Vol. 713 No. 3
9 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the interaction she has had with the National Asset Management Agency or with other Departments on the impact NAMA now has on the hotel industry; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that NAMA is effectively the largest hotelier here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27225/10]
Tackling the over-capacity that undoubtedly exists in the hotel sector at present is complex and, ideally, requires a market led response over time. As I have said in reply to earlier Questions, 2010 is likely to be another tough year in the hotel sector, with further adjustments taking place as the market responds to excess room supply. The current position is that NAMA completed the transfer of its first tranche of loans of about €15 billion from the banks at the end of May. According to NAMA, the transfer of the second tranche of loans is set to commence shortly. Their aim is to transfer the remaining loans from the five institutions by the end of the year and no later than end February 2011.
The transfers completed so far included approximately €300 million worth of hotel backed loans. The process at this stage will be that the borrowers will provide NAMA with a business plan. This will cover all property and other loans including those to the hotel sector where appropriate. These plans will then fall to be evaluated and, if appropriate, reviewed by an independent reviewer, and negotiations with the debtors will then follow. This will allow for a proper assessment of the likely future performance of these loans. NAMA say it will take some time, including the transfer of the remaining loans before a clearer picture emerges relating to NAMA's exposure to the hotel sector.
I will be encouraging NAMA, through my colleague the Minister for Finance, to take a strategic approach to the hotel sector, to build up their own expertise in this area and to consult with sectoral interests, including the Irish Hotels Federation whom I have already met on this subject. I have not had any direct interaction with NAMA to date, but would intend to meet them in the future on behalf of the hotel sector.
10 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the number of sports inclusion disability officers employed in the local sports partnerships; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27246/10]
The Irish Sports Council (ISC), which is funded by my Department, is the statutory body responsible for the promotion, development and coordination of sport. The ISC was established on a statutory basis on 1st July 1999, and the functions of the Council are outlined in Section 6 of the Irish Sports Council Act 1999. A network of 32 Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs) have been set up throughout the country by the ISC to coordinate and promote sport at local level especially amongst specific target groups such as older people, girls and women, people with disabilities, unemployed people, and those who live in identified disadvantaged communities.
There are currently seventeen Sports Inclusion Development Officers (SIDOs) employed within the LSPs to engage with people with a disability and bring them into the community of sport. The ISC's decision to allocate continued funding for this programme in 2010 was based on the vital work that is being carried out by SIDOs throughout the country. Through the SIDO programme a wide range of sports clubs, leisure, education and community centres have developed inclusive policies and implemented guidelines with regard to inclusion and access for people with disabilities. Disability awareness programmes have been rolled out in co-operation with education providers. Increased awareness levels have translated into more inclusive promotion of sporting activities and the active participation of people with a disability in mainstream programmes.
LSPs delivered over 100 Disability Awareness and Inclusive Games Training courses in 2009. Over 2,500 participants took part making these courses the most popular training courses run by LSPs last year. A range of innovative approaches have been employed by the LSPs to increase the participation levels of people with a disability. Examples include tandem cycling, hill-walking, swimming and horse-riding. New targeted projects and access initiatives were established in 2009 and these will continue in 2010. I believe that the SIDOs sanctioned by the ISC to continue working in 2010 will assist in making a practical difference to the lives of very many people who have found barriers to their engagement in sport.
11 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if she will provide an update on the establishment of the national opera company; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27186/10]
The decision to found Irish National Opera was announced by my predecessor in December last. The new Irish company will receive part of its income from the State as grant aid and it will be expected to generate the balance of its operating costs. Grant-aid to two existing companies — Opera Ireland and Opera Theatre Company — will cease once the new company is up and running as their activities will be subsumed by it. These companies, between them, cover much of the range of artistic work that would be expected from a national opera company. At present, Opera Ireland produces main-scale opera in Dublin, while Opera Theatre Company produces smaller-scale opera, both in Dublin and throughout the State, as well as operating outreach and education programmes.
An Interim Board, chaired by Mr Ray Bates, former Director of the National Lottery was appointed. The Chairs of the two existing companies, Ms Virginia Kerr of Opera Theatre Company, and Mr Thomas Lynch of Opera Ireland, are members of the Interim Board as is Sir Brian McMaster, Chairman of the National Opera Studio in the UK and former Managing Director at the Welsh National Opera. To assist in transitional arrangements, the Chief Executives of Opera Ireland and Opera Theatre Company, Mr Niall Doyle and Ms Kirsty Harris, respectively, served on the Interim Board for a period of three months and this period is now complete.
I met the Chairman (twice) and the Interim Board in recent weeks. I understand that considerable progress has been made on company formation, start-up logistics, programming planning, and so forth. In addition, two opera specialists of international repute have been engaged to advise the Department, the Arts Council, and the Interim Board and to guide formation and other activities. Opera Ireland and Opera Theatre Company are continuing their work throughout 2010, as agreed with the Arts Council to deliver their agreed respective artistic outputs for all of 2010.
12 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the discussions she has had with the Minister for Justice and Law Reform regarding the difficulties surrounding visa arrangements for visitors from emerging markets; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27212/10]
Foreign visitors to Ireland from many of the countries identified as "New and Developing Markets" require visas to enter Ireland. Tourism Ireland's review of New and Developing Markets — including India, China and 17 other markets — in late 2007, found that visitors from these markets stay twice as long as the average holidaymaker, have the highest spend per visit and have a higher propensity to travel throughout the island of Ireland. The review also highlighted the potential for increased tourism from Asia and the Middle East and set significant targets — to attract a total of 475,000 visitors from New and Developing Markets by 2013. While these targets were set in a very different global economic context, they highlight the long-term potential of these markets.
To exploit fully the opportunities presented, Ireland needs to be competitive on all fronts. Clearly, the ability of potential visitors to secure the necessary visas in an efficient and cost-effective manner is an important element of our competitiveness. In that context, the relevant Recovery Actions recommended by the Tourism Renewal Group in its Framework for Action put forward several options to explore, having regard to the complexity of immigration policy and administration.
As the Deputy will be aware, immigration policy is primarily a matter for my colleague the Minister for Justice and Law Reform and its implementation is a matter for the relevant authorities, including the Garda National Immigration Bureau and the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service. My Department has engaged with the Department of Justice and Law Reform in relation to these and related issues on an ongoing basis, most recently while following up on the Report of the Tourism Renewal Group. I have also written directly to my colleague the Minister for Justice and Law Reform, Dermot Ahern TD, on the matter. Furthermore, following on from his address to the Irish Hotels Federation at the beginning of March, An Taoiseach, Brian Cowen TD, has also asked the Department of Justice and Law Reform to explore practical solutions to the current difficulties.
In addition to contact at Ministerial and Departmental level, I understand that Tourism Ireland has been engaged in active dialogue with the Departments of Justice and Law Reform and Foreign Affairs to develop a visa strategy in relation to tourism and to try to progress certain administrative measures to facilitate tourism from New and Developing Markets. For example, following a meeting between Tourism Ireland and the Department of Justice in April, I understand that good progress has been made in relation to ADS (Approved Destination Status) groups visiting from China, including the waiving of visa fees to Ireland for groups who already have a UK visa. I am also advised that it is no longer necessary for a visitor from China to provide a notarised certificate showing they have no criminal record.
Tourism Ireland also liaises closely with the visa offices in all of its overseas markets in relation to the level of demand for visas to Ireland and other shared operational issues. This year, Tourism Ireland, in conjunction with the visa offices in markets such as China and India, is running visa training seminars for the travel trade. The Deputy will appreciate that migration and border controls are complex and sensitive, affecting not only tourism of various kinds but also labour market policies and inward investment, within the overall context of sovereignty. However, I am confident that, working in partnership, the immigration authorities and the tourism bodies can ensure that the visitor experiences of Ireland compare well with any of our competitors.
13 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the discussions she has had with the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources on the issue of broadband penetration and the effects this is having on tourism operators, particularly in rural areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27233/10]
Since my appointment last March as Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport I have not had the opportunity to meet with the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources to specifically discuss access to broadband facilities, although I obviously meet with all of my Cabinet colleagues on a very regular basis. The matter of broadband access has however, been raised on a number of occasions at official level since the publication of the Tourism Renewal Group's report in October 2009.
As the Deputy will appreciate, the provision of telecommunications services, including broadband services, is a matter for electronic communications service providers who operate in a fully liberalised market. In cases of market failure the Government will intervene, where appropriate and possible. I am informed by my colleague, the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, that Government policy relating to the electronic communications market in Ireland is set out in "Next Generation Broadband — Gateway to a Knowledge Ireland", which was published by him in June 2009.
The Government has undertaken a number of initiatives to bring broadband to those parts of the country where operators have been unable to offer services on a commercial basis and the roll out of the National Broadband Scheme is progressing. I can assure the Deputy that the Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport is fully conscious of the importance of broadband connectivity to tourism businesses and will continue to highlight this to the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.
14 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the amount of capital funding given to an organisation (details supplied) in each of the past ten years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27249/10]
In 2004, Comhaltas Ceoltoirí Éireann launched a five-year Capital Development Programme with the aim of enhancing its network of regional development resource centres and outreach centres around the country, in order to build on and support its existing activities. Following consultations between my Department, the Department of Finance and the Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs, a Capital Development Programme was agreed. Since 2005, my Department has paid capital grants each year in respect of works to Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann projects as set out in the table below.
|
Year |
Amount |
|
€ |
|
|
2001-2004 |
Nil |
|
2005 |
500,001 |
|
2006 |
3,300,000 |
|
2007 |
7,099,668 |
|
2008 |
4,744,763 |
|
2009 |
106,187 |
|
2010 |
946,600 |
|
Total |
16,697,219 |
The payments were in respect of 13 projects located in 9 counties across Ireland as follows:
Clare Cois na hAbhna, Ennis, St Senan's, Kilrush and Ennistymon;
Cork Brú na Sí, Youghal;
Dublin Cultúrlann, Monkstown and Classac, Clontarf;
Kerry Ceolann, Lixnaw;
Louth Dundalk Gaol;
Sligo Morrison Cottage, Riverstown and Coleman Centre, Gurteen;
Tipperary Brú Boru, Cashel;
Tyrone Dun Uladh, Omagh;
Westmeath Dún na Sí, Moate.
Each of these centres contributes to the promotion of Irish traditional music and dancing, traditional singing in both Irish and English and the Irish Language.
16 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport when she will publish the report relating to the Irish Sports Council and Athletics Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27216/10]
28 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if she will publish the report from the Irish Sports Council into the events that took place within the Athletics Association of Ireland that led to legal action; the reforms she envisages, if any, for the future funding and governance structures within the Irish Sports Council and the sports governing bodies who receive funding through the Irish Sports Council; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27234/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 16 and 28 together.
My Department has sought the advice of the Attorney General's Office regarding the publication of the report referred to by the Deputies and I am currently considering the advice received. As I have previously stated in the House, from a legal perspective, I have no role in the day to day operations of the ISC. Under Section 9 of the Irish Sports Council Act 1999, the Council has to have regard to Government policy and to comply with any general policy directive which may be given by me as the Minister but is not under my control. The Council is established as a corporate entity with legal personality and is responsible for its own activities.
However, there is a need to learn from this issue about the relationship between the ISC and the national governing bodies of sport, about the interaction between them and whether other processes should be used. I am always in favour of using mediation processes where they are available, irrespective of the difficulties, and avoid recourse to the courts if at all possible. At meetings I have had with the Irish Sports Council, I have made it clear to them that I believe that mediation should always be used in the first instance.
17 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the estimated cost and the duration of the remedial works to improve the storage facilities for the National Archives; the estimated cost of an investment in the storage facility in order to fully incorporate it into the archives facilities; if there is a risk of putting national records and archives in jeopardy due to insufficient or substandard storage facilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27243/10]
The detailed information sought by the Deputy is a matter for the Commissioners of Public Works to supply when they have finalised costed proposals and estimates to remedy the National Archives storage provision. In relation to the National Archives from the policy perspective, I would refer the Deputy to my answer to Questions Nos. 42 and 43 of 19th May last.
The principal National Archives storage accommodation is located at its Headquarters offices at Bishop Street and at the Four Courts. It is acknowledged that the National Archives suffers from a long-standing storage challenge on a constrained site. While efforts have been made to accommodate the State records within its Bishop Street premises, the storage accommodation currently available there does not meet accepted archival standards. Despite this situation, the Director and his staff have made herculean efforts with the cooperation of the OPW to ensure that archives are protected from damage or deterioration.
As I indicated on 19th May my Department has asked OPW to investigate the avenues now open for the provision of additional storage facilities to the National Archives either within the current footprint of the warehouse or in the context of the provision of a new archival building. These considerations have become more complex following proposals to merge the National Archives of Ireland, National Library of Ireland and the Irish Manuscripts Commission, and a determination as to whether or not all these institutions, once merged, should be housed together or separately.
The cost and the duration of the remedial works to improve the storage facilities for the National Archives, and the estimated cost of an investment in the storage facility so as to fully incorporate it into the archives facilities can not be determined until it is established whether these facilities will be provided in situ in the Bishop Street premises, off-site in a separate storage facility or elsewhere as part of a newly merged body. The provision of such facilities may only be explored within the context of the current budgetary situation and the overall capital priorities of Government.
18 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the discussions she has had with the national cultural institutions to extend their opening times, particularly during the summer period; the estimated cost of opening late twice a week and for a half day on Monday; the steps that she has taken to promote the national museums here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27231/10]
Whilst my Department provides funding to the National Cultural Institutions, the Board of each Institution is responsible for all operational matters relating to the institution, including opening hours, and I do not have a statutory function in respect of day-to-day operational matters.
The opening hours at the National Cultural Institutions is a matter which is kept routinely under review by the institutions. These bodies are now operating in a much changed financial situation and with reduced Exchequer resources. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the National Archives, the National Library of Ireland, the National Gallery of Ireland, and the Crawford Art Gallery Cork already open for a full day on Mondays and, therefore, the question of extending opening times to include Mondays does not arise in their case. Similarly, for the summer period (from 1 May to 30 September) the Chester Beatty Library also opens on Mondays. The National Gallery and the Crawford Art Gallery Cork also remain open late on Thursdays. The National Library remains open until 9.00pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The National Concert Hall is, of course, open in the evenings. All the institutions are open at weekends.
Based on information received from the Institutions, my Department estimates that the extension of late opening hours two evenings a week and opening for a half day on Mondays to all of our National Cultural Institutions would cost in the region of an additional €1.3 million a year. This additional funding would be difficult to secure at the current time. My Department continues to consult with our National Cultural Institutions in relation to this matter and actively encourages the provision of additional public access within current budgetary constraints. My Department has also provided funding since 2006 toward Culture Night, when all our National Cultural Institutions remain open until late in the evening, allowing people access to our national collections outside of regular visiting hours.
19 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the total direct Exchequer funding into a project (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27248/10]
The Carlow Visual Centre for Contemporary Art project received funding of €3.17 million from my Department's ACCESS programme. The funding was a contribution towards the construction of a new custom built visual arts centre for large scale artworks and studio space for artists. The project has received critical acclaim and won the RIAI's award for Best Cultural Building, 2010. The total project cost was €18 million. The balance of the funding came from Carlow County Council and fundraising through private sources.
20 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport her views on whether there is greater scope for her Department to engage in the investigation of shared services between agencies that fall under the aegis of her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27172/10]
My Department to date has taken a range of measures to optimise the use of resources across its agencies. There has been considerable re-organisation of tourism structures in the last decade, including the establishment of Tourism Ireland, Fáilte Ireland and the re-organisation of regional tourism structures. These organisations are aware of the need to ensure maximum return on the funds received from the Exchequer, and this is reflected in the close co-operation between the agencies in their operations as well as in their business planning.
In the culture sector, my Department has already considered the benefits that might accrue from the sharing of back-office services. As a consequence, by Government decision, the National Archives, National Library of Ireland and Irish Manuscripts Commission will be amalgamated into a new body, with enabling legislation currently under preparation in my Department. It is anticipated that the amalgamation will provide for a more effective use of resources, particularly in the human resource, corporate and information technology sections of these bodies. The National Library of Ireland and the National Museum of Ireland have already outsourced their financial functions, including payroll, to the Financial Shared Services Division of the Department of Justice and Law Reform.
In relation to the proposal to combine the Irish Museum of Modern Art, Crawford Art Gallery and National Gallery of Ireland while retaining their separate identities, consideration is being given to the amalgamation of the back-of-house services of the National Gallery of Ireland and the Crawford Art Gallery. Finally, Culture Ireland is to remain part of the Department rather than be established as a statutory agency and, therefore, continues to avail of the Department's corporate support functions.
In the case of the sports sector, it was decided not to proceed with the establishment of the Institute of Sport as a separate entity, so it continues to operate as part of the Irish Sports Council and to avail of its existing support functions. I can assure the Deputy that my Department will examine the scope for any possible further sharing of services in the context of the implementation of the Public Service Agreement 2010-2014, with a view to optimising the use of resources.
22 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the discussions she has had with the Minister for Finance regarding the reformation of the artists’ tax exemption scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27242/10]
Under the Artists Tax Exemption Scheme, the income accruing to a writer, composer, visual artist or sculptor from the publication, production or sale of his/her work is exempt from income tax. The Exemption applies to income tax only and does not extend to VAT. Subsequent to the publication of the Report of the Commission on Taxation last year, my Department engaged extensively with the Department of Finance on this issue.
The Finance Act, 2010, introduced a number of changes which restrict the Artists' Exemption (as well as the use of other specified tax reliefs). A new entry level threshold of €125, 000 at which the High Income Individuals Restriction applies, was introduced from the 2010 tax year. In addition, the effective rate of income tax for high-income individuals who are fully subject to the restriction, increases from 20% to 30%. This occurs when adjusted income reached €400,000. These changes reduce further the number of high earners who benefit from the Artists Exemption. As the Deputy is aware, the vast majority of those benefiting from the Artists Exemption have exempt earnings equivalent to or lower than the annual income tax exemption limit of €20,000.
23 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if the National Sports Campus Development Authority has submitted an annual report for 2009; if she will outline any financial liabilities documented in the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27160/10]
I have been informed by the NSCDA that the annual accounts of the Authority are currently being audited by the C&AG. Upon completion of the audit and sign off on the accounts by the C&AG, I expect to receive a copy of the annual report and financial statements for 2009 from the Authority. In accordance with the legislation copies of the report will be laid before each House of the Oireachtas.
24 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the supports granted by her Department to the video game industries; if she will support the amendment of the Irish Film Board Act in order to extend to the film board responsibility for promoting, supporting and developing the video game industry here; the discussions she has had with the Minister of Finance on extending the section 481 tax incentives to the video gaming industry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27230/10]
Primary responsibility for the support and promotion of film-making in Ireland in respect of both the indigenous sector and inward productions lies with the Irish Film Board (IFB). The Irish Film Board is funded by my Department but it is independent of the Department in its operations. An Audiovisual Content Production Industry Strategy Framework Group was established by my Department last year. This group will assist in providing a clear vision for the future of the industry and a response to market changes. The whole area of development of the Irish audiovisual industry (including the computer/video games sector) is being examined by the Group. I anticipate receipt of the report in the early Autumn.
25 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if an assessment on the roof of the National Gallery has been undertaken; the estimated cost of these repairs; if these repairs will commence in 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27247/10]
34 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the progress made on the master plan for the National Gallery of Ireland; the estimated cost of this project; when she expects to submit this for planning permission; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27256/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 25 and 34 together.
Remedial and refurbishment works are to be carried out in the National Gallery of Ireland, specifically to the Dargan and Milltown Wings. Problems with the existing roofs in the historic buildings of the National Gallery have been apparent for some time and they need extensive repair. The existing roof lights, replaced in the 1940s, need to be upgraded also. The proposed works will improve the existing conditions, upgrade the daylight control systems in the exhibition spaces and will provide better thermal performance of the roof. It is anticipated that the works will commence in October 2010. These works will be funded from the Vote of the Office of Public Works and as they are currently the subject of a competitive tendering process it would undermine the competitiveness of that process to publicly reveal OPW's in house working estimate of the likely cost of these works. A pre qualification notice was published on www.etenders.gov.ie on 8 June 2010 and on the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) on 10 June 2010 in connection with the Main and Specialist Contractors with a return deadline of 12 July 2010.
The works on the roofs of the historic buildings, which will take about two years, is part of Phase 1 of the Master Development Plan for the National Gallery. The remainder of the Phase 1 works are dependent on the availability of funding. We will endeavour to coincide them with the roof works to remaximise economies of scale and cost, optimizate mobilization of construction teams and minimize gallery closures. I am fully supportive of the Gallery and the Office of Public Works in undertaking this project. The National Gallery plays an integral part in the cultural life and tourism economy of this State. This project is necessary to ensure that the historic buildings and the collections of the Gallery are protected for future generations. In addition, any enhancement of a national cultural institution also enhances the experience available to visitors.
26 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if she plans to review the semi-State bodies operating under her aegis in the area of tourism; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27241/10]
The remit of the Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport in relation to tourism is to support the growth of a competitive and sustainable tourism industry, enhancing its contribution to national economic and social goals, through the development, implementation and influencing of a range of policy actions and programmes by the Department, its Agencies and other Government Departments, in consultation with industry partners.
There has been a major reform of Irish tourism structures in the last decade with the setting up of Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland as well as reform of the function, role and operational aspects of regional structures. Fáilte Ireland was established under the National Tourism Development Authority Act 2003, following the amalgamation of Bord Fáilte Éireann and CERT, to encourage, promote and support tourism. Its primary functions are the development of quality tourism product, domestic tourism marketing, tourism standards, enterprise support, capability building and human resource development for the tourism industry. Fáilte Ireland makes a vital contribution to the tourism industry in Ireland in delivering on its various functions. Substantial new tourism product has been rolled out, the grading and classification systems for all categories of accommodation, including hotels, has been updated, domestic tourism has increased and many trainees have been skilled to a high standard to enable them to deliver a quality customer service to holidaymakers in Ireland.
As part of the Good Friday Agreement, tourism was designated an area for cooperation under the North-South Ministerial Council. In December 1998, the parties to the Agreement decided that a publicly owned limited company would be established by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and the then Bord Fáilte Éireann to carry out functions related to the promotion of tourism to the island of Ireland. The company, Tourism Ireland Limited, was formally incorporated on 11 December 2000. Tourism Ireland is accountable to the North South Ministerial Council with funding for its operations being provided by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment in Northern Ireland and by the Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport in the South. The primary remit of the company is to promote the island of Ireland as a tourist destination in overseas markets.
Tourism Ireland is generally regarded as being highly effective, by its international peers as well as the tourism industry on the island. The company works closely with Fáilte Ireland, NITB, and the tourism industry in delivering its remit. In summary, Tourism Ireland's role is to maximise the number of visitors coming to the island of Ireland from overseas while Fáilte Ireland's role is to market both domestically and in Northern Ireland and to ensure that the tourism experience in the South is to the highest possible standard. I am satisfied that both organisations have key complementary roles to play in sustaining the valuable contribution of tourism to Ireland's economy.
Turning to the regional level, five Regional Tourism Authorities passed resolutions during the summer of 2006 to dissolve. The staff, property and responsibilities of these authorities were subsumed into Fáilte Ireland with new Regional Tourism Development Boards being established in each area. In the case of Dublin, an autonomous body — Dublin Tourism — remains in place. This is in recognition of Dublin's position as a capital city competing with other European cities for city break visitors. Within the context of the wider changes at regional level, the Memorandum and Articles of Association of Dublin Tourism were substantially altered to address corporate governance issues, to clarify its future role and its relationships with Fáilte Ireland and it is now a subsidiary of Fáilte Ireland.
Shannon Development is the Regional Tourism Authority for the Shannon Region which includes Clare, Limerick, North Tipperary and South Offaly. However, the Region, as is the case with other regions, has a Regional Tourism Development Board. This Board works closely with the executive of Shannon Development and the main Board of Shannon Development on tourism matters. The Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport provides funding to Shannon Development to fund promotional and tourism related activities throughout the Shannon Region, although the bulk of its funding is provided through its own resources income.
I would also draw the Deputy's attention to the report of the Tourism Renewal Group which was published last October. In his foreword to the report the chairman of the group noted that, in the course of a very wide ranging consultation across the sector, general satisfaction at the performance and delivery of the primary State sector tourism agencies, Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland, was a consistent theme. I am satisfied that the institutional framework — while appearing complex — for delivering services to the tourism industry has served us well to date. At the same time, it is important that the strategic framework for tourism development is flexible enough to respond to the changing economic environment and in this regard the tourism framework is the subject of regular review to ensure it is fit for purpose.
27 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport when additional records will be added to a website (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27250/10]
In November 2009, the website www.irishgenealogy.ie was relaunched to include a search facility for the Church records of Baptism, Marriage and Burial for Dublin City and County Kerry. On Wednesday 16th June 2010 I had the pleasure of launching further Church records on this site (along with His Grace, Dr John R.W. Neill Archbishop of Dublin). These additional records include Church of Ireland records for Dublin City, Counties Carlow and Kerry and Roman Catholic Records for the County and City of Cork. The website www.irishgenealogy.ie now hosts over 2 million records of Church Baptism, Marriage and Burial from Counties Carlow, Kerry, Cork and Dublin City. Work is currently ongoing to add up to a further 1 million Church Baptism, Marriage and Burial records from Dublin City and County Cork and this work should be completed substantially by end 2010 and will then be added to this website.
The records which I recently launched also have the corresponding image of the original entry in the Baptism, Marriage or Burial register available to view. This level of detail, along with the success of the 1901/1911 Census online, will be a significant boost to the "Roots" tourism industry in Ireland, and my Department is working closely with Tourism Ireland to ensure that the availability of these records can act as an incentive to visit Ireland.
29 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if she will outline the number of projects she has put in place in the area of tourism, culture and sport with a view to focusing on economic benefits achievable through the media of tourism, culture and sport thus contributing to economic expansion and recovery; if she will outline the extent to which she has given instructions in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27141/10]
187 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the extent to which she has had discussions with cultural and sporting groups, bodies or agencies with a view to achieving a co-ordinated approach and utilisation of sporting and cultural activities to enhance the national image and consequently assist in economic recovery; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27491/10]
188 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the extent to which she has met with sporting and cultural groups with a view to acceding to the request of such bodies in the context of economic recovery; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27492/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 29, 187 and 188 together.
My Department and its associated Agencies and Bodies have fully or partially funded thousands of projects in the tourism, culture and sport sectors, details of which can be found on the Department's corporate website at www.tcs.gov.ie or on the websites of the relevant Agencies. I also meet on an ongoing basis, with tourism, culture and sport interests, including public and private agencies and bodies, with a view to enhancing our national image and promoting sustainable economic development.
Tourism is a key element of the Government's wider strategy for economic renewal, and this was reflected in Budget 2010. The overall tourism services budget was increased by 3% from the 2009 outturn to more than €153 million. Tourism has also been included in cross-cutting measures to support enterprises and jobs, including the Employment Subsidy Scheme and the Credit Review System. Additional specific measures, such as changes in alcohol excise duties and VAT and the innovative rail travel initiative for senior citizens, will also enhance the sector.
To assist the tourism sector, an extensive range of marketing, product development, festival and sporting events, and training and business supports are being put in place by the tourism State agencies under the tourism services budget of the Department. In marketing the island of Ireland overseas, Tourism Ireland is focusing on major markets that are likely to deliver immediate returns, including Great Britain, Germany and the US. Tourism Ireland is engaged at present in a huge tactical marketing programme, communicating strong reasons to visit together with clear, price-led messages focusing on the great value to be found here. Earlier this month, I launched a €20 million summer overseas marketing drive designed to win visitors for the peak season.
On the domestic front, Fáilte Ireland has launched a promotional campaign to encourage holidaying at home this year, with a budget of €4 million. Investment in business, sporting and cultural events is also being increased. Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland are also boosting promotion of business tourism in the build up to the opening, later this year, of the national conference centre in Dublin. This state-of-the-art facility will further enhance Ireland's capacity to attract international events. In addition, increased funding has been allocated in 2010 for the continued roll out of Tourism Product Development investment support, leading to the development of improved tourism infrastructure and new and upgraded tourist attractions and activities.
The culture, arts and film sectors are also of huge economic importance, and funding by the Department is crucial to supporting employment in these areas. The Global Irish Economic Forum at Farmleigh recognised that culture is key to Ireland's global reputation and our attractiveness as a place to work, visit and invest. Cultural tourism is a key element of Ireland's tourism industry. The list of top visitor attractions is dominated by natural and built heritage, with festivals and musical and other events also attracting major numbers of attendees.
The level of funding provided by my Department for cultural development will allow for continued progress of projects already approved under the Arts and Culture Capital Enhancement Support Scheme (ACCESS) that commenced in 2001. Under ACCESS, grants totalling more than €85 million have been awarded for the development of 120 projects throughout the country to develop the arts and culture infrastructure. ACCESS has been widely acknowledged as a significant intervention in the provision of quality cultural spaces, and it provides opportunities for local employment as well as attracting cultural tourists to cities and towns throughout the country.
The funding provided by my Department to the Irish Film Board has ensured support to meet the demands of the industry in the areas of project and talent development, training and indigenous film and television production. The industry is a very important one with substantial levels of employment and significant inward investment. The benefits of high levels of film and television production in Ireland include increased international investment in the economy, increased employment in this sector, positive spin-off effects for promoting Ireland as a tourist destination and the improvement of Ireland as a location for all aspects of creative endeavours.
The recent publication by the National Archives, which forms part of my Department, of the 1901 Census Online provides an opportunity to market Ireland as a tourist destination to members of the Irish diaspora who can now find records of their ancestors on the web. Many may simply be interested in visiting Ireland to see where their ancestors came from, while others may wish to carry out more detailed genealogical research in Ireland. During visits to New York and London over the next week, I intend to launch the 1901 Census Online in the United States and Britain, and Tourism Ireland will pursue the opportunity further in forthcoming marketing campaigns.
Allied to this, my Department hosts the website www.irishgenealogy.ie which contains a web-based search facility for the Church records of baptism, marriage and death. On 16 June last, I had the pleasure of launching further Church records on this site made up of Church of Ireland records for Dublin City, Counties Carlow and Kerry and Roman Catholic Records for the County and City of Cork. The website now contains more than 2 million records of Church baptism, marriage and burial from Counties Carlow, Kerry, Cork and Dublin City. Work is currently ongoing to add up to a further 1 million Church baptism, marriage and burial records from Dublin City and County Cork, and this work should be substantially completed by the end of 2010.
To complement cultural tourism initiatives, Culture Ireland's programmes promote Irish arts worldwide, creating new international career and income opportunities which are vital for those working in the Irish cultural sector. Culture Ireland's showcases at global arts events such as the Edinburgh Festivals, Venice Biennale and Arts Presenters Conference in New York not only generate new international work and investment for Irish artists but also position Ireland as a world leader in creativity and cultural innovation.
Sport is also a major contributor to the economy, a contribution which includes sports tourism, ticket sales, subscriptions, the cost of playing sport, together with the purchase of sports equipment and an economic value of time given by volunteers. In addition, the Lansdowne Road Stadium Development Company, which is responsible for the development and management of the new Aviva stadium, intends to hold 50 major sporting events in the stadium over a five-year period, which is estimated to generate €2 to 2.5 billion for the economy.
In terms of employment, the Irish Sports Council, through its grant funding, supports a large number of jobs throughout the country, including in the order of 1,500 jobs created through the National Governing Bodies of Sport and the Local Sports Partnerships. The Department's capital expenditure on sport is also a major contributor to employment. It is estimated that the 2009 capital expenditure on the Sports Capital Programme leveraged direct employment of more than 1,700 and indirect employment in the region of 600. Further employment is created through investment in the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme and major projects such as the redevelopment of the Lansdowne Road Stadium.
It is evident that through the initiatives/projects supported both at Department and Agency level that the tourism, culture and sport sectors are contributing greatly to the economy of the country.
31 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the number of meetings she has had with Bord Scannán na hÉireann since she assumed her role in the Department; her plans to support the film industry here; the discussions she has had with the Irish Film Board over the popularity of home produced cinema at the box office; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that often films can be designated Irish when they may not be deserving of this title for a number of reasons; her views on whether the amount invested into Irish cinema represents value for money; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27228/10]
Primary responsibility for the support and promotion of film-making in Ireland in respect of both the indigenous sector and inward productions is a matter for the Irish Film Board (IFB). This agency is funded through my Department and is independent of the Department in its operations. In terms of value for money, it is worth pointing out that three of the nominations for Academy Awards earlier this year were for projects that were funded by the Irish Film Board and that employment in the Irish audiovisual content production industry was established at over 6,500 in a review carried out for the Irish Film Board.
An Audiovisual Content Production Industry Strategy Framework Group was established last year that will assist in providing a clear vision for the future of the industry and response to market changes. I anticipate receipt of that report in the early Autumn. Since I was appointed Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, I have met the Chairman and executives of the Irish Film Board. The Irish Film Board has confirmed to me any films designated as Irish, have to meet the relevant co-production treaty rules.
32 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the number of occasions on which she visited her departmental headquarters in Killarney, County Kerry, since her appointment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27254/10]
Since my appointment as Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport on 23 March, 2010, I visited the Department's headquarters in Killarney on one occasion, on the 21st May, 2010. I have also held a number of meetings with Killarney-based staff using the department's video conferencing facilities. I am impressed by how effectively the Department operates from a decentralised location which is only possible with the full co-operation and flexibility of staff. I was also impressed by the new building in Killarney which is located in a very convenient and accessible location in the centre of town. As well as offering very high quality office accommodation for the staff, it is a "green" building with many environmentally friendly and energy saving features.
33 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if she will list the duties and responsibilities of the staff employed in her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27235/10]
In respect of the achievement of the goals, objectives and actions set out in my Department's Statement of Strategy 2008-2010, the duties and responsibilities of staff at Assistant Principal Officer grade and above are as set out in the Department’s Business Plan 2010, available on its website at www.tcs.gov.ie. Staff below the grade of Assistant Principal Officer act as support staff with respect to these duties and responsibilities. A detailed outline of the functions and activities of the Department, as well as an organisation chart of senior management, is also set out in the Department’s website at www.tcs.gov.ie. The total number of staff currently serving in my Department, including the National Archives, is 154 which has been reduced from 174 over the last two years.
35 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport when the expenditure review of the ACCESS programme will be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27255/10]
A review of the ACCESS programme is included as part of the Government's Value for Money and Policy Review Initiative. This review is currently being conducted and it is intended to have the review completed by year end.
36 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the steps she has taken at Government level and within business and public sectors to reinforce the importance of the arts and culture from a societal and economic perspective; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27244/10]
Government Policy on the Arts is set out in the Programme for Government and further elaborated in my Department's Statement of Strategy. My policy is to promote and strengthen the arts, culture and creative sectors in all their forms, increase access to and participation in them, and make the arts an integral and valued part of our national life — socially and economically. It is my aim to continue to implement this policy directly through my own Department and to support the Arts Council, the Film Board, Culture Ireland and our National Cultural Institutions, working within the financial and other resources available to me.
The arts and culture sectors are vibrant and vital sectors of our economy; the wellspring, I believe, of many of our creative and innovative enterprises. These sectors are primary economic contributors, real businesses, enduring employers, and differentiators of us as a cultural and tourist destination. Arts and culture continue to be a uniquely powerful door-opener for Ireland internationally, especially in the United States. Following the Global Economic Forum in Farmleigh last year there has been a special focus at Government level to maximise the opportunities presented by the success of Ireland's artists to use culture as a calling card for Ireland and Irish business.
In that context, in March of this year, the Taoiseach appointed actor Gabriel Byrne as a Cultural Ambassador for Ireland. Culture Ireland is working closely with Gabriel Byrne in promoting Irish arts and culture in the United States and, in particular, in planning a major year-long programme of Irish arts which will take place in the US in 2011. This year, Culture Ireland has organised a strategic programme of cultural collaborations between Irish and Chinese artists and institutions to mark the Shanghai World Expo.
Our National Cultural Institutions continue to attract large numbers of visitors and are an important component of Ireland's business and cultural tourism product. In 2009, over 3 million people visited Cultural Institutions funded by my Department. The National Gallery is in the top 25 Galleries in Europe and visitor numbers to the National Museum surpass many illustrious contemporary museums in Europe and the USA. I am glad to say that visitor numbers to our cultural institutions are continuing to grow this year. Indeed, in the month after its re-opening the Natural History Museum had over 23,000 visitors.
37 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if she will provide the sources of funding to ensure that swimming pools in the Dublin area (details supplied) can be kept open; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27257/10]
The question of the operation and management of swimming pools, including advertising, is entirely a matter for Dublin City Council. Under the terms of the current round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme, operated by the Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport grant aid to a maximum of €3.8m is provided to Local Authorities, towards the capital cost of new swimming pools or the refurbishment of existing pools. The current round of the programme closed to applicants on 31 July 2000.
Under the programme, 45 pools have been opened throughout the country with a further 12 pools at various stages of development. Between 1998 and 2009 a sum of almost €143m has been spent under the programme. This has leveraged a total investment of almost €400m in swimming pools throughout the country. In the administrative area of Dublin City Council, new pools have been opened in Finglas, Ballyfermot, St. Michael's House (Belcamp Lane Dublin), Ballymun and work is underway on a new pool at Rathmines.
The funding which is available to the Department relates to meeting the capital cost of either a new build or refurbishment of swimming pools. Under the terms of the programme local authorities must meet the costs of normal maintenance and the annual operational costs of swimming pools from their own resources. I have suggested to the Dublin City Manager that in the light of the new pools which have recently been developed and which have the potential to generate funds, perhaps the Council will be able to increase its subsidy to the pools at Coolock, Sean Mac Dermott Street and Crumlin so that these facilities can continue to be available to the residents in these areas.
38 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the number of applications to the mid-Shannon tourism infrastructure investment scheme; the number of successful applications and the estimated amount of tax to be foregone; if a cohesive plan has been developed to ensure that the region as a whole benefits from this incentive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27252/10]
The Mid-Shannon Tourism Infrastructure Investment Scheme, which was introduced in section 29 of the Finance Act 2007 and launched in June 2008, provides tax incentives for investment in tourism attractions and facilities in the designated Mid-Shannon Corridor. The approval and certification of projects under the Scheme is a matter for the Mid-Shannon Tourism Infrastructure Board in accordance with guidelines issued by the Minister with responsibility for the tourism portfolio, in consultation with the Minister for Finance. The Mid-Shannon Board and the executive teams within Fáilte Ireland and Shannon Development have extensively promoted the Scheme since its commencement.
I am advised that, to date, a total of seven applications have been submitted to Fáilte Ireland and Shannon Development for consideration under the Scheme. Five have been approved to date. The cost to the Exchequer of projects under the Scheme, based on a strict assessment, are in effect nil to date as only one project has reached construction stage. It is not possible to assess the tax foregone as the project is not yet operational and the final certified construction costs are not available to date.
In considering projects for approval, the Mid-Shannon Board is required under the Guidelines for the Scheme to take into consideration all relevant policies and strategies. In particular the promoters of a proposed project must be able to demonstrate to the Board's satisfaction that the proposed project is in accordance with relevant National Tourism Policy (setting out clearly how the proposed project will contribute to policy objectives), in particular, as laid down in New Horizons for Irish Tourism — An Agenda for Action, Fáilte Ireland’s Tourism Product Development Strategy 2007-13 and the Regional Tourism Development Strategies developed by the relevant Regional Tourism Development Boards and Shannon Development which apply to the Qualifying Area.
39 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if she will list the capital schemes in the areas of culture and sport; when these schemes were last open to application; when she expects these schemes to be open for application again; the amount of funding provided through each scheme since its inception which was directly provided by national lottery funding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27229/10]
The information requested in respect of capital schemes operated directly by my Department is as set out in tabular form. It is not possible to disaggregate funding according to source such as the National Lottery, as the proceeds of the Lottery only part-fund elements of the Department's Vote, specifically, grants under the Sports Capital Programme and grants-in-aid provided to the Arts Council and the Irish Sports Council.
|
Name of Capital Scheme |
Last Open to New Applications |
When Open for New Applications |
Total Funding Provided since June 2002 |
|
€ million |
|||
|
Arts and Culture Capital Enhancement Support Scheme (ACCESS)1 |
Year 2006 |
To be decided |
54.2 |
|
Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme1 |
Year 2000 |
To be decided |
128.62 |
|
Sports Capital Programme |
Year 2008 |
To be decided |
552.2 |
1Not part funded by the National Lottery.
2From 1 January 2002.
40 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport her plans to review the future of the sports capital programme to ensure that it does not lead to excess funding being channelled into the constituencies of Ministers as was the case during the previous decade as highlighted by a recent television report (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27236/10]
Under the Sports Capital Programme funding is allocated to sporting and to voluntary and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. All applications received under the Programme are assessed on an individual basis by the Department in accordance with a detailed set of assessment criteria as specified in the guidelines, terms and conditions that accompany the application form for the Programme. These criteria include the likelihood to increase participation and performance in sport, priority of the proposed facility vis a vis existing facilities, disadvantaged status, level of own funding available etc.
Every effort is made to achieve a balanced geographical spread of funds throughout the country, while also affording priority to projects in areas of social and economic disadvantage, and facilitating investment in facilities of regional and national strategic importance. In this regard, the assessment process also takes into account factors such as the number and quality of the applications received, the amount of funding being sought by each applicant as well as the most recent Census of Population figures.
The level of funding for any county is based on the quality, number and size of the applications, the Deputy will be aware that under the Sports Capital Programme the landscape of sporting facilities throughout the country has changed significantly with a range of modern well equipped and well managed facilities now in place. Since 1998 an amount of €73m has been allocated under the Programme to 7,400 projects. Work on the National Sports Facilities Strategy 2010-2015, which will provide an improved policy platform for any future rounds of the Programme, is at an advanced stage of preparation in my Department. I expect to receive the draft Strategy shortly. Any future rounds will also be informed by the national audit of local sports facilities that is currently underway.
42 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the progress made to date regarding the Dublin Contemporary 2011 art event; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27245/10]
Dublin Contemporary 2011 (DC2011) is a proposal to host an internationally recognised and acclaimed contemporary art exhibition/event in Dublin in 2011. The project can be described broadly as a major exhibition of leading and emerging Irish and international contemporary art at a number of landmark venues in Dublin city centre, over a period of 8 weeks from September 6th 2011. The project aims to deliver a vibrant international arts' event, which will showcase excellence in Irish and international contemporary art and will also provide an accessible and tourist friendly route through historical and contemporary Dublin, encouraging tourists and residents alike to engage with galleries, museums and cultural spaces. The official launch of DC2011 is scheduled to take place on 1st of July next.
43 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if consideration has been given whereby low energy light bulbs up to 120 watt can be made available for persons with failing sight; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27499/10]
The Deputy will wish to be aware that low energy light bulbs up to 150 watt are available generally and low energy light bulbs up to 200 watt are available in specialist lighting shops. The following table shows the nearest equivalent CFL and Halogen wattage to an ordinary incandescent bulb.
|
Wattage of your current ordinary bulb |
Nearest equivalent CFL wattage |
Equivalent Halogen wattage |
|
150 watt |
23 watt |
105 watt |
|
100 watt |
20 watt |
70 watt |
|
75 watt |
15 watt |
53 watt |
|
60 watt |
11 watt |
42 watt |
|
40 watt |
9 watt |
28 watt |
44 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation further to a previous parliamentary question regarding staff made redundant from a company (details supplied), if the staff will receive the redundancy payments due to them; when the staff will receive their redundancy; and if he will expedite the matter. [27283/10]
My Department administers the Social Insurance Fund (SIF) in relation to redundancy matters on behalf of the Department of Social and Family Affairs. There are two types of payment made from the SIF — rebates to those employers who have paid statutory redundancy to eligible employees, and statutory lump sums to employees whose employers are insolvent and/or in receivership/liquidation. I can confirm that there are two outstanding lump sum claims for the company concerned which were received by my Department on 30 October, 2009 and 5 November, 2009. In the course of processing the claims in question, queries were raised with the employer and I understand that a response on an outstanding query is awaited.
In general, the documentation required in support of lump sum claims is evidence of the employer's inability to pay the redundancy entitlements to the employees. This involves a statement from the company's Accountant or Solicitor confirming the inability of the company to pay the redundancy entitlements as well as requesting the latest set of financial accounts for the company. The employer is also asked to admit liability for the 40% liability attaching to the company arising from the redundancy payments.
If the required information is provided to the Department, the employees will be paid their redundancy entitlement from the Social Insurance Fund. Upon payment, the Department pursues the company for the 40% share that the company would ordinarily have been expected to pay to the employees.
If the necessary supporting documentation required from the employer is not provided to my Department, the employee will be advised by my Department to take a case to the Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) against the employer to seek a determination establishing the employee's right and entitlement to redundancy. Once such a determination is available, the Department is then in a position to make the payment to the employee concerned. Should the outstanding documentation be provided by the employer during the period while the case is pending a hearing before the EAT, this would allow the claim to be processed by my Department in the usual way.
45 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the steps he has taken or intends to take to improve the competitiveness of the economy and reduce costs to industry and the employment generating sectors; if he has carried out an evaluation of the factors most debilitating to the economy; when he expects to see positive indicators in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27351/10]
I refer Deputy Durkan to questions 93 and 94 of 15th June last, as well as questions 59, 85 and 86 of 16th June last, which address the issues raised.
46 Deputy Edward O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the funding available to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [27389/10]
My Department does not provide direct funding or grants to businesses but provides funding to a number of State Agencies, including the County and City Enterprise Boards (CEBs) and Enterprise Ireland, through whom assistance is delivered directly to businesses. The CEB's unique role positions them as a first point of contact for persons wishing to set up in business. I would advise the promoter to contact their local CEB, the South Cork County Enterprise Board in the first instance to discuss what options may be available to him and his business. The Board is located at Unit 6a, South Ring Business Park. Phone No: 021 4975281 Fax No: 021 4975287 Email: enterprise@sceb.ie Website: www.sceb.ie
To be eligible for CEB grant support an enterprise must be in the commercial sphere, must demonstrate a market for the proposed product/service, must have a capacity for growth and new job creation and must not employ more than 10 people. CEBs can provide both financial and non-financial assistance to a project promoter. The forms of financial assistance, which are available, subject to certain restrictions and conditions, include Priming Grants, Business Expansion/Development Grants, and Feasibility/Innovation Study Grants.
The CEBs give priority to enterprises in the manufacturing or internationally traded services sector and must always give consideration to any potential for deadweight and displacement arising from a proposed enterprise. In addition, the CEBs deliver a range of non-financial supports to improve management capability development within micro-enterprises designed to help new and existing enterprises to operate effectively and efficiently so as to last and grow.
47 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of his Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if he will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27505/10]
48 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of his Department in each of the past three years, the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27520/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 48 together.
In the time available, it has not been possible for my officials to compile all of the information requested by the Deputy. However, I will forward the details to the Deputy in writing as soon as possible.
49 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the position in the matter of the fitting out and commissioning the Department of Defence’s headquarters in Newbridge, County Kildare; if all matters have been completed in accordance with requirements prior to official opening; when the official opening is likely to take place and the centre become fully operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27498/10]
It is expected that construction of the new Department of Defence headquarters at Newbridge, Co. Kildare will be completed at the end of July or early August. Completion of the commissioning of the many building systems, followed by occupation of the building by the Department, should be effected soon thereafter. No date has been set as yet for the official opening of the building. That will be a matter for the Department of Defence.
50 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if there is any EU scheme whereby groups here can apply for loan finance from any of the EU institutions for community-related development projects. [27264/10]
My Department is responsible for, amongst other things, overall policy in relation to Ireland's EU Structural and Cohesion Funds. In this context, there are a number of financial engineering instruments available to Member States such as JASPERS, JEREMIE, JESSICA and JASMINE. However, these are more suitable to large scale programmes and do not form part of our Structural Funds programmes for 2007 to 2013. The other major EU Funding which Ireland receives relates to Agriculture i.e. European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) which fall outside this Department's remit. I understand that there is no provision for loan financing under these funds.
There are a number of smaller EU funding streams which fall outside the remit of my Department such as in the areas of Environment — LIFE fund for environment and nature, Justice — European Integration Fund and European Refugee Fund, Education — ERASMUS and MARCO POLO and to the SME sector — European Progress Micro Financing Facility amongst others. I am not aware of any loan financing under these smaller funds but the Deputy might wish to raise it with the Ministers concerned to confirm the position.
51 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11. [27300/10]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the taxpayer in question has been issued with a current Tax Clearance Certificate. The issue regarding the Home Carers Credit has been resolved. Further applications by this taxpayer for Tax Clearance Certificates will be processed in the normal manner.
52 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Finance the details of the resources provided to him under receipts by the national lottery for each of the past three years; if he will provide a breakdown of the way funding is distributed; if he will outline the programmes so funded on an ongoing basis under each Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27363/10]
Section 5 of the National Lottery Act 1986 provides that the surplus from the National Lottery may be used for the following purposes: sport and other recreation; national culture, including the Irish Language; the arts, within the meaning of the Arts Act 1951; the health of the community; and for such other purposes as the Government may determine. The following additional categories have been so determined: youth, welfare, national heritage and amenities.
In order to give effect to this statutory provision, the surplus from the National Lottery is transferred to the Exchequer on a regular basis and is applied each year to part-fund the Exchequer allocations to a specified range of expenditure subheads across various Votes. Each year, the amount transferred to the Exchequer from the National Lottery surplus, together with details of the total Exchequer allocations to the relevant subheads are set out in Appendix 1 of the annual "Revised Estimates for Public Services".
The following is a summary of the information contained at Appendix 1 of the "Revised Estimates for Public Services" for the last few years:
|
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
|
€m |
€m |
€m |
|
|
Total Exchequer allocation to the Subheads part-funded by the National Lottery |
444 |
472 |
435 |
|
Of which: transferred to the Exchequer from the surplus of the National Lottery |
230 |
265 |
275 |
53 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Finance when full-time customs service staff will be assigned to the port at Killybegs, County Donegal, to replace the staff member who retired last year; when a customs cutter vessel will be assigned on a permanent basis to patrol the north-west coast to prevent drugs being brought ashore; the number of Revenue or customs full-time staff and part-time staff who are trained in the detection of illegal drugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27366/10]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a review of small offices in 2009 concluded that there was no longer a need for a full-time, permanent staff presence at Killybegs. This decision was made in the light of the level of demand for Revenue services at that location and modern service delivery channels. Consequently, the official who had been based in Killybegs until his retirement was not replaced at that location.
Following discussions with Killybegs based traders, it was agreed that their service requirements would be dealt with from the Revenue office in Donegal Town, which is only 25 kilometres from Killybegs. A much larger pool of staff is available at Donegal Town to ensure continuity and consistency of service and to deliver a broader range of customer services from that location. Where necessary, an officer from Donegal Town attends at Killybegs by appointment, if physical presence is needed for any particular transaction. A recent review of the new arrangements has concluded that the service currently being provided is meeting the needs of customers in the Killybegs area.
Revenue enforcement staff continue to cover Killybegs Port as part of their ongoing patrols, while the Customs Cutters patrol the coastline. The attendance of enforcement personnel is selective and targeted and is based on analysis and evaluation of national and international seizure trends, traffic frequency, routes and other risk indicators. Revenue continuously assesses the risk along the Donegal coast, including any small ports and other landing places, for the illegal importation of drugs and tobacco products. Attendance at Ports can also be as a result of specific intelligence. Customs officers liase with local Gardai, Harbour Masters and Coastguard Officers regarding drugs and with trade interests in respect of fiscal products.
As part of the Customs Drugs Watch programme, a confidential 24/7 free phone is promoted and maintained as a communications channel for the maritime and coastal communities to report suspicious activity. While there is constant monitoring of the Donegal coastline, it is not the policy of the Revenue Commissioners to publish details of such enforcement activities. Neither does Revenue publish the number or location of Customs staff trained in the detection of illegal drugs as this could prejudice current or future operations.
In terms of maritime surveillance, there are currently two Customs Cutters in service, the RCC Suirbhéir and the RCC Faire and these support our teams of land-based enforcement officers involved in anti-smuggling duties. Patrols of the Ports by the Cutters are kept under constant review to take account of available intelligence and emerging smuggling trends. The Cutters spend a significant amount of their time patrolling the north west in execution of plans drawn up by the local risk assessment personnel. Based on current risk profiles, it is not envisaged that a Customs cutter will be assigned on a permanent basis to patrol the north west coast.
In addition to national patrolling and surveillance activities, the Customs Service participates in a number of international Joint Surveillance Operations each year. In 2008 the Commissioners assigned a Customs Officer to the Maritime Operations and Analysis Centre — Narcotics in Lisbon, Portugal. This centre, which is supported by the US authorities, is playing a leading role in the fight against the trafficking of drugs, particularly cocaine, into the EU from South America and also from West Africa, which is increasingly being used as a staging post. Revenue's Customs Service continues to work proactively with an Garda Síochána and the Naval Service as part of the Joint Task Force on Drugs Interdiction. The Commissioners are satisfied that the current arrangements for maritime and coastal surveillance are sufficient and effective and currently have no plans for the acquisition or deployment of additional cutter resources.
54 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a small section of the weir on the River Suir, at Ardfinnan, County Tipperary has collapsed; if it will be repaired as a matter of urgency in view of the potential flooding implications for the village of Ardfinnan and the danger of ongoing erosion arising from the collapse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27384/10]
The Office of Public Works has no responsibility in relation to maintenance of the weir on the River Suir at Ardfinnan, and this would be a matter for the owners of the weir. My engineering staff advise me that the breach in the weir does not increase the risk / worsen the flooding in the area and therefore it does not pose any threat to the village of Ardfinnan. I should also point out that the Office of Public Works has made funds available to the Local Authority, under the Minor Works Scheme, to enable them to carry out flood alleviation works in the Ardfinnan area. Works include: cleaning out the bridge, strengthening the riverbank, raising the existing embankment and removal of in-stream vegetation. It is envisaged that these works will be completed in the current year.
55 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) is entitled to a tax refund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27411/10]
56 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) is entitled to a refund of income levy from 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27412/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 55 and 56 together.
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that it was determined, on the basis of details received, that the person concerned was entitled to a refund of tax following the loss of her employment. The full amount of this refund was paid in two separate payments, which issued on 14 October 2009 and 26 February 2010 respectively. Following the receipt of additional details, a further review was completed in March 2010. A Balancing Statement which set out the up-to-date position was issued by the Revenue Commissioners to the taxpayer's husband, as the assessable spouse, on 1 April 2010.
In addition, I am further advised by the Revenue Commissioners that there is no record of an application for a refund of income levy having been received in respect of the person in question. In the absence of a completed Income Levy Refund Claim Form, it will not be possible to determine that person's entitlement to such a refund. Accordingly, the local Revenue District Office has recently issued a copy of the relevant form to the taxpayer by post in order that this issue can be progressed.
57 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the full extent of tax benefits available in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27497/10]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that tax relief is currently available at the standard rate of tax, 20%, for certain tuition fees. The maximum limit on such qualifying fees for the academic years 2009/2010 and 2010/2011 is €5,000. Postgraduate courses must:
be carried out in an approved college;
be of at least 1 academic year but no more than 4 academic years in duration; and
lead to a postgraduate award based on either a thesis or an examination.
Also, the person taking the course must already have a primary degree or equivalent qualification. More information is available on the Revenue website at www.revenue.ie.
58 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Finance the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of his Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if he will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27507/10]
59 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Finance the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of his Department in each of the past three years, the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27522/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 58 and 59 together.
The tables below set out the total expenses claimed by the two secretaries general, three second secretaries and the assistant secretaries of my Department in each of the past three years (2007 to 2009). The detailed breakdown by expense category (foreign travel, home travel, entertainment and other), requested by the Deputy, is also provided. The total expenses of the Second Secretary positions, which are unique to my Department and were not requested by the Deputy, are also provided.
|
2007 |
Total |
Foreign Travel |
Home Travel |
Entertainment |
Other |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Secretary General |
5,176 |
979 |
339 |
3,799 |
59 |
|
Secretary General PSMD |
6,659 |
379 |
1,104 |
2,975 |
2,201 |
|
Second Secretaries |
32,585 |
26,019 |
2,294 |
1,238 |
3,034 |
|
Assistant Secretaries |
41,727 |
26,283 |
7,442 |
4,687 |
3,315 |
|
2008 |
Total |
Foreign Travel |
Home Travel |
Entertainment |
Other |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Secretary General |
870 |
197 |
Nil |
673 |
Nil |
|
Secretary General PSMD |
3,143 |
500 |
458 |
1,530 |
655 |
|
Second Secretaries |
19,885 |
15,174 |
1,696 |
1,293 |
1,722 |
|
Assistant Secretaries |
28,620 |
16,918 |
2,950 |
1,579 |
7,173 |
|
2009 |
Total |
Foreign Travel |
Home Travel |
Entertainment |
Other |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Secretary General |
183 |
Nil |
Nil |
183 |
Nil |
|
Secretary General PSMD |
3,334 |
1,911 |
139 |
520 |
764 |
|
Second Secretaries |
17,158 |
14,363 |
796 |
259 |
1,740 |
|
Assistant Secretaries |
21,537 |
15,461 |
1,775 |
731 |
3,570 |
*Other expenses include training, professional subscriptions, publications, etc.
60 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children when an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) will be decided on. [27266/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
61 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that home care providers that are contracted and paid by the Health Service Executive are charging elderly patients an extra hourly fee on top of the money they receive from the HSE; the amount a home care provider (details supplied) received in 2009 from the HSE to provide care; the number of patients this home care provider was contracted to care for in 2009; the number of hours of care this provider was contracted to provide in 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27269/10]
I regret that due to industrial action by members of the Civil and Public Services Union (CPSU) I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.
62 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps she will take to have a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath admitted to have a surgical procedure carried out under the National Treatment Purchase Fund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27278/10]
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. As the Deputy may be aware, 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. As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
63 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will explain the decision of the Health Service Executive to cease respite support for an organisation (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27281/10]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
64 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding sick leave payments in respect of Health Service Executive employees who drive ambulances; the criteria as to the number of days they can receive sick benefit for; if there is a limit to same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27284/10]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply.
65 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will direct the Irish Medicines Board to investigate the product WHACK (details supplied), and those who supply it; if she will provide an update on the IMB investigation of the product Amplified; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27285/10]
In light of the health risks associated with the consumption of a number of substances commonly referred to as 'legal highs' and which were on sale in head shops, the Government made an Order on 11 May declaring a large number of these substances to be controlled drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977, with immediate effect. Approximately 200 individual substances were controlled by this legislation and it is now a criminal offence for a person to import, export, produce, supply or possess these legal high substances. This legislation has had a significant impact on headshops, removing the vast majority of their products from the market, and as a consequence a large number of headshops have closed.
The Government has always acknowledged that attempts would be made to circumvent these regulations. Since these substances were brought under control, other substances have been coming onto the market that are currently not subject to controls under the Misuse of Drugs Act. My Department is working closely with the Department of Justice and Law Reform, the Gardaí, the Customs Service, the Forensic Science Laboratory, the Irish Medicines Board, and others to monitor closely the emergence of new psychoactive substances. I will not hesitate to seek Government approval to ban additional substances if any of them pose a risk to public health.
Initial analyses indicate that the products 'WHACK' and 'Amplified' contain new cocaine-type substances. As these substances have anaesthetic effects they may be considered to fall within the scope of the medicinal products legislation. These products do not hold licences from the IMB or the European Medicines Agency. The IMB has been inspecting head shops and taking action to have these, and products similarly considered to fall within the scope of the medicinal products legislation, removed from the market. My colleague the Minister for Justice and Law Reform last Friday published the Criminal Justice (Psychoactive Substances) Bill 2010. This bill will make it a criminal offence to sell or supply substances which may not be specifically controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Acts but which have psychoactive effects.
66 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [27293/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
67 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when an appeal for a medical card will be finalised in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [27294/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
68 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if patients who are transferring to the fair deal scheme but who have previously paid for a number of years in a private nursing home can have the 5% annual house value contribution waived; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27297/10]
Under the Nursing Homes Support Scheme, a person's principal residence is only included in the financial assessment for the first three years of their time in long-term nursing home care. This is known as the 15% or 'three year' cap. It means that individuals pay a 5% contribution based on their principal residence for a maximum of three years, regardless of the time they spend in nursing home care. This 'three year' cap applies regardless of whether individuals opt for the Nursing Home Loan or not. Time spent in long-term nursing home care prior to applying for the Nursing Homes Support Scheme is also taken into account in calculating the date from which the three year cap will apply.
69 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a submission (details supplied). [27298/10]
I am happy to consider this submission in the context of the implementation framework necessary to support the revised version of the Children First Guidelines.
70 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children when orthopaedic shoes will be granted to a person (details supplied). [27309/10]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
71 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of persons, by county, treated for foot ulcerations between 2005 and 2009 who did not require a full or partial limb amputation; the number of those patients who had diabetes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27315/10]
72 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of patients under the age of 65 years, by county, treated for foot ulcerations between 2005 to 2009 who did not require a full or partial limb amputation; the number of those patients who had diabetes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27316/10]
82 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of full and partial lower limb amputations that were carried out between 2005 to 2009, by county, in each year; the number of these persons who had diabetes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27329/10]
83 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of full and partial lower limb amputations that were carried out between 2005 and 2009, by county, on persons under 65 years of age; the number of these persons who had diabetes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27330/10]
128 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of persons treated for foot ulcerations who did not require a full or partial lower limb amputation for each of the years 2007 and 2008 in each of the counties of Cavan, Monaghan, Louth and Meath and in the Health Service Executive north-east area; and the number of these persons who had diabetes. [27436/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 71, 72, 82, 83 and 128 together.
The information requested by the Deputies is supplied in the tables below.
|
1. Number of admissions with a diagnosis of foot ulcerations and without a full or partial lower limb amputation, by county |
1b. Number of these with diabetes |
2. Number of admissions aged under 65 with a diagnosis of foot ulcerations and without a full or partial lower limb amputation by county |
2b. Ulcers without amputation, by county, under 65 years, with diabetes |
3. Total Number of Lower Limb Amputations |
3b. Total Number of Lower Limb Amputations , with diabetes |
4. Total Number of Lower Limb Amputations , under 65 Years |
4b. Total Number of Lower Limb Amputations , with diabetes under 65 Years |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009* |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009* |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009* |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009* |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009* |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009* |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009* |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009* |
|
|
County of Residence |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Carlow |
50 |
48 |
71 |
64 |
44 |
25 |
20 |
37 |
33 |
24 |
11 |
14 |
30 |
14 |
13 |
8 |
7 |
14 |
8 |
5 |
6 |
6 |
10 |
10 |
6 |
~~ |
~~ |
6 |
5 |
5 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
5 |
~~ |
~~ |
. |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
|
Cavan |
80 |
103 |
74 |
78 |
85 |
18 |
31 |
10 |
25 |
25 |
14 |
24 |
6 |
12 |
9 |
5 |
9 |
~~ |
7 |
~~ |
14 |
7 |
8 |
8 |
11 |
5 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
6 |
5 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
6 |
. |
~~ |
~~ |
. |
~~ |
|
Clare |
109 |
109 |
106 |
113 |
98 |
27 |
33 |
38 |
41 |
46 |
19 |
16 |
22 |
19 |
23 |
9 |
7 |
9 |
10 |
18 |
23 |
17 |
31 |
24 |
20 |
6 |
9 |
14 |
15 |
11 |
8 |
~~ |
15 |
6 |
10 |
~~ |
~~ |
7 |
~~ |
7 |
|
Cork |
336 |
341 |
390 |
339 |
285 |
95 |
103 |
136 |
133 |
108 |
88 |
73 |
89 |
97 |
76 |
31 |
27 |
32 |
38 |
34 |
101 |
74 |
90 |
99 |
56 |
51 |
23 |
45 |
53 |
30 |
34 |
22 |
29 |
29 |
21 |
12 |
7 |
11 |
16 |
11 |
|
Donegal |
54 |
92 |
97 |
77 |
83 |
27 |
48 |
61 |
27 |
57 |
15 |
20 |
26 |
17 |
21 |
7 |
13 |
14 |
~~ |
14 |
18 |
25 |
13 |
21 |
18 |
7 |
7 |
5 |
7 |
10 |
6 |
8 |
6 |
8 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
|
Dublin |
635 |
800 |
997 |
1173 |
881 |
165 |
205 |
265 |
270 |
240 |
169 |
251 |
395 |
356 |
259 |
49 |
75 |
118 |
108 |
81 |
143 |
128 |
146 |
154 |
144 |
57 |
59 |
57 |
73 |
89 |
53 |
48 |
68 |
66 |
67 |
20 |
24 |
30 |
30 |
41 |
|
Galway |
212 |
157 |
132 |
154 |
142 |
94 |
55 |
42 |
52 |
64 |
41 |
36 |
28 |
35 |
37 |
22 |
12 |
8 |
13 |
16 |
43 |
42 |
42 |
29 |
32 |
13 |
21 |
17 |
12 |
10 |
14 |
13 |
9 |
11 |
16 |
7 |
6 |
~~ |
~~ |
5 |
|
Kerry |
99 |
109 |
135 |
108 |
70 |
37 |
41 |
48 |
53 |
23 |
29 |
28 |
29 |
36 |
15 |
10 |
14 |
12 |
22 |
~~ |
22 |
25 |
45 |
23 |
22 |
11 |
13 |
19 |
5 |
8 |
9 |
10 |
12 |
7 |
12 |
~~ |
6 |
~~ |
~~ |
6 |
|
Kildare |
56 |
105 |
119 |
126 |
117 |
13 |
35 |
45 |
54 |
51 |
15 |
31 |
36 |
35 |
34 |
~~ |
13 |
21 |
17 |
18 |
22 |
22 |
23 |
26 |
29 |
10 |
11 |
17 |
21 |
15 |
11 |
11 |
13 |
13 |
9 |
~~ |
~~ |
9 |
10 |
~~ |
|
Kilkenny |
99 |
113 |
130 |
75 |
95 |
54 |
63 |
69 |
39 |
53 |
17 |
22 |
30 |
23 |
19 |
11 |
11 |
6 |
16 |
9 |
16 |
6 |
27 |
12 |
16 |
10 |
~~ |
15 |
8 |
9 |
5 |
~~ |
6 |
8 |
6 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
6 |
5 |
|
Laois |
48 |
36 |
70 |
46 |
28 |
10 |
20 |
38 |
20 |
18 |
15 |
9 |
22 |
19 |
9 |
6 |
5 |
15 |
7 |
8 |
11 |
12 |
12 |
10 |
10 |
5 |
6 |
7 |
7 |
8 |
7 |
5 |
5 |
6 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
5 |
~~ |
~~ |
|
Leitrim |
39 |
31 |
22 |
36 |
25 |
12 |
9 |
8 |
14 |
7 |
12 |
6 |
5 |
7 |
8 |
6 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
5 |
8 |
5 |
~~ |
9 |
6 |
5 |
~~ |
~~ |
5 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
. |
. |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
. |
. |
~~ |
|
Limerick |
126 |
165 |
167 |
151 |
75 |
39 |
53 |
51 |
73 |
32 |
37 |
48 |
37 |
32 |
26 |
11 |
26 |
16 |
19 |
15 |
30 |
32 |
36 |
42 |
29 |
13 |
16 |
19 |
24 |
18 |
11 |
14 |
15 |
13 |
9 |
~~ |
6 |
7 |
8 |
~~ |
|
Longford |
39 |
42 |
32 |
36 |
9 |
14 |
11 |
16 |
19 |
~~ |
8 |
12 |
12 |
15 |
6 |
~~ |
8 |
7 |
12 |
~~ |
13 |
12 |
11 |
5 |
~~ |
6 |
6 |
5 |
~~ |
. |
~~ |
~~ |
7 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
. |
~~ |
~~ |
. |
|
Louth |
76 |
96 |
148 |
94 |
86 |
33 |
30 |
35 |
37 |
27 |
18 |
22 |
70 |
27 |
26 |
7 |
8 |
13 |
11 |
8 |
17 |
21 |
24 |
19 |
14 |
9 |
7 |
12 |
10 |
7 |
6 |
7 |
13 |
10 |
9 |
~~ |
~~ |
8 |
6 |
5 |
|
Mayo |
84 |
113 |
119 |
99 |
68 |
21 |
46 |
47 |
37 |
24 |
15 |
25 |
23 |
9 |
25 |
6 |
13 |
6 |
~~ |
11 |
24 |
35 |
21 |
24 |
16 |
13 |
15 |
10 |
9 |
10 |
5 |
8 |
8 |
9 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
|
Meath |
80 |
109 |
105 |
110 |
106 |
24 |
43 |
37 |
39 |
29 |
13 |
24 |
33 |
31 |
29 |
~~ |
6 |
19 |
11 |
9 |
16 |
9 |
23 |
24 |
16 |
9 |
~~ |
12 |
15 |
7 |
~~ |
~~ |
13 |
14 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
7 |
10 |
~~ |
|
Monaghan |
37 |
70 |
52 |
66 |
65 |
15 |
17 |
12 |
26 |
19 |
7 |
16 |
10 |
13 |
11 |
6 |
7 |
7 |
6 |
~~ |
7 |
13 |
10 |
5 |
14 |
~~ |
6 |
~~ |
. |
7 |
~~ |
~~ |
5 |
5 |
7 |
. |
. |
~~ |
. |
~~ |
|
Non-Resident/No Fixed Abode |
5 |
6 |
11 |
8 |
9 |
~~ |
~~ |
5 |
. |
6 |
~~ |
~~ |
7 |
5 |
~~ |
. |
~~ |
~~ |
. |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
. |
. |
~~ |
. |
~~ |
. |
. |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
. |
. |
~~ |
. |
~~ |
. |
. |
|
Offaly |
39 |
47 |
34 |
33 |
24 |
11 |
20 |
13 |
17 |
14 |
11 |
16 |
5 |
11 |
6 |
7 |
11 |
~~ |
10 |
5 |
9 |
11 |
13 |
12 |
6 |
~~ |
~~ |
7 |
6 |
6 |
5 |
6 |
~~ |
5 |
~~ |
~~ |
. |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
|
Roscommon |
75 |
87 |
94 |
99 |
65 |
19 |
32 |
30 |
18 |
22 |
~~ |
16 |
16 |
22 |
9 |
~~ |
8 |
11 |
11 |
~~ |
14 |
7 |
11 |
10 |
8 |
~~ |
~~ |
7 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
|
Sligo |
60 |
58 |
62 |
68 |
37 |
21 |
26 |
25 |
23 |
10 |
9 |
6 |
14 |
16 |
8 |
8 |
~~ |
~~ |
11 |
~~ |
17 |
7 |
8 |
11 |
~~ |
11 |
5 |
~~ |
7 |
. |
~~ |
~~ |
. |
6 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
. |
~~ |
. |
|
Tipperary |
186 |
219 |
215 |
238 |
186 |
58 |
80 |
90 |
86 |
73 |
27 |
39 |
47 |
46 |
39 |
14 |
19 |
20 |
27 |
20 |
41 |
31 |
35 |
32 |
19 |
18 |
20 |
20 |
13 |
8 |
10 |
12 |
11 |
11 |
~~ |
~~ |
7 |
8 |
6 |
~~ |
|
Waterford |
136 |
127 |
109 |
120 |
105 |
51 |
67 |
54 |
55 |
50 |
30 |
23 |
28 |
22 |
28 |
13 |
13 |
15 |
13 |
12 |
18 |
22 |
15 |
13 |
14 |
12 |
10 |
8 |
6 |
9 |
~~ |
6 |
6 |
6 |
5 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
5 |
~~ |
|
Westmeath |
60 |
64 |
55 |
42 |
29 |
20 |
21 |
25 |
19 |
11 |
13 |
19 |
17 |
5 |
7 |
~~ |
~~ |
5 |
~~ |
~~ |
15 |
11 |
9 |
16 |
10 |
8 |
7 |
5 |
11 |
6 |
~~ |
5 |
~~ |
~~ |
6 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
|
Wexford |
160 |
198 |
167 |
144 |
129 |
70 |
78 |
73 |
58 |
47 |
35 |
46 |
25 |
35 |
24 |
16 |
26 |
13 |
21 |
10 |
24 |
18 |
24 |
24 |
25 |
17 |
9 |
13 |
14 |
16 |
9 |
8 |
11 |
12 |
10 |
~~ |
~~ |
6 |
7 |
9 |
|
Wicklow |
77 |
76 |
113 |
80 |
80 |
28 |
39 |
51 |
30 |
15 |
21 |
17 |
38 |
28 |
21 |
8 |
11 |
18 |
12 |
7 |
13 |
19 |
10 |
5 |
11 |
10 |
16 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
7 |
7 |
~~ |
6 |
~~ |
6 |
~~ |
~~ |
~~ |
|
National |
3,057 |
3,521 |
3,826 |
3,777 |
3,026 |
1,002 |
1,228 |
1,361 |
1,298 |
1,097 |
694 |
862 |
1,100 |
987 |
792 |
270 |
359 |
412 |
421 |
329 |
688 |
621 |
703 |
667 |
558 |
318 |
283 |
334 |
338 |
305 |
232 |
219 |
277 |
265 |
232 |
96 |
93 |
133 |
138 |
132 |
Source: Hospital Inpatient Enquiry.
Note: Data refer to discharges from publicly funded acute hospitals. Private hospitals are not included.
Note: For reasons of patient confidentiality it is standard policy not to report cells of less than 5 cases. These cells have been marked with ‘ ~~ '
This table has been produced by the Information Unit and is based on Hospital Inpatient Enquiry (HIPE) data received to end of May 2010.
*HIPE data for 2009 is not complete. The 2009 HIPE file remains open, and so discharges can still be added/re-coded to the database. So any analysis done should take it's incompleteness into account.
|
1. Number of admissions with a diagnosis of foot ulcerations and without a full or partial lower limb amputation, by county |
1b. Number of these with diabetes |
|||
|
2007 |
2008 |
2007 |
2008 |
|
|
County of Residence |
||||
|
Cavan |
74 |
78 |
10 |
25 |
|
Louth |
148 |
94 |
35 |
37 |
|
Meath |
105 |
110 |
37 |
39 |
|
Monaghan |
52 |
66 |
12 |
26 |
|
HSE North East |
379 |
348 |
94 |
127 |
Source: Hospital Inpatient Enquiry.
Note: Data refer to discharges from publicly funded acute hospitals. Private hospitals are not included.
This table has been produced by the Information Unit and is based on Hospital Inpatient Enquiry (HIPE) data received to end of May 2010.
73 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the financial cost incurred by the Health Service Executive, by county, in outpatient, emergency department and day case treatment of foot ulcerations which did not require a full or partial limb amputation between 2005 and 2009; the number of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27317/10]
74 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the financial cost incurred by the Health Service Executive, by county, in outpatient, emergency department and day case treatments of foot ulcerations in persons with diabetes which did not require a full or partial limb amputation between 2005 and 2009; the number of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27318/10]
75 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the financial cost incurred by the Health Service Executive, by county, in outpatient, emergency department and day case treatment of foot ulcerations in persons under the age of 65 years which did not require a full or partial limb amputation between 2005 and 2009; the number of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27319/10]
76 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the financial cost, by county, of outpatient, emergency department and day case treatments incurred by the Health Service Executive, in the treatment of foot ulcerations in patients who had diabetes and are under the age of 65 years, which did not require a full or partial limb amputation, between 2005 to 2009; the numbers of such persons. [27321/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 73 to 76, inclusive, together.
As these are service matters, they have been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
77 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost in terms of staffing hours for outpatient, emergency department and day case treatment by the Health Service Executive of foot ulcerations which did not require a full or partial limb amputation between 2005 and 2009; the number of such persons on a county basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27322/10]
78 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost incurred by the Health Service Executive between 2005 and 2009, on a county basis, in terms of staffing hours for outpatient, emergency department and day case treatment of foot ulcerations in patients who had diabetes and who did not require a full or partial limb amputation; the number of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27323/10]
79 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost incurred by the Health Service Executive in terms of staffing hours for outpatient, emergency department and day case treatment of foot ulcerations in persons under the age of 65 years who did not require a full or partial limb amputation, between 2005 and 2009, on a county basis; the number of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27324/10]
81 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost incurred by the Health Service Executive, by county, in terms of staffing hours for outpatient, emergency department and day case treatment of foot ulcerations in persons under 65 who had diabetes and who did require a full or partial limb amputation between 2005 and 2009; the number of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27328/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 77 to 79, inclusive, and 81 together.
As these are service matters, they have been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
84 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the financial cost, by county, of inpatient treatment incurred by the Health Service Executive, in both carrying out and after care, of full and partial lower limb amputations between 2005 to 2009 on persons in each year; the numbers of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27331/10]
85 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the financial cost, by county, of inpatient treatment incurred by the Health Service Executive, in both carrying out and after care, of full and partial lower limb amputations between 2005 and 2009 on persons in each year for persons who had diabetes; the numbers of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27332/10]
86 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the financial cost, by county, of inpatient treatment incurred by the Health Service Executive, in both carrying out and after care, of full and partial lower limb amputations between 2005 and 2009 on persons under 65 years of age in each year; the numbers of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27333/10]
87 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the financial cost, by county, of inpatient treatment incurred by the Health Service Executive in carrying out and after care, of full and partial lower limb amputations between 2005 and 2009 on persons who had diabetes and were under 65 years of age in each year; the number of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27334/10]
88 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost, by county, in terms of staffing hours for inpatient treatment incurred by the Health Service Executive, in carrying out and after care, of full and partial lower limb amputations between 2005 and 2009 on persons in each year; the number of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27335/10]
89 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost in terms of staffing hours for inpatient treatment incurred by the Health Service Executive in carrying out and after care of full and partial lower limb amputations between 2005 and 2009 in each year on persons with diabetes on a county basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27336/10]
90 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost in terms of staffing hours for inpatient treatment incurred by the Health Service Executive in carrying out and after care of full and partial lower limb amputations between 2005 and 2009 in each year on persons under 65 years of age on a county basis; the number of persons who had diabetes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27337/10]
91 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost in terms of staffing hours for inpatient treatment incurred by the Health Service Executive in carrying out and after care of full and partial lower limb amputations between 2005 and 2009 in each year on persons under 65 years of age with diabetes on a county basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27338/10]
130 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of full or partial lower limb amputations carried out on persons with diabetes for each of the years 2007 and 2008 in each of the counties of Cavan, Monaghan, Louth and Meath and in the Health Service Executive north-east area; and the total inpatient cost of caring for them. [27438/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 84 to 91, inclusive, and 130 together.
As these are service matters, they have been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
92 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost in terms of bed days used in inpatient treatment by the Health Service Executive of full and partial lower limb amputations between 2005 and 2009 on persons in each year on a county basis; the numbers of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27339/10]
93 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost in terms of bed days used in inpatient treatment by the Health Service Executive of full and partial lower limb amputations between 2005 and 2009 on persons who had diabetes in each year on a county basis; the numbers of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27340/10]
94 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost in terms of bed days used in inpatient treatment by the Health Service Executive of full and partial lower limb amputations between 2005 and 2009 on persons under 65 years of age in each year on a county basis; the numbers of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27341/10]
95 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost in terms of bed days used in inpatient treatment by the Health Service Executive for full and partial lower limb amputations between 2005 and 2009 on persons under 65 years of age who also had diabetes in each year on a county basis; the numbers of such persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27342/10]
I propose to answer Questions Nos. 92 to 95, inclusive, together.
As these are service matters, they have been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
96 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made towards achieving the recommendation of one full-time podiatrist in each hospital diabetes centre as proposed by the diabetes advisory group; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27344/10]
99 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the allocation, to public patients, of WTE podiatrist positions devoted specifically to diabetes-related foot problems on a county basis; the number of hours of podiatry services to which these positions equate on a county basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27347/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 96 and 99, together.
As these are service matters, they have been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
97 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of primary care team networks the Health Service Executive intends to establish in each county; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27345/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
98 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the allocation to public patients of WTE podiatrist positions on a county basis; the number of hours of podiatry services to which these positions equate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27346/10]
Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of its Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. With regard to the provision of podiatry services, as this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
100 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the allocation, to public patients, of WTE podiatrist positions devoted specifically to diabetes-related foot problems on a county basis; the number of hours of podiatry services that these positions equate to on a county basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27348/10]
Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of its Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. With regard to the provision of podiatry services, as this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
101 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the allocation, to public patients, of WTE podiatrist positions for each county; the number of podiatry services that these positions equate to for each county; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27349/10]
Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of its Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. With regard to the provision of podiatry services, as this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
102 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding funding provided to a nursery (details supplied) in Dublin 11; and if the matter can be examined urgently, the dispute sorted, group communicated with and future operation and viability of nursery clarified. [27356/10]
I have responsibility for implementing the free Pre-School Year in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) scheme, which was introduced in January of this year. I understand that the child care facility referred to by the Deputy is participating in the new ECCE scheme and that to date capitation funding in the region of €95,000 has been allocated by my Office to the facility to enable it to provide the free pre-school year. As the query relates to the withdrawal of funding previously received by the service from the Health Service Executive (HSE), I have referred the matter to it for investigation and for direct reply to the Deputy.
103 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. [27360/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
104 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children the work carried out under the H1N1 vaccination programme; the number of complaints that were received regarding children and adults receiving overdoses; the information available here or internationally in respect of side-effects for children who received a double dosage of Pandemrix; the protocols for communication with parents and handling cases of such overdoses; the basis of assurances given by staff; if it is based on international experience or other; if the parents of a child (details supplied) in Dublin 11 will be invited to discuss this matter with officials of her Department and Health Service Executive officials. [27364/10]
The public pandemic vaccination campaign came to an end on 31st March 2010. Following a full assessment of the current situation, the risks of a second wave, the availability of vaccine and other factors, the National Public Health Emergency Team decided, following advice from the National Immunisation Advisory Committee, that those in the "at risk" group should continue to be vaccinated. This means that up to September 2010, the vaccine will continue to be available free of charge through GPs and Maternity Units to these particular groups. The vaccine will also be available to those travelling to the southern hemisphere during the upcoming influenza season.
The H1N1 vaccines used in Ireland were Pandemrix and Celvapan and it is estimated that 1.1 million doses have been administered in Ireland to date. The Irish Medicines Board is aware of six children who inadvertently received adult doses of Pandemrix in error. Of these, 3 cases reported no adverse reaction, the others who showed symptoms have all recovered without consequence. IMB is working very closely with its European and international partners in monitoring vaccine safety. At least 42.3 million people have been vaccinated in the European Economic Area and the balance of risks and benefits for the centrally authorised H1N1 vaccine remains positive.
The HSE regional project managers were responsible for coordinating the response to clinical and operational/administrative incidents. The case raised by the Deputy was handled in my Department in line with the Patient Safety Protocol that I set up in September 2008. The Protocol is managed by the Chief Medical Officer on my behalf as a medical assessment of any potential patient safety issues is required. In accordance with the Protocol, the Health Service Executive has investigated the case and made a report to my office, a copy of which has issued to the parents of the child in question. The HSE has expressed regret at the incident and has invited the parents to contact a named official if they have any further concerns.
105 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost of professional fees paid under the general medical services scheme; the measures that have been taken to reduce the cost of these fees since 2008; the savings achieved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27370/10]
106 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost to the Exchequer of drugs paid for under different schemes; the measures that have been taken to reduce these costs since 2008; the savings achieved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27371/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 105 and 106 together.
In 2008, payments to General Practitioners (GPs) for services provided under the GMS scheme totalled approximately €460 million. In addition, GPs were paid approximately €15m in respect of other schemes. Figures in respect of 2009 are not yet available. In the same year, payments to pharmacies amounted to approximately €1,628 million. This included €1,145 million under the GMS scheme, €315 million under the Drugs Payment Scheme and €138 million under the Long Term Illness Scheme. These figures include the ex-factory costs of the medicines supplied, which amounted to approximately €1,205m, plus any applicable wholesale and retail mark-ups and dispensing fees.
In 2009 I made a number of regulations under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2009 to reduce the fees and allowances payable to health professionals, including GPs and pharmacists. In the case of pharmacists, this included reductions in the wholesale and retail mark-ups paid on medicines supplied under the GMS and community drugs schemes. It is understood from the Health Service Executive (HSE) that savings in the region of €16 million and €60 million were achieved from the reductions in payments to GPs and pharmacy contractors respectively during 2009.
As required by the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2009, I have commenced a review of the operation, effectiveness and impact of the revised fees and allowances. In February this year price reductions of 40% were agreed for a large number of medicines supplied by Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association member companies. In addition, the rebate paid to the HSE in respect of drugs supplied under the GMS scheme has been extended to include all community drugs schemes and increased from 3.53% to 4%. The combination of these measures plus consequent savings in wholesale and retail mark-ups are expected to result in savings of approximately €94m in a full year.
I am confident that the combination of measures being applied this year in the community pharmacy sector will save over €200 million on what otherwise would have been the cost to the Exchequer.
107 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide a detailed breakdown of the services being provided to medical card holders under the amended dental treatment services scheme and the frequency of their availability; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27383/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
108 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 210 of 27 April 2010, if she is now in a position to furnish a reply. [27391/10]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
109 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 211 of 27 April 2010, if she is now in a position to furnish a reply. [27392/10]
As the Deputy's question relates to a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
110 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 226 of 27 April 2010, if she is now in a position to furnish a reply. [27393/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
111 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 311 of 23 March 2010, if she is now in a position to furnish a reply. [27394/10]
The HSE has been auditing the situation regarding radiology reports in other hospitals arising from the recent events in Tallaght Hospital and have informed my Department that the work on the audit is continuing and it is expected that this work will be completed and the audit published in the coming weeks. The Faculty of Radiology, in conjunction with the HSE, has developed a national guideline which sets out the circumstances in which it is appropriate for X-rays to be read by a radiologist or by another clinician. This guideline has been communicated to all hospitals and is being implemented. This will require that hospitals develop standardised operating practices and systems for audit. The HSE will also audit the operation of these standardised operating practices in hospitals quarterly in future.
112 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 230 of 20 April 2010, if she is now in a position to furnish a reply. [27395/10]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
113 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children if dental treatment required to deal with an acute condition in a person (details supplied) in County Cork can be covered under the reduced dental benefits scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27398/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
114 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be facilitated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27405/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
115 Deputy Seán Power asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of beds in St. Vincent’s Hospital, Athy, County Kildare; and the future plans for the hospital. [27416/10]
I regret that due to industrial action by members of the Civil and Public Services Union (CPSU) I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.
116 Deputy Seán Power asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of beds available for the care of the elderly and the number of beds available for terminally ill patients at the Drogheda Memorial Hospital, The Curragh, County Kildare; her future plans for this hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27417/10]
I regret that due to industrial action by members of the Civil and Public Services Union (CPSU) I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.
117 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps she will take to have a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath admitted to the Eye and Ear Hospital, Dublin, for a procedure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27419/10]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
118 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps she will take to have a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath admitted to the Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore, County Offaly for a procedure. [27420/10]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
119 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children in care who currently do not have a written care plan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27427/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply. However, the HSE service plan for 2010 cites a projected 2009 outturn of 85% for the percentage of children in care who had a written care plan as defined by child care regulations 1995.
The Implementation Plan for the recommendations of the Report of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse was accepted by Government and published in July 2009. One of the key recommendations of the Implementation Plan is that an additional 270 additional social workers be recruited by the HSE between 2009 and 2011 in order that the HSE can fulfil its care planning and other statutory obligations to children in care. This is made possible as the approved Employment Control Framework for the HSE exempts social worker posts from the current moratorium on recruitment and the filling of vacancies. An amount of some €14m has been provided to the HSE in the current year to progress the implementation of the recommendations of the Ryan Commission.
120 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps she has taken to ensure greater regional equity in the deployment of social workers. [27428/10]
Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of its Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. With regard to the deployment of social workers, as this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
121 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children in foster care with relatives throughout the State; the number of these relatives who have received clearance through Garda vetting prior to placing children in their care; the number who received clearance through Garda vetting after children had been placed in their care; and the number who have not been subject to Garda vetting. [27429/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
122 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of persons currently employed in residential facilities for children in care who have not yet received Garda clearance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27430/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
123 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the level of co-operation between the health systems North and South regarding kidney transplants; if there is scope for further co-operation; the discussions, if any, she has had with her counterpart in the Executive on this matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27431/10]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
124 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure the provision of the resources needed for additional beds and staffing at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, for the kidney transplant unit in order to maximise the number of transplants which can be performed and to ensure that all kidneys that become available here are used here. [27432/10]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
125 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the medical card entitlements of asylum seekers in direct provision and if they are subject to any restrictions in relation to which general practitioners they are allowed to visit. [27433/10]
The healthcare of asylum seekers is provided by the Health Service Executive (HSE) in the context of general arrangements governing eligibility for public health services. The arrangements in place are not subject to residency and means criteria and such persons may avail of public health services on the same basis as medical card holders, while awaiting a decision on an application to remain in this country. Asylum seekers are given medical cards for the period during which their application for refugee status is being considered. In such circumstances, a choice of doctor may be offered or a general practitioner may be assigned to the direct provision centre by the HSE, depending on the availability of General Medical Services (GMS) contract holders in the area. If refugee status is subsequently granted, then the person is regarded as ordinarily resident and comes under the usual rules for entitlement to health services.
126 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made, if any, on the promised provision of primary care centres; the number of such centres that have been provided, as distinct from primary care teams made up of health care professionals located in different places; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27434/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
127 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the total moneys that remain unpaid under the general medical scheme to general practitioners in each of the years since the establishment of the Health Service Executive; the number of general practitioners involved in each year’s unpaid total; the steps being taken to ensure that all moneys properly due are awarded; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27435/10]
As stated in my previous response, the information sought by the Deputy is not provided by the Health Service Executive to my Department as a matter of routine. Therefore, my Department has again requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address this matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
129 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of bed days used by persons with diabetes treated for foot ulcerations who did not require a full or partial lower limb amputation for each of the years 2007 and 2008 in each of the counties of Cavan, Monaghan, Louth and Meath and in the Health Service Executive north-east area; the total inpatient cost of caring for them in each year; the average bed day cost for this group in each year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27437/10]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct supply.
131 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the circumstances, with regard to HSE Circular 008/10 in respect of cuts to dental treatment services scheme, in which a person in need of denture repairs will be deemed to have a clinical emergency entitling them to reimbursement under this scheme. [27439/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
132 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if surgical correction of exstrophy-epispadias complex is available in this State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27440/10]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
133 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost of building the new Health Service Executive community nursing hospital in Ballincollig, County Cork, including the purchase of the site; when it will be fully equipped and the anticipated cost of the equipment. [27441/10]
I regret that due to industrial action by members of the Civil and Public Services Union (CPSU) I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.
134 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if the new Health Service Executive community nursing hospital in Ballincollig, County Cork, which was built with public funds, will be put out to tender to be run by a private operator as a profit-making business; and if so, when she anticipates that this will happen. [27442/10]
I regret that due to industrial action by members of the Civil and Public Services Union (CPSU) I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.
135 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the policy and procedures in place to ensure that Health Service Executive facilities for older people are upgraded, when required by the Health Information and Quality Authority, in such a manner as to cause minimum disruption to residents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27443/10]
I regret that due to industrial action by members of the Civil and Public Services Union (CPSU) I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.
136 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if the decision to remove drinking water dispensers from Limerick Regional Hospital reflects Health Service Executive policy or cost cutting measures as a result of HSE constraints; if this practice has been carried out in other hospitals; her views on such practices; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27444/10]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
137 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of the Health Service Executive revision of rehabilitation services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27445/10]
138 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the review of rehabilitation services as it affects the provision of prosthetics and orthotics; if her attention has been drawn to the concerns that proposed changes could adversely affect the provision of these services here including the loss of skilled prosthetists or orthotists jobs, loss of choice for patients and a monopoly for a British based prosthetic or orthotic firm; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27446/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 137 and 138 together.
As the Deputy may be aware, the Department of Health and Children and the Health Service Executive (HSE) established a Working Group to develop a national policy and strategy for the provision of neuro-rehabilitation services. Its terms of reference include the development of an appropriate policy framework for neuro-rehabilitation and a preferred model of care for the provision of neuro-rehabilitation services.
The policy development has been informed at all stages by the new delivery structures being developed by the HSE. In its considerations, the Working Group identified the importance of timely access to prosthetic and orthotic services. The final report of the Working Group will recommend that this matter needs to be addressed by the Health Service Executive.
As the issues raised by the Deputy regarding the HSE revision of rehabilitation services and management of prosthetic and orthotic services are matters for the consideration of the Health Service Executive, I have arranged for the questions to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
139 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare can avail of local private physiotherapy in lieu of attendance at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27448/10]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
140 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if and when ambulance transport will be provided in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27449/10]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
141 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a full medical card will be provided in respect of persons (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27450/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
142 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of postgraduate degree public health nursing courses likely to be sponsored by the Health Service Executive in 2010; the degree to which this will be sufficient to meet requirements in view of the extent of natural wastage and increased demand; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27451/10]
As the Health Service Executive has responsibility for the sponsorship arrangements for Student Public Health Nurses this matter has been referred to the Executive for direct reply.
143 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to replicate in County Kildare the Jobstown assisting drug depending project currently operating for the Tallaght region of Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27455/10]
As the Deputy's question relates to a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
144 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Health and Children the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of her Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if she will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27509/10]
The information requested is being collated by my Department and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
145 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Health and Children the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of her Department in each of the past three years, the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27524/10]
The information requested is being collated by my Department and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
146 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has received correspondence from a person (details supplied); if she will raise, with the Health Service Executive, the fact that the post of developmental paediatrician at the Coombe Hospital, Dublin, has been vacant for some time; if she will ask the HSE to redouble its effort to recruit the developmental paediatrician; and if there are any barriers preventing the filling of this vacancy. [27535/10]
The correspondence has been received by my Department and since it relates to an operational issue it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
147 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if an appointment for assessment will be arranged as a matter of urgency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [27545/10]
148 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if an appointment will be arranged for further health care in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will expedite the matter. [27546/10]
151 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if a medical procedure will be arranged in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [27553/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 147, 148 and 151 together.
As these are service matters, they have been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
149 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the length of the waiting lists for audiology services in County Kilkenny; the time frame involved in reducing same; if an early appointment will be arranged in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [27548/10]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
150 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to improve speech therapy services in County Carlow and to increase the number of sessions for each client; if improved services and increased visits will be arranged in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27549/10]
I regret that due to industrial action by members of the Civil and Public Services Union (CPSU) I am not in a position to provide a substantive response to your Parliamentary Question. If this matter remains of continuing concern to you, however, I would invite you to raise it with me again in due course.
152 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Transport the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of his Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if he will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27513/10]
The information sought by the Deputy is currently being compiled by my Department and will be forwarded as soon as possible.
153 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Transport the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of his Department in each of the past three years, the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27528/10]
The information sought by the Deputy is currently being compiled by my Department and will be forwarded as soon as possible.
154 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the legal basis and/or administrative scheme governing the visas issued to foreign diplomats here, the staff of the foreign embassies and household workers employed by the foreign diplomats; the specific type of visas issued to these categories of persons; the terms and conditions of these visas and the criteria for issuing them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27387/10]
The status of diplomatic and other staff of foreign missions, including private domestic workers or private servants employed by diplomats, is governed by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations 1961 which, under the Diplomatic Relations and Immunities Act 1967, has the force of law in the State. The Convention provides that the sending state must notify the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or such other ministry as may be agreed, in the receiving state of the arrival and departure of diplomatic staff, their family members and private servants and the engagement and discharge of persons resident in the receiving state as members of the mission or private servants entitled to privileges and immunities.
Visa rules provide that citizens of certain countries require a visa to travel to Ireland and where such persons come within the Convention and are posted to Ireland they must obtain an Irish visa prior to entry to the State. There are no particular conditions attached to the visa granted other than that it has been issued for the purpose of allowing the person to take up the assignment.
The Immigration Act 2004 provides that a person who is entitled to privileges and immunities under the Diplomatic Relations and Immunities Act 1967 is not subject to the 2004 Act. However, once admitted to Ireland, the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service will, at the request of the Department of Foreign Affairs, place in the person's passport an endorsement confirming his or her status in the State. The person concerned is not required to register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau. The person is expected to leave the State once the assignment is at an end.
155 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 156 of 9 June 2010, the policy of the visa office in Beijing (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27271/10]
Based on the information provided by the Deputy and in the absence of specific detail, I am unable to provide a substantive response. I can however advise that it is the general policy of the Visa Office, Beijing to refuse visas to a group of individuals travelling together where one individual in the party submits false, fraudulent or misleading information. The discovery of false, fraudulent or misleading information in one application as part of a group can lead to a legitimate and reasonable concern in respect of the other group members' documentation and the reliability of the group as a whole. This is particularly the case where the group concerned are represented by a third party or agent. There may be exceptions to this general policy, depending on the particular circumstances of the case and the track record of any institution involved.
156 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 157 of 9 June 2010, considering the importance of the role of visa officials in international education, if he will indicate the appropriateness of training on an ad hoc informal basis; if he will outline the steps that are taken to ensure that visas are being processed in an appropriate and fair manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27272/10]
157 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 157 of 9 June 2010, if training is given to visa officials and their support staff that enables them to assess the educational qualifications or proficiency in English of a visa applicant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27273/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 156 and 157 together.
As stated in my reply to Parliamentary Question 157 of 9 June 2010, Visa Officers are provided with on the job training and support by more experienced Visa Officers in the section. This approach is considered to be the most logical and indeed best suited to delivering a quality customer service to visa required nationals.
In general, a percentage of decisions made by Visa Officers are reviewed each month by an official at a more senior level for quality assurance purposes. Also, in line with best practice, where a visa has not been granted the applicant is afforded the opportunity to appeal the decision of the Visa Officer. It should be borne in mind that visa applications are sometimes refused because the applicants have neglected to include all the necessary documents required in order to assist the Visa Officer in arriving at a decision. I am satisfied that Visa Officers of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service carry out their functions in a consistent and careful manner and that decisions on visa applications are made in an objective manner.
Each application is considered on its individual merits based on the documentation/evidence provided by the applicant. It is always the case that the onus rests with the applicant to satisfy the Visa Officer as to why a visa should be granted. In order to assist visa applicants, guidelines on the visa process including details of the documents required are available on the website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (www.inis.gov.ie). On the basis of the above, I am satisfied that the functions carried out by the Visa Section of the Irish Naturalisation Service are in line with international standards and best practice.
Where an applicant seeks a visa for the purpose of study, one key consideration of the Visa Officer is to assess the educational qualifications and, in certain instances, the proficiency in English of a visa applicant. Critically, the applicant must provide evidence that they have attained the necessary level of academic achievement required to follow their chosen course. If the applicant does not have the appropriate standard of English, it calls into question the credibility of the applicant. Evidence that a visa officer takes into consideration, in this regard, includes exam results, qualifications obtained and certificates attesting that the applicant possesses the required level of English.
With regard to establishing proficiency in English, it is recommended that applicants, regardless of nationality or educational background, undertake the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) English Language Test. Where proficiency is established, applicants are advised to provide original certification of this with their visa application. Proficiency in English is not a prerequisite where a visa application is solely for an English language course. A Visa Officer will however seek to establish whether or not the proposed course is consistent with the applicant's general academic or work background, based on the documentation provided by the applicant. Essentially the educational qualifications and proficiency in English of an individual is established on the basis of the certification and documents provided by the applicant.
158 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will account for the lack of fines, proceedings and convictions for footpath cycling. [27286/10]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that members of An Garda Síochána enforce the law on cycling on footpaths on an ongoing basis as part of their normal duties. In addition to the day to day enforcement of the relevant provisions of the Road Traffic Acts, breaches of the legislation in respect of pedal cycle behaviour is regularly targeted by way of various Garda operations. I am also informed that, where breaches of the legislation are detected, members of An Garda Síochána, depending on the circumstances, may deal with the incident by way of advice or caution or by initiating criminal proceedings.
Educational talks are regularly given by members of the Regional Road Safety Units and through the Garda Schools Programme on road safety and road traffic legislation, including on cycling, to young people and other identified high-risk road users to encourage increased compliance. The issuing of convictions and penalties is a matter for the courts, which are, subject to the Constitution and the law, independent in the performance of their functions.
159 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the technology being used by the authorities to identify and pursue those downloading child pornography and the resources provided for same; the penalties for those convicted; if he is satisfied that these penalties are adequate; the number of convictions to date for downloading child pornography; the level of co-operation with international law enforcement agencies to bring these criminals to justice; if any Internet providers who provide and facilitate child pornography here have been shut down. [27287/10]
The Garda Síochána Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Investigation Unit, operating within the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, is responsible for the investigation of criminal offences involving child pornography. The Unit contains trained specialists and can be augmented by personnel from other units of the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation if required.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that any suspected offence involving the abuse of children through the internet or other technology, whether originating in this jurisdiction or coming to the attention of An Garda Síochána through international agencies or by any other means, is subject to thorough investigation and cooperation by An Garda Síochána. Specialist computer software is available to An Garda Síochána and is utilised to gather information and intelligence on possible suspects operating in this jurisdiction. The resources available for the investigation of this type of crime are continuously monitored by the Garda authorities, and I am informed that they are currently considered to be sufficient.
The Child Trafficking and Pornography Act 1998 provides penalties for child pornography offences which I consider to be robust. The offence of knowingly possessing child pornography attracts a maximum prison sentence of five years or a maximum fine of €6,350 or both. The maximum penalty for knowingly producing, distributing, printing, publishing, importing, exporting, showing or selling child pornography is a maximum prison sentence of 14 years or an unlimited fine or both.
The internet is a worldwide phenomenon with no borders and no single organisation controlling it. There is, however, an existing self-regulatory framework for internet service providers (ISPs) in operation in Ireland which actively encourages the adoption of best practice procedures aimed at limiting the proliferation of illegal child pornography content online. Members of the public may report such material to the www.hotline.ie service of the Internet Service Providers' Association of Ireland (ISPAI). If the material is hosted here and deemed to be illegal and in contravention of Irish law, ISPAI members are obliged to remove such materials. If the material is hosted in another jurisdiction, it is notified to the internet hotline in that jurisdiction and/or to the relevant law enforcement agencies for follow up, with the aim of having illegal content taken down.
At present all of the mobile phone operators in Ireland, under a voluntary agreement brokered by the European Commission with the GSM Alliance Europe, the association representing European mobile phone operators, implement a form of filtering on their mobile internet service, which prevents access to websites which have been identified as containing child pornography content.
In a number of EU Member States, a system of internet blocking/filtering has been introduced on a voluntary basis, whereby a "blocklist" of sites containing child pornography is made available by the police or other competent authorities, and is utilised by individual ISPs to prevent access to such content. A number of other Member States have introduced or are considering the introduction of legislation requiring ISPs to block access to websites containing child pornography. It is generally acknowledged that all such internet blocking or filtering systems are not foolproof and can be circumvented in certain circumstances. However, such filtering systems are understood to be useful in preventing internet users from inadvertently encountering such illegal content.
The issue of the possible utilisation of blocking/filtering methodologies to prevent access to identified webpages containing child pornography is being considered further by my Department's Office for Internet Safety with advice from the Internet Safety Advisory Council. In undertaking research in this area, the Office for Internet Safety has had discussions with a variety of relevant interests in relation to the possibility of introducing internet filtering, specifically in respect of illegal child pornography content, in Ireland. However, I should make it clear that no decisions have been arrived at on this issue of internet filtering/blocking at national level. Any proposals for introducing such a system would need, at the very least, to be submitted to Government for consideration. The introduction of any such system, particularly if on a mandatory basis, may require the introduction of primary legislation.
However, a draft proposal for a Directive on combating the sexual abuse, sexual exploitation of children and child pornography was published recently by the European Commission. The draft Directive contains a proposal to require Member States to implement some form of blocking system in relation to websites containing child pornography. Ireland's participation in the adoption and implementation of this measure is subject to Government and Oireachtas approval.
The Garda Síochána Act 2005 makes provision for the compilation and publication of crime statistics by the Central Statistics Office, as the national statistical agency, and the CSO has established a dedicated unit for this purpose. I have requested the CSO to provide statistics directly to the Deputy.
160 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will support a matter (details supplied). [27299/10]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the area referred to is in the Coolock Garda District. Local Garda management is aware that two dogs have died in this area in the last 18 months. However, no complaint has been made to An Garda Síochána in this regard, and there is no evidence to suggest criminal behaviour. Any such incident reported to An Garda Síochána will be investigated.
I am further informed that a report was made to An Garda Síochána in respect of an item which was found in the garden of a house in the area and which was suspected to contain a poisonous substance. The item has been sent for forensic analysis, the results of which are awaited. This incident remains under Garda investigation.
161 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will support a matter (details supplied). [27326/10]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the area referred to is in the Raheny Garda District. I am further informed that local Garda management is not aware of any incidents of the type referred to by the Deputy having occurred. Any such incident reported to An Garda Síochána will be investigated. The area is subject to regular patrols by uniform and plain clothes personnel, Including the Community Policing Unit, the Garda Mountain Bike Unit and the local Detective and Drugs Units, supplemented as required by the Divisional Crime Task Force and Traffic Corps personnel.
Local Garda management closely monitors and keeps under review patrols and other operational strategies in place, in conjunction with crime trends and policing needs of the communities in the area, to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public. Current policing strategies are designed to prevent crime, public order offences and anti-social behaviour, and community policing is a central feature and core value of policing policy. Community policing is a central feature of policing policy. This will ensure an environment conducive to the improvement of the quality of life for residents.
162 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding an application for citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27362/10]
A valid application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in October 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.
163 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding an application in respect of a person (details supplied). [27380/10]
A valid application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in 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. 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.
164 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding an application in respect of a person (details supplied). [27382/10]
The application of the above named applicant is registered at the appeal stage of the asylum process. If an application for asylum has been made by the person concerned the Deputy will of course be aware that it is not the practice to comment on asylum applications that are pending.
165 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of Garda checkpoints to facilitate the programme of random breath testing that were carried out in 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27402/10]
The information requested by the Deputy is currently being compiled. I will contact the Deputy when the information is to hand.
166 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will renew a travel document in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford. [27409/10]
The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) informs me that the person in question was refused renewal of a travel document on 03 June 2010 as the Travel Document Unit was not in receipt of information regarding the outcome of the court proceedings referred to. The letter referred to in the Deputy's question was not provided with this application. Reference to a further application lodged on 11 June 2010 relates to an email communication from the person concerned addressed to INIS seeking the renewal of this travel document.
It is open to the person in question to submit a new application for a temporary travel document accompanied by the relevant supporting documentation to the Travel Document Unit of INIS which is located at 13-14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2. Full information in this regard and the application form is available on the INIS website which is www.inis.gov.ie.
167 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if family reunification will be granted in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27477/10]
I wish to inform the Deputy that the mother of the person to whom he refers was granted permission to remain in the State in June of 2005 under the revised arrangements for the non-EEA parents of children born in Ireland prior to 1 January, 2005, known as the IBC/05 Scheme. This permission expired on 14 June, 2010 and she is therefore advised to attend her local Immigration Office in order to have that permission to remain in the State renewed, if she has not already done so.
With regard to the issue of possible of family reunification raised by the Deputy, I wish to make clear that the granting of permission to remain in the State under the IBC/05 Scheme does not confer any entitlement or legitimate expectation on any other person, whether related to the person granted permission or not, to enter or remain in the State. All applicants granted permission to remain under the Scheme signed an undertaking to this effect. It is, however, open to all non-EEA nationals, who are resident outside the State, and who are visa-required to enter the State, to apply to their nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate for an entry visa. Comprehensive guidelines on making a visa application can be found on the website www.inis.gov.ie.
168 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the progress to date in the determination of residency and citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27478/10]
The person concerned has had his leave to remain in the State renewed for a further three year period, to 18 April 2013. This decision was conveyed in writing to the person concerned by letter dated 19 April 2010.
169 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding an application for naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27479/10]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's question was received in the Citizenship Section of my Department on 20 August, 2003. On examination of the application it was determined that the person concerned did not meet the statutory residency requirements as set out in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. A letter informing the applicant of this was issued on 25 October 2005. It is open to the individual concerned to lodge a new application if and when she is in a position to meet the statutory residency requirements.
170 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27480/10]
As the name and reference number supplied by the Deputy do not match, it is not possible to definitively identify the person to whom the Deputy is referring in his Question. However, if the Deputy wishes to re-submit his Question with the correct details included, I will be happy to provide a substantive response.
171 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27481/10]
I am informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that the person referred to by the Deputy has no application pending for residency. The person concerned is the subject of a Deportation Order following a comprehensive and thorough examination of his asylum claim, and a comprehensive and thorough examination of the representations he submitted for consideration under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended).
The person concerned submitted an application for permission to remain in the State on the basis of his marriage to an Irish national, which was refused. The person concerned also submitted an application for residency under EU Treaty Rights. This was refused as the spouse of the person concerned is an Irish citizen and therefore Directive 2004/38/EC does not apply. The effect of the Deportation Order is that the person concerned must leave the State and remain thereafter out of the State. The enforcement of the Deportation Order is an operational matter for the Garda National Immigration Bureau.
172 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding residency or naturalisation in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27482/10]
I wish to inform the Deputy that the person to whom he refers, a Sierra Leone national, was granted permission to remain in the State under Stamp 4 conditions on 5 February 2001 under the arrangements then in place for the non-EEA parents of Irish citizen children. His latest permission expired on 23 November, 2009 and has not been renewed pending clarification about his situation in the State. In this regard, the person in question will shortly be written to and informed of any decision made regarding his status in the State.
173 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27483/10]
I refer the Deputy to my detailed Reply to his earlier Parliamentary Question, No 628 of Tuesday, 19 January 2010. The person concerned now falls to be considered for Subsidiary Protection in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 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. Due to the high volume of cases on hands, it is not possible to say when the case of the person concerned will be finalised. However, the Deputy can be assured that this case will be processed to completion as soon as possible.
174 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding an application for asylum or residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27484/10]
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.
I am informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that the person referred to by the Deputy has no application pending for residency. The person concerned is the subject of a Deportation Order following a comprehensive and thorough examination of his asylum claim, and a comprehensive and thorough examination of the representations he submitted for consideration under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended). 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.
175 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27485/10]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Dáil Question number 90 of 3rd June, 2010. The position remains unchanged. The person is recorded as having evaded her Transfer Order and is currently being sought by the Garda National Immigration Bureau. She should make herself known to them without further delay so that arrangements can be made for her transfer to Belgium.
176 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27486/10]
I have been informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that to date they have not received an application for further leave to remain in the State from the persons referred to by the Deputy. It is open to the persons concerned to write directly to Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service, 13/14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2 setting out their position.
177 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of his Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if he will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27510/10]
The total amount claimed by the Secretary General of my Department in respect of travel, subsistence and entertainment expenses incurred by him in the discharge of his duties in the year to date (1st June 2010) was €1,348; €126 of this amount was in respect of entertainment, €145 was in respect of miscellaneous items and the rest was in respect of expenses incurred in attending meetings involving colleagues from neighbouring jurisdictions. The information sought by the Deputy in respect of the period prior to this year is being collated and validated. It will be supplied to the Deputy when this exercise is completed.
178 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of his Department in each of the past three years, the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27525/10]
The information sought by the Deputy is in the process of being collated and finalised. It will be supplied to the Deputy when this task is complete.
179 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will clarify the position on the designation of the European Union’s trade agreement with Columbia; if this agreement is viewed by Ireland and the EU as being a mixed one or rather solely commercial; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27381/10]
Under the provisions of the Lisbon Treaty, the Union has exclusive competence for the EU's Common Commercial Policy. In international trade negotiations, the Commission negotiates on behalf of the Union, on the basis of a mandate that it receives from the Council. On 1 March, negotiations on a Multiparty Free Trade Agreement between the EU and two member states of the Andean Community — Colombia and Peru — concluded in Brussels. The conclusion of the negotiations was noted by Heads of State and Government at the EU- Latin America and Caribbean Summit in Madrid on 18 May.
The Commission will, in due course, bring forward proposals to the Council authorising the signature and conclusion of the EU- Andean Multiparty Trade Agreement. The issue of the designation of the Agreement as one which involves mixed competence requiring approval and ratification by all 27 Member States or one in which the Union has exclusive competence will be determined in the light of analysis of its content and of legal advice when the Commission has submitted its proposals to the Council. In any event, the approval of the European Parliament will be required before the Agreement can be signed and ratified.
180 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of his Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if he will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27508/10]
181 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of his Department in each of the past three years, the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27523/10]
I propose to answer Questions Nos.180 and 181 together.
The total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of my department, by Deputy Secretaries and by Assistant Secretaries in respect of travel and entertainment are set out in the tables below.
|
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
2010 to date |
|
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Secretary General |
49,882 |
47,219 |
16,536 |
4,950 |
|
Dermot Gallagher (up to 01/2009) |
||||
|
David Cooney (01/2009 to date) |
||||
|
Consular Services |
5,897 |
16,783 |
1,696 |
1,393 |
|
Ray Bassett |
||||
|
Inspection Unit/Strategy and Performance Unit |
13,019 |
19,569 |
7,793 |
899 |
|
John Neary (up to 09/2009) |
||||
|
Marie Cross (08/2009 to date) |
||||
|
Political Division |
50,326 |
33,245 |
14,271 |
8,801 |
|
Rory Montgomery (up to 04/2009) |
||||
|
David Donoghue (04/2009 to date) |
||||
|
European Union Division |
25,104 |
16,788 |
15,615 |
2,574 |
|
Dan Mulhall (up to 08/2009) |
||||
|
Peter Gunning (08/2009 to date) |
||||
|
Promoting Ireland Abroad |
18,194 |
18,447 |
19,667 |
186 |
|
Mary Whelan (up to 09/2009) |
||||
|
John Neary (09/2009 to date) |
||||
|
Anglo-Irish Division |
14,660 |
17,240 |
11,008 |
859 |
|
Patrick Hennessy (up to 10/2009) |
||||
|
Adrian O’Neill (10/2009 to 02/2010) |
||||
|
Corporate Services |
1,934 |
1,461 |
2,122 |
nil |
|
Adrian O’Neill (up to 10/2009) |
||||
|
Barrie Robinson (11/2009 to date) |
||||
|
Protocol Division |
30,109 |
11,802 |
17,999 |
1,407 |
|
Kathleen White |
||||
|
DCD |
56,222 |
75,424 |
57,890 |
34,523 |
|
Dr. James Kiely (10/2008 to date) |
||||
|
Brendan Rogers |
||||
|
Ronan Murphy (up to 10/2008) |
||||
|
Michael Gaffey (06/2008 to date) |
||||
|
Legal Division |
9,336 |
7,181 |
15,702 |
3,404 |
|
Patricia O’Brien (up to 09/2008) |
||||
|
James Kingston (09/2008 to date) |
|
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
2010 to date |
|
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Secretary General |
1,380 |
1,481 |
408 |
0 |
|
Dermot Gallagher (up to 01/2009) |
||||
|
David Cooney (01/2009 to date) |
||||
|
Consular Services |
* |
* |
* |
* |
|
Ray Bassett |
||||
|
Inspection Unit/Strategy and Performance Unit |
— |
182 |
201 |
291 |
|
John Neary (up to 09/2009) |
||||
|
Marie Cross (08/2009) |
||||
|
Political Division |
1,448 |
2,523 |
179 |
1,080 |
|
Rory Montgomery (up to 04/2009) |
||||
|
David Donoghue (04/2009 to date) |
||||
|
European Union Division |
— |
306 |
648 |
712 |
|
Dan Mulhall (up to 08/2009) |
||||
|
Peter Gunning (08/2009 to date) |
||||
|
Promoting Ireland Abroad |
* |
220 |
727 |
255 |
|
Mary Whelan (up to 09/2009) |
||||
|
John Neary (09/2009 to date) |
||||
|
Anglo-Irish Division |
292 |
335 |
161 |
38 |
|
Patrick Hennessy (up to 10/2009) |
||||
|
Adrian O’Neill (10/2009 to 02/2010) |
||||
|
Corporate Services |
378 |
1,206 |
176 |
304 |
|
Adrian O’Neill (up to 10/2009) |
||||
|
Barrie Robinson (11/2009 to date) |
||||
|
Protocol Division |
789 |
345 |
667 |
454 |
|
Kathleen White |
||||
|
DCD |
4,018 |
3,117 |
4,513 |
1,393 |
|
Dr. James Kiely (10/2008 to date) |
||||
|
Brendan Rogers |
||||
|
Ronan Murphy (up to 10/2008) |
||||
|
Michael Gaffey (06/2008 to date) |
||||
|
Legal Division |
271 |
203 |
506 |
— |
|
Patricia O’Brien (up-to 09/2008) |
||||
|
James Kingston (09/2008 to date) |
*Data not retrievable in the time available.
As the Deputy will appreciate, both the Secretary General and the Assistant Secretaries serving at my Department, by the nature of the Department's responsibilities, are obliged to undertake a significant amount of official travel overseas. My Department is fully compliant with the Department of Finance guidelines on foreign travel and also operates its own detailed internal travel guidelines which ensure cost effective travel practises. The central aim of the Departmental travel policy is to minimise official travel costs and to achieve value for money for expenditure necessarily incurred, consistent with the effective discharge of official duties.
In my Department, a General Entertainment budget is provided for various types of expenses incurred by Divisions of my Department including entertainment costs incurred in relation to the Irish Aid programme. My Department takes all appropriate measures to ensure that costs are kept as low as possible. The Department's practice with regard to the appropriate level of entertainment provided is based on agreed EU Guidelines and on reciprocity. There have been significant reductions in the budgets assigned for general and state entertainment in recent years. The current budget for entertainment reflects a 30% reduction on the 2009 figure, which in turn represented a reduction of 11% on the preceding year.
182 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the progress made in implementing the Points of Alignment report published in 2008; the discussions she has had with the Department of Education and Skills and the Arts Council on implementing the recommendations of this report; if it is her policy to implement the recommendations of this report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27375/10]
The Deputy may be aware that my colleague, Minister of State Mansergh spoke recently on this matter in the Seanad. From my perspective, as a former Minister for Education and Science, I can recognise and appreciate the benefits of the widest possible experiences being available to students. Included in these experiences must be interaction with the arts. It was this recognition which prompted the commissioning of a Report from the Arts Council to examine this vital topic.
It should be noted that within the constraints of the existing system, the education and arts sectors co-operate fully to ensure the optimal delivery of services. The artists in schools guidelines issued to schools, which were developed by the Department of Education and Science and the Arts Council working in partnership, are an important resource in informing schools of how best to plan, implement and evaluate partnerships with local artists and organisations which will provide stimulating and interesting learning experiences for children. They encapsulate the vision of arts in education practice which is set out in the points of alignment report.
There can be no argument as to the fact that providing the arts with a higher and more consistent profile at primary and post-primary level can benefit the students concerned significantly with consequent benefits to society. It is important to stress that this applies to all students and not just those recognised as being gifted artistically. Given that, as is the case in sport, the future of the arts resides with our children, we recognise the importance of the exposure of students to the arts at all levels in our education system.
The Arts Council has pursued at all times a policy of engaging with young people, whether through its specific programmes or by its support of organisations specialising in arts in education interventions, such as The Ark and Team in Dublin, and of theatrical groups. This is supplemented too by the Education and Outreach programmes run by all of our National Cultural Institutions and other agencies funded by my Department. It is intended, when resources permit, to revisit the proposed actions in this report.
189 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the extent of capital or current funding provided by her Department for various sporting, recreational or similar activities throughout County Kildare in 2007, 2008 and 2009, both from the proceeds of the national lottery or from other sources; the intended expenditure from each source in 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27493/10]
190 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the extent of capital or current funding provided by her Department for various sporting, recreational, or similar activities in 2007, 2008 and 2009 both from the proceeds of the national lottery or from other sources; the intended expenditure from each source in 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27494/10]
192 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the full extent of intended expenditure by way of capital grant aid towards major and minor sporting recreational activities in 2010; the extent and level of such expenditure in 2008 and 2009; if all previous allocations have been fully drawn down; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27496/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 189, 190 and 192 together.
Under the Sports Capital Programme (SCP), which is administered by my Department, and part funded from the proceeds of the National Lottery, funding is allocated to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. While no decision has been made on the timing of the next round of the SCP, €48 million has been provided in my Department's Vote in the 2010 Estimates to cover payments to be made from the C1 subhead, out of which grants are paid for the provision of sports and recreation facilities in respect of previously awarded grants. It is expected that all of this funding will be paid out to sports clubs and organisations this year.
As the drawdown of outstanding allocations is dependent on the timely receipt of invoices and other documentation from the grantees it is not possible to predict the exact amount of SCP drawdown from any county during a particular period of time. The figures for payments under the SCP on projects funded under the programme up to and including 2008 for each of the last three years are set out in the table below:
|
Year |
Total Expenditure |
Kildare |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
2009 |
58,738,337 |
1,654,421 |
|
2008 |
60,137,146 |
687,451 |
|
2007 |
63,719,986 |
1,031,964 |
Under the Local Authority Swimming Pools Programme (LASPP) a provision of €7.5m has been made in 2010 which will be sufficient to meet existing commitments under current round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme, including payments of €380,921.40 for projects funded in County Kildare. No decision has been made on the timing of a new round of the programme. The figures for expenditure under the LASPP for each of the last three years, for County Kildare and for the whole country, are set out in the table below:
|
Year |
Total Expenditure |
Kildare |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
2009 |
11,670,434 |
Nil |
|
2008 |
20,448,420 |
4,801,336 |
|
2007 |
27,786,790 |
2,055,250 |
At the end of 2009 the total level of outstanding commitments on hand from previous rounds of the Sports Capital programme was just over €117m. Details of allocations made to projects in Co. Kildare under the SCP are available on the Department's website — www.tcs.ie
The Deputy will be aware that the Irish Sports Council (ISC), which is funded by the Department, has a statutory role in the promotion, development and coordination of sport. The ISC was established on a statutory basis on 1st July, 1999, and the functions of the Council are outlined in Section 6 of the Irish Sports Council Act 1999. Section 6 (1)(a) states that one of the functions of the Council shall be "to encourage the promotion, development and coordination of competitive sport and the achievement of excellence in competitive sport." Section 6.1 (b) states, as one of the functions of the Council, that the ISC has responsibility for developing "strategies for increasing participation in recreational sport and to coordinate their implementation by all bodies (including public authorities and publicly funded bodies) involved in promoting recreational sport and providing recreational facilities. Details of spending by the ISC in Co. Kildare, primarily in respect of Co. Kildare LSP is available from the Irish Sports Council.
191 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the extent of funds from the national lottery made available to her Department for expenditure on various projects in each of the past three years and to date in 2010; the full extent likely in 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27495/10]
As the Deputy will be aware, the allocation of the proceeds of the National Lottery is a matter for the Minister for Finance. The elements of my Department's Vote which are part-funded by proceeds of the National Lottery are as follows:
Subhead C.1 — Grants for sporting bodies and for the provision of sports and recreational facilities under the Sports Capital Programme;
Subhead C.3 — Grant-in-Aid provided to the Irish Sports Council in respect of general assistance to sports organisations and expenditure in relation to sports activities; and
Subhead D.7 — Grant-in-Aid allocation provided to the Arts Council.
Details of the allocations for these subheads for the each of the past three years and for 2010 are outlined in the Revised Books of Estimates.
193 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of her Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if she will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27514/10]
The total expenses claimed (which includes mileage and subsistence), the cost of foreign and domestic travel by air, and official entertainment incurred by the Secretary General of my Department in the course of his duties are detailed below:
|
2008 |
2009> |
YTD 2010 |
|
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Expenses claimed |
4,636.89 |
2,281.74 |
885.65 |
|
Travel |
606.95 |
65.78 |
62.98 |
|
Official Entertainment |
1,089.02 |
229.85 |
304.15 |
194 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of her Department in each of the past three years, the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27529/10]
The total expenses claimed (which includes mileage and subsistence), the cost of foreign and domestic travel by air, and official entertainment incurred by the three Assistant Secretaries of my Department in the course of their duties are detailed below:
|
Expenses claimed |
2008 |
2009 |
YTD 2010 |
|
A/Sec Tourism |
6,029.86 |
2,934.49 |
1,270.44 |
|
A/Sec Sport |
7,423.39 |
6,172.08 |
917.09 |
|
A/Sec Arts & Culture |
6,315.79 |
2,483.67 |
— |
|
Travel |
2008 |
2009 |
YTD 2010 |
|
A/Sec Tourism |
618.50 |
344.11 |
253.42 |
|
A/Sec Sport |
9,724.22 |
159.89 |
257.00 |
|
A/Sec Arts & Culture |
806.38 |
169.88 |
305.83 |
|
Official Entertainment |
2008 |
2009 |
YTD 2010 |
|
A/Sec Tourism |
— |
— |
— |
|
A/Sec Sport |
16.50 |
— |
— |
|
A/Sec Arts & Culture |
712.42 |
941.15 |
543.32 |
195 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will clarify if his concern in relation to community development projects is with the reduction of structures with which they currently have a funding relationship, or if it is the reduction of the number of structures overall in the community sector, or is it the focus on reducing independent community sector activity or achieving reductions for the purpose of achieving savings in Department funded programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27282/10]
As the Deputy will be aware, the then Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs was established in 2002 against a background of concern at the multiplicity of structures and agencies through which local and community development schemes and programmes were delivered. It inherited a number of local and community programmes with diverse structures, which had been operated under the aegis of several different Departments. Clearly, there was an inherent danger of fragmentation of services and the diffusion of resources.
The cohesion process initiated some years ago to address these issues resulted in a significant reduction of local delivery structures for a range of rural and local development programmes. Until last year, there were almost 100 partnerships/local development companies and LEADER companies operating. The cohesion process has resulted in that number being reduced to a total of 52 entities providing full county-wide coverage across the country.
My Department still has a wide agenda of reform to advance. The next phase, which is under way, concerns improving and joining up the outputs of programmes, as well as further consolidating structures. The Local Development Social Inclusion Programme and the Community Development Programme (LDSIP and CDP) were my Department's two main social inclusion and community development programmes and were delivered through separate local delivery structures. These programmes came to an end on 31 December 2009 and were superseded by a new programme, the Local and Community Development Programme (LCDP).
As the Deputy is aware, an implementation strategy involving the stakeholders is underway for LCDP roll-out over the course of 2010. Integrated workplans have now been developed by the local development companies and the CDPs covering all local development company areas. The next phase to the end of June covers the development of local integration plans for reduced structures from January 2011.
A key difference between the new LCDP and its predecessor programmes is the fact that, when fully implemented, it will be delivered nationally on an integrated basis by a reduced number of companies. My Department has set out a national model for integrated service delivery and structures at a local level, which would involve, among other things, the re-constitution of the voluntary CDP boards from the end of 2010. Each board would then form an advisory committee to the local development company and act as the voluntary management committee for the local project. This approach will preserve the community development ethos in areas and will not detract from the key essential services and supports being provided through the CDP. In addition, the new programme will enable groups to more objectively demonstrate the positive impacts and outcomes they are securing to meet the needs of local communities.
As I have previously indicated, my primary concern is to make every effort to ensure that the front-line services provided by, or supported through, my Department — especially those providing tangible benefits for the most disadvantaged communities — are protected.
196 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if he accepts that the deadline of 30 June 2010 for the submission of integration plans is unsustainable, unfair and unjustifiable in view of the fact that he has not given a decision on any of the range of alternatives submitted by various areas around the country for consideration by him; if he will clarify if alternatives that have been positively assessed by his Department will become available as options for those in other areas of the country; if so, when this information will be made available to groups nationally in view of the fact that the deadline is 30 June 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27288/10]
197 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will delay the 30 June 2010 deadline for submissions for community development project plans until the information is clarified and available to all in the interests of enabling and facilitating the best outcome for anti-poverty, social inclusion and equality at local level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27290/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 196 and 197 together.
As the Deputy is aware, the Local Development Social Inclusion Programme and the Community Development Programme were my Department's two main social inclusion/community development programmes. These came to an end on 31 December last and have been superseded by a new integrated programme, the Local and Community Development Programme (LCDP). A key difference between the new LCDP and its predecessor programmes is the fact that, when fully implemented, it will be delivered nationally on an integrated basis by a reduced number of companies.
As the Deputy is aware, my Department has set out a national model involving full integration of CDPs with local development companies (LDCs), but has made it clear that other options can be considered and that it is not a question of ‘one size fits all'. The only option not acceptable is one that seeks to preserve the status quo: some models proposed by CDPs and other parties in the period since the launch of the LCDP have had to be rejected on that basis. However, my Department has been able to respond positively to a number of other alternative models put forward by both LDCs and CDPs.
While agreement has not yet been fully finalised in these cases, I am satisfied that the real possibility for agreement exists. It is anticipated that such models, if agreed, would be for use in a small number of specific areas only. Additional proposals from other CDPs and LDCs are also being examined but are less developed at this stage. I can assure the Deputy, however, that my Department will continue to respond positively to all constructive proposals that it receives and that my officials will continue to be available to meet with the boards of projects.
All CDPs and LDCs that are currently in receipt of funding through the LCDP have signed up to implement the programme in the context of my Department's full integration strategy and to meet specified deadline dates (submission of workplan by 26 March 2010 and of integration plan by 30 June 2010). The position is that, unless a project has received provisional approval from my Department for an alternative LCDP integration model, groups are still required to submit their plans for full integration by 30 June. It is not anticipated that there will be any general extension to that deadline.
198 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will give assurances that the approach of his Department in dealing and working with community organisations and the principles of the White Paper on a framework for supporting voluntary activity and for developing the relationship between the State and the community and voluntary sector will be continued constructive and positive; if he will give further assurance that his Department will enter into dialogue with the sector with a view to developing an alternative workable and respectful relationship to resolve mutually agreed problems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27311/10]
My Department is committed to the ongoing development of supports to strengthen and underpin the work of the community and voluntary sector in Ireland. Indeed, the growth of the sector in recent years has been accompanied by a significant expansion of supports by Government.
Policy initiatives are underpinned by the ‘Towards 2016' Partnership Agreement and the White Paper on a Framework for Supporting Voluntary Activity, which recognises the valuable role of the community & voluntary sector. The agreement notes that the great strength of voluntary activity is that it emerges organically from communities and points out that while the Government should not seek to control and be involved in every aspect of voluntary activity, it does have a responsibility to provide an enabling framework to help the sector.
My Department manages a broad range of schemes and programmes that support the wider community & voluntary sector. Details of these are available on my Department's website — www.pobail.ie. While, as the Deputy is aware, the Scheme to Support National Organisations in the Community and Voluntary Sector is currently under review in my Department, all organisations involved in the scheme are being consulted as part of the review process. Such a consultative and constructive approach is also a strong feature of other interactions between my Department and the sector (e.g. in relation to the area of charity regulation) and I anticipate that this will continue to be the case in the future.
199 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if, in his current review of the scheme to support national organisations in the community and voluntary sector, he will provide adequate funding to enable those national organisations working to alleviate poverty, exclusion and inequality empower and respond to the needs of disadvantaged groups and communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27377/10]
Funding contracts under the scheme referred to by the Deputy are due to expire on 31 December 2010. Officials in my Department are currently carrying out a review of the scheme and I hope that this process will be completed by the autumn. On the basis of the findings of the review, I will consider the options available to me. All organisations involved in the scheme are being consulted as part of the review process. It should be noted that I am planning to meet this week with representatives of ‘Voices that Matter', a grouping of national networks and organisations in the sector.
200 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of his Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if he will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27502/10]
The expenses claimed by the Secretary General in my Department in the three years from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2009 are set out in the table below. These constitute travel & subsistence expenses and the cost of flights. No entertainment expenses were claimed. In all cases, travel & subsistence was paid in respect of absences on official business and in accordance with Department of Finance guidelines.
|
Year |
Home Expenses |
Foreign Expenses |
||||
|
Subsistence |
Travel |
Total |
Subsistence |
Travel |
Total |
|
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2007 |
930 |
3,151 |
4,081 |
1,187 |
4,362 |
5,549 |
|
2008 |
1,038 |
2,692 |
3,730 |
2,280 |
5,172 |
7,452 |
|
2009 |
1,211 |
1,981 |
3,192 |
21 |
11 |
33 |
201 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of his Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27517/10]
The expenses claimed by Assistant Secretaries in my Department in the three years from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2009 are set out in the tables below. These constitute travel & subsistence expenses and the cost of flights. No entertainment expenses were claimed. In all cases, travel and subsistence was paid in respect of absences on official business and in accordance with Department of Finance guidelines.
|
Year |
Home Expenses |
Foreign Expenses |
||||
|
Subsistence |
Travel |
Total |
Subsistence |
Travel |
Total |
|
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2007 |
1,861 |
6,353 |
8,214 |
299 |
21 |
320 |
|
2008 |
1,841 |
6,305 |
8,146 |
1,132 |
2,764 |
3,896 |
|
2009 |
1,709 |
4,862 |
6,571 |
1,360 |
1,131 |
2,490 |
|
Year |
Home Expenses |
Foreign Expenses |
||||
|
Subsistence |
Travel |
Total |
Subsistence |
Travel |
Total |
|
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2007 |
1,827 |
5,714 |
7,541 |
942 |
671 |
1,613 |
|
2008 |
1,975 |
3,700 |
5,675 |
1,804 |
3,547 |
5,351 |
|
2009 |
2,082 |
1,895 |
3,977 |
128 |
149 |
277 |
|
Year |
Home Expenses |
Foreign Expenses |
||||
|
Subsistence |
Travel |
Total |
Subsistence |
Travel |
Total |
|
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2007 |
455 |
861 |
1,316 |
— |
— |
— |
|
2008 |
1,047 |
3,001 |
4,048 |
583 |
1,340 |
1,923 |
|
2009 |
130 |
32 |
162 |
158 |
— |
158 |
202 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive their backdated rent supplement. [27265/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
203 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when persons (details supplied) in County Kildare will be awarded mortgage interest relief; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27277/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
204 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason rent allowance was terminated in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; when same will be reinstated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27361/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
205 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when rent support will be awarded to a person (detail supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27452/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
206 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the full rent support entitlement in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27453/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
207 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when rent support will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27454/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
208 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when a review of rent support will be undertaken in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27456/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
209 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will review the amount of jobseeker’s allowance awarded in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [27304/10]
Following a revised decision, the weekly means of the person concerned have been assessed at €35 per week, which entitles him to a jobseeker's allowance payment of €161 per week from 27 April 2010 to 11 May 2010 and €190.80 per week from 12 May 2010. Any arrears due will be issued to him as soon as possible.
210 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will clarify the position regarding family income supplement payments to local authority tenants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27354/10]
The Family Income Supplement (FIS) is designed to provide income for employees on low earnings with families. This preserves the incentive to remain in employment in circumstances where the employee might only be marginally better off than if he or she were unemployed and claiming other social welfare payments.
To qualify for payment of FIS a person must be engaged in full time insurable employment which is expected to last for at least 3 months and be working for a minimum of 38 hours per fortnight or 19 hours per week. A couple may combine their hours of employment to meet the qualification criteria. The applicant must also have at least one qualified child who normally resides with them or is supported by them. Furthermore, the average family income must be below a specified amount which varies according to the number of qualified children in the family.
FIS is then calculated on the basis of 60% of the difference between the income limit for the family size and the net income of the person(s) raising the children. Net income for FIS purposes comprises of total family income less tax, employee PRSI, health contribution, income levy, superannuation contribution and pension levy. These provisions apply equally to a local authority tenant. Issues relating to the tenants of local authorities are appropriate to my colleague the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
211 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow is entitled to a pension on foot of their contributions; if this file can be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27357/10]
The qualifying conditions for State pension (contributory) require the applicant to · have entered insurable employment before attaining the age of 56 years
have at least 260 paid contribution weeks, from employment or self-employment, since entry into insurance
satisfy the yearly average condition.
The person concerned applied for State pension (contributory) in February 2010. His claim was disallowed on 25th February 2010, on the grounds that he does not satisfy the contribution condition as he only has a total of 109 paid contributions.
212 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved and paid the State non-contributory pension; and the reason this claim is taking so long to finalise. [27367/10]
The person concerned was refused the State pension (non-contributory) in October 2009 as there was insufficient information on means provided to enable the entitlement to be determined. The file was then forwarded to the Social Welfare Local Officer on the 4th February 2010 for further investigation of means. In order to determine his entitlement to the pension, the person concerned was asked on two occasions to provide a number of documents. Unfortunately, the Department has no record of this information being received. If he submits the required documentation to the Department his entitlement to a State pension (non-contributory) will be determined as quickly as possible.
213 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will make exceptions for students who have been in receipt of back-to-education allowances and third level grants as undergraduates to continue to be paid back-to-education allowance for postgraduate qualifications based on their primary degree; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27373/10]
The objective of the back to education allowance scheme is to equip people on social welfare payments with qualifications that will enable them to obtain employment in the labour market. The scheme covers courses of education from second level to Higher Diploma level in any discipline [level 8 in the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)] and to a Graduate Diploma in Education (Primary and Secondary Teaching; level 9 in NFQ) which add significantly to a person's employability. Other postgraduate qualifications such as a Master's (level 9) or Doctoral degrees (level 10) are not included.
A small number of cases have arisen where a college has granted an exemption from the requirement to hold a primary degree and has admitted a person to a Master's course on the basis of relevant life experience. In the context of the ongoing review of the operation of the scheme, it was decided to extend entitlement to back to education allowance in these instances on an exceptional basis.
The potential for further changes in certain areas was identified by my predecessor to the Joint Committee on Social and Family Affairs. These concerned duration, access to post-graduate courses, appropriateness of courses and progression. The final shape and scope of such changes are currently under consideration. The nature and structure of the scheme will continue to be monitored in the context of the objectives of the scheme and changes in the economic climate. My colleague, the Minister for Education and Skills, is responsible for administration of the student maintenance grant schemes.
214 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Social Protection if his attention has been drawn to the fact that recent amendments to rent supplement levels have created an inequitable situation between single persons, couples with no children and single parents with one child; the reasoning behind these rent supplement levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27378/10]
The Department of Social Protection funds approximately 50% of the private rented accommodation in the country and with that level of influence on rents, it is essential that the maximum rent limits for rent supplement reflect real prices so that landlords are charging a fair rent and the State pays a fair price. Setting or retaining maximum rent limits at a higher level than are justified can have a distorting effect on the rental market and worsen the affordability of rental accommodation unnecessarily with particular negative impact for those tenants on lower incomes.
The new limits will ensure that different categories of eligible households can continue to secure and retain suitable rented accommodation, having regard to the different rental market conditions that exist in various parts of the country. The couple rates are established based on market rates for one bedroom apartments. The single rate includes other accommodation types more suitable to single person's requirements including bed-sits and studio apartments. Couple accommodation type units tend to be larger than single person accommodation units throughout the State; this reflects the variance between the two rates. The shared accommodation limits are based on the cost of renting a room appropriate to the individuals needs. The one parent family with one child rate allows for the family to secure a two bedroom apartment if required reflecting the variance between the single and couple rates. Where circumstances arise, limits can be exceeded if the relevant Community Welfare Officer considers it appropriate.
215 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection, further to Parliamentary Question No. 407 of 15 June 2010, if he is now in a position to furnish a reply. [27390/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
216 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason for the delay in sanctioning rent allowance in respect of persons (details supplied) in County Dublin. [27410/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
217 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding a jobseeker’s application appeal case in respect of a person (details supplied). [27423/10]
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that, following receipt of the relevant Departmental papers including comments on the grounds of appeal, the appeal from the person concerned has been 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.
218 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if mortgage support can be offered in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27459/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
219 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. [27461/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
220 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if and when supplementary welfare payment will be made in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27463/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
221 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection, further to Parliamentary Question No. 196 of 17 June 2010, if this decision is in accord with EU law and Irish and French bilateral arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27466/10]
An EU citizen who is not in employment is subject to the Habitual Residence Condition when claiming benefits in Ireland. On a review of the customer's child benefit claim it was determined that she does not fulfil the HRC condition. She has appealed this decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office.
222 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare qualifies for back to education allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27467/10]
To qualify for back to education allowance a person must be in receipt of a social welfare payment for a specified period. According to the Department's records, the person concerned is not in receipt of a social welfare payment.
223 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if family income supplement will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27468/10]
The person concerned made an application for family income supplement on 10 March 2010. In order to determine the person's entitlement further information was requested in relation to his employment. On receipt of this information the claim will be decided and the person will be notified of the outcome.
224 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding jobseeker’s or carer’s allowance or alternative in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27469/10]
The person concerned was in receipt of jobseeker's allowance until the 8th June 2010 when her entitlement ceased as she had begun working in the family business. Carer's allowance is a means tested payment, made to persons who are looking after people who need full-time care and attention. The conditions for receipt of carer's allowance permit the carer to engage in employment outside the home for up to fifteen hours per week. In order to determine if the person concerned is eligible for carer's allowance or any other departmental schemes or services, she should contact her local social welfare office.
225 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an invalidity appeal in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27470/10]
I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that, following receipt of the grounds of appeal from the person concerned, the relevant Departmental papers and comments of the Department have been sought. On receipt of their response the case will be referred to an Appeals Officer for consideration. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
226 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare qualifies for retirement or transitional pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27471/10]
As the person concerned is over the age of 65, it is recommended that she submit a claim for State pension (transition) to the Department at her earliest convenience. A claim form and freepost return envelope has been issued to the person concerned. On receipt of her application, her entitlement will be fully examined, and she will be notified of the outcome without delay.
227 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection if and when mortgage support will be offered in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27472/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
228 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Social Protection the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of his Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if he will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27511/10]
229 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Social Protection the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of his Department in each of the past three years, the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27526/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 228 and 229 together.
The total expenses claimed and any expenditure incurred on travel or entertainment by the Secretary General of the Department in each of the past three years was as follows:
|
Year |
Foreign Travel (Airfare) |
Foreign Travel (Travel) |
Foreign Travel (Subsistence) |
Home Travel (Airfare) |
Home Travel (Travel) |
Home Travel (Subsistence) |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2007 |
1,536.51 |
233.17 |
4,560.43 |
238.76 |
359.79 |
551.53 |
7,480.19 |
|
2008 |
360.11 |
78.85 |
1,583.77 |
80.98 |
206.23 |
169.98 |
2,479.92 |
|
2009 |
557.83 |
21.19 |
2,063.75 |
0 |
485.32 |
571.59 |
3,699.68 |
The foreign travel includes costs associated with attendance at Social Security Conferences in Nuremberg, Vienna and Moscow and a Conference in Maastricht organised by the European Institute of Public Administration. Home travel costs relates to trips for a Departmental Senior Management Forum in Galway, Irish Management Institute Management Conference in Wicklow, and management visits to the Mid West Region and visits to Departmental offices in the North East regions.
The total expenses claimed and expenditure incurred on travel or entertainment by the Assistant Secretaries of the Department in each of the past three years was as follows:
|
Year |
Foreign Travel (Airfare) |
Foreign Travel (Travel) |
Foreign Travel (Subsistence) |
Home Travel (Airfare) |
Home Travel (Travel) |
Home Travel (Subsistence) |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2007 |
2,836.33 |
1,539.22 |
5,259.60 |
0 |
4,293.79 |
2,818.71 |
14,321.42 |
|
2008 |
6,984.58 |
612.43 |
5,927.18 |
0 |
8,696.25 |
3,462.86 |
23,438.14 |
|
2009 |
640.54 |
204.79 |
2,089.64 |
0 |
2,666.94 |
430.98 |
5,392.35 |
The foreign travel includes expenses associated with EU Social Protection Committee meetings in Brussels, EU Council meetings in Brussels and Berlin, Social Security Conference in New Zealand and a bilateral meeting in Sydney with the Australian Social Security Administration, Centrelink. Home travel includes costs related to attendance at various management meetings at decentralized, regional and local offices and attendance at conferences throughout the country including the annual meeting of Assistant Secretaries from all Government Departments.
230 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Social Protection if rent allowance is being awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if their case will be reviewed. [27552/10]
Due to staff action currently being taken in the Department, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy.
231 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason domiciliary care allowance has been refused in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Kildare. [27555/10]
The application for domiciliary care allowance, by the person concerned, was disallowed by a Deciding Officer following an assessment by a Medical Assessor of the Department who was of the opinion that the medical evidence submitted did not indicate a need for substantially more care and attention than a child of the same age who does not have a disability.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal was opened and relevant Departmental papers and comments by the Social Welfare Services on the grounds of appeal were sought. These are now to hand and 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.
232 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Defence the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of his Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if he will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27503/10]
The information requested by the Deputy is outlined in the table below.
|
Year |
Expenditure on Travel |
Expenditure on Entertainment |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2007 |
3,396.70 |
1,542.84 |
4,939.54 |
|
2008 |
3,844.36 |
203.40 |
4,047.76 |
|
2009 |
2,635.77 |
NIL |
2,635.77 |
Expenditure on travel comprises €3,450.29 on domestic travel and subsistence and €6,426.54 on foreign travel and subsistence. Expenditure on entertainment comprises the cost of hosting five official functions. I would like to reassure the Deputy that I am satisfied that the above expenditure is appropriate.
The information requested by the Deputy is outlined in the table below:
|
Year |
Expenditure on Travel |
Expenditure on Entertainment |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2007 |
3,396.70 |
1,542.84 |
4,939.54 |
|
2008 |
3,844.36 |
1,188.40 |
5,032.76 |
|
2009 |
2,635.77 |
NIL |
2,635.77 |
Expenditure on travel comprises €3,450.29 on domestic travel and subsistence and €6,426.54 on foreign travel and subsistence.
Expenditure on entertainment comprises the cost of hosting seven official functions. I would like to reassure the Deputy that I am satisfied that the above expenditure is appropriate.
233 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Defence the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of his Department in each of the past three years, the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27518/10]
The information requested by the Deputy is outlined in the table below.
|
Year |
Expenditure on Travel |
Expenditure on Entertainment |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2007 |
9,288.18 |
356.75 |
9,644.93 |
|
2008 |
10,032.41 |
NIL |
10,032.41 |
|
2009 |
3,407.83 |
400.00 |
3,807.83 |
Expenditure on travel comprises €7,569.94 on domestic travel and subsistence and €15,158.48 in respect of foreign travel and subsistence. Expenditure on entertainment includes the hosting of two official functions. I would like to reassure the Deputy that I am satisfied that the above expenditure is appropriate.
234 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the planning responsibilities of financial institutions to complete major developments that they have taken ownership of and taking into consideration developments that are partially occupied but are left in a dangerous condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27308/10]
Developers and owners of sites are required to ensure that their sites are left in a safe and secure condition. Local authorities are prioritising action to ensure that these obligations are discharged and that sites within their areas are properly secured from public access and, where necessary, are made structurally sound. In this regard, existing legislation such as the Derelict Sites Act 1990 and Litter Act 1997 — 2003, along with planning legislation, can be used to ensure developers and the owners of sites engage with local authorities in addressing specific difficulties. We will also keep the need for further legislative reforms to assist local authorities on this issue under review.
The interpretation of the planning responsibilities of financial institutions in relation to the completion of developments of which they have taken ownership is a matter for the financial institution concerned and the relevant planning authority and ultimately for the Courts to decide in relation to any case that may come before it. A range of actions are being progressed by my Department, with the co-operation of local authorities and other key stakeholders, to address the issue of unfinished or unoccupied estates. These actions include 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.
A best practice policy manual is also being prepared to identify the necessary responses to ensure satisfactory outcomes in tackling difficulties on specific sites in a coordinated 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.
235 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if family income supplement payments are liable to rent for local authority tenants; the reason improvement in FIS payments results in rent increases; the legislative power under which FIS payments are included; if this is standard practice among local authorities on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27353/10]
The making and amending of rent schemes is the responsibility of local authorities as an integral part of their housing management functions subject to broad principles laid down by my Department in Circular letter HRT 3/2002 of 6 March 2002. It is a matter for local authorities, when assessing individual households, to consider whether rents payable are in accordance with the authority's rent scheme. Therefore, decisions on whether or not to disregard either a proportion of income or particular sources of income for the purposes of calculating rents are matters for each individual local authority to consider in accordance with their own rent scheme. Notwithstanding this, in the context of new provisions provided for by the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009, I intend to make regulations later this year which will more clearly set out the matters that may be included in a local rents scheme.
236 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding an application for sale of bogland in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon; if the Chief State Solicitor’s office has concluded its work; and the date when this application will be fully processed and payment issued. [27422/10]
My Department and the Chief State Solicitor's Office have not yet concluded their work on this file. This is one of a number of applications under this scheme that relate to the raised bog Special Areas of Conservation on which the derogation allowing continued turf-cutting has now ended. Applications relating to these sites, including the application in question, are being prioritised for processing by my Department, which will be in further contact with the applicant as soon as possible.
237 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of his Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if he will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27506/10]
Expenses of €3,082.72 have been claimed by the Secretary General of my Department since January 2007. These are broken down as follows:
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
1,466.71 |
|
Domestic travel |
750.01 |
2008 — no expenses claimed.
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
644.45 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Domestic travel |
221.55 |
The expenses relate to flight costs, accommodation, foreign and domestic travel and subsistence claims, and the use of public transport.
238 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of his Department in each of the past three years, the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27521/10]
Expenses of €146,206.98 have been claimed by the Assistant Secretaries in my Department since 2007. The expenses, which relate to flight costs, accommodation, foreign and domestic travel and subsistence claims, and the use of public transport, are broken down as follows:
|
2007 |
|
|---|---|
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Domestic travel |
1,579.15 |
|
Entertainment |
537.85 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Domestic travel |
1,616.89 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
1,252.37 |
|
Domestic travel |
136.66 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Domestic travel |
45.00 |
|
2007 |
|
|---|---|
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
2,193.92 |
|
Domestic travel |
2,689.50 |
|
Entertainment |
317.09 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
99.60 |
|
Domestic travel |
970.69 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
862.80 |
|
Domestic travel |
525.05 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Domestic travel |
106.00 |
|
2007 |
|
|---|---|
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
2,031.62 |
|
Domestic travel |
1,942.02 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
3,801.54 |
|
Domestic travel |
1,061.05 |
|
Entertainment |
344.90 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Domestic travel |
646.62 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
881.92 |
|
Domestic travel |
309.97 |
|
Entertainment |
26.15 |
|
2007 |
|
|---|---|
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
20,104.25 |
|
Domestic travel |
806.14 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
13,710.51 |
|
Domestic travel |
868.95 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
13,512.13 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
16,333.52 |
|
Domestic travel |
55.61 |
|
2007 |
|
|---|---|
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Domestic travel |
1,513.76 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
1,027.16 |
|
Domestic travel |
3,653.23 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
1,326.73 |
|
Domestic travel |
786.24 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Domestic travel |
38.06 |
|
2007 |
|
|---|---|
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
1,277.19 |
|
Domestic travel |
199.32 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
1,151.21 |
|
Domestic travel |
1,097.74 |
|
2007 |
|
|---|---|
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
610.39 |
|
Domestic travel |
3,912.12 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
2,019.05 |
|
Domestic travel |
4,929.55 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
316.16 |
|
Domestic travel |
1,739.09 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
173.35 |
|
Domestic travel |
63.00 |
|
2007 |
|
|---|---|
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
4,913.01 |
|
Domestic travel |
4,993.85 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
2,234.56 |
|
Domestic travel |
5,903.48 |
|
Entertainment |
600.81 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
4,179.58 |
|
Domestic travel |
3,719.84 |
|
Expenses |
€ |
|
Foreign travel |
4,459.03 |
239 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if non-owner occupiers are precluded from applying for the home insulation grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27399/10]
The Home Energy Saving (HES) scheme provides grants to homeowners who wish to improve the energy efficiency of their home in order to reduce energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions. The scheme, which is administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is open to all owners of existing houses built before 2006. Assistance is provided by way of fixed grants towards the cost of implementing eligible upgrade measures, which are roof insulation, wall insulation, high efficiency boilers and heating control upgrades.
While it is a fundamental requirement that the applicant be the owner of the home, owners of multiple properties may also apply by submitting a separate application for each property. The SEAI also has in place specific arrangements for landlords and/or management companies of apartment blocks where they may be considering an entire building upgrade. This is designed to encourage whole of building solutions and also to facilitate collections of smaller accommodation units which may not individually qualify.
240 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of his Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if he will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27501/10]
I regret to advise the Deputy that it was not possible to compile the information requested in the time allotted. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.
241 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of his Department in each of the past three years, the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27516/10]
I regret to advise the Deputy that it was not possible to compile the information requested in the time allotted. I will write to the Deputy as soon as it is available.
242 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if there is a scheme or grant assistance available for a project (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27295/10]
Ringmoylan Pier, Pallaskenry, Co. Limerick is owned by Limerick County Council and responsibility for its repair and maintenance rests with that Local Authority in the first instance. Under the Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme my Department has, in previous years, provided funding for the development and repair of Local Authority owned harbours, piers and slipways. Unfortunately, due to the current budgetary situation, funding can not be provided for Local Authority owned facilities under the 2010 Programme. Funding under the 2010 programme has been allocated to meet contractual commitments and essential safety and maintenance works at the Department's six Fishery Harbour Centres.
243 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on negotiations being held at the European Council on the proposed legislation passed by the environment committee of the European Parliament seeking to stop the importation of illegally logged timber into the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27289/10]
I understand that the Deputy is referring to theProposal of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down the obligations of operators who place timber and timber products on the market. This proposal was originally presented to the Council in October 2008 and to the European Parliament in early 2009. A series of meetings involving the Council, the Parliament and the European Commission took place from April to June 2010 with a view to reaching a consensus on the text.
I am pleased to report that agreement on the final text of the proposal has now been reached between the three EU institutions. The Parliament's Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety considered the agreed text this week and the matter will now proceed to a vote in the Parliament in early July. Similarly I expect that the Council will now move to formally conclude its adoption procedures in early course.
244 Deputy Trevor Sargent asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the licence for a salmon farm (details supplied) in County Kerry and if the licence has been revoked or is active; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a company has apparently served notice that it intends to apply for permission to increase the output of the farm from 500 to 2,000 tons and is currently restocking the farm; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27314/10]
The aquaculture licence referred to by the Deputy has not been revoked. My Department received a request from the aquaculture operator to increase the number of smolts stocked on the site from 400,000 to 800,000. This request was refused on the basis that amending the licence conditions to take account of such a major change of use would undermine the licensing regime and therefore would not be in the public interest. Such a major increase in stocking capacity would have to be the subject of a new application, accompanied by the necessary Environmental Impact Statement. This information was conveyed to the aquaculture operator on 28th April 2010.
245 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, further to Parliamentary Question No. 73 of 10 June 2010, the reason the person referred to in the question was not favourably considered under the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27397/10]
Applications to the Scheme for the Allocation of Milk Quota to New Entrants, that satisfied the eligibility criteria as set out in the detailed rules of the Scheme, were submitted to an independent panel for a detailed assessment. This panel was established to select those applications they considered to provide evidence of a viable and sustainable enterprise. The panel was not convinced that this particular application met this criterion.
246 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of his Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if he will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27500/10]
The information requested for the years concerned is not readily available but will be collated and forwarded directly to the Deputy.
247 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of his Department in each of the past three years, the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27515/10]
The information requested for the years concerned is not readily available but will be collated and forwarded directly to the Deputy.
248 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if previously outstanding issues have been resolved and when a REPS 4 payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27543/10]
The REPS 4 payment belonging to the person named could not be processed because an issue had to be resolved that related to his Single Payment application. My officials hope to resolve this issue shortly and the REPS payment application will then be processed.
249 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if assistance is available to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who plans to undertake a masters course while in full-time employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27460/10]
263 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the options available in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who is in full-time employment but plans to undertake a masters course part-time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27474/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 249 and 263 together.
The Higher Education Grants Schemes operate under the Local Authorities (Higher Education Grants) Acts, 1968 to 1992. Under the Higher Education Grants Scheme an approved course is defined as a full-time undergraduate course of at least two years duration or a full-time postgraduate course of not less than one year duration pursued in an approved institution. An approved institution is defined to mean a university, university college or other institution of higher education in so far as it provides a course or courses of not less than two years duration, being a course, or courses, which the Minister for Education and Science approves for the time being for the purposes of the Acts.
There are no plans at present to extend the scope of the student support schemes to part-time courses. However, Section 473A, Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997 provides for tax relief, at the standard rate of tax, for tuition fees paid in respect of approved full/part-time courses in both private and publicly funded third level Colleges and Universities in the State and any other E.U. Member State. Further details and conditions in relation to this tax relief are available from a candidate's local tax offices or on Revenue's website at http://www.revenue.ie.
250 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will support a matter (details supplied). [27301/10]
The Deputy will be aware that the 2007/2012 Programme for Government commits to the long-term funding for the centres that are currently in the ABA pilot scheme subject to agreement with my Department on standards that will enable them to be supported as primary schools for children with autism.
I am pleased to advise that broad agreement has been reached on the core conditions to enable these centres to be recognised as special schools for children with autism and applications have been received for special school recognition from the centres in question. These schools, once recognised, will provide education for children with autism in line with my Department's policy. Detailed modalities relating to the transfer of staff are under consideration and it would be inappropriate for me to comment further in this regard.
251 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the catchment areas served by a school (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27303/10]
The school referred to by the Deputy serves the Bruff and Hospital catchment area in County Limerick. There is one other post-primary school serving this catchment area. These two post-primary schools serve 14 primary schools within the catchment area. I attach for the Deputy's information a list of the post-primary and primary schools within this catchment.
|
Post Primary Schools |
|
|---|---|
|
Roll No. |
School |
|
64020P |
Ardscoil Mhuire FCJ, Bruff |
|
91502N |
John the Baptist Community School, Hospital |
|
Roll No. |
School |
|
07117J |
S N LOCH GUIR |
|
10991B |
GARRYDOOLIS N S |
|
13459A |
S N GALLBHAILE |
|
14005M |
KILTEELY N S |
|
14305B |
BALLYLANDERS N S |
|
15700M |
CLOVERFIELD NS |
|
16059W |
EMLY N S |
|
17212J |
SCOIL NAIS |
|
17364J |
SCOIL BAILE AN AIRD |
|
18030I |
SCOIL AILBHE |
|
18142T |
SCOIL CNOC LOINGE B |
|
19421F |
KILROSS NS |
|
19952N |
HOSPITAL NS |
|
20133H |
SCOIL DEAN CUSSEN |
252 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will make additional moneys available to the board of management of a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny to allow it to provide disabled ramp access as required by Kilkenny County Council before it can proceed with its building project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27306/10]
My Department recently approved funding for the provision of 1 mainstream classroom at the school referred to by the Deputy. I understand that the School Authorities have informed officials in my Department's Building Unit and they will be submitting an application to have additional works carried out at the school. As soon as this application is received it will be considered and the school authorities informed of the outcome.
253 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application for an extension to a school (details supplied) in Dublin 16; if her attention has been drawn to the continuous addition of prefabs to accommodate the expanding school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27307/10]
257 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the reason for the delay in sanctioning the construction of an extension for a school (details supplied) in Dublin 16; if her attention has been drawn to the need for an extension to be constructed in view of the increasing numbers of students; if her further attention has been drawn to the possibility of the recurrence of subsidence in the main school building which may necessitate classes being moved from the main school building; and if she will prioritise the construction of the extension in view of the urgent need. [27400/10]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 253 and 257 together.
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers has made an application to my Department for large scale capital funding. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a band 2 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 ww.education.ie.
The priority attaching to individual projects is determined by published prioritisation criteria, which were formulated following consultation with the Education Partners. There are four band ratings under these criteria, each of which describes the extent of accommodation required and the urgency attaching to it. Band 1 is the highest priority rating and Band 4 is the lowest. Documents explaining the band rating system are also available on my Department's website.
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. My Department has no record of receiving correspondence from the school concerning subsidence in the main school building. On receipt of such information my Department will consider the school's needs.
254 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will recognise the postgraduate diploma in education of a college (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27310/10]
As the Deputy may be aware, the recognition of qualifications for teacher registration is now a matter for the Teaching Council, the body with statutory responsibility for establishing and maintaining standards in the teaching profession in the State. Any enquiry regarding the recognition of a particular qualification should, therefore, be made directly to the Teaching Council.
255 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27313/10]
The question of enrolment in individual schools is the responsibility of the managerial authority of those schools and my Department does not seek to intervene in decisions made by schools in such matters. My Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking places. This may result, however, in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.
It is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of schools to implement an enrolment policy in accordance with the Education Act, 1998. In this regard a Board of Management may find it necessary to restrict enrolment to children from a particular area or a particular age group or, occasionally, on the basis of some other criterion. This selection process and the enrolment policy on which it is based must be non-discriminatory and must be applied fairly in respect of all applicants. The Deputy may be aware that a Common Application System (CAS) was agreed between the principals of the post-primary schools in Limerick City. This system has been facilitated through the Limerick Education Centre (LEC) with support from my Department. This administrative system ensures that a coordinated approach can be taken to enrolments in the area.
Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, provides parents with an appeal process where a Board of Management of a school or a person acting on behalf of the Board refuses enrolment to a student. Where a school refuses to enrol a pupil, the school is obliged to inform parents of their right under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998 to appeal that decision to either the relevant Vocational Educational Committee or to the Secretary General of my Department. An appeal under Section 29, for the person mentioned in the question, has been taken to my Department, however, the appeal was not upheld.
The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is the statutory agency which can assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child. The Board can be contacted at National Educational Welfare Board, National Headquarters, 16-22 Green Street, Dublin 7 or by telephone at 01-8738700.
256 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the provision of a special class for pupils with autism spectrum disorder at a school (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27372/10]
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 approving special classes for autism and 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.
258 Deputy Noel Ahern asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will report on a dispute between her Department, a school and a contractor (details supplied); the reason there is an 18 month delay in paying this small contractor; the amount that was approved for the project; has the full amount been drawn down and if she will have the matter resolved to the satisfaction of all as soon as possible. [27404/10]
As part of the expansion of the Permanent Accommodation Scheme 2007, a grant was allocated to the school in question to enable the management authority provide 3 additional mainstream classrooms. I understand that some difficulties arose between the school and the design team/contractor, however, as this is a devolved project it is a matter for the school authority.
259 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding special needs assistants and other staff at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27406/10]
The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is an independent agency with responsibility for determining the appropriate staffing levels in relation to the support of pupils with special educational needs in mainstream and special schools. The NCSE operates within my Department's policy in allocating this 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
260 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will reconsider her decision to cut the funding to a project (details supplied) in Dublin 11 in view of the success of this programme to date in improving school performance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27424/10]
My Department has provided funds for over thirty projects in Local Drugs Task Force areas, including the project specifically referred to by the Deputy. In the context of the budget for 2010 it was decided that funding for these projects was to be reduced from €3,643,000 in 2009 to €2,461,000 in 2010. Projects within the Dublin City area are administered by the City of Dublin Youth Services Board under the aegis of City of Dublin VEC. Within the overall allocation for the projects in Dublin City, the Board prioritised those projects where frontline staff were employed. In that context, no allocations were made to a small number of projects, including the project referred to by the Deputy.
I would point out that since 1990 my Department has funded an Initiative for Third Level Education in the same locality as the project in question. The interventions under this initiative, both financial and cultural, aim to increase educational aspirations not only in the schools but also in the wider community and to increase the participation rate of pupils from the area in third level education. My Department also provides significant levels of funding for the area in question through the School Completion Programme.
261 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the nature and duration of the contracts which will be offered to the librarians working in the demonstration libraries project. [27425/10]
As the Deputy may be aware, 30 schools are currently included in the JCSP Demonstration Library project. I am pleased to say that the Librarians in those schools who are currently employed under the terms of Fixed Term Contracts will be retained for a further year.
262 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the discussions which have taken place between her Department and the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation regarding the teacher supply panel and the progress made in retaining this service. [27426/10]
There has been ongoing engagement and discussion with the relevant education partners, including the INTO, involving my Department concerning general education matters and specific budgetary matters.In relation to the supply teacher scheme a decision was taken in Budget 2010 to cease this scheme from the start of the 2010/11 school year. It is expected that this measure will save €0.4m in 2010 and €1.1m in a full year. The Deputy will be aware of the need to continue to achieve savings on the public finances so the scope is not there to retain the scheme. The teachers concerned will be redeployed in accordance with the existing redeployment arrangements to other schools that have vacancies.
While the supply teacher scheme had benefits for schools 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.
264 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application for higher education grant appeal in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 3; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27475/10]
An appeal has been received by my Department from the person referred to by the Deputy. The appeal is currently under consideration and a response will issue to the candidate as soon as the review process is completed.
265 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when a school place will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27476/10]
The question of enrolment in individual schools is the responsibility of the managerial authority of those schools. My Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking places. This may result, however, in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.
It is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of schools to implement an enrolment policy in accordance with the Education Act, 1998. In this regard a Board of Management may find it necessary to restrict enrolment to children from a particular area or a particular age group or, occasionally, on the basis of some other criterion. This selection process and the enrolment policy on which it is based must be non-discriminatory and must be applied fairly in respect of all applicants.
Under section 15(2)(d) of the Education Act 1998, each school is legally obliged to disclose its enrolment policy and to ensure that as regards that policy that principles of equality and the rights of parents to send their children to a school of the parents choice are respected. Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, provides parents with an appeal process where a Board of Management of a school or a person acting on behalf of the Board refuses enrolment to a student. Where a school refuses to enrol a pupil, the school is obliged to inform parents of their right under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998 to appeal that decision to either the relevant Vocational Educational Committee or to the Secretary General of my Department.
My Department has received an appeal against the decision of the school to refuse enrolment to this child and the Appeals Committee is scheduled to consider this appeal on Tuesday 29th June 2010. The Secretary General of my Department will subsequently issue the appeal committee's determination to the parents of this child. The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is the statutory agency which can assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child. The NEWB advises parents to apply to more than one school in order to assist in securing a school placement. The Board can be contacted at National Educational Welfare Board, National Headquarters, 16-22 Green Street, Dublin 7 or by telephone at 01-8738700.
266 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the total expenses claimed by the Secretary General of her Department in each of the past three years; the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by them in each of the past three years; if she will provide a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27504/10]
The information requested by the Deputy is contained on the attached Table. The deputy might like to note that my Department is based in three main locations (Dublin, Tullamore and Athlone), in addition to a number of regional and local offices, which necessitates official travel between the various locations.
|
Expense Claimed |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
2010 |
Total |
|
Domestic Travel & Subsistence |
2,830.42 |
640.20 |
747.64 |
— |
4,218.26 |
|
Foreign Travel & Subsistence |
5,590.68 |
5,365.85 |
1,044.43 |
— |
12,000.96 |
|
Entertainment & Miscellaneous Expenses |
191.95 |
— |
— |
— |
191.95 |
|
Total |
8,613.05 |
6,006.05 |
1,792.07 |
— |
16,411.17 |
267 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the total expenses claimed by the assistant secretaries of her Department in each of the past three years, the amount that has been spent on travel, including foreign travel, and entertainment by each in each of the past three years; a detailed breakdown of these costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27519/10]
The information requested by the Deputy is contained on the attached Table. The deputy might like to note that my Department is based in three main locations (Dublin, Tullamore and Athlone), in addition to a number of regional and local offices, which necessitates official travel between the various locations.
|
Asst. Secretary |
Expense Claimed |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
2010 |
Total |
|
Asst. Secretary — Special Education |
Domestic Travel & Subsistence |
2,786.92 |
3,889.74 |
3,855.62 |
503.65 |
11,035.93 |
|
Foreign Travel & Subsistence |
1,971.85 |
— |
— |
— |
1,971.85 |
|
|
Entertainment & Miscellaneous Expenses |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
|
|
Overall Total |
4,758.77 |
3,889.74 |
3,855.62 |
503.65 |
13,007.78 |
|
|
Asst. Secretary — Industrial Relations |
Domestic Travel & Subsistence |
2,856.09 |
3,234.46 |
2,354.87 |
— |
8,445.42 |
|
Foreign Travel & Subsistence |
745.10 |
— |
— |
— |
745.10 |
|
|
Entertainment & Miscellaneous Expenses |
— |
— |
292.60 |
40.00 |
332.60 |
|
|
Overall Total |
3,601.19 |
3,234.46 |
2,647.47 |
40.00 |
9,523.12 |
|
|
Asst. Secretary — Social Inclusion |
Domestic Travel & Subsistence |
1,213.07 |
— |
— |
— |
1,213.07 |
|
Foreign Travel & Subsistence |
455.85 |
1,519.99 |
— |
— |
1,975.84 |
|
|
Entertainment & Miscellaneous Expenses |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
|
|
Overall Total |
1,668.92 |
1,519.99 |
— |
— |
3,188.91 |
|
|
Asst. Secretary — Primary & Post |
Domestic Travel & Subsistence |
5,307.24 |
5,097.93 |
3,096.54 |
1,035.91 |
14,537.62 |
|
Primary Schools |
Foreign Travel & Subsistence |
605.75 |
— |
— |
— |
605.75 |
|
Entertainment & Miscellaneous Expenses |
121.95 |
— |
— |
— |
121.95 |
|
|
Overall Total |
6,034.94 |
5,097.93 |
3,096.54 |
1,035.91 |
15,265.32 |
|
|
Asst. Secretary — Further Education |
Domestic Travel & Subsistence |
— |
59.58 |
— |
— |
59.58 |
|
Foreign Travel & Subsistence |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
|
|
Entertainment & Miscellaneous Expenses |
26.90 |
— |
251.84 |
— |
278.74 |
|
|
Overall Total |
26.90 |
59.58 |
251.84 |
— |
338.32 |
|
|
Asst. Secretary** — School Building |
Domestic Travel & Subsistence |
5,131.42 |
6,246.35 |
6,730.32 |
2,775.98 |
20,884.07 |
|
Foreign Travel & Subsistence |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
|
|
Entertainment & Miscellaneous Expenses |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
|
|
Overall Total |
5,131.42 |
6,246.35 |
6,730.32 |
2,775.98 |
20,884.07 |
|
|
Asst. Secretary — Higher Education |
Domestic Travel & Subsistence |
770.63 |
1,104.68 |
1,133.59 |
— |
3,008.90 |
|
Foreign Travel & Subsistence |
— |
10,424.11 |
— |
10,424.11 |
||
|
Entertainment & Miscellaneous Expenses |
46.40 |
— |
— |
— |
46.40 |
|
|
Overall Total |
817.03 |
11,528.79 |
1,133.59 |
— |
13,479.41 |
|
|
Asst. Secretary — School Building / |
Domestic Travel & Subsistence |
— |
668.11 |
996.19 |
437.21 |
2,101.51 |
|
School Transport |
Foreign Travel & Subsistence |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
|
Entertainment & Miscellaneous Expenses |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
|
|
Overall Total |
— |
668.11 |
996.19 |
437.21 |
2,101.51 |
|
|
Grand Total |
22,039.17 |
32,244.95 |
18,711.57 |
4,792.75 |
77,788.44 |
*Please Note: Assistant Secretary descriptions of responsibilites are summary rather than an exhaustive list*.
**Retired 2010.
268 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she has received the supplementary report for a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if a contractor has been chosen and if so when will construction commence. [27536/10]
My Department recently received the Supplementary Tender Report for the school to which the Deputy refers. However, my Department is still awaiting receipt of some outstanding documentation from the preferred bidder. When this documentation has been received and assuming that there are no issues arising, the contract can be awarded and the project will progress to construction.
269 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if tenders have been invited for the building of a 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. [27537/10]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the project to which he refers is currently out to tender. The closing date for receipt of tenders is 2nd July. Once the project goes on site, the expected duration of the construction phase is 12 months.
270 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if the contract for the building of the extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare has been awarded; and when will construction commence. [27538/10]
My Department recently received the Supplementary Tender Report for the school to which the Deputy refers. However, my Department is still awaiting receipt of some outstanding documentation from the preferred bidder. When this documentation has been received and assuming that there are no issues arising, the contract can be awarded and the project will progress to construction.
271 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the reason special needs assistant support has not been granted in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if she will expedite a response; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27551/10]
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.
