Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 27 May 2010

Vol. 710 No. 3

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 12, inclusive, answered orally.

Housing Adaptation Grants

Olwyn Enright

Question:

13 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 224 and 225 of 29 April 2010, if his attention has been drawn to the fact that approximately 200 persons are waiting for works to be carried out under the former special housing aid for the elderly scheme in County Laois; when he will make moneys available to the Health Service Executive in this administrative area for the remaining claims. [22178/10]

Olwyn Enright

Question:

40 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 224 and 225 of 29 April 2010, if his attention has been drawn to the fact that approximately 200 persons are waiting for works to be carried out under the former special housing aid for the elderly scheme in County Offaly; when he will make moneys available to the Health Service Executive in this administrative area for the remaining claims; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22177/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 13 and 40 together.

On foot of a Government Decision, taken in February 2006, to transfer the administration of the Special Housing Aid for the Elderly Scheme (SHAE) from the Health Service Executive (HSE) to the local authority sector, a revised suite of Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability was implemented on 1 November, 2007. The revised schemes target available resources to those in most need, streamline operational and administrative procedures and ensure equity and consistency of operation across all local authority areas. In order to facilitate transitional arrangements, it was agreed between my Department and the HSE that the SHAE scheme would be discontinued from 1 August 2008 and that the HSE would process and approve the applications on hand at that date. My Department agreed to recoup the full cost of all such grant payments to the HSE. All new applications in respect of grant assistance for home repairs and improvements with effect from 1 August 2008 would be directed to the local authorities and dealt with under the provisions of the Housing Aid for Older People scheme.

My Department provided a total of €14.7 million to the HSE in 2008 for the operation of the SHAE scheme. In July 2009, following detailed consultation with the HSE, my Department provided a further €3.5 million in respect of the remaining claims on hand in all HSE regions. The Dublin Mid-Leinster region received an allocation of €0.5 million, the full amount sought by the HSE. It is a matter for the HSE to apportion funding within regions.

The HSE did not advise my Department of any requirement for additional funding in 2010 in respect of those applications on hand prior to 1 August, 2008. In light of this and on the understanding that all outstanding grant claims would be met from the 2009 allocation, no provision was made for an allocation to the HSE in 2010. Having regard to the continued priority which the Government attaches to the suite of housing adaptation grants and the high level of demand across all local authorities, on 5 March 2010, I announced a record Exchequer allocation of some €80 million to the local authorities for spending on the grant schemes this year.

Water and Sewerage Schemes

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

14 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the statement in the Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012 that a number of contracts and schemes in the programme address the requirement for capacity increases, particularly in gateways and hubs and other developing areas; if these contracts have been reviewed in view of the current slowdown in construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22227/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

The Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012 aims to prioritise contracts and schemes 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. The preparation of the programme involved a complete review of all schemes which had not substantially progressed to ensure that they remained priorities in the light of these programme objectives.

In line with this strategic approach, the development of the Programme took into account the 2008 Forfas Report — Assessment of Water and Wastewater Services for Enterprise, which had recommended prioritisation of investment for key centres likely to require additional water and wastewater treatment capacity in the coming years. The Programme also took into account the need to support economic development of Gateways and Hubs, including developing areas in those locations, in accordance with the National Spatial Strategy. It is important that work progresses on these contracts and schemes to maximise the development potential of the areas involved when the economy recovers.

Projects were not included in the Programme if they were proposed simply for capacity expansion which was unrelated to the National Spatial Strategy/developing areas priorities, and which in the case of water supply could be deferred, in many cases, in favour of accelerated water conservation measures. In both the development of the Programme, and in the further detailed appraisal of schemes to progress through planning, the impact of future population and capacity projections to be incorporated into the updated Regional Planning Guidelines is also taken into account. The impact of the slowdown in construction has increased the potential for greater value for money in a more competitive tendering environment.

Housing Adaptation Grants

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

15 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which he has sought or received information from the various local authorities appertaining to funding required for disabled persons grants; the extent to which he has met this need or proposes to meet this need in 2010; the number of applications for such grants now in the hands of the various local authorities; the extent of the waiting lists; when he expects to meet the requirements in full; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22254/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

To comprehensively assess the overall level of demand for grant assistance under the suite of Grant Schemes for Older People and People with a Disability, my Department requested local authorities to submit details of their funding requirements for 2010 by 22 January, with a view to determining the allocations for this year as soon as possible after the publication of the 2010 Revised Estimates for Public Service.

Having regard to the continued priority which the Government attaches to these schemes and the high level of demand across all local authorities, I approved a record Exchequer allocation of €80 million to the local authorities on 5 March, 2010. It is a matter for each local authority to decide on the specific level of funding to be directed towards each of the individual schemes, from within the combined allocation notified to them by my Department, and to manage the operation of the schemes in their areas from within their allocation. The overall level of Exchequer funding sought by Local Authorities for spending in 2010 was €92.650 million. On the basis of the January returns from the local authorities, some 13,000 applications had been submitted for approval under the suite of Housing Adaptation Grant Schemes for Older People and People with a Disability, of which some 4,430 relate to adaptation works to meet the needs of persons with a disability.

Water Charges

Joan Burton

Question:

16 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the exemption from domestic water charges Ireland has at European Union level; the steps he will take in respect of this exemption in river basin management plans in 2010 and 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22228/10]

Paul Kehoe

Question:

23 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he is considering introducing flat water charges for domestic households as part of the plan to reintroduce water charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22387/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 16 and 23 together.

In December 2009, following a decision by Government, I informed the House 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.

Article 9 of the Water Framework Directive requires Member States to have in place water pricing policies to provide adequate incentives for users to use water services efficiently. Article 9 also states that a Member State will not be in breach of the Directive if it decides, in accordance with established practices at the time of adoption of the Directive, not to apply the provisions of Article 9 for a given water use. The Government's Water Pricing Policy at the time of the adoption of the Directive in October 2000, which required local authorities to recover the cost of providing water services from the users of these services, with the exception of households using the services for domestic purposes, was considered to be consistent with the requirements of Article 9.

The process of making river basin management plans in accordance with the Water Framework Directive for the period up to 2015 is well advanced with final plans to be adopted by the middle of this year. The Directive is concerned with establishing a framework for the protection and sustainable use of water, based on the long-term protection of available water resources. The introduction of metered water charges will lead to a more sustainable use of water resources and is, therefore, consistent with the Directive's key objectives.

Waste Disposal

Emmet Stagg

Question:

17 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 195 of 28 April 2010, his reason for not supporting faster resolutions of difficulties caused by odours from landfills through amending legislation. [22159/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

I recognise that a significant proportion of complaints received by the Environmental Protection Agency relate to odour problems at licensed waste facilities. A range of measures are being pursued to address these issues, including significant enforcement efforts, the revision of waste licences to require odour management plans, and the publication of guidelines setting minimum acceptable pre-treatment criteria for municipal solid waste being landfilled. Furthermore, the Food Waste Regulations, which I made last December and which come into effect in July, will reduce significantly the level of biodegradable waste being landfilled. On foot of these measures, I do not consider that further legislation is needed in this area.

Where non-compliance is detected, an escalating series of enforcement actions, from ongoing communication to warning letters, legal notices and ultimately, Court proceedings are utilised. EPA resources are managed and directed on an ongoing basis to focus the enforcement effort to where the risks or potential risks are highest and a combination of enforcement tools is used to bring about changes in environmental performance. In response to complaints relating to landfill odours, the EPA has undertaken a number of actions, including use of site agents, communication with residents' groups and other stakeholders, and assessment of the landfill gas management systems employed. Full details are contained in the Focus on Environmental Enforcement In Ireland report in respect of the years 2006-2008, which is available on the EPA website, www.epa.ie.

Water and Sewerage Schemes

Seán Barrett

Question:

18 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that local authorities not having matching funds for capital water investment projects is causing delays in rolling out capital projects as a result; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22337/10]

Pat Breen

Question:

21 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the capital water investment projects that are not to start in 2010 due to lack of funds at local authority level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22341/10]

Phil Hogan

Question:

201 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received reports from local authorities regarding the financial ability to implement the water and waste water services programme 2010 to 2012; if he is satisfied that all projects included in that programme will be implemented by the end of 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22534/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 18, 21 and 201 together.

The Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012 provides for the development of a comprehensive range of new water services infrastructure over that period. The timing of the commencement of contracts within that period is a matter for the Water Services Authorities and I encourage authorities to expedite the progression of contracts. In accordance with the Government's Water Pricing Policy, the marginal capital cost of providing water services infrastructure to the non-domestic sector is funded by that sector. Pending the receipt of funds from the non-domestic sector in respect of such works, local authorities fund the works themselves through the proceeds of development levies or access to borrowing.

I recently approved borrowing proposals amounting to €141 million for 2010 to meet the needs of authorities in relation to water services schemes, either completed or currently in progress. Within the limits set in the context of the General Government Balance, the availability of access to borrowing on an annualised basis for schemes in progress effectively ensures that Water Services Authorities have access to borrowing for water services schemes when it is required. As such, access to borrowing should not be a delaying factor in the progression of water services infrastructure.

Social and Affordable Housing

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

19 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the consideration that has been given to the policy implications, the social housing implications and the cost implications of rehousing tenants of the social housing leasing initiative when the leasing period of these privately owned properties expires; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22250/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

The issue of re-housing tenants where a lease expires is not a new one. Under the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS), which has been in place since 2004, contracts are usually for a period of 4 years. The experience to date, under the RAS, is that the vast majority of contracts are renewed at the end of the contract period and in current market conditions the new rent agreed is generally lower than in the original availability agreement.

Under the leasing initiative, the lease is for a longer period than for RAS. The minimum lease period in respect of privately owned properties is ten years and it may be up to twenty years. At the end of the lease period there will be a number of options available to the local authority to meet the social housing needs of the household. These include, renewing the lease, purchasing the unit (if an option to purchase clause has been included in the lease agreement or if the owner is willing) and taking it into social housing stock, providing the household with alternative accommodation suitable to its needs or supporting the household to purchase another dwelling under the Incremental Purchase Scheme.

Within a broader policy context the housing authority, in planning for the end of the lease period for properties in a particular area, has to consider the balance of social housing demand and supply in the area and have regard to the principles of sustainable communities. I am satisfied that the range of options available provide the necessary flexibility to enable housing authorities to meet the needs of individual households in a fair and cost effective manner and to discharge their broader responsibilities for providing social housing support in their functional areas.

Planning Issues

Jack Wall

Question:

20 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it is his intention to introduce standards and guidelines for shared spaces in urban design which are inclusive of the needs of vision impaired persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22241/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Ciarán Cuffe)

My Department published statutory Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas (Cities, Towns and Villages) in December 2008. The Guidelines are accompanied by an Urban Design manual which sets out practical examples and best practice. The Guidelines state that sustainable neighbourhoods should be guided by the principle of universal design, whereby the urban environment is designed so that it can be accessed, understood and used by all people regardless of their age, size, ability and disability. The need for street design to incorporate the needs of people with disabilities is also highlighted. In relation to these and other access and inclusivity issues, the Guidelines recommend that planning authorities should consult the National Disability Authority's guidance on universal design of the built and external environment.

Last year my Department published the Government Policy on Architecture 2009-2015 which sets out the key areas for development in urban design and architecture. It promotes standards of excellence in the design of shared space, which includes aspects of universal design and accessibility. The documents referred to above are available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie. My Department is also working in conjunction with the Department of Transport on a Manual for Streets which will address design guidance and standards for streetscapes and related shared space, and will be guided by universal design and accessibility principles.

Question No. 21 answered with Question No. 18.

Unfinished Housing Estates

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

22 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the legislation that governs the provision of the bonds provided by builders and developers; if he has undertaken an examination of the status of bonds in relation to incomplete housing estates in situations where the development has been taken over by National Asset Management Agency, by a financial institution or where the developer is in receivership if such bonds cover the full period of development or are limited to a 24 month period; if such bonds generally are related to a particular development or they are related to a particular developer thereby, possibly, covering several developments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22238/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Ciarán Cuffe)

Sections 34(4)(g) and 180(2)(b) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 provide that a planning authority may attach a condition to a planning permission, requiring the giving of adequate security for the satisfactory completion of a development, and, if the development is not subsequently completed satisfactorily, may apply the security to that satisfactory completion. My Department's Circular Letter PD 1/08 on Taking in Charge of Residential Developments / Management Arrangements states that planning authorities must take all necessary measures, in particular through securing adequate bonds, inspection of construction and enforcement action, when necessary, to ensure that developers complete residential developments to a standard that is in compliance with the planning permission granted.

In relation to bonds, the circular states that, in the case of residential development, planning conditions must require the giving of sufficient security prior to commencement of development and that planning authorities must ensure that they are in a position to draw down the security in cases where a developer fails satisfactorily to complete a residential development or phase of a development, within the specified period.

The circular also states that the amount of the security, and the terms on which it is required to be given, must enable the planning authority, without cost to itself, to complete the necessary services (including roads, footpaths, water mains, sewers, lighting and open space) to a satisfactory standard in the event of default by the developer and that the security condition must also provide for the recalculation of the amount specified in the condition by reference to the House Building Cost Index (or the Consumer Price Index), if the development to which the permission relates is not commenced within a specified period after the granting of the permission.

My Department is progressing a range of actions, with the cooperation of local authorities and other key stakeholders, to address the issue of unfinished or unoccupied estates. These actions include in the first instance an accurate quantification, classification and mapping of the various types of unfinished or unoccupied estates on a county by county basis to understand the scale and distribution of the problem. Following completion of a pilot exercise with one local authority, a comprehensive national inventory is now under way and should be completed in the middle of the year.

My Department is also preparing a best practice policy manual which aims to identify the necessary responses to ensure satisfactory outcomes in tackling difficulties on specific sites in a co-ordinated and pro-active manner. The responses will require a range of interventions across a number of disciplines — there are issues of public safety, the provision of bonds and securities, environmental protection, building control and estate management. It is a matter for the National Asset Management Agency to consider how it deals with unfinished and incomplete estates that come within its remit.

Question No. 23 answered with Question No. 16.

House Prices

Mary Upton

Question:

24 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 158 of 22 April 2010, the interested parties that have been consulted by his Department in regard to the establishment of a house price database; the timetable that has been set for this consultation; the number of meetings that have taken place to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22242/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

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, including representatives from the Department of Finance, Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Property Services Regulatory Authority, Central Statistics Office, Property Registration Authority, Revenue Commissioners, Law Reform Commission, Law Society and the Institute of Auctioneers and Valuers of Ireland. 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.

Social and Affordable Housing

Mary Upton

Question:

25 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if a formula has been devised to provide local authorities or their tenants under the social housing leasing initiative with a mechanism to purchase the actual unit they are occupying; if any such lease agreement has been entered into to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22243/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

Under the Social Housing Leasing Initiative, local authorities may include an option to purchase the lease dwellings within the lease contract, which means where this clause is invoked it will provide tenants with the opportunity to purchase the units that they are currently occupying from the local authority. To date, the majority of privately owned leased properties that have been agreed or are currently being negotiated have or are including an option to purchase clause. The Department is also examining the potential for tenants in some instances to be able to purchase the unit they are occupying directly from the owner. In addition, the recently announced Incremental Purchase Scheme will provide the opportunity for a household in a leased property to move to, and purchase, a dwelling provided by a housing authority or an approved housing body under the scheme and to avail of the relevant subsidies and discounts.

Water and Sewerage Schemes

Joan Burton

Question:

26 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water projects that were funded in the past eight years under the heading mains rehabilitation projects in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22229/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

Details of the local authority mains rehabilitation projects funded by my Department since 2002 are set out in the following table. Some of these projects are still underway.

Local Authority	Project
Carlow County Council	Carlow Water Conservation — Phase 2
Carlow County Council	Carlow Water Conservation Project (Phase 2 Town and Phase 1 Regional) — Stage 3
Cavan County Council	Arvagh Rehabilitation Contract
Cork City Council	Cork Water Conservation Phase 2 — City Network Rehab Phase 1 ( C M D — City Centre Contract No 1 — Watermain Replacement)
Cork City Council	Cork Water Conservation Phase 2 — City Network Rehab Phase 1 ( C M D — City Centre Contract No 2 — Watermain Replacement)
Dublin City Council	Dublin Water Conservation Project
Dublin City Council	Dublin Region Water Mains Rehabilitation Project (DRWRP)
Galway City Council	Old Mervue Lead distribution Watermain Replacement Contract
Limerick City Council	Mains Rehabilitation — Galvone Road — Phase 2
Mayo County Council	Water Conservation — Advance Works at Kilmaine
Mayo County Council	Ballina Water Conservation Project
Waterford City Council	Waterford Water Conservation — Phase 1 ( Mains Rehabilitation & Leakage Control)
Waterford City Council	Waterford Water Conservation — Phase 2 — Mains Rehabilitation

Mains rehabilitation is a key priority under my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas Library. The new Programme will build on existing local authority investment in water conservation by providing for a very substantial scaling up of activity on mains rehabilitation. My aim is to increase substantially investment in water conservation to provide for the commencement of contracts with a value of over €300 million over the next three years. The phasing and funding of mains rehabilitation works for each local authority are set out in the published Programme — information regarding the location of those projects may be had from the relevant local authority.

Coastal Protection

P. J. Sheehan

Question:

27 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason a limit has been placed on the removal of sea lettuce from the beaches at Inchidoney and Courtmacsherry, County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17000/10]

P. J. Sheehan

Question:

39 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will raise the amount of sea lettuce that can be removed from the beaches at Inchidoney and Courtmacsherry, County Cork, in order to allow a commercial operation (details supplied) to use the dried ulva as an ingredient for a newly developed fish feed by operating a €1.5 million drying and processing facility that would also create local employment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17001/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 27 and 39 together.

There is currently no limit imposed by either my Department or the local authority on the removal of sea lettuce from the areas in question. I understand that the local authority has invited expressions of interest from parties for proposed solutions for the collection and disposal of the sea lettuce. The closing date for receipt of these submissions was 21 May 2010.

Proposed Legislation

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

28 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps that are being taken to introduce environmental liability legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22230/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

The European Communities (Environmental Liability) Regulations 2008 which came into operation on 1 April 2009, transpose the EU Environmental Liability Directive into Irish law. Primary legislation is however required to deal with a number of discretionary provisions contained in the Directive that could not be enacted by way of secondary legislation at the time of making the 2008 Regulations. My Department is working with the Office of the Attorney General on the drafting of the Environmental Liability Bill 2010 to deal with the discretions that Ireland is proposing to adopt.

To ensure transparency in the requirements of the legislation, the Environmental Liability Bill will give effect to all of the Directive; this will mean revoking the Environmental Liability Regulations and transposing the Directive in its entirety, including the discretions, in primary legislation. It is my intention that the Bill will be published during the current Dáil session.

Motor Taxation

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

29 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on national road safety in that one in every 20 vehicles on roads here reportedly does not have tax; the plans that he has to tackle this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17870/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

Road safety is a matter for the Minister for Transport and the Road Safety Authority and one in which I have no function. In relation to motor tax, liability on a vehicle arises when the vehicle is first used in a public place following registration of the vehicle by the Revenue Commissioners and assignment of Irish number plates. It is an offence to use an untaxed mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place and enforcement is a matter for An Garda Síochána. My Department is currently examining the legislation governing the operation of the motor tax system with a view to ensuring that the system can operate as efficiently and effectively as possible. I intend to address the current system of declaring vehicles off the road, which is open to abuse, in the context of a revision and consolidation of motor tax law. In this regard, I intend to bring Heads of a Bill to Government as soon as possible.

Election Management System

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

30 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the proposed independent electoral commission will be operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21955/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

The Programme for Government, agreed in 2007, contains a commitment to the establishment of an independent Electoral Commission which will take responsibility for electoral administration and oversight, implement modern and efficient electoral practices, revise constituency boundaries, take charge of compiling a new national rolling Electoral Register, take over the functions of the Standards in Public Office Commission relating to election spending and examine the issue of financing the political system.

The renewed Programme for Government, agreed in October 2009, reaffirms this commitment and states that an independent Electoral Commission will incorporate the functions of the Standards in Public Office Commission, with enhanced powers of inspection. The renewed Programme sets out the following responsibilities which the Commission will be mandated to fulfil: to decide the constituency boundaries; administer the voting registration process; run voter education programmes; advise on mechanisms to increase the participation of women in political life, including the use of additional criteria for public funding which encourages more women and lesser represented groups; and recommend revised guidelines on the declaration of donations for political purposes.

In addition, the renewed Programme states that, within 12 months, the Commission will also propose reforms to the electoral system, including:

make recommendations on the feasibility of extending the franchise for Presidential Elections to the Irish abroad;

examine and make recommendations for changes to the electoral system for Dáil elections, including the number of deputies and their means of elections;

outline new electoral systems for Seanad Éireann;

advise on the basis for European elections to reflect new realities of the role and influence of the European Parliament, including consideration of moving towards one national constituency and using a list system;

make recommendations on the possibility of extending the franchise for Local Elections to those aged 16 or over;

set minimum standards for the taking and publication of political polls within the state to ensure fairness and accuracy, and;

consider options for the timing of elections for Local Authorities, the Dáil, Seanad and European Parliament. This should include the possibility of ‘mid-term' elections and running some elections on a ‘staggered or ‘rolled' basis so that elections do not fall on the same day for every candidate or chamber.

Towards implementing the Government Programme commitments, and to assist in consideration of the issues involved, I commissioned a report by an expert group from University College Dublin. I published the report, entitled A Preliminary Study on the Establishment of an Electoral Commission in Ireland, for consultation in February 2009. The report is available on my Department's website, www.environ.ie and I will still welcome and consider any views and observations that are put forward by interested individuals and organisations.

The Joint Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution is currently undertaking an examination of the system used for the election of members of Dáil Éireann, and in the course of this work has considered issues in respect of the administration and functioning of Ireland's electoral system generally. The outcome of the Committee's deliberations will also inform the work to establish an Independent Electoral Commission, which I expect to progress this year.

Turbary Rights

Denis Naughten

Question:

31 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to obtain agreement on the implementation of turf cutting restrictions on designated bogs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22157/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

The ten-year derogation has come to an end for 32 raised bog Special Areas of Conservation. The derogation will end for further sites at the end of 2011 and 2013. It is clear from the scientific evidence available to me that there has been a continued loss of protected habitat on these bogs that can only be effectively halted and reversed through further restrictions on turf cutting and associated drainage on these sites. The working group which I established to advise on necessary arrangements to protect designated raised bogs has met with turf cutters' representative organizations and conservation interests in order to hear their views, and these are being taken into account in the finalisation of the arrangements involved.

Capital Investment Programmes

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

32 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the full extent of his capital programme for each of the next three years; the degree to which financial provision has been made or is likely to be made to achieve any particular or specific targets in the provision, upgrading and augmentation of domestic water supplies; the extent to which he intends to fund the capital programme of each local authority in respect of domestic water supply, sewerage facilities; the extent to which anticipated spending is likely to take place under each heading, including the elimination of water pollution caused by inadequate public sewerage facilities; the degree to which he intends to make provision for group water schemes and sewerage schemes that have featured in various local authorities’ projections for the past number of years; the extent to which his spending proposals are likely to be affected in the course of meeting the various local authority housing requirements either through new building programmes, acquisition of existing housing stock or other means; the degree to which he intends to provide the necessary capital to meet local housing loan fund requirements over the period in question; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22255/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

In the renewed Programme for Government, the Government undertook to publish its revised investment priorities within the overall exchequer capital expenditure ceilings, set out in Budget 2010, of €6.43 billion for 2010 and €5.5 billion per year from 2011 to 2016. Substantial work has been undertaken by the Department of Finance, in consultation with other Departments, to review capital investment priorities, taking account of the new economic and budgetary realities. This process is nearing completion and I expect the review, when published, to include the capital expenditure envelope for my Department to 2016. From the capital envelope, allocations will be made across all programme areas in accordance with my published policies and programmes, including the Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012 and the Government's housing policy statement Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities.

Social and Affordable Housing

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

33 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of standard leased units for which funding approval has been issued by his Department; the number of these units that have not achieved a discount of 20% or more below market value. [22244/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

To the end of quarter 1, 2010, my Department had approved over 2,200 units for use under the Social Housing Leasing Initiative. Of these, some 1,172 have been issued with funding approval, of which 116 are standard lease units to be provided by either a local authority or an Approved Housing Body (AHB). Details of the bodies which have received such funding approval are set out in the table.

Breakdown by LA/AHB of standard lease units with funding approval

Housing Authority/Approved Housing Body	Number of approved units
Buncrana TC	13
Donegal Co Co	43
Templemore TC	20
Wexford Co Co	10
HELM (Kildare)	30
Total	116

Under the leasing initiative, housing authorities and approved housing bodies negotiate with property owners on the lease cost based on a standard benchmark of 20% below market rent, where the social landlord takes responsibility for the management and maintenance of the property. Of the 116 units, 74 have achieved a discount of 20% or more below market value.

Election Management System

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

34 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the interdepartmental task force into the disposal of electronic voting equipment has indicated a date for completion of its work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22245/10]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

209 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received any offers from other jurisdictions willing to purchase the now obsolete electronic voting technology; if he or his Department has sought any possible purchasers; the extent of any negotiations to date; when he expects to conclude any such discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22629/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 34 and 209 together.

Following the Government decision not to proceed with implementation of electronic voting in Ireland, an Interdepartmental Task Force, chaired by my Department, was established to bring the project to an orderly conclusion and to oversee disposal of the equipment and termination of storage arrangements. To date, the Task Force has met four times, with its most recent meeting taking place in March 2010. Between meetings, my Department maintains ongoing contact with members of the Task Force, in order to progress work on the cessation arrangements for the project. While the Task Force has not, at this stage, invited proposals in respect of the equipment, some expressions of interest have been received in the course of its work. The Task Force aims to complete its work as soon as possible.

In considering options for disposal of the equipment, the priority is to pursue the most economically advantageous approach, with a view to achieving the maximum recovery of cost possible in the circumstances, consistent with environmental and other obligations. Detailed consideration of all relevant factors is underway to inform the manner in which disposal of the machines will be effected. This includes contact with the original suppliers of the machines.

National Monuments

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

35 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the need for the national monuments legislation to be amended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22234/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

The Programme for Government 2007 — 2012 contained a commitment, re-affirmed in the renewed Programme for Government in October 2009, to update and consolidate the law on national monuments to improve the protection of our archaeological heritage. The Government has approved the detailed legislative proposals which I brought forward on foot of a comprehensive review of archaeological policy and practice by a specially appointed expert group, and the drafting of the new Bill is now underway.

Public Procurement

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

36 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps that he has taken to ensure that sustainable timber is used by public bodies including local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22236/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

Directives 2004/17/EC and 2004/18/EC, which were transposed into Irish law by regulations made by the Minister for Finance, allow for environmental and social criteria and conditions to be integrated into public procurement procedures. Such criteria and conditions may, therefore, be included in the selection of technical specifications and award criteria, and in contract performance clauses. Accordingly, my Department's publication Quality Housing for Sustainable Communities — the best practice guidance accompanying the Government’s housing policy statement, Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities — states that: “Materials such as timber used in construction should be obtained from sustainably managed sources”.

At EU level, the current emphasis is on ensuring that all timber entering the EU comes from legal sources. To this end, a new EU Regulation will require timber traders operating in the EU for the first time to operate "due diligence" systems as a further barrier to trade in illegal timber. The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, who has responsibility in this area, is negotiating this Regulation on behalf of Ireland. The provisions of this Regulation, when adopted, will be reflected in the Green Public Procurement National Action Plan being prepared by my Department, in co-operation with the National Procurement Service in the Office of Public Works, and which will be published for consultation shortly.

Furthermore, the Green Public Procurement National Action Plan will recommend that public authorities verify that the timber they procure is both legal and sustainable. This may be demonstrated through any of the widely-recognised existing commercial certification systems, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes (PEFC), the Canadian Standards Association scheme (CSA), and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI). Under the above-cited EU public procurement directives, any other appropriate form of proof and verification that timber is legal and sustainable must also be accepted.

Election Management System

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

37 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to ensure that visually impaired voters are provided with facilities to enable them to vote in secrecy; if it is his intention to have such a system in place in time for the next general election; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22239/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

Recognising that people with disabilities have particular needs, my Department endeavours to ensure that the voting process is as accessible and inclusive as possible. Currently there are two options available to assist voters with a visual impairment to vote at their local polling station; they may avail of companion voting or they may seek the assistance of the presiding officer. Other measures in place to assist such voters include the display of a large print version of the ballot paper in polling stations and the inclusion of candidates' photographs and party emblems on the ballot paper.

My Department is committed, as set out in our Disability Sectoral Plan 2010-2012, to examine the legislative, logistical and financial implications of independent voting, including voting by blind and visually impaired persons. In this context, my Department has met with representatives of the National Council for the Blind of Ireland and is considering a range of options including the use of tactile ballot templates like those in use in other jurisdictions. As with any review of electoral practice, it is necessary to ensure that an appropriate balance is maintained between accessibility and the secrecy and integrity of the ballot, having regard to our electoral system.

Illegal Dumping

Sean Sherlock

Question:

38 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he is satisfied with the measures taken to tackle illegal dumping in forests here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16913/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

Enforcement actions against illegal waste activity are a matter for the local authorities and the Office of Environmental Enforcement (OEE). The 2005 report of the OEE, The Nature and Extent of Unauthorised Waste Activity in Ireland, identified the unauthorised collection and fly-tipping of waste as a problem area which needed to be further tackled. The extent of fly-tipping is not, however, quantified in the report. The report drew attention to the measures already being taken, including the appointment of some one hundred and twenty additional enforcement officers funded by my Department across the local authorities and the stepped up enforcement activity generally being led by the OEE and the local authorities. It also identified additional actions which would further support the effort to stamp out this socially and environmentally unacceptable practice, such as a "man in the van" advertisement campaign and use of covert cameras. Non-routine actions are now commonplace, and include vehicle checkpoints and use of CCTV cameras for identification of offenders at fly-tipping hotspots. The implementation of these actions is coordinated on an ongoing basis by the OEE through its National Enforcement Network.

In 2008, there were 19,269 routine litter patrol investigations, 27,825 on the spot fines issued and 608 litter prosecutions. In addition, 12,000 non-litter waste complaints inspections and a further 2,434 other inspections for fly-tipping waste, burning or other surveillance purposes were undertaken by the local authorities. There were 8,151 waste enforcement notices issued and 695 prosecutions initiated but a breakdown as to how many of these related to fly-tipping is not available. Overall, this represents a very significant quantum of enforcement, consistent with the findings of the OEE's Focus on Environmental Enforcement in Ireland, covering the period 2006 to 2008, which indicates that the handling of waste-related complaints has significantly improved. Notwithstanding the significant progress achieved, I intend shortly to set up a multi agency task force to consider the matter further, with a view to determining any additional actions that may be required.

Question No. 39 answered with Question No. 27.

Question No. 40 answered with Question No. 13.

Proposed Legislation

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

41 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 492 of 26 January 2010, the progress that has been made in regard to the review of the Residential Tenancies Act 2004; if it is his intention that the Act will be brought before the Houses of the Oireachtas for amendment in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22251/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

In April 2009 my Department commenced a review of the provisions of the Residential Tenancies Act 2004, under which the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) operates. The purpose of this review was to consider whether the Act best supported the PRTB's key functions and whether legislative amendments would support either the achievement of additional operational efficiencies by the PRTB in the delivery of those functions or the broader good working of the private rented sector.

I announced the preliminary outcomes of the review in November 2009; they include recommendations in a number of key areas, and have an overall emphasis on streamlining and simplifying the Act and reducing delays. Among the main issues that will be addressed by the amending legislation are—

a statutory objective of 6 months to be set for the issuing of determination orders arising out of dispute resolution applications,

the Board of the PRTB to be reduced from 15 to 12 members,

the introduction of fixed fines where deposits are illegally retained by landlords,

measures to address non-payment of rent by tenants during a dispute process, in particular to introduce scope for the legal termination of such a tenancy,

the separation of the governance and quasi-judicial functions of the Board,

the inclusion within the remit of the Residential Tenancies Act of segments of the voluntary and co-operative housing sector that most closely parallel its current remit.

A number of issues requiring further research, including third party complaints under the Act, the Act's engagement with anti-social behaviour matters and how best to address issues surrounding the retention of deposits, are also being considered in detail.

The Government recently approved the preparation of Heads of the Bill which will also address a number of amendments to housing legislation which it was not possible to finalise in the context of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009. It is envisaged that the General Scheme of the Bill setting out the detailed proposals arising from the review will be submitted to Government in Autumn 2010, with publication of the Bill dependent on the time subsequently required for drafting by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel.

Waste Disposal

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

42 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the report he commissioned in March 2010 on the Poolbeg incinerator; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22235/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

On 22 February 2010 I appointed an authorised person pursuant to section 224 of the Local Government Act 2001 to prepare a report in relation to the nature and extent of the financial and related risks and consequences which may be faced by Dublin City Council in connection with its participation in, and performance of, the Agreement with Dublin Waste to Energy Ltd in a changing policy, legal and economic environment. I expect that the report will be furnished to me shortly.

Question No. 43 answered with Question No. 7.

Water Quality

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

44 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the drafting of river basin management plans for submission to the European Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22232/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

River basin management plans are currently being adopted, in accordance with the requirements of the Water Framework Directive, for each of the seven river basin districts in the State. The plans will set out the current status of waters, the environmental objectives which are to be achieved in the first planning cycle to 2015 and the programmes of measures which will be required in order to meet those objectives. The programmes of measures under the plans must be operational by the end of 2012.

The process of adopting the river basin management plans is well advanced. Draft plans were published in December 2008 and were subject to public consultation for a period of six months to June 2009. The plans have since been finalised and have been considered by the relevant local authorities. The EPA is now reviewing the plans and is due to report to me by 31 May 2010, with suggested amendments, if any. In the final stage of the process, it remains open to me, following consideration of the EPA report and appropriate consultation, to amend the plans by notice issued to the co-ordinating authority by 30 June 2010. The plans will, with any such amendments, come into effect on 9 July 2010 and will be reported to the European Commission immediately thereafter.

Willie Penrose

Question:

45 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the need for all public water treatment facilities to install chlorine monitor alarms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22231/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

During 2007, water services authorities were asked by my Department to review the operation of all water treatment plants (and associated infrastructure) and to ensure that the installation of continuous chlorine alarms and turbidity meters at appropriate locations at the treatment plant or in the distribution network (including at reservoirs) is progressed without delay. This request was restated in August 2008 by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) who issued a circular to water services authorities recommending the installation of a chlorine monitor and alarm in each public water supply. Under the European Communities (Drinking Water) (No.2) Regulations 2007, the EPA is responsible for the supervision of public water supplies.

The installation of chlorine monitors and alarms on public schemes by water services authorities was one of the measures which led the European Commission to close infringement proceedings against Ireland arising from a European Court of Justice Ruling in 2002 in relation to the quality of drinking water supplies. These proceedings were closed in March 2010.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

46 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the need for an audit by the city local authorities for lead infrastructure in the public water distribution system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22233/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

My Department understands that lead water distribution mains do not constitute a significant portion of the overall supply networks nationwide. At issue are lead connections to individual premises and internal lead plumbing that could affect drinking water quality and, therefore, have public health implications, necessitating replacement of the pipes involved. Only the replacement of lead pipes and connections on the public supply side is eligible for funding from my Department.

Last year, local authorities carried out assessments of needs in response to my Department's request, in July 2009, to the authorities to review and prioritise their proposals for new capital water services works in their areas. As part of those assessments, local authorities were requested to consider the steps necessary to meet the 2013 parametric value for the presence of lead in drinking water, based on the approach outlined by the EPA in its Lead Guidance Circular No. 2 of 21 April 2009, and to formulate proposals, where appropriate, for mains rehabilitation to replace lead connections.

The local authority assessments were a key input to the development of my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas Library. Mains rehabilitation, including the replacement of eligible lead pipes and connections, is a key priority under the new Programme, which will build on existing local authority investment in water conservation by providing for a very substantial scaling up of activity on mains rehabilitation. My aim is to increase substantially investment in water conservation to provide for the commencement of contracts with a value of over €300 million over the next three years. This level of activity will continue to address the problem of lead pipes or connections in public water supply networks. The phasing and funding of mains rehabilitation works for each local authority are set out in the published Programme — information regarding the location of those projects may be had from the relevant local authority.

Genetically Modified Organisms

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

47 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his policy on the growth of genetically modified foods here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22237/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

I am committed to the establishment of a GM free zone in Ireland as set out in the Programme for Government. No GM food products are currently cultivated in Ireland. In respect of the cultivation and sale of GM products, there is a community authorisation procedure in place, enabling the competent authority of each Member State to contribute to the decision-making process. In Ireland, the Environmental Protection Agency is the competent authority. This authorisation procedure, however, also means that, when a product is approved, no geographical restrictions apply within the EU and no additional domestic approval is required.

The European Commission recently announced that it will bring forward a proposal to allow more choice to individual Member States in deciding whether or not to cultivate GMOs in their respective territories. I welcome this initiative, which reflects the clear message conveyed by a number of Member States, including Ireland, that the current system is no longer sufficient and is at odds with the principle of subsidiarity.

Library Services

Jack Wall

Question:

48 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it is his intention that the existing national library service for visually impaired people which is run by the National Council for the Blind of Ireland will be recognised and funded appropriately by his Department in order to provide a service equivalent to that provided to other citizens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22240/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

Several library facilities operated by educational bodies, charities and private organisations do not come within the remit of my Department or the local government sector. These would include the Library operated by National Council for the Blind of Ireland, which, I believe, had a funding relationship with the Health Service Executive. Funding provided by my Department for library services takes the form of capital assistance for construction and fit out of new local authority public libraries and substantial refurbishment of existing local authority public libraries which may include facilities for persons with disabilities. Grant aid is provided as a percentage of the overall cost of the project and is dependent on the funding available each year. My Department also allocates funding to libraries in the local government sector, under the National Disability Strategy, to improve access to library facilities and services for people with disabilities.

Waste Management

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

49 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the roll out of brown bins by local authorities; if he has received updates from local authorities indicating when its roll out will happen; if Ireland is on course to divert sufficient organic waste from landfill in time for the 2010 deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22226/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

Meeting the requirements of the Landfill Directive is a key national priority in respect of waste management and I am committed to implementing the measures necessary to ensure that Ireland meets the 2010, and subsequent, EU landfill diversion targets. Data from the National Waste Report 2008, published by the EPA, show that the quantity of biodegradable municipal waste disposed of to landfill decreased by 19% in 2008 to approximately 1.2 million tonnes, requiring Ireland to divert a further 280,000 tonnes in order to meet the first Landfill Directive target due in July 2010.

A comprehensive circular letter (WPPR 17/08) issued to each local authority in July 2008 requesting that appropriate steps be taken to support an accelerated roll out of segregated collections for organic waste (‘brown bins') both to domestic households and to commercial organisations. Such bins could be provided directly by local authorities where the local authorities remain in the business of waste collection or, alternatively, utilising the existing waste collection permitting system where the service is provided by the private sector. The National Waste Report 2008 provides the latest data in relation to the roll out of the brown bin. The separate kerbside collection of household food and garden waste in brown bins increased substantially from 18,705 tonnes in 2007 to 37,920 tonnes in 2008 and I would expect to see further increases reported for 2009 and into the future.

The number of local authority areas where household brown bin waste was collected at kerbside increased from 13 in 2007 to 16 in 2008 mainly due to private operators offering the service. In December 2009 I signed the Waste Management (Food Waste) Regulations 2009, which are designed to promote the segregation and beneficial use of food waste arising in the commercial sector.

In addition, I increased the landfill levy by the currently permitted annual maximum of €5 per tonne to €25 per tonne in December 2009 and to €30 per tonne from 1 February 2010. This will assist in ensuring that landfill gate fees do not act as a barrier to achieving the diversion targets. Further increases in the landfill levy are being considered in the context of the Environment (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill to be published later this year. Ensuring a supportive framework for the achievement of Landfill Directive requirements is also a key consideration in my Department's work to prepare a new waste policy document, a draft of which I expect to publish for consultation shortly.

Social and Affordable Housing

Róisín Shortall

Question:

50 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the error of failing to provide purchasers under existing affordable housing or shared ownership arrangements the opportunity to re-mortgage or top up their mortgage without triggering the clawback has been corrected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22247/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

I have requested my Department to arrange to have the provisions necessary to address this matter included in the first appropriate legislative vehicle that becomes available.

Planning Issues

Denis Naughten

Question:

51 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to address the lack of planning restrictions on head shops; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22158/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Ciarán Cuffe)

The Government has recently announced its intention to introduce a range of controls on the availability of psychotropic products which are sold in so-called head shops, and is bringing forward specific legislation in this regard. My Department will keep under review the role the planning system might play in addressing this issue, through, for example, a more restrictive use of the change of use provisions under planning legislation or the inclusion of appropriate policies in planning authority development plans.

Carbon Fund

Michael Creed

Question:

52 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it will be possible to allocate some of the €50 million carbon credit fund for investment in on-farm energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22011/10]

Michael Creed

Question:

53 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it will be possible to allocate some of the €50 million carbon credit fund for investment in on-farm energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22064/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 52 and 53 together.

Under the Carbon Fund Act 2007, a carbon fund mechanism was established to facilitate the purchase of carbon units and the National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) was designated as purchasing agent for the State. The cost of carbon units purchased under this mechanism is met by the NTMA from the Central Fund and each drawdown must be reimbursed to the Central Fund in the following year. Provision for such refunds is made in the annual Vote of my Department under subhead D4 and payments from that subhead may only be made for that purpose. As all expenditure incurred by the NTMA in making purchases up to the end of 2009 has been recouped by my Department, there is no surplus under subhead D4.

Departmental Communications

Enda Kenny

Question:

54 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the number of Government websites operated by his Department including agencies under his Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22429/10]

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation (Deputy Batt O’Keeffe)

The information requested by the Deputy in respect of 15 websites provided by my Department is set out in the table below. Information on websites maintained by Agencies of the Department is a day-to-day matter for the Agencies for which I have no function.

	Website Address	Annual Maintenance Cost
		€
1	www.deti.ie (The Department’s website)	5,397
2	www.solvitireland.ie (The website of the problem-solving network created to solve problems that EU citizens or businesses may be experiencing with alleged denial of their Internal Market rights)	4,308
3	www.employmentrights.ie (The website of the National Employment Rights Authority)	7,000
4	www.eatribunal.ie (The website of the Employment Appeals Tribunal)	6,123
5	www.labourcourt.ie (The website for the Labour Court)	27,486
6	www.worklifebalance.ie (The website supporting the National Framework Committee for Work Life Balance Policies.)	2,139
7	www.patentsoffice.ie (The website for the Patents Office)	16,516
8	www.basis.ie (The website developed to provide business with a single access point to all Government information and services.)	65,000
9	www.clrg.org (The website of the Company Law Review Group)	500
10	www.odce.ie (The website of the Office of the Director if Corporate Enforcement)	6,967
11	www.cro.ie (The website of the Companies Registration Office (CRO))	5,000
12	www.core.ie (A document processing environment and communications mechanism of the CRO)	22,891
13	www.pointofsinglecontact.ie (The website of the National Point of Single Contact, which enables service providers, from this or other EU Member States, to complete the procedures and formalities required for access to services activities here as required under the Services Directive [Directive 2006/123/EC].)	4,308
14	https://redundancy.entemp.ie/ (Redundancy calculator)	60,000
		Both systems are hosted on the same infrastructure
15	https://oelas.entemp.ie/ (On-line Export Licensing Application System)

Redundancy Payments

Richard Bruton

Question:

55 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the reason for the delay in awarding redundancy payment in respect of a person (details supplied) from the insolvency fund. [22465/10]

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

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 4 August, 2009. Upon examination of the redundancy claim, it appeared that the individual concerned did not have the required class of social welfare contributions with the company. On that basis, my Department raised a query with the Department Social Protection in relation to the individual's insurance class status. I understand that a decision in this regard is expected shortly. If it emerges that the individual does not have the necessary social welfare contributions with the company, my Department will be obliged to refuse payment of the claim.

Issues relating to the insurability of employees under the Social Welfare Acts must be decided in accordance with the decisions and appeals procedures provided for in the Social Welfare Acts, as administered by the Department of Social and Family Affairs. Where an employee is dissatisfied with a decision as to insurability under these Acts, he or she may appeal this decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office. The contact address is: The Chief Appeals Officer, Social Welfare Appeals Office, D’Olier House, D’Olier Street, Dublin 2. Notice of Appeal forms are available from the Social Welfare Appeals Office or from local offices of the Dept of Social and Family Affairs.

John O'Mahony

Question:

56 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the number of redundancies in 2007, 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010 in County Mayo; his plans to address this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22523/10]

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

I can advise the Deputy that the numbers of redundancy claims lodged with my Department for County Mayo for the years 2007 to 2009 and to date in 2010 are as set out in Table 1. I should caution that these figures reflect the number of employees who actually qualified for statutory redundancy lump sum payments. They do not reflect those who lost their jobs with less than two years service in employment given that these employees would not be eligible for redundancy. Redundancies reflect the turbulence in the labour market that has occurred following the unprecedented global economic downturn. The Government's policies across a range of areas including banking, education and skills, innovation and enterprise development are focussed on supporting our overall national objectives of reducing unemployment, regional development and building the Smart Economy.

Table 1: Number of Redundancy Claims Received for the Years 2007, 2008, 2009 and to Date in 2010 for County Mayo

Year	2007	2008	2009	2010*
Number	357	640	1,177	316

*Provisional figure as at end of April, 2010.

Economic Competitiveness

John O'Mahony

Question:

57 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the steps he will take to prevent further job relocation to lower wage economies; if an evaluation has been done with a view to identification of particular manufacturing areas expected to be vulnerable to relocation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22526/10]

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation (Deputy Batt O’Keeffe)

The relocation of businesses within particular types of industry is a reality of modern global manufacturing for a highly developed economy such as Ireland. There are many factors which influence a firm's decision to relocate. Firms adjust their plant location and utilisation strategies to address matters such as accessing new markets, moving production nearer to customers, meeting firm or market specific customer relationship issues, accessing technology or other competitive considerations. The result is flows of investment and employment across borders. For much of the last decade this type of job "churn" has been positive for Ireland, with companies replacing lower value activities with activities of higher value, resulting in better paid, more highly skilled jobs.

It is not possible to project the extent to which job losses may arise due to firms locating abroad as the decision to relocate is due to many factors, some of which I have already outlined. As a small, open, export led economy, our best response to the realities of globalisation is to ensure that Ireland remains attractive for investment and enterprise growth. Our enterprise support policies have consistently evolved to meet the needs of both foreign direct investment (FDI) and growth–orientated indigenous firms. These policies have enabled us to win many prestigious and value added investments, and have enabled us to replace lost jobs with others of equal or higher value in the economy.

However, there can be no denying that current operating conditions for companies are difficult and challenging due to a number of factors, including global uncertainty in banking and finance, tough competition and the global recession. Some issues are outside the control of Government. Nevertheless, this government has been focussing on the priorities of business, such as energy and labour costs, together with the separate issue of credit availability. We have ensured that Ireland can offer the skills, education, research and innovation capabilities that modern mobile and indigenous firms need to be competitive in world markets. These, combined with a "can do" attitude, an attractive living and business environment, and an active and growing R&D base, will ensure that Ireland remains a location of choice for investment.

Industrial Development

Arthur Morgan

Question:

58 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the progress that has been made to date in implementing the recommendations of the mid-west task force from its interim report of July 2009; the progress that have been made to date in dealing with each of the recommendations in respect of action being taken by his Department in assessing the recommendations and implementing them and the status of each recommendation; the progress that has been made in seeking and restoring Objective 1 status for Raheen Business Park, the National Technology Park and Shannon Free Zone in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22533/10]

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation (Deputy Batt O’Keeffe)

The Task Force completed its Interim Report which was presented to the Tánaiste by the Task Force chairman Mr Denis Brosnan last July. Since then the Government has been responding to the recommendations under the various headings. Last September, the Tánaiste sent the Task Force a report on responses up to that time. Following completion of a cross-departmental consultation, taking account of Ministers' budgets for 2010, with other Ministers and all relevant Divisions and agencies in my Department, the Tánaiste and Minister of State made detailed Statements to the Dáil on 28 January, 2010, on the issue. A summary on responses up to March, 2010, was provided in response to a Parliamentary Question.

The situation in relation to responses is now being updated again and I expect to meet with Mr Brosnan in the next week or so to inform him on the current state of play in relation to the recommendations. I shall also circulate the updated response to Deputies for information. This latest response will provide an update on the extensive multi-agency response which has been under way since the Dell-related job losses were announced, and which was augmented by the funding approved late last year under the EU Globalisation Adjustment Fund.

The agency-delivered response provides information & services to individual employees facing unemployment to facilitate them to re-train, to re-educate or to start a new business, and delivers specific initiatives to indigenous sub-supply companies in the Mid-West to explore alternative markets, products and business opportunities. Services to affected workers are delivered in particular through Fás, EI, CEBs, VECs and the education institutions. The latest update on responses to the recommendations will also contain details of the response to all of the recommendations on Enterprise Development, including responses delivered through IDA, Shannon Development, Enterprise Ireland and the County Enterprise Boards, as well as in relation to grant aid rates and the development of industrial estates in Limerick. It will also give details on the response to the other recommendations in the Task Force Report.

Work Permits

Noel Ahern

Question:

59 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the position regarding a work permit appeal case in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; when this case will be processed: and the reason there is such a delay in the system. [22549/10]

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

I can advise the Deputy that the Appeals Officer in the Employment Permits Section of my Department has been in contact with the employer requesting additional original documentation in relation to the case concerned. On receipt of this information a decision will be made on this appeal. Due to a necessary re-prioritisation of resources within the Department, a significant number of staff in the Employment Permits area were re-deployed to the Redundancy Payments area, where there is a strong need for additional resources to process payments to those who have lost their jobs. This has resulted in delays in the processing of some permit types and appeals. However, the Employment Permits Section is continuing its efforts to try and reduce this backlog within the limits of existing resource allocations.

Redundancy Payments

Olwyn Enright

Question:

60 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a person (details supplied) in County Offaly has not yet received their statutory redundancy payment; when this payment will issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22585/10]

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

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 25 March 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. In relation to Redundancy claims, 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.

Industrial Development

Terence Flanagan

Question:

61 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if he will respond to a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22590/10]

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation (Deputy Batt O’Keeffe)

I am pleased to report that the outcome of the meeting was extremely positive. The takeover company has committed to investments already planned by the acquired company and this investment programme will be implemented over the next two years. The Government and Enterprise Ireland are anxious to explore the strategic role that the acquired company can play in maximizing business growth opportunities for the takeover company. I look forward to assisting the company in whatever way I can in the development of their business operations in Ireland into the future.

National Debt

Joan Burton

Question:

62 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the amount of money spent on servicing the national debt, both in terms of interest payments and capital repayments, in each of the past three years; the estimated debt servicing cost for 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 based on the Department’s latest macro-economic projections; the interest rate assumptions underpinning these estimates; the sensitivity of these forecasts to each basis point change in the interest rate assumptions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22418/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

Expenditure on national debt interest amounted to some €1.6 billion in 2007, some €1.5 billion in 2008 and to some €2.5 billion in 2009. In relation to bond maturities in each of the past three years, the position is set out in the table below.

Bond Maturities 2007-2009

	€m
2007	6,041
2008	31
2009	5,072

Based on the projections for the Exchequer Borrowing Requirement for the years 2010 to 2014 as set out in Budget 2010, the estimated cost of interest on the national debt is approximately €4½ billion in 2010, €5¾ billion in 2011, €6½ billion in 2012, €7½ billion in 2013 and €7¾ billion in 2014. The National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) has advised that, as is usual, these estimates were prepared on the basis of the prevailing market conditions for Irish Government bonds and provide for expectations with regard to market movements over the forecast period. As a technical exercise, the NTMA has estimated that the impact of a 1% increase in Ireland's spread (the premium which Ireland pays over the German 10-year benchmark bond) would be to add approximately €200 million per annum to the full-year cost of funding this year's borrowing requirement of about €20 billion. This additional cost would not only impact in 2010 but would also impact over the medium-term.

The NTMA has targeted a total bond issuance of some €20 billion in 2010. The forecast Exchequer Borrowing Requirement for 2010 is some €18.8 billion and the refinancing requirement is some €1.2 billion. The NTMA had a carryover of more than €5 billion from 2009 into 2010 and as of 18 May 2010 they have raised some €13.2 billion from the bond market, or 66% of the funding target for the year. In addition the NTMA holds large cash balances — currently over €20 billion — which allow it time its long-term issuance to take advantage of opportunities in the bond markets and to avoid periods of volatility.

National Asset Management Agency

Joan Burton

Question:

63 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance his views on recent reports that a significant amount of land owned by local authorities, and loans related to these lands, is being considered for transfer to the National Asset Management Agency; if any such transfer would necessitate amending legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22419/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

NAMA purchases eligible land and development loans and certain associated loans from participating institutions and manages these loans with the intention of generating the best possible return. NAMA does not directly purchase property or land. I am advised by NAMA that there are no local authority loans due for transfer to NAMA from a participating institution. Furthermore, there is no proposal to transfer lands or loans currently held by local authorities to the NAMA. The Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government has indicated their intention to work closely with NAMA in the interests of proper planning and to secure best use of public land.

European Council Meetings

Joan Burton

Question:

64 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding recent EU level meetings of European Ministers for Finance, and the relevant positions adopted by him in these discussions, in respect of economic and fiscal co-ordination within the EU and the eurozone, the establishment of a €750 billion stabilisation fund to support the eurozone, the regulation of hedge funds, private equity, and speculative financial transactions; if any such transfer would necessitate amending legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22420/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

President Van Rompuy's Task Force met for the first time last Friday. I am the Irish representative on the Task Force. The work of the Task Force has only just begun, but there is a willingness by all to consider ways to strengthen the Stability and Growth Pact, and to put in place an effective crisis management mechanism for dealing with the kind of problems we see today in the euro area. Ministers discussed these issues at last Friday's meeting and the general view was that all avenues for improvements that could be advanced quickly should be the focus.

As the Deputy is aware, the thrust of recent discussions in the Ecofin Council is to continue to make progress on a range of urgent and important issues in the economic and financial areas with a view to positioning the EU and euro areas to take advantage of economic recovery according as circumstances improve. Following on from the specific loan facility which has been put in place for Greece, the Ecofin Council decided on 9 May 2010 on a wider and comprehensive package of measures in order, if needed, to financially support Member States which find themselves in difficulties caused by exceptional circumstances beyond their control. The overriding purpose of these measures, which are supported by Ireland, is to safeguard financial stability in the EU and the euro area as a whole. This is vitally important for the EU, the euro area and for Ireland. The support measures consist of:

The European Financial Stabilisation Mechanism based on a Council Regulation under Article 122 of the Treaty and providing up to € 60 billion in loans or credit lines which could be very rapidly mobilised. The Regulation setting up the Mechanism has already been enacted by the Council. Activation of the Mechanism will be subject to strong conditionality, in the context of a joint EU/IMF support. When a Council Decision is made to provide a loan or credit line to a Member State in difficulties, the Commission is empowered on behalf of the European Union to contract the necessary borrowings on the capital markets or with financial institutions.

The European Financial Stability Facility, an intergovernmental agreement under which Euro Area Member States will provide guaranteed loans on a pro-rata basis of up to €440 billion. The Facility which will be set up shortly will provide loans of up to 5-year terms or credit lines via a special purpose vehicle (SPV). As I indicated last week in the course of debate on the Euro Area Loan Facility Bill 2010, which dealt with the position of Greece, further legislation will be required to allow us to participate in the wider financial support mechanism agreed by the Council.

In all cases the costs of each loan, including principal and interest repayment, will be the responsibility of the beneficiary member state. Financial assistance is in all cases to be subject to strong policy conditionality. The IMF have also committed to provide up to a maximum of €250 billion in loans to euro area Member States on a country by country basis, in the manner that the IMF recently agreed a package with the Greek Government.

The proposal for an Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive is aimed at introducing, for the first time, an EU-wide regulatory regime for the managers of alternative funds, such as hedge funds and private equity funds. The proposal would introduce wide-ranging changes to the way in which the managers of these funds conduct their business.

The EU's Finance Ministers reached unanimous agreement on the proposal at the Ecofin meeting on 18 May. The agreed text will now form the basis for negotiations with the European Parliament. However, it was noted that, notwithstanding the unanimity achieved, many Member States still had a number of concerns which they wished to have resolved during the inter-institutional negotiations. In Ireland's case, we had concerns regarding the draft provisions on depositaries, valuators and in regard to the possible impact on venture capital funds and we would hope that the text that is finally agreed would address these concerns. The negotiations between the Council and the European Parliament on the draft Directive are expected to be completed before the end of July with a view to the new regime being in place during 2012.

Pension Provisions

Joan Burton

Question:

65 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the estimate of the potential Exchequer savings on a 2011 and full year basis of reducing the €5.4 million limit on the size of a tax free pension fund to €1million, €2 million, €3 million, €4 million and €5 million; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22421/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I assume the Deputy is referring to the Standard Fund Threshold in respect of which Budget and Finance Act 2006 introduced a maximum allowable pension fund on retirement for tax purposes. A limit of €5 million was placed on the total capital value of pension benefits that an individual can draw upon in their lifetime from tax-relieved pension arrangements. This is known as the Standard Fund Threshold (SFT).

A higher limit (the Personal Fund Threshold — PFT) was also introduced at that time for individuals whose pension fund values exceeded €5 million on the date the SFT was introduced, 7 December 2005. The PFT was deemed necessary on the grounds that those individuals with pension funds in excess of €5 million had built up those funds in good faith over the years while availing of tax reliefs available by reference to the law as it stood prior to the change and it would not have been possible to retrospectively deny them those reliefs. The Finance Act 2006 also introduced indexation for both the SFT and PFT from 2007 onwards in line with an earnings factor. As a result, the value of the SFT for 2008 increased to over €5.4 million. Indexation did not occur in 2009 however.

On the assumption that, as with the Budget 2006 change, any reduced SFT limit would have to take account of the pension funds of individuals that had already been built up legitimately under existing arrangements that would then be above any new limit, any reduction in the SFT would be unlikely of itself to have immediate effects in terms of Exchequer savings.

Tax Code

Joan Burton

Question:

66 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the estimate of the potential Exchequer yield on a 2011 and full year basis of increasing the rate of capital acquisitions tax by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9% and 10%; the potential Exchequer yield on a 2011 and full year basis of reducing the relevant thresholds in each case by 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45% and 50% at both the current rate and at each of the higher rates previously cited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22422/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated full year yield to the Exchequer from increasing the Capital Acquisitions Tax rate by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9% or 10%, based on the Budget estimate of €240 million for 2010, could be in the region of €9.5 million, €19 million, €29 million, €38 million, €48 million, €58 million, €67 million, €77 million, €86 million and €96 million respectively. I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated full year gains to the Exchequer from reducing the thresholds for Capital Acquisitions Tax by the stated amounts are as set out in the following table. These estimates are based on transactions recorded in 2009.

The Exchequer yield in the first year of implementation of any such changes would depend on the timing of the changes. It is assumed in the current estimates that the first year yield would be of the order of 85% of the corresponding full year amounts. It should be noted that these estimates are based upon an assumption that there would be no behavioural impact of the changes, which could lead to a lesser, or in some circumstances, greater than expected impact on Exchequer yield. In addition, the realisation of any estimated yield from an increase in taxation on assets relating to property is subject to movements in the value of such assets, which are currently occurring in the economy.

All thresholds reduced by	Yield at current rate of CAT (25%)	Yield at 26% (1% rate increase)	Yield at 27% (2% rate increase)	Yield at 28% (3% rate increase)	Yield at 29% (4% rate increase)	Yield at 30% (5% rate increase)	Yield at 31% (6% rate increase)	Yield at 32% (7% rate increase)	Yield at 33% (8% rate increase)	Yield at 34% (9% rate increase)	Yield at 35% (10% rate increase)
	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m	€m
5%	10.8	11.2	11.6	12.1	12.5	12.9	13.3	13.8	14.2	14.6	15.1
10%	21.5	22.4	23.3	24.1	25.0	25.8	26.7	27.6	28.4	29.3	30.1
15%	32.3	33.6	34.9	36.2	37.5	38.8	40.0	41.3	42.6	43.9	45.2
20%	43.1	44.8	46.5	48.2	50.0	51.7	53.4	55.1	56.8	58.6	60.3
25%	53.8	56.0	58.1	60.3	62.4	64.6	66.7	68.9	71.1	73.2	75.4
30%	64.6	67.2	69.8	72.3	74.9	77.5	80.1	82.7	85.3	87.8	90.4
35%	75.4	78.4	81.4	84.4	87.4	90.4	93.4	96.5	99.5	102.5	105.5
40%	86.1	89.6	93.0	96.5	99.9	103.3	106.8	110.2	113.7	117.1	120.6
45%	96.9	100.8	104.6	108.5	112.4	116.3	120.1	124.0	127.9	131.8	135.6
50%	107.7	112.0	116.3	120.6	124.9	129.2	133.5	137.8	142.1	146.4	150.7

Departmental Communications

Enda Kenny

Question:

67 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Finance the number of Government websites operated by his Department including agencies under his Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22431/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The following tables list the information requested by the Deputy both in relation to my own Department and bodies under the aegis of my Department.

Department of Finance

Web address and Function	Maintenance costs
www.finance.gov.ieDepartment of Finance web site	€5,800 (exclusive of VAT) for 2009.
www.training.gov.ieprovides information in relation to training matters	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.ppp.gov.ieGovernment Public Private Partnership (PPP) website provides a central point of access to the Public-Private Partnership process in Ireland.	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.decentralisation.gov.ieProvides information in relation to decentralisation programme announced in December 2003.	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.peerreview.gov.ieProvides information in relation to the Peer Review Process and how it is to be applied to major ICT projects in the Irish public sector	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.search.gov.iesearch engine for information on the Irish Government	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.psi.gov.ieThis portal contains links to all specified bodies in Ireland which have obligations under Directive 2003/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the re-use of public sector information.	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.cpmr.gov.ieThe Committee for Public Management Research sponsors research on issues of relevance to the development and management of the Irish Civil and wider Public Service	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.cspvg.gov.ieProvides information on the Civil Service Performance Verification Group.	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.cseas.gov.ieProvides information on matters relating to the Civil Service Employee Assistance Service	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.constructionprocurement.gov.ieProvides information on Construction Procurement	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.foi.gov.ieProvides information on Freedom of Information Matters.	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.bankinginquiry.gov.ieDealing with banking inquiry	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.benchmarking.gov.ieDeals with benchmarking body	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.cmo.gov.ieRelates to the Office of the Chief Medical Officer	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.disability.gov.ieProvides information about the policies and the range of networks that are in place to promote and support the employment of persons with disabilities in the Civil Service	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.ictprocurement.gov.ieInformation Communication Technology Procurement Website	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.reviewbody.gov.ieDeals with the Review Body on Higher Remuneration	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.taxcommission.ieCommission on Taxation web site	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.cspensions.gov.ieIrish Civil Service Pensions Information Centre Website.	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.epronet.gov.ieDeals with eProcurement Network Information	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.gov.ieHolds various information on Irish State	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.personnelcode.gov.ieHolds information on Personnel Code & Circulars	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.budget.gov.ieProvides information on the Budget	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.ndp.ieHolds Information in relation to Irelands National Development Plan.	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house
www.cstdc.gov.ieHolds information and services on the Civil Service Training and Development Centre including e-learning courses and electronic workspaces to support the work of various networks and task forces.	€0 — Hosted and Maintained in-house

Valuation Office

Web address and Function	Maintenance costs
www.valoff.ieIt provides information and online services to the general public and to all Local Authorities	There are no set annual maintenance costs associated with this web site

Public Appointments Service

Web address and Function	Maintenance costs
www.publicjobs.ieIs a portal to a fully integrated recruitment service in regard to jobs in the public service	2009 Annual hardware maintenance on 4 web servers: €4,080 2008/09 Windows Server Enterprise 2003: €1,832

Revenue Commissioners

Web address and Function

Maintenance costs

www.revenue.iewww.ros.ie www.payeanytime.ie www.paye-anytime.ie Provision of tax & customs information and secure online services such as filing tax returns, making tax payments, checking liabilities, claiming tax credits.

These websites are developed, maintained and hosted internally by Revenue. Individual components of the website, as with all equipment and software, are subject to maintenance and licence fees, payable to 3rd party suppliers. Some of these costs include usage elsewhere in Revenue e.g. storage costs. The maintenance costs listed here, which include VAT, are directly attributable to the ongoing operation of the Revenue websites. Firewalls — €10,000 Public Key Infrastructure — €210,000 Servers — €165,000 Application Server software — €53,000 SSL certificates — €11,000 Domain name registration incl. “blocked” URLs — €500. Development tools — €32,000

Commission for Public Service Appointments

Web address and Function	Maintenance costs
www.cpsa.ie Provides service information about the Commission for Public Service Appointments to our customers , to enhance Customer Service and to increase public awareness of the Commission	€350 (approx) per annum.

Office of the Ombudsman

Web address and Function	Maintenance costs
www.oic.gov.ie website of the office of the Information Commissioner www.ombudsman.gov.ie Website of the Office of the Ombudsman www.ocei.gov.ie Website of the Office of the Commissioner for Environmental Information www.sipo.gov.ie Website of the Standards in Public Office Commission	€8,800 in respect of the four web sites

National Treasury Management Agency

Web address and Function	Maintenance costs
www.NTMA.ie Provides information on The National Treasury Management Agency www.NPRF.ie Provides information on the National Pensions Reserve Fund www.Stateclaims.ie Provides information on State Claims Agency. www.NDFA.ie Provides information on The National Development Finance Agency. www.NAMA.ie Provides information on the National Asset Management Agency.	The cost of maintaining, operating and monitoring the five NTMA web sites is €2,457 per annum

Special EU Programmes Body

Web address and Function	Maintenance costs
www.seupb.org Provides information on the Special EU Programmes Body	The Annual Costs of maintaining the SEUPB website are negligible. Any costs incurred relate to the registration of the necessary domain names which are outlined below. Information updates to the website are completed in house.
	Domain Name	Annual Cost (£)
	.ie	£44.00 +VAT
	.eu	£14.99 + VAT
	.org	£34.98 + VAT
	Total cost	£93.97 + VAT
	The Department of Finance (DoF) pays 50% these costs.

I have been informed by the Office of Public Works that they are in the process of collating the information requested by the Deputy and will forward it directly to the Deputy as soon as this process is completed.

Financial Institutions Support Scheme

Joan Burton

Question:

68 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the amount of liabilities covered under the bank guarantee which mature before 1 October 2010, including a breakdown per participating institution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22449/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

As the Deputy will be aware the original Guarantee under the Covered Institutions Financial Support Scheme (CIFS) is due to expire on 29 September. However, a new Guarantee, the eligible Liabilities Guarantee Scheme (ELG) has been introduced. Liabilities guaranteed under ELG are covered up to their maturity date, to a maximum of five years. In addition, customer deposits up to €100,000 are permanently covered under the Deposit Guarantee Scheme. These are not included in the CIFS/ELG figures.

Total liabilities covered under CIFS and ELG stood at €269bn at end March 2010. No new liabilities are being guaranteed under CIFS and eligible liabilities that are new or being "rolled over" fall under ELG. As of end April a total of €188bn was expected to mature before 1 October. This figure assumes demand deposits mature in the first month and notice deposits mature as if notice were given at end April. The Deputy will appreciate that the position of individual covered institutions is highly sensitive commercially and that I have therefore confined my reply to aggregate figures.

Tax Yield

Emmet Stagg

Question:

69 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Finance further to his budget 2010 speech when he stated the yield from the carbon tax will be used to boost energy efficiency, to support rural transport and to alleviate fuel poverty, if progress has been made in ring fencing a percentage to each of the areas identified; and if not, when he anticipates that this will occur. [22481/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

It is estimated that the carbon tax, inclusive of VAT, will yield approximately €250 million in 2010. The revenue will, amongst other things, be used to boost energy efficiency, to support rural transport and to alleviate fuel poverty. 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 decisions which, of course, are dependent on Exchequer revenues. In this regard revenues from the carbon tax will facilitate investment in the aforementioned areas.

Pension Provisions

Róisín Shortall

Question:

70 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance the value of pension pot size at each quartile for those reaching retirement in each of the past ten years based on figures available to the Revenue Commissioners on the value of lump sums taken or based on any other data available to him, the Revenue Commissioners or the Pensions Board. [22486/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The Deputy is seeking data on pension fund values over a 10 year period. In reply I would say that pension fund values cannot be derived from data on retirement lump sum information available to the Revenue Commissioners as data on lump sum payments made by pension fund administrators are not required to be returned to the Revenue Commissioners. Consequently, there is no data available to me from the Revenue Commissioners or the Pensions Board which would enable me to provide the information requested by the Deputy.

Tax Code

Joe McHugh

Question:

71 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Finance if he will meet with the new British Chancellor for official discussion on indirect taxation in advance of the British budget that will be announced soon; if he acknowledges the importance of such bilateralism to enterprise in Ulster and in the Border regions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22501/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

As the Deputy may be aware, I met with the former British Chancellor of the Exchequer, Alastair Darling, over the course of the last year and discussed a range of financial and budgetary matters with him. I also met the current Chancellor George Osborne at the recent meetings in Brussels regarding the Euro and will continue to meet with him and the other European Finance Ministers at the monthly ECOFIN council meetings in Brussels. However, I have no plans to meet the Chancellor over the coming weeks in the context of the UK Budget planned for 22 June. In relation to North-South trade, the Irish Government remains strongly committed to North/South cooperation and we will continue to explore ways in which we can work closely with our colleagues in the North to advance our common interests.

Pension Provisions

Richard Bruton

Question:

72 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the basis on which benchmarking awards were extended to include pensioners; and if he will indicate whether pensioners in An Post are entitled to benchmarking awards that would have applied to parallel grades in the public service under the terms of the act establishing An Post which provided that there should be equivalents in terms and conditions for persons who were transferred to the new bodies. [22516/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

Benchmarking increases were applied to public service pensioners at the time in the light of general policy of linking post-retirement increases in pensions to pay. The Postal and Telecommunications Services Act 1983 provided for the transfer of certain staff from the former Department of Posts and Telegraphs to An Post. The Act also provides for not less favourable conditions in respect of their terms and conditions than those which had applied to them prior to their transfer. The Act does not provide such staff with entitlement to the benefit of subsequent pay increases awarded to civil service and related grades. The Deputy will be aware, that payments to An Post pensioners, are a matter for An Post itself in the first instance. The relevant legislation is under the aegis of the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.

Financial Services Regulation

Richard Bruton

Question:

73 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he has considered any initiative that would forestall the risk that rising mortgage rates might put more people into difficulties with repayments such as, for example, making euro bonds more widely available to banks that could underpin mortgages which tracked the European interest rates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22517/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

Any additional bonds regardless of the currency they are issued in would have to be issued by the NTMA and as with all bonds issued by them would add to our General Government debt. In light of the current Government deficit situation, the Deputy's suggestion would not be an appropriate solution for counteracting the risk of rising mortgage interest rates.

The Deputy will be aware that in February I informed the Government of my proposals regarding expanding the membership of the Interdepartmental Mortgage Arrears Group, under the Chairmanship of Mr. Hugh Cooney. The Group is initially exploring the feasibility of a range of possible options and initiatives for improving the level of mortgage support to homeowners in difficulty. I expect that a final report on this phase of the review will be ready by end June 2010.

It is important that a balance is achieved by Government between influencing private banks through the bank guarantee scheme and other financial support incentives while at the same time being seen to have a hands-off approach to the day to day running of these institutions which must operate on a strictly commercial basis. I have regularly referred to the measures available for those homeowners who find themselves in difficulty. In my Budget speech in December, I refocused mortgage interest relief on those who bought their homes at the peak of the market. Where a homeowner's entitlement to mortgage interest relief would expire in 2010 or after, they will now continue to receive it up to the end of 2017.

The Mortgage Interest Subsidy Scheme under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance system provides money, subject to a means test, towards the interest payments on a home mortgage. This scheme, which is administered by the Community Welfare Service of the HSE on behalf of the Department of Social Protection provides short term support to help pay mortgage interest repayments where the mortgage relates to a person's principal private residence. The number of people now benefiting from the Scheme stands in the region of 15,000. The Scheme is currently under review by the Department of Social Protection to examine ways of improving the operation of the Scheme.

The Deputy will be familiar with the other supports available to homeowners, including the services provided by the Money Advice Budgeting Services (MABS) and the moratorium in the Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears. After my Budget speech in December, I wrote to the Financial Regulator requesting that consideration be given to extending the then 6 month moratorium out to 12 months to ease the burden on mortgage borrowers in arrears. The Financial Regulator, after careful consideration and consultations decided to extend the moratorium to 12 months in line with my request.

Tax Collection

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

74 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the circumstance whereby a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who was informed by their agent to have an entitlement of more than €20,000 refund of tax paid, now finds following an audit wherein numerous allowances have been disallowed, they now appear to have an underpayment of €7,000; if the procedures in respect of allowances have been in any way altered in the current year, the result of which might cause serious difficulties for many small traders and consequent unemployment; if he will indicate to the extent any such changes have taken place; the impact on this and other cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22669/10]

Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the procedures in respect of allowances have not been altered in the current year. Self-Assessment applies in the case of this taxpayer and following an audit deductions incorrectly claimed have been withdrawn.

Hospitals Building Programme

Denis Naughten

Question:

75 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a project (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22416/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

Consultation on the Health Service Executive's draft Capital Plan which sets out the Executive's capital investment proposals over the period 2010-2014 is ongoing between my Department, the HSE and the Department of Finance. Details of the developments included in the plan will be published by the HSE following its approval.

Departmental Communications

Enda Kenny

Question:

76 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of Government websites operated by her Department including agencies under her Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22433/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

Information in relation to my Department's web sites is set out in the table below. The requested details in relation to the agencies under my Department's aegis are not readily available and will be provided to the Deputy when compiled.

Website	Description	Estimated Cost in 2010
		€
DoH&C group sites
www.dohc.ie	Department of Health & Children website
www.cpsqa.ie	Commission on Patient Safety and Quality Assurance website
www.blooddirective.ie	Website for the implementation of the EU Blood Quality and Safety Directive 2002/98/EC
Estimated total cost for DoH&C group websites	These sites are managed as a single contract.	12,000
www.adoptionboard.ie	Adoption Board of Ireland website	800
OMCYA group sites
www.omcya.ie	Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs website
www.comhairlenanog.ie	Provides information on the role and purpose of Comhairle na nÓg and links to all Comhairle na nÓg websites throughout the country
www.childrensdatabase.ie	Provides access to research and information on children for policy-makers, Government departments, academics, voluntary organisations and the general public
www.nprrc.ie	The National Play and Recreation Resource Centre provides information, support and advice on a range of issues affecting the development of children’s play in Ireland
www.ncac.ie	National Children’s Advisory Council website. The mission of the National Children’s Advisory Council is to make a difference to children and young people’s lives, by making childhood and youth a more positive and enjoyable experience for everyone
www.studentcouncil.ie (until mid 2009)	Student Council Second Level Support Service website, the aim of the service is to provide ongoing support for all student council liaison teachers. (now transferred to Dept. of Education and Science)
Estimated cost for OMCYA group sites	All the OMCYA websites, except www.teenspace.ie are managed as a single contact.	10,000
www.teenspace.ie	Teenspace provides information on events, activities and recreation services for young people from 10 to 18	12,500
Estimated total cost for all OMCYA sites	All the OMCYA websites including www.teenspace.ie	22,500
Estimated total cost for all sites 2010		35,300

Nursing Home Accommodation

Catherine Byrne

Question:

77 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children the capacity of a nursing home (details supplied) in County Dublin; the number of residents that are in this home; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22438/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Health and Children (Deputy Áine Brady)

The particular nursing home the Deputy is referring to is a private nursing home and as such I would not have the information requested by the Deputy.

Hospital Services

Michael Ring

Question:

78 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the national spinal injury service in the Mater Hospital, Dublin, is not being specifically funded to provide a national service for all spinal conditions; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a problem in relation to the treatment for people nationally. [22441/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

Decisions on the allocation of resources and the prioritisation of service developments at regional level are a matter for the HSE. I am aware that this issue was the subject of discussions between the Health Service Executive and the Mater Hospital. 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

Richard Bruton

Question:

79 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the average length of time it takes to process a medical card application in the primary care reimbursement service; the average length of time it takes to process appeals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22442/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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.

Youth Services

Tom Hayes

Question:

80 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children when a youth officer will be employed for the Fethard area, County Tipperary; the length of time this application has been in her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22444/10]

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

The Children's and Youth Services Development Unit of my Department received an application for funding on behalf of the Fethard Area Youth Project, to be considered for funding in 2008 under the Special Projects for Youth Scheme but due to the limited funding available and the large number of applications received it was not possible to provide the funding requested. In light of budgetary constraints the emphasis in the 2009 budget for the youth sector was on supporting existing youth programmes and services for young people including those with fewer opportunities. Similarly, in 2010, the focus is on consolidating and maintaining, insofar as possible, the level of existing programmes and services for young people. In that context, the Children's and Youth Services Development Unit is not in a position to consider the application for the Fethard Area referred to by the Deputy.

Hospital Waiting Lists

Tom Hayes

Question:

81 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children the national average waiting time for assessment by a child psychiatrist; the waiting time for children in south Tipperary; if the waiting list of more than two years has been cleared in south Tipperary since the closure of the list; the number of child psychiatrists that are employed in south Tipperary; the number of roles that are currently vacant for child psychiatrists in south Tipperary; if any posts currently await approval for recruitment in south Tipperary; if there are any child occupational therapists employed in south Tipperary or any facilities available to children of this nature in the area under the Health Service Executive; the number of children in south Tipperary that currently await assessment and are awaiting treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22446/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy John Moloney)

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

Róisín Shortall

Question:

82 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the administrative arrangements that are in place for the back to school clothing and footwear allowance; and when the scheme will commence in 2010. [21606/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

I wish to advise the Deputy that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Organ Donation

Michael Kennedy

Question:

83 Deputy Michael Kennedy asked the Minister for Health and Children when further progress will be made regarding organ donation here in view of the fact that new laws are now set to facilitate EU-wide organ donation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22453/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The European Parliament approved a draft directive on 19 May 2010 regarding quality and safety standards for organs intended for transplantation. I welcome this development. The draft directive seeks to ensure that a set of minimum health and safety standards for human organs intended for transplantation is in place in all member states. The aim is firstly, to reduce the risk of infectious diseases being transmitted to the organ recipient and secondly, to enhance the efficiency of exchanging organs between member states. Officials of my Department have participated in the negotiations at Council on this draft directive over the past year. The draft directive will next be considered by the Council of Ministers and, subject to its approval, it is expected to enter into force later in 2010, whereupon all member states will have two years to implement the legislation.

Hospital Services

Denis Naughten

Question:

84 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon will be called for a procedure; the reason for the delay in same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22454/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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. However, I would like to advise the Deputy that the scheduling of patients for hospital treatment is a matter for the consultant concerned in each case and is determined on the basis of clinical need. Should the patient's general practitioner consider that the patient's condition warrants an earlier appointment, he/she would be in the best position to take the matter up with the consultant involved.

Foreign Adoptions

Mary Upton

Question:

85 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the small number of adoptions with Vietnam that are outstanding and that she has agreed to progress; if it is expected that a bilateral agreement with Vietnam will be signed in the near future; when she expects a resolution on this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22487/10]

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

It remains my intention to assist 20 named applicants to complete inter-country 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 inter-country adoption in Vietnam.

The Government decided to suspend indefinitely negotiations on a new bilateral inter-country adoption agreement with the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. This will have the effect of suspending inter-country adoption from Vietnam until such time as the Adoption Bill, 2009 has been enacted and Ireland and Vietnam have both ratified the provisions of the Hague Convention. The Adoption Bill 2009 is currently at Report Stage and I hope will complete its passage through both Houses shortly thereafter.

Medical Cards

Richard Bruton

Question:

86 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children, in assessing the eligibility of persons over 70 for the medical card, the reason for the provision to look at the medical condition and medical expenses of a person whose income exceeds the €700 limit; and if the Health Service Executive has the discretion to grant a card in exceptional medical circumstances. [22491/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

Under the Health Act 2008, a much simplified system of assessment for eligibility was introduced in respect of persons aged 70 or over, based on the significantly higher gross income thresholds rather than the standard net income limits. The gross income thresholds are €700 per week for a single person and €1,400 for a couple, as against net income limits of €201.50 for a single person and €298 for a couple.

Under the net income assessment system, the assessment of eligibility is based on the combined income of an applicant and spouse (where applicable) after tax, PRSI and income levy contributions have been deducted. Additional allowances may be made for rent/mortgage, travel to work and child care costs. However, these would not be a factor for the vast majority of older people. Where an applicant's income is in excess of the net income guidelines, the Health Service Executive (HSE) will take medical issues and expenses into account in determining whether or not "undue hardship" exists. Where a person aged 70 or over does not qualify for a medical card by virtue of their gross income being over the specified thresholds, the HSE will assess if the person qualifies for a medical card or GP visit card under the existing net income thresholds.

Notwithstanding the above, the HSE may issue a medical card on a discretionary basis, if the applicant would otherwise be caused undue hardship in providing general medical and surgical services for himself/herself and any dependants. To assist the HSE in making such a determination, it is necessary for the applicant to provide information about medical issues and expenses.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

87 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the grounds for refusal of the appeal of an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; if an oral hearing will be granted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22494/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

88 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be provided with a hearing test; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22508/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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:

89 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children when an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be determined; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22510/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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.

National Treatment Purchase Fund

Jack Wall

Question:

90 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) will qualify for a hip replacement operation under the National Treatment Purchase Fund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22515/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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.

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.

Rehabilitation Services

Frank Feighan

Question:

91 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure a person (details supplied) who requires treatment in the National Rehabilitation Centre in Dún Laoghaire, County Dublin, will be admitted for treatment. [22522/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy John Moloney)

I regret that due to industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive (HSE), it is not possible for the Executive to supply the information requested. As this matter will be of continuing concern to you, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course. However, given the particular circumstances of this case, I would also recommend that you inform the family of the individual mentioned that it is open to them to contact their local health office directly, to see if this matter can be progressed through the HSE.

Hospital Services

Noel Ahern

Question:

92 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of ear, nose and throat consultants that are attached to Temple Street Hospital, Dublin 1; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a 12 month delay for an ENT outpatient appointment; if she will prioritise the case of a child (details supplied) in Dublin 9; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22553/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As indicated to the Deputy in my previous response, it was not possible to answer the original question due to industrial action. This industrial action currently remains in place and continues to affect the provision of substantive replies to certain Parliamentary Questions. If the matter raised continues to be of concern, it will be necessary for the Deputy to resubmit the original question again when the current industrial action has been resolved.

Medical Cards

Noel Ahern

Question:

93 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the processing of medical card applications; if existing cards are still valid until the renewal process, including appeal, is completed; the reason applications are being refused to persons on basic social welfare payments only; if basic reasoning has been lost in the new system; and the further reason a renewal application in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9 has been refused. [22556/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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

Noel Ahern

Question:

94 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children the services to which patients with multiple sclerosis are entitled; if, in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11, a district nurse will be scheduled to call on them; if health services including o/t are involved in providing or supporting changes to their driveway ramp; if funding has been provided for a special medical bed estimated to cost €3,000; if an amended correct medical card will be provided. [22557/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy John Moloney)

As indicated to the Deputy in my previous response, it was not possible to answer the original question due to industrial action. This industrial action currently remains in place and continues to affect the provision of substantive replies to certain Parliamentary Questions. If the matter raised continues to be of concern, it will be necessary for the Deputy to resubmit the original question again when the current industrial action has been resolved. However, I would also recommend that the Deputy inform the individual mentioned that it is open to them to contact their local health office directly in relation to health services and their local authority in relation to changes to their driveway ramp.

Noel Ahern

Question:

95 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children the psychiatric services that operate on Dublin’s north side; the structural or organisational changes that are currently taking place; the reason a person (details supplied), a patient for six years who has developed confidence with the medical team and physical locations they visited, has been moved to a new team and location; if it is being done due to their medical condition or category, location of their home address or other reason; if it will be arranged that they will be allowed to continue with the team and location they are used to. [22558/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy John Moloney)

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

Noel Ahern

Question:

96 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will examine the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 whose application for an over-70s medical card took ten months to process and who has had medical expenses of €1,817 during the seven months they would have been eligible for a card, having submitted same to the Health Service Executive; if she will arrange a refund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22559/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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.

Noel Ahern

Question:

97 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children if there are any statistics available on the period of time for which medical cards are issued; if only a certain number of cards are now being issued for one year; the reason this is so; the further reasons for such short time provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22560/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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.

Hospitals Building Programme

Emmet Stagg

Question:

98 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children if consideration of the Health Service Executive capital plan for 2010 to 2014 has been concluded; if approval has issued; if phase 3C of Naas General Hospital, County Kildare, is included; and if so, when construction will commence. [22567/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

Consultation on the Health Service Executive's draft Capital Plan which sets out the Executive's capital investment proposals over the period 2010-2014 is ongoing between my Department, the HSE and the Department of Finance. Details of the developments included in the plan will be published by the HSE following its approval.

Accident and Emergency Services

Emmet Stagg

Question:

99 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive has advised her of likely reductions in the provision of 24-7 accident and emergency cover in Naas General Hospital; if she is confident there will be no loss of services at Naas General Hospital in 2010 due to a shortage of junior doctors. [22572/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

I am not aware of any changes to the manner in which emergency services will be delivered at Naas General Hospital. The HSE is anticipating some difficulties in the filling of junior doctor (NCHD) posts in July when doctors begin their new rotation. There are indications of a reduction in applications for posts, especially in emergency medicine, anaesthesia and general medicine. However, the true extent of the shortfall in vacancies will only gradually become clear over the coming weeks. A range of proposals to address the situation if there is a significant increase in unfilled vacancies are currently being worked on by the HSE.

Health Services

Emmet Stagg

Question:

100 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children if there has been further progress in securing a community welfare public office in Naas, County Kildare. [22577/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

101 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that waiting times for hearing tests for children at Newbridge and Tallaght health centres have increased from three to four weeks in June 2006 to 15 to 16 months in 2010; and if she will order the holding of additional clinics to eliminate the waiting lists. [22578/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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 Executive Reports

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

102 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 202 of 7 July 2009, when the outstanding information will issue from the Health Service Executive. [22597/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As indicated to the Deputy in my response to Question No. 434 of 20th April 2010, work on the outstanding information sought by him will resume when the industrial action affecting the Health Service Executive has been resolved.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

103 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 357 of 16 September 2009, when the Health Service Executive report will issue. [22598/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As indicated to the Deputy in my previous response, it was not possible to answer the original question due to industrial action. This industrial action currently remains in place and continues to affect the provision of substantive replies to certain Parliamentary Questions. If the matter raised continues to be of concern, it will be necessary for the Deputy to resubmit the original question again when the current industrial action has been resolved.

Children in Care

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

104 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 162 of 15 October 2009, when the outstanding information will issue from the Health Service Executive. [22599/10]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

105 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 309 of 26 January 2010, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [22600/10]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

110 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 247 of 16 February 2010, when a reply will issue. [22605/10]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

112 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 103 of 22 April 2010, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [22607/10]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 104, 105, 110 and 112 together.

As indicated to the Deputy in my previous response, it was not possible to answer the original question due to industrial action. This industrial action currently remains in place and continues to affect the provision of substantive replies to certain Parliamentary Questions. If the matter raised continues to be of concern, it will be necessary for the Deputy to resubmit the original question again when the current industrial action has been resolved.

Health Services

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

106 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 221 of 3 February 2010, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [22601/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As indicated previously to the Deputy the matter was referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply. However, due to industrial action in the Executive it has not been possible for the Executive to provide a substantive response. If the matter raised continues to be of concern, it will be necessary for the Deputy to resubmit the original question again when the current industrial action has been resolved.

Medical Cards

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

107 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 139 of 4 February 2010, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [22602/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

108 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 140 of 4 February 2010, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [22603/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As indicated previously to the Deputy the matter was referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply. However, due to industrial action in the Executive it has not been possible for the Executive to provide a substantive response. If the matter raised continues to be of concern, it will be necessary for the Deputy to resubmit the original question again when the current industrial action has been resolved.

Medical Cards

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

109 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 144 of 4 February 2010, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [22604/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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 other 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.

Question No. 110 answered with Question No. 104.

Hospital Services

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

111 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 114 of 3 March 2010, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [22606/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As indicated to the Deputy in my previous response, it was not possible to answer the original question due to industrial action. This industrial action currently remains in place and continues to affect the provision of substantive replies to certain Parliamentary Questions. If the matter raised continues to be of concern, it will be necessary for the Deputy to resubmit the original question again when the current industrial action has been resolved.

Question No. 112 answered with Question No. 104.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

113 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a surgery will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22676/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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:

114 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if a reply (details supplied) remains factually correct in its entirety having regard to the question raised at that juncture; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22677/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

I understand the Deputy is referring to Parliamentary Question No. 451, which was raised by him on 16th September 2009, and to a reply which was issued to him by the Executive dated 23rd October 2009. 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 like to invite you to raise it with me again in due course.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

115 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when rheumatology OPD review appointment will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22678/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As indicated to the Deputy in my previous response, it was not possible to answer the original question due to industrial action. This industrial action currently remains in place and continues to affect the provision of substantive replies to certain Parliamentary Questions. If the matter raised continues to be of concern, it will be necessary for the Deputy to resubmit the original question again when the current industrial action has been resolved.

Health Services

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

116 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be accepted onto a drug rehabilitation course; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22679/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

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

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

117 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. [22680/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As indicated to the Deputy in my previous response, it was not possible to answer the original question due to industrial action. This industrial action currently remains in place and continues to affect the provision of substantive replies to certain Parliamentary Questions. If the matter raised continues to be of concern, it will be necessary for the Deputy to resubmit the original question again when the current industrial action has been resolved.

Health Services

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

118 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if provision of extra speech and language sessions will be arranged in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22681/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy John Moloney)

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:

119 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when residential care will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22682/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy John Moloney)

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

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

120 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will be awarded to persons (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22683/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As indicated to the Deputy in my previous responses, it was not possible to answer the original questions due to industrial action. This industrial action currently remains in place and continues to affect the provision of substantive replies to certain Parliamentary Questions. If the matter raised continues to be of concern, it will be necessary for the Deputy to resubmit the original question again when the current industrial action has been resolved.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

121 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. [22684/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As indicated to the Deputy in my previous responses, it was not possible to answer the original questions due to industrial action. This industrial action currently remains in place and continues to affect the provision of substantive replies to certain Parliamentary Questions. If the matter raised continues to be of concern, it will be necessary for the Deputy to resubmit the original question again when the current industrial action has been resolved.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

122 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will issue in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22685/10]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

As indicated to the Deputy in my previous responses, it was not possible to answer the original questions due to industrial action. This industrial action currently remains in place and continues to affect the provision of substantive replies to certain Parliamentary Questions. If the matter raised continues to be of concern, it will be necessary for the Deputy to resubmit the original question again when the current industrial action has been resolved.

Health Services

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

123 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the full extent of support services available to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22688/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy John Moloney)

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.

State Bodies

Joan Burton

Question:

124 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Transport the amount of money spent on bonuses and performance payments for staff, and the number of staff involved, at the Dublin Airport Authority in each of the past three years; the forecast spend on bonuses for 2010 and 2011; the rationale for such payments; and the proportion of staff potentially eligible for such payments which have been refused in each of the past three years for not having met the relevant performance targets or for any other reason. [22423/10]

Minister for Transport (Deputy Noel Dempsey)

With the exception of the Chief Executive of the Dublin Airport Authority whose remuneration, in common with that of all other Chief Executives of State Bodies, is set in accordance with Government guidelines, I have no function with regard to the issues raised by the Deputy.

Departmental Communications

Enda Kenny

Question:

125 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Transport the number of Government websites operated by his Department including agencies under his Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22436/10]

Minister for Transport (Deputy Noel Dempsey)

I refer the Deputy to PQ Ref No: 2246/10 answered on Wednesday, 20th January 2010. Websites operated by agencies under the remit of my Department constitute a day-to-day operational matter for the agencies themselves.

Marine Safety

Joe McHugh

Question:

126 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Transport, further to Parliamentary Question No. 449 of 20 April 2010, if he will outline the decision that his Department has made on this matter; if the Malin Head Coast Guard station upgrades will be made in 2010 or in 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22495/10]

Minister for Transport (Deputy Noel Dempsey)

The testing of the installed Integrated Communications System (ICS) and the training for Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC) staff has commenced. The ICS system is expected to be live by July. The dual operation of the new and old equipment in the Dublin centre will last for at least a four-week period, after which the MRCC function will transfer building later this year. The equipment for Malin and Valentia Marine Rescue Sub co-ordination Centres has been delivered to the Coast Guard Stores and will be activated as soon as possible. It is important that the current ICS systems in Valentia and Malin are not changed until Dublin is complete and connected to all radio sites so that the required redundancy is available. The Office of Public Works report on the adaptation of the buildings in Malin and Valentia to take the new configuration is awaited. It is anticipated that subject to funding work will commence on one of the Centres in late 2010 and on the other building in 2011.

Pension Provisions

Noel Ahern

Question:

127 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the condition of the Dublin Airport Authority pension fund; if any proposal has been submitted by DAA for approval; if his attention has been drawn to the perceived doubtful status of the fund, the fact that pensioners have got no increase for three years and the need for a lump sum injection into the fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22548/10]

Minister for Transport (Deputy Noel Dempsey)

The Irish Airlines (General Employees) Superannuation Scheme is a multi-employer scheme in which the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) is a minority company participant in the scheme. Pension entitlements and pensions in payment under this scheme are primarily matters for the Trustees, the members of the scheme and the companies participating in the scheme. Pension increases are at the discretion of the trustees.

During 2008, the DAA reached agreement with the trade unions representing the majority of staff to establish, subject to the approval of the Ministers for Transport and Finance, certain additional pension arrangements independent of the existing scheme. The two Ministers gave approval in principle to the proposed new pension arrangements in 2009. These proposals would involve an additional DAA scheme to provide enhanced benefits for existing and retired members of the IASS and the establishment of a new hybrid (part defined benefit/part defined contribution) scheme for new recruits.

I am aware of major issues with regard to the asset values of this fund. These are highlighted in the DAA's annual report for 2009. Funding matters, in the first instance, are matters for the Trustees of the Scheme who are preparing funding proposals as required under Pension legislation.

Departmental Communications

Enda Kenny

Question:

128 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Government websites operated by his Department including agencies under his Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22434/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

My Department provides centralised support for 24 websites developed under its IT Shared Service model. Figures recorded in 2009 indicate that there were over one quarter of a million unique visits to my Department's main site (www.justice.ie) and over a half a million unique visits to the website of the Irish Naturalisation & Immigration Service (www.inis.gov.ie). Individual visits are not recorded for all sites.

Hosting and related charges for these sites in 2009 came to €38,408. Other costs, such as staff time spent maintaining the site content which forms part of the day to day work of the Department, are not separately accounted for. Websites are an essential communications tool for any modern organisation in providing essential customer services. As part of the Shared Service model, websites are developed and maintained based on reusable templates. This approach has led to a reduction in the cost and effort of setting up and supporting websites.

Departmental Records

Michael Kennedy

Question:

129 Deputy Michael Kennedy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason his Department does not have records of girls referred to Magdalene laundries, in view of the facts that the Department of Education and Skills acknowledges that girls were placed in Magdalene laundries as late as 1970 and that the Department of Health and Children paid capitation grants for problem girls who were sent to Magdalene laundries as late as 1977; if his attention has been drawn to where such records might be held in either Government Departments, Government agencies or other bodies public or private; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22443/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The majority of females who entered or were placed in Magdalen Laundries in the period did so without any direct involvement of the State. Magdalen laundries were not State institutions and their records are a matter for the individual religious congregations concerned.

A small proportion of entrants to Magdalen Laundries came through the criminal justice system. While my Department, therefore, does not hold records that would show the total number of women who were sent to Magdalen Laundries, there are court records dealing with those cases involving female offenders where it was a condition that the offender reside in a particular institution including Magdalen laundries for a specified period. These records are not maintained in a manner that allows records relating to Magdalen laundries to be easily extracted. There are also incomplete records relating to the remand of 16-21 year old females charged with criminal offences to St Mary Magdalen's Asylum, Sean McDermott Street in the period 1960 to 1980 pending trial.

As regards records that might be held by other Departments or agencies, the Deputy will be aware that the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste, myself and other Ministers met with various groups representing survivors of residential institutions for children on the 15th April last. The position of the women who had spent time in Magdalen Laundries was raised by representatives of some victims' groups. At that meeting the Taoiseach, on behalf of the Government, stated that Government Departments and Agencies would be willing to help with further enquiries in relation to those persons sent to Magdalen Laundries, including, where available, access to files etc., to the greatest extent possible.

Garda Recruitment

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

130 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the next recruitment will take place for An Garda Síochána; if the recruits will be taken from the panel established in 2008; the number that will be called for training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22479/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that applicants selected by the Public Appointments Service and who have successfully undergone a Physical Competency Test, a Medical Examination and also Character Vetting will remain on a panel and are available to be offered positions as Garda Trainees in a future intake.

Garda Deployment

Emmet Stagg

Question:

131 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí in each Garda division on 30 April 2010. [22579/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of each Garda Division as at 30 April 2010 was as set out as follows:

Divisional strength as at 30 April 2010

Division	Strength	Division	Strength	Division	Strength
DMR South Central	780	Tipperary	400	Sligo/Leitrim	324
DMR North Central	719	Cork City	696	Clare	332
DMR North	825	Cork North	307	Mayo	321
DMR East	476	Cork West	312	Galway	601
DMR South	640	Kerry	343	Roscommon/Longford	296
DMR West	794	Limerick	647	Westmeath	261
Kilkenny/Carlow	320	Donegal	472	Meath	314
Wicklow	361	Cavan/Monaghan	409	Kildare	331
Laois/Offaly	332	Louth	314	Waterford	305
Wexford	288

Asylum Applications

Brian O'Shea

Question:

132 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the residency application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22586/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The person concerned applied for asylum on 5 October 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 31 August 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.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

133 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made to date and the procedure to be followed in the case of an application for residency and leave to remain in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22589/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I refer the Deputy to my detailed Reply to his recent Parliamentary Question, No. 341 of Tuesday, 18 May 2010, in this matter. The position in the State of the person concerned is as set out in that Reply.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

134 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for subsidiary protection in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22617/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The person concerned applied for asylum on 6 October 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 30 June 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. Representations were received on behalf of the person concerned.

Following consideration of these representations, under 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, it was decided to not issue a Deportation Order in respect of the person concerned. Instead, the person concerned was granted Leave to Remain in the State for a three year period to 24 March 2012. This decision was conveyed in writing to the person concerned by letter dated 23 March 2009.

On 29 May 2009 the legal representative of the person concerned advised my Department that they had, on their client's behalf, lodged an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State. In response, my Department advised that legal representative that as their client had been granted permission to remain in the State, he was not entitled to apply for Subsidiary Protection. However, as an exceptional measure, my Department agreed to consider an application under Regulation 4(2) of the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 i.e. a formal request to the Minister that he exercise his discretion to facilitate the consideration of an application for Subsidiary Protection.

The Regulation 4(2) request was approved, and the person concerned was considered for Subsidiary Protection. Following consideration of this application, it was determined that the person concerned was not eligible for Subsidiary Protection. The person concerned was notified of this decision by letter dated 25 January 2010. The Deputy might wish to note that this negative decision has no impact on the existing status of the person concerned i.e. he still has permission to remain in the State, subject to stated conditions, until 24 March 2012.

Visa Applications

Brian O'Shea

Question:

135 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a person (details supplied) in County Waterford who has two Irish-born children can have their parents who are non-EEA citizens stay with them on a regular basis to assist with looking after the children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22624/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I have been informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS), that it is the policy of my Department not to extend a permission to remain to persons who are admitted for a period of 90 days or less on a short stay visit, save in very exceptional and unforeseen circumstances. The reason for that policy is that an extension of visitor's permission should not generally arise in circumstances where the person has accurately and fully disclosed their purpose for intending to come to the State at the visa application stage and/or to the immigration officer at the port of entry. Where exceptional and unforeseen circumstances arise, the person may contact my Department to seek to extend their permission to remain.

Where the person seeking a change of status is of a nationality that is not visa required, some additional latitude may be applied on a case by case basis where that person's circumstances have changed since their arrival in the State. It is open to the person referred to in the Deputy's question to contact the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service at 13/14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2 setting out the case.

Residency Permits

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

136 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency, citizenship or naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22638/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The person concerned was granted permission to remain in the State for a three year period to 14 August 2010. This decision was conveyed to the person concerned by letter dated 14 August 2007. The person concerned will be required to apply for the renewal of this permission one month before her current permission expires.

Citizenship Applications

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

137 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason no reference was made by him to the referral to his office on 26 January 2010 by this Deputy of a new application in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; if this application has yet been opened or studied; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22639/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

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, 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, such correspondence should be submitted to the Citizenship Division of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service, Heffernan House, Dundrum Road, Tipperary Town, Co. Tipperary.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

138 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 2; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22640/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

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 August 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.

Deportation Orders

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

139 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22642/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

It is noted that the address of the person concerned as supplied by the Deputy does not match the address currently on record for the person concerned. As it is incumbent on an applicant to notify my Department when they change address it would be in the best interest of the person concerned to inform my Department of his correct address without delay.

The person concerned is the subject of a Deportation Order following a comprehensive and thorough examination of his asylum claim and of his application to remain temporarily in the State. He has been evading his deportation since September 2009 and should he come to the notice of the Gardaí, he would be liable to arrest and detention. He should, therefore, present himself to the Garda National Immigration Bureau without any further delay.

Visa Applications

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

140 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 338 of 18 May 2010, whether the question raised was the position regarding an application for family reunification or if a letter had issued to a person referred to, in view of the fact that the question was in the former context and the reply in the latter; if he will now indicate the current position and history to date in respect of all details of correspondence in nature and context since 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22644/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I am informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that the reply provided in response to the Deputy's previous Parliamentary Question (No. 338 of 18th May) sets out the current position in respect of the Family Reunification application of the person referred to by the Deputy. The position with the application is as advised in previous replies to Parliamentary Questions from the Deputy. I am further informed by INIS that the current position of the application is as advised in the letter issued to the applicant on 20th April 2010. On receipt of a response to this letter the case will be considered further by INIS.

Residency Permits

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

141 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the procedure to be followed and the progress made to date in the case of application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22645/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I have been informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that an application was received from the person referred to by the Deputy on 9 April 2010 seeking to register their son in the State. A response was sent in writing to the person concerned on 27 April 2010, informing them to register their son at their local immigration office.

Asylum Applications

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

142 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected position in the matter of residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22646/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I wish to inform the Deputy that the first named person in question was granted permission to remain in the State under the IBC/05 scheme in 2005. This permission was renewed in 2007 and is currently valid up to 7 December 2010. The first named person concerned should present to her local immigration officer 2 weeks before that date for registration of her future permission to remain in the State. The second named person arrived in the State in 1997 in the company of his mother and siblings and was included as a child dependant in his mother's unsuccessful asylum application. The then Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform signed a Deportation Order in respect of him on 6 June 2002, which was later revoked.

The second named person was, by letter dated 31 March 2009, advised that as he had no legal basis to remain in the State, the Minister was proposing to make a Deportation Order in respect of him and advised him of the options open to him at that point in time which were to leave the State voluntarily, to consent to deportation or to submit, within a period of 15 working days, written representations setting out reasons as to why a Deportation Order should not be made against him. Representations have been received from the second named person.

The position in the State of the second named person will now 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.

Residency Permits

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

143 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the circumstances whereby a deportation order has been issued in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare in view of the fact that the person has lived and worked in this country for nine years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22647/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I refer the Deputy to my detailed Reply to his recent Parliamentary Question, No. 126 of Thursday, 20 May 2010, in this matter. The position in the State of the person concerned is as set out in that Reply. The Deputy will note from that Reply that no Deportation Order has issued in respect of the person concerned.

Citizenship Applications

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

144 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected position in the matter of an application for citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in view of the fact that all details have been submitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22648/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

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 December 2002 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 25th June, 2008. 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.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

145 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected position in the matter of an application for citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in view of the fact that all details have been submitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22649/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

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 December 2002 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 25th June, 2008. 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.

Asylum Applications

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

146 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 1; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22650/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The person concerned applied for asylum on 28 September 2004. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until her application for asylum was decided. Her asylum application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.

Arising from the refusal of her 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 30 January 2009, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of her. She 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 her. In addition, she was notified of her 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.

Residency Permits

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

147 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current intended or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22651/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The person concerned applied for asylum on 10 February 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 30 January 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. Representations were received on behalf of the person concerned at that time and subsequently. The person concerned was later 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 position in the State of the person concerned will now 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.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

148 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the sequence of events to date and progress in the matter of application for residency and leave to remain in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22652/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The person concerned applied for asylum on 16 October 2007. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until her application for asylum was decided. Her asylum application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.

Arising from the refusal of her 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 12 February 2010, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of her. She 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 her. In addition, she was notified of her 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). Representations were received on behalf of the person concerned.

The position in the State of the person concerned will now 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.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

149 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if all aspects and circumstances have been examined in the case of an application for residency and leave to remain in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22653/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The person concerned applied for asylum on 29 April 2008. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until her application for asylum was decided. Her asylum application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.

Arising from the refusal of her 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 12 November 2009, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of her. She 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 her. In addition, she was notified of her 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. The Deputy will appreciate that as the subsidiary protection and ‘leave to remain' aspects of the case of the person concerned are still ‘pending', not all aspects of her case have yet been examined.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

150 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the procedure and progress to date in the determination of an application for residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; if any of the procedures have been affected by decisions in the courts or change of policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22654/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The person concerned applied for asylum on 9 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 her application for asylum was decided. Her asylum application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.

Arising from the refusal of her 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 26 October 2005, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of her. She 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 her. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned. The position in the State of the person concerned will now 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.

The procedures and legislative basis for dealing with cases such as that of the person concerned are not directly affected by any recent decision in the Courts. However, the Deputy can be assured that all aspects of the case of the person concerned will get the fullest consideration before a final decision is arrived at.

Citizenship Applications

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

151 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the procedure and progress to date in the matter of an application for citizenship in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22655/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

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.

Residency Permits

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

152 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency and leave to remain in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22656/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I refer the Deputy to my detailed Reply to his earlier Parliamentary Question, No. 278 of Tuesday, 17 November 2009, and the written Reply to that Question. The position in the State of the person concerned now falls to 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.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

153 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency and family reunification in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22657/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The person concerned applied for asylum on 12 September 2006. 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 14 February 2008, and amended letter dated 4 April 2008, 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.

The Deputy might wish to note that there is no record in my Department of an application in respect of the brother of the person concerned, either for residency or under family reunification. The Deputy might also wish to note that the current position in the State of the person concerned is not such as would enable him to make an application for family reunification for his brother, or indeed any other member of his family. Access to family reunification is confined to persons recognised as refugees or with subsidiary protection status.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

154 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency and family reunification in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22658/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The person concerned applied for asylum on 25 March 2009. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until her application for asylum was decided. Her asylum application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.

Arising from the refusal of her 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 25 January 2010, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of her. She 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 her. In addition, she was notified of her 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.

The Deputy might wish to note that the current position in the State of the person concerned is not such as would enable her to make an application for family reunification for her sister, or indeed any other member of her family. Access to family reunification is confined to persons recognised as refugees or with subsidiary protection status.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

155 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for leave to remain and extended residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22659/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The person concerned applied for asylum on 14 August 2006. 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 28 December 2007, 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.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

156 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for leave to remain and extended residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22660/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I refer the Deputy to my detailed reply to his earlier Parliamentary Question No. 295 of Tuesday, 17 November 2009, and the written Reply to that Question. The person concerned now falls to be considered for Subsidiary Protection in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006) 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.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

157 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress to date in the assessment of application for extended residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22661/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I refer the Deputy to my detailed reply to his earlier Parliamentary Question No. 545 of Tuesday, 20 April 2010, in this matter. The position in the State of the person concerned is as set out in that Reply.

Citizenship Applications

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

158 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress to date in respect of an application for citizenship in the case of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22662/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

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 April 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. However, I understand that the person concerned is a refugee. In accordance with the Government's obligations under the United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, every effort is made to ensure that applications from persons with refugee status are dealt with as quickly as possible. 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.

In the absence of more specific details in relation to the brother of the person referred to in the Deputy's Question, I regret that it is not possible to provide information in respect of that person. If the Deputy wishes to re-submit his Question with a relevant reference number, I would be happy to provide the requested information.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

159 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made to date in an application for citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22663/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

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 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.

However, I understand that the person concerned is a refugee. In accordance with the Government's obligations under the United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, every effort is made to ensure that applications from persons with refugee status are dealt with as quickly as possible. 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. My officials inform me that, based on the limited information available, there is no record of an application for a certificate of naturalisation in respect of the wife or child of the person concerned.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

160 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when an application for citizenship is likely to be completed in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22664/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

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 November 2006. 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.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

161 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress and sequence of events to date in the determination of residency and citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22665/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I wish to inform the Deputy that the person in question has current permission to remain in the State. This permission was initially granted in 2000 under the scheme then in place for the non-EEA parents of Irish born children and has been renewed on a number of occasions since then. His current permission to remain expires on 3rd December, 2010.

A valid application for a certificate of naturalisation was received from the person in question in the Citizenship Division of my Department in January 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 15 October, 2009. It is open to the person in question 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.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

162 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will set out the progress and sequence of events to date in the determination of residency and citizenship or other in the case of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22666/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The person concerned applied for asylum on 16 April 2003. 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.

Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 16 August 2005, 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 he should not have a Deportation Order made against him. Representations were submitted on behalf of the person concerned at that time.

Following consideration of these representations, under 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, it was decided not to issue a Deportation Order in respect of the person concerned. Instead, he was granted Leave to Remain in the State for the period to 20 March 2010. This decision was conveyed in writing to the person concerned by letter dated 21 October 2009. The person concerned is required to apply in writing for the renewal of this permission. As my Department's records show no evidence of such a renewal application having been made to date, it is recommended that the person concerned should do so without further delay.

Residency Permits

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

163 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current residency and citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22667/10]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

I refer the Deputy to the Reply given to his Parliamentary Question No. 831 on Wednesday 24 September 2008. The status of the person concerned remains as set out in that Reply. The person concerned has continued to meet his presentation requirements with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB). The enforcement of the Deportation Order is an operational matter for the GNIB.

Departmental Communications

Enda Kenny

Question:

164 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of Government websites operated by his Department including agencies under his Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22432/10]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Deputy Micheál Martin)

My Department currently operates six websites for which costs are set out below. The costs include support & maintenance, hosting and domain registration services.

Website	Cost of Maintaining Sites for 2010 (inc VAT)
	€
Department of Foreign Affairs family of websites including 68 Embassy websites	€59,075
Irish Aid family of websites	€32,435
Dublin Cluster Munitions Conference website	€528
Africa Day 2010 website	€600
Communicating Europe Initiative website	€1,550
Global Irish Economic Forum website	€695

Passport Applications

Joe McHugh

Question:

165 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs, further to his comments in Dáil Éireann on 20 May 2010, if he will comment on his Department’s plans to deliver a passport office to the north west of Ireland; if he will identify when this passport office will be delivered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22493/10]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Deputy Micheál Martin)

As I indicated on 20 May last I have identified the necessity to examine further contingency arrangements for passport production. This could include the provision of passport production equipment in the North West and the South of the country. I have asked my officials to examine the feasibility of providing this service. However, as the examination is at a very early stage it is premature to confirm if or when a passport office might be opened in the North West. As of now and into the future, passport applications can be submitted through the Passport Express Service available at Post Offices across the North West and throughout the country.

North-South Consultative Forum

Joe McHugh

Question:

166 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the work that his Department is currently undertaking to develop the North South Consultative Forum that is envisaged in recent British-Irish bilateral agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22498/10]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Deputy Micheál Martin)

The establishment of the North/South Consultative Forum, provided for in both the Good Friday Agreement and the St. Andrews Agreement, has been discussed with the Northern Ireland Executive at all the plenary meetings of the North/South Ministerial Council since the re-establishment of the Executive in May 2007. At those meetings, the Government delegation is led by the Taoiseach, while the Northern Ireland Executive delegation is led by the First Minister and deputy First Minister. The plenary meeting in July 2007 noted the intention of the Northern Ireland Executive first to complete its review of the Northern Ireland Civic Forum, a body provided for in the Good Friday Agreement for consulting civic society in Northern Ireland. That review is still outstanding.

During 2008, the Government consulted with the social partners and various cross-Border and North/South groups on the establishment of the Consultative Forum. Following on from this we formally communicated our proposals to the Northern Ireland Executive on the role, format, membership and operation of the Forum.

On 15 October 2009, as a contribution to the process leading to the establishment of the Forum, the Government facilitated a consultative conference in Farmleigh involving the social partners and other civil society groups from across the island. The conference was opened by the Taoiseach. Participants from across the island came from all traditions, including representatives from business, the trade union movement, agriculture and the community and voluntary sector. There was a wide ranging discussion on the role of civil society and its capacity to contribute meaningfully to cross-Border co-operation. There was strong support for further such engagement to explore specific areas for co-operation, North and South, at the level of civil society.

Following on from the October event, and to contribute further to the process leading to the establishment of the Consultative Forum, a second consultative conference took place in Dublin, yesterday, 26 May. As on the occasion in October last, the event was well attended, with over one hundred representatives from civil society from both parts of the island in attendance. There were two panel discussions on the key themes of the conference; sport and young people, and the role that innovation can play in economic recovery, North and South. There was further strong endorsement for continuing engagement between representatives of civil society, North and South. The establishment of the formal North South Consultative Forum will be further discussed at the next plenary meeting of the NSMC, scheduled for 5 July 2010. We will press strongly to have the matter brought to an early conclusion.

Human Rights Issues

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

167 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will comment on the recent unlawful killing of a person (details supplied) in Mexico, a human rights activist with links to Ireland; if this has been looked into by his Department; if he has raised the matter with his Mexican counterpart as well as with the Mexican Ambassador in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22519/10]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Deputy Micheál Martin)

The situation to which the Deputy refers concerns the attack on a humanitarian convoy in San Juan Copola, Oaxaca, on 27 April, in which a Mexican human rights defender, Ms Beatriz Carino and a Finnish observer, Mr Tyri Antero Jaakkola were killed by paramilitaries. Several other Human Rights Defenders and journalists suffered injuries. Ms Carino was a speaker at the Frontline 5th Dublin Platform Conference for Human Rights Defenders in February of this year. I wish to take this opportunity to extend my sympathies to her family and that of Mr Jaakkola.

I welcome the statement made on 3 May by the Spanish Presidency of the EU on behalf of EU Member States, which condemned the attack and called on the relevant authorities to do everything possible to identify, arrest and convict those responsible for the attack as well as taking all necessary measures to protect Human Rights Defenders in Mexico. I note also the statement on 12 May by four UN Special Rapporteurs on this case (the Special Rapporteur on the situation of Human Rights Defenders; the Special Rapporteur on Summary, Extrajudicial or Arbitrary Executions; the Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms of Indigenous People and the Special Rapporteur on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights to Freedom of Opinion and Expression). I share their concern that the situation in some parts of Mexico is extremely complex and that the difficulties faced by the Mexican Government, including in the context of its fight against drugs cartels, are very serious. While Mexico has taken significant steps in promoting respect for human rights, considerable challenges remain to be addressed, in particular at state level. There is no justification for failing to take strong steps when Human Rights Defenders are killed. To that end, I welcome the investigation set up by the Mexican authorities into the incident at San Juan Copala.

I have asked our Ambassador to Mexico to inform the Mexican authorities of the interest with which the Government, members of the Oireachtas and the NGO community are following this case, given Ms Carino's connection to Ireland and her participation in the recent Frontline Conference. Ireland, together with our European Union partners, monitors and engages with the Mexican authorities on the human rights situation in Mexico and the fulfilment of Mexico's human rights obligations under international law. As part of this process, the first meeting of a recently established EU-Mexico Human Rights Dialogue took place in Mexico City on 12 May. With our EU partners, we will continue to engage in dialogue with the Mexican authorities at both federal and state level.

Passport Applications

James Reilly

Question:

168 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will intervene to ensure a person (details supplied) has passports for their children in time for them to travel on 29 May 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22521/10]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Deputy Micheál Martin)

I am happy to inform the Deputy that both passports were collected from the Passport Office in Molesworth Street on 25 May.

Child Abductions

Noel Ahern

Question:

169 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding the case of an Irish citizen who has been abducted to Hungary and despite Supreme Court cases there ordering return of the child, the child is still missing; the progress made to date to pursue matters at political, diplomatic and EU level; the action he has taken to recover this child; if this matter has been raised directly with his Hungarian counterpart at EU ministerial meetings; the further action he is now proposing and if he will file a third party observation at the European Court of Human Rights to the father’s case indicating our concern and belief that the child is in imminent danger; if he will take a case to the European Court of Justice; the action he will take to uphold and enforce court judgments ordering the return of the child to their father. [22547/10]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Deputy Micheál Martin)

I have been following developments closely in this case since the Irish citizen was abducted from France to Hungary in contravention of a custody order of a French Court. My officials, both in Dublin and in the Embassy in Budapest have been in regular contact with the father of the Irish citizen concerning this case. Diplomatic staff in our Embassy in Budapest, have met with the relevant authorities in Hungary on numerous occasions to raise our concerns.

Following the abduction of the child from France to Hungary, the father initiated legal proceedings in Hungary, in early 2008, under The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction to have the child returned to France her country of habitual residence.

Following the completion of legal proceedings in Hungary in July 2009, a bailiff was granted powers including police assistance to enforce an Order of the Hungarian High Court compelling the mother to hand over the child to her father. On 29 July 2009, when the bailiff went to a house in the village of Boconad in order to enforce the Order, he found that the mother had absconded with the child. Diplomatic staff from our Embassy and from the Embassy of France in Budapest were present in Boconad on that occasion to observe proceedings and provide consular assistance. The Hungarian authorities subsequently issued a search warrant in respect of the mother but to date neither she nor the child have been found. On the evening of 28 October 2009, a diplomatic officer from the Embassy travelled at short notice to the town of Eger following a tip off to the child's father that his ex-wife and daughter had been living there. The bailiff and officials from the French Embassy were also present. The bailiff carried out a search but despite the information passed to the father, the child could not be located at the address indicated

I wrote to the Hungarian Foreign Minister on 29 September 2009 and urged that the Hungarian authorities take all appropriate action to locate the child with a view to enforcing the Court Order. The Hungarian Foreign Minister has requested the Minister of Justice and Law Enforcement, who is responsible in Hungary for child abduction cases, to ensure that this case is handled with proper care and maximum attention. In February, officials from my Department raised the case with Hungarian State Secretary Czukor when he visited Dublin. The State Secretary gave an assurance that every effort would be made to find the missing child and that the Hungarian authorities were very concerned about the child's welfare.

I have also been in contact with my French counterpart Mr. Bernard Kouchner concerning this case. Our Embassy in Paris has been in touch with the Office for International Co-operation in Civil and Commercial Matters, in the Ministry of Justice of France. Last week a diplomat from the Irish Embassy in Paris met with officials from that Office to discuss this case and to seek their continued assistance in ensuring the return of the child. The French officials confirmed that they had been in touch with the Hungarian counterparts on numerous occasions in relation to this case. We have also recently requested Minister Ahern to raise this case with his Hungarian counterpart the next occasion he has an opportunity to meet him.

In relation to the father's case before the European Court of Human Rights, there is no facility to submit written comments unless invited to do so by the Court. The Government has not received any invitation from the Court to submit written comments concerning this case. In the event of receipt of any invitation, consideration will be given to submitting written comments. Any possible proceedings before the European Court of Justice in relation to this matter would be a matter for the Department for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

In the final analysis, it is for the Hungarian authorities to enforce the custody judgment of the French Court under the Hague Convention. We will continue to urge them to pursue the case vigorously but we are not in a position ourselves to execute the court order.

Departmental Communications

Enda Kenny

Question:

170 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the number of Government websites operated by her Department including agencies under her Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22437/10]

Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport provides four websites and the following are the details for each:

1.Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport website

Website address: www.tcs.gov.ie Annual maintenance cost in 2009 €4,839.25

2.National Archives of Ireland website and 1911 Census Search facility

Website address: www.nationalarchives.ie Annual maintenance cost in 2009 €49,175 (This cost includes €10,700 for the main National Archives site and €38,500 for the 1901-1911 Census of Ireland Online site. The Census site search application covers a large database and comprises 8 servers in total and data storage units hosted in a commercial data centre. The site also requires high level bandwidth to the National Archives and to the internet for WWW users to access the site.)

3.Irish Genealogy website and the Church Records Search facility

Website address: www.irishgenealogy.ie Annual maintenance cost in 2009 €3,831.50

4.Culture Ireland website

Website address: www.cultureireland.gov.ie Annual maintenance cost in 2009 €9,483.50 The agencies that come under the aegis of the Department are statutorily independent and are responsible for their own websites.

Departmental Reports

Mary Upton

Question:

171 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, further to Parliamentary Question No. 173 of 19 May 2010, when she expects to receive the report from the audiovisual content production industry strategy framework group; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22489/10]

Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

Work on the preparation of the report by the Audiovisual Content Production Industry Strategy Framework Group is ongoing and it is anticipated that it should be completed by 30 September, 2010.

Irish Language

Brian O'Shea

Question:

172 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount of money provided by the State regarding Irish language being made an official language of the EU from January 2007 to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22588/10]

Brian O'Shea

Question:

177 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount of money spent on the advanced Irish skills initiative since 2006 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22594/10]

Brian O'Shea

Question:

178 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if there was a means test regarding eligibility for stipend and accommodation expenses in regard to the 16 week intensive course set up under the advanced Irish language skills initiative for lawyers (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22595/10]

Brian O'Shea

Question:

179 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of persons hired by EU institutions regarding Irish being made an official language of the EU in January 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22596/10]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Pat Carey)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 172 and 177 to 179, inclusive, together.

Firstly, I wish to refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 98 of 6 Bealtaine 2010, in which I indicated that the recognition of Irish as an official working language of the European Union with effect from 1 January 2007 presented the EU Institutions with a significant recruitment challenge. The Government took a number of steps to assist the EU Institutions in meeting this challenge and to ensure the availability of sufficient numbers of qualified personnel to support the new status of Irish at the EU. These steps included the establishment in 2006 of a dedicated fund — the Advanced Irish Languages Skills Initiative — to provide funding for specialised Irish language third-level courses and support for translation of EU terminology into Irish.

The Advanced Skills Initiative was put in place in order to increase the number of professionals with the necessary skills in the context of the requirements arising from the new status of Irish at the EU and also from the ongoing implementation at home of the Official Languages Act 2003. The fund is administered by my Department in conjunction with the Higher Education Authority. By the end of 2009, a total of eight full-time courses and two intensive short-term courses provided by various institutions were in operation.

The table below sets out the level of funding provided by my Department for each year since 2006 on these educational initiatives and in support of translation of EU terminology into Irish.

Year	Advanced Irish Languages Skills Initiative	Translation of EU terminology into Irish
	€m	€
2006	0.034	—
2007	0.461	71,789
2008	1.373	387,046
2009	2.234	368,001
2010 (est.)	1.283	364,807

In relation to the stipends and accommodation expenses paid to students who participated in the 16 week intensive course for qualified lawyers referred to by the Deputy, no means test applied, but applications were assessed by the institutions concerned. As the Deputy will be aware, there was an urgent need to ensure that lawyer-linguists proficient in Irish became available as speedily as possible. It was in this context that it was agreed that each participant on the course would be paid a stipend, as well as accommodation expenses in the case of participants based outside Dublin. The payment of a stipend was intended to help compensate participants who would be unable to work while attending this full-time course. I wish also to again reiterate that the relevant institution provided my Department with detailed information in relation to the participants who qualified for accommodation costs, prior to funding being made available in this regard.

Finally, I am advised that the number of persons recruited by the EU institutions to meet requirements arising in relation to Irish being an official and working language of the EU is 43. In addition, there are 25 accredited freelance interpreters. A breakdown of these figures between the various EU Institutions is set out below:

European Parliament Total: 4 full-time posts; 12 accredited freelance interpreters — English and Irish Translation Unit: 3 officials — English and Irish Interpretation Unit: 1 official; 12 accredited freelance interpreters

European Commission Total: 13 full-time posts; 13 accredited freelance interpreters — Irish Interpretation: 2 officials (plus 13 accredited freelance interpreters who also supply interpretation to Council meetings) — Irish Language Translation: 6 officials; 2 seconded national experts; 1 assistant — Legal Service (Lawyer-Linguists): 2 officials

General Secretariat of the Council of the EU Total: 26 full-time posts — Irish Translation: 22 translators, 7 assistants — Legal Service (Lawyer-Linguists): 2 officials, 2 assistants

Departmental Communications

Enda Kenny

Question:

173 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of Government websites operated by his Department including agencies under his Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22426/10]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Pat Carey)

A list of the websites operated by my Department and by agencies/bodies funded from my Department's Vote Group, as well as annual maintenance costs arising, is set out in the table below.

Entity	Website(s)	Website operated by	Annual cost of maintenance
Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs (DCEGA)	www.pobail.ie	DCEGA	€9,085
	www.socialinclusion.ie
	www.combatpoverty.ie
Dormant Accounts Board	www.dormantaccounts.ie	DCEGA	€3,887
Office of Charitable Donations and Bequests	www.charitycommissioners.ie	Office of Charitable Donations and Bequests	€234
National Advisory Committee on Drugs (NACD)	www.nacd.ie	NACD	€7,267
Family Support Agency	www.fsa.ie	Family Support Agency	€5,883
Oifig Choimisinéir na dTeangacha Oifigiúla	www.coimisineir.ie	Oifig Choimisinéir na dTeangacha Oifigiúla	€1,500
Údarás na Gaeltachta	www.udaras.ie	Údarás na Gaeltachta	€4,543
	www.gaelsaoire.ie		€2,484
Waterways Ireland	www.waterwaysireland.org	Waterways Ireland	€17,000*
Western Development Commission	www.wdc.ie	Western Development Commission	€3,000
	www.lookwest.ie
Foras na Gaeilge	www.forasnagaeilge.ie	Foras na Gaeilge	€933
	www.leabhar.ie
	www.colmcille.net
	www.foclóir.ie
The Ulster-Scots Agency/Tha Boord o Ulstèr-Scotch	www.ulsterscotsagency.com	Tha Boord o Ulstèr-Scotch	£414
	www.1718migration.org.uk		£33
	www.hamiltonmontgomery1606.com		£33
	www.ulstervirginia.com		£33
	www.brucerathlin1307.com		£33
	www.antrimmacdonnells.com		£33
	www.plantationofulster.com		£33

*This is a contract for an integrated service, which includes amongst other things line rentals, server maintenance and hosting, and it would be impractical to analyse the separate parts as it was tendered as a package and not on the basis of individual items.

For the sake of completeness, I should also mention two online databases that are being developed, hosted and maintained by Fiontar (DCU) on behalf of my Department and Foras na Gaeilge:

the database of Ireland's placenames, www.logainm.ie, which was developed by Fiontar and the Placenames Branch of my Department, is a public resource for Irish people at home and abroad and for all those who appreciate the rich heritage of Irishplacenames; and

the www.focal.ie site is the National Terminology Database for Irish, which was developed also by Fiontar on behalf of Foras na Gaeilge.

National Drugs Strategy

Catherine Byrne

Question:

174 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the details of the 2010 budgets for each of the local and regional drugs task forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22439/10]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Pat Carey)

The allocations from my Department to the 14 Local Drugs Task Forces and the 10 Regional Drugs Task Forces in 2010 are set out below in tables 1 and 2 respectively. The funding allocated will support nearly 500 initiatives that the Task Forces have prioritised for investment in their respective areas. In addition, I recently announced that funding of €600,000 is being made available for small-scale capital projects in the Task Force areas. Proposals in this regard are currently being developed by the Task Forces. I am satisfied that, with the funding allocated from my Department, the Task Forces will continue to make a positive impact on the drugs problem in their areas through their community-based initiatives.

Table 1: Allocations to Local Drugs Task Forces

Local Drugs Task Force Area	Funding allocated 2010
	€m
Ballyfermot	1.534
Ballymun	1.244
Blanchardstown	1.184
Bray	1.657
Canal Communities	1.645
Clondalkin	1.495
Cork	1.663
Cross Task Force projects*	0.098
Dublin 12	1.180
Dublin North East	1.294
Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown	0.975
Finglas Cabra	0.986
North Inner City	2.496
South Inner City	2.277
Tallaght	1.317
Total	21.045

*These projects cater for clients from a number of different Task Force areas.

Table 2: Allocations to Regional Drugs Task Forces

Regional Drugs Task Force Area	Funding allocated 2010
	€m
East Coast Area	0.818
Midland	0.895
Mid-West	1.576
North East	1.039
North West	0.806
North Dublin City & County	0.870
South East	1.193
South West	0.895
Southern	1.089
Western	0.740
Total	9.900

Anti-Poverty Strategy

Róisín Shortall

Question:

175 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the actions he is taking to ensure that the proposal by the European Commission that the EU should set a target of reducing poverty by 25% by 2020 is accepted. [21608/10]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Pat Carey)

The Deputy will be aware that the European Council at its meeting in March 2010 agreed on the inclusion of five headline targets in Europe 2020: A strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. The targets constitute shared objectives guiding the action of the Member States and the Union on the key areas where action is needed: knowledge and innovation, a more sustainable economy, high employment and social inclusion.

The target to promote social inclusion is framed in terms of poverty reduction. Its purpose is to measure progress in reducing poverty and in ensuring that the benefits of growth and jobs are shared. The Commission proposed a target of reducing poverty in Europe by 25 per cent, or 20 million people, using the at-risk-of-poverty indicator. The European Council decided that further work is needed on appropriate indicators and will revert to the issue at its June 2010 meeting. The Irish Government supports the decision to include a poverty target in the European strategy for 2020. Ireland favours the formulation of a poverty target based on indicators which appropriately reflect the multi-dimensional nature of poverty and exclusion.

The EU Social Protection Committee (SPC) is advising on the appropriate indicators for an EU poverty target. Officials of my own Department and of other relevant Departments are actively participating in these deliberations. The advice of the SPC will be presented for consideration at the ESPHCA Council of Ministers meeting on 7/8 June. It is anticipated that the poverty target will be decided at the European Council meeting later in June.

It is envisaged that the overall EU poverty reduction target will be translated into national targets on the basis of appropriate indicators given national circumstances and priorities. Since 1997, the Government has adopted poverty targets as part of its national policy against poverty and for social inclusion. The Irish target is based on a composite poverty indicator known as ‘consistent poverty'. The indicator identifies the percentage of the population which is both below 60 per cent of median income (known as ‘at-risk-of-poverty') and experiencing material deprivation (the enforced lack of two or more basic necessities).

The Government target in the National Action Plan for Social Inclusion 2007-2016 is to further reduce consistent poverty to between 2-4 per cent by 2012 and to eliminate it by 2016. The latest results (2008) from the EU Survey on Income and Living Conditions (EU-SILC) (released November 2009) indicate that poverty trends are on track to achieve both the 2012 and 2016 targets. The rate of consistent poverty in the population in 2008 was 4.2 per cent, down from 5.1 per cent in 2007 and 6.5 per cent in 2006.

Community Development

Noel Ahern

Question:

176 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the grant schemes that are available this year to community or sporting groups for installation of toilets including disabled facilities; if application dates will be provided; if operated directly by his Department or an agency under its remit; if schemes are lottery financed, dormant accounts financed or other; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22543/10]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Pat Carey)

As the Deputy may be aware, my Department is responsible for a number of grant schemes that may be relevant to the issue he has raised:

Under the EU co-funded Rural Development Programme Ireland 2007 — 2013, funding is available for the provision of basic services — including the development of amenity and leisure facilities — for rural communities. Details of the 36 groups administering the Programme are available from my Department's website www.pobail.ie.

Under the Exchequer-funded Gaeltacht Improvement Schemes, funding is made available to provide or improve local recreational facilities (sports fields, changing rooms, handball alleys, community halls, summer colleges, family support centres, etc) in the Gaeltacht. Application forms are available directly from my Department's offices in Na Forbacha in Galway.

The Deputy may also wish to note that the Programme of Grants for Locally-based Community and Voluntary Organisations, which was part-funded from the National Lottery, provided funding in respect of the refurbishment of community premises and the purchase of equipment for community and voluntary organisations. The Programme is, however, suspended at present and I do not envisage it re-opening for new applications in the foreseeable future.

Questions Nos. 177 to 179, inclusive, answered with Question No. 172.

Social Welfare Benefits

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

180 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when jobseeker’s allowance will be awarded in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22641/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

According to the records of the Department no jobseeker's allowance application has been received in respect of the person concerned.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

181 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when supplementary welfare payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22643/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

182 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason rent support has not been received by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22675/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Departmental Communications

Enda Kenny

Question:

183 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of Government websites operated by his Department including agencies under his Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22435/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

The Department currently maintains three websites. Agencies under the remit of the Department maintain another seven websites. The Department's main website, www.welfare.ie, contains information on the range of schemes and services provided by the Department, as well as policy publications and on-line services. Support and maintenance costs for the website and associated content management system for 2010 is €47,400.

Responsibility for the General Register Office was transferred from the Department of Health and Children to the Department from January 1st, 2008. The maintenance cost for the www.groireland.ie website for 2010 is €2,000. The Department also maintains the www.pensionsgreenpaper.ie website. The maintenance cost for this website for 2010 is €1,000.

The Citizens Information Board, which comes under the aegis of the Department, is the national information agency with responsibility for supporting the provision of independent information and advice on the broad range of social services including social welfare services. The Citizens Information Board maintains five websites. The websites and associated maintenance costs are as follows:

Website	2010 Maintenance costs
	€
www.citizensinformation.ie	234,500
www.assistireland.ie	47,200
www.losingyourjob.ie	2,500
www.citizensinformationboard.ie	1,200
www.keepingyourhome.ie	860

The Pensions Board's website www.pensionsboard.ie provides a range of information on occupational pension schemes and on other pension-related topics. The maintenance cost for this website for 2010 is €10,090. The role of the independent Office of the Pensions Ombudsman is to investigate complaints and disputes in relation to occupational pension schemes and Personal Retirement Savings Accounts. There is no maintenance cost for the website www.pensionsombudsman.ie in 2010.

The Social Welfare Appeals Tribunal does not have an independent website. Information relating to the Tribunal is published on www.welfare.ie. I am satisfied that the websites operated by the Department and its agencies provide valuable information in respect of their services and areas of responsibility.

Social Welfare Benefits

Paul Connaughton

Question:

184 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding dental treatment in so far as PRSI contributions are concerned; the treatments that are available under the new proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22476/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

The current budgetary position necessitated the changes made to social welfare benefits, including treatment benefits, in Budget 2010. From 1st January 2010, treatments available under the optical and dental elements of the scheme are limited to the free examination. There has been no change to the medical appliances element of the scheme. Over 2 million PRSI contributors are eligible for the free dental and optical examination and medical appliance benefit in 2010.

In 2009 over 418,000 customers claimed a free dental examination at a cost of over €14 million. In addition 219,000 free eye examinations, at a cost of almost €5.5 million were also provided. There were also 7,500 treatments under the medical appliance scheme, at a cost of over €7.5 million. Similar levels of applications can be expected this year. The continued provision of a free examination will allow people to have regular check-ups and help ensure the early detection of disease and other health issues.

Social Welfare Appeals

Michael D'Arcy

Question:

185 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an appeal against the decision to refuse an application for child benefit in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22485/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that, following receipt of the relevant Departmental papers including comments on the grounds of appeal, the appeal from the person concerned will be referred to an Appeals Officer for consideration. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Question No. 186 withdrawn.

Pension Provisions

Róisín Shortall

Question:

187 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a number of defined benefit pension plans have cut the accrued benefits payable to their members, and the Pensions Board expects the number of such plans to increase significantly during 2010; the action he is taking to address this problem. [22618/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

There are almost 1,200 defined benefit pension schemes subject to the Funding Standard. In the last 12 months, the Pensions Board has processed 5 applications from schemes, under Section 50 of the Pensions Act, to reduce benefits. Four of these were approved and one rejected. Another application is pending. The Pensions Board acknowledges that, given recent economic difficulties, further applications may be made under Section 50 of the Pensions Act.

Due to the economic downturn, approximately 90% of defined benefit pension schemes were underfunded at the end of 2008. The vast majority of these schemes opted to work with the Pensions Board to devise a funding proposal aimed at recovering their financial position, rather than opt for cutting promised benefits by restructuring their pension schemes.

Overall returns for pension schemes in 2009 averaged at more than 20% and went some way to assisting schemes in their attempts to recover their funding positions. Reflecting this, a survey by the Pensions Board at the end of 2009 suggested that the number of underfunded schemes had reduced to 75%. Although this is an encouraging indicator, it is crucial that we continue to assist schemes in their recovery. This is why the Pensions Regulator recently announced an extension of the deadline for submission of funding proposals for those due to submit before 30 June next by 5 months, to 30 November 2010.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

188 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection his views on the proposals to facilitate the use of Irish Government bonds rather than overseas bonds in the purchase of pensions. [22620/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

An annuity is a financial product which provides for the payment of a pension for a set period or for life. The Irish Association of Pension Funds and the Society of Actuaries in Ireland have made a proposal in relation to Irish pensions schemes purchasing annuities invested in Irish Government bonds. There are a number of complex issues involved. The matter is being examined by officials of my Department together with officials of the Department of Finance and the Pensions Board.

Social Welfare Benefits

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

189 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason child benefit ceased in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; when it will be restored; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22670/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

Child Benefit was paid to the person concerned in respect of one child for the period June 2006 to September 2008. Payment was stopped from September 2008 as she failed to return a certificate confirming her continued residence in Ireland. Separate claims were received in 2009 from the people concerned and contradictory information has since been provided which requires clarification before a decision can be made. The information has been requested but has not yet been provided. When the requested information is received a decision will be made and the persons concerned will be notified of the outcome in writing.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

190 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when rent allowance will be reinstated in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 1; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22671/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

191 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when rent support will be awarded in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22672/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

192 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if assistance will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22673/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

193 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for rent allowance in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22674/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

194 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when rent arrears will be awarded in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22687/10]

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

Due to staff action currently being taken in the HSE, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by theDeputy.

Departmental Communications

Enda Kenny

Question:

195 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Defence the number of Government websites operated by his Department including agencies under his Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22427/10]

Minister for Defence (Deputy Tony Killeen)

The following table provides the information requested in relation to the number of Government websites operated by the Department including agencies under the Department and the cost of maintenance of these websites. The cost provided is for 2009, being the last full year for which information is available.

	Site Name	Cost 2009
		€
Department of Defence	defence.ie	27,340
Civil Defence	civildefence.ie
Office of Emergency Planning	emergencyplanning.ie	14,220
Permanent Defence Forces	military.ie	36,146
Reserve Defence Forces	rdf.ie

Enda Kenny

Question:

196 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of Government websites operated by his Department including agencies under his Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22430/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

My Department operates 32 websites. Maintenance costs for 2009 were €84,124.08. Information relating to the websites operated by Agencies under the aegis of my Department is a matter for the Agencies themselves.

Election Management System

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

197 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if postal voting or other voting arrangement is available to citizens who have left the country since the last general election as a result of the current economic climate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22461/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

In order to be able to vote at elections and referenda in this jurisdiction, a person's name must be entered in the register of electors for a constituency in the State in which the person ordinarily resides.

Postal voting is provided for in electoral law in respect of certain categories of person who are entered in the register of electors. The Electoral Act 1992 provides for postal voting by whole-time members of the Defence Forces, members of the Garda Síochána, and Irish diplomats serving abroad and their spouses. Subsequent legislation enacted by the Oireachtas has extended postal voting to other categories: electors living at home who are unable to vote because of a physical illness or a physical disability (the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1996); electors whose occupation, service or employment makes it likely that they will be unable to vote in person at their local polling station on polling day and full-time students registered at their home who are living elsewhere while attending an educational institution in the State — in these cases, the law provides for completion of the necessary voting documentation at a Garda station (the Electoral Act 1997); certain election staff employed at the poll outside the constituency where they reside (the Electoral (Amendment) Act 2001); and electors who because of the circumstances of their detention in prison pursuant to an order of a court are likely to be unable to go in person on polling day to vote (the Electoral (Amendment) Act 2006).

While electoral law is subject to ongoing review I have no proposals at present to alter existing arrangements for postal voting.

Local Authority Community Facilities

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

198 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the details of the local authorities who have completed the community facilities audit which was requested by his Department; if he will list those who have completed the audits and those from whom it has been requested but not submitted; and if he will further indicate the response he proposes to make to those audits which have been submitted to him. [22468/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

All thirty-four county and city councils have now completed the audit of community facilities and appropriate arrangements are being made by the county and city councils to make the audits publicly available including via their websites. The main purpose of the audit was to establish the current level of provision and inform future investment in facilities based on the outcome of the audit and having regard to identified local needs and available resources.

Local Authority Housing

Finian McGrath

Question:

199 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will support a matter (details supplied). [22502/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

It is a matter for individual local authorities to decide on the allocation of houses to applicants on their waiting list within the terms of their approved Scheme of Letting Priorities, the making of which is a reserved function of the housing authority. It is my understanding that following a full investigation there was one case of misallocation discovered. The matter is being dealt with by the Council concerned and the elected members were appraised of this earlier this year.

Motor Taxation

John O'Mahony

Question:

200 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the money paid for road tax via the motor tax website is returned to the local authority in which the person resides; the amount of money collected via this website for 2008 and 2009; the amount returned to each local authority in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22527/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

The proceeds of motor tax are paid into the Local Government Fund, which was established by the Local Government Act 1998. The Exchequer also contributes to the Local Government Fund. Payments made from the Fund include recoupments to the Department of Transport in respect of vehicle and driver licensing administration, expenditure on regional and local roads, and annual General Purpose Grant allocations to local authorities. Motor tax income derived from operation of the on-line system in 2008 and 2009 amounted to €387,568,684 and €428,982,755 respectively.

The General Purpose Grant allocations to local authorities for 2008 and 2009 are set out in the following table.

General Purpose Grant Allocations

Local Authority Name	2008 Local Government Fund GP Allocation	2009 Local Government Fund GP Allocation
	€	€
Carlow County Council	13,171,854	11,910,119
Cavan County Council	20,690,378	18,832,045
Clare County Council	16,476,569	14,883,494
Cork County Council	57,368,547	51,707,370
Donegal County Council	44,097,787	40,140,417
Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council	41,261,666	37,165,016
Fingal County Council	33,756,001	30,404,698
Galway County Council	40,632,067	36,888,227
Kerry County Council	29,139,561	26,457,145
Kildare County Council	28,176,862	25,754,427
Kilkenny County Council	22,021,918	20,020,063
Laois County Council	19,360,800	17,580,214
Leitrim County Council	16,332,646	14,820,652
Limerick County Council	27,483,240	24,864,456
Longford County Council	15,522,985	14,118,480
Louth County Council	14,070,960	12,725,378
Mayo County Council	40,257,276	36,586,871
Meath County Council	30,297,653	27,601,149
Monaghan County Council	16,610,930	15,094,413
North Tipperary County Council	20,481,309	18,630,156
Offaly County Council	17,222,857	15,704,327
Roscommon County Council	23,308,308	21,065,007
Sligo County Council	18,731,673	16,997,791
South Dublin County Council	27,396,258	24,676,357
South Tipperary County Council	25,062,115	22,788,742
Waterford County Council	24,259,293	22,059,029
Westmeath County Council	22,711,775	20,625,403
Wexford County Council	23,425,682	21,282,429
Wicklow County Council	21,974,808	19,922,275
Cork City Council	28,383,759	25,764,998
Dublin City Council	105,039,762	94,709,663
Galway City Council	9,795,964	8,830,378
Limerick City Council	12,258,639	11,050,841
Waterford City Council	8,941,951	8,064,061
Clonmel Borough Council	3,640,466	3,295,919
Drogheda Borough Council	5,191,157	4,688,795
Kilkenny Borough Council	2,097,952	1,893,103
Sligo Borough Council	3,488,704	3,142,285
Wexford Borough Council	2,605,561	2,348,994
Arklow Town Council	1,800,934	1,634,797
Athlone Town Council	2,127,156	1,917,374
Athy Town Council	842,149	767,623
Ballina Town Council	1,793,779	1,632,670
Ballinasloe Town Council	1,015,293	920,181
Birr Town Council	901,055	817,077
Bray Town Council	5,016,875	4,531,181
Buncrana Town Council	1,088,368	980,244
Bundoran Town Council	667,311	601,052
Carlow Town Council	2,029,952	1,831,382
Carrickmacross Town Council	667,511	605,674
Carrick-on-Suir Town Council	1,280,842	1,164,428
Cashel Town Council	755,812	684,703
Castlebar Town Council	1,151,720	1,037,375
Castleblayney Town Council	547,412	496,043
Cavan Town Council	959,443	867,812
Clonakilty Town Council	693,955	626,151
Clones Town Council	641,474	583,122
Cobh Town Council	1,391,067	1,254,730
Dundalk Town Council	5,865,497	5,289,816
Dungarvan Town Council	1,151,863	1,037,498
Ennis Town Council	2,730,208	2,461,593
Enniscorthy Town Council	1,371,601	1,235,578
Fermoy Town Council	966,051	874,009
Kells Town Council	556,770	502,483
Killarney Town Council	2,055,205	1,865,408
Kilrush Town Council	714,415	647,720
Kinsale Town Council	465,860	419,623
Letterkenny Town Council	1,306,455	1,176,732
Listowel Town Council	881,560	795,421
Longford Town Council	1,368,653	1,232,768
Macroom Town Council	695,502	629,483
Mallow Town Council	1,249,965	1,132,311
Midleton Town Council	633,077	572,789
Monaghan Town Council	1,314,915	1,184,794
Naas Town Council	1,626,320	1,484,461
Navan Town Council	645,495	582,061
Nenagh Town Council	1,263,607	1,140,538
New Ross Town Council	1,089,176	987,575
Skibbereen Town Council	500,603	450,894
Templemore Town Council	726,943	658,712
Thurles Town Council	1,122,814	1,014,871
Tipperary Town Council	963,818	871,488
Tralee Town Council	3,642,477	3,280,851
Trim Town Council	645,050	582,432
Tullamore Town Council	1,469,791	1,324,142
Westport Town Council	953,737	859,045
Wicklow Town Council	1,825,214	1,648,281
Youghal Town Council	1,290,216	1,163,499
Totals	999,212,658	905,155,681

Question No. 201 answered with Question No. 18.

Building Regulations

Noel Ahern

Question:

202 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will refer to the new regulations brought in last October 2009 regarding fire regularisation certificates; if he will provide a progress report on same; if any certificates have been issued since October 2009; the local authorities that have issued same; if agreement has been reached with Dublin City Council on the operation of the system; the status of process involved in an application; if it is the equivalent of a planning application, must one get a decision by a due date; if approval is granted if no formal response is received; and if approval has now been granted for an application (details supplied) in Dublin 11. [22552/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

The implementation of the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2009 which provide, inter alia, for a Regularisation Certificate, is the responsibility of the 37 local Building Control Authorities. While information is not currently available on the number of Regularisation Certificates issued since the operative date of 1 October 2009, authorities will be requested to include this information in all building control statistical returns forwarded to my Department for the period January — June 2010 and thereafter. My Department is currently in consultation with the Consultative Committee of the National Directorate on Emergency Planning and Management to assist Building Control Authorities in practical implementation of certain aspects of the Regulations, including Regularisation Certificates.

There is a statutory period of two months, or such extended period as may be agreed between the applicant and the Building Control Authority, within which the Authority is required to make a decision on an application for a Regularisation Certificate, beginning on the date of application for the Certificate. A Certificate may be granted, with or without conditions, or refused by the Building Control Authority. The making of a decision on the application referred to in the Question is a matter for Dublin City Council. My Department understands from the Council that the application is in the final stages of consideration and the Council expects to make a decision on it very shortly.

Question No. 203 answered with Question No. 10.

Water and Sewerage Schemes

Emmet Stagg

Question:

204 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received revised contract documents for the Castlewarden to Ballygoran water supply scheme in County Kildare. [22580/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

The Kildare Water Supply Scheme Phase 2 (Castlewarden to Ballygoran) is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012 as a scheme at planning. Kildare County Council's contract documents for the scheme are awaited in my Department.

Housing Adaptation Grants

Emmet Stagg

Question:

205 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the capital allocation for 2010 from his Department to each local authority for the housing adaptation grant scheme for older people and people with a disability. [22581/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

The 2010 Exchequer allocations to local authorities in respect of the Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability are set out in the following table.

Local Authority	Allocation 2010
	€
Carlow County Council	1,494,500
Cavan County Council	1,500,000
Clare County Council	2,500,000
Cork County Council	6,490,067
Donegal County Council	3,680,000
Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown Co Cl	1,708,000
Fingal County Council	2,100,000
Galway County Council	1,900,000
Kerry County Council	3,249,000
Kildare County Council	3,000,000
Kilkenny County Council	1,494,000
Laois County Council	1,464,000
Leitrim County Council	1,310,000
Limerick County Council	1,547,000
Longford County Council	1,000,000
Louth County Council	2,156,500
Mayo County Council	2,976,000
Meath County Council	1,171,277
Monaghan County Council	1,664,000
North Tipp County Council	1,341,000
Offaly County Council	1,800,000
Roscommon County Council	2,200,000
Sligo County Council	975,000
South Dublin County Council	3,800,000
South Tipp County Council	2,500,000
Waterford County Council	1,362,000
Westmeath County Council	1,483,970
Wexford County Council	2,621,500
Wicklow County Council	1,949,850
Cork City Council	2,166,333
Dublin City Council	11,300,000
Galway City Council	981,333
Limerick City Council	1,220,000
Waterford City Council	698,000
Sligo Borough Council	500,000

Local Authority Housing

Terence Flanagan

Question:

206 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the regeneration of an area (details supplied) will go ahead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22592/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

My Department issued preliminary approval for the project in question to proceed to planning stage in June 2009, subject to a number of design and costing clarifications to be submitted by Dublin City Council. My Department has since been in regular contact with the Council in relation to the project. The Council has addressed remaining design concerns and documentation has recently been submitted to my Department. This is currently being assessed with a view to progressing the project to Part VIII planning stage as soon as possible, in the context of Dublin City Council's overall Social Housing Investment Programme.

Proposed Legislation

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

207 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which he or his Department has been consulted in connection with the introduction of legislation to regulate estate management companies; if he intends to have this legislation passed before the end of the year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22627/10]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

208 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the details of the discussions he has had with other Departments relating to the introduction of legislation or regulations in respect of estate management companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22628/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 207 and 208 together.

The Government has demonstrated a clear commitment to dealing effectively with the range of complex issues relating to multi-unit developments and is bringing forward a comprehensive suite of legislative proposals in response to the Law Reform Commission's Report on Multi-unit Developments. In its consultation paper issued in late 2006 the Law Reform Commission made a number of recommendations relating to areas within the remit of my Department. Those recommendations relating to planning and to physical aspects of multi-unit developments were addressed in 2007-08 through the Planning Guidelines issued by my Department addressing design standards, sustainable residential development and the taking in charge of residential developments/management arrangements.

The Law Reform Commission's Report also recommended that legislation be introduced to address a range of other key issues, relating to management companies, common areas, service charges, sinking funds and dispute resolution. These recommendations were then considered by an interdepartmental group which included representatives from my Department, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform the Department of the Taoiseach and the National Consumer Agency. The deliberations of this group led to the preparation of the Multi-unit Developments Bill 2009 by the Department of Justice, Equality & Law Reform. Matters relating to this Bill, including the timing of enactment, are the responsibility of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

Question 209 answered with Question No. 34.

Water and Sewerage Schemes

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

210 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the precise stage at which the capital requirement in respect of a group water scheme (details supplied) in County Kildare was known to his Department; if he or his Department has issued criteria to exclude or delay this scheme; the reason that this scheme was not included in the programme for 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22630/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

I refer to the replies to Questions Nos. 798 of 20 April 2010 and 128 of 6 May 2010. On 18 October 2005, Kildare County Council submitted a proposal, plan and cost estimate for the Ballyna Group Water Scheme. The proposed cost of the scheme was €11.3 million. The proposal was that the Ballyna Group Water Scheme would connect to the Johnstownbridge Wellfield Development at the outlet from the proposed Carbury Hill reservoir. The scheme, renamed the Ballyna Regional Water Supply Scheme, was subsequently included in the Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009 as a scheme to advance through planning.

While provision is made to commence contracts to the value of some €160 million in the county during the period of the programme, it was not possible to include the Ballyna Regional Water Supply Scheme or the Kildare Water Supply Scheme Phase 1 Wellfield Contract (Johnstownbridge/Robertstown) amongst the priority contracts and schemes selected for inclusion. The reply to Question No. 128 of 6 May 2010 sets out the criteria for the development of the Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012.

Local Authority Housing

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

211 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of home choice loans approved by each local authority in the past 12 months; the number of such houses purchased on the open market by the applicants; the number of purchases in respect of houses specifically identified by the local authorities or his Department under affordable or other schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22631/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

The principal terms and conditions of the scheme are set out under the Housing (Home Choice Loan) Regulations 2009. Loans are available to first time buyers of new and second hand houses or new build houses, other than houses available for sale under tenant purchase, shared ownership or any of the affordable housing schemes. The scheme is administered by designated housing authorities acting on behalf of the authorities generally. Activity since its commencement, by designated authority, is set out in the following table.

	Cork City Council	Dublin City Council	Galway County Council	Kilkenny County Council	Total
Applications received	20	31	12	5	68
Declined	10	16	6	4	36
Withdrawn	3	2	2	0	7
More Information requested	5	12	4	0	21
Approved	2	1	0	1	4

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

212 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of housing units funded from the capital programme or otherwise which have been made available to each local authority to address housing needs on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22632/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

Information in relation to the number of housing units funded under the range of housing programmes supported by my Department is set out in my Department's annual and quarterly Housing Statistics Bulletins, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas library and on my Department's website, www.environ.ie. This information is broken down by local authority area.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

213 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the funding provided by his Department in 2008, 2009 and 2010 and likely spending for 2011 and 2012 in respect of meeting the needs of people on the local authority housing list in respect of each local authority throughout the country; if housing units transferred from the private sector to local authorities are done on the basis of actual market values or otherwise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22633/10]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

214 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the anticipated funding by his Department to meet the local authority housing construction programme or alternative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22634/10]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy Michael Finneran)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 213 and 214 together.

Total Exchequer expenditure across the various housing programmes was €1,710m in 2008 and €1,392m in 2009. The Exchequer allocation for 2010 is €1,165m. The provision for 2011 and subsequent years will be determined in the context of the determination of the Estimates for Public Services for those years. The Exchequer allocation is supplemented each year by a non-voted allocation comprising loan finance channelled to local authorities from the Housing Finance Agency and local authority own resources. Details of allocations for 2010 to each local authority under the various subheads is available on my Department's website:

www.environ.ie (http://www.environ.ie/en/DevelopmentandHousing/Housing/SocialHousing Support/LocalAuthorityHousing/News/MainBody,22699,en.htm.

Local authorities source units for use as social housing from the wider housing market under both the main local authority programme and under the leasing initiative. The price paid for any units acquired under the main programme is determined on the basis of market value. In terms of units sourced under the leasing initiative lease payments are based on a discounted market rent.

Water and Sewerage Schemes

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

215 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will give details of his spending proposals on group sewerage schemes on an annual basis to end of 2012 on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22635/10]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

216 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans for expenditure through the various local authorities in respect of group water schemes in each of the next three years on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22636/10]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

217 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his spending proposals in respect of water and sewerage schemes over the next three years on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22637/10]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

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

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 over the next three years. This Programme is presented on a river basin district basis and lists the contracts to commence construction or advance through planning in respect of the water services authorities in the relevant district over the period 2010 to 2012. In addition details of the contracts and schemes in the Programme, on a county basis, are available on the Department's website.

Allocations under the Rural Water Programme are made on an annual basis, and County Councils were notified of their block grant allocations under the 2010 Rural Water Programme last month. A list showing the overall allocations to each Council is available in the Oireachtas Library. These block grant allocations cover both funding for group water and sewerage schemes and small public water and sewerage schemes. The major part of the funding for the group sector is directed at investment required under the Rural Water Action Plan developed in response to an adverse ruling against Ireland by the European Court of Justice.

Responsibility for the administration of the Rural Water Programme has been devolved to water services authorities since 1997. The selection and approval of individual group water and sewerage schemes for advancement and funding under the programme, within the overall priorities set by my Department and subject to the block grant allocation provided, is therefore a matter for the water services authorities. Allocations under the programme for 2011 and 2012 will be decided on the basis of the relevant submissions to be made by water services authorities at the time and taking into consideration the funding that will then be available.

Departmental Communications

Enda Kenny

Question:

218 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of Government websites operated by his Department including agencies under his Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22425/10]

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (Deputy Eamon Ryan)

My Department maintains the 12 websites that are listed below. Apart from the main Departmental website it is necessary in the interests of customer service to have some dedicated websites related to specific areas of Departmental responsibility. The total cost of maintaining these websites including technical maintenance, ongoing development, and hosting charges was €178,000 in 2009. The number and maintenance cost of websites operated by the agencies under the aegis of my Department is a day-to-day operational matter for each agency. I have no direct function in this matter.

Website names

www.dcenr.gov.ie

www.egovernance.ie

www.minex.ie

www.broadband.gov.ie

www.digitaltelevision.ie

www.explorationandmining.com

www.makeitsecure.ie www.gsi.ie

www.gsishop.ie www.gsiseabed.ie

www.planetearth.ie https://jetstream.gsi.ie/iwdds/index.html

Broadcasting Services

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

219 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when RTÉ will be in a position to conclude its digital tests and issue the Saorview logo to manufacturers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22445/10]

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (Deputy Eamon Ryan)

In accordance with section 130 of the Broadcasting Act, 2009 RTÉ is required to take steps to promote the availability of Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) receiver equipment. In relation to such equipment (receivers, televisions and set top boxes), RTÉ has contracted Teracom to test receivers against the Irish DTT specification. A manufacturer must submit their products to Teracom for testing and once the product has passed the tests they can apply to RTÉ to use the RTÉ SAORVIEW logo. This logo will indicate compatibility with the Irish DTT specification.

This testing and certification process is an operational and contractual matter for RTÉ. That said, I have been informed by RTÉ, however, that Teracom have received enquiries from a number of parties expressing interest in submitting receivers for test. To date, one manufacturer has submitted a receiver and this is currently being tested. I understand that RTÉ is aware of a number of other manufacturers that have expressed interest. RTÉ only issues the Saorview logo on completion of this technical certification process.

Telecommunications Services

Joe McHugh

Question:

220 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when broadband will be delivered to Inch Island, Inishowen, County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22500/10]

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (Deputy Eamon Ryan)

Prior to the commencement of the National Broadband Scheme (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 area referred to in the Deputy's Question and consequently the locality was excluded from the Scheme. Details of broadband services available in each county can be found on ComReg's website at www.callcosts.ie

It continues to be a priority of the Government that there will be broadband coverage across the entire country. However, despite Government and private investment in broadband, I am aware that there continues to be a small percentage of premises throughout the country that will not be capable of receiving broadband services. This is primarily due to technical and other reasons (suitability of a telephone line, distance from an enabled exchange, no line of sight etc.). The European Commission has set aside a portion of the European Economic Recovery Programme (EERP) funding for rural broadband initiatives.

My Department is currently considering the design and implementation of a scheme which would use this funding to address the issue of basic broadband availability to un-served rural premises outside of the NBS areas. This work will include the identification of premises not capable of receiving broadband. It is hoped to commence this scheme in late 2010 and have it completed by 2012. As the scheme is only at the design stage, there is no application process at this juncture. Information in relation to acceptance of applications and the process of qualification under the scheme will be made available in due course when the scheme is launched.

James Reilly

Question:

221 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when landline broadband will be available in Naul, County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22541/10]

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (Deputy Eamon Ryan)

The provision of broadband services is in the first instance a matter for private sector service providers operating in Ireland's fully liberalised telecommunications market. Broadband services are provided by private service providers over various platforms including DSL (i.e over the telephone lines), fixed wireless, mobile , cable, fibre and satellite. Details of broadband services available in each county, including County Dublin, can be found on ComReg's website at www.callcosts.ie.

Postal Services

Terence Flanagan

Question:

222 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will respond to a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22591/10]

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (Deputy Eamon Ryan)

An invitation to tender issued on the 10th May 2010 for consultants to assist in selecting a body to implement and manage the delivery of a working national postcode system. The closing date for receipt of tenders is 22nd June 2010. I still expect to deliver a national postcode system for Ireland in 2011.

Departmental Communications

Enda Kenny

Question:

223 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of Government websites operated by his Department including agencies under his Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22424/10]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Brendan Smith)

The details requested by Deputy Kenny in relation to the Department's websites are provided in the following table:

Website Name	Annual maintenance cost (ex vat) for each site in 2010 (to date)	Annual maintenance cost (ex vat) for each site in 2009
	€	€
http://www.agriculture.gov.ie	7,306.69	7,306.69
http://www.fawac.ie	62.99	62.99
http://www.fishingnet.ie	69.99	69.99
http://www.killybegsharbour.ie	69.99	69.99
http://www.agrifood2010.ie	62.00	62.00
http://www.agri-vision2015.ie	62.99	62.99
http://www.efabis.ie	62.00	62.00
http://www.coford.ie (3 websites)*	1,589.94	10,723.69
http://www.pcs.agriculture.gov.ie	Nil	Nil
http://www.pots.agriculture.gov.ie	Nil	Nil
http://ww.agriappeals.ie	Nil	Nil

*www.coford.ie includes an interactive web based decision making tool for forest management, publishes an e-newsletter, and provides online forms and surveys facilities.

In relation to agencies under the aegis of my Department, the number of websites and their cost of maintenance is an operational matter for the agencies themselves.

Rural Environment Protection Scheme

Michael Ring

Question:

224 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason the P checks applied by technical staff processing REPS 4 applications have not been changed to reflect the eREPS system upgrade of February 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22483/10]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Brendan Smith)

A number of REPS 4 plans produced using eREPS included chemical phosphorus levels which appeared to be in excess of the levels permitted. This situation was not caused by any deficiency in the eREPS system but because instructions for using the system were not followed. To try to prevent this happening again, work was carried out in February 2010 on the eREPS system to provide additional navigational aids to planners. In addition, a revised checking procedure was introduced in March 2010 for use on all adjusted plans involving chemical phosphorus.

Grant Payments

Joe McHugh

Question:

225 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of 2009 REP scheme payments to farmers in County Donegal that are still unpaid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22496/10]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Brendan Smith)

Payment in full for 2009 has issued to 1,736 out of a total of 1,898 Donegal farmers who applied to participate in REPS 4. The remaining 162 cases are being processed as issues outstanding are being resolved and full payments will be made as soon as possible in these cases.

Harbours and Piers

Joe McHugh

Question:

226 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans for funding the next stages of the Greencastle Harbour breakwater development, County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22497/10]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Brendan Smith)

Greencastle harbour is owned by Donegal County Council and the maintenance and development of the harbour is the responsibility of the Council in the first instance. My Department has, however, in recent years, project managed works on phase 1 of the Greencastle Harbour development project on behalf of Donegal County Council as well as providing funding. The position with regard to providing further funding for the Greencastle project is that I have provided adequate funding in the capital programme for 2010 to suspend the project in a safe and acceptable manner. My Department is however engaged in ongoing discussions with Donegal County Council in relation to financial issues and will keep the matter under review on an ongoing basis having regard to overall expenditure in the Fishery Harbours and Coastal Infrastructure Capital Programme. It is, of course, open to Donegal County Council as owners of the harbour at Greencastle to continue works on the breakwater out of their own resources.

Grant Payments

Michael Moynihan

Question:

227 Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when forestry premium in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be awarded; and the reason for the delay. [22518/10]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Brendan Smith)

My officials have now received satisfactory clarification from the Revenue Commissioners on this matter. Processing of the payment will now take place and it will issue to the applicant in the coming days.

John O'Mahony

Question:

228 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to speed up the payment of REP schemes to farmers once their applications are submitted; the length of time it takes on average for a REP scheme payment to issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22528/10]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Brendan Smith)

REPS 3 participants were paid for a twelve months period in advance at each anniversary of the start of their contract. Almost all of the final-year payments to participants in REPS 3, the last version of the scheme to which this payment arrangement applies, have now issued.

Participants in REPS 4 are paid in respect of each calendar year rather than for each twelve-month contract period. EU Regulations allow for payment of 75% once administrative checks on all participants have been completed and payment of the remaining 25% when all on-the-spot inspections for the year have been carried out. The administrative checks are comprehensive in nature and are in place to satisfy EU audit requirements. In a significant number of the applications received under the scheme, the administrative checks raised issues and queries which required further detailed examination. This led to delays in payment in 2009. Industrial relations issues in some of my Department's local offices also contributed to the delays.

A total of 29,376 applications were received for participation in REPS 4 for payment in 2009. So far, 24,023 applicants have received full payment for 2009 and work is continuing to process the remainder as quickly as possible. It is not possible to give an average length of the time it took for a REPS Scheme payment to issue in respect of 2009 as there were a number of different factors, and varying timescales, affecting the processing of each individual case.

I anticipate that REPS payments in 2010 will not be subject to the delays encountered in 2009. Inevitably, administrative checks for joining the REPS 4 Scheme are more exhaustive and detailed than subsequent administrative checks required to process ongoing applications for payment throughout the contract period. In this context, the application for payment for REPS 4 is the Single Farm Payment Form which is due by 15 May each year. In view of this, I am confident that the first payments for REPS 4 this year will begin to issue in early Autumn.

Training and Education Programmes

Olwyn Enright

Question:

229 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the eligibility criteria for persons who are unemployed to undertake third level education courses under the labour market activation scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22536/10]

Olwyn Enright

Question:

244 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the eligibility criteria for persons who are unemployed to undertake third level education courses under the labour market activation scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22535/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 229 and 244 together.

The Labour Market Activation Fund, 2010 is intended to support the provision of training and education programmes for the unemployed — prioritising the low skilled, and those formerly employed in declining sectors such as construction, retail and manufacturing sectors, with particular emphasis on the under 35's and the long-term unemployed. Intending participants on programmes eligible for Fund support must be in receipt of an unemployment payment for a period of at least three consecutive months, or equivalent thereof, before joining the programmes (time spent on training or education programmes will be reckonable for this three-month period). Individual third-level education providers may specify additional entry requirements for courses being offered, depending on the nature of the subjects and level of qualification on graduation, to ensure that applicants are equal to the demands of, and can successfully finish the courses.

A Call for Proposals was issued in March for the provision of training and education programmes for the unemployed to be supported by the Fund. Some 370 tenders were received by the deadline of Thursday 8th April. It is intended that the process of awarding contracts to successful providers will begin shortly, following which successful programme providers will be actively seeking to enrol participants to their programmes.

Departmental Communications

Enda Kenny

Question:

230 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of Government websites operated by her Department including agencies under her Department; the cost of maintenance of these websites; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22428/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The annual cost of maintaining my Department's website is approximately €21,000. This figure includes a contribution, which was €6,929 in 2009, to the Local Government Computer Services Board (LGCSB) for hosting the website. To expedite claims and streamline the application process for the Energy Efficiency Scheme announced in May 2009 (this scheme is now closed) a new website www.energyeducation.ie was developed in partnership with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. The annual cost of this website for both hosting and domain name registration is €78.53.

The European Social Funds Unit which was a Unit within the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation (D/ETI) has transferred to my Department since early May. There is an associated website, www.esf.ie, which currently resides on the D/ETI website server. The total costs in 2009 were €5,209 and the costs to date in 2010 are €950. Issues in relation to the number and costs of websites operated by agencies under the aegis of my Department are a matter for each agency and the information is not collated centrally. If the Deputy has a particular aegis body in mind, my officials will obtain the relevant details and communicate them to the Deputy.

Schools Building Projects

Catherine Byrne

Question:

231 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the schools in Dublin 8, 10, 12, 20 that will proceed with building projects in 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22440/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The following is the situation in relation to major building projects to proceed to construction or currently on site in 2010 in Dublin 8, 10, 12 and 20:

Major building projects for the following schools are currently on site: Scoil Mhuire Ogh (RN 16964F), Crumlin, Dublin 12 and Scoil Bride C (18324C), Palmerstown, Dublin 20.

A major building project for Inchicore National School (20139T), Dublin 10 is expected to go on site shortly. A devolved grant to build 4 mainstream classrooms has been approved for Gaelscoil Inse Chór (19589U).

In addition to the major projects outlined above, some schools in these areas have been approved grants for works of a smaller scale under grant schemes operated by my Department.

Third Level Courses

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

232 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will ask the Higher Education Authority to investigate if a course (details supplied) in UCC meets the requirements of a level seven qualification by the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that graduates of this course are not accepted for level eight qualifications in this field in other higher education institutions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22448/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The policies and criteria for the inclusion in, or alignment with, the Framework of awards made by universities and other awarding bodies are the responsibility of the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI). For an award to be recognised through the Framework at a particular level, the specific learning outcomes associated with that award must be demonstrated to be in line with the learning outcomes associated with that level of the Framework. The NQAI maintains on its website a list of awards which have been recognised through the Framework and the course provided by UCC which is referred to in the question is included in that list as a Level 7 Special Purpose Award.

Universities, as autonomous academically independent institutions within the meaning of the Universities Act 1997, are themselves responsible for establishing and implementing procedures for access, transfer and progression (ATP). Under the Qualifications (Education and Training) Act, 1999 the NQAI has a role in facilitating and advising universities on the implementation of such procedures. Therefore, where a person applies to a university for access to a particular course, it is for the university itself to apply its own procedures regarding ATP. It should be noted that the Framework level to which an award is assigned is only one of the issues to be considered. Other issues such as the size of the award and the course content are also of relevance.

Redundancy Payments

Tom Hayes

Question:

233 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when redundancy payment will be awarded in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22455/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

I can confirm that an application for redundancy has been received by my Department from the Special Needs Assistant referred to by the Deputy. Applications for redundancy are being received on an ongoing basis and are processed in date order of receipt. The application in question will be dealt with as soon as possible.

Training and Education Programmes

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

234 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if there are specific policies in place in the areas of education and training towards the enhancement of employability skills for migrants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22503/10]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

235 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if there are specific policies in place directed towards migrants who have become unemployed in the current economic climate to assist them in finding new employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22504/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

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

Non EU nationals who are legally in the State and who have an entitlement to work are entitled to access the full range of FÁS programmes, subject to satisfying the other criteria for the respective schemes. The exception is that persons from outside the State/EEA and Switzerland who hold work permits and who have subsequently become unemployed, have no entitlement to access FÁS training. The following categories of person are entitled to free access to Further Education and training programmes, provided they satisfy the other criteria of the schemes:

1. EU nationals;

2. EEA nationals;

3. nationals of the Swiss Confederation;

4. persons who have refugee status in Ireland;

5. persons in the State as the spouse or dependent of an EU national;

6. persons (including their spouse and children) who have been granted humanitarian leave to remain in the State (prior to the 1999 Immigration Act), or have subsidiary protection, or have been granted permission to remain in the State following a decision not to make a deportation order under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999;

7. persons who have permission to remain in the State as the parents of a child born in Ireland;

8. applicants for asylum who have been granted permission to work under the terms of a government decision of 26 July 1999.

Asylum seekers without an entitlement to work are entitled to free access to Adult Literacy, English language and mother culture supports only. Asylum seekers with the right to work are entitled to free access to those courses and VTOS, Youthreach and PLC courses as well as the full range of training programmes provided by FÁS.

With regard to higher education and the student support schemes for higher education and Post Leaving Certificate courses, all the categories 1-6 inclusive are entitled to be treated on the same basis as Irish nationals for purposes of free fees and student maintenance grants. Persons in the categories 7 and 8 and other nationals from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland may only avail of access to higher education on the basis of payment of the economic fee. In 2003 the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland established a qualifications recognition service (found at the website ww.qualificationsrecognition.ie) which is aimed at individuals, employers, education providers and other stakeholders who may have enquiries concerning education and training awards made outside of Ireland.

The recognition service website includes an International Qualifications Database which contains information regarding foreign qualifications which have been processed to date by the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland and states the advice that has been issued regarding the comparability of the qualifications in Ireland. The recognition service receives a large number of formal applications for recognition information annually, peaking at over 2,000 in 2008, and the website was visited over 55,000 times during 2009.

Recognition of Qualifications

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

236 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the guidelines that exist for qualification recognition for qualifications obtained overseas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22505/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

There are two main modes of recognition for qualifications obtained overseas: the recognition of academic qualifications and the recognition of professional qualifications in regulated professions. In 2004 Ireland became a signatory to the 1997 Lisbon Convention on the recognition of qualifications in higher education in the European Region. The Convention requires that qualifications issued by other parties to the Convention for access to higher education be recognised in the host State unless a substantial difference can be shown in the requirements of the host State vis a vis those in the home State. The Convention requires that transparent mechanisms be established for the assessment and recognition of higher education qualifications.

Under the Qualifications (Education and Training) Act, 1999 the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI) has statutory responsibility for facilitating the recognition in the State of academic awards made by bodies outside the State. In 2003 the NQAI assumed the role of the Irish ENIC-NARIC (European Network of Information Centres- National Academic Recognition Information Centre) and since then has established a qualifications recognition service (found at the website www.qualificationsrecognition.ie) which is aimed at individuals, employers, education providers and other stakeholders who may have enquiries concerning education and training awards made outside of Ireland.

The recognition service website includes an International Qualifications Database which contains information regarding foreign qualifications which have been processed to date by the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland and states the advice that has been issued regarding the comparability of the qualifications in Ireland. The recognition service receives a large number of formal applications for recognition information annually, peaking at over 2,000 in 2008, and the website was visited over 55,000 times during 2009. Professional qualifications are those qualifications which a person is required to hold in order to access a particular profession e.g. medicine. The qualifications which are required are set down by a competent authority and that body is then responsible for assessing a person's qualifications to ascertain whether that person should be granted access to that profession.

The main mechanism by which professional qualifications are recognised in Ireland is set down in EU Directive 2005/36 on the Recognition of Professional Qualifications. The purpose of the Directive, which came into force in October 2007, is to help make labour markets more flexible, further liberalise the provision of services, encourage more automatic recognition of qualifications, and simplify administrative procedures. Under the Directive, provisions are made whereby Professionals qualified in one (home) Member State can seek professional recognition of their qualifications in another (host) Member State for the purpose of practising their profession in that host Member State. My Department is co-ordinating authority for the implementation of the Directive and information regarding the Directive is available on my Department's website.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

237 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the procedures that are in place for the documentation of prior learning; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22506/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process by which learning that has already taken place prior to enrolment on a programme of study is given a value. This learning process may have taken place formally through a further or higher education provider or informally or non-formally through work/life experiences. The broad aim of RPL is to enable and encourage people to enter or re-enter formal education, leading to qualifications, by awarding or recognising credit for what is already known of the course curriculum.

The National Framework of Qualifications incorporates a wide range of awards recognising learning wherever it is gained. The Framework is an important tool in recognising prior learning as it is based on learning outcomes. The recognition of prior learning can be facilitated by referencing the learning outcomes included at each level of the Framework. In 2005, after consultation with relevant stakeholders, the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI) set out principles and operational guidelines for a national approach to RPL. These were developed as a first step in coordinating the work of awarding bodies and providers of RPL. They address quality, assessment, documentation, communication and guidance. The principles are intended to encourage the development and expansion of processes for RPL by education and training providers and awarding bodies.

Under the Qualifications (Education and Training) Act, 1999 it is a requirement that providers who have programmes validated by either HETAC or FETAC or which have been delegated authority to make awards and the Dublin Institute of Technology implement the NQAI's procedures on access, transfer and progression, including policy on RPL. Universities, as autonomous awarding bodies, are each responsible for RPL in their respective institutions. The NQAI, in drafting the principles and guidelines referred to above, requested that universities would have regard to them in developing their own RPL procedures. Ireland was one of 20 countries to take place in an OECD study on the Recognition of Non-Formal and Informal Learning and 2008. The findings of this study form the basis of ongoing actions to strengthen arrangements in this area.

State Examinations

James Reilly

Question:

238 Deputy James Reilly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the reason a person (details supplied) in County Dublin was refused a spelling and grammar waiver for English and French despite providing documentation from their psychologist supporting their application; the documentation that they must provide to be eligible; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22511/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations including organising the holding of examinations and determining procedures in places where examinations are conducted including the supervision of examinations. I can inform the Deputy that the Commission operates a scheme of Reasonable Accommodations in the Certificate examinations. Applications for such accommodations are submitted by schools on behalf of their students. In view of this I have forwarded your query to the State Examinations Commission for direct reply to you.

Special Educational Needs

Phil Hogan

Question:

239 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will confirm that a person (details supplied) in County Carlow will continue to have special needs assistance and resource hours when they attend a school in County Carlow in September 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22514/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), for allocating resource teachers and special needs assistants to schools to support children with special needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support. I have arranged for the details supplied to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply. All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.

Schools Building Projects

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

240 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, further to a previous parliamentary question, if she will comment as to whether a school (details supplied) in County Galway is to be included in the next public private partnership bundle which is now overdue; and if she will indicate when this bundle will be announced. [22520/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The school referred to by the Deputy was announced in 2005 as one of the 27 schools included in my Department's PPP school building programme. A site has been purchased by City of Galway VEC for the provision of a new school building. My Department is now in the process of identifying what school projects might be eligible for consideration for inclusion in a 4th bundle of PPP schools and the school in question is being considered in that context.

The nature of procurement via Public Private Partnership is that a Bundle of school projects is offered to the market together. The other issues which have to be considered in the timing and bundling of schools include outline planning permission being secured, geographical spread and the total committed cost of the proposed bundle. The indicative timeframe for the delivery of a Bundle of Public Private Partnership schools currently stands at approximately 4 years for the date the Bundle is announced.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

241 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the year that she considers to be the optimum time to open a school on the already identified site at Clonburris, County Dublin. [22529/10]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

242 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the stage it would be envisaged that the second school site on the Clonburris local area plan would be required to meet demand for second level school places from within the existing Lucan area in view of the fact that figures provided by the schools themselves, an analysis from census information and research carried out by community groups suggest that even if a school opens on the first Clonburris site in September 2011, this, along with the recent opening of Adamstown Community College and the expansion for Lucan Community College, will not in itself fully meet the capacity requirements during the 2012 to 2015 period; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22530/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 241 and 242 together.

Forward Planning Section of my Department is analysing demographic trends and the impact for school infrastructure provision on an ongoing basis. Based on this analysis of current demographic trends it is anticipated that there will be a need for a further post-primary school in the Clonburris, Lucan area in the medium term. More detailed analysis will be required in order to determine an optimum date for the commencement of that school.

In the interim, my Department has increased post-primary school capacity in the Lucan area with the provision of recently completed building projects. This includes the opening of a new post-primary school in Adamstown in September 2009 which has capacity to cater for up to 1,000 pupils. These recently completed projects, in addition to currently planned extension projects, will assist in reducing pressure for pupil places in the short to medium term while the process of advancing the project for a new school continues.

I have previously stated that given the changing nature of Irish society and the projected need for a number of post-primary schools to open in the medium term, the Department is considering a number of broad policy issues regarding the establishment of new post-primary schools. As part of this, consideration is being given to the setting up of a new framework in relation to the establishment of new second-level schools and their patronage. New schools where only very initial planning has taken place, such as the case of the proposed new school in Lucan referred to by the Deputy, will be considered in the context of this framework when it is established. It is my intention to finalise this matter and convey a decision to all relevant parties at the earliest date possible.

Redundant Apprentices

Brian Hayes

Question:

243 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of apprentices currently with FÁS who are now redundant on the basis that they cannot obtain a placement to complete their apprenticeship; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22532/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

A total of 7,453 apprentices are currently registered by FÁS as redundant. The following measures have been initiated to support redundant apprentices:

1. FÁS has put in place an interim measure whereby redundant apprentices may progress to the next off-the-job training phase of their apprenticeship, in line with current scheduling criteria. In 2009, over 2,000 redundant apprentices were provided with off-the-job training. To date in 2010, 2,523 redundant apprentices commenced off-the-job training and of these 1,251 have completed phase 4 and phase 6 off-the-job training in the Institutes of Technology and Colleges of Further Education.

2. FÁS in 2009 introduced a temporary Employer Based Redundant Apprentice Rotation Scheme for apprentices made redundant in the Construction Industry whereby the vacancy arising from the release of the employed apprentice to a scheduled phase 4 and phase 6 off-the-job training phase was filled by a redundant apprentice who thereby gained on-the-job training. Over 460 redundant apprentices completed Phase 3, 5 and 7 on-the-job training and assessments with employers under this Scheme in 2009. The Redundant Apprentices Placement Scheme replaced the Rotation Scheme for 2010 and was launched in April 2010 by FÁS. The scheme with an allocation for 2010 of almost €4m will provide up to 750 apprentices with the opportunity to complete their on-the-job training at Phases 3 and 5 with the support of employers with a proven past record of providing consistent systematic training.

3. A joint ESB Networks-FÁS programme commenced in March 2009 where on-the-job training with ESB Networks is provided to eligible redundant apprentices at Phases 5 and 7 of their apprenticeship. This programme will provide up to 400 places over a period of 18 months and is funded by ESB Networks. To date 236 (104 Phase 5 and 132 Phase 7) redundant apprentices have completed training, 99 (53 Phase 5 and 46 Phase 7) are currently in training and a further 65 Phase 7 redundant apprentices will commence in July 2010

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

5. FÁS has also developed Phase 7-equivalent assessments for redundant apprentices at the final phase of their apprenticeship in the trades of Carpentry & Joinery, Electrical, Plumbing, Brick & Stonelaying and Plastering. To date, 39 redundant apprentices have completed assessments, 30 are currently undertaking assessment, and FÁS is inviting a further 351 to undertake Phase 7 assessments

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

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

8. Under the EU Leonardo da Vinci III Lifelong Learning Programme, Léargas in collaboration with FÁS, has supported 45 apprentices to date to complete their final on-the-job work placement in companies abroad. 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.

Question No. 244 answered with Question No. 229.

Schools Refurbishment

Noel Ahern

Question:

245 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills her plans for the assembly hall attached to a national school (details supplied) in Dublin 9; if she will summarise the report on the most recent survey of the building; if she will consider disposal to the local authority or some other group before the building officially becomes a derelict site or is rendered non-dangerous or demolished by the dangerous buildings section of Dublin City Council; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22550/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

I wish to advise the Deputy that there is a charging lease in place for the school site dated 27th March 1945 for 99 years. The ownership of the site rests with St. Laurence O'Toole Diocesan Trust, whereas I have a vested interest in the site. In relation to any divesting or disposal arising, this is a matter in the first instance for the school patron to consider. I can advise that my Department has received an application for Emergency Works in relation to the refurbishment of the GP Hall. This application is being considered in my Department.

School Staffing

Noel Ahern

Question:

246 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the decision on the teacher supply panel; if it will cause significant problems for children in our most deprived areas; if the panel provides consistency of learning in such areas; if teacher absenteeism is higher in deprived areas; if it has historically proved more difficult to get substitute teachers in such areas; if abolishing the panel may result in unqualified substitute teachers being employed without Garda vetting approval; if she has discussed these reports with teacher unions and the result of same; the way substitute teachers are selected; if a substitute teacher can pick and choose; the number of substitutes that are on the available panel and so on; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22551/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The supply teacher scheme was initially set up at primary level over 15 years ago at a time when schools had difficulty getting substitute teachers. The supply scheme operates on the basis of an additional full-time teacher being allocated to a school to cover certified sick leave absences in that school and a cluster of neighbouring schools. If the teacher is not required on a given day to cover sick leave absences they generally assist with other work in their school such as administrative duties. There are 60 posts allocated to the scheme.

A value for money review of the Supply Teacher Scheme was published in July 2006. The review found that approximately 60% of these teachers' time was used to cover sick leave absences with the balance on various other school duties. This reflects the unpredictable nature of sick leave absences. In relation to the Supply Teacher Scheme, while there are benefits for schools in having these full-time teachers it is considered more cost effective to use the normal substitution arrangements that apply to all other schools to cover sick leave absences instead of having a cohort of full-time teachers "on call" all the time in these schools to cover sick leave absences that may or may not arise.

The employment and appointment of all teachers is a matter for each individual school board of management. The arrangements for vetting of teaching and non-teaching staff are set out in Department Circular 0094/2006 which issued to all schools in June 2006. The Circular is available on my Department's website. The requirements under the Circular in regard to vetting are not diminished in any way by the policy decision in relation to the value for money consideration that applied to the supply teacher scheme.

There has been ongoing engagement and discussion with the relevant education partners involving my predecessor and/or my senior officials concerning general education matters and specific budgetary matters. The supply teacher scheme will cease from the start of the 2010/11 school year. The teachers concerned will be redeployed in accordance with the existing redeployment arrangements to other schools that have vacancies.

School Accommodation

James Reilly

Question:

247 Deputy James Reilly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been drawn to the need for a secondary school in Lusk, County Dublin; when funding will be provided for a secondary school in Lusk; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22561/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

An extensive study on educational requirements for Rush/Lusk for the medium to long-term was undertaken by the Commission on School Accommodation. This study was formalised and included in the "Draft Area Development Plan for North Dublin, East Meath and South Louth" which was published in January 2007. The Commission on School Accommodation report and demographic data available to the Department indicates that up to between 800 and 1,000 additional post-primary pupil places may be required across the area in the coming years depending on the scale and pace of developments and demographic changes. Overall school accommodation requirements for the Lusk and Rush areas will be monitored and considered within that context under the Schools Building and Modernisation Programme.

Schools Building Projects

Emmet Stagg

Question:

248 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if tenders have been invited for the building of the new national school (details supplied) in County Kildare; the timeframe for building the new school specified in the tender documents; and the closing date for receipt of tenders. [22566/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

Tenders will be invited shortly for the new school referred to by the Deputy. Following completion of the tender stage, assuming no issues arise, the project will progress to construction. Once the project goes on site it is envisaged that it will take 12 months to complete.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

249 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she has received the tender report for the building of the new Gaelscoil in Maynooth, County Kildare; if so, when construction will commence; and the stipulated timeframe for completion of the building project. [22568/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The tender report for the new Gaelscoil in Maynooth has been received and approved by my Department. My Department is currently awaiting receipt of the Supplementary Tender Report. When this report is received and approved, assuming that no issues arise, the project will progress to construction. Once on site it is envisaged that the project will take 12 months to complete.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

250 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she has received the tender report for the required extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if so, when construction will commence; and the stipulated timeframe for completion of the building project. [22569/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The tender report for the proposed extension project at the school to which the Deputy refers has been recently received in my Department and is currently being assessed. When the tender report is approved, assuming that there are no issues arising, the project will progress to construction. Once the project goes on site it is envisaged that it will take twelve months to complete.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

251 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she has concluded consideration of the proposal to develop a school (details supplied) in County Kildare as a two stream school using devolved grants; when approval will issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22570/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

A proposal has been submitted to the Department by the authority of the school to which the Deputy refers to meet its long-term accommodation needs. This proposal is under consideration and decision will issue to the school authority in due course.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

252 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when tenders will be invited for the required extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [22573/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The project to which the Deputy refers is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning. Planning permission has been received and the Design Team is currently working on completing the stage 2(b) submission for this project. Following receipt and review of the Stage 2(b) submission, my Department will revert to the school regarding next steps in the progression of the project towards tender and construction.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

253 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the progress made to date in providing a new national school for Naas under the patronage of County Kildare Vocational Education Committee; and if the school will be ready for September 2010. [22574/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The Deputy will be aware that approval has been given for the establishment of a new primary school for Naas to meet the continuing growing demand for primary school places in that area. The school will be a Community National School as part of the pilot model and it is my intention that it will commence operation from next September. The VEC is currently making arrangements for accommodation for the school.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

254 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will review the commitments given by her Department in relation to the provision of capital funding for the building of an autism spectrum disorder unit at a school (details supplied) in Leixlip, County Kildare, and on foot of her review of the file if she will sanction funding for the new project. [22575/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

I can confirm the school to which the Deputy refers has made an application to my Department for major capital funding which included for the provision of accommodation for an ASD unit. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and has been assigned a Band 1 rating. Information in respect of the current school building programme along with all assessed applications for major capital works, including the project referred to by the Deputy, is now available on my Department's website at www.education.ie.

The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

Recently, the school submitted an application to my Department for temporary accommodation to assist in accommodating its ASD unit and this application is currently being assessed. The outcome of the assessment process will be communicated to the school authority in due course.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

255 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will sanction capital funding for four new permanent classrooms at a school (details supplied) in Clane, County Kildare. [22576/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the school to which he refers has recently been approved capital funding on a devolved basis for three additional classrooms. The school has the option of purchasing or building this accommodation.

Teaching Qualifications

Beverley Flynn

Question:

256 Deputy Beverley Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if time spent working as a teacher in Youthreach will be taken into account for incremental credit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22582/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The Scheme for the award of incremental credit to recognised teachers in Second Level Schools was agreed under the auspices of the Teachers' Conciliation Council, a body established in accordance with the terms of the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme for Teachers. The Scheme is currently set out in consolidated format in Department Circular 29/2007. Any individual application for the award of incremental credit will be considered under the terms of the aforementioned Circular. If the Deputy wishes to provide further specific detail in this case my Department will be pleased to examine the individual case further.

School Transport

Frank Feighan

Question:

257 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the review of school transport boundaries; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22614/10]

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy Seán Haughey)

As the Deputy is aware, in line with the commitment in the Programme for Government, the review of the catchment boundaries formed part of the Value for Money Review of the School Transport Scheme. The report of the Value for Money Review of the School Transport Scheme is being finalised.

Student Support Schemes

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

258 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the procedure to be put in place regarding the payment of registration or tuition fees for students applying for the back to education allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22623/10]

Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The Deputy will be aware that the current difficult economic circumstances have necessitated tough choices to control public expenditure and to ensure sustainability in the long run. In these circumstances, from September 2010, as announced in the Budget, all new applicants who are in receipt of the Back to Education Allowance (BTEA), and the VTOS allowances for those pursuing PLC courses, will be ineligible for student maintenance grants. The cost of the student services charge and any fees payable to colleges will continue to be met for eligible students by the Exchequer on their behalf.

Students currently in receipt of the BTEA or VTOS allowances and the maintenance grant will continue to be eligible for both payments for the duration of their current course provided they continue to meet the terms and conditions of the relevant grant schemes. Students progressing to a new course with effect from 2010/11 will no longer be eligible for student maintenance grants but can apply for assistance towards the cost of the student services charge and any fees payable.

Although BTEA students progressing to a new course or new applicants who are in receipt of the BTEA will no longer be able to hold the maintenance portion of the student grant in addition to the BTEA, they may still submit a student grant application to establish entitlement to payment of the student service charge or tuition fees from my Department. Where a student has indicated that they are currently on the BTEA and are progressing to a new course their application will be assessed to establish their eligibility for the student service charge and tuition fees.

Where a student has indicated on the application form that they have applied for the BTEA, the application will be processed as normal and the registration fee and tuition fees (where applicable) will be paid on behalf of eligible students to the relevant institution. The maintenance portion of the grant will be held until such time as the student can confirm that they have received a decision from the Department of Social Protection in relation to the BTEA.