the provisions relating to the charge on non-principal private residences, does not provide for a waiver scheme. Owners of second properties would not normally be in a category of persons for whom a waiver scheme would generally be necessary or appropriate, and the charge is relatively modest. The Act places collection of the charge under the care and management of the relevant local authority.

Housing Adaptation Grants

Olwyn Enright

Question:

350 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if an application for funding of an extension to facilitate the needs of a person (details supplied) in County Offaly has been submitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21538/10]

No application has been received in my Department in relation to this matter.

Local Authority Loans

Joan Burton

Question:

351 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the nominal value of any loans being considered for transfer from a local authority to his Department and or to the National Asset Management Agency by local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21544/10]

My Department issued a circular to housing authorities in early April 2010 setting out revised arrangements for the funding of land used for social housing and seeking information on local authority residential land holdings for the purpose of land-use strategy planning. This circular invites authorities to apply to my Department to recoup the cost of outstanding loans on the land where these loans are due to mature before the end of 2010 and where it is considered that the land is unlikely to be developed in the short to medium term. Subject to available funding my Department may pay off the costs of the land and transfer ownership to a central agency. These lands will continue to be available for social housing if housing projects are advanced by authorities under the Social Housing Investment Programme.

There is no proposal to transfer lands or loans currently held by local authorities to the National Asset Management Agency (NAMA). However, it is intended that my Department will work closely with NAMA in the interests of proper planning and to secure best use of public land.

Planning Issues

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

352 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding a project brief (details supplied) submitted by a local authority for a development; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the area is subject to severe flooding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21546/10]

All planning authorities are required to have regard to the Guidelines to Planning Authorities on the Planning System and Flood Risk Management, issued under section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, in the performance of their functions. Initial proposals for the project in question were recently submitted by Kildare County Council and are currently under examination in my Department.

Environmental Protection Agency

Phil Hogan

Question:

353 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the review of the Environmental Protection Agency will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21549/10]

On foot of a commitment in the Programme for Government, a review of the Environmental Protection Agency commenced in February 2010. Details of the review, including the associated public consultation process currently underway, are available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie. I expect the Review Group to be in a position to submit its report and recommendations to me in Autumn 2010.

Social and Affordable Housing

Pat Breen

Question:

354 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of families that have been housed in County Clare under the rental accommodation scheme in each of the past five years to 2009 and to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21555/10]

Since the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) became operational in September 2005 to the end of Quarter One of 2010, some 535 households in County Clare have been transferred from rent supplement. Of these, 343 are housed directly in RAS accommodation and a further 192 are accommodated under other social housing options. A breakdown by year of these transfers is set out in the table.

Year

RAS Transfers

Other Social Housing Options

Total

2005

44

0

44

2006

48

48

96

2007

60

34

94

2008

75

59

134

2009

102

33

135

2010 (Qtr. 1)

14

18

32

Pat Breen

Question:

355 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of homes in County Clare that have been made available for social housing under the long-term leasing scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21556/10]

To date, no homes have been provided in County Clare under the long-term leasing scheme.

Housing Adaptation Grants

Pat Breen

Question:

356 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the funding provided to Clare County Council under the housing adaption grant for people with a disability scheme in each of the past five years to 2009; the amount allocated for 2010; the number of houses in County Clare adapted under this scheme in each of those years; the number that will be adapted under the scheme in Clare in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21557/10]

Pat Breen

Question:

357 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the funding provided to Clare County Council under the mobility aids housing grant scheme in each of the past five years to 2009; the amount allocated for 2010; the number of houses in County Clare adapted under this scheme in each of those years; the number that will be adapted under the scheme in County Clare in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21558/10]

Pat Breen

Question:

358 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the funding provided to Clare County Council under the housing aid for older people grant scheme in each of the past five years to 2009; the amount allocated for 2010; the number of houses in County Clare benefiting under this scheme in each of those years; the number that will benefit under the scheme in County Clare in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21559/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 356 to 358, inclusive, together.

My Department's involvement with the Housing Adaptation Grant Schemes for Older People and People with a Disability relates primarily to the recoupment of a proportion of local authority expenditure on the payment of individual grants. The grant schemes, introduced in November 2007, are funded by 80% recoupment available from my Department together with a 20% contribution from the resources of the local authority. The new suite of grants replaced the discontinued Disabled Persons Grant Scheme, the Essential Repairs Grant Scheme and the Special Housing Aid for the Elderly Scheme, administered by the Health Service Executive.

It is a matter for each local authority to decide on the specific level of funding to be directed to each of the various grant measures from within the allocations notified to them by my Department and to manage the operation of the schemes in their areas from within their allocation. Details of the annual Exchequer allocations to Clare County Council and the number of grants paid under each scheme for the period 2005 to 2009 are set out in the table below. Data for 2005 and 2006 relate to the discontinued Disabled Persons and Essential Repairs Grant Schemes. Data for 2007 onwards include the new Housing Adaptation Grant Scheme for People with a Disability, the Housing Aid for Older People and the Mobility Aids Grant Schemes.

Suite of Grants for Older People and People with a Disability

Year

Allocation

Housing Adaptation Grant No. paid

Housing Aid for Older People No. paid

Mobility Aids Grant No. paid

Disabled Persons Grant No. paid

Essential Repairs Grant No. paid

2005

1,018.770

101

46

2006

846,596

77

32

2007

857,560

86

31

2008

2,100,790

28

66

15

149

39

2009

1,652,000

71

49

23

36

5

On 5 March 2010 my Department notified Clare County Council of an Exchequer allocation of €2.5 million for the grant schemes this year.

Turbary Rights

Pat Breen

Question:

359 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 757 of 20 April 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. [21570/10]

The contracts of sale have been amended as required and my Department forwarded the deposit monies to the Chief State Solicitor's Office on 14 April 2010. It is now a matter for the solicitors for both sides to prepare the documents with a view to closing the sale.

Local Authority Charges

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

360 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if a separated couple are exempt from the non-principal private residence charge when the second residence becomes the primary residence of one party; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21739/10]

The Local Government (Charges) Act 2009 which sets out the provisions of the non-principal private residence charge, provides at section 4(4) for an exemption to the charge in the case of a property where the owner is, or was, a party to a marriage, the other party to that marriage lives in the property in question as his or her sole or main residence and where a decree of divorce or judicial separation has been granted in respect of the marriage.

Departmental Agencies

John O'Mahony

Question:

361 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the agencies or bodies to which his Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which his Department is responsible in respect of his policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21752/10]

Details in respect of funding provided directly by my Department to agencies and bodies under the aegis of my Department for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 are set out in the table below. Such agencies and bodies may be funded solely by my Department or through a combination of income from my Department, local authorities and other funds including their own resources and fees. Additional funding has been on occasion provided to various agencies in respect of specific projects.

Name of body/board

Funding Provided by DEHLG in 2007

Funding Provided by DEHLG in 2008

Funding Provided by DEHLG in 2009

2010 Allocation

Affordable Homes Partnership

0

3,465,000

3,210,000

2,127,000

An Bord Pleanála

15,990,000

15,098,000

15,331,000

13,029,000

Building Regulations Advisory Board

8,000

19,000

11,000

20,000

An Chomhairle Leabharlanna

None

None

None

None

Comhar Sustainable Development Council

*420,080

*673,880

*465,332

*592,200

Designated Areas Appeals Advisory Board

157,046

175,091

42,708

200,000

Dublin Docklands Development Authority

None

None

None

None

Environmental Protection Agency

**39,659,257

**51,142,902

**51,531,573

**43,715,000

Fire Services Council

634,000

653,000

170,000

1,000

The Heritage Council

13,536,000

13,403,000

10,142,000

8,482,000

Housing Finance Agency

None

None

None

None

Irish Water Safety

639,000

652,000

556,000

539,000

Limerick Northside Regeneration Agency

0

801,000

2,803,000

2,803,000

Limerick Southside Regeneration Agency

0

801,000

2,802,000

2,802,000

Local Government Computer Services Board

None

None

None

None

Local Government Management Services Board

None

None

None

None

National Building Agency

None

None

None

None

Private Residential Tenancies Board

5,740,000

3,812,000

1,000,000

***0

Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII)

3,971,000

4,676,000

4,245,000

3,685,000

The Rent Tribunal

20,000

42,000

28,000

****0

*Environment Fund.

**Vote and Environment Fund.

***Self-financing — No longer in receipt of exchequer funding.

****Merged with PRTB.

Grant Payments

Brendan Howlin

Question:

362 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a full response will be issued in respect of representations made on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Wexford on 25 January 2010 and acknowledged by his Department on 9 February 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21766/10]

My Department reviewed the decision made in 1998 in relation to an application by the person referred to under the New House Grant Scheme. A letter advising of the outcome of this review was issued on 21 May, 2010.

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

363 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of unspent money returned by his Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21781/10]

Details of expenditure estimates and outturns for the relevant years are set out in the following table.

Year

Estimate (Net)

Outturn (Net)

Deferred Surrender (Carryover)

Surplus surrendered

€m *

€m *

€m *

€m *

2007

2,964

2,950

0

14

2008

3,184

3,154

6

23

2009

2,668

2,652

3

13

2010

2,174

*All figures rounded up.

Further information in this regard is contained in the annual Revised Estimates for Public Services published by the Department of Finance and Appropriation Accounts published by the Comptroller and Auditor General (the latter contain explanations of variations between estimate and outturn).

House Prices

Joan Burton

Question:

364 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 30 of 22 April 2010, the timeline for the creation of a comprehensive house price database, as foreseen in the programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21822/10]

The renewed Programme for Government sets out a clear commitment to create and maintain a comprehensive House Price Database based on sales prices. My Department has met with a broad range of interested parties in regard to the shape that such a register might take, and recommendations arising from this process will be made to Government shortly. The timing of the establishment of the register will be determined by a range of factors including the possible need for amendment of the Data Protection Acts to allow for publication of achieved sales prices.

State Airports

Pat Breen

Question:

365 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 320 of 11 May 2010 that the designation of public safety zones around Dublin, Cork and Shannon Airports will require primary legislation, the reason such designation will not be implemented in the various county development plans by way of the planning process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21826/10]

As stated in reply to Question No. 320 of 11 May 2010, it is my understanding that development objectives and designations for the proposed public safety zones around the 3 state airports have already been incorporated into the development plans and, where applicable, local area plans of the relevant local authorities.

Water Services

John Cregan

Question:

366 Deputy John Cregan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to have water meters installed in households throughout the country; if these meters will be installed by local authorities or private companies; and if there will be a tendering process for the work involved. [21836/10]

In December 2009, following a decision by Government, I indicated that I would be bringing forward proposals for the installation of water meters in households served by public water supplies. These proposals, which my Department is now finalising, will give effect to the commitment in the renewed Programme for Government to introduce charging for domestic water in a way that is fair, significantly reduces waste and is easily applied. I expect to bring these proposals to Government in the coming weeks. I will provide further detail on these matters, including the installation of the meters and the tendering process, following their consideration and approval by Government.

Waste Disposal

Enda Kenny

Question:

367 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent of public education programmes and other programmes now in place to implement a food waste strategy with the target of reducing fresh food waste; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21883/10]

The National Waste Prevention Programme (NWPP) was established in April 2004 in accordance with the policy document Preventing and Recycling Waste — Delivering Change. Implementation of the Programme is a matter for the EPA. A National Waste Prevention Committee (NWPC), which includes a broad stakeholder group including governmental, non-governmental, business and sectoral interests, was also established to provide strategic direction for the EPA in implementing the Programme. The aim is to deliver substantive results on waste prevention and minimisation and integrate a range of initiatives addressing awareness-raising, technical and financial assistance, training and incentive mechanisms.

In 2009, the EPA published a new Prevention Plan 2009-2012 which is a framework statement of intent for work to be completed, subject to resources, on the Prevention Programme for the four-year period to 2012. A key part of the plan is the marketing and promotion of prevention opportunities available to all organisations and householders. The Programme will be resourced as necessary to reduce the volume of waste and with a view to building on its success to date. In particular, in accordance with the importance attributed to prevention in the Waste Framework Directive, my Department will work with the EPA and all relevant stakeholders to deliver an effective programme which supports those homes and businesses which seek to reduce their production of residual waste.

The Department will also work with the EPA on the development of a National Food Waste Prevention Programme, as outlined in the renewed Programme for Government. The EPA's website contains a list of useful resources in relation to food waste such as the "Less Food Waste" booklet, with advice on preventing food waste in the catering sector, "Calling Time on Waste" booklet, with advice on preventing food waste in pubs, and the "Stopfoodwaste.ie" website with tips on food waste prevention in the home and home composting.

EU Directives

Enda Kenny

Question:

368 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the implementation of the birds and habitats directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21884/10]

Ireland is making significant progress in ensuring that these directives are correctly implemented. Since coming into office, I have placed a high priority on addressing the implications of a number of adverse findings against Ireland by the European Court of Justice. My Department is at present preparing substantial legislative measures to deal with transposition deficiencies that have been identified. The Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2009 and amended European Communities (Birds and Habitats) Regulations will ensure legal clarity in regard to obligations under these directives in respect of a range of consent processes.

In addition, a comprehensive designation programme of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs) undertaken by my Department is almost complete and will address concerns of the Court that Ireland had not correctly identified and protected these sites. Thirdly, measures are being taken to ensure that particular pressures on protected birds, species and habitats are addressed in terms of regulation and practice. These include a wide range of activities, including but not limited to aquaculture and fishery licensing, forestry consents, agricultural practices in certain areas, recreational activities in certain areas, turf-cutting on designated sites and arterial drainage.

Pest Control

Enda Kenny

Question:

369 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the arrangements in place for controlling the population of wild mink in the country; the estimated extent of this population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21886/10]

Enda Kenny

Question:

370 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the assessed damage and destruction of other wildlife species by wild mink; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21887/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 369 and 370 together.

Mink found in the wild in Ireland are descended from animals that escaped from fur farms. They have been breeding in the wild since the 1950s and are now found throughout the country. A report published by my Department in 2009 estimated that the potential population of wild mink in the State was between 20,500 and 33,500 individuals. The report also identified ground nesting birds as the wild species most vulnerable to mink predation. Accordingly, my Department is concentrating its resources on protecting the nesting sites of rare and threatened bird species including red-throated divers, corncrakes, waders and terns from a range of predators including mink. Experience has shown that targeted control of predators at specific times can have a significant benefit to the breeding success of these species. This year some €60,000 will be spent on this work. As wild mink are not protected under the Wildlife Acts 1976 and 2000 they can also be trapped freely by landowners and their agents.

Water and Sewerage Schemes

Pat Breen

Question:

371 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 175 of 25 February 2010, the reason a project (details supplied) in County Clare is not included in the Water Services Investment Programme 2010 — 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21949/10]

The Water Services Investment Programme 2010 — 2012, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas Library, provides for the development of a comprehensive range of new water services infrastructure in County Clare. While the Programme includes contracts under construction and to commence to the value of some €38 million in the county during the period of the Programme, it was not possible to include the Broadford Sewerage Scheme amongst the priority contracts and schemes selected for inclusion.

The new Programme aims to prioritise projects that target environmental compliance issues and support economic and employment growth as envisaged in the Government's policy document Building Ireland's Smart Economy — A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal. A key input to the development of the Programme was the assessment of needs prepared by local authorities, including Clare County Council, in response to my Department's request to the authorities in 2009 to review and prioritise their proposals for new capital works in their areas. These were subsequently appraised in the Department in the context of the funds available and key criteria that complemented those used by the authorities. Inevitably, through this process, certain projects that had been proposed had to give way to others that are more strategically important at this time.

Social and Affordable Housing

Pat Breen

Question:

372 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 480 of the 20 October 2009, if funding will be provided for a project (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21950/10]

I refer to the reply to Question No. 480 of 20 October 2009. My Department has been in regular contact with Kilrush Town Council in relation to this project. The Town Council is currently addressing remaining design concerns in conjunction with my Department. The project will be advanced as soon as possible within the Remedial Works Programme 2009-2011, subject to agreement on an inclusive programme of development works. My Department has also approved funding for the upgrade of six vacant properties in the Estate under the Energy Efficiency Grants Scheme.

Legal Costs

David Stanton

Question:

373 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of legal proceedings taken against his Department which were settled out of court in the last 12 months; the amount of money paid out by his Department in respect of each case; if liability was admitted by his Department in any of these settlements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22112/10]

The information requested is set out in the table below.

No.

Amount

Liability Admitted (Yes/No)

1

€14,391.35

No

2

€1,800,000.00 (plus costs which have not yet been settled)

No

3

€0

No

Energy Conservation

Liz McManus

Question:

374 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the breakdown of the warmer homes scheme by geographical area; the number of applicants for each area in 2009 and to date in 2010; the waiting lists for each area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21378/10]

The Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS), managed by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), provides energy efficiency improvements to homes in, or at risk of, fuel poverty. The scheme is delivered using two modes of delivery, community based organisations (CBOs) of which 23 have been approved to date, and a panel of private contractors. CBOs work in partnership with their local network of poverty and community support organisations including public health nurses, MABS and the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul to identify and address vulnerable homes. Through this devolution model each CBO is responsible for managing the applications in their own operational areas. SEAI is therefore not directly involved in the application process where CBOs are involved. Private contractors were engaged on a pilot basis in 2009 to address the increasing demand for the scheme. Through these mechanisms, the Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS) was delivered to 16,240 homes in 2009. A further 2,886 homes received similar measures through the ESB's Home Insulation Scheme in 2009.

I am pleased to report that the WHS is now available nationwide using a dual model of delivery with CBOs in their set geographical areas and private contractors extending the geographic reach of the programme while also providing deeper measures including central heating in certain homes. The waiting time for the WHS varies, and is generally between 3 and 6 months. SEAI with the combined use of CBOs and contractors is actively working towards reducing waiting time for the scheme, making it as accessible as possible to those in most need and providing a consistent delivery of the scheme nationwide. More generally the Deputy may wish to note that a dedicated hot line — 1800 250 204 — has been in operation for some time and all queries, from scheme applicants and public representatives, on delivery dates for individual households and/or funding agreements are dealt with immediately. In addition, the WHS programme manager, Mr. Michael Martin of the SEAI, is available to deal with queries on 042 939 1548. The availability of both points of contact ensures that there is no delay in dealing with specific queries related to the delivery of the WHS.

The number and location of recipients of the WHS and the Home Insulation scheme in 2009 and the WHS to date in 2010 are as follows:

Counties

Total No. of Low Income Homes to receive EE upgrades from SEI & ESB in 2009

Total No. of Low Income Homes in receipt of the WHSYTD 2010

Carlow

521

0

Cavan

415

102

Clare

110

12

Cork

3,022

1,134

Donegal

573

239

Dublin

2,320

746

Galway

759

24

Kerry

808

248

Kildare

906

265

Kilkenny

829

20

Laois

387

14

Leitrim

218

113

Limerick

453

222

Longford

199

68

Louth

1627

319

Mayo

384

155

Meath

851

283

Monaghan

373

94

Offaly

544

26

Roscommon

431

153

Sligo

47

20

Tipperary

203

83

Waterford

1443

301

Westmeath

466

77

Wexford

595

488

Wicklow

642

274

Total

19,126

5,480

Telecommunications Services

Eamon Scanlon

Question:

375 Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the provision of broadband for the Lecklasser, Ballintrillick areas of County Sligo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21397/10]

Neither area cited in the Deputy's Question has been designated for inclusion as part of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS). Prior to the commencement of the NBS a detailed mapping exercise was carried out to help determine those areas that would be included in the scheme and those which, by virtue of being already substantially served by existing broadband suppliers, were to be excluded. EU State aid and competition rules govern how states can intervene in areas where there are existing service providers operating. Accordingly, the NBS is prohibited from providing a service in served areas where to do so would give rise to an unacceptable level of market distortion. That mapping exercise found a number of broadband suppliers were already active in the areas referred to in the Deputy's Question and consequently the localities were excluded from the Scheme. Details of broadband services available in each county, including county Sligo, can be found on ComReg's website at www.callcosts.ie.

Postal Services

Liz McManus

Question:

376 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has been in contact with the Data Commissioner in regard to his latest proposal for postcodes; the outcome of that meeting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21403/10]

I have met with the Data Commissioner in 2009 and in 2010 in regard to this matter and detailed discussions have also taken place at official level. The Commissioner has confirmed that he does not oppose a unique identifier postcode model provided that appropriate safeguards were put in place as to the uses that could be made of such a postcode. I will consult with the Data Commissioner in this regard as necessary in the context of the introduction of a postcodes system.

Electricity Generation

James Reilly

Question:

377 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the electricity consumption each month from January 2006 to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21412/10]

EirGrid plc is the Irish transmission system operator and has a statutory responsibility for forecasting and reporting on supply and demand in the Irish electricity system. EirGrid has been able to provide the following data in regard to the total consumption of electricity in Ireland by month from January 2007 to April 2010: the data is in Mega Watt hours.

2007

Jan-07

2,575,729

Feb-07

2,334,759

Mar-07

2,480,148

Apr-07

2,150,440

May-07

2,189,904

Jun-07

2,097,771

Jul-07

2,146,290

Aug-07

2,160,588

Sep-07

2,180,423

Oct-07

2,385,204

Nov-07

2,475,997

Dec-07

2,559,503

2008

Jan-08

2,657,784

Feb-08

2,475,172

Mar-08

2,531,911

Apr-08

2,367,250

May-08

2,232,206

Jun-08

2,104,297

Jul-08

2,189,857

Aug-08

2,172,357

Sep-08

2,213,883

Oct-08

2,423,006

Nov-08

2,474,432

Dec-08

2,573,212

2009

Jan-09

2,614,442

Feb-09

2,316,288

Mar-09

2,380,155

Apr-09

2,145,815

May-09

2,133,573

Jun-09

1,992,126

Jul-09

2,038,974

Aug-09

2,033,392

Sep-09

2,073,643

Oct-09

2,223,931

Nov-09

2,319,991

Dec-09

2,511,656

2010

Jan-10

2,619,371

Feb-10

2,329,531

Mar-10

2,414,704

Apr-10

2,111,541

EirGrid was not in a position to provide the monthly breakdown for 2006 but has advised that the annual consumption of electricity in 2006 was 27,920.4 gW hours (based on 52 weeks) where 1 gW hour is 1,000 Mega Watt hours. EirGrid now publishes monthly electricity statistic reports on its website and this data, which includes details on monthly electricity demand, demand growth, peak demand and installed generation capacity, is readily accessible in respect of the months from July 2009 onwards.

EirGrid also publishes an annual Generation Adequacy Report, which sets out estimates of the demand for electricity in the following 7-year period, the likely production capacity that will be in place to meet this demand, and assesses the consequences in terms of the overall supply/demand balance. In its most recent Generation Adequacy Report for the period 2010 to 2016, EirGrid highlighted that the change in the economic climate since 2008 has been reflected in a reduction in electricity demand. It also noted that this reduction in demand, coupled with the connection of new generation, improved generator availability, and increased interconnection, means that there is adequate capacity to meet demand in accordance with system standards over the next seven years.

Departmental Agencies

John O'Mahony

Question:

378 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the agencies or bodies to which his Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which his Department is responsible in respect of his policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21747/10]

I can inform the Deputy that the State Boards, agencies, regulators or other bodies under the remit of my Department are as follows:

An Post

Bord Gáis Éireann

Bord na Móna

Broadcasting Authority of Ireland

Central Fisheries Board

Commission for Communications Regulation

Commission for Energy Regulation

Digital Hub Development Agency

EirGrid

Electricity Supply Board (ESB)

Foyle, Carlingford and Irish Lights Commission

Irish National Petroleum Corporation

Mining Board

National Oil Reserves Agency

Ordnance Survey Ireland

Radio Telefís Eireann

Regional Fisheries Boards (7)

Sustainable Energy Ireland

Teilifís na Gaeilge

My Department also provides funding to the National Digital Research Centre.

The following table gives details of the Bodies to which funding has been provided, through my Department's Vote, in each of the years 2007 to 2010:

Agency/Body

Subhead (in 2010)

2007 Expenditure

2008 Expenditure

2009 Expenditure

2010 Estimate

€000

€000

€000

€000

Digital Hub Development Agency

B2 — Multimedia Developments

1,724

1,940

1,731

2,360

National Digital Research Centre

B2 — Multimedia Developments

2,500

2,624

3,188

5,194

RTÉ

C1 — Grant to RTÉ for Broadcasting Licence Fees

194,838

201,067

204,255

195,000

C3 — Deontas I Leith Theilifís na Gaeilge

10,268

Prior to April 2007 funding for TG4 was provided to RTÉ. In April 2007 TG4 became an independent statutory entity

TG4

21,629

36,390

36,133

34,050

Broadcasting Commission of Ireland

— Broadcasting Commission of Ireland

3,810

5,000

4,550

BAI replaced the BCI / BCC in Oct 2009 and is now funded through an industry levy

Sustainable Energy Ireland

D1 — SEI Admin & General Expenses; D2 — Sustainable Energy Programmes; D3 — Energy Research Programmes; — Energy Efficiency Awareness Initiatives

54,200

64,855

80,288

126,441

Loughs Agency

F1 — Inland Fisheries

2,694

2,625

2,382

3,052

North West Regional Fishery Board

2,933

3,087

3,188

26,559

Nothern Regional Fishery Board

2,866

3,130

2,877

Agency/Body

Subhead (in 2010)

2007 Expenditure

2008 Expenditure

2009 Expenditure

2010 Estimate

€000

€000

€000

€000

Shannon Regional Fishery Board

3,150

3,139

3,285

Western Regional Fishery Board

4,194

3,966

3,769

Eastern Regional Fishery Board

3,380

3,365

3,112

Central Fishery Board

6,887

9,616

7,395

Southern Regional Fishery Board

2,572

2,507

2,680

South Western Regional Fishery Board

2,511

2,642

2,767

Ordnance Survey Ireland

E6 — OSI

OSI transferred from Dept. Finance in Jan 2008

5,970

5,087

4,985

Totals

320,156

351,923

366,687

397,641

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

379 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the amount of unspent money returned by his Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21776/10]

The total amount of unspent money surrendered by my Department to the Department of Finance since 2007 is €59.801m. The amount surrendered per year, broken down by programme/service, is set out in the tables below.

2007

Item

Allocation

Expenditure

Surplus to be surrendered

€000

€000

€000

Salaries, Wages & Allowances

21,625

23,494

-1,869

Travel & Subsistence

1,918

1,696

222

Incidental Expenses

2,219

1,818

401

Postal & Telecom Services

1,487

1,078

409

Office Machinery & Other Office Supplies

7,963

8,157

-194

Office Premises

1,697

1,636

61

Consultancy Services

2,664

2,095

569

Equipment, Stores & Maintenance

222

190

32

Value for Money & Policy Reviews

202

61

141

Coast Protection & Management

465

465

Foreshore Development

52

52

Marine Tourism

1

1

Marine Institute

19,554

19,554

National Seabed Survey

4,000

6,254

-2,254

Bord Iascaigh Mhara

28,086

25,086

3,000

Fisheries Conservation & Management

611

612

-1

Fish Processing

Aquaculture Development

2,537

2,537

Aquaculture Licences Appeals Board

246

246

Development & Upgrading of Harbours for Fishery Purposes

11,308

10,954

354

Sea Fisheries Protection Authority

5,572

5,572

Inland Fisheries

27,412

31,357

-3,945

Salmon Conservation

10,000

11,858

-1,858

Energy Conservation

54,200

54,200

Gas Services

36

41

-5

Energy RTDI Programmes

960

479

481

Energy Efficiency Initiatives

4,957

4,957

Strategic Energy Infrastructure

1

1

Information & Communications Technology Programme

35,684

37,947

-2,263

Multimedia Developments

7,168

4,356

2,812

RAPID Programme

1,650

901

749

Grant to RTE for Broadcasting Licence Fees

195,013

194,838

175

Payment to an Post for Collection of Broadcasting Licence Fees

12,036

12,221

-185

Broadcasting Commission of Ireland

6,376

3,810

2,566

TG4

31,897

31,897

Broadcasting Fund

10,264

10,255

9

Grants for Digital Terrestrial Television

3,800

4,320

-520

Petroleum Services

287

300

-13

Mining Services

6,763

2,162

4,601

GSI Services

1,008

684

324

Geoscience Initiatives

1,500

1,154

346

Subscriptions to International Organisations

1,600

1,051

549

EU Programmes Clearance of Accounts

2

2

Change Management Fund for Non Commercial Bodies funded by the Department

750

164

586

Other Services

568

568

Gross Total

526,361

520,509

5,852

Appropriations-in-Aid

237,169

237,944

755

Net Total

289,192

282,565

6,627

Deferred to 2008 (under Section 91 of the Finance Act 2004)

-2,047

Surplus to be Surrendered

4,580

2008

Item

Allocation

Expenditure

Surplus to be surrendered

€000

€000

€000

Salaries, Wages & Allowances

17,621

18,335

-714

Travel & Subsistence

1,238

892

346

Incidental Expenses

1,767

1,546

221

Postal & Telecoms Services

1,017

518

499

Office Machinery & Other Office Supplies

7,717

5,834

1,883

Office Premises Expenses

1,637

1,925

-288

Consultancy Services

2,606

2,249

357

Equipment, Stores & Maintenance

227

316

-89

Value for Money & Policy Reviews

204

3

201

Information & Communications Technology Programme

53,634

49,031

4,603

Multimedia Developments

7,223

4,572

2,651

RAPID Programme

1,147

517

630

Information Society & eInclusion

2,934

1,767

1,167

Grant to RTE for Broadcasting Licence Fees

208,940

201,067

7,873

Payment to an Post for Collection of Broadcasting Licence Fees

12,718

12,630

88

Broadcasting Commission of Ireland

6,442

5,000

1,442

TG4

36,580

36,390

190

Broadcasting Fund

10,997

10,478

519

Grants for Digital Terrestrial Television

2,000

1,514

486

Energy Conservation

70,570

62,430

8,140

Gas Services

36

36

Energy RTDDI Programme

13,159

2,642

10,517

Energy Efficiency Awareness Initiatives

2,500

2,500

Strategic Energy Infrastructure

1

1

Petroleum Services

532

631

-99

Mining Services

7,178

4,737

2,441

GSI Services

754

383

371

Geoscience Initiatives

2,900

2,883

17

National Seabed Survey

4,000

3,937

63

Ordnance Survey Ireland

6,000

5,970

30

Inland Fisheries

36,137

34,110

2,027

Salmon Conservation

16,000

12,710

3,290

Subscriptions to International Organisations

986

300

686

Change Management Fund for Non Commercial Bodies funded by the Department

250

250

Other Services

456

456

Gross Total

538,108

487,853

50,255

Appropriations-in-Aid

247,024

237,245

-9,779

Net Total

291,084

250,608

40,476

Deferred to 2009 (under Section 91 of the Finance Act 2004)

-15,500

Surplus to be Surrendered

24,976

2009

Item

Allocation

Expenditure

Surplus to be surrendered

€000

€000

€000

Salaries, Wages & Allowances

18,552

18,011

541

Travel & Subsistence

809

504

305

Incidental Expenses

1,245

1,130

115

Postal & Telecoms Services

720

453

267

Office Machinery & Other Office Supplies

4,655

3,163

1,492

Office Premises Expenses

1,500

1,158

342

Consultancy Services

1,155

739

416

Equipment, Stores & Maintenance

225

188

37

Value for Money & Policy Reviews

42

12

30

Information & Communications Technology Programme

46,049

40,021

6,028

Multimedia Developments

6,731

5,544

1,187

RAPID Programme

1,147

774

373

Information Society & eInclusion

824

812

12

Grant to RTE for Broadcasting Licence Fees

207,640

204,255

3,385

Payment to an Post for Collection of Broadcasting Licence Fees

13,714

12,444

1,270

Broadcasting Commission of Ireland

4,550

4,550

TG4

36,133

36,133

Broadcasting Fund

10,804

11,888

-1,084

Grants for Digital Terrestrial Television

SEI Admin & General Expenses

8,350

8,350

Sustainable Energy Programmes

96,422

59,267

37,155

Energy Research Programmes

8,676

12,224

-3,548

Strategic Energy Infrastructure

1

1

Energy Efficiency Awareness Initiatives

894

890

4

Petroleum Services

975

755

220

Mining Services

6,684

3,676

3,008

GSI Services

438

157

281

Geoscience Initiatives

1,228

1,127

101

National Seabed Survey

3,363

3,525

-162

Ordnance Survey Ireland

5,087

5,087

Inland Fisheries

34,046

31,455

2,591

Salmon Conservation

4,187

4,612

-425

Subscriptions to International Organisations

303

296

7

Change Management Fund for Non Commercial Bodies funded by the Department

1

1

Gas Services

32

32

Other Services

501

501

Gross Total

527,683

473,232

54,451

Appropriations-in-Aid

249,184

240,699

-8,485

Net Total

278,499

232,533

45,966

Deferred to 2010 (under Section 91 of the Finance Act 2004)

-15,721

Surplus to be Surrendered

30,245

Telecommunications Services

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

380 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that as of 1 January 2010 the 116000 number reserved by the EU for an EU wide missing children hotline service has been assigned to service providers in 12 countries and is functioning in 11; if he is concerned that Ireland is not amongst these and if he will take the immediate steps necessary including making the necessary funding available to enable the 116000 hotline to be up and running in Ireland on an island wide basis. [21808/10]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

381 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps required to give effect to the new Article 27a on 116 numbers in Directive 2002/22/EC which requires member states to make every effort to ensure that citizens have access to a service operating a hotline to report cases of missing children and when he intends to stop delaying and deliver on this. [21811/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 380 and 381 together.

The European Commission published a Commission Decision dated the 15th February 2007 entitled "Reserving the national numbering range beginning with "116" for harmonised numbers for harmonised services of social value". Directive 2009/136/EC which amends Directive 2002/22/EC deals with the promotion of specific numbers in the "116" range and the encouragement of services for which such numbers are reserved. The allocation of specific numbers in the 116 number range in Ireland is managed by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), which published (July 2007) and advertised (November 2007) the existence of the number range and invited suitable applicants to apply for the setting up of services.

I am advised by ComReg that Childline commenced a service using the telephone number 116111 in April 2009 and that the number 116123 has been allocated to the Samaritans. It is open to other organisations to apply to ComReg for the allocation of additional numbers from this numbering range. I am informed by ComReg that no organisation has yet applied for the missing children hotline number 116000. More generally, I would expect that cases of missing children would be reported to the Garda Síochána in the normal way.

Energy Conservation

Paul Connaughton

Question:

382 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason a person (details supplied) in County Galway is not entitled to grant aid under the warmer homes scheme for persons who are in receipt of the fuel allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21910/10]

An application under the Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS) was received from the individual in question on 1st February 2010. At that time the service was not available in the area in which the individual lives, however, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) now informs me that the WHS has recently been expanded to cover the entire country and it is hoped to deliver the service to the named individual within the next two months. More generally the Deputy may wish to note that a dedicated Warmer Homes Scheme hot line — 1800 250 204 — has been in operation for some time and all queries, from scheme applicants and public representatives, on delivery dates for individual households and/or funding agreements are dealt with immediately. In addition, the WHS programme manager, Mr. Michael Martin of SEAI, is available to deal with queries on 042 939 1548. The availability of both points of contact ensures that there is no delay in dealing with specific queries related to the delivery of the WHS.

Inland Fisheries

Phil Hogan

Question:

383 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the amount spent by the central and regional fisheries board on the Rivers Barrow, Nore and Suir over the past five years; if he will provide a breakdown of the figures and indicate if there are any counters along the River Barrow and if not, the way the number of salmon in the river is estimated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21960/10]

I have been advised by the Southern Regional Fisheries Board that expenditure incurred for the Rivers Nore, Suir and Barrow during the period 2005-2009 can be found in the following table.

Southern Regional Fisheries Board

Rivers Nore Suir and Barrow Expenditure incurred during the period 2005-2009 (€)

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

€000

€000

€000

€000

€000

Protection

1,014,266

976,187

887,392

801,993

842,007

Environment

236,577

186,739

194,978

153,630

142,424

Development

379,371

422,939

356,011

219,623

297,981

I understand that the Central Fisheries Board has also undertaken works on the three rivers but does not have the figure for its total spend to hand. I have asked the Board to forward this information to you directly. I have been informed by the Southern Regional Fisheries Board that there is no counter on the River Barrow. However, the Board did operate a temporary counter on a tributary of the river for a short period during 2009 as part of an educational project. The performance of all salmon rivers is assessed by the Standing Scientific Committee (SSC) using a standard methodology. Fish counters represent only one of the methods by which salmon stock levels are assessed. In calculating the estimated salmon run, reliance is also placed by the Committee on catch data and surveys by the Boards' staff of spawning beds, fish populations and habitats, as well as juvenile electro-fishing results.

The Committee sets out how the required number of salmon to maintain good stock status in the catchment is calculated in their annual report. The number of fish above this conservation limit is available as a surplus for exploitation. Further details on individual catchments are set out in the Committee's most recent report at www.dcenr.gov.ie. The Committee estimates that the Barrow (including Pollmounty waters) will only reach 40% of its conservation limit in 2010.

Common Fisheries Policy

Enda Kenny

Question:

384 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reforms to the Common Fisheries Policy that he has made in order to pursue Ireland’s interests and in keeping with the renewed programme for Government 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21885/10]

The current review of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) was initiated by the European Commission when it issued a Green Paper in April 2009 and sought responses to the proposals it contained. Minister Killeen, who had responsibility for the Fisheries portfolio at that time, appointed Dr. Noel Cawley to chair a nationwide public consultation process. The result of these extensive consultations contributed in no small way to Ireland's Response to the Green Paper which issued on the 23rd of February. The report in its entirety, and all formal submissions received during the public consultation process, are available on www.fishingnet.ie.

Ireland's response on the CFP reform sets down a number of informed recommendations which we believe must be incorporated into the new Common Fisheries Policy. They take a pragmatic approach, promoting measures that collectively take account of economic, social, environmental and sustainability factors important to the Irish seafood sector. The changes we consider necessary include:

New focus on addressing discarding of fish at sea with a complete ban being introduced for stocks in a depleted state;

The retention of a management system based on national quotas supported by increased flexibility and a rejection of the mandatory privatisation of fish quotas or the introduction of international trading of fish quotas;

Access to coastal waters to be re-examined with a view to an extension of the coastal limit to 20 miles with new management arrangements in place to strengthen coastal communities dependant on inshore coastal fisheries;

New measures to strengthen the market for EU producers and increase quay side prices;

Reinvigoration of European aquaculture with continued structural support and a roadmap that establishes a route for growth in harmony with Community environmental law;

New regional structure to decision-making at EU level, with increasing industry responsibility and the development of a culture of compliance.

Consultation at European level on the review is ongoing, with a variety of meetings being held, including a stakeholders' conference and an informal meeting of Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers to discuss the reform, both of which were held in Spain at the start of May. In addition, I attended a bilateral meeting with the Maria Damanaki, the new EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, in March 2010. This meeting was arranged at my request to discuss Ireland's Response to the Commission's Green Paper.

At this meeting we discussed many areas where we have common ground with the EU Commission. However, I made it quite clear that Ireland does not support the Commission's ideas expressed in the Green Paper which would allow our national fish quotas to be privatised and traded away to large European fishing companies. I stressed that one of Ireland's main objective in the Reform Process will be to protect the national fish quotas as a public resource to be used for the benefit of our family owned fleet and to support our coastal communities. Under the planned EU timetable for the review, a summary of the consultation process will be published in 2010. It will be followed by a legislative proposal to the Council and the European Parliament to be adopted in 2011, with a view to its entering into force in 2012. A working document concerning reform options is being prepared by the Commission and is expected to be presented at the Agriculture and Fisheries Council scheduled for the 28th and 29th June 2010.

Nationally, I intend to continue close collaboration with the Federation of Irish Fishermen and the other stakeholders to put Ireland's case forward during the review, to vigorously defend Ireland's maritime interests, and to convince our colleagues in other Member States and in the Commission to strengthen the current policy in line with Ireland's submission on the reform of the CFP.

Proposed Legislation

Denis Naughten

Question:

385 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he intends to publish the Animal Health and Welfare Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21944/10]

Drafting of the Animal Health and Welfare Bill, which gives effect to commitments in the Programme for Government and the Renewed Programme for Government on issues relating to animal health and welfare is ongoing in my Department. The legislation will amend and consolidate legislation in the area of animal health, particularly to reflect the changed disease status of our animals. Existing legislation will also be updated to ensure that the welfare of all animals, including non-farm animals, is properly protected and that the penalties for offenders are increased significantly. The Bill will provide any necessary statutory basis to give effect to the commitment in the Programme for Government that the responsibility for the welfare of all animals (including non-farm animals) will be consolidated in my Department. I intend to submit the proposed heads of this Bill to the Government at an early date this year.

Grant Payments

John Perry

Question:

386 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if a REP scheme payment will be expedited in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Sligo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21336/10]

The original REPS 4 plan submitted by the person named was found to be incorrect. An adjusted plan submitted on 19 April 2010 was again incorrect, and my officials have been in contact with the applicant's planner with a view to resolving the matter.

Irish Horseracing Industry

Mary Upton

Question:

387 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will establish a special forum to bring together all sectors of the horse, greyhound and gambling industries to address the serious issues in the industry and to attempt to establish reforms within the industry by consensus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21372/10]

Since taking over responsibility for the horse and greyhound racing industries on May 12010, I have had the opportunity to meet many of the stakeholders in these very important industries. I look forward to maintaining that engagement, with a view to working with all the stakeholders in the best interests of these industries. The regulation of gambling is under the remit of my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. Submissions have been made both to that Department and the Department of Finance on the matter of betting. I will be engaging with my Ministerial colleagues in regard to all the issues raised.

Grant Payments

Michael Ring

Question:

388 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of herd owners on an estate (details supplied) who have yet to receive their payments; when he will finish assessing the right to claim of each herd owner as well as the specific share claim associated in order that this matter can be finally resolved in view of the fact that some claimants have not received a payment in four years; and the position regarding the affidavit for this estate. [21374/10]

This is a very complex situation involving fourteen parcels of common land and ninety claimants. The area involved is claimed by individual farmers under various area-based schemes including the Single Payment Scheme, Disadvantaged Areas Scheme and REPS.

There are four applicants (two of which declared the commonage for the first time in 2009 and the other two in 2007), whose claims on the commonage parcels are being processed at present. None of these applicants hold SPS payment entitlements. The legal documentation submitted by these applicants in relation to their legal right to claim the commonage is under examination by my Department together the follow-up legal searches. My Department is also conducting a full review of all of the claimants on the commonage and the affidavits sworn by the claimants. Following completion of this review and the conclusion of the legal searches, my Department will contact with the persons concerned.

Tom Sheahan

Question:

389 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive their REP scheme payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21468/10]

The payment belonging to the person named is at an advanced stage of processing and he will be advised of the outcome shortly.

Agri-Environment Options Scheme

Pat Breen

Question:

390 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, further to Parliamentary Question No. 244 of 12 May 2010, the number of applications received for inclusion in the new agri-environmental options scheme; the length of time expected to process these applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21565/10]

There has been significant interest in the Agri-Environment Options Scheme since it opened for applications on 30 March 2010. The closing date for receipt of applications was Monday 17 May 2010 and at close of business on that day some 4,400 applications had been submitted to my Department's office at Johnstown Castle Estate in Wexford. However, given the short time frame for submitting applications, and in order to facilitate farmers, applications were also accepted in my Department's local offices. These application are currently being forwarded to be processed centrally in Wexford. Current indications are that the total number of applications will be close to 8,000, but the actual figure cannot be ascertained until all applications have been received and recorded in Wexford.

Under EU Regulations, payments can not be made until all applications received have been subjected to a rigorous administrative check, including an area cross-check with the declarations received under the Single Payment Scheme. It is not possible, at this early stage, to anticipate how long this process will take but my objective is to ensure that it is completed and that payments issue as quickly as possible.

Departmental Agencies

John O'Mahony

Question:

391 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the agencies or bodies to which his Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which his Department is responsible in respect of his policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21746/10]

While there are 12 State Bodies/Agencies under the aegis of my Department, it does not provide funding for all of them. The bodies that do not receive funding from my Department are Coillte Teoranta and the Irish National Stud Company which are both commercial bodies and the Veterinary Council of Ireland and National Milk Agency which are funded by means of registration fees or a statutory levy.

The table lists out the remaining State Bodies/Agencies and the amount of funding provided since 2007.

Funding for State Bodies/Agencies under the aegis of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food

Body

2007

2008

2009

2010

Teagasc1

€140.450m

€139.964m

€131.927m

€126.165m

Bord Bia2

€27.705m

€26.851m

€28.221m

€29.116m

— Quality Assurance

€2.950m

€4.400m

€3.619m

€4.300m

— Healthy Eating/Food Dude

€3.326m

€3.778m

€2.000m

€2.000m

— EU school fruit

€0.166m

€0.500m

— Beef Expo

€0.396m

Aquaculture Licensing Appeals Board (ALAB)

€0.256m

€0.410m

€0.656m (including judicial review fees)

€0.360m (Estimate)

Bord Iascaigh Mhara

€31.638m (€25.089m DCMNR, (€6.549m DAFF)

€48.378m

€34.932m

€18.583m (Estimate)

Marine Institute

€28.980m (€22.428m DCMNR €6.552m DAFF)

€31.069m

€27.546m

€24.830m (Estimate)

Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA)

€10.954m (€5.983m DCMNR, €4.971m DAFF)

€13.296m

€10.853m

€11.324m (Estimate)

Bord na gCon3

€14.572m

€15.257m

€13.6256m

€11.853m

Horse Racing Ireland3

€58.539m

€61.0288m

€54.502m

€47.411m

1The figures shown above for Teagasc represent total State Grant in Aid paid provided to Teagasc for pay, non-pay, Superannuation, NDP Training and Capital. In addition to Grant in Aid, Teagasc receives other state funding from research programmes etc.

2The top figure is the funding provided to An Bord Bia through Grant-in-Aid. Also shown are other monies provided by the Department for specific purposes.

3Responsibility for HRI & Bord na gCon rested in the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism from 1/1/2007 to 30/4/2010

Grant Payments

John O'Mahony

Question:

392 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of farmers in County Mayo who have been approved for REPS 4 and are waiting to receive their payments in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21771/10]

There were 2,703 applications for REPS 4 in County Mayo. Of these, 2,081 have been paid in full and the remainder are being processed. The acceptance of REPS 4 applications is governed by EU Regulations which require exhaustive administrative checks and on-the-spot inspections. In a significant number of the applications received, the administrative checks raised issues and queries which required further detailed examination. My Department's staff have been working to resolve these as quickly as possible. Many of these cases required the applicants' planners to amend the farm plans that were submitted originally. The applicants concerned were made aware of the position and the applications are being further processed without delay on receipt of amended plans.

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

393 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the amount of unspent money returned by his Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21775/10]

A substantial proportion of expenditure under the Department's Vote comprises schemes and activities which are subject to external factors such as demand from beneficiaries, market and economic factors, animal disease incidence and the pace at which capital investment and research projects are completed by the beneficiaries of grant aid. Accordingly, savings on the funding provided in the Vote can and do arise due to lower than anticipated drawdown on various demand-led schemes. Conversely, the need for additional spending under particular headings can also arise.

The following are the relevant figures for the years 2007, 2008 and 2009.

Vote

Expenditure

Savings

€m

€m

€m

2007

1,761*

1,601

160

2008

2,144

2,104

**40

2009

2,003

1,937

66

*Reflects transfer of fisheries to Department in October 2007.

**Includes €9m budget adjustment implemented by Government during 2008.

The following are the Vote allocations on which there was an under spend (main items)

2007

€m

Administration

1

Animal Health (disease control) and Welfare

29

Market Support technical costs

11

Compensatory Allowances

3

REPs

49

Early Retirement and Installation Aid schemes

21

On farm investment grant schemes

13

Forestry

6

Fisheries

12

BIM

15

Other

4

Savings were offset by additional expenditure on Bord Bia and food aid.

2008

€m

Administration

8

Research

6

Animal Health (disease control) and Welfare

16

Market Support technical costs

5

Compensatory Allowances

1

REPs

19

Early Retirement and Installation Aid schemes

11

Forestry

5

Fisheries

4

State bodies

9

Savings were offset by additional spending on the Farm Waste Management Scheme and food aid.

2009

€m

Administration

8

Animal Health (disease control) and Welfare

16

Market Support technical costs

3

REPs

28

Early Retirement and Installation Aid schemes

3

Fisheries

4

State bodies

4

Other

3

Savings were offset by additional spending on the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme.

Grant Payments

Pat Breen

Question:

394 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, further to Parliamentary Question No. 636 of 9 February 2010, when a single farm payment will be processed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; the penalties that will be incurred; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21790/10]

An appeal by the person named in relation to over-payments recouped from the applicant and relating to Single Farm Payments made between 2005 to 2009 has been successful and all monies concerned have been refunded.

Denis Naughten

Question:

395 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon will receive their REP scheme payment; the reason for the delay in issuing same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21815/10]

Payment issued to the person named on 19 May 2010.

Enda Kenny

Question:

396 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if headage payments are eligible to be paid in respect of a holding of a land (details supplied) since 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21891/10]

The herd number in question has been registered in the name of the person named since 16 May 2002. The person named submitted applications under the Single Payment Scheme and Disadvantaged Areas Scheme in respect of each of the years 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009 and has been fully paid in respect of each application. The applicant applied for and was allocated a top-up from the National Reserve to his SPS payment entitlements in 2007.

John O'Donoghue

Question:

397 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive the balance of the grant for their slatted unit. [21895/10]

The person concerned is an applicant under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. The first two instalments of grant-aid have been paid by my Department to the applicant and the final instalment will be paid in January 2011.

I have also announced that a special ex-gratia payment not exceeding 3.5 per cent of the value of the deferred amount will be made to farmers whose Farm Waste Management grants have been partially deferred. This payment will be made in January 2011 along with the final instalment.

John O'Donoghue

Question:

398 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive their suckler cow grant for the year 2009. [21896/10]

The person named applied has 11 animals for consideration under the 2009 Suckler Welfare Scheme. It is a condition of this Scheme that for herds of more than 10 cows the calves must be weaned in at least two separate groups with each group being removed at a minimum interval of five days. The person named did not comply with this condition and, therefore, is not eligible for payment, as per the Terms and Conditions governing the Scheme.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

399 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the cow welfare grant will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21904/10]

The person named has 24 animals for consideration under the 2009 Suckler Welfare Scheme. It is a condition of this Scheme that for herds of more than 10 cows the calves must be weaned in at least two separate groups with each group being removed at a minimum interval of five days. Payment has not issued as the person named provided the same weaning date for all the animals. However, the applicant has recently submitted further information to my Department, which confirmed the graduated weaning process that he followed in his herd. As the initial error has been satisfactorily resolved, payment should issue to the applicant in the near future.

Milk Quota

Sean Sherlock

Question:

400 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the milk quota new entrants scheme; if applications are being expedited in view of the fact that the start date for the scheme was 1 April; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21908/10]

The closing date for receipt of applications to the New Entrants Scheme was in fact 9 April 2010. A total of 82 applications was referred to the independent assessment group for adjudication. The group has recently concluded its deliberations and I hope to be in a position to make an announcement shortly.

Grant Payments

Paul Connaughton

Question:

401 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the top-up grant will be paid to sheep farmers; the exact amount of this payment; if it will be limited to flocks of certain sizes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21911/10]

Arrangements are currently at an advanced stage in my Department to allow the balancing payments due under the Upland Sheep Payment to issue to beneficiaries very shortly.

Tom Sheahan

Question:

402 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive their full REPS 4 payment due since August 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21932/10]

The payment belonging to the person named is at an advanced stage of processing and he will be advised of the outcome shortly.

Martin Ferris

Question:

403 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when REP scheme will be awarded to a person (details supplied). [21951/10]

My officials have written to the person named requesting that documentation be submitted. The documentation has not yet been received and my officials have been in contact with the applicant's planner with a view to resolving the matter.

Martin Ferris

Question:

404 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when REP scheme payment will be awarded to a person (details supplied). [21952/10]

Payment to the person named will issue within two weeks.

Rural Environment Protection Scheme

David Stanton

Question:

405 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of applications for REPS 4 on a county basis; the number of applications which were accepted and rejected; the amount of money awarded to date on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22108/10]

The details requested are set out in the tabular statement attached. The acceptance of REPS 4 applications is governed by EU Regulations which require exhaustive administrative checks and on-the-spot inspections. In a significant number of the applications received, the administrative checks raised issues and queries which required further detailed examination. My Department's staff have been working to resolve these as quickly as possible. Many of these cases required the applicants' planners to amend the farm plans that were submitted originally. The applicants concerned were made aware of the position and the applications are being further processed without delay on receipt of amended plans. So far, 24,023 applicants have received full payment for 2009 and work is continuing to process the remainder as quickly as possible.

My officials have also been in contact with the 111 applicants whose plans had been rejected, to inform them of their right to appeal the decision. Alternatively, unless the application had been found to be fundamentally ineligible, applicants were given the opportunity to submit a new REPS 4 plan and application form on or before 17 May 2010. The latter cases will be dealt with as a priority.

REPS 4 applications and payments

County

Applications

Rejected Plans

Paid in full

Awaiting payment

Value of payments (estimated)

Carlow

300

0

274

26

1,150,800

Cavan

1,101

3

852

249

3,578,400

Clare

1,333

0

1,268

65

5,325,600

Cork

3,221

16

2,191

1,030

9,202,200

Donegal

1,898

5

1,736

162

7,291,200

Dublin

51

1

35

16

147,000

Galway

2,757

0

2,225

532

9,345,000

Kerry

1,999

2

1,173

826

4,926,600

Kildare

373

2

329

44

1,381,800

Kilkenny

833

1

752

81

3,158,400

Laois

761

6

705

56

2,961,000

Leitrim

880

32

697

183

2,927,400

Limerick

1,344

0

1,169

175

4,909,800

Longford

681

0

588

93

2,469,600

Louth

218

1

188

30

789,600

Mayo

2,703

17

2,081

622

8,740,200

Meath

561

2

424

137

1,780,800

Monaghan

903

13

765

138

3,213,000

Offaly

706

4

636

70

2,671,200

Roscommon

1,405

1

1,264

141

5,308,800

Sligo

917

0

727

190

3,053,400

Tipperary Nth

854

1

789

65

3,313,800

Tipperary Sth

1,004

0

852

152

3,578,400

Waterford

675

1

579

96

2,431,800

Westmeath

709

3

651

58

2,734,200

Wexford

783

0

705

78

2,961,000

Wicklow

406

0

368

38

1,545,600

Totals

29,376

111

24,023

5,353

100,896,600

David Stanton

Question:

406 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of REPS 3 farmers who have joined REPS 4, on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22109/10]

The majority of farmers who applied for REPS 4 were former participants in either REPS 1, REPS 2 or REPS 3. The following table details county-by-county the number of former participants in REPS 3 who applied for REPS 4.

County

Carlow

132

Cavan

383

Clare

462

Cork

1,165

Donegal

276

Dublin

23

Galway

692

Kerry

478

Kildare

146

Kilkenny

182

Laois

347

Leitrim

543

Limerick

457

Longford

149

Louth

42

Mayo

887

Meath

147

Monaghan

291

Offaly

258

Roscommon

219

Sligo

237

Tipperary Nth

315

Tipperary Sth

396

Waterford

443

Westmeath

348

Wexford

217

Wicklow

149

Totals

9,384

The new Agri-Environment Options Scheme was open to all farmers but I expect that many of those who were formerly in REPS 3 have submitted applications for the new scheme. While figures are not yet available as to the number of ex-REPS 3 participants in the new Scheme, the level of interest shown was very high and I expect many will have taken the opportunity to apply in order to continue farming within an agri-environmental framework.

Departmental Research

David Stanton

Question:

407 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if any research has been carried out by his Department or bodies under his aegis into the age profile of farmers; the findings of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22110/10]

The Farm Structure Survey (Central Statistics Office 2007) showed that 51 percent of all farmers were aged 55 or more, while 26 percent were aged 45 or less. Specialist tillage farmers and dairy farmers tended to have a younger age profile with 46 and 39 percent respectively over the age of 55. As part of the 2020 Strategy we are currently developing, my Department has commissioned the Rural Economy Research Centre of Teagasc to develop estimates of future farm numbers in 2020. This research, which is still ongoing, includes an examination of the demographic profile of farmers.

Crop Losses

David Stanton

Question:

408 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of applications received by his Department for the once-off aid for damaged fodder and the aid for frost damaged crops respectively, on a county basis; the number of applications received, processed, awarded and rejected and amounts awarded to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22111/10]

A total of 256 applications under the Aid Scheme for Fodder Damaged by Floods were confirmed as eligible for aid following inspection. These payments were valued at €528,718 in total; the county breakdown is as follows:

County

No. Cases

Monetary Amount

Clare

16

30,969.25

Cork

3

12,985.00

Galway

107

243,978.08

Kerry

1

1,750.00

Kilkenny

1

2,100.00

Leitrim

11

16,677.75

Longford

7

17,227.00

Louth

1

875.00

Mayo

21

18,060.00

Offaly

8

12,973.00

Roscommon

58

120,269.00

Sligo

2

1,400.00

Tipperary

1

1,575.00

Waterford

1

3,183.92

Westmeath

18

44,695.97

Totals

256

528,718.97

In respect of the Aid Scheme for Crops Damaged by Frost, a total of 361 applications were received, of which 60 have, to date, been found ineligible. Eligibility for assistance is determined by an analysis on a case-by-case basis of the information provided by the grower. The objective of the verification process is to establish not only the losses but also the impact of such losses on the grower's overall enterprise. Eligible growers are required to demonstrate that the potatoes and vegetables were damaged by frost and the extent of that damage. This assessment is ongoing and as soon as it is concluded payments will commence to issue to all applicants confirmed eligible. The county breakdown of applications is as follows:

County

Cases

Number of Rejections

Carlow

9

1

Clare

1

Cork

47

12

Donegal

44

1

Dublin

55

13

Galway

12

1

Kerry

11

6

Kildare

9

1

Kilkenny

15

1

Laois

8

3

Limerick

3

1

Longford

1

Louth

25

8

Mayo

1

Meath

44

2

Monaghan

1

1

Offaly

9

Roscommon

4

Sligo

3

1

Tipperary

16

Waterford

7

Westmeath

3

1

Wexford

29

5

Wicklow

4

2

Higher Education Grants

Brendan Howlin

Question:

409 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills further to the withdrawal of assistance towards college fees from the Millennium Partnership Fund from part-time students, if she accepts that there may be no return on the funding already provided if such students have to abandon their education for want of ongoing financial support; her plans to ensure that such students receive the supports they need to continue their education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21349/10]

The Deputy will be aware that the need for budgetary adjustment has made it necessary to discontinue the Millennium Partnership Fund from the 2010/11 academic year. The fund was disbursed by local Partnership Companies, mostly in the form of small grants to individual students to cover costs of items such as books and travel. Most students in receipt of support from the fund will continue to be supported under the means-tested student maintenance grant schemes and many will benefit from the significantly higher special rate of grant. In addition, third level students in difficult financial circumstances will continue to have access to the Student Assistance Fund. Part-time courses did not qualify for support under the Millennium Partnership Fund.

Redundancy Payments

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

410 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when the full redundancy payments, as recommended by a rights commissioner, will be awarded to persons (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21390/10]

In line with the requirements of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation and Department of Finance, FÁS discontinued funding for the Carrick-on-Suir Jobs Club on 21st November 2008 because it was unable to achieve the nationally agreed targets set up for these programmes. The two staff members were consequently entitled to a redundancy payment. The amount for both staff members was calculated and available to them. I understand that one staff member has accepted the redundancy payment. In regard to the other staff member FÁS has advised that the payment remains available should he decide to accept same.

EU Funding

Joe Costello

Question:

411 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when the 120 former workers of a company (details supplied) will expect to be able to benefit from the EU Globalisation Adjustment Fund; the amount of funding that is available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21404/10]

My Department submitted an application to the European Commission in October 2009 for co-financing support from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) towards the cost of a personalised package of retraining, upskilling, entrepreneurial supports and educational opportunities for workers made redundant at the S R Technics facility in North County Dublin. Earlier this year, the European Commission sought additional clarifications in relation to the EGF application. My Department has provided all additional information sought to date. The total value of the EGF programme of personalized supports for SR Technics workers is estimated at €11.5m of which the maximum 65% EGF support of €7.4m is being sought by the Irish authorities. The EGF application is currently being considered by the European Commission.

The EGF application process from initiation to final decision is a lengthy procedure involving not just the European Commission but also the Council of Ministers and the European Parliament. In the case of the EGF application in relation to workers made redundant at the DELL plant in Co. Limerick, the full approval process took some six months while receipt of EU monies took a further three months. It is also important to stress that there is no guarantee of success of any EGF application. In the interim, state agencies such as FAS, Enterprise Ireland and the City and County Enterprise Boards have made, and continue to make, the full range of their employment, training, guidance and advisory services available to all workers made redundant at S R Technics. A full range of education programmes provided by the VEC and third level sector is also available.

Departmental Programmes

Olwyn Enright

Question:

412 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills her response to a request from a local authority (details supplied) seeking an easing of restrictions which are preventing the introduction of work placement and training programmes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21454/10]

Placements under the Work Placement Programme are possible in the wider public service, subject to the agreement of the relevant parent Government Department. The placement of individuals under this scheme is not covered by the moratorium on recruitment in the public service. However, it is a condition of the Programme that any such placements should not displace an existing member of staff or be used to fill a vacant post. Subject to the above, FÁS would welcome quality Work Placement Programme opportunities from the South Dublin administrative area.

FÁS Training Programmes

David Stanton

Question:

413 Deputy David Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, further to Parliamentary Question No. 61 of 9 March 2010, the number of redundant apprentices who have completed phases one to four of their apprenticeship who have been given placements on the PP5 programme developed by FÁS and the institutes of technology; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21716/10]

David Stanton

Question:

414 Deputy David Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, further to Parliamentary Question No. 61 of 9 March 2010, the number of redundant apprentices who are at phases five to seven of their apprenticeship who have been given on-the-job training with the ESB Networks to date; if all further placements have now been allocated; the number who have completed this programme to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21717/10]

David Stanton

Question:

415 Deputy David Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, further to Parliamentary Question No. 61 of 9 March 2010, the number of redundant apprentices at the final phase of their apprenticeship who have completed FÁS phase seven equivalent assessments in their trade; the number awaiting these assessments by FÁS; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21718/10]

David Stanton

Question:

416 Deputy David Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, further to Parliamentary Question No. 61 of 9 March 2010, the number of redundant apprentices who are being supported by Leargas EU lifelong learning funding and have been placed with overseas employers to complete their phase seven on-the-job training with assessment apprenticeships who have been given on-the-job training with the ESB Networks to date; if all further placements have now been allocated; the number who have completed this programme to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21719/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 413 to 416, inclusive, together.

To date a total of 236 (104 Phase 5 and 132 Phase 7) redundant apprentices have been provided with placements with ESB Networks. Currently 99 (53 Phase 5 and 46 Phase 7) redundant apprentices are in training with ESB Networks. A further 65 Phase 7 redundant apprentices will commence in July 2010 and this will complete the placement of 400 redundant apprentices with ESB.

FÁS also developed Phase 7-equivalent assessments for redundant apprentices at the final phase of their apprenticeship in the trades of Carpentry & Joinery, Electrical, Plumbing, Brick & Stone-laying and Plastering. To date, 39 redundant apprentices have completed Phase 7 assessments and 30 are currently undertaking Phase 7 assessments. In addition, FÁS is inviting a further 351 apprentices to undertake Phase 7 assessments.

Under the EU Leonardo da Vinci III Lifelong Learning Programme, Leargas in collaboration with FAS, has supported 45 apprentices to date to complete their final on-the-job work placement in companies abroad. A total of 36 redundant apprentices are scheduled for on-the-job work placements by the end of 2010 and a further 15 during the first half of 2011. Information on redundant apprentices placed on the PP5 programme is not currently available and will be provided to the Deputy shortly.

Higher Education Grants

Richard Bruton

Question:

417 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if there is any financial support that is be available for a young Irish graduate (details supplied) to participate in a Masters in International Affairs which is very competitively sought throughout the world. [21765/10]

The Department of Education and Skills does not provide funding to support participation in programmes of this nature.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme

Michael McGrath

Question:

418 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the measures that will be taken to protect the privacy of persons who have submitted papers to the Residential Institutions Redress Board and to ensure that such papers are not released. [21948/10]

Section 28 of the Residential Institutions Redress Act, 2002 provides that both the Board and the Review Committee shall determine the disposal of the documents concerning applications made to them prior to the making of a Dissolution Order by the Minister, pursuant to section 3(3) of the Act. Any such Order requires a positive motion of each House of the Oireachtas.

Departmental Reports

Joe McHugh

Question:

419 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when the third level review will be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22285/10]

Joan Burton

Question:

430 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when she expects to receive the report of the HUNT committee on higher education. [21460/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 419 and 430 together.

A High Level Group is currently developing a new national strategy for higher education. That Group is examining how well Ireland's higher education system is performing, how it ranks internationally, how well existing resources are being used and how the system should be configured to best meet the many challenges it faces over the next decade having regard to the key role it has to play in contributing to Ireland's economic recovery.

A round of consultation was completed in summer 2009, under which an open call for written submissions elicited a significant and valuable response. In addition, a series of discussion forums with academics, students, enterprise as well as bilateral meetings with other stakeholders, including the institutions, have been held. The outcomes of these consultations and other ongoing discussions are feeding into the current deliberations of the Strategy Group who are expected to complete their report before the Summer.

State Examinations

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

420 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when a decision will be made in regard to an application for the special accommodation scheme in respect of a person (details supplied) who will be sitting their leaving certificate examination in 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21324/10]

The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations including organising the holding of examinations and determining procedures in places where examinations are conducted including the supervision of examinations. I can inform the Deputy that the Commission operates a scheme of Reasonable Accommodations in the Certificate examinations. Applications for such accommodations are submitted by schools on behalf of their students. In view of this I have forwarded your query to the State Examinations Commission for direct reply to you.

Child Protection

Brian Hayes

Question:

421 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will give assurance that in every school where her Department undertakes a whole school evaluation that her inspectors will examine all files relating to the implementation of child protection policy, including those allegations or concerns reported to the Health Service Executive by the designated liaison person and ensure through in-depth inspection, checks and discussions with staff and the board of management that implementation shows compliance with written policy and Child Protection Guidelines and Procedures 2001 and that the findings are recorded in the whole school evaluation report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21332/10]

The primary statutory responsibility for child protection lies with the Health Service Executive. The role of my Department is to provide guidance and support to schools in implementing child protection policy and to refer any allegations the Department receives to the appropriate authorities for investigation.

My Department has issued child protection guidelines and procedures to all schools. The guidelines are based on Children First — the Department of Health & Children's national guidelines for the protection and welfare of children. The Children First guidelines make very clear the reporting and investigation mechanisms to be followed in cases of suspected child abuse wherever they occur, and the lead role of the HSE. The guidelines for schools require each board of management to designate a senior member of staff, normally the principal, as the Designated Liaison Person (DLP) for the school. The DLP acts as a liaison person with the health authorities and other agencies on child protection issues and as a resource person to any staff member who has concerns in this regard.

As the Deputy will be aware, responsibility for ensuring that child protection requirements are complied with rests with the school board, the principal and the staff of each school. The Inspectorate of my Department undertakes whole-school evaluations in line with its quality assurance remit set out in Section 13 of the Education Act 1998. The WSE process involves evaluating schools under the areas of management, planning, curriculum provision, teaching and learning and student support.

The procedures in these evaluations include a specific review of school policies in the area of child protection. This review involves checking that each school has formally adopted the child protection guidelines as recommended in Children First and in the child protection guidelines of the Department of Education and Science. Confirmation is sought from the school authorities that the child protection procedures have been brought to the attention of management, school staff and parents and that a copy of the procedures has been provided to all staff (including all new staff). The procedures also involve checking that a Designated Liaison Person (DLP) has been nominated by the school. Where necessary, inspectors examine the minutes of board meetings, the recorded details of the adoption of the school's child protection policy and official school documentation naming the Designated Liaison Person (DLP).

Inspectors may also follow up on any issues with members of school management and staff. The relevant findings are included in the WSE inspection report which is provided to the school's board of management and published on the Department's website. In addition, my Department's Schools Division may also follow-up with schools, where appropriate. The investigation of cases of concern reported to the Health Service Executive by a Designated Liaison Person is a matter for the Health Service Executive (HSE), within its statutory remit, as distinct from the statutory remit of the Inspectorate under the Education Act, 1998 in relation to inspections. Accordingly the Inspectorate does not examine the details of individual files or cases.

The Deputy will be aware that, in anticipation of the review and recent updating of Children First, my Department wrote to all the education partners last Autumn inviting submissions from them on potential changes that might be desirable to the Department's existing child protection guidelines to schools. The education partners were also invited to participate in a working party to review the guidelines and the working party commenced its work before Christmas. A review of oversight arrangements in relation to cases that rise in schools is an element of that work.

Capitation Grants

Denis Naughten

Question:

422 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills her plans to address the discrepancy in the level of funding provided to voluntary second level schools and those in the community and comprehensive sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21335/10]

The funding arrangements made by my Department for second-level schools reflect the sectoral division of our second-level system. At the core of all arrangements is reliance upon capitation as the principal determinant of funding. My Department provides funding to secondary schools by way of per capita grants, which affords schools considerable flexibility in the use of these resources to cater for the needs of their pupils.

There have been significant improvements in recent years in the level of funding for voluntary secondary schools. With effect from January 2009, the standard per capita grant was increased by €14 per pupil and now amounts to €345 per pupil. In addition, voluntary secondary schools have benefited by the increase of €8 per pupil in 2009 in the support services grant bringing that grant to €212 per pupil.

The cumulative increase of €22 per pupil in a voluntary secondary school brings the aggregate grant to €557 per pupil. These grants are in addition to the per capita funding of up to €40,000 per school that is also provided by my Department to secondary schools towards secretarial and caretaking services. For example, in the case of a secondary school with 500 pupils, this brings annual grants towards general expenses and support services to over €318,500. The corresponding figure in 2000 was approximately €147,300. Budget allocations for schools in the Community and Comprehensive school sector, along with those in the VEC sector, are increased on a pro rata basis in line with increases in the per capita grant paid to voluntary secondary schools. All schools are eligible for recurrent per capita grants towards special classes and curricular support grants.

My Department has provided an estimated €21million to voluntary secondary schools in equalisation funding to date. These significant increases in the funding of post-primary schools are a clear demonstration of the Government's commitment to prioritise available resources to address the needs of schools. I will consider how best to complete the process of equalisation of funding at second level having regard to available resources.

Schools Amalgamation

Charles Flanagan

Question:

423 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been drawn to the concern surrounding the proposed amalgamation of two schools (details supplied) in County Laois; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21345/10]

I can confirm to the Deputy that my Department has received an application for large scale capital funding to provide accommodation to cater for the amalgamation of the two primary schools in the town to which he refers. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a band 1.4 rating. A technical inspection of the existing buildings found that neither would be suitable to act as a host for the new school. The report recommended a greenfield site solution.

A preferred site of 2 acres adjacent to the school was identified which, along with one of the existing school sites, could accommodate the amalgamated school. In December 2009, representatives of the school authority undertook to consider the acquisition of this site. My Department has not yet heard from the school authority regarding its consideration of this matter.

When the site is acquired, the progression of this project, as with all large scale building projects, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of the Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

Departmental Expenditure

Phil Hogan

Question:

424 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the meetings that are being held in respect of funding of Church of Ireland fee paying secondary schools; if she will comment on the outcome with particular reference to a college (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21362/10]

Officials from my Department have held discussions with a number of representatives from the Church of Ireland, and wider Protestant community, concerning issues relating to their fee-charging schools. These discussions are continuing. My officials are willing to meet with representatives of the college to which the Deputy refers, if requested.

I wish to assure the Deputy that I am committed to supporting Protestant education, while at the same time ensuring that funding arrangements for schools under Protestant management are in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. I am committed to continuing this engagement with members of the Protestant community, as I believe that these issues are best resolved collaboratively.

Physical Education Facilities

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

425 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the grants available which could provide funding for the provision of sports infrastructure in schools; where a school can apply for this funding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21365/10]

My Department is committed to the provision, maintenance and modernisation of physical education and physical activity facilities in our schools for our children and young people. In a new school building or refurbishment/extension, PE facilities are included as an intrinsic part of the design. Curricula are in place for PE in primary schools and at Junior Cert level. Primary schools received €2000 each in PE equipment grants in 2006, at a total cost of €6.5 million. A similar grant of €4,000 per school, at an overall cost of around €3 million, issued to post-primary schools in 2007.

It is also open to primary schools to use their annual minor works grant to purchase items of furniture and/or equipment. Individual primary schools received a grant in the sum of €5,500 plus €18.50 per pupil for the current school year. Schools may apply for major capital funding for sports infrastructure such as PE Halls by completing and submitting the appropriate forms on my Department's website. In addition, schools may also apply to repair or refurbish existing infrastructure under the Summer Works Scheme, which is operated by my Department. In addition, schools may apply for funding for sports infrastructure from the Department of Culture, Tourism and Sport under the Sports Capital Programme.

Higher Education Grants

Brian O'Shea

Question:

426 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the assistance she will give to persons (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21376/10]

The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the relevant assessing authority, i.e. the applicant's local authority or VEC. An applicant may appeal the decision to the relevant local authority or VEC. Where the assessing authority decides to reject the appeal, the applicant may appeal this decision to my Department by submitting an appeal form outlining clearly the grounds for the appeal. No appeal has been received by my Department to date from the candidate referred to by the Deputy.

Schools Building Projects

Michael McGrath

Question:

427 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the development of further phases of a primary school (details supplied) in County Cork. [21382/10]

The school to which the Deputy refers made an application for a new school building in May 2005. The Department delivered an 8 classroom building in 2009 as the first phase of the project to meet the school needs. Forward Planning Section of the Department is in the process of identifying the areas where significant additional accommodation will be required at primary and post-primary level for future years and the area referred to by the Deputy will be included in this process.

Factors under consideration include population growth, demographic trends, current and projected enrolments, recent and planned housing developments and capacity of existing schools to meet demand for places. Having considered these factors, decisions will be taken on the means by which emerging needs will be met within the area. Any further development at the school in question will be considered in that context. The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

Michael McGrath

Question:

428 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the refurbishment work and a new building for a school (details supplied) in County Cork. [21383/10]

The project to which the Deputy refers is at an early stage of architectural planning. A stage 1 submission from the design team was received earlier this month and is currently being considered by my Department. A meeting has been arranged for early next month to discuss the stage submission with the school and its design team. The progression of this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the further progression of the project at this time.

Dan Neville

Question:

429 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the provision of a new second level school at Doon, County Limerick. [21391/10]

The new post primary school at Doon, County Limerick, is one of eight schools which were approved for inclusion in the 3rd Bundle of schools to be procured via Public Private Partnership. This bundle is in the pre procurement stage. Detailed output specifications and Public Sector Benchmark (PSB) are being finalised and outline planning permission has been received in respect of the eight schools. Following completion of the pre procurement process, the Bundle will be ready for handover to the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA) for procurement. The indicative timeframe for the delivery of a PPP school currently stands at approximately 4 years from the date the Bundle is announced.

Question No. 430 answered with Question No. 419.

Higher Education Grants

Michael Ring

Question:

431 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved a third level grant on appeal. [21461/10]

The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the relevant assessing authority, i.e. the applicant's local authority or VEC. An applicant may appeal the decision to the relevant local authority or VEC. Where the assessing authority decides to reject the appeal, the applicant may appeal this decision to my Department by submitting an appeal form outlining clearly the grounds for the appeal. No appeal has been received by my Department to date from the candidate referred to by the Deputy.

Summer Works Scheme

Enda Kenny

Question:

432 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application under the summer works scheme for 2010 by a school (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21478/10]

I can confirm that my Department has received an appeal from the school to which the Deputy refers in respect of their Summer Works Scheme application. The appeal is currently under consideration and a decision will issue in due course to the school authority.

Third Level Fees

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

433 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if a student, who is allowed sit for examinations by their university, will be prevented from receiving their results or graduating, due to non-payment of fees; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21482/10]

The position is that under the terms of my Department's free fees schemes the Exchequer meets the cost of tuition fees in respect of eligible students pursuing approved courses of study in an approved third level institution. Where students do not meet the eligibility criteria of the free fees schemes such students must pay the appropriate tuition fee as determined by the institution. As the institutions are autonomous bodies, my Department does not have any function in their day to day operational affairs including the issuing of examination results and graduation of students. I therefore have no role in the matter raised by the Deputy.

School Staffing

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

434 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will award a school (details supplied) in County Dublin increased concessionary hours in view of the fact that the amount previously awarded is insufficient; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the amount previously awarded will not allow the school to provide classes in art, French and physical education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21485/10]

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

442 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will confirm receipt of an appeal for concessionary hours from a school (details supplied); when a decision will be made on this appeal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21567/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 434 and 442 together.

Teacher allocations to all second-level schools are approved annually by my Department in accordance with established rules based on recognised pupil enrolment. In accordance with these rules each school is required to organise its subject options within the limit of its approved teacher allocation. The deployment of teaching staff, the range of subjects offered and ultimately the quality of teaching and learning are in the first instance a matter for the Board of Management of the school.

In accordance with existing arrangements, where a school management authority is unable to meet its curricular commitments within its approved allocation, my Department considers applications for additional short term support i.e. curricular concessions. This concession is available as a short term support to enable essential curricular provision to continue. The allocation processes also include appellate mechanisms under which schools can appeal against their allocation of teachers. The school in question has availed of this appeals mechanism and will be notified of the outcome shortly. The Appeals Board operates independently of my Department.

Tax Code

Terence Flanagan

Question:

435 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 13; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21523/10]

I understand that the income levy certificates have issued on a phased basis over the last week to approximately 100,000 teaching and non-teaching staff both serving and retired who are paid through my Department's centralised payroll system.

School Accommodation

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

436 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will reply to a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21535/10]

The school to which the Deputy refers to is currently in temporary accommodation on a split campus basis. The accommodation provided by the VEC, which was funded by the Department includes general classrooms, science laboratories and preparation area, home economics, arts and craft room and construction studies area and ancillary accommodation. At the commencement of this school year in September 2009, the school enrolment was 176 pupils; projected enrolment for the coming school year is 310 pupils.

The Department purchased approximately 20 acres of lands in Laytown for an educational campus, consisting of a primary and a post-primary school. My Department have already indicated to Meath VEC its intention to lease the relevant portion of the land holding to the VEC in respect of the post primary school, Coláiste na hInse. Provision of the permanent post-primary school is subject to receipt of the necessary statutory approvals and the process is currently at tender stage (on a design and build basis). Since the project is at tender stage at present, it is not possible to give costs due to commercial sensitivities. When the contract is awarded, the planning application will be lodged shortly thereafter.

Higher Education Grants

Brian Hayes

Question:

437 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if students participating in the access programme are automatically entitled to a maintenance grant; the number of students that are currently participating in the access programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21536/10]

Access courses are generally organised by individual institutions and are not approved courses under the terms and conditions of the student grant schemes. The Higher Education Authority recently estimated the number of students currently on full-time access courses at some 369.

Special Educational Needs

Joan Burton

Question:

438 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if there is a specific document setting out the specifications for the internal fit out for a post-primary special needs unit for students with autistic spectrum disorder; if there is a specific document setting out the specifications for the internal fit out for the multisensory room in the SNU; the procedure for accessing a grant for a multisensory room; if there is a specific document setting out the specifications for the external fit out for the play area for this SNU. [21552/10]

I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department does not fund the provision of play equipment for children. Furthermore, due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the additional 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.

Departmental Programmes

Pat Breen

Question:

439 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of applications in County Clare that have been received under the work placement programme; the number that have been approved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21560/10]

To date 37 individuals have applied for vacancies advertised under the Work Placement Programme in County Clare, 36 have been approved and out of this 12 have been placed.

FÁS Training Programmes

Pat Breen

Question:

440 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of persons in County Clare who have received an offer of training from FÁS each month in 2009 and to date in 2010 under the national employment action plan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21561/10]

I am advised by FÁS that 1,081 National Employment Action Plan clients in County Clare received an offer of training during 2009. To date in 2010, 551 National Employment Action Plan clients in County Clare have received an offer of training. A breakdown per month is contained in the attached table.

Analysis of Offers by Calendar Month — 2009/2010

Date

No.

Jan/2009

41

Feb/2009

52

Mar/2009

121

Apr/2009

41

May/2009

126

June/2009

145

July/2009

47

Aug/2009

61

Sept/2009

175

Oct/2009

132

Nov/2009

105

Dec/2009

35

Jan/2010

98

Feb/2010

139

Mar/2010

133

Apr/2010

91

May/2010

90

1,632

Special Educational Needs

Pat Breen

Question:

441 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of special needs assistants employed in primary, special and post-primary schools in County Clare in each of the past five years to 2009; the number employed in primary, special and post-primary schools in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21562/10]

The information requested by the Deputy on the number of special needs assistants employed in schools in County Clare is not readily available in the requested format. As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENO) for allocating resource teachers and special needs assistants to schools to support children with special educational needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support.

The allocation for any school and any adjustments to that allocation depends on a number of factors such as the number of pupils with care/medical needs leaving, the number of new pupils, the changing needs of the pupils and any surplus identified. Furthermore, schools can make applications at any time with the result that the individual situation of any school can change and allocations are not static. The Deputy may wish to liaise directly with the NCSE in the context of his enquiry. I want to take this opportunity to emphasise that children with special educational needs will continue to receive an education appropriate to their needs. The NCSE will continue to support schools, parents, children and teachers and resources will continue to be allocated to schools to meet children's needs in line with my Department's policy.

Question No. 442 answered with Question No. 434.

Schools Building Programme

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

443 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding plans for the building of a new school (details supplied) on a given site; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21713/10]

It is my Department's intention to provide a new building for the school to which the Deputy refers on a site which is being made available by the VEC. The progression of a building project for the school, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

Departmental Agencies

John O'Mahony

Question:

444 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the agencies or bodies to which her Department provides funding or in respect of which it is administratively responsible; the bodies and agencies for which her Department is responsible in respect of her policy; the amount of funding provided in each of the years 2007 to 2010 in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21750/10]

The information is currently being complied and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Teaching Qualifications

Brian Hayes

Question:

445 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the amount that has been spent specifically on professional development for teachers in the areas of mathematics and science each year for the past five years; the number of teachers that have benefitted from such training each year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21768/10]

My Department has provided considerable support in the areas of Maths and Science over the last five years. Since 2006, almost €11m has been spent by support services in these subject areas. This has allowed teachers to access support in relation to Maths, Science, Project Maths, and Technology.

The annual teacher attendance numbers and the costs are broken down as follows.

Year

Maths

Maths

Science

Science

€m

Teacher Numbers

€m

Teacher Numbers

2006

0.281

3,567

1.182

4,262

2007

0.553

4,663

2.168

37,392

2008

0.778

4,442

2.058

5,868

2009

0.938

9480

1.703

4,084

2010 (to date)

0.469

6,385

0.762

2,608

TOTALS

3.019

28,537

7.873

54,214

School Accommodation

Brian Hayes

Question:

446 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, further Parliamentary Question No. 530 of 18 May 2010, the prefab contracts that have been bought out by her Department to date in tabular form; the amount spent on each contract; the number of contracts, other than those already paid for, that will be bought out in the coming year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21769/10]

Details of schools where rented prefabs have been purchased including information on the number of prefabs purchased in each case is attached for the Deputy's information. As negotiations are on-going on the buy-out of other contracts the individual amounts spent are not being provided because this information is commercially sensitive.

County

Roll No.

School

No of Prefab Units

2009

Galway

08512U

SN Iomair Killimor

1

Galway

08512U

SN Iomair Killimor

2

Dublin

20015B

GS Bhaile Munna

7

Dublin

19865S

Archbishop Ryan JNS

1

Cork

17609N

Scoil Bhride Rathcormac

7

17609N

Scoil Bhride Rathcormac

1

Kerry

17646T

O’Brennan NS Tralee

2

Cork

18829J

Summercove NS Kinsale

2

18829J

Summercove NS Kinsale

3

Cork

19993E

GS an Ghoirt Alainn

16

Longford

20083S

GS Longford

14

Tipperary

18135W

Scoil Angela

1

Dublin

20056P

Gaelscoil Phadraig

1

Dublin

20056P

Gaelscoil Phadraig

5

Dublin

17914S

St Oliver Plunkett Malahide

13

Wicklow

20080M

GS An Inbhir Mhoir

6

Meath

19671F

St Pauls NS Navan

7

2010

Donegal

20096E

GS na gCeithre Maistri

6

Dublin

17944E

St Mary’s School for Deaf

10

Donegal

16672P

St Patrick’s NS

10

Galway

12706J

Scoil Sailearna

2

Departmental Expenditure

John O'Mahony

Question:

447 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the amount of unspent money returned by her Department to the Department of Finance each year since 2007; the departmental budget for each year since 2007; the projects for which this money was originally earmarked in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21779/10]

At the end of each year this Department prepares a set of Annual Accounts known as the Appropriation Accounts, comparing the sums voted by Dáil Éireann under the Appropriation Act for that year (including the amount that could be used as appropriations-in-aid of expenditure) with the actual expenditure outturn for each subhead in Vote 26: Education & Science (Education & Skills with effect from 1 May 2010). In accordance with current statutory requirements these accounts are prepared on a "Cash" rather than an "Accruals" basis, meaning that any unspent monies on the Vote at 31 December must be surrendered to the Exchequer.

This Department monitors expenditure trends throughout the year. However, due to varying rates of progress on different schemes/projects on the Department's Vote, actual expenditure can differ from that originally estimated at the beginning of the year. In order to deal with this eventuality, and with the sanction of the Department of Finance, a process known as "Virement" is used to allow for savings on one or more subheads to be used to meet excesses on other subheads. In relation to 2007 and 2008, the information requested by the Deputy is contained in the Appropriation Accounts for those years. The 2009 Appropriation Accounts are currently being audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General and will not be available until later in the year.

The tables contain the following: Summary Table of the 2007 and 2008 Appropriation Accounts along with the provisional Accounts for 2009; and Extracts from the 2007 and 2008 Appropriation Accounts containing the information sought by the Deputy.

Estimate

Outturn

Difference

% Surplus over Estimate

2007

Gross

8,713,034

8,704,590

8,444

AinA

227,703

227,363

-340

Net

8,485,331

8,477,227

8,104

SURPLUS

8,104

0.1%

2008

Gross

9,318,795

9,295,040

23,755

AinA

249,843

265,364

15,521

Net

9,068,952

9,029,676

39,276

SURPLUS

39,276

0.4%

*2009

Gross

9,491,702

9,355,736

135,966

AinA

570,353

579,521

9,168

Net

8,921,349

8,776,215

145,134

Capital Carryover

-79,000

SURPLUS (Provisional)

66,134

0.7%

*2009 Figures are subject to audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General.

OFFICE OF THE MINISTER FOR EDUCATION AND SCIENCE

"Account of the sum expended, in the year ended 31 December 2007, compared with the sum granted and of the sum which may be applied as appropriations-in-aid in addition thereto for the salaries and expenses of the Office of the Minister for Education and Science, for certain services administered by that Office, and for payment of certain grants and grants-in-aid."

Service

Estimate Provision

Outturn

Difference

€000

€000

€000

€000

Administration

A.1.

Salaries, Wages And Allowances

66,381

60,507

(5,874)

A.2.

Travel And Subsistence

3,205

2,866

(339)

A.3.

Incidental Expenses

2,612

1,981

(631)

A.4.

Postal And Telecommunications Services

3,740

2,927

(813)

A.5

Office Machinery And Other Office Supplies And Related Services

10,551

8,370

(2,181)

A.6.

Office Premises Expenses

4,340

1,747

(2,593)

A.7.

Consultancy Services

650

863

213

A.8.

Regional Office Service

1,800

377

(1,423)

A.9.

Value For Money And Policy Review

Original

400

Supplementary

800

1,200

1,144

(56)

Other Services

B.1.

Grant-In-Aid Fund For General Expenses Of Adult Education Organisations (Part Funded By National Lottery)

929

929

B.2.

Transport Services

165,000

172,106

7,106

B.3.

International Activities

1,306

1,216

(90)

B.4.

Unesco Contribution And International Education Exchanges

2,272

2,296

24

B.5.

Research And Development Activities

9,346

8,686

(660)

B.6.

In Career Development

29,646

29,304

(342)

B.7.

Expenses Of National Council For Curriculum And Assessment

4,548

3,848

(700)

B.8

Grant-In-Aid Fund For General Expenses Of Youth Organisations And Other Expenditure In Relation To Youth Activities

12,270

12,270

B.9.

Grant-In-Aid Fund For General Expenses Of Youth Organisations And Other Expenditure In Relation To Youth Activities (Part Funded By National Lottery)

42,617

42,617

B.10.

Grants To Colleges Providing Courses In Irish (Part Funded By National Lottery)

1,256

1,178

(78)

B.11.

Occupational Health Strategy For First And Second Level Teachers

2,000

948

(1,052)

B.12.

Payments In Relation To The Winding Up Of Institiúid Teangeolaíochta Éireann

320

275

(45)

B.13.

Royal Irish Academy Of Music General Expenses (Grant-In-Aid)

Original

3,644

Supplementary

300

3,944

3,944

B.14.

Grant-In-Aid Fund For General Expenses Of Cultural, Scientific And Educational Organisations (Part Funded By National Lottery)

230

230

B.15.

North/South Co-Operation Funding

5,930

1,790

(4,140)

B.16.

Fund For General Expenses Of Organisations Involved In The Promotion Of Ireland As An International Education Centre

1,000

867

(133)

B.17.

Miscellaneous

18,525

18,732

207

B.18.

Schools Information And Communication Technologies Activities

Original

21,681

Supplementary

(9,000)

12,681

9,816

(2,865)

B.19.

Commission On Child Abuse

18,631

7,384

(11,247)

B.20.

School Completion Programme

28,888

31,116

2,228

B.21.

National Educational Psychological Service

17,700

15,585

(2,115)

B.22.

National Qualifications Framework

11,800

12,500

700

B.23.

National Education Welfare Board

9,808

9,738

(70)

B.24.

Residential Institutions Redress

185,079

184,955

(124)

B.25.

National Council For Special Education

11,136

8,920

(2,216)

B.26.

Educational Disadvantage (Dormant Accounts Funding)

Original

24,500

Supplementary

(20,000)

4,500

3,330

(1,170)

First-Level Education Grants & Services

C.1.

Salaries, Etc., Of Teachers

1,807,382

1,848,327

40,945

C.2.

Model Schools — Miscellaneous Expenses

365

408

43

C.3.

Capitation Grants Towards Operating Costs Of National Schools

150,400

149,812

(588)

C.4

Salaries Etc. Of Non-Teaching Staff In National Schools Including Special Needs Assistants, Caretakers And Clerical Officers

237,546

247,658

C.5.

Other Grants And Services

93,210

82,145

(11,065)

C.6.

Library Grants

2,118

2,129

11

C.7.

Centres For Young Offenders

7,199

7,359

160

C.8.

Special Education Initiatives

11,250

8,541

(2,709)

C.9.

Superannuation, Etc., Of Teachers

Original

327,595

Supplementary

26,000

353,595

353,849

254

Second Level & Further Education Grants & Services

D.1

Salaries, Etc., Of Teachers In Secondary, Comprehensive And Community Schools

1,227,293

1,203,306

(23,987)

D.2.

Grants To Secondary School Authorities And Other Grants And Services In Respect Of Secondary Schools

103,022

102,485

(537)

D.3

Salaries, Etc., Of Non Teaching Staff In Secondary, Comprehensive And Community Schools Including Special Needs Assistants And Clerical Officers

37,113

34,350

(2,763)

D.4.

Superannuation Of Secondary, Comprehensive And Community School Teachers

Original

211,310

Supplementary

37,600

248,910

249,463

553

D.5

Comprehensive And Community Schools — Running Costs

44,253

45,608

1,355

D.6.

Annual Grants To Vocational Education Committees (Excluding Certain Grants In Respect Of Specialist Colleges And Student Support)

851,185

864,164

12,979

D.7.

Payments To Local Authorities In Respect Of Superannuation Charges

Original

122,416

Supplementary

14,000

136,416

146,188

9,772

D.8.

Miscellaneous Post-Primary Services

37,874

26,629

(11,245)

D.9.

Special Initiatives Adult Education

42,455

42,455

D.10.

State Examinations Commission

55,293

56,101

808

D.11.

Miscellaneous

4,861

4,882

21

Third Level & Further Education Grants & Services

E.1.

Student Support

241,345

242,753

1,408

E.2.

University Scholarships

1,250

1,161

(89)

E.3.

An Túdarás Um Ard-Oideachas — Grant-in-Aid For General Expenses

5,936

5,936

E.4.

An Túdarás Um Ard-Oideachas — General Current Grants To Universities And Colleges, Institutes Of Technology And Other Designated Institutions Of Higher Education (Grant-In-Aid)

1,313,440

1,313,440

E.5.

Grants In Respect Of The Running Costs Of The Institutes Of Technology And One Vocational Education Committee College

11,402

11,402

E.6.

Training Colleges For Primary Teachers Excluding Those Funded Through The Higher Education Authority

10,811

11,216

405

E.7.

St. Catherine’s Training College For Teachers Of Home Economics

1,889

2,384

495

E.8.

Dublin Dental Hospital — Dental Education Grant (Grant-In-Aid)

Original

11,496

Supplementary

600

12,096

12,096

E.9.

Dublin Institute For Advanced Studies (Grant-In-Aid)

7,732

7,732

E.10.

Grant In Respect Of Tuition Fees To Designated Non-Higher Education Authority Third-Level Institutions

3,530

3,589

59

E.11.

Miscellaneous

830

887

57

E.12.

Grants To Certain Third Level Institutions

19,127

19,054

(73)

E.13.

Alleviation Of Disadvantage

17,320

17,319

(1)

E.14.

Research And Development Activities

93,714

83,783

(9,931)

E.15.

Grangegorman Development Agency

Original

1,031

Supplementary

2,500

3,531

3,525

(6)

E.16.

Strategic Innovation Fund

Original

60,000

Supplementary

(60,000)

Capital Services

F.1.

Building, Equipment And Furnishing Of National Schools And Centres For Young Offenders

Original

306,000

Supplementary

88,000

394,000

398,556

4,556

F.2.

Second-Level Schools — Building Grants And Capital Costs

236,000

247,470

11,470

F.3.

Building Grants And Capital Costs Of The Institutes Of Technology, Other Colleges And The Research Technological Development And Innovation Programme

244

350

106

F.4.

An Túdarás um Ard-Oideachas — Building Grants And Capital Costs For Universities And Colleges, Institutes Of Technology, Designated Institutions Of Higher Education, And The Research Technological Development And Innovation Programme (Grant-In-Aid)

156,256

147,085

(9,171)

F.5.

Schools Information And Communication Technologies Activities

Original

10,000

Supplementary

(8,000)

2,000

1,763

(237)

F.6.

Public Private Partnership Costs

33,000

31,868

(1,132)

Gross Total

Original

8,640,234

Supplementary

72,800

8,713,034

8,704,590

(8,444)

Deduct:—

G.

Appropriations-In-Aid:

Original

254,903

Supplementary

(27,200)

227,703

227,363

(340)

Net Total

Original

8,385,331

Supplementary

100,000

8,485,331

8,477,227

(8,104)

SURPLUS TO BE SURRENDERED €8,103,940

The Statement of Accounting Policies and Principles and Notes 1 to 21 form part of this Account.

Subhead

Less/(More) Than Provided

Explanation

€000

A.6.

2,593

The saving arose principally due to delays in progressing a number of refurbishment projects in 2007.

The cost of maintenance works required on the Department’s premises was lower than anticipated.

A.7.

(213)

The excess arose due to consultancy costs, previously met from other subheads, being met from this consultancy subhead with effect from 2007.

A.8.

1,423

The saving arose mainly due to procurement difficulties in the roll out of the Regional Office network.

B.3.

90

The saving arose principally as there were a less than anticipated number of international activities both abroad and in Ireland.

B.5.

660

The saving arose mainly due to activity on the Education Equality Initiative not progressing at the rate anticipated in 2007 and to overestimation of the 2007 financial requirement.

B.7.

700

The saving arose due to the allowance being made for the carry over of funds from 2005 and 2006.

B.10.

78

The savings arose as certain payments were delayed in 2007.

B.11.

1,052

The saving arose due to delays in the tendering process for the occupational health service.

B.12.

45

The saving arose as legal costs in some cases were not agreed in 2007.

B.15.

4,140

The saving arose principally as the legislative and administrative changes required to the George Mitchell Scholarship Fund Act, 1998 were not finalised by end 2007.

B.16.

133

The saving arose as the establishment of a new body, Education Ireland, did not proceed in 2007, as originally anticipated.

B.18.

2,865

The saving was due largely to lower than expected on-going costs for the NCTE and also to lower than expected costs in regard to the broadband network.

B.19.

11,247

The savings arose principally due to overestimation of the Commission’s third party legal costs for 2007.

B.20.

(2,228)

The excess arose principally due to the re-scheduling of the second phase of payments for the School Completion Programme. The schemes progressed more quickly than had originally been anticipated in 2007.

B.21.

2,115

The saving was due largely to slower than anticipated recruitment of staff and the delays in commissioning NEPS offices in a number of areas

B.22.

(700)

The excess related principally to expenditure on the upgrade of the FETAC information technology system which was approved to proceed in the second half of 2007. The cost of the project had not been factored into the original estimates allocation for 2007.

B.25.

2,216

The savings arose due to delays in filling staff vacancies and costs on planned expenditure programmes progressing at a slower rate than originally anticipated.

B.26.

1,170

The savings arose mainly due to a slower than anticipated rate of completion of projects and claims being submitted later than originally had been anticipated.

C.2.

(43)

The excess arose due to underestimation of the 2007 financial requirement for the model schools.

C.5.

11,065

The savings arose principally from delays during 2007 in the multi-annual investment Special Education Programme and lower than expected legal costs.

C.8.

2,709

The savings arose mainly due to a re-scheduling of the funding arrangements.

D.3.

2,763

The saving is mainly due to an overestimation of the general salary cost of non-teaching staff in post — primary schools in 2007.

D.7.

(9,772)

The excess arose due to higher than anticipated superannuation costs in 2007.

D.8.

11,245

The saving arose principally as a result of a slower than anticipated roll out of the National Behaviour Support Service and delays in the early stages of the Dispersed Disadvantage Initiative.

E.2.

89

The saving arose mainly due to a delay in the colleges submitting invoices for fees to the Department.

E.7.

(495)

The excess arose due to additional costs associated with the closure of St. Catherine’s College.

E.11.

(57)

The excess is due to underestimation. Due to its miscellaneous nature it is difficult to predict expenditure on this subhead.

E.14.

9,931

The saving arose as expenditure on a number of research projects including the PRTLI and Technological Sector Research was less than anticipated.

F.2.

(11,470)

Additional funding was made available by way of virement. Expenditure on the post primary school building and modernisation programme advanced more rapidly than was anticipated.

F.3.

(106)

The excess arose due to underestimation.

F.4.

9,171

Management of the overall capital envelope identified savings in this area to support the expenditure occurring under subhead F.2.

F.5.

237

The saving in the subhead principally arose due to lower than expected costs of broadband roll-out equipment supports, lower expenditure on Networking grants for schools and lower than expected capital outlay by the National Centre for Technology in Education.

OFFICE OF THE MINISTER FOR EDUCATION AND SCIENCE

"Account of the sum expended, in the year ended 31 December 2008, compared with the sum granted and of the sum which may be applied as appropriations-in-aid in addition thereto for the salaries and expenses of the Office of the Minister for Education and Science, for certain services administered by that Office, and for payment of certain grants and grants-in-aid."

SERVICE

Estimate Provision

Outturn

Difference

€000

€000

€000

€000

Administration

A.1.

Salaries, Wages And Allowances

67,400

65,206

(2,194)

A.2.

Travel And Subsistence

3,222

2,677

(545)

A.3.

Incidental Expenses

2,340

2,055

(285)

A.4.

Postal And Telecommunications Services

3,600

3,293

(307)

A.5.

Office Machinery And Other Office Supplies And Related Services

10,136

7,923

(2,213)

A.6.

Office Premises Expenses

3,075

3,129

54

A.7.

Consultancy Services

900

785

(115)

A.8.

Regional Office Service

470

395

(75)

A.9.

Value For Money And Policy Reviews

1,400

813

(587)

Other Services

B.1.

Grant-In-Aid Fund For General Expenses Of Adult Education Organisations (Part Funded By National Lottery)

959

956

(3)

B.2.

Transport Services

Original

175,206

Supplementary

10,500

185,706

185,725

19

B.3.

International Activities

1,306

1,215

(91)

B.4.

Education Exchanges Unesco Contribution And International

2,412

2,173

(239)

B.5.

Research And Development Activities

8,861

6,119

(2,742)

B.6.

In Career Development

Original

33,790

Supplementary

(6,220)

27,570

26,359

(1,211)

B.7.

Expenses Of National Council For Curriculum And Assessment

4,722

4,749

27

B.8.

Grant-In-Aid Fund For General Expenses Of Youth Organisations And Other Expenditure In Relation To Youth Activities

12,591

12,527

(64)

B.9.

Grant-In-Aid Fund For General Expenses Of Youth Organisations And Other Expenditure In Relation To Youth Activities (Part Funded By National Lottery)

43,733

43,567

(166)

B.10.

Grants To Colleges Providing Courses In Irish (Part Funded By National Lottery)

1,256

1,432

176

B.11.

Occupational Health Strategy For First And Second Level Teachers

2,000

1,538

(462)

B.12.

Payments In Relation To The Winding Up Of Institiúid Teangeolaíochta Éireann

51

10

(41)

B.13.

Royal Irish Academy Of Music General Expenses (Grant-In-Aid)

4,090

4,083

(7)

B.14.

Grant-In-Aid Fund For General Expenses Of Cultural, Scientific And Educational Organisations (Part Funded By National Lottery)

235

230

(5)

B.15.

North/South Co-Operation Funding

Original

5,880

Supplementary

(4,000)

1,880

1,691

(189)

B.16.

Fund For General Expenses Of Organisations Involved In The Promotion Of Ireland As An International Education Centre

1,000

845

(155)

B.17.

Miscellaneous

17,536

13,364

(4,172)

B.18.

Schools Information And Communication Technologies Activities

Original

37,239

Supplementary

(24,000)

13,239

12,032

(1,207)

B.19.

Commission On Child Abuse

18,132

15,696

(2,436)

B.20.

School Completion Programme

31,160

28,932

(2,228)

B.21.

National Educational Psychological Service

17,900

17,137

(763)

B.22.

National Qualifications Framework

15,135

14,435

(700)

B.23.

National Education Welfare Board

10,119

10,085

(34)

B.24.

Residential Institutions Redress

Original

185,000

Supplementary

(25,000)

160,000

158,161

(1,839)

B.25.

National Council For Special Education

10,832

8,351

(2,481)

B.26.

Educational Disadvantage (Dormant Accounts Funding)

25,000

18,771

(6,229)

First-Level Education Grants & Services

C.1.

Salaries, Etc., Of Teachers

Original

1,973,785

Supplementary

40,000

2,013,785

2,009,661

(4,124)

C.2.

Model Schools — Miscellaneous Expenses

421

421

C.3.

Capitation Grants Towards Operating Costs Of National Schools

167,400

165,634

(1,766)

C.4.

Salaries Etc. Of Non-Teaching Staff In National Schools Including Special Needs Assistants, Caretakers And Clerical Officers

Original

276,430

Supplementary

10,000

286,430

287,098

668

C.5.

Other Grants And Services

Original

123,762

Supplementary

(13,000)

110,762

97,846

(12,916)

C.6.

Library Grants

2,129

2,199

70

C.7.

Special Education Initiatives

Original

14,800

Supplementary

(2,700)

12,100

11,546

(554)

C.8.

Superannuation, Etc., Of Teachers

381,000

385,149

4,149

Second Level & Further Education Grants & Services

D.1.

Salaries, Etc., Of Teachers In Secondary, Comprehensive And Community Schools

1,290,342

1,292,787

2,445

D.2.

Grants To Secondary School Authorities And Other Grants And Services In Respect Of Secondary Schools

Original

114,020

Supplementary

(11,800)

102,220

102,345

125

D.3.

Salaries, Etc., Of Non-Teaching Staff In Secondary, Comprehensive And Community Schools Including Special Needs Assistants And Clerical Officers

44,501

43,182

(1,319)

D.4.

Superannuation Of Secondary, Comprehensive And Community School Teachers

262,000

268,965

6,965

D.5.

Comprehensive And Community Schools — Running Costs

47,591

47,411

(180)

D.6.

Annual Grants To Vocational Education Committees (Excluding Certain Grants In Respect Of Specialist Colleges And Student Support)

Original

887,516

Supplementary

48,000

935,516

933,296

(2,220)

D.7.

Payments To Local Authorities In Respect Of Superannuation Charges

Original

150,000

Supplementary

15,000

165,000

163,764

(1,236)

D.8.

Miscellaneous

Original

38,740

Supplementary

(4,350)

34,390

32,203

114

D.9.

Special Initiatives Adult Education

44,832

44,590

D.10.

State Examinations Commission

57,166

62,054

4,888

Third Level & Further Education Grants & Services

E.1.

Student Support

263,245

263,606

361

E.2.

University Scholarships

1,250

1,250

E.3.

An Túdarás Um Ard-Oideachas — Grant-In-Aid For General Expenses

6,124

6,101

(23)

E.4.

An Túdarás Um Ard-Oideachas — General Current Grants To Universities And Colleges, Institutes Of Technology And Other Designated Institutions Of Higher Education (Grant-In-Aid)

Original

1,386,668

Supplementary

8,800

1,395,468

1,393,168

(2,300)

E.5.

Training Colleges For Primary Teachers Excluding Those Funded Through The Higher Education Authority

13,109

13,032

(77)

E.6.

Payments In Relation To The Winding Up Of St. Catherine’s College Of Education

1,455

864

(591)

E.7.

Dublin Dental Hospital — Dental Education Grant (Grant-In-Aid)

Original

12,474

Supplementary

700

13,174

12,446

(728)

E.8.

Dublin Institute For Advanced Studies (Grant-In-Aid)

Original

7,998

Supplementary

70

8,068

8,044

(24)

E.9.

Grant In Respect Of Tuition Fees To Designated Non-Higher Education Authority Third-Level Institutions

3,763

4,056

293

E.10.

Miscellaneous

565

234

(331)

E.11.

Grants To Certain Third Level Institutions

19,967

19,688

(279)

E.12.

Alleviation Of Disadvantage

17,984

17,984

E.13.

Research And Development Activities

Original

106,014

Supplementary

(27,000)

79,014

76,293

(2,721)

E.14.

Grangegorman Development Agency

7,056

6,684

(372)

E.15.

Strategic Innovation Fund

Original

40,000

Supplementary

(23,000)

17,000

16,000

(1,000)

Capital Services

F.1.

Building, Equipment And Furnishing Of National Schools

Original

390,200

Supplementary

75,000

465,200

488,754

23,554

F.2.

Second-Level Schools — Building Grants And Capital Costs

Original

196,000

Supplementary

(45,000)

151,000

155,278

4,278

F.3.

An Túdarás Um Ard-Oideachas — Building Grants And Capital Costs For Universities And Colleges, Institutes Of Technology, Designated Institutions Of Higher Education, And Research And Development (Grant-In-Aid)

Original

184,150

Supplementary

(29,000)

155,150

155,220

70

F.4.

Building Grants And Capital Costs Of Other Third Level Institutions

250

158

(92)

F.5.

Public Private Partnership Costs

32,400

29,570

(2,830)

Gross Total

Original

9,325,795

Supplementary

(7,000)

9,318,795

9,295,040

(23,755)

Deduct:—

G.

Appropriations-In-Aid

Original

272,343

Supplementary

(22,500)

249,843

265,364

15,521

Net Total

Original

9,053,452

Supplementary

15,500

9,068,952

9,029,676

(39,276)

SURPLUS TO BE SURRENDERED €39,275,978

Subhead

Less/(More) Than Provided

Explanation

€000

A.9.

587

The saving arises due to overestimation of the 2008 funding requirement for value for money reviews.

B.4.

239

The saving arose principally due to a lower than anticipated level of take up of scholarships in 2008 and additional savings resulted from a more favourable US Dollar — Euro exchange rate on the contribution paid to UNESCO.

B.5.

2,742

The saving is largely due to funding requirements across a range of programmes in 2008, being lower than estimated.

B.10.

(176)

Following the completion of compliance checks an excess arose due to payment of sums withheld from previous years.

B.11.

462

The saving arose principally due to delays in implementing the second and final phase of the occupational health strategy.

B.15.

189

A saving arose due to certain projects not progressing as quickly as had been anticipated during 2008.

B.16.

155

The saving arose from the 2008 Government policy to rationalise State Agencies, the establishment of Education Ireland was not progressed during 2008.

B.17.

4,172

The savings on this subhead are net savings as this is a miscellaneous subhead, with 13 sub-divisions. The savings were principally due to assist virement and additionally arose from the cancellation/ postponement of initiatives due to a Government decision to effect administrative savings. A saving of €2 million arose as a consequence of the Teaching Council moving to a self financing position during 2008.

B.18.

1,207

The savings principally arise due to lower than expected expenditure on the ICT programme arising from a slower commencement of the national seminars for ICT co-ordinating teachers and principals and lower than expected expenditure by the N.C.T.E.

B.19.

2,436

The savings arose mainly due to delays in processing third party legal bills during 2008.

B.20.

2,228

In 2007 this subhead incurred an excess of €2.2m due to difficulties in forecasting when the second phase of the School Completion Programme payments would be made. The payments were made in December 2007 which resulted in an excess on this subhead in 2007 and a consequential underspend of €2.2m in 2008.

B.25.

2,481

The savings arose due to a number of vacancies remaining unfilled during 2008 and additionally a reduction in grant payments from the Department to take account of an operating surplus reported by the NCSE in its 2007 accounts.

B.26.

6,229

The savings principally arise due to delays in getting projects approved and consequent drawdown of grant-in-aid being slower than anticipated.

C.5.

12,918

The savings on this subhead are net savings due to the subhead having 17 subdivisions and being miscellaneous in nature. €9.3m of the saving relates to savings accruing from lower than anticipated costs of rental of temporary school accommodation. The reduction in current costs has been offset by an increase in capital costs relating to the purchase of such accommodation. As the subhead is miscellaneous in nature, the remainder of the savings arise principally due to initiatives not progressing as anticipated when the 2009 Estimates were prepared.

D.8.

2,187

The saving on this subhead is a net savings as this is a miscellaneous subhead, with 14 subdivisions. The 2008 saving principally arises from progress being slower than anticipated in regard to the operation of the National Behaviour Support service.

D.10.

(4,888)

The excess arose principally due to costs associated with an increased number of special examination centres to cater for students requiring reasonable accommodations, additional candidature particularly at leaving certificate, increased costs associated with the revised timetable arrangements and higher than anticipated overheads and running costs for the exams service.

E.6.

591

The saving arose due to costs associated with the closure of the college being lower than anticipated in 2008.

E.7.

728

The saving principally arose as new contracts for academic medical consultants were not agreed prior to year end.

E.10.

331

The saving arose mainly as the level of funding made available for an Appeals Board for student grants, was not drawn down, as anticipated. Additionally as the subhead is ad-hoc in nature it is difficult to predict the level of funding required.

E.14.

372

The saving is principally due to lower than estimated drawdown of grants in 2008.

E.15.

1,000

The saving arose as spending on the first cycle of the Strategic Innovation Fund was slower than profiled, due to the projects requiring a longer lead in time to become established.

F.1.

(23,554)

Additional funding was made available by way of virement in order to prioritise major capital projects in primary schools in response to demographic trends and to maintain the impetus of the Departments ongoing programme of modernisation of existing primary school accommodation.

F.4.

92

Spending on this subhead was curtailed to assist with management of the overall capital envelope.

F.5.

2,830

The savings arose principally due to projects not progressing as quickly as anticipated, delays were experienced in obtaining planning permission for new projects as well as difficulties in finalising the contract for Schools Bundle 1.

School Staffing

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

448 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will ensure that a school (details supplied) in County Limerick can keep its complement of staff for the behaviour support classroom in view of the excellent work being done, the high level of economic deprivation and the number of students who have recommendations of support by way of psychological reports; her views on whether a school such as this needs to retain all of its support staff; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21805/10]

The National Behaviour Support Service (NBSS) provides behaviour improvement support and advice to 62 schools nationally and special behaviour support classrooms/programmes have been established in 30 of these schools. Behaviour support classrooms/programmes provide an individualised intensive intervention for students who are unable to abide by a schools code of behaviour. This intervention teaches appropriate behaviours to students and also addresses literacy issues if they arise. The core purpose of a behaviour support classroom/ programme is to enable a student to access all education provision in their school. All schools with a behaviour support classroom/programme have the equivalent of two additional teachers above their allocation. The school in question has a behaviour support classroom/programme and therefore has the equivalent of two additional teachers above their allocation. In addition the school also has the ongoing support and advice from a Regional Development Officer.

Higher Education Grants

John Cregan

Question:

449 Deputy John Cregan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills her plans to allow mature students who are Irish citizens and currently studying abroad and wish to return home to study, to be exempt from the regulations governing residency status here in order to qualify for a higher education grant; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21835/10]

The principal financial support available to students in higher education is the student maintenance grant. Students who are entering approved courses are eligible for financial assistance where they satisfy the relevant conditions including those relating to residency, means, age, nationality and previous academic attainment.

When the Minister announced details of the student maintenance grant schemes for the 2009/2010 academic year notice was given that, with effect from the start of the 2010/2011 academic year, further changes would be introduced including a change to the residency requirement in the State for grant eligibility which will be increased from one year to three out of the past five years for the student — a move that is in line with provisions already outlined in the Student Support Bill.

The full criteria for the 2010 maintenance grant schemes were announced yesterday 24th May, 2010. Clause 4.1.1 in relation to residency of the 2010 Higher Education Grants Scheme states:

"The candidate shall have been ordinarily resident in the State for at least three out of the last five years immediately preceding the date on which a year of study on an approved course in an approved institution commences. If not so resident, the candidate shall have been temporarily resident outside of the State by reason of pursuing a course of study or postgraduate research at an approved institution outside of the State but within an EU Member State, and was resident in the State for at least 3 out of the 5 years immediately preceding the date on which they commenced such course of study or postgraduate research".

The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the relevant assessing authority, i.e. the applicant's local authority or VEC. An applicant may appeal the decision to the relevant local authority or VEC. Where the assessing authority decides to reject the appeal, the applicant may appeal this decision to my Department by submitting an appeal form outlining clearly the grounds for the appeal. Detailed information on financial supports for students can be found on the website www.studentfinance.ie.

Bullying in Schools

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

450 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been brought to recent cases of bullying in second level schools, both here and abroad, with tragic results; if she is satisfied that second level schools have published and made available policies to counteract bullying; if discovered cases should, in her opinion, be reported to the National Education Welfare Board and the Garda; if the parents of victims have a right to receive a written response and report from the principal and or board of management; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21878/10]

There is no requirement for local school authorities to report incidents or allegations of bullying to my Department, nor do I believe that this should be the case. Under the Education Act 1998, legally, all schools are managed, on behalf of the school Patron or Trustees, by school Boards of Management who employ the teachers at the school. Whereas as I, as Minister for Education and Skills provide funding and policy direction for schools, neither I, as Minister, or my Department have the power to instruct schools to follow a particular course or direction with regards to individual complaint cases, other than in relation to appeals taken against refusal to enrol, suspension, or expulsion, under Section 29 of the Education Act.

Agreement has been reached between teacher unions and school management bodies about the procedures which should apply when investigating and replying to complaints in schools. Where parents raise a concern with schools, I support an approach whereby schools keep parents informed throughout the decision making process; and inform parents of both its decision as well as the reason for its decision. Accordingly, responsibility for tackling bullying falls to the level of the individual school, as it is at local level that an effective anti-bullying climate must be established and at that level that actions should be taken to address allegations of bullying.

I am, however, anxious to support schools in tackling bullying and it is for that reason that a number of supports have been put in place in recent years to assist schools in dealing with this important issue. The Board of Management of each school is required to prepare a code of behaviour in accordance with Section 23 of the Education (Welfare) Act 2000. To assist schools in formulating such a code, the National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) has developed guidelines for schools on Codes of Behaviour. My Department further requires each school to have in place a policy which includes specific measures to deal with bullying behaviour, within the framework of an overall school code of behaviour and discipline. Such a code, developed through consultation with the whole school community and properly implemented, can be the most influential measure in countering bullying behaviour in schools.

The education of students in both primary and post-primary schools in relation to anti-bullying behaviour is part of the SPHE curriculum. SPHE is now a compulsory subject both at primary level and in the junior cycle of post-primary schools. My Department has also issued guidelines as an aid to schools in devising measures to prevent and deal with instances of bullying behaviour and to increase awareness among school management authorities of their responsibilities in this regard. These guidelines were drawn up following consultation with representatives of school management, teachers and parents, and are sufficiently flexible to allow each school authority to adapt them to suit the particular needs of their school.

My Department has additionally published policy templates for post-primary schools in five key areas, including anti-bullying on its website of as part of our ongoing efforts in this regard. The template documents are not prescriptive, but rather highlight possible approaches and potential material for inclusion in school policies. The anti-bullying policy template is based primarily on the key document Guidelines on Countering Bullying Behaviour. However, it does take account of more recent legislative and regulatory changes, and reference is also made to issues of contemporary concern such as the need to tackle text bullying, cyber-bullying and homophobic bullying.

My Department does receive a number of complaints and queries from parents regarding matters such as bullying, involving schools. In dealing with complaints the Department's role is to provide advice to parents and students on the operation of schools' complaints procedures and to clarify for parents and pupils how grievances and complaints against schools can be progressed. In providing such advice, the Department brings to the attention of parents that should they wish to make an allegation of child abuse, or report a matter relating to child safety or the protection of children that they may report this matter to the Department of Education who will then deal with the allegation in accordance with its role and child protection procedures.

The Department of Education and Skills takes issues of a child protection nature extremely seriously. The role of the Department of Education and Skills in relation to allegations of child abuse is firstly to offer guidance and support to schools in implementing child protection policy, and secondly, to ensure that it brings any child abuse allegations that it receives to the attention of both the school concerned and the health Service Executive (HSE), or Garda Síochána, in accordance with Office Notice SG0 01/07: Child Protection Guidelines for Persons Employed by the Department of Education. Parents may also report allegations of child abuse directly to the HSE or Garda.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

451 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will confirm when the current guidelines on countering bullying behaviour were published; the number of times that these guidelines have been revised; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21879/10]

Responsibility for tackling bullying falls to the level of the individual school as it is at local level that an effective anti-bullying climate must be established. Section 23 of the Education Welfare Act 2000 requires all schools to have in place a Code of Behaviour. Such a code, developed through consultation with the whole school community and properly implemented, can be the most influential measure in countering bullying behaviour in schools.

In accordance with the Education (Welfare) Act 2000, the National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) has developed guidelines for schools on Codes of Behaviour. These guidelines were issued to schools in 2008 and state, inter alia, that the Board of Management of a school must have policies to prevent or address bullying and harassment and that schools must make clear in their code of behaviour that bullying is unacceptable. The guidelines further state that as well as making explicit that bullying is prohibited in the school, and having an anti-bullying policy, the code of behaviour should indicate what action the school will take in relation to alleged breaches of the school ‘ s bullying policy .

My Department's "Guidelines on Countering Bullying Behaviour in Primary and Post-Primary Schools" were issued in September 1993, as an aid to schools in devising measures to prevent and deal with instances of bullying behaviour and to increase awareness among school management authorities of their responsibilities in this regard. These guidelines were drawn up following consultation with representatives of school management, teachers and parents, and are sufficiently flexible to allow each school authority to adapt them to suit the particular needs of their school.

In 2007 my Department published, on its website, policy templates for post-primary schools in five key areas, including anti-bullying. The template documents are not prescriptive, but rather highlight possible approaches and potential material for inclusion in school policies and takes account of more recent legislative and regulatory changes. Reference is also made to issues of contemporary concern such as the need to tackle text bullying, cyber-bullying and homophobic bullying.

School Placement

Terence Flanagan

Question:

452 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will deal with a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21880/10]

The question of enrolment in individual schools is the responsibility of the managerial authority of those schools. My Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking places. This may result, however, in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.

It is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of schools to implement an enrolment policy in accordance with the Education Act, 1998. In this regard a Board of Management may find it necessary to restrict enrolment to children from a particular area or a particular age group or, occasionally, on the basis of some other criterion. The criteria to be applied by schools in such circumstances are a matter for the schools themselves. This selection process and the enrolment policy on which it is based must be non-discriminatory and must be applied fairly in respect of all applicants.

Under section 15(2)(d) of the Education Act 1998, each school is legally obliged to disclose its enrolment policy and to ensure that as regards that policy that principles of equality and the rights of parents to send their children to a school of the parents choice are respected. Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, provides parents with an appeal process where a Board of Management of a school or a person acting on behalf of the Board refuses enrolment to a student. Where a school refuses to enrol a pupil, the school is obliged to inform parents of their right under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998 to appeal that decision to either the relevant Vocational Educational Committee or to the Secretary General of my Department.

The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is the statutory agency which can assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child. The NEWB advises parents to apply to more than one school in order to assist in securing a school placement. The Board can be contacted at National Educational Welfare Board, National Headquarters, 16-22 Green Street, Dublin 7 or by telephone at 01-8738700.

School Staffing

Leo Varadkar

Question:

453 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 513 and 514 of 18 May 2010, the number of full-time primary school teachers employed on 31 March 2009; the number of part-time primary school teachers employed on the same date; if she will provide the comparable figures for both categories on 31 March 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21915/10]

The public sector number for 31 March 2009 for full-time primary teachers was 31,134. The corresponding figure for 31 March 2010 was 31,390. Part-time primary teachers were set up on the Department's payroll with effect from 1 September 2009. Previously, these part-time teachers were paid under a grant based system at individual school level. The public sector numbers for 31 March 2010 for part-time primary teachers was 470 whole-time equivalent posts. The corresponding figure for 31 March 2009 is estimated at being broadly at an equivalent level.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

454 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, further to Parliamentary Question No. 584 of 5 May 2010, regarding deductions from the payment of substitute teachers who get occasional work and whose annual payments fall below the entry level for pension related deductions, if she will indicate the approximate date when refund of the overpayments can be expected by such substitute teachers. [21922/10]

As I informed the Deputy, a system to deal with the reconciliation of PRD payments is being developed at present. Once this development is completed and implemented on the payrolls arrangements will be made to issue refunds, where appropriate, to teachers and special needs assistants. My Department is not in a position to give an exact date at present, but I will inform the deputy when the refunds are due to issue.

School Placement

Willie Penrose

Question:

455 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if, in the context of an application by a young person (details supplied) to obtain a placement in the autistic spectrum disorders unit of a school which said placement could not be facilitated by the said school, she will take steps to allow the said pupil to access a school which will facilitate their placement therein; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21929/10]

The selection and enrolment of pupils in second-level schools is the responsibility of the authorities of the individual school. My Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking second level places in an area. However, this may result in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice. As schools may not have a place for every applicant, a selection process may be necessary. This selection process and the enrolment policy on which it is based must be non-discriminatory and must be applied fairly in respect of all applicants.

Under section 15(2)(d) of the Education Act 1998, each school is legally obliged to disclose its enrolment policy and to ensure that as regards that policy that principles of equality and the right of parents to send their children to a school of the parents choice are respected. My role as Minister does not involve me identifying specific placements for individual children, but requires me to provide for Education by providing grants and funding for buildings, equipment, salaries of teachers, as well as the recognition of qualifications and inspection of facilities.

Section 29 of the Education Act 1998 provides for an appeal by a parent or guardian to the Secretary General of my Department, or in the case of a Vocational Educational Committee (VEC) school to the VEC in the first instance, where a Board of Management of a school, or a person acting on behalf of the Board, refuses to enrol a student in a school. My Department has no authority to compel a school to admit a pupil, except in the case of an appeal under Section 29 of the Education Act, 1998 being upheld.

The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is the statutory agency which can assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child. The National Educational Welfare Board will be able to offer assistance and advice on securing a school placement. The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) can also assist parents with regard to education services for persons with special educational needs.

Departmental Properties

Noel Ahern

Question:

456 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the previous Squash Ireland premises on Howth Road, Clontarf, Dublin 3; if her Department has an involvement in this site or building; if the legal owner or lessee is her Department or Mount Temple School; if there are plans to terminate the sporting facility here or alter the lease of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21940/10]

I wish to advise the Deputy that I am the title holder of the complex in question. I have no plans to alter the existing arrangements that are in place.

Schools Building Projects

Willie Penrose

Question:

457 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills her plans to provide a permanent greenfield site to enable a new school to be provided at Curraghmore, Mullingar, County Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22104/10]

The provision of a new building for the school to which the Deputy refers necessitates the acquisition of a site. The Patron has decided to make this acquisition. When a site is available, consideration can be given to the inclusion of a building project for the school in the School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of the current level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of a building project for the school at this time.

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