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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 19 Oct 2010

Vol. 719 No. 1

Written Answers.

The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 16, inclusive, answered orally.
Questions Nos. 17 to 60, inclusive, resubmitted.
Questions Nos. 61 to 67, inclusive, answered orally.

Dublin Docklands Development Authority

Tom Hayes

Question:

68 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the fact that the Dublin Docklands Development Authority has not paid interest on loans connected to its interest in a company (details supplied); if he has satisfied himself that the Dublin Docklands Development Authority has a sustainable financial position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37500/10]

All interest accruing on the Becbay loans for which the Dublin Docklands Development Authority was liable was fully paid up to the end of 2008. According to the Authority's 2009 Annual Report and Accounts, the Authority's liability arising from its participation in the Becbay joint venture company at the end of 2009 comprised a principal guarantee of €29.1 million on its 26% share of the loans and €4.8m interest accrued on its share of the loans for 2009, leaving a total liability of some €34 million. Interest continues to accrue at a rate of some €4.8m per annum until such time as the loan is discharged. The Becbay loans have now transferred to the National Assets Management Agency and I understand that NAMA is considering detailed business plans submitted by all Becbay parties in relation to resolution of its outstanding debts.

In relation to the Authority's financial position, while the Authority posted an operating deficit for 2009, it has taken a broad range of measures to re-examine and prioritise all expenditure within the organisation. For example, staffing in the Authority has been reduced from 55 in January 2009 to 27 currently, which has led to a significant reduction in the payroll bill. Moreover, the number of social regeneration projects has been reduced and the Authority is focusing on managing existing programmes and projects to maintain momentum and progress made in these areas.

As with many other companies with significant property portfolios, the future operating performance of the Authority will be affected by the broader economic, financial and business conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Authority. The Authority is in ongoing discussion with my Department and the Department of Finance in relation to plans to restore its finances to a more robust position.

Question No. 69 answered with Question No. 67.

Social and Affordable Housing

Róisín Shortall

Question:

70 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the total number of persons listed as having applied for social housing and if he will provide this information on a local authority basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37442/10]

It is open to any person or household to apply to a housing authority for an assessment of their housing need. The application process is the gateway to a broad range of social housing supports provided by housing authorities. The number of households that apply for social housing support from housing authorities continuously fluctuates as new households apply for housing support.

Under existing legislation, households can apply to multiple authorities which can result, therefore, in an application from the same household being processed by several authorities. In addition, households that have been in receipt of rent supplement for longer than 18 months do not always apply to the housing authority in order to receive social housing accommodation. My Department does not hold real time information on the number of persons or households that apply to housing authorities. The last statutory needs assessment in 2008 indicated that there were 56,249 households in need of social housing support.

The social housing reform programme, which was given legislative effect by the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009, provides for a new process of housing needs assessment. Regulations will be made shortly to give detailed effect to the provisions of the Act. In an effort to standardise and bring about greater efficiency in the assessment process, the regulations will provide for a single application (that is a person or household may only apply once to one housing authority) in order to access social housing support. The regulations will also require that those in receipt of rent supplement for longer than 18 months will have to undergo the housing needs assessment process in order to be eligible for social housing support.

All of these changes to the current assessment system are being designed with a view to being able to carry out a statutory assessment in 2011 which will give a clearer picture of both the demand and need for social housing support.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

71 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of social housing units held by local authorities that have been vacant for a period of three months and more; his plans to put in place a strategy to deal with this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37438/10]

Information in relation to vacant local authority houses is a Local Authority Service Indicator and reports on these indicators are available on the Local Government Management Agency's website. The latest available figures relate to 2008 and report a significant decrease in the level of local authority housing stock that is vacant. The 2008 report shows that a total of 3,859 dwellings were empty, excluding those that were subject to major refurbishment programmes. This represents 3.2% of the total stock of 122,446 dwellings. The 2007 report showed that some 5,090 units were vacant out of a total stock of 118,276. Therefore there has been a decrease of 1,231 vacant units on the 2007 total — a 24% improvement.

I would point out that the management and maintenance of local authority housing stock is a matter for individual authorities under section 58 of the Housing Act 1966 and my Department has no direct responsibility for this issue. To assist local authorities in determining measures for further improvement in their housing stock, the Local Government Audit Service is finalising a Value for Money study on housing management and maintenance, which will include specific recommendations on how best practice can be achieved in relation to vacant stock.

In addition, my Department has provided a fund of €40 million under the Social Housing Investment Programme in 2010, to co-fund the retrofitting of vacant properties, both casual and planned, across local authority housing stock. Having regard to the rapid decline in local authority Internal Capital Receipts, amendments to the terms of the scheme in 2010 have included the reduction of the co-funding contribution required from within authorities own resources and a recent provision to allow local authorities to claim for higher costs in respect of works undertaken to longer term voids, to support authorities efforts to bring such stock back into viable use to meet housing needs. These retrofitting provisions will continue to have a positive impact on the ability of local authorities to deal with vacant stock.

Severe Weather Events

Dinny McGinley

Question:

72 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the preparatory action he has taken or the instructions he has given to local authorities in the event of an extreme weather occurrence this winter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37511/10]

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

117 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps that have been taken to deal with adverse weather conditions, such those which occurred during the winter of 2009/2010, to ensure that the country is better equipped to deal with such crises; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37352/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 72 and 117 together.

The role of my Department during a severe weather event is to ensure that the local authorities are prepared to respond promptly to ameliorate the worst effects in relation to those aspects of an emergency for which they have direct responsibility, and that they act in co-operation with the other principal response agencies — An Garda Síochána and the Health Service Executive — using the Major Emergency Management Framework as appropriate, and with the voluntary agencies and the Defence Forces to limit the effects on individuals whose lives may be put at risk or who may be exposed to serious hardship. When effective emergency plans are in place, the management of the emergency response then falls to the local authorities and the other response agencies.

Under the Framework, the local and/or regional coordination centres may be activated to manage the response to a severe weather event, whether a major emergency is declared or not.

My Department has overseen a development programme involving local authorities and the other principal response agencies to enable them to use the Framework structures effectively to manage the response to emergencies. During the two severe weather events of last winter the coordination and inter-agency arrangements set out in the Framework were implemented at local and regional level, as required by local circumstances.

The National Steering Group on the Framework for Emergency Management, which is chaired by my Department, undertook a review of the operation of the major emergency planning procedures and sought the views of participants in the response on matters which could be improved for future such events. It established that the arrangements set out in the Framework were fit for purpose and operated satisfactorily where used by local authorities (with their partner agencies) to manage the impact of both the flood and severe cold emergencies. However, some suggested changes and further development of operational matters are being implemented in association with the Framework's regional structures.

It has been widely recognised that the local authorities and the other agencies discharged their responsibilities in a commendable way and I have every confidence that they will continue to respond to such events in a like manner.

EU Directives

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

73 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide an update on the steps taken to transpose the EU directive on public participation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37421/10]

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

108 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide an update on the steps taken to ratify the Aarhus Convention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37420/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 73 and 108 together.

Ireland signed the Aarhus Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-Making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters on 25 June 1998. Progress towards ratification of the Convention is closely aligned with work at EU level and, in that context, the European Union has adopted two Directives as part of the ratification process for the Convention. These Directives deal with public access to environmental information and public participation in certain environmental decision-making procedures.

The European Communities (Access to Information on the Environment) Regulations 2007 came into effect on 1 May 2007. These Regulations transpose the Directive on public access to environmental information.

Several new pieces of legislation have been necessary to transpose the Public Participation Directive and these have been completed over a number of years. The judgment of the European Court of Justice against Ireland in case C427/07, concerning non-notification of the Public Participation Directive, also necessitated additional legislative amendments, which have now been finalised and signed into law. These include:

Section 33 of the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010;

the European Communities (Public Participation) Regulations 2010;

the Environmental Protection Agency (Amendment) Regulations 2010;

the Waste Management (Licensing) (Amendment) Regulations 2010; and

the Aquaculture (Licence Application) (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations 2010.

The provision in the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 addresses the ruling of the ECJ in respect of the requirement that access to justice must not be prohibitively expensive. The four sets of Regulations impose a statutory obligation on the relevant public bodies to ensure that when decisions on consent systems subject to the Public Participation Directive, such as decisions on IPPC licences and certain planning matters, are taken, practical information on how such decisions may be appealed is made available to the public.

These measures have been formally notified to the European Commission. Pending any further communication from the Commission, no additional transposition measures are foreseen as necessary to give effect to the Public Participation Directive at this time.

The effect of the measures undertaken to transpose the two Directives is that Ireland is largely compliant with the provisions of the Convention; although there are some outstanding issues to resolve in the context of the access to justice pillar. Ratification of the Convention is a matter of the highest priority and my Department is working closely with the Office of the Attorney General in order to finalise this process.

Social and Affordable Housing

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

74 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 43 of 22 April 2010, the manner in which capital costs are repaid; the payment that is made by the approved housing body to the local authority in respect of the leased property; the proportion of the funds allocated to leasing in 2009 and to date in 2010 that has been drawn down; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37427/10]

Under the leasing initiative housing authorities can lease vacant and unsold affordable units to approved housing bodies where they feel that these units cannot be sold in the current market conditions. During the lease period my Department recoups to the authority the interest payments liable in respect of the loans taken by the authority to fund the affordable property in the first instance. My Department does not fund the repayment of the principal of the loan (i.e. the capital cost).

Lease agreements in respect of unsold affordable units must not exceed 5 years. At the end of the lease agreement the authority must review the arrangement and make a determination about its future use. The authority then has a number of courses available to it, including sale on the open market, or to those eligible for affordable housing or incremental purchase or taking the units into social stock. It is hoped that many of these properties would be viable for sale at this point and therefore the capital monies can be repaid from the proceeds of the sale.

It is a matter for the relevant local authority, where it has engaged an approved housing body in the process of letting unsold affordable housing units, to negotiate payment terms directly with the approved housing body concerned. However, in most lease agreements the approved housing body pays the local authority a nominal fee and the body collects and retains the differential rent from the tenant to support their costs in managing and maintaining the dwelling.

In 2009, €20 million was made available for use under the Social Housing Leasing Initiative (SHLI). By the end of December 2009 just over €642,178 had been recouped. In 2010 a further €25 million was made available for the leasing initiative of which, €2,365,158 had been drawn down by the end of September 2010. However, my Department would anticipate that activity and expenditure patterns under the leasing initiative will increase over the final quarter to compensate somewhat for the slower than expected progress during the year to date.

Departmental Expenditure

Catherine Byrne

Question:

75 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on each of the recommendations made in the report of the special group on public service numbers and expenditure programmes that relate to his Department and agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37462/10]

The Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes was published in July 2009 and, since then, its recommendations have provided an important input to Government and Ministerial consideration of options for expenditure reduction. As far as my own Department is concerned, expenditure provisions for 2010 are set out in the Revised Estimates for Public Services 2010 published by the Minister for Finance. These amount to €2.195 billion, compared to an outturn of €2.674 billion in 2009. They were determined in the context of the overall provision for public services, reflect the need to reduce public spending and, as indicated by the Minister for Finance in his Financial Statement on 9 December 2009, were guided by the Report.

My Department, local authorities and related agencies are working to maximise outputs from the 2010 provisions through prioritisation, increased efficiency and lower procurement costs generally. Recommendations in the Report relating to my Department are reflected, inter alia , in savings in administrative costs arising from reductions in public service numbers and pay; the reduced Exchequer contribution to the Local Government Fund (€226 million in 2010, in the context of wider developments relating to local government finance); the review of the EPA which is underway; the ongoing rationalisation of agencies in the housing area; and more extensive use of leasing to ensure overall housing output is maintained at the highest level possible. The Report will continue to be taken into account in the development of policy and the management of programmes by my Department. Consistent with the approach of the Special Group, the Report of the Local Government Efficiency Review Group , published in mid-July, includes recommendations for efficiency and other savings in the local government sector. These will be considered by Government in the appropriate policy and financial contexts. I propose to establish an implementation group with an independent chairperson to oversee implementation of relevant recommendations.

Social and Affordable Housing

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

76 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of persons to date, who have made a full application under the home choice scheme; the number of new build and the number of second hand houses now occupied as a result of the scheme; the cost to date of administering the scheme and if it is intended to continue with the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37433/10]

As of now, 111 full applications have been received under the Home Choice Loan scheme.

Of these, 17 have been approved, with 4 of these now drawn down. Of the 17 approved applications, 11 were for second hand properties and 4 for new build properties. The remaining two applications have been approved in principle. All 4 of the loans drawn down relate to new build properties.

The total cost to date of administering the scheme is approximately €290,000. These costs include the setting up of the central processing unit (CPU) within the Affordable Homes Partnership (AHP). These costs were met fully from within existing resources within the AHP. It should also be noted that a significant element of the staffing costs was incurred in the development of the loan processing model which applies to the Home Choice Loan but which has also now been used in the development of revised systems for processing and credit checking of standard local authority house purchase loan applications under other schemes such as tenant purchase, affordable housing, shared ownership etc.

The scheme is intended to be a temporary one which will be withdrawn once conditions in credit markets return to normal patterns.

Planning Issues

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

77 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide an update on the planning review of six local authorities and the expert panel that was to carry out this review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37422/10]

My Department published a request for tenders on www.etenders.gov.ie on 24 September 2010 with a view to establishing a panel of independent experts to assist as necessary in the review of planning legislation, policy and guidance within the development plan and development management systems at local level. Issues raised with my Department across a number of planning authorities, and the authorities' responses to these issues, will be used as an input to the review.

The closing date for receipt of tenders is Friday, 22 October 2010. Following evaluation of the tender submissions received, I intend to appoint the panel of experts as quickly as possible and will seek to complete the review before the end of the year.

Electoral Commission

Michael Noonan

Question:

78 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding his commitment to set up an electoral commission to safeguard our electoral integrity and provide an independent well structured and adequately staffed office to oversee electoral function in a fully transparent manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37520/10]

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

87 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will outline the progress which has been made in 2010 to establish an independent electoral commission here and to provide a timeframe for when it will be operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37351/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 78 and 87 together.

The Programme for Government, agreed in 2007, contains a commitment to the establishment of an independent Electoral Commission. The renewed Programme for Government, agreed in October 2009, reaffirms this commitment and identifies a range of responsibilities which the Commission will be mandated to fulfil.

An independent Electoral Commission will require new legislation for purposes of its establishment and to transfer to it a range of roles and responsibilities including those assigned to the Standards in Public Office Commission in electoral law, the roles and responsibilities of the Constituency Commission and roles and responsibilities currently assigned to me as Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. This will involve changes to over 20 primary acts and to the associated regulations.

Towards implementing the Programme for Government commitments, and to assist in consideration of the issues involved, I commissioned a report by an expert group from University College Dublin. I published the report, entitled A Preliminary Study on the Establishment of an Electoral Commission in Ireland, for consultation in February 2009. The UCD study recommends that an Electoral Commission should be established through the enactment of an Electoral Commission Act, which would amend and consolidate the law relating to referendums and elections to local authorities, Údarás na Gaeltachta, the European Parliament, Dáil Éireann, Seanad Éireann and the office of President of Ireland. This is a major task and it is part of our considerations.

Many of the electoral reform issues that will come within the remit of an Electoral Commission were considered by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution, which published its report on the electoral system in July 2010. This report, which indicates the Committee's strong support for the establishment of an independent Electoral Commission, is a valuable input and is being taken into account in progressing work in this area.

I am currently giving consideration to the approaches that are to be taken to implement the Programme for Government commitment to establish an independent Electoral Commission.

Waste Management

Andrew Doyle

Question:

79 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department has incurred any expense to date in the remediation of Haulbowline Island; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37483/10]

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

81 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the remediation actions he has taken since chromium 6 was discovered on Haulbowline Island in County Cork; the position regarding remediation efforts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37480/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 79 and 81 together.

From 2004 to 2009 my Department had an interim role in the management of this legacy site in a manner which is consistent with good practice and minimisation of risk to human health and the environment. Accordingly, my Department arranged for the decontamination and demolition of the buildings on site and, post-demolition, arranged for the procurement of a contractor for site surface clearance, back filling of voids and the disposal of the remaining surface wastes to be undertaken.

Examples of waste types removed include:

over 10,000 tonnes of scrap metal;

over 1,100 tonnes of hazardous dust vacuumed from the steelworks buildings before demolition;

hazardous soils and sludge;

millscale.

To date the State has expended some €50 million on investigations, site works, disposal of waste material, testing and sampling, analysis, topographical and foreshore ecological surveys, project management, professional fees and security.

In June 2009, the Government decided that the Office of Public Works would chair a working group to develop a structured and coherent approach to the further management and development of the former Irish Ispat site, and to advise on the site's most beneficial future use. Consideration of the regulatory requirements relevant to the site falls within the Terms of Reference of the OPW — led Working Group. The future use of the site will in itself influence the levels and extent of further works and/or remediation required.

Water Services

Paul Kehoe

Question:

80 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans for a national water metering campaign; if a flat water charge will be introduced before a metering programme is complete; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37503/10]

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

102 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the discussions between his Department and the Department of Finance regarding the implementation of water charges; his views regarding water charges; his further views regarding the fairest and most efficient method of collecting such charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37555/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 80 and 102 together.

My Department is finalising proposals to give effect to the commitment in the renewed Programme for Government to introduce charges for water services in a way that is fair, significantly reduces waste and is easily applied. The proposals include the approach to be taken to the installation of water meters in households connected to public water supplies and to the development of a pricing structure for domestic water services, they will also address the arrangements for the collection of water charges. I will provide further details on these matters following their final approval by Government. My Department has been in regular contact with the Department of Finance, and with other Government Departments, during the development of these proposals.

The installation of water meters in households connected to public supplies will encourage householders to conserve water and will result in savings in the significant operational costs faced by local authorities in providing water and waste water services. It will also complement the significant increases in investment on water conservation measures in the Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012 which I announced earlier this year.

Question No. 81 answered with Question No. 79.

Electronic Voting Machines

Willie Penrose

Question:

82 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the interdepartmental task force on the disposal of the redundant electronic voting equipment will issue its final report, including a timeframe for the ending of outstanding leases and the disposal of the equipment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37435/10]

Following the Government decision not to proceed with implementation of electronic voting in Ireland, an Interdepartmental Task Force, chaired by my Department, was established to bring the project to an orderly conclusion and to oversee disposal of the equipment and termination of storage arrangements. To date, the Task Force has met five times, with its most recent meeting taking place in June 2010. Between meetings, my Department maintains ongoing contact with members of the Task Force, in order to progress work on the cessation arrangements for the project. The Task Force aims to complete its work as soon as possible.

In considering options for disposal of the equipment, the priority is to pursue the most economically advantageous approach, with a view to achieving the maximum recovery of cost possible in the circumstances, consistent with environmental and other obligations.

In 2007, over 60% of the machines (4,762 in total) were moved from 12 local storage locations to a central facility at Gormanston Army Camp. There are no ongoing rental costs in respect of the use of this property. The remaining machines are stored at 13 local premises that were originally identified by Returning Officers for this purpose. It is intended that all machines will be removed from their present locations when arrangements for disposal are implemented. Work on termination of local lease arrangements is proceeding in this context.

Turbary Rights

Denis Naughten

Question:

83 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has completed a financial assessment of the cost of banning turf cutting on all designated bogs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37174/10]

Denis Naughten

Question:

110 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has completed a financial assessment of the cost of banning turf cutting on all designated bogs under relevant legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37175/10]

Denis Naughten

Question:

459 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the financial provision made for the payment of compensation under Chapter IV of Statutory Instrument 94/1997 following his announcement of 28 May 2010 on the EU habitats directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37741/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 83, 110 and 459 together.

In May 2010, the Government confirmed the end of the 10 year derogation allowing a continuation of turf-cutting on raised bogs designated as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs). The Government also established an Interim Compensation Scheme to compensate those who have been cutting turf on the 31 raised bogs sites designated in or before 1999. Some 233 valid applications were received for the €1,000 interim payment. To date, 105 of these have been paid and the remainder are being assessed to confirm whether the individuals qualify. The expenditure will not exceed €233,000 this year.

The bogs affected by the end of the derogation are limited to raised bogs designated for protection as SACs or NHAs. In area, these make up just over 4% of bogland in the State where turf-extraction is feasible. Blanket bogs, which are far bigger in area and occur in uplands and along the western seaboard, are not affected by these measures.

The Inter-Departmental Working Group that I established to examine the modalities of the cessation of turf cutting in designated raised bogs reported on financial implications of various options. Full details of this analysis were published in the Working Group's report of May 2010. I understand the Deputy has a copy of this report and analysis.

I am currently considering the long-term financial commitment required successfully to ensure the protection of all 130 designated raised bog sites and I intend to bring further proposals to Government in this regard.

Local Government Fund

Leo Varadkar

Question:

84 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the expected reduction in the local government fund for 2011; if guidance has been issued to local authorities as they prepare their budgets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37496/10]

The 2011 Local Government Fund will be financed from the full proceeds of motor tax income in 2011 and an annual contribution from the Exchequer. The Exchequer contribution to the Fund will be announced in the context of Budget 2011.

I will continue to contribute to the general purpose funding of local authorities to the best extent possible, having regard to the current pressures on the public finances and motor tax income. Local authorities will also continue to have access to an additional source of funding through the charge on non-principal private residences.

My Department has not issued any formal guidance to local authorities on the preparation of their budgets. The adoption of a budget is a reserved function of the local elected members and is a matter in which I have no function. However, my Department maintains regular liaision with local authorities having regard to their own particular financial situation and the need to frame budgets in this context.

Proposed Legislation

Joan Burton

Question:

85 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide an update on promised legislation to enhance the protection of national monuments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37417/10]

The general scheme of a Monuments Bill was approved by Government in April 2010, and work towards preparation of the Bill is underway in the Office of the Attorney General. The Bill will provide a consolidated, updated and expanded legislative code to replace the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2004 and a number of related enactments. It will include measures to streamline and improve procedures for the recording and protection of monuments and the regulation of archaeological activity. It will also seek to address anomalies in the existing code and it will introduce a number of new provisions including measures for the identification and conservation of historic landscapes.

Local Government Efficiency Review Group

Seán Barrett

Question:

86 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the recommendations of the local government efficiency review group which will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37452/10]

The Report of the independent Local Government Efficiency Review Group, published in mid July, includes 106 recommendations for efficiency and other savings of €511m for the local government sector to be attained in the short, medium and long terms. These savings are comprised of €346m in efficiencies and €165m in improved cost recovery and revenue raising. The Report's findings and recommendations will be considered by me and by Government in the appropriate policy and financial contexts.

As recommended in the Report, I propose to establish an implementation group with an independent chairperson to oversee implementation of relevant recommendations.

Question No. 87 answered with Question No. 78.

Emergency Planning

David Stanton

Question:

88 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 202 of 27 May 2010 and No. 10 of 8 July 2010, the details of the membership or employees name, position held, location, staffing grade and so on of each office, committee or group respectively (details supplied); when each committee, office or group was established; if it is still in operation; the terms of reference, functions and remit of same; the total cost to the State per annum, in any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37535/10]

The Consultative Committee of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management was established on 22 June, 2009 and is still in operation. The Consultative Committee provides a forum for representation and consultation with fire service stakeholder interests. The membership of the Consultative Committee is intended to reflect the three core business areas of the National Directorate — Emergency Management, Fire Service Operations and Fire Safety. The Consultative Committee also provides for staffing interest representation. The costs which have arisen in relation to the Consultative Committee were €710.08 in 2009 and €7,674.32 to-date in 2010.

The current membership of the Consultative Committee is:

Name

Mr. Edmond O’Connor (Chairman)

County Manager, South Tipperary County Council

Mr. Seán Hogan

National Director for Fire & Emergency Management

Mr. Karl Cashen

Director of Services, North Tipperary County Council

Ms. Clare Curley

Director of Services, South Tipperary County Council

Mr. Oliver O’Loughlin

Director of Services, Limerick City Council

Mr. Hugh O’Neill

Chief Fire Officer, Dublin City Council

Mr. Seamus Murphy

Chief Fire Officer, Mayo County Council

Mr. Adrian Kelly

Chief Fire Officer, Clare Country Council

Ms. Maria Melia

Chief Fire Officer, Wexford County Council

Mr. Louis Jones

Former Deputy Chief Fire Officer, NI Fire & Rescue Service

Mr. Dave Spillett

SACFO, Cork City Council

Mr. Declan Power

SACFO, Laois County Council

Ms. Mary O’Brien

SEFPO, Dublin City Council

Mr. Greg Burnell

District Officer, Dublin Fire Brigade

Mr. Peter McDonnell

Station Officer, Ballina, Co. Mayo

Mr. Michael Fitzsimons

Civil Defence Officer, Meath County Council

Mr. Pat O’Riordan

Specialist in Emergency Management, HSE

Mr. Noel Reidy

Consultant, Reidy Brophy Consultants

Mr. Alan Hill

Communications, Tourism & Cross- Border Consultant

Mr. Michael Slattery

Consultant, Michael N Slattery & Associates

Mr. Peter Bluett

Architect, Bluett & Donoghue Architects

Mr. Eamon Woulfe

IMPACT Representative

Mr. Eddie Ryan

IMPACT Representative

Mr. Brian Murray

SIPTU Representative

Mr. Noel Heaney

SIPTU Representative

Mr. Tom Daly

SIPTU Representative

Mr. Brendan McCoy

SIPTU Representative

Mr. Cathal Faulkner

SIPTU Representative

The National Steering Group on the Framework for Major Emergency Management (NSG) was established by Government Decision (S180/46/01/0003L) of 30 May 2006 and continues to operate. The NSG comprises representatives from the Health Services Executive, An Garda Síochána, the Local Authorities, the Defence Forces and their parent Departments. The NSG is chaired by my Department, and it performs the national level functions set out in the Major Emergency Framework; oversees the Major Emergency Development Programme; develops, maintains and updates the Major Emergency Framework in light of the experience of its application, and reports on these issues to the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning. The costs which have arisen in relation to the NSG in 2009 were €1,411 and €1,377 to-date in 2010.

The current Membership of the NSG is:

Name

Mr. Sean Hogan (Chairman)

National Director for Fire & Emergency Management

Mr. Edmund Burke

Principal, Department of Transport

Ms. Celina Barrett

Fire Advisor, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government

Mr. Michael O’Boyle

Principal, Department of Defence

Mr. Martin Power

Principal, Department of Justice and Law Reform

Mr. Fergal Goodman

Principal, Department of Health & Children

Mr. Gavin Maguire

Assistant Director of Emergency Planning, HSE

Mr. Joseph Crockett

County Manager, Kilkenny County Council

Detective Superintendent Liam King

Garda Headquarters, Phoenix Park, Dublin 8.

Lieutenant Colonel Michael Smyth

Defence Forces

Mr. Pat O’Riordan

Specialist in Emergency Management, HSE

Mr. Seamus Murphy

Chief Fire Officer, Mayo County Council

The National Emergency Response Co-ordination Committee was a non-standing committee convened to deliver a ‘whole of government approach' to support the local response to the flooding and severe weather. The membership of the committee comprised relevant Government Ministers, and Departmental and State Agency representatives. The membership varied depending on the emergency and the issues being addressed during their different phases. There was no additional cost to the State arising from the convening and operating of this committee.

Waste Disposal

Martin Ferris

Question:

89 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to state when work will commence at a club (details supplied) in County Down to remove waste that was illegally dumped and if he or his officials will meet with local representatives to discuss the matter [37287/10]

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) will prioritise the order in which waste from the remaining sites in Northern Ireland will be dealt with under the Road Map agreed for tackling historical illegal movements of waste which was endorsed by Ministers from both this jurisdiction and Northern Ireland in October 2007. This prioritisation will be based on the risk of environmental pollution, harm to human health and other relevant factors. My understanding is that the site in question is likely to be the next site to be addressed and that waste will be removed from it in the first half of 2011.

Ethics in Public Office

Brian O'Shea

Question:

90 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to revise the ethics legislation regarding local authorities to deal with council members who subsequently benefit financially or commercially from zoning decisions despite having complied with existing legislation to declare an interest and to be absent at the time of the decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37430/10]

Part 15 of the Local Government Act 2001 provides an ethical framework that requires both elected members and employees to maintain proper standards of integrity, conduct and concern for the public interest. The legislation is complemented by Codes of Conduct issued by the Minister.

The framework sets out clear requirements and procedures for a councillor who has a pecuniary or other beneficial interest in a matter arising for consideration by a local authority. In particular, a councillor is prohibited from influencing or seeking to influence a decision of a local authority on any such matter. Under the Act, failure to comply with these requirements constitutes an offence.

There are no plans at present to revise the requirements or procedures concerned.

Social and Affordable Housing

Willie Penrose

Question:

91 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress made towards the introduction of a rent to buy scheme for unsold affordable housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37434/10]

In the early part of 2009 local authorities had an estimated 3,700 unsold affordable housing units on hands. Very considerable progress has been made on both the sale of affordable housing and the deployment of unsold affordable homes for other purposes, including temporary use under the social leasing or RAS schemes. As of now, there are approximately 640 affordable units available for sale or transfer. While the sale of these units remains the preferred outcome, local authorities continue to have available to them a range of options to bring these units into effective use and are supported in this regard by my Department and the Housing and Sustainable Communities Agency.

I have no immediate plans to introduce a general rent-to-buy scheme across all local authorities because I do not believe such a scheme is needed in areas where there are only very small numbers of unsold units on hand. However, Dublin City Council, following approval by my Department, has recently launched a pilot scheme of "Rent to Buy" for a number of unsold affordable homes in three developments in Dublin City. I have asked Dublin City Council to prepare and submit a report on the operation of the pilot before the end of this year. This pilot will be reviewed before deciding whether it is appropriate to make such a scheme available in any other local authorities where there are significant numbers of unsold affordable homes. End of Take

Local Authorities

Ulick Burke

Question:

92 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason for the delay in the publication of the White Paper on Local Government Reform; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37459/10]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

111 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he will bring forward the White Paper on local government which was promised for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37436/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 92 and 111 together.

As indicated in the reply to Question No. 453 on 12th October, 2010, a dedicated Cabinet Committee has been engaged in finalising the policy decisions for inclusion in the White Paper on Local Government. I intend to publish the White Paper as soon as possible following completion of the Government's deliberations.

Urban Regeneration Projects

James Reilly

Question:

93 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the funding he is providing for urban regeneration projects; the position regarding current regeneration projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37529/10]

My Department currently supports an ambitious programme of regeneration projects to deliver integrated physical, social and economic regeneration, ranging from large-scale urban regeneration projects such as Ballymun and Limerick City to smaller estate regeneration projects in a number of regional towns around the country.

This year, my Department is providing some €126.8 million to support this important national regeneration programme, an increase of over 18% on the €107.1 million spent in 2009.

Regardless of the size and complexity of regeneration projects, each one requires the development of a masterplan for delivering the regeneration which generally provides for social inclusion interventions, a planned mix of public and private investment in housing stock and measures to address any deficits in local transport infrastructure or community/recreational facilities. The Masterplan process is ongoing for two of the projects included in the programme, Cranmore Estate, Sligo and Cox's Demense, Dundalk.

Details of the current status of each project and the amount of funding allocated for 2010 are set out in the following table:

Project

Project Status

2010 Allocation

€ million

Ballymun, Dublin City Council

Ongoing at present. Projected completion date of 2014.

50

Dublin City Council — Inner City Flats

Ongoing — construction work underway

8.795

Regeneration Projects at St. Michaels Estate, O’Devenney Gardens and Dominick Street

Contracts signed and construction due to commence at St. Michael’s Estate.Outline plans agreed by Dublin City Council for O’Devaney Gardens and Dominick Street; detailed plans expected in early 2011.

3.5

Laurel Avenue, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council

Project complete.

1.5

Knocknaheeny and the Glen Regeneration Projects, Cork City Council

Ongoing at present. Construction commenced on the Glen Phase 2. Works at Knocknaheeny D nearing completion. Cork City Council currently undertaking a review of the Knocknaheeny masterplan with a view to determining the next phases of the project.

15

Waterford City Council Regeneration Programme

Ongoing — construction work underway

3.5

Limerick City Regeneration

Phase 1 plans, involving 26 capital projects, approved by Government in June, 2010.

35

Mitchel’s Crescent, Tralee Town Council

Ongoing — construction work underway

5

Cranmore Estate, Sligo Borough Council

Enabling works and community projects underway. Development of masterplan delayed pending decision by Borough Council on proposed eastern bridge.

3.5

Cox’s Demesne, Dundalk Town Council

Masterplan process ongoing. Estate improvement works underway.

1

Local Authority Elections

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

94 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the proposed new mayor of Dublin office has been assessed for cost effectiveness; if it is intended to abolish the existing structures to accommodate the financial requirements of the new office; if any appraisal has been carried out of the total number of staff required in the new office; the way the costs involved are likely to sit alongside the various departmental cutbacks; the extent of any cutbacks needed to accommodate the new offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37414/10]

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

118 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the powers and responsibilities of the proposed elected Dublin mayor; the way this new office will be funded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37554/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 94 and 118 together.

I refer to the reply to Priority Question No. 63 on today's order paper which sets out the position on this matter.

Water Services

Joan Burton

Question:

95 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps he will take to ensure chlorine monitors are installed at every water treatment plant in accordance with the recommendation of the Environmental Protection Agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37416/10]

In 2007, all water services authorities (the 34 County and City Councils) were asked by my Department to review the operation of all water treatment plants and associated infrastructure and to ensure that the installation of continuous chlorine alarms and turbidity meters at appropriate locations at the treatment plant or in the distribution network was progressed without delay. This request was restated in August 2008 by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) who issued a circular to water services authorities recommending the installation of chlorine monitors and alarms on each public water supply.

While in some instances, the expenditure involved in installing such monitoring equipment was eligible for funding under my Department's Rural Water Programme, under the European Communities (Drinking Water) (No.2) Regulations 2007, the EPA is responsible for the supervision of public water supplies. Under the Regulations, the EPA can issue a binding direction to a water services authority to take the relevant action to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Regulations. Failure by a water services authority to comply with such a direction can result in a prosecution by the EPA.

Córas Úisce Poiblí

Jack Wall

Question:

96 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Jack Wall den Aire Comhshaoil, Oidhreachta agus Rialtais Áitiúil cén cabhair a thabharfaidh sé chun córas ceart uisce poiblí a chur in áit in Árann Mór, Contae na Gaillimhe; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [28737/10]

Faoin Chlár Infheistíochta Séarachais 2010-2012, a bhfuil cóip de le fáil i Leabharlann an Oireachtais, tá forbairt beartaithe ar raon cuimsitheach de bhonneagar seirbhísí uisce nua i gContae na Gaillimhe. Tá Scéim Sholáthair Uisce Inis Mhóir — Uasghrádú an Ghléasra Chóireála san áireamh sa Chlár, i measc an liosta conarthaí sa chontae atá le tosú sa tréimhse 2010-2012.

Cheadaigh mo Roinn maoiniú de €493,392 i mí Márta seo caite le haghaidh uasghrádú an ghléasra chóireála ar Inis Mór. Tuigim gur shínigh Comhairle Chontae na Gaillimhe an conradh le haghaidh uasghrádú an ghléasra chóireála agus gur dócha go mbeidh tús leis an obair seo go luath san athbhliain. Tá tuilleadh eolais faoin dul chun cinn leis an gconradh seo le fáil ón Chomhairle.

Environmental Protection Agency

Joe Costello

Question:

97 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide an update on the programme for Government commitment that there would be a review of the Environmental Protection Agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37418/10]

The review of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) promised in the Programme for Government commenced in February 2010. The review's terms of reference are as follows:

(i) To review the legislation governing the EPA, including the licensing functions and the processes in place to ensure public participation and the various remedies and sanctions available to the EPA for enforcement provided in the Acts, and to identify any necessary improvements in the legislation;

(ii) To assess the performance of the EPA against the mandate which it was given when it was originally established in 1993, in relation to the expanding goals which have been set for it in the past decade and in comparison with best practice elsewhere, and to identify any necessary improvements in the EPA's procedures and approaches;

(iii) To assess the scope of the EPA's mandate and whether it could be strengthened to include other areas;

(iv) To review the resources allocated to the EPA in relation to current obligations and further functions that may arise, on foot of EU legislation;

(v) To assess the structures and governance of the EPA (including the operation of advisory committees and whether non-executive directors should be provided for; and

(vi) To re-assess the ongoing relationship between the EPA and other parts of the environmental governance structure in Ireland, having regard to the environmental challenges facing Ireland and developments in society.

The Review Group has decided that seven broad thematic perspectives will be used to progress its work. These themes are:

1. Legislative Framework

2. Legislative Compliance

3. Licensing, Management and Assessment

4. Environmental Research and Information

5. The Relationship between the Environmental Protection Agency and its stakeholders

6. Governance, Internal Structure and Resource Allocation Issues

7. An International/Comparative Agency Perspective

The review process has included a public consultation period from April to June 2010, during which 131 submissions were received, and the Group is now consulting with key stakeholders, including other State agencies that interact frequently with the EPA, as well as business, farming and NGO representatives.

I expect the Review Group to be in a position to substantially to conclude its work by the end of the year and to submit its report to me quickly thereafter. I envisage that the report will be published in due course, following consideration of its conclusions and recommendations. Further details in relation to the review are available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie .

Foreshore Licences

Liz McManus

Question:

98 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide an update on the proposed review of foreshore legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37424/10]

Work is well underway in my Department to modernise the foreshore consent regime and integrate it within the wider planning system. This includes preparatory work towards the necessary legislative changes, and assessment of the requirements for the development of a Marine Spatial Plan.

Short-term administrative and regulatory measures are also being introduced to improve the throughput of foreshore applications. In this context, my Department has also been working with the Department of Finance on a business process improvement exercise in the foreshore area. This process has been completed and the recommended actions are now being implemented.

Land Transfers

Sean Sherlock

Question:

99 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the value and breakdown of lands that have been transferred to the land aggregation scheme to date; the total estimated value of lands that will be transferred when the process is complete; the number of local authorities that are transferring land to the scheme and the valuation process for determining a value for the individual transfers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37441/10]

Under the Land Aggregation Scheme, housing authorities may, subject to approval from my Department, transfer residential lands on which there are outstanding loans from the Housing Finance Agency to Housing and Sustainable Communities Ltd. (HSC Ltd — a company under the Housing and Sustainable Communities Agency) when the loans fall due for redemption and on the basis that there are no short to medium term plans for the development of the land. In such cases it is intended that the local authority will redeem the loan from the Housing Finance Agency in advance of transferring the land. Funding to redeem the loan will be made available from my Department.

HSC Ltd. will be responsible for the management and maintenance of lands transferred under the scheme.

Applications totalling almost €41 million from five housing authorities have been received by my Department. However, the amount recouped will depend on a number of factors, including whether a portion of the loan has already been redeemed and/or there has been any apportionment or partial development of the site.

To date one site put forward by Wicklow Town Council has been approved by my Department for inclusion in the scheme. The associated Housing Finance Agency loan of €1,390,114.60 has been redeemed.

The remaining applications, listed below, are currently being assessed, in consultation with the Housing and Sustainable Communities Agency.

Local Authority

Site

Tralee Town Council

Ballyard

Dún Laoghaire Rathdown Co Co

Ballyman Road, Rathmichael

Dún Laoghaire Rathdown Co Co

Lehaunstown

Dún Laoghaire Rathdown Co Co

Enniskerry Road

Offaly Co Co

Shinrone (Rathbaun)

Sligo Co Co

Coolaney

Sligo Co Co

Lisnalurg

Following transfer of the land, HSC will be required to prepare a report and implement a strategy for the management, utilisation and ultimate development of the land in question, including valuation in the event of land disposal. HSC Ltd. will seek input from the relevant local authority and other interested bodies in respect of the land in question when preparing the report.

It is expected that further requests from housing authorities to transfer lands under the scheme will be made in the coming months.

Water and Sewerage Schemes

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

100 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the outstanding waste water treatment works that need to be carried out countrywide; when these works are due to commence and the amount being budgeted for these works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37415/10]

It is a matter for each Water Services Authority to consider what wastewater treatment works need to be undertaken in their areas. Water Services Authorities were asked in July 2009 to submit an assessment of needs for water and sewerage services to my Department by 23 October 2009. In preparing these assessments, water services authorities were required to take into consideration key environmental and economic criteria in prioritising contracts and schemes to be progressed in their areas. These assessments were a key input to the development of my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012, which I published in April 2010 and a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas Library.

The Programme sets out the location and estimated cost of water and wastewater contracts envisaged over the period 2010-2012, together with further schemes to be advanced through planning stages. The timing of the commencement of contracts within that period is a matter for the Water Services Authorities subject to the need for my Department's approval at key stages in the progression of projects through planning and on to construction. Details on the progression of individual contracts can be obtained from the local authorities involved.

Investment under the Water Services Investment Programme is complemented by investment annually under the Rural Water Programme — a largely devolved programme of investment in relatively smaller water services schemes and the group water sector. The 2010 Estimates provision for water services infrastructure is €508 million, of which €415 million is available under the Water Services Investment Programme and €93 million under the Rural Water Programme.

Local Authority Housing

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

101 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if arrangements are in place for the commencement of the sale of local authority apartments under the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009; when tenants will be in a position to buy their homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37428/10]

Preparatory work is underway to bring Part 4 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009, which provides for tenant purchase of apartments in designated local authority complexes, into operation. I expect to make the necessary statutory instruments early in 2011 to enable the apartments sales scheme to be introduced as quickly as possible thereafter.

Question No. 102 answered with Question No. 80.

House Prices

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

103 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress that has been made on the establishment of a national house price database; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37432/10]

To take account of the lack of reliable sales prices in the case of residential property, and accurate information on market rents and other terms, including rent review clauses, in the case of commercial leases, the Government made a commitment in the renewed Programme for Government to create and maintain a comprehensive register in respect of commercial and residential property transactions.

Following close consideration by my Department and the Department of Justice and Law Reform in relation to the shape that such a register might take, the Minister for Justice and Law Reform now intends to bring forward amendments to the Property Services (Regulation) Bill 2009 in due course to give the Property Services Regulatory Authority the statutory function of publishing details of both residential sales prices and commercial leases, including rent review clauses.

Docklands Redevelopment

Deirdre Clune

Question:

104 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the support he will provide to progress a project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37534/10]

In conjunction with the Inter-Departmental Senior Officials Group which was established to consider the analysis and recommendations in the Cork Docklands Development Forum Report, my Department and Cork City Council is considering what enabling measures can be put in place to further progress the development of Cork Docklands, taking account of the changed economic circumstances and the current slowdown in construction activity and demand.

The Forum's Report envisages very significant investment in public infrastructure, including the provision of an Eastern Gateway Bridge and the re-location of the port to Ringaskiddy. Due to prevailing budgetary conditions, decisions in relation to the bridge, enabling link roads and port re-location, for which funding had been sought under the Gateway Innovation Fund, were deferred in 2008. However, the Government's Infrastructure Investment Priorities 2010-2016, published over the Summer, purposes the re-establishment of the Gateway Innovation Fund to support innovative and locally co-funded projects that will promote the economic development of the NSS Gateways as motors for their wider regions and the national economy, with an indicative level of Exchequer funding of €200 million from 2012 on.

Unfinished Housing Estates

Liz McManus

Question:

105 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the audit of ghost estates has been completed; when the report will be published; the action he will take in view of its recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37429/10]

Together with my colleague, Minister of State Finneran, I will, as soon as possible, publish the results of a national inventory to quantify, classify and map the various types of unfinished or unoccupied estates so as to facilitate a better understanding of the scale and extent of the problem, and to inform the development of policy measures to address difficulties on specific sites in a co-ordinated 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.

Building Regulations

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

106 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will confirm that the objectives of C1 BER rating was achieved as a result of the energy efficiency measures carried out at a cost of almost €11 million to the Exchequer in 2009; his plans to introduce the C1 BER rating as the standard for private rented dwellings in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37437/10]

Under a programme established in 2009 to improve the energy efficiency of local authority social housing units, my Department approved energy efficiency improvement works to some 1,155 vacant units across the country with a view to achieving a high standard of Building Energy Rating [BER] of at least C1, where practicable. Although the scheme only commenced in Autumn 2009, by year end my Department had recouped almost €11 million to authorities across the country for some 900 improved units, with the balance being delivered in 2010. Of these improved units, 48% achieved a BER standard of C1 or better and 12% achieved a C2 or C3 standard. Where units achieved a lesser standard, my Department contributed only 50% of the cost of the works, up to a maximum grant of €15,000. This retrofit programme has been significantly expanded in 2010 with a total funding provision of €40 million and additional technical guidance has been developed to support authorities in providing cost optimal energy efficiency measures for their social housing stock.

Minimum standards for rental accommodation are prescribed by regulations made under section 18 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1992. These standards were significantly updated in December 2008 via the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2008. Further measures to update, and more effectively enforce, the regulations required amendment of primary legislation and were addressed by the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009. These elements included increased penalties for non-compliance and the introduction of a more robust sanctions regime.

Where a property is offered for letting, the European Communities (Energy Performance of Buildings) Regulations 2006 — 2008 require a landlord to produce a copy of the Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate and advisory report in relation to that property to any person who expresses any interest in availing of the letting. The BER certificate and advisory report serve to enable prospective tenants to take the energy performance of a building into account when making decisions in relation to lettings and to compare in a standard format the energy performance of a range of buildings available to them. In this way it is intended that the BER system will promote greater awareness of energy efficiency in the property market and encourage building owners to take cost effective steps to improve the energy rating, and hence the overall energy performance, of such buildings. Failure to obtain a BER certificate when required by the Regulations is an offence, which may lead to a prosecution and a fine of up to €5,000.

I have no plans to specify a minimum BER rating as standard for private rented dwellings at this time. However, the matter is kept under review by my Department in the context of both strengthening the quality of the private rented sector and growing awareness of the energy performance of buildings.

Social and Affordable Housing

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

107 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of private lease agreements signed and commenced under the social housing leasing initiative and the length of the lease period; the average monthly cost and the full-year cost of the leases; the number of these properties that achieved the expected 20% reduction as compared to market costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37425/10]

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

114 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of unsold affordable housing units where agreements have been signed and commenced under the social housing leasing initiative and the length of the lease period; the average monthly cost and the full-year cost of the leases; the number of these properties that achieved the expected 20% reduction as compared to market costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37426/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 107 and 114 together.

Of the private lease units approved, 144 are operational with agreements signed. The average monthly cost for these units is €588 and the total full year cost in respect of the units is €1,015,988.

Varying discounts have been achieved depending on the details of the lease terms. Discounts therefore range from 8% for units where the property owner has retained full responsibility for management and maintenance, to over 33%. A breakdown of the discounts received by range is set out in tabular form below.

Discount levels achieved in respect of operational private leases to end of Sept. 2010

Discount achieved

Between 8-10%

Between 10%-20%

Greater than 20%

Total

No. of Units

4

72

68

144

The duration of the lease agreements also varies depending on contract type (for example where maintenance and management responsibilities are retained by the property owner units can be leased for a period of less than 10 years). A breakdown by lease duration is also set out in tabular form below. Length of operational private leases

Length

5 years or less years

10 years

20 Years

Total

No. of Units

59

68

17

144

Of the affordable lease units approved for use under the leasing initiative, 796 are fully operational with lease agreements signed. The average monthly cost for these units is €331 and the total full year cost is €3,167,557. Discount from market rent is not a consideration in respect of unsold affordable units; rather, my Department recoups to the authority the interest payments liable in respect of the loans taken by the authority to fund the affordable property in the first instance, hence there is no relation to market rent for these units.

Question No. 108 answered with Question No. 73.

Capital Projects

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

109 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 2 of 4 April 2010, the action he has taken regarding replacing increased incurred expenditure by local authorities which saw project overspends ranging from 5% to 160%; if bonus payments were made to local authorities staff regarding these projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37439/10]

In 2008, in the context of requirements relating to capital funding, my Department, following a competitive tendering process, commissioned Ernst and Young to carry out spot-checks on capital projects under construction in the period 2006 and 2007.

In general, the report found good performance in relation to procurement and that local authorities comply with the relevant guidelines. The report also found that, in a large number of cases where significant capital expenditure was involved, processes adopted by local authorities mirrored the formal appraisal guidelines.

However, the report also records deficiencies in relation to formal appraisals and project briefs, and completion of documentation, as well as delayed submission of final accounts. In particular, the report identified 11 issues relating to appraisal and management of projects and made recommendations to accompany those findings. These included increased expenditure on a range of projects. However, the report also acknowledged that cost increases "were usually attributable to changes in the scope of works to be performed and "unforeseen circumstances".

In response to the report, my Department wrote to local authorities on 22 March 2010 emphasising the importance of adherence to the Capital Appraisal Guidelines. All project managers were asked to review current arrangements for the management of projects to assure themselves that they are being appraised, managed and monitored sufficiently in line with Department of Finance Guidelines, as well as with relevant Departmental circulars. As far as the specific programme areas are concerned, issues arising from the report are being taken forward by the relevant sections in my Department dealing directly with those areas. In addition, my Department, in conjunction with the Department of Finance, is currently devising a training programme for local authority staff involved in capital projects.

Applications by local authorities for additional funding to meet increased expenditure are considered by my Department in the course of work on projects or at final accounts stage. No additional funding is provided by my Department to meet increased expenditure unless it is satisfied that it is appropriate to do so.

New forms of contracts have been in place for construction projects since May 2008. The new contract arrangements are designed to achieve greater cost certainty and better value for money for the Exchequer. The key difference from the traditional approach to contracts is the transfer of all contract risks (other than archaeology) to the contractor, who prices for that risk in a fixed-price tender bid.

In 2000, the Review Body on Higher Remuneration in the Public Sector recommended the introduction of a performance related awards scheme for County and City Managers, Assistant City Managers and Directors of Service of local authorities. The scheme was introduced in 2003 and awards were made by the local government Committee for Performance Awards on the basis of achievement of approved objectives submitted in advance: it is not possible to attribute any portion of an award to any specific capital project. The scheme has now been suspended and no performance awards have been made since 2007.

Question No. 110 answered with Question No. 83.
Question No. 111 answered with Question No. 92.

Severe Weather Events

Deirdre Clune

Question:

112 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to hold an independent inquiry into the flooding in the Cork area in November 2009; the reason such an inquiry has not been held to date in view of the benefits it would have; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37533/10]

The fourth report of the Joint Committee on the Environment, Heritage and Local Government entitled The Management of Severe Weather Events in Ireland and Related Matters was published on 20 July 2010. As the Committee's report illustrates, the response to a severe weather event generally involves cross Departmental coordination and collaboration. A recommendation that my Department conduct an investigation into the events surrounding the flooding of Cork City in November 2009 is contained therein. The report is being considered by my Department at present and I will make decisions in respect of those recommendations for which I have responsibility as soon as possible.

Local Authority Housing

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

113 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of properties rented under the rental assessment scheme by local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37423/10]

Since its introduction in September 2005, some 29,445 household units have been transferred to the Rental Accommodation Scheme from rent supplement. Of these, 16,319 were housed directly in RAS accommodation and a further 13,126 were accommodated under other social housing options.

A breakdown by local authority is set out in the following table.

RAS Cumulative figures up to end September 2010

Local Authorities (Housing)

No. of Private households transferred from SWA Rent Supplement to RAS

No. of Voluntary households transferred from SWA Rents Supplement to RAS

Total No. (Voluntary + Private) households transferred from SWA Rent Supplement to RAS

Total No. of households transferred from SWA Rent Supplement to other social housing options

Total No. of households transferred from SWA Rent Supplement

Carlow Co. Cl.

266

74

340

164

504

Cavan Co. Cl.

162

82

244

184

428

Clare Co. Cl.

307

85

392

197

589

Cork City Cl.

505

222

727

817

1,544

Cork North Co. Cl.

178

85

263

246

509

Cork South Co. Cl.

408

244

652

551

1,203

Cork West Co. Cl.

40

68

108

124

232

Donegal Co. Cl.

213

211

424

1,267

1,691

Dublin City Cl.

1,479

677

2,156

667

2,823

Dublin South Co. Cl.

1,034

49

1,083

925

2,008

Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown Co. Cl.

397

96

493

442

935

Fingal Co. Cl.

481

0

481

641

1,122

Galway City Cl.

540

185

725

296

1,021

Galway Co. Cl.

267

153

420

235

655

Kerry Co. Cl.

522

76

598

563

1,161

Kildare Co. Cl.

218

125

343

503

846

Kilkenny Co. Cl.

226

307

533

305

838

Laois Co. Cl.

103

82

185

165

350

Leitrim Co. Cl.

42

12

54

74

128

Limerick City Cl.

436

92

528

132

660

Limerick Co. Cl.

168

209

377

188

565

Longford Co. Cl.

351

0

351

73

424

Louth Co. Cl.

196

65

261

716

977

Mayo Co. Cl.

430

334

764

263

1,027

Meath Co. Cl.

100

63

163

258

421

Monaghan Co. Cl.

101

117

218

159

377

Nth Tipperary Co. Cl.

293

43

336

165

501

Offaly Co. Cl.

200

42

242

181

423

Roscommon Co.Cl.

244

77

321

266

587

Sligo Co. Cl.

226

159

385

189

574

Sth Tipperary Co. Cl.

408

79

487

357

844

Waterford City Cl.

231

249

480

273

753

Waterford Co. Cl.

172

28

200

232

432

Westmeath Co. Cl.

315

14

329

198

527

Wexford Co. Cl.

280

97

377

801

1,178

Wicklow Co. Cl.

256

23

279

309

588

Totals

11,795

4,524

16,319

13,126

29,445

Question No. 114 answered with Question No. 107.

National Biodiversity Plan

Joe Costello

Question:

115 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide an update on the implementation of the biodiversity strategy currently in place; if measures contained in current strategy have yet to be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37419/10]

In 2002, Ireland published its first National Biodiversity Plan. This Plan contained 91 actions, grouped under a number of themes, which reflected Ireland's commitment to the implementation of the objectives of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity. The overall objective of that Plan was to secure the conservation, including where possible the enhancement and sustainable use of biological diversity in Ireland, to contribute to conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity globally, and to advance other obligations of the Convention in the EU, regionally and internationally.

An interim review of the plan was published in 2005, and included an independent review by Comhar, the Sustainable Development Council. The review showed substantial progress in most of the Plan's actions, indicating that 23 actions had been implemented with a further 60 showing implementation was ongoing; leaving 8 actions requiring further action. Some of the actions implemented exceeded their aims, while others, which were ongoing, showed substantial achievement.

A further review of progress on the actions is being undertaken as part of the input to the new National Biodiversity Plan 2010-2015. I intend to publish this latest review in conjunction with the new Plan in the near future. I have invited interested organisations and members of the public to make observations on the draft of the new plan, with a closing date of 22 October 2010 for submissions. The lessons learned from the experience to date on actions in the first National Biodiversity Plan have been an important consideration in preparing the new plan.

Social and Affordable Housing

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

116 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which he has measured the total number of families on the various housing lists in local authorities here against the total number of houses vacant, completed or near completion in estates with a view to purchase by the local authorities through the local loans fund with a view to achieving nett savings when setting the annual cost of rent support against such expenditure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37413/10]

I am determined to ensure that the housing programme continues to be framed in a manner which optimises the delivery of social housing. To achieve this, it is essential that we tailor the use of available Exchequer supports to prevailing market conditions, and explore alternative solutions to address housing needs, having full regard to the sustainable communities philosophy outlined in the Government's housing policy statement Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities.

To this end, the range of delivery mechanisms continues to be adapted and expanded. For example, in 2009 I announced the introduction of a new Social Housing Leasing Initiative, through which it is expected that a substantial number of dwellings, including newly completed but not yet occupied dwellings, will be provided in the years ahead to meet housing needs, matching up oversupply, where it exists, with existing housing need. The leasing initiative, together with the Rental Accommodation Scheme, complements the traditional capital funded programmes operated through local authorities and the voluntary and co-operative housing sector. In this context there will continue to be provision for the selective acquisition of completed properties by housing authorities and bodies, subject to available capital funding.

I will be keeping the leasing initiative and all the other housing programmes under ongoing review to ensure that they continue to align oversupply of new housing, where it exists, with existing housing need, and that they are appropriately geared towards meeting the maximum level of housing need.

Question No. 117 answered with Question No. 72.
Question No. 118 answered with Question No. 94.

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

119 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Taoiseach the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37307/10]

My Department has a contract with Vodafone for the provision of mobile services and products procured through the Department of Finance Mobile Framework Agreement.

My Department also has a contract with Eircom for the provision of fixed line voice services through the Government VPN Plan.

My Department is currently in the process of reviewing its telecommunications requirements and as part of this initiative it is planned to carry out a tender under the Department of Finance, Fixed Voice and Voice over IP Framework 2010, when the necessary preparatory stage has been completed. In this context it would not be appropriate for me to provide details of the financial agreements in place between my Department and its current telecommunications providers at the moment for commercially sensitive reasons.

The National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO), which is the only agency under the aegis of my Department, has contracts with two telecommunication providers. One is with O2 and is for mobile phones. The price plan covered by this contract is the O2 Release Multi plan. The second contract is with Imagine and covers fixed land lines. The price plan covered in this contract is the IBA CommsSaver plan. NESDO continuously keeps these contracts under review to ensure that they offer the best value available from the various providers in the market.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

120 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Taoiseach the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with energy providers; if he will to provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37322/10]

My Department does not have any contracts in place with energy providers as its energy is supplied through the Houses of the Oireachtas system which provides for the needs of the Government buildings complex. Electricity and gas for the complex is provided by ESB Independent Energy Limited and Bord Gáis respectively.

The National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO), which is the only agency under the aegis of my Department, does not have any contracts with energy providers. Office accommodation for NESDO is rented from the Office of Public Works, which negotiates such contracts for the building where NESDO is located.

Departmental Staff

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

121 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Taoiseach the number of employees within his Department, male and female, who have been approved for participation in the Civil Service flexible working scheme; the number of employees, male and female, who have been refused leave to participate in the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36889/10]

In considering requests to participate in the Civil Service Worksharing Scheme my Department considers its operating requirements and endeavours to tailor workloads to allow for flexible attendance patterns that accommodate the business needs of the Department and the personal responsibilities or choices of those who wish to participate in it. Currently 32 members of staff in my Department, all female, are participating in the scheme. No applications to participate in the scheme have been refused.

Departmental Expenditure

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

122 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Taoiseach which recommendations contained in the report of the special group on public service numbers and expenditure programmes pertain to his Department; the detail of each and proposed savings relating to his Department; which of these have been implemented to date and the expected savings to be achieved on each of these in one calendar year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36989/10]

As recommended by the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure separate programme funding for the work of the Ireland Newfoundland Partnership and the Active Citizenship Office ceased in 2009. The separate Offices in these areas have been discontinued which has given rise to savings on my Department's Vote of approximately €308,000 per annum. The National Forum on Europe was closed in 2009 which also gave rise to savings of €515,000.

In addition there has been significant savings in the National Economic and Social Development Office. The Government considered the role of the Office in the context of the report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes and the recommendations of a Value-for-Money review of the Office carried out in my Department. These took account of the evolution of policy and programmes since the various bodies were established, not least the increase in the sources of policy analysis and commentary.

On 1st April 2010, an Order was made under Section 34 of the National Economic and Social Development Office Act 2006, which dissolved the National Economic and Social Forum (NESF) and the National Centre for Partnership and Performance (NCPP). As a result of this rationalisation, the budget for NESDO in 2010 was reduced by 34% from €5.059 million to €3.332 million, with potential for further administrative savings once the restructuring is implemented, of approximately €530,000 for a twelve month period. With the dissolution of the NESF and the NCPP, there have been savings on the cost of the accommodation required.

The CSO are implementing the recommendations of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure and are achieving the Special Groups savings targets. The restructuring savings are being achieved by a range of initiatives including a new organisation structure, consolidation of facilities management and re-engineering of business surveys.

The report recommends reducing the Census 2011 costs. Savings will arise primarily in 2011 and will be achieved by a range of actions including reduction in administration, advertising and field collection costs. These planned savings on the Census cost will be incorporated into the CSO 2011 estimates.

The McCarthy Group recommended that the Law Reform Commission, which is funded through the Vote of the Attorney General, be discontinued and that work on the Legislation Directory and on Statute Law Restatements currently undertaken by the Commission be transferred to the Office of the Attorney General, along with staff and relevant funds.

An alternative proposal from the Attorney General was subsequently accepted to the effect that the Commission's annual budget would be reduced by 33% and this recommendation has now been implemented.

The report recommended that the Chief State Solicitors Office should seek further reductions in expert witness fees and professional fees. The Office and the Department of Finance responded to these recommendations in framing the 2010 Estimate for the Office, which shows a €1.8m reduction over the 2009 Estimate.

In common with all Departments and Offices, there has already been a reduction in staff numbers arising from Government policies introduced. In my Department the number of whole time equivalent staff employed has reduced by 10% since the end of 2008.

In summary, I can assure the House that my Department will make significant savings on expenditure in 2010, and that this process will be managed so as to minimise the disruption to the very valuable public services they provide.

Hotel and Catering Sector

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

123 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach the employment in terms of job numbers in the hotel and catering sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37077/10]

The Quarterly National Household Survey (QNHS) is the official source of estimates of employment in the state. In line with EU requirements the QNHS collects sector of employment according to the standard EU classification (NACE Rev. 2).

The most recent figures available are for Quarter 2 2010.

The results indicated that there were an estimated 119,800 people employed in the Accommodation and food service activities sector.

Tourism, Cultural and Sporting Sectors

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

124 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach the number of persons currently employed in the tourism, cultural and sporting sectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37073/10]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

125 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach the employment in terms of job numbers in the arts, cultural and sporting sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37078/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 124 and 125 together.

The Quarterly National Household Survey (QNHS) is the official source of estimates of employment in the State. In line with EU requirements the QNHS collects sector of employment according to the standard EU classification (NACE Rev. 2). The sectors for which data are requested cannot be specifically identified within this classification.

Tourism industries and related employment are spread across a number of NACE divisions, groups and sections (primarily accommodation and food service activities, transport and arts, entertainment, recreation and other service activities). CSO does not currently compile a Tourism Satellite Account, without which tourism related employment cannot be properly estimated.

Employment in the arts, culture and sports broadly correspond with the sub-sectors of the arts, entertainment, recreation and other service activities sector for which estimates are currently published.

The table below shows the number of persons employed classified by NACE Rev. 2 Economic Sector for Quarter 2 2010.

Persons aged 15 years and over in employment (ILO) classified by NACE Rev. 2 Economic Sector, Quarter 2 2010

’000

Economic sector (NACE Rev. 2)

Apr-Jun 10

All persons

A

Agriculture, forestry and fishing

84.9

B-E

Industry

240.1

F

Construction

125.3

G

Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles

269.1

H

Transportation and storage

89.7

I

Accommodation and food service activities

119.8

J

Information and communication

74.1

K-L

Financial, insurance and real estate activities

103.2

M

Professional, scientific and technical activities

100.9

N

Administrative and support service activities

61.3

O

Public administration and defence; compulsory social security

107.8

P

Education

149.8

Q

Human health and social work activities

234.9

R-U

Arts, entertainment, recreation and other service activities

98.1

Total persons

1,859.1

Data may be subject to future revision.;

Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.;

Reference period: q2=Apr-Jun.;

Source: Quarterly National Household Survey, Central Statistics Office.;

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

126 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Taoiseach the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of his Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007-2010 inclusive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37575/10]

The Active Citizenship Office was established in 2008 under the aegis of my Department, as recommended by the Taskforce on Active Citizenship in its 2006 Report. The Office was discontinued in 2009 and the active citizenship function transferred to the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs in May, 2010.

The administrative budget for the work of the Office in supporting the Steering Group on Active Citizenship for the years 2008 to 2009 is as follows:

2008: — €200,000;

2009: — € 56,000.

There was no financial allocation for the Office in 2010.

State Companies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

127 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Taoiseach the new state-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of his Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37590/10]

No new state-owned companies have been established or have come under the aegis of my Department since 2007.

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

128 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Taoiseach if he will provide details of the number of civil servants in his Department who are e-working; his plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if he will provide details of the numbers of civil servants he hopes to have e-working by end 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37654/10]

While no staff in my Department are currently e-working on a full-time or part-time basis, 53 have blackberries, laptops or remote access. The Department will review the potential for further use of e-working in the light of the Public Service Agreement 2010-2014.

On the wider issues, the Smarter Travel Plan 2009-2020 recognises that flexible and e-working policies can contribute to reducing the need to travel and to achieving modal shift. I understand that the Minister for Transport has set up an interdepartmental working group to draft an action plan to deliver on this commitment.

Community Employment

Róisín Shortall

Question:

129 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will provide a breakdown of community employment workers by the principal social welfare payment being previously claimed and the number of these CE participants who were claiming a reduced rate payment because of means or other reasons. [37100/10]

There are currently 6,346 participants listed as having previously been in receipt of Jobseekers Allowance (JA) as at 13th October, 2010, and 4,458 previously in receipt of Jobseekers Benefit (which is not means-tested). All lone parents and persons with disabilities participating on CE retain all or part of their social welfare payment simultaneously to their CE payment.

FAS does not record the level of social welfare payment previously paid to CE participants, however, it is the case that for example, if a participant only received €100 per week on JA, the minimum they would receive on CE would be €216 per week. If they were receiving the full €196 JA per week, they would also receive €216 per week via FÁS funding. In both cases the FÁS system will show €216 per week.

School Accommodation

Sean Sherlock

Question:

130 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of prefabricated buildings in use at all primary and secondary schools in County Cork; the annual cost of rental for these prefab units; the number of additional units rented for the school year 2010 to 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37748/10]

There are currently 236 prefab units being rented in primary and post-primary schools in Cork City and County. It should be noted that a single prefab unit may consist of one or more classrooms and/or ancillary accommodation. The annual rental cost for these units is €3m.

My Department approved the rental of seven prefab units in Cork City and County to date in 2010 while rental contracts ended in respect 5 prefab units during the same period.

Institutes of Technology

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

131 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will respond to a query (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37104/10]

Proposals submitted to my Department by Institutes of Technology during the period 1st January to 31st March 2009 initially involved a total of 31 proposed voluntary early retirements, with added years, for academic staff. However, my Department was subsequently informed in March, 2009 by an Institute that one of the applicants included in its submission had withdrawn. Furthermore, following reconsideration by the Institute, it had decided to reduce the number of proposed voluntary early retirements from 16 to 8. Therefore, in consequence of this decision, the total number of active VER proposals received in my Department for the period in question was 22.

Prior to 2009 the policy was that consideration would be given to proposals from Institutes of Technology for voluntary early retirement with added years of staff in instances where

the individual was in a post that was no longer required for various reasons such as falling numbers on a particular programme or the discontinuance of a course for which there was insufficient demand,

the person in question was near to retirement age,

redeployment or retraining was not feasible,

it could be demonstrated by the Institute that voluntary early retirement was the most economically advantageous option in the particular circumstances,

the individual staff member would not be replaced thus reducing the Institute's overall staff complement.

Each individual proposal was considered on its merits and where sanctioned it was with the approval of the Department of Finance and subject to any conditions imposed by that Department.

The operation of these arrangements had the effect of achieving savings for the State where redundant skills were no longer required.

This policy was suspended in late 2008 pending the development of a new policy by the Department of Finance that emerged in early 2009 in the form of the Incentivised Early Retirement Scheme (ISER), which does not allow for added years. When announcing the new ISER in his supplementary budget speech of 4th April 2009, the Minister for Finance announced that this would be the only voluntary early retirement scheme that the Government intended to make available in the civil and public services.

School Accommodation

Róisín Shortall

Question:

132 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if officials from her Department have met with the Office of Public Works to progress the provision of a premises to a school (details supplied) in Dublin 11 and when this matter is likely to be finalised. [37129/10]

On foot of a technical inspection of the building referred to by the Deputy, which my officials deemed suitable, the OPW have agreed to transfer the building to my Department subject to a lease being finalised. The drafting of the lease is a matter for the OPW in the first instance.

Computerisation Programme

Arthur Morgan

Question:

133 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when each classroom in the State will be supplied with a laptop and overhead projector; if she is satisfied that every school has sufficient broadband connection for best use of interactive teaching and learning resources [37138/10]

As the Deputy will be aware, my colleague Minister O'Keeffe distributed €22.3m in capital funding to primary schools last November, with a specific focus on equipping classrooms with digital projectors, teaching computers and wireless mice and keyboards. Schools are asked to prioritise the deployment of these items in each classroom, and have been given access to national purchasing Frameworks to assist them in getting best value for money in their procurement. I intend to build on this investment with further allocations to the post-primary and primary sectors shortly. Schools will continue to be asked to prioritise the deployment of digital projectors and teaching computers in each classroom. As and when each school completes this priority deployment, it is required to use any remaining grant balance on a second tier of priority ICT equipment categories including classroom computers, printers, scanners, networking equipment and so on.

As the Deputy may be aware, the maintenance of ICT equipment inventories for individual schools is a matter for school boards of management themselves. My officials will be reviewing the need and focus for any further investment in this domain in the new year, in light of information to be provided by schools on their grant expenditure.

Currently over 97% of all schools are availing of the Schools Broadband Service. Of the remaining percentage 70 schools have opted out of the scheme and the remaining schools are awaiting installation in the coming months as part of the roll out of new broadband for schools contracts. The priority for the new procurement process was to ensure that the broadband services to schools kept in line with national infrastructure improvements.

Since commencement of the roll out of phase II in 2009 there has already been over a 50% increase in aggregate bandwidth usage, this is due to improved bandwidth speeds being made available to schools and the substantial reduction i.e. over 50% in the number of schools who are connected via satellite. For those schools that remain reliant on satellite, where a wireless or DSL solution becomes available they will be migrated to the improved service as soon as is practicable. In addition my Department in conjunction with the Department of Communications Energy and Natural Resources has connected 78 post primary schools in a pilot project with 100Mbp/s broadband.

State Examinations

Arthur Morgan

Question:

134 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if her Department or the State Examinations Commission is aware of the confusion and anxiety which was caused by the late delivery of sample examination papers for junior certificate Gaeilge last year and if she is committed to avoiding a similar situation with leaving certificate Gaeilge [37139/10]

Arthur Morgan

Question:

135 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills to provide information to múinteoirí Gaeilge on the format and materials for the leaving certificate Gaeilge béalscrúdú 2012 which was referred to in her circular letter 0020/2010, if CDs of samples béalscrúdaithe will be provided and when this material will be available [37140/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 134 and 135 together.

The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the holding of the examinations and ensuring the preparation of examination papers and other examination materials. I understand that the detailed specifications for assessment are currently being finalised by the Commission and will issue very shortly to schools. I have forwarded your query to the State Examinations Commission for direct reply to you.

School Curriculum

Arthur Morgan

Question:

136 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the membership of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment course committee for leaving certificate Gaeilge detailing the organisations represented and if she or her officials have met representatives of these organisations with a view to altering the leaving certificate Gaeilge course as detailed in circular letter 20/2010 [37141/10]

The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment has statutory responsibility for advising on curriculum and assessment issues in early childhood, primary and second level school settings. This advice is processed through the consultative structures of the NCCA, on which my Department, along with the State Examinations Commission and the partners in education are represented. The following is the list of groups represented on the NCCA Leaving Certificate Gaeilge syllabus committee: Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland; Teachers' Union of Ireland; Irish Universities Association; Joint Managerial Body; Association of Community and Comprehensive Schools; Irish Vocational Education Association; Higher Education and Training Awards Council; Comhar na Múinteoirí Gaeilge; An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta; Foras na Gaeilge; State Examinations Commission; Department of Education and Skills.

Circular 20/2010 informs schools of the prescribed prose and poetry which will apply for the Leaving Certificate Examinations in Gaeilge in 2012, 2013 and 2014. The material included reflects the recommendations of the NCCA which were transmitted to my Department by the Council following the course committee's deliberations. It is not the practice of my Department to meet NCCA course committees, given that my Department has a representative on them, and that the ensuing advice is transmitted formally to my Department by the Council. My Department engages with the NCCA on an ongoing basis.

A revised syllabus in Leaving Certificate Irish has begun in all schools in September 2010, for first examination in 2012. As announced in 2007, the proportion of marks available for oral assessment will increase in the 2012 examinations to 40%. The objective is to promote a significant shift in emphasis towards Irish as a spoken language, where students can communicate and interact in a spontaneous way, and where Irish is spoken every day in schools. In order to ensure optimum time and space for increased oral interaction in the classroom, and to allow for an increase of 15% in the marks for oral assessment, the volume of literature in the revised syllabus at higher level in the Leaving Certificate has been reduced on the advice of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, and the study of the history of the language as a separate item has been incorporated into the teaching of literature.

Some concerns have been raised that this change will result in the revised syllabus presenting insufficient challenge for students with a high proficiency in Irish, particularly in Gaeltacht and Irish medium schools, and that it is insufficient to maintain a rich speech and writing culture. The revised syllabus is being implemented as planned. However, I have asked the NCCA to review the implementation of the programme in the light of the issues raised and the experiences of the first cohort of candidates under the revised assessment system.

Schools Refurbishment

Phil Hogan

Question:

137 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when funding will be sanctioned for the extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37162/10]

I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers recently wrote to my Department seeking capital funding to provide additional accommodation at the school. An appropriate application form was furnished to the school authority for completion. Any application received will be considered in the context of the capital budget available to my Department for school buildings generally.

Higher Education Grants

Richard Bruton

Question:

138 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she is aware that honours degree courses which have been developed by a college (details supplied) are not recognised by her Department for the award of three year degree course grants because they are funded through the vocational education committee system which only offers support for two year courses and her plans to remove this restriction [37190/10]

My Department has facilitated the running of the course referred to by the Deputy in a PLC centre for the last number of years. It is accredited by Dundee University as the equivalent of a Level 8 award on the National Framework of Qualifications (Honours Bachelor Degree/Higher Diploma). The conditions of approval for the PLC programme state that the level of certification on completion must be at FETAC Level 5 or Level 6 or equivalent.

My Department funds four maintenance grant schemes, three at third level, the Higher Education Grants (HEG) Scheme, the Vocational Education Committees' (VEC) Scholarships Scheme, the Third Level Maintenance Grants Scheme for Trainees (TLT) and one for students attending Post Leaving Certificate Courses (PLC). The HEG Scheme is administered by the Local Authorities on behalf of my Department, the other three maintenance grant schemes are administered on a similar basis by the VECs. The PLC Scheme prescribes the terms and conditions of funding in respect of students attending approved courses in approved PLC Centres.

Students attending the course to which the Deputy refers are not eligible for grants under the maintenance scheme for students attending Post Leaving Certificate Courses as the level of certification is not appropriate to the PLC programme. I understand from the VEC concerned that prospective students are informed of the absence of grant support for the degree courses before they apply for places.

Schools Refurbishment

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

139 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the schools in Dublin 5, 13 and 17 that were approved for funding under the 2009 and 2010 summer works scheme; if all of the projects approved under this scheme have now been completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37199/10]

The Summer Works Scheme (SWS) was introduced in 2004 to provide devolved funding to individual school authorities to undertake small scale building works which can be carried out during the summer months or at other times that avoid disrupting the operation of the school. Since then, thousands of projects such as gas works, electrical and mechanical works, roof replacements and repairs, windows replacement, toilet upgrades, structural improvements and access improvement works have been completed in schools. A key principle behind this Scheme is that responsibility for the management of the project is devolved to the school authority. The school authority can make use of its local knowledge and presence on the ground to manage the project more effectively and ensure better value for money for the taxpayer.

Under summer works 2009 a total of 123 primary schools and 103 post primary schools in the Dublin area were allocated funding in the amounts of €16.9m and €22.8m respectively. 213 projects are practically complete and the Department is expecting notification of having reached practical completion from the school authorities of the remaining 13 projects shortly. Under summer works 2010 a total of 181 primary schools and 104 post primary schools in the Dublin area were allocated funding in the amounts of €20.7m and €15.5m respectively. To date my Department has received notification from the school authorities that 78 projects are practically complete, 174 projects are ongoing and 33 projects are envisaged to advance on site shortly.

Pension Provisions

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

140 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills her views on a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37205/10]

My Department has regulatory responsibility for the Superannuation Schemes of VEC staff while administrative responsibility rests with each individual VEC. Officials in my Department have been in contact with the VEC referred to by the Deputy and the VEC is contacting the person referred to by the Deputy in order to address the matter.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme

Joe Costello

Question:

141 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of survivors of institutional child abuse who came before the redress board in each year since its establishment; the number who obtained redress in each year and the number refused; the total amount of money that has been paid out to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37238/10]

I wish to advise the Deputy that a total of 14,295 applications to the Residential Institutions Redress Board have been processed up to the 18th October 2010. This has resulted in 13,400 awards being made to individual survivors with 895 being refused or resulting in no award. This figure can be broken down as follows to reflect the statistics on an annual basis as requested by the Deputy:

2003 — 535 awards made52 — Refused/Nil Award;

2004 — 1,819 awards made19 — Refused/Nil Award;

2005 — 2,120 awards made80 — Refused/Nil Award;

2006 — 2,473 awards made193 — Refused/Nil Award;

2007 — 2,519 awards made112 — Refused/Nil Award;

2008 — 2,382 awards made243 — Refused/Nil Award;

2009 — 1,118 awards made116 — Refused/Nil Award;

2010 to date — 434 awards made80 — Refused/Nil Award.

The total amount of money paid out in awards made to date is €842.5 million.

Joe Costello

Question:

142 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will detail the new reparation fund which has been provided by the religious orders for the survivors of institutional child abuse; the total amount of the fund which is in cash and the amount in property; the way the Government proposes to distribute the fund to survivors; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37239/10]

The Government announced its intention to use €110m of the offers of contributions to be made by the religious Congregations over the next few years to establish a Statutory Fund to support the needs of survivors of residential institutional child abuse on 15th April last. As the Deputy will recall the Congregations offered additional contributions, which they valued at €348.51m, in addition to their original contribution under the 2002 Indemnity Agreement. The property elements of the offers are being examined to determine their potential use to the State.

The proposal to establish a Statutory Fund is in keeping with the all party Motion passed by Dáil Éireann, supporting the proposal for a Trust to be set up and managed by the State for the support of victims and for other education and welfare purposes. My Department has undertaken a wide ranging consultation process, meeting with groups representing survivors of institutional abuse, the religious Congregations and other interested parties. Press advertisements also invited views and submissions as to the exact nature of the fund, how it will operate and the uses to which it will be put. The views expressed in the responses together with the views from the Department's engagement with groups and other interested parties are being considered and my Department expects to report to Government shortly on the matter.

Special Educational Needs

Pat Breen

Question:

143 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when an application will be processed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37251/10]

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 (SNAs) to schools to support children with special educational 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.

Departmental Procurement

Leo Varadkar

Question:

144 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of contracts held by her Department and its agencies with telecommunications providers; if she will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunications provider and associated financial agreements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37299/10]

The following companies are contracted to provide telecommunication services to my Department: Eircom, Siemens Enterprise Communications, Vodafone, 02, Complete Telecom, Soft-Ex Ireland, AA Telecom, Advanced Telephone Systems Ltd, Martin Kelly Business Telephone Systems, Phone Plus Ltd, Telephone & Alarm Systems, Spectrum Communications Ltd. The financial agreements in place with the telecommunications providers are that payments for services are made on receipt of invoices submitted by the provider, based on agreed deliverables. In relation to bodies under the aegis of my Department, contracts held, including those with telecommunication providers, are a matter for each agency and this information is not collated centrally.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

145 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of contracts held by her Department and its agencies with energy providers; if she will to provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37314/10]

The following companies are contracted to provide energy services to my Department: Bord Gáis Éireann, Chevron (Ireland) Limited, Energia, ESB, ESB Independent Energy Ltd, Flogas Ireland Ltd, Midland Oil and Geraghty Oil, Topaz Energy Ltd, Calor Teoranta and Kerry Petroleum Ltd. The financial agreements in place with the energy providers are that payments for services are made on receipt of invoices submitted by the provider, based on agreed deliverables. In relation to bodies under the aegis of my Department contracts held, including those with energy providers, are a matter for each agency and this information is not collated centrally.

School Transport

Terence Flanagan

Question:

146 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 13; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37328/10]

The school transport scheme, which is operated by Bus Éireann on my Department's behalf, facilitates the transportation of over 125,000 children to primary and post-primary schools each day including approximately 8,000 children with special educational needs. The purpose of the scheme is to ensure access to primary and post primary education for children, who because of where they live, might have difficulty in attending school regularly.

School transport is a very significant national operation involving about 42 million journeys and over 82 million kilometres on 6,000 routes every school year. This service is delivered using a mix of BE, both school transport and road passenger vehicles, private contractor vehicles including private operator scheduled services, and Dublin Bus, Irish Rail, DART and LUAS where practical. The scheme therefore encourages a significant reduction in daily usage of individual cars.

School Transport was also approved by Government as a topic for inclusion as part of the 2009-2011 round of Value for Money Reviews. This review looked at the original objectives of the scheme, whether these objectives remain valid today, the extent to which the objectives are being achieved, and whether there are possibilities for economies or efficiencies that would improve the value for money of the scheme. In this context, the review also looked at fundamental issues such as eligibility criteria and catchment boundaries, with a view to achieving efficiencies and value for money in the Scheme. The report of the Value for Money Review of the School Transport Scheme is currently being finalised.

In a wider context, the Government's Smarter Travel policy, which is led by my colleague the Minister for Transport, pursues the need to deliver a sustainable travel and transport system by 2020, including in relation to school travel. Since the publication of the Smarter Travel Policy in February last year, work has begun on developing a national cycle competency accreditation for schoolchildren. In addition, a stakeholder advisory group has been set up in relation to the delivery of the Green Schools Travel Programme. My colleague the Minister for Transport, continues to provide financial support for the Green Schools Travel Programme through the National Transport Authority. This programme reached 144,000 schoolchildren in 482 schools by the end of 2009 and yielded an average reduction of 22% in children travelling to school by car. The approved national programme aims to reach 260,000 schoolchildren by 2012.

Higher Education Grants

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

147 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when a higher education grant will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37348/10]

The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the relevant grant awarding authority i.e. the applicant's local authority or VEC. Where a grant application is refused, the reason for the refusal is given by the grant awarding authority. An applicant may appeal the decision to the relevant local authority or VEC. Where the grant awarding authority decides to reject the appeal, the applicant may appeal this decision to my Department by submitting an appeal form outlining clearly the grounds for the appeal. No appeal has been received by my Department to date from the candidate referred to by the Deputy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

148 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when a higher education grant will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37349/10]

The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the relevant grant awarding authority i.e. the applicant's local authority or VEC. Where a grant application is refused, the reason for the refusal is given by the grant awarding authority. An applicant may appeal the decision to the relevant local authority or VEC. Where the grant awarding authority decides to reject the appeal, the applicant may appeal this decision to my Department by submitting an appeal form outlining clearly the grounds for the appeal. No appeal has been received by my Department to date from the candidate referred to by the Deputy.

An Teanga Gaeilge

Dinny McGinley

Question:

149 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Dinny McGinley den Tánaiste agus Aire Oideachais agus Scileanna i bhfianaise an dualgais reachtúil atá ar Ollscoil na hÉireann, Gaillimh (faoi Acht an Choláiste Ollscoile, Gaillimh (Leasú) 2006), ‘a chinntiú go mbeidh oideachas á sholáthar trí mheán na Gaeilge’, agus atá i measc na bpríomhaidhmeanna a bheidh leagtha amach i bPlean Straitéise na hOllscoile, céard iad na socruithe atá déanta ag an Aire chun maoiniú a dhéanamh ar Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge agus ar straitéis Ollscoil na hÉireann, Gaillimh d’fhorbairt na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge [37364/10]

Bunaíodh Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge faoi choimirce Ollscoil na hÉireann, Gaillimh i 2004, chun tacaíocht níos dírithe agus níos straitéisí a thabhairt d'fhorbairt inbhuanaithe na gcúrsaí trí Ghaeilge, do ghníomhaíocht taighde agus do sheirbhísí eile. Maraon le cláir tríú leibhéal a chur ar fáil, soláthraíonn an tAcadamh chomh maith, insna hIonaid Gaeltachta aige, seirbhísí forbraíochta agus tacaíochta eile ar mhaithe le cothabháil pobal Gaeltachta, ina measc siúd sealbhú teanga agus cláir eile. Faigheann an tAcadamh maoiniú faoi láthair tríd an Údarás um Ardoideachas agus OE Gaillimh, maraon le maoiniú ón Roinn Gnóthaí Pobail, Comhionannais agus Gaeltachta agus ó Údarás na Gaeltachta.

Tá mo Roinnse agus an tÚdarás um Ardoideachas i mbun pléanna le OE Gaillimh chun próiseas a chomhaontú trínar féidir tacú i gcónaí le gníomhaíochtaí an Acadaimh. Tá an Roinn Gnóthaí Pobail, Comhionannais agus Gaeltachta agus Údarás na Gaeltachta araon i mbun pléanna den saghas céanna freisin i bhfianaise an róil thábhachtach a imríonn an tAcadamh ina gcuid straitéisí féin i leith forbartha sóisialta, geilleagraí, cultúrtha agus teangeolaíochta na Gaeltachta. I ngeall ar na costais shuntasacha atá i gceist, tuigfidh tú gur gnó iad na socruithe maoinithe a theastaíonn chun tacú le hobair an Acadaimh, ní do mo Roinnse agus don Údarás um Ardoideachas amháin, ach gur gnó don Roinn Gnóthaí Pobail, Comhionannais agus Gaeltachta agus d'Údarás na Gaeltachta chomh maith iad i bhfianaise na forbartha agus na tacaíochta leithne a thugann an tAcadamh i leith na Gaeilge.

School Staffing

Joe McHugh

Question:

150 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the progress that her Department has made since last summer on improving the employment structures for primary school secretaries especially in respect of entitlements, security on contract and pension provision; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37365/10]

In the context of the Towards 2016 Review and Transitional Agreement in 2008, it was agreed that the relevant parties would enter into discussions regarding the terms and conditions of both school secretaries and caretakers. Accordingly, a forum was set up with the aim of establishing the position in schools regarding the terms and conditions of employment of school secretaries and caretakers. The forum is jointly chaired by my Department and the Department of Finance and includes the relevant management bodies and the unions involved (SIPTU and IMPACT).

In order to establish the factual position of secretaries and caretakers, a survey, developed in conjunction with the school management bodies and the relevant unions, was carried out in all schools. The results of the survey will feed into the work of the forum.

As the discussions of the forum are currently in progress, it would not be appropriate for me to make any further comment at this time.

Schools Building Projects

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

151 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the application and the proposed location regarding a new school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37377/10]

The project referred to by the Deputy is at an advanced stage of architectural planning.

Authorisation was given in June of this year for the Design Team to apply for Planning Permission, Fire Cert and Disability Access Certificate.

Following receipt of the above statutory approvals, the further progression of this project will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme for 2011 and subsequent years. However, it is not possible to give a more indicative timeframe for the progression of the project to tender and construction at this time.

FÁS Training Programmes

Joe Carey

Question:

152 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of apprentices registered with FÁS in County Clare that are unemployed; the initiatives that are in place or are planned by FÁS to assist these apprentices in completing their apprenticeships; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37384/10]

A total of 165 apprentices registered by FÁS with either home addresses or last employer based in County Clare are currently registered as redundant. At end September 2010, 7,614 of a total 18,380 apprentices nationally were registered by FÁS as being redundant. Of this number, 4,320 can progress in their apprenticeship having reached the minimum qualifying standard at the relevant training phase while 3,294 must first successfully pass their outstanding assessment(s) to permit similar progression.

FÁS has introduced a number of measures to date which have assisted over 4,000 redundant apprentices with on and off-the-job training.

The rules for off-the-job training have been amended to permit redundant apprentices to progress to their next off-the-job training phases. Of those apprentices registered as redundant at end September, 2,439 had completed off-the-job training and 955 are currently attending off-the-job training.

The Redundant Apprentice Placement Scheme was introduced in April 2010 to provide opportunities to redundant apprentices to complete on-the-job training at Phase 3, 5 and 7. The scheme provides a weekly subsidy of €250 to the employer towards employment costs. At end September 2010, 258 had commenced their on-the-job training phase, of whom 17 had completed the relevant phase.

ESB Networks are providing on-the-job training to 252 eligible redundant electrical and motor mechanics apprentices in 2010. At end September 2010, 189 redundant apprentices had completed the training with 63 currently in training with ESB Networks.

FÁS has also developed Phase 7 Equivalent off-the-job assessments for redundant apprentices for the trades of Carpentry & Joinery, Electrical, Plumbing, Brick & Stonelaying and Cabinet Making, where Phase 7 assessments cannot be undertaken on-the-job. At end September 2010, 91 redundant apprentices had completed the assessments and a further 52 are scheduled to take the assessments.

Redundant apprentices may also avail of existing specific skills training courses and evening courses available at FÁS Training Centres to enhance their employable skills. At end September 2010, some 1,133 course places have been availed of by redundant apprentices to date in 2010.

Under the EU Leonardo Da Vinci III Life Long Learning Programme, Léargas in collaboration with FÁS, has supported 25 redundant apprentices to complete on-the-job training overseas. Eighteen redundant apprentices are currently in on-the-job training overseas and 17 redundant apprentices will be scheduled for on-the-job training in the first half of 2011.

At end September, 9 redundant apprentices formerly employed by S.R. Technics had commenced Phase 5 and 7 on-the-job training with the Air Corps and a further 9 are scheduled to commence in November.

FAS, in consultation with the Department, continues to examine further potential measures to facilitate the progression and completion of apprenticeships including possibilities for on-the-job placements with public sector employers.

School Transport

Joe Carey

Question:

153 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when will the review of the school transport scheme be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37385/10]

As the Deputy is aware, School Transport was approved by Government as a topic for inclusion as part of the 2009-2011 round of Value for Money Reviews. This review looked at the original objectives of the scheme, whether these objectives remain valid today, the extent to which the objectives are being achieved, and whether there are possibilities for economies or efficiencies that would improve the value for money of the scheme. In this context, the review also looked at fundamental issues such as eligibility criteria and catchment boundaries, with a view to achieving efficiencies and value for money in the Scheme. The report of the Value for Money Review of the School Transport Scheme is currently being finalised.

Schools Refurbishment

Joe Carey

Question:

154 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the schools in County Clare that have been awarded funding under the summer works scheme for 2010; the level of funding and nature of works that have been awarded to schools in County Clare under the 2010 scheme; the number of applications that were received from County Clare and the number which were subsequently approved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37386/10]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that details of the successful applicants under the 2010 Summer Works Scheme were announced on 19 April, 2010 and published on my Department's website, www.education.ie. A list of successful applicants from Clare is set out below for the Deputy's convenience.

There was a total of 65 applications received for the Summer Works scheme from schools in Clare. Out of the 65 applications, 53 schools, 42 at primary level and 11 at post primary level, were successful in their applications for funding for works to be carried out. The Planning and Building Unit of my Department has contacted all schools approved for grant aid with details and instructions on how to proceed.

There are 10 categories in total under the Summer Works scheme. The following list outlines the works applicable to each category:-Category 1: Gas Works Category 2: Electrical Works Category 3: Mechanical works Category 4: Projects to facilitate inclusion and access for special needs pupils Category 5: Toilet facilities Category 6: Roof works Category 7: Window projects Category 8: Curricular requirement projects Category 9: Other structural improvements Category 10: External environment projects The Deputy will understand that the Department does not publish information on the value of the grant aid awarded to schools as to do so could prejudice the tendering process.

Successful list of SWS 2010 for Clare Area

School

Roll No.

Project

Cratloe N S Cratloe

04919H

Mechanical

Holy Family Snr Ennis

07315N

Toilets

Rockmount Mixed N S Miltown Malbay

09390O

Roofs

S N Na Coradh Mullach

10191P

Mechanical

Tubber N S Tubber

10886E

Roofs

Clohanbeg N S Cree

11234M

Electrical

S N Padraig Nfa Fanoir Ballyvaughan

13379C

Access For All

Clohanes N S Mullach

13730L

External Environment

S N Cill Muire Inis

13942D

Toilets

Kilmaley N S Ennis

14468G

Roofs

S N Mhainistir Chuinche Quin

14757N

Mechanical

Barefield Mixed N S Ennis

14830U

Windows

Annagh N S Miltown Malbay

15221A

Windows

Cahermurphy N S Kilmihil

15327Q

Structural Improvements

Stonehall Ns

15350l

Toilets

Killaloe Boys N S Killaloe

15370R

Windows

Inch N S Ennis

16186G

External Environment

Cbs Bunscoil Ennis

16677C

Mechanical

Scoil An Sraith S N Tulach Brach

16930L

External Environment

Sn An Phairtin Mixed Parteen

16946D

Windows

S N Colm Cille Inis Diomain

17270A

Structural Improvements

S N Cnoc An Ein Inis

17583V

External Environment

S N Eoin Baiste Ballyvaughan

17633K

Roofs

Cooraclare B N S Cill Rois

17816S

Access For All

Kilnaboy N S Ennis

17832Q

Toilets

Ennis Convent Inf N S Ennis

17957N

Windows

Scoil Mhuire Naisiunta Cora Finne

18227E

Structural Improvements

Sn Iosef Naofa An Mhaigh

18339P

Toilets

S N Liosceanuir Inis

18410S

Roofs

S N Baile An Droichid Obriens Bridge

18467B

Windows

Ballycar N S Newmarket On Fergus

18526O

Windows

S N Cathair Aodha Lissycasey

18541K

Toilets

Lissycasey N S Ennis

18555V

Windows

S N Ma Sheasta Moyasta

18565B

External Environment

Shannon Airport No 2 Ns Shannon Airport

18740Q

External Environment

New Quay Ns Burren

19043W

External Environment

Flagmount Central Ns Flagmount Central Ns

19338S

Mechanical

Lisdoonvarna N S Lisdoonvarna

19700J

Roofs

Inchicronan Central Ns, Crusheen

19551S

Mechanical

St Mochullas N.S. Ennis Road

20075T

External Environment

Scoil Na Maighdine Mhuire Cora Chaithlin

20127M

Electrical

St Fachnan & St Attractas N S Kilfenora

20149W

Windows

St Josephs Secondary School, Spanish Point

62010C

Structural

Scoil Mhuire Ennistymon

61950W

Roofs

Mary Immaculate Secondary School Lisdoonvarna

62000W

Roofs

St. Joseph’s Secondary School Tulla

62020F

Mechanical

Ennis Community College Ennis

70830N

Access For All

Ennistymon Vocational School Ennistymon

70840Q

Electrical

St Joseph’s Community College Carrigholt Rd.

70880F

Toilets

Scariff Community College Scariff

70900I

Roofs

St Anne’s Community College Killaloe

70901K

Windows

Shannon Comprehensive School Shannon

81007U

Windows

Kilrush Community School Kilrush

91448K

Roofs

FÁS Training Programmes

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

155 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills her views on the recent announcement regarding a private training company (details supplied); if the company has been investigated by FÁS and FETAC, the results of such investigations and the actions taken; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37387/10]

The provider in question was first registered as a FETAC accredited provider in 2006, providing courses in such areas as child care, health care, psychology, business and finance. Monitoring inspections of the provider were conducted by FETAC in January and December 2009, with a follow-up meeting held in July 2010. The monitoring visits identified significant areas for improvement.

FETAC suspended the provider's access to certification on 13 September 2010, pending the completion of the monitoring process. FETAC also advised the provider not to enrol any new learners on programmes leading to FETAC Awards. The provider was given until 30 September to confirm with evidence that it was in full compliance with all requirements and to furnish a report to FETAC.

Information from the provider was received by the deadline, but, having considered the information, FETAC decided to continue the suspension of certification as issues regarding quality assurance procedures had not been satisfactorily resolved. This resulted in a suspension notice being placed on FETAC's website on 7 October. FETAC was notified on 10 October that the provider has ceased trading.

FETAC-registered providers, delivering programmes of 3 months duration or more on a commercial and profit making basis, are required to have policy and procedures for the Protection for Learners, aimed at ensuring that there are adequate arrangements in place in the event of a provider ceasing operations. Such arrangements can include having an agreement in place with at least 2 other providers, to enable learners to transfer to continue their programmes should the provider cease operation. FETAC is now examining the protection for learners arrangements in place for the provider in question and will assist affected learners as much as possible.

Separately, following an anonymous allegation of malpractice against the provider made to Skillnets Limited in February 2010, Skillnets Limited investigated the matter and subsequently put in place certain strengthened control measures from its own perspective. Skillnets Limited also promptly informed the Department, FAS, FETAC and the Comptroller and Auditor General upon receiving the anonymous allegation and where its subsequent investigations indicated potential fraudulent activity, it duly informed the Garda authorities. The matter is covered in chapter 29 of the Comptroller and Auditor General's report on the Accounts of the Public Services 2009.

FETAC assisted Skillnets Limited with its investigation of the allegation of malpractice and also reported the findings to the Comptroller and Auditor General.

An investigation conducted by FÁS' Internal Audit Unit into concerns regarding training provided by the company in question commenced on 13 May 2010. Payments due to the company concerned totalling €50,820 are currently being retained by FÁS. FÁS has held meetings with representatives of the company following learner and employer validation checks on a sample of claims funded by the Agency. It has also held a number of meetings with FETAC to establish the certification status of all learners on the sampled claims funded by FÁS where it was declared to the Agency that FETAC certification was being sought by the company in question. The investigation is ongoing and is expected to conclude in the coming weeks.

Schools Building Projects

Michael McGrath

Question:

156 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position concerning the provision of an extension at a primary school in County Cork (details supplied). [37403/10]

The project referred to by the Deputy is at an advanced stage of architectural planning; my Department are currently awaiting confirmations from the Design Team in respect of the tender documentation. Following receipt of the required confirmations this project will then progress to tender and construction.

School Transport

Jack Wall

Question:

157 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the reason school transport has been reduced in an area in County Kildare (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37539/10]

Under the terms of my Department's Primary School Transport Scheme, pupils who reside 3.2 kilometres or more from, and are attending their nearest suitable national school as determined by my Department are eligible for free school transport.

Bus Éireann is responsible for the operation of the school transport service on behalf of my Department.

Routes are planned in such a way to ensure that, as far as possible, eligible pupils have a reasonable standard of service while at the same time, ensuring that school transport vehicles are fully utilised in the most efficient and cost effective manner. My Department has been advised by Bus Éireann that with the reorganisation of services during the summer, as there was a reduction in the number of pupils in the area in question offering for transport for the 2010/2011 school year, it was possible to amalgamate the two services referred to in the details supplied, into one.

The current service for the pupils referred to by the Deputy remains within the general guidelines of the School Transport Scheme.

Special Educational Needs

John Perry

Question:

158 Deputy John Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if a school (details supplied) in County Sligo will receive additional learning support hours as a matter of priority; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37542/10]

As the Deputy will be aware, the General Allocation Model (GAM) was introduced in primary schools in September 2005 to ensure that each school has learning support/resource teaching support available to meet the needs of children with high incidence special educational needs. In general, where a school meets the criteria for developing school status as outlined in the staffing schedule for the appointment of teachers for the current school year (Department Circular 0021/2010), an appropriate adjustment will automatically be made to the school's allocation under the General Allocation Model.

In relation to schools which may not meet the criteria for developing school status, when the GAM commenced, a commitment was given to carry out a review after three years of operation. This review commenced in 2008. The process involved engaging with the Education Partners which includes parent, management and union interests in the context of securing their views on the model's operation. The review is at an advanced stage and is currently being considered within my Department. It is expected that the review will be completed this year.

Any decision in relation to the operation of the model will be taken in the context of the outcome of the review, the resources available and the competing demands for resources generally in the education system.

Schools Building Projects

Michael McGrath

Question:

159 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the application for a new school building by a national school (details supplied) in County Cork [37547/10]

My Department has reached agreement, in principle, subject to contract with Cork County Council. Due to the commercial sensitivities relating to site acquisitions, I am not in a position to comment further on the matter at this time. Once this acquisition is concluded, the proposed building project will be considered in the context of the capital budget available to my Department for school buildings generally.

Teachers’ Remuneration

Catherine Byrne

Question:

160 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will ask State Examinations Commission to explain the delay in paying thousands of teachers who acted as invigilators and correctors of State examinations during the month of June 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37558/10]

The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the holding of the examinations, charging and collecting fees for examinations and apply such monies to the carrying out of its functions.

In view of this I have forwarded your query to the State Examinations Commission for direct reply to you.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

161 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of her Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007 to 2010, inclusive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37567/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

162 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the new state-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of her Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37582/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 161 and 162 together

No new agencies, offices or state-owned companies have been established under the aegis of my Department since 2007.The Deputy may wish to note that responsibility for FÁS and Skillnets Ltd transferred from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation (D/ETI) to my Department with effect from May 2010.

Third Level Courses

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

163 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will respond to a query from a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37598/10]

Michael Ring

Question:

170 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of non-EU students who were enrolled at public higher education colleges and private higher education colleges for each of the past five years; and the countries of which they are nationals [37624/10]

Michael Ring

Question:

171 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the fees paid by non-EU students to higher education colleges in each of the past five years [37625/10]

Michael Ring

Question:

172 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will provide an example of the annual fees paid to a higher education college by a student from outside the EU for a medical course [37627/10]

Michael Ring

Question:

173 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of students at higher education colleges who are classified as non-EU nationals and pay fees accordingly, even though they may be long-term residents here and their parents are taxpayers [37628/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 163 and 170 to 173, inclusive, together.

Under the terms of my Department's Free Fee Initiative the Exchequer meets the cost of tuition fees in respect of eligible students who are pursuing full-time undergraduate courses of study which are a minimum of two years duration in an approved higher education institution. The main conditions of the scheme are that students must be first-time undergraduates, hold inter alia EU/EEA/Swiss nationality in their own right, and have been ordinarily resident in an EU/EEA/Swiss state for at least three of the five years preceding their entry to an approved third level course.

Where undergraduate students do not meet the eligibility criteria of the free fees schemes, it is the higher education institution concerned that determines, in accordance with its criteria, the appropriate tuition fee payable by such students. Details of the number of non-EU students, as referred to by the Deputy, who are long term residents and whose parents are taxpayers are not readily available. An example of the level of annual fee currently payable by a non EU student for an undergraduate medical course amounts to some €31,000. The total provision to the Higher Education Sector (including capital, current grants etc) amounts to some €1.8 billion this year. This includes an amount of some €400 million in respect of the cost of the free fees schemes. Statistical data in relation to higher education colleges is collected by the Higher Education Authority (HEA). Available date on the number and domiciliary of origin of full-time students enrolled in universities and institutes of technology are available on the HEA website at: http://www.hea.ie/en/statistics. Data in respect of student enrolments in private Higher Education colleges is not collected by the HEA.

Details on the amount of fees paid by non-EU students enrolled in universities and institutes of technology in each of the past five years are set out in the attached table (details in respect of the Institutes of Technology are only available for the last four years).

Schools Building Projects

John Cregan

Question:

164 Deputy John Cregan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if the technical report carried out by her Department on a school (details supplied) in County Limerick, has been completed and if it will now be published [37611/10]

Officials from my Department met with the Trustees of the school to which the Deputy refers at the end of June 2010 to discuss the future viability of the school. At that meeting, it was agreed that a technical assessment of the school buildings would be carried out.

A report of the technical assessment has been prepared recently and is under consideration. This report will be made available to the school authority in due course.

John O'Donoghue

Question:

165 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the progress made in providing additional grant aid for a proposed extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37617/10]

The school to which the Deputy refers has applied for large scale capital funding for an extension and refurbishment. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a band rating of 3.

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 available on the Department's website at www.education.ie.

The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time. In 2008, the school was approved funding for the replacement of a prefab for ASD facilities with a permanent structure. As the Deputy will be aware, I met a delegation from the school in June 2010. At this meeting, it was suggested to the school authority to proceed with the ASD project as a priority. Further works at the school can then be considered for progression in the context of available funds and competing demands on the capital budget of my Department.

John O'Donoghue

Question:

166 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the progress made in providing a new national school at a location (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37618/10]

The school to which the Deputy refers has applied for large scale capital funding for a new school. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a band rating of 2.2.

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 available on the Department's website at www.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 the 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.

Physical Education Facilities

John O'Donoghue

Question:

167 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the progress which has been made with advancing the building of a sports hall at a school (details supplied) in County Kerry under public private partnership arrangement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37619/10]

The school to which the Deputy refers has put forward a financial proposal to the Department to co-fund the building of a sports hall.

As the Deputy will be aware, I met representatives of the school authority with officials from my Department in June 2010 to discuss the matter. Subsequently, the school supplied further details regarding their proposal.

This proposal is under consideration and a response on the matter will issue to the school authority in due course.

School Transport

John O'Donoghue

Question:

168 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if a transport grant will be made available in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry in view of the fact that there is no room for them on the school bus [37620/10]

Under the terms of the Primary School Transport scheme pupils are eligible for free transport if they reside 3.2 kilometres or more from, and are attending, their nearest national school or school of amalgamation. In the case of amalgamations, pupils residing in a closed school area may be deemed eligible to the school of amalgamation only.

Bus Éireann, which operates the school transport scheme on behalf of my Department, have advised that the pupil referred to by the Deputy, in the details supplied, resides in a closed school area and is not attending his school of amalgamation and therefore, is not eligible for free school transport. Pupils may avail of transport to a school other than the amalgamated school on a concessionary basis. Such an arrangement would be subject to spare seats being available on the service, the agreement of the school of amalgamation being obtained and no additional State costs being incurred by way of re-routing the service. However, Bus Éireann have advised that the service in question is operating to capacity.

The Parents/Guardians of the pupil should continue to liaise with their local Bus Éireann office regarding the availability of seats. As the pupil referred to by the Deputy is not eligible for school transport the question of grant assistance does not arise.

Schools Amalgamation

Arthur Morgan

Question:

169 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills her plans for the amalgamation of small rural schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37623/10]

I can confirm that I have no current plans to undertake an immediate large-scale programme of small school closures at this time. The exception to this is small schools where the question of closure would arise in the normal course under the current sustainability limits. These will continue to be dealt with in the same way and such schools may be closed if the numbers reduce over time to an unsustainable level.

In considering any future policy changes relating to small schools, my Department is conscious that there is a wider dimension than just the cost of maintaining small schools to be considered. This includes the impact of school closures on dispersed rural communities, parental choice, the availability of diversity of school provision and the additional cost of school transport.

All Patron bodies and the Education Partners will be consulted as part of any initiative undertaken by my Department in the future.

Questions Nos. 170 to 173, inclusive, answered with Question No. 163.

Departmental Agencies

Michael Ring

Question:

174 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the agencies that are funded or part funded by her Department to promote Ireland as a place of study for students at higher education colleges; the countries in which they operate; the level of funding awarded to each of these agencies in each of the past five years; the volume of students who have been recruited to come to Ireland by these agencies and if she has satisfied herself that the expenditure has been well spent. [37632/10]

Last year, the Government announced a new framework for the promotion, quality assurance and co-ordination of international education.

As part of this new framework, Enterprise Ireland has been given the lead role in the development, promotion and marketing of international higher education, including responsibility for the Education Ireland national brand and web site. Enterprise Ireland has over 30 international offices, facilitating access to over 60 overseas markets.

The responsibility for promoting Irish higher education institutions to international students was previously split between Enterprise Ireland and the International Education Board Ireland (IEBI), a small body under the aegis of my Department. The responsibilities, and some of the staff, of IEBI have now been fully transferred to Enterprise Ireland.

I am satisfied that these arrangements constitute the most effective use of funding to support international education initiatives. Between 2006 and 2009, my Department provided the following funding to the IEBI to support international education initiatives:

2009: €443,000;

2008: €569,000;

2007: €605,000;

2006: €436,000.

Since the beginning of 2010, the majority of funding previously allocated to IEBI has been instead allocated to Enterprise Ireland, and my Department has arranged the transfer of the allocation to the Vote of the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation. In 2010, this amount was on the order of €250,000, although Enterprise Ireland's expenditure in the area of international education is in excess of this figure because it is part of their mainstream activities, involving expenditure from various budget lines within the agency.

With respect to student numbers, Enterprise Ireland has reported that in 2009, around 26,000 international students studied in Irish higher education institutions. The Government, in its new international education strategy, has set a target that, on the basis of the new framework to promote international education, the number of international students in higher education should be increased by 50% to 38,000 students by 2015.

It should be noted that higher education institutions are themselves primarily responsible for their international activities and the main function of IEBI (up to the end of 2009) and Enterprise Ireland has been to support these efforts by promoting Ireland nationally as a destination for international study.

FÁS Training Programmes

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

175 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills her views on the circular issued to FÁS in January 2010 which restricted the eligibility for FÁS training allowances only to persons who have been in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance or jobseeker’s benefit immediately prior to entering FÁS training courses; the consequences this will have for workers from other European Union countries working here; the way a person who has been reliant on supplementary welfare allowance will be able to avail of FÁS courses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37638/10]

The December 2009 Budget aligned the payment of FÁS training allowances to a person's entitlement to welfare supports. Consequently, where a trainee is entitled to a welfare payment at the commencement of their training course a training allowance is payable. If a trainee is not entitled to welfare supports at the time of the commencement of their training course they will not receive a training allowance. This budgetary measure was necessary in order to provide for an increase in the number of training and employment places. However, I would emphasise that it in no way impacts on a person's opportunity to access training supports from FÁS which remain available to all unemployed persons regardless of whether they are in receipt of social welfare payments.

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

176 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding apprenticeships and the arrangements put in place to ensure that apprentices whose training has been halted due to firms closing will have a programme in place to enable their training to conclude. [37649/10]

At end September 2010, 7,614 of a total 18,380 apprentices were registered by FÁS as being redundant. Of this number, 4,320 can progress in their apprenticeship having reached the minimum qualifying standard at the relevant training phase while 3,294 must first successfully pass their outstanding assessment(s) to permit similar progression.

FÁS has introduced a number of measures to date which have assisted over 4,000 redundant apprentices with on and off-the-job training.

The rules for off-the-job training have been amended to permit redundant apprentices to progress to their next off-the-job training phases. Of those apprentices registered as redundant at end September, 2,439 had completed off-the-job training and 955 are currently attending off-the-job training.

The Redundant Apprentice Placement Scheme was introduced in April 2010 to provide opportunities to redundant apprentices to complete on-the-job training at Phase 3, 5 and 7. The scheme provides a weekly subsidy of €250 to the employer towards employment costs. At end September 2010, 258 had commenced their on-the-job training phase, of whom 17 had completed the relevant phase.

ESB Networks are providing on-the-job training to 252 eligible redundant electrical and motor mechanics apprentices in 2010. At end September 2010, 189 redundant apprentices had completed the training with 63 currently in training with ESB Networks.

FÁS has also developed Phase 7 Equivalent off-the-job assessments for redundant apprentices for the trades of Carpentry & Joinery, Electrical, Plumbing, Brick & Stonelaying and Cabinet Making, where Phase 7 assessments cannot be undertaken on-the-job. At end September 2010, 91 redundant apprentices had completed the assessments and a further 52 are scheduled to take the assessments.

Redundant apprentices may also avail of existing specific skills training courses and evening courses available at FÁS Training Centres to enhance their employable skills. At end September 2010, some 1,133 course places have been availed of by redundant apprentices to date in 2010.

Under the EU Leonardo Da Vinci III Life Long Learning Programme, Léargas in collaboration with FÁS, has supported 25 redundant apprentices to complete on-the-job training overseas. Eighteen redundant apprentices are currently in on-the-job training overseas and 17 redundant apprentices will be scheduled for on-the-job training in the first half of 2011.

At end September, 9 redundant apprentices formerly employed by S.R. Technics had commenced Phase 5 and 7 on-the-job training with the Air Corps and a further 9 are scheduled to commence in November.

FÁS, in consultation with the Department, continues to examine further potential measures to facilitate the progression and completion of apprenticeships including possibilities for on-the-job placements with public sector employers.

Higher Education Grants

Michael McGrath

Question:

177 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding a higher education grant appeal in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [37657/10]

An appeal has been received by my Department from the candidate to which the Deputy refers. The appeal is currently under consideration and a response will issue to the candidate in due course.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

178 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will advise on the students assistance fund and the disbursement of same; the qualifying parameters of this scheme; and her views as to the possibility of this scheme being widened to accommodate those who at the present time particularly are experiencing grave difficulties in accessing third level education. [37684/10]

The Student Assistance Fund at some €5m continues to be made available through the access offices of third-level institutions to assist students experiencing exceptional financial need in the course of their studies.

Full-time registered students participating on third level courses of not less than one-year duration leading to an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification are eligible to apply for assistance under the Fund. This is in addition to any maintenance grant they might receive.

A revised model of allocation was introduced for the 2010/11 academic year. The revised model includes for the provision of funding on the basis of the number of new entrants from target socioeconomic groups in each participating institution. 25% of the 2010/11 Fund will be allocated on this basis increasing to 50% in 2011/12. The remaining portion will be allocated on the number of full-time enrolments in each higher education institution. The model compliments the dual function of the fund, which is to provide ‘once-off' emergency financial assistance and also to provide assistance to students in need of ongoing financial support. In allocating funds, institutions are advised to prioritise those students deemed most in need of financial assistance.

Information on the fund is available from the access officer at a candidate's institution. Information is also available on www.studentfinance.ie.

School Transport

Billy Timmins

Question:

179 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the school transport scheme as a pupil travelling to school on the Dart pays €4.70 but pays an extra €1.30 per week to travel on the Luas; if her Department can make recommendations to a company (details supplied) to have this reduced for pupils using the Luas at school times to travel to and from school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37686/10]

The school transport scheme, which is operated by Bus Éireann on my Department's behalf, facilitates the transportation of over 125,000 children to primary and post primary schools each day including approximately 8,000 children with special educational needs.

School transport services are delivered using a mix of Bus Éireann, both school transport and road passenger vehicles, private contractor vehicles including private operator scheduled services, Dublin Bus, Irish Rail, DART and LUAS where practical. Eligible primary school children travel free and eligible post primary children pay €300 per annum. A maximum family charge of €650 is in place and provision is also made for children from families with medical cards.

My Department has no authority in relation to the prices charged for the transportation of schoolchildren outside of the School Transport Scheme on services provided by licensed public service operators on a commercial basis.

School Staffing

Niall Collins

Question:

180 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the reason some schools continue to hire retired teachers for temporary positions of supervision and substitution whilst there are many qualified young unemployed teachers on the live register; if she will direct schools to cease this practice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37702/10]

The appointment of teachers to fill teaching posts is a matter for the individual school managerial authorities. Last year my Department wrote to schools in relation to giving priority to newly qualified teachers without work over those who had retired. I am endorsing the continuation of such an approach to all vacancies of any duration.

Schools Building Projects

John O'Donoghue

Question:

181 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will sanction grant aid to enable the new permanent resource rooms to be erected at a school (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37736/10]

I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers has recently applied to my Department for additional accommodation.

The application is currently under consideration and a decision will issue to the school in due course.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

182 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the proposed new school (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37746/10]

My Department is aware of the need for additional permanent school accommodation in the general Midleton area and, as the Deputy will be aware, Midleton has been identified by my Department's Forward Planning Unit as one of the areas projected to undergo increases in educational demand in the coming years.

In that context, my Department is currently in the process of acquiring a suitable site which is zoned by the local authority for education use in the Midleton Area and to this end my Department has applied for planning permission as part of the exchange of contracts.

When the acquisition of a suitable site is concluded, the Department will consider the optimal use of the site to meet the primary school needs of Midleton.

The school to which the Deputy refers opened in September 2008 and currently has provisional recognition from my Department. Responsibility for the provision of accommodation is a matter for the school Patron. In the meantime, my Department provides grant aid towards the cost of renting the school's temporary accommodation.

Education Schemes

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

183 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will reply to a query (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37749/10]

I wish to advise the Deputy that I have consistently encouraged schools to put in place book rental schemes as the most effective means of lowering costs for all parents.

In accordance with the Renewed Programme for Government, my Department issued funding to schools in June to enable them to provide assistance for school books.

Details of the funding were notified to schools by circulars 0041/2010 (second level) and 0043/2010 (first level), which are available on my Department's website. In these circulars, schools were urged to use this funding to establish book rental schemes. In total, €14.6 Million issued to schools. Funding was allocated as follows:

€11 per pupil in primary schools;

€21 per pupil in primary schools within the Delivering Equality in Schools (DEIS) scheme;

€24 per pupil in post-primary; or

€39 per pupil in post-primary schools within the DEIS scheme.

In the majority of cases, my Department does not have a role in recommending, endorsing or approving textbooks. Apart from a small number of prescribed texts at second level, mainly in the case of language subjects, decisions on which textbooks to use are taken at school level.

Syllabus planners are conscious of the need to avoid over-frequent changes, primarily in order to minimise increases in the cost burden for parents. School authorities have been advised that books should be changed only to the extent that is absolutely necessary.

Higher Education Grants

John Browne

Question:

184 Deputy John Browne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will arrange to have the full higher education grant approved in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Wexford. [37758/10]

The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the relevant grant awarding authority i.e. the applicant's local authority or VEC.

Where a grant application is refused, the reason for the refusal is given by the grant awarding authority. An applicant may appeal the decision to the relevant local authority or VEC.

Where the grant awarding authority decides to reject the appeal, the applicant may appeal this decision to my Department by submitting an appeal form outlining clearly the grounds for the appeal.

No appeal has been received by my Department to date from the candidate referred to by the Deputy.

Vocational Education Committees

Willie Penrose

Question:

185 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when the implementation of the decision to amalgamate the existing 33 Vocational Education Committees into 16 VECs will be announced; if Marlinstown, Mullingar will be the location of the amalgamated Laois, Offaly and Westmeath VECs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37759/10]

My Department will be commencing discussions with the relevant stakeholders, including trade unions representing staff in the VEC sector, in relation to the detailed implementation of this Government's decision to amalgamate the existing 33 Vocational Education Committees into 16 VECs. Many of the detailed aspects of the restructuring, including the location of the headquarters of the new VECs, will fall to be considered and worked through by my Department in conjunction with the VECs involved in any one merger before decisions are taken.

M. J. Nolan

Question:

186 Deputy M. J. Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of schools under the auspices of each Vocational Education Committee; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37916/10]

M. J. Nolan

Question:

187 Deputy M. J. Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of secondary school pupils under the auspices of each Vocational Education Committee; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37917/10]

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

The data which the Deputy requires are set out in the table which gives both the number of schools under the auspices of each Vocational Education Committee as well as the number of pupils excluding Post-Leaving Certificate and Core VTOS students.

PP Schools In Each VEC for the 2009/2010 school year

Enrolment figures are as at 30th September 2009

VEC No.

Official Name

Total Schools

Total Pupils

1

City of Cork VEC

6

5,284

2

City of Dublin VEC

22

13,051

3

City of Limerick VEC

3

1,714

4

City of Waterford VEC

2

1,466

7

Dun Laoghaire VEC

3

2,579

8

City of Galway VEC

3

2,229

12

Co. Carlow VEC

5

2,387

13

Co. Cavan VEC

5

3,135

14

Co. Clare VEC

7

2,166

15

Co. Cork VEC

21

10,015

16

Co. Donegal VEC

15

4,670

17

Co. Dublin VEC

26

11,367

18

Co. Galway VEC

11

2,160

19

Kerry Education Service

8

2,842

20

Co. Kildare VEC

10

4,294

21

Co. Kilkenny VEC

8

2,630

22

Co. Laois VEC

3

1,139

23

Co. Leitrim VEC

4

1,079

24

Co. Limerick VEC

9

4,470

25

Co. Longford VEC

4

992

26

Co. Louth VEC

5

3,784

27

Co. Mayo VEC

8

2,295

28

Co. Meath VEC

9

4,608

29

Co. Monaghan VEC

6

2,490

30

Co. Offaly VEC

5

1,766

31

Co. Roscommon VEC

3

714

32

Co. Sligo VEC

6

1,650

33

Co. Tipperary (NR) VEC

6

2,394

34

Co. Tipperary (SR) VEC

5

2,115

35

Co. Waterford VEC

3

1,224

36

Co. Westmeath VEC

4

1,692

37

Co. Wexford VEC

7

2,855

38

Co. Wicklow VEC

11

5,283

Source: PEIP.

M. J. Nolan

Question:

188 Deputy M. J. Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of post-leaving certificate students under the auspices of each Vocational Education Committee; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37918/10]

The figures for Post-Leaving Certificate (PLC) enrolments which the Deputy requested are contained in the file below.

These figures are extracted from the returns of recognised post-primary schools for 2009/10. This is the latest school year for which complete figures are available. Please note that in the case of Co. Laois in addition to the figures enrolled for post-primary schools there are also two Further Education Centres which had a combined total enrolment of 80 PLC students. These figures are included in the total for Co. Laois.

VEC

Uptake October 2009

Co. Cavan

1,581

Co. Carlow

992

Co. Clare

168

City of Cork

4,456

Co. Cork

1,466

City of Dublin

8,995

Co. Dublin

1,195

Borough of Dun Laoghaire

2,580

Co. Donegal

229

City of Galway

1,578

Co. Galway

221

Co. Kerry

751

Co. Kildare

395

Co. Kilkenny

669

Co. Laois

386*

Co. Leitrim

94

City of Limerick

1,199

Co. Limerick

354

Co. Longford

424

Co. Louth

1,474

Co. Mayo

501

Co. Meath

451

Co. Monaghan

363

Co. Offaly

49

Co. Roscommon

55

Co. Sligo

843

Co. Tipperary N.R.

747

Co. Tipperary S.R.

329

City of Waterford

904

Co. Waterford

240

Co. Wexford

941

Co. Westmeath

208

Co. Wicklow

1,285

Total

36,123

*Includes 2 Further Education Centres with a combined total of 80 students.

Figures provided by Department of Education and Skills October 2010.

M. J. Nolan

Question:

189 Deputy M. J. Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the annual budget for each Vocational Education Committee; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37919/10]

The most recent year for which full details of expenditure in VECs in relation to programmes and services under the auspices of my Department is 2009. I set out below for the Deputy's information a breakdown of current expenditure per VEC for that year.

Current Expenditure per VEC (2009)

VEC

Current expenditure 2009

€m

City of Cork

50.28

City of Dublin

150.54

City of Galway

22.40

City of Limerick

26.57

City of Waterford

17.97

Dun Laoghaire

20.43

Co. Carlow

21.76

Co. Cavan

25.47

Co. Clare

30.43

Co. Cork

90.70

Co. Donegal

51.32

Co. Dublin

108.17

Co. Galway

34.16

Co. Kerry

37.43

Co. Kildare

38.53

Co. Kilkenny

25.82

Co. Laois

18.52

Co. Leitrim

11.98

Co. Limerick

38.98

Co. Longford

13.77

Co. Louth

31.22

Co. Mayo

28.94

Co. Meath

39.31

Co. Monaghan

23.52

Co. Offaly

20.74

Co. Roscommon

13.02

Co. Sligo

16.74

Co. Tipperary NR

25.48

Co. Tipperary SR

23.55

Co. Waterford

14.64

Co. Westmeath

21.38

Co. Wexford

34.30

Co. Wicklow

47.82

M. J. Nolan

Question:

190 Deputy M. J. Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of staff employed by each Vocational Education Committee; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37920/10]

As the Deputy is aware, VECs are statutory bodies which employ and pay their own staff.

The information sought by the Deputy is being compiled by my officials and will be forwarded to him as soon as it is available.

M. J. Nolan

Question:

191 Deputy M. J. Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of teachers employed by each Vocational Education Committee; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37921/10]

The criteria used for the allocation of teachers to schools is published annually on my Department's website. The key factor for determining the level of staffing resources provided at individual school level for the current school year is the pupil enrolment at 30 September 2009. There are currently just over 8,400 wtes (whole time equivalent posts) allocated to the VEC sector. The document below sets out the information as requested by the Deputy.

VEC Scheme

No. of Teaching Posts

Co. Cavan

207

Co. Carlow

165

Co. Clare

180

City of Cork

331

Co. Cork

802

City of Dublin

791

Co. Dublin

898

Borough of Dun Laoghaire

155

Co. Donegal

391

City of Galway

139

Co. Galway

199

Co. Kerry

226

Co. Kildare

342

Co. Kilkenny

199

Co. Laois

99

Co. Leitrim

96

City of Limerick

115

Co. Limerick

356

Co. Longford

89

Co. Louth

265

Co. Mayo

200

Co. Meath

362

Co. Monaghan

201

Co. Offaly

153

Co. Roscommon

62

Co. Sligo

113

Co. Tipperary N.R.

186

Co. Tipperary S.R.

169

City of Waterford

99

Co. Waterford

95

Co. Wexford

234

Co. Westmeath

132

Co. Wicklow

388

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

192 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will provide details of the number of civil servants in each Government Department who are currently e-working; her plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if she will provide details of the numbers of civil servants she would hope to have e-working by end 2013. [38194/10]

Currently there are 14 officials at my Department that work from a home base and my Department provides them with the necessary IT equipment to assist them in carrying out their duties. Under the terms of the Croke Park Agreement my Department will also be looking at options to increase the number of staff availing of e-working where feasible.

As the Deputy will be aware this Department has significant numbers of staff based in Dublin, Athlone and Tullamore. In addition, due to the nature of the Department's functions many officials are assigned to specific office locations around the country. In addition, some grades such as educational psychologists, school inspectors and members of the Department's Building Unit are required to work regularly away from their office base and my Department provides them with all of the appropriate IT equipment in order that they can carry out their duties remotely.

Tax Collection

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

193 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance if he will report on Garda Operation Viking; if the operation is still active; the number of vehicles seized; the number of gardaí involved; the cost of the operation to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37198/10]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that it is assumed that the Deputy is referring to Operation Viking which was established in early 2005 in the Office of the Revenue Commissioners, Dublin Region, with the objective of countering the suspected evasion of Vehicle Registration Tax and VAT on new high value vehicles entering the State. The Operation ran until late 2005 and is no longer active. During the course of the Operation, Revenue seized over 160 vehicles. Almost 80 of these vehicles were in the high value category, with a combined value of almost €5.5 million. 60 of these high value vehicles were released on payment of almost €1.5m in outstanding VAT & VRT including penalties and interest.

Members of An Garda Síochána were not involved in the Operation. The Operation was carried out during the normal working time of Revenue Officers from a number of Dublin Districts and Revenue Customs Enforcement Officers from Dublin Port. No additional resource costs were incurred by Revenue during the operation.

Revenue continues to target evasion of VRT and other taxes and customs duties as part of its normal enforcement work. For example in the period 1 January 2010 to 30 September 2010, 1515 vehicles have been seized for VRT offences.

Departmental Contracts

Andrew Doyle

Question:

194 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Finance the action that is being taken to stem the flow of print contracts to companies domiciled in other countries which is 17.7% of the EU average of 1.49% of contracts awarded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37714/10]

The number of non-domestic suppliers winning public procurement contracts in Ireland has been the subject of recent controversy.

The EU Commission released a statistic, suggesting that 17% of the number of contracts awarded in 2008 went to suppliers outside the jurisdiction. However, this statistic is based on incomplete data relating only to above threshold procurements, where contract notices were published, and the nationality of the winning tenderer disclosed.

When one compares the value (as opposed to the number) of contracts going to non-Irish companies in 2008, the figure actually amounts to less than 5% of the overall public spend on procurement. It should also be noted that the figures quoted by the Commission do not distinguish between companies in the UK and those based in Northern Ireland, so of the contracts going "abroad", many of the contracts may have stayed on the island of Ireland. The EU Commission agrees that an alternative interpretation of their figures is that "about 95% of all procurement by value was from domestic suppliers".

As regards print contracts up to 2009, the Government Supplies Agency, a Business Unit of the Office of Public Works, organised centralised procurement of printing services on behalf of Government Departments, Offices and Agencies (including An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces). This role has been subsumed by the National Procurement Service, whose remit now extends to other public service organisations.

The OPW has always applied the relevant Directives and Regulations in its procurement operations. Notwithstanding this, most of the work under print contracts for the GSA, and now for the NPS, is carried out in Ireland:

In 2008, 89.4% of the total value of OPW print contracts (amounting to approximately €10m) went to suppliers in the Republic of Ireland (90.5% to suppliers on the island of Ireland);

In 2009, 95.6% of the total value of OPW print contracts (amounting to approximately €6.8m) went to suppliers in the Republic of Ireland (96.7% to suppliers on the island of Ireland).

The National Procurement Service (NPS) has made efforts to ensure that print companies are able to take full advantage of the public procurement opportunities that arise and are available to them. The NPS facilitated a seminar for the Print & Packaging Forum in September 2009, which covered all the issues relating to competing for public procurement contracts, such as the Public Procurement regulations, accessing the market opportunities, the tendering process, and general guidance on how companies should approach the preparation of tenders. Further seminars have been delivered to ISME in 2010.

In addition, the NPS has put in place a Print Panel for small print requirements (below the new threshold for advertising of €25,000). All print companies who are interested in public sector work should apply to be placed on the print panel. This has been published recently, but we have not had as great a response as we would have hoped. Of the 700 or so companies that are involved in print, only around 55 are included in the panel, which is available currently to all public sector buyers on www.opw.ie , together with instructions on how it can be used for low-value tenders. Without doubt, the most significant development in the area of facilitating the SME sector has been the publication by the Minister for Finance in August 2010 of Circular 10/10. These guidelines to public contracting authorities aim to ensure that tendering processes are carried out in a manner that facilitates participation by SMEs, while ensuring that all procurement is carried out in a manner that is legal, transparent, and secures optimal value for money for the taxpayer. It addresses the concerns that SMEs have regarding access to public procurement opportunities, and highlights practices that are to be avoided, where they can unjustifiably hinder small businesses in competing for public contracts. The new arrangements include:

greater open advertising of opportunities (threshold now €25,000);

a reduced requirement for paperwork (such as accounts) at the early stages of tendering;

an instruction that suppliers are not to be charged for access to tender opportunities;

an assurance that all criteria used would be appropriate and proportionate;

and an instruction that turnover and insurance levels would be set at proportionate levels.

All of these actions are consistent with the recently published EU commissioned research carried out by GHK on Evaluation of SMEs’ Access to Public Procurement Markets in the EU (September 2010), DG Enterprise and Industry, which notes that SMEs in Ireland secured greater access to public procurement than in other countries.

In addition to the work being done by the NPS and the Department of Finance, Enterprise Ireland is running strategic workshops to assist companies, such as Management Development workshops which have been run specifically for the print industry, and Strategic & Change Management programmes. Enterprise Ireland also offer assistance with exports, management development, lean manufacturing, research and development, and overseas offices programmes.

We cannot be seen to close ourselves off from the EU marketplace, by adopting a protectionist stance, as in 2009 alone 80 companies have won €210m in overseas public procurement opportunities with the support of Enterprise Ireland, which has set up a new public procurement section. I understand that, already this year, in the order of 63 contracts have been won, and Irish firms have secured €200m worth of contracts with the Olympic Development Authority in the UK.

Intertrade Ireland offers GO2tender workshops, which include mentoring, consortium and cluster development.

Many small companies with less than 10 employees can avail of the services of County Enterprise Boards, and should liaise with their local County Enterprise board to see what support is available to them.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has published links on its website to other countries' public procurement portals which are open to Irish companies as well as other useful links.

The Government is supporting the print industry and SMEs generally through the range of initiatives outlined above, but under EU procurement law and the principles of transparency, non-discrimination and equal treatment, it cannot set out deliberately to discriminate in their favour, when tendering for goods and services.

Pension Provisions

Róisín Shortall

Question:

195 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance, further to Parliamentary Question No 146 of 26 May 2010, if he is now in a position to provide the short and long-term savings to the Exchequer under the scenarios set out in the question. [37119/10]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

196 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No 147 of 26 May 2010, if he is now in a position to provide the savings to the Exchequer under the scenarios set out in the question. [37120/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 195 and 196 together.

The questions raised by the Deputy relate to the estimated savings to the Exchequer if both the Standard Fund Threshold (that is the maximum capital value of pension benefits that an individual can draw upon in their lifetime from tax-relieved pension arrangements) and the maximum lifetime limit for the tax-free retirement lump sum were reduced to various specified levels.

There is currently no underlying data available to my Department or to the Revenue Commissioners on which to base reliable estimates of the savings across the various scenarios outlined by the Deputy. Information on the numbers and values of individual pension funds are not required to be supplied by the administrators of pension schemes and personal pension arrangements. There would be particular difficulties with relevant data in the case of Defined Benefit pension schemes where there are no separate pension pots for individual scheme members. Likewise, information on tax-free retirement lump sum payments is not required to be provided by pension administrators.

My Department is liaising with the pensions industry with a view to establishing whether a potential basis exists for arriving at reliable figures and my Department will revert to the Deputy in the matter as soon as possible.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

197 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance if he will set out information available to him on the value of pension pot size at each quartile for those reaching retirement in each of the past ten years. [37121/10]

I do not have the information requested by the Deputy. Information on the value of pension funds of individuals on retirement is not required to be returned by the administrators of pension schemes to my Department or to the Revenue Commissioners.

Fiscal Policy

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

198 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance his views on the announcement by Ethiopia’s central bank to devalue the birr by one fifth on 1 September 2010; the effect this will have both on Ethiopia and other countries in the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36119/10]

I am informed that on 1st September, Ethiopia's Central Bank devalued the Ethiopian Birr by 16.5%. The latest in a series of devaluations since January 2009 and I understand is in keeping with a Government policy of allowing the Birr to fall against foreign currencies so as to bolster Ethiopia's competitiveness. Ethiopia is one of the world's poorest countries. I understand that its growth and development gains came under threat in 2008 with the emergence of twin macroeconomic challenges of high inflation (with food inflation peaking at 92% year-on-year in July 2008) and an extremely difficult balance of payments situation. In the face of these acute challenges, the Ethiopian Government took a series of corrective measures which, together with support from the international community including the IMF, led to improvements during 2009 and 2010. However, I am informed that the economy remains fragile and under stress.

I understand that a recent IMF mission to Ethiopia considered that the devaluation of the Birr, supported by a prudent fiscal policy and monetary policy, would help to stimulate exports, import substitution, and economic growth. Overall, the recent IMF mission to Ethiopia concluded that Ethiopia has made good progress in the first half of 2010 in macroeconomic stabilisation and that the economic outlook remains favourable with continued strong growth expected.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs visited Ethiopia during the summer and it was clear to him that, while Ethiopia remains a very poor country, it is making real progress towards development based on economic growth. Ireland is playing a part in this process through Irish Aid which is having a very positive impact on social and economic development in the country. The Irish private sector is also now getting involved through trade and investment in Ethiopia.

I am informed that the impact of the devaluation of the Birr on other countries in the region is not likely to be significant as — in common with other Sub-Saharan African countries — most of Ethiopia's international trade at present is with Asian, European and North American markets rather than with African countries.

National Car Test

Joe McHugh

Question:

199 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Finance the waiting lists for re-registering cars in each of the national car test offices in the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37135/10]

The requirement to have all used vehicles presented for pre-registration examination has presented some new challenges for both Revenue and the competent person appointed to carry out these functions, namely, the NCTS. In consultation with other stakeholders, e.g. the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI), the Farm Tractor & Machinery Trade Association Ltd (FTMTA), Revenue and the NCTS are facing these challenges and have implemented some revised procedures to speed up the registration process. For example, the NCTS have recently put procedures in place to provide additional capacity in their centres, including extending the opening times in some centres, and are an advanced stage in the configuration of two additional centres, one in Carrick on Shannon and one in Donegal Town, for registration purposes in order to address current delays. Revenue are also examining the possibility of providing electronic facilities for the registration of used vehicles that have been subjected to a pre registration examination. I understand from the Revenue Commissioners that the National Car Testing Service has informed them that, as at close of business on 12 October 2010, the waiting times for appointments for the registration of vehicles in each of the National Car Test offices engaged in the registration of vehicles on behalf of Revenue, are as follows:

NCTS Centre

Next Available Appointment (Days)

Arklow

5

Carlow

4

Northpoint

5

Dundalk

9

Ennis

6

Enniscorthy

1

Galway

3

Kilkenny

6

Letterkenny

21

Limerick

6

Monaghan

8

Kells

8

Nenagh

3

Naas

8

Skibereen

1

Sligo

4

Tralee

2

Tullamore

8

Waterford

5

Westport

3

Blarney

6

Greenhills

5

Flood Relief

Pat Breen

Question:

200 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide funding for flood relief measures (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37151/10]

The embankments in the Fergus system fall into three categories (a) those which the OPW has a statutory duty to maintain in accordance with the Arterial Drainage Acts, (b) those forming part of the Fergus Drainage District and (c) those that were, in the past, the responsibility of the former Land Commission.

In relation to category (a), the OPW carries out inspections of these embankments and, where maintenance works are considered necessary, they are undertaken as part of the Office's annual programme of maintenance works.

Maintenance of the embankments forming part of the Fergus Drainage District is the responsibility of Clare County Council. However, OPW has recently agreed in principle to fund, on a once-off basis, the refurbishment of a section of these embankments, which impacts on the OPW Flood Relief Scheme in Ennis. It is proposed that the work will be undertaken as part of a single project that will also include mitigation measures for Ballybeg and St. Flannan's. Clare County Council have indicated that a tender competition for the design of this project has been initiated, and they hope to appoint consultants during November 2010.

As regards category (c), it would be open to Clare County Council to submit applications for funding for mitigation works to these embankments under the OPW Minor Works scheme. If applications are submitted that meet the eligibility criteria of the scheme, they will be considered, having regard to the overall availability of funding for flood risk management.

Pension Provisions

Richard Bruton

Question:

201 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if persons who are dismissed from the public service as a result of the marriage bar which prevailed in the past have the opportunity to gain pension recognition for their years of service which were unfairly terminated at that time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37181/10]

Prior to 1974 female officers were generally required to resign on marriage and, depending on their service, received a marriage gratuity in lieu of any pension benefits. Following the abolition of the marriage bar, any officer appointed before 1974 has the option of resigning within two years of marriage and receiving a marriage gratuity, preserving benefits when she resigns, or of remaining in employment. Officers who received a marriage gratuity and who are subsequently reappointed in an established capacity in the civil service may refund the gratuity and have all prior service aggregated with subsequent service for superannuation purposes.

I have no plans to pay pensions other than on reckonable service which is the cornerstone of Public Service Pensions. Given the accrued liabilities to date it is very important that cost increasing measures are avoided wherever possible.

Electronic Payments

Damien English

Question:

202 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Finance in view of the fact that a recent report estimated very significant savings to the Irish economy from the more widespread use of electronic payments, if he will outline his strategy to drive electronic payments here; if that strategy is being implemented in a timely fashion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37185/10]

The promotion of the use of electronic payments is a key Government policy and a number of initiatives have already been taken in this regard, with the longer-term objective of significant reductions, over a number of years, in the volume of paper-based payments in use throughout the economy. This policy is fully aligned and is developing in tandem with market and regulatory developments at EU level, including the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), the introduction of the Payment Services Directive from November 2009 and the introduction of the revised Electronic Money Directive from April 2011. In promoting this policy objective, the Government has reduced stamp duty on combined ATM cards from €10 to €5 in Budget 2009, building upon changes in the previous year's Budget. Stamp duty on cheques was also increased from 30 cent to 50 cent per cheque, to act as a further disincentive to cheque usage. As part of the process of increasing the use of electronic payments new governance arrangements are required. I am currently considering the recommendations made by the National Payments Implementation Programme Advisory Group in their report on the possible mechanisms and mandate to further promote the development of electronic payments.

Higher Education Grants

Phil Hogan

Question:

203 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Finance if he will expedite a notice of assessment for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny to enable them to qualify for a third level grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37194/10]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the taxpayers Return of Income Form has been processed and a Notice of Assessment will issue to the person concerned within a week to ten days.

Tax Collection

Jack Wall

Question:

204 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare is due money back from taxes paid in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37226/10]

I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, based on the information available, the person concerned is not entitled to a refund in respect of taxes paid in 2009. A PAYE Balancing Statement (P21) detailing his tax position for that year issued to the person on 13 October 2010.

Garda Stations

Damien English

Question:

205 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Finance his plans to develop a building at a location (details supplied) or to provide a new facility in the area for the Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37240/10]

Castlepollard has not been prioritised for development by An Garda Síochána. Accordingly, the Office of Public Works has no proposals, at present, to provide a new Station at the location.

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

206 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37302/10]

The following contracts are held by my Department with telecommunication providers:

Telecommunication Provider

Type of Service

Financial agreement

Description

UPC

Data

Annual

Primary link to Government Networks monitoring system

Smart

Data

Monthly

Resilient link to Government Networks monitoring system

BT

Data

Monthly

Link for HR Management System Support

UPC

Data

Annual

Primary Government Networks core links

Broighter

Data

Annual

Resilient Government Networks core links

Packet Exchange

Data

Monthly

Internet access for agencies connected to Government Networks

Complete/Tiscali

Data

Annual

Internet access for agencies connected to Government Networks

Eircom

N/A

N/A

The Department of Finance has put in place a Framework with 4 providers for Fixed Voice and VoIP services. This framework provides public sector specific terms and conditions, and public sector pricing. Agencies can select one of the participants after running a mini procurement competition.

Magnet

N/A

N/A

UPC

N/A

N/A

Vodafone

N/A

N/A

O2

N/A

N/A

The Department of Finance has put in place a Framework with 3 providers for Mobile Voice and Data services (one is currently suspended). This framework provides public sector specific terms and conditions, and public sector pricing. Agencies can select one of the participants after running a mini procurement competition.

Vodafone

N/A

N/A

Smart Telecom

Data

Monthly

Resilient link between Government Buildings and Tullamore Office

BT Ireland

Data

Monthly

Primary link between Lansdowne House and Tullamore Office

BT Ireland

Data

Monthly

Resilient link between Government Buildings and Lansdowne House

Complete Networks

Data

Annual

Primary link between Government Buildings and Lansdowne House

Eircom

Voice

Quarterly

Voice link between Government Buildings and Lansdowne House

Vodafone

Voice

Monthly

Voice telephony services acquired under the Framework agreement above

Eircom

Voice

Monthly

Legacy voice telephony in the process of being migrated to Vodafone

O2

Mobile Voice & Data

Monthly

Mobile Voice & Data services acquired under the Framework agreement above

I have been informed by the bodies under the aegis of my Department that the following contracts are held by the individual agencies with telecommunications providers:

Office of Public Works

Service Provider

Service provided

Details of the Contract

Eircom

Fixed line voice services

Awarded on foot of competitive tendering process. Yearly contracts payable monthly, in arrears, on production of valid invoice.

Eircom

Data link services

Awarded on foot of competitive tendering process. Yearly contracts payable monthly, in arrears, on production of valid invoice.

Vodafone

Mobile voice & data services

Awarded on foot of competitive tendering process. Yearly contracts payable monthly, in arrears, on production of valid invoice.

O2

Mobile voice & data services

Awarded on foot of competitive tendering process. Yearly contracts payable monthly, in arrears, on production of valid invoice.

UPC Communications Ireland Limited

Data link services

Awarded on foot of competitive tendering process. Yearly contracts payable monthly, in arrears, on production of valid invoice.

Airspeed Ltd.

Data link services

Awarded on foot of competitive tendering process. Yearly contracts payable monthly, in arrears, on production of valid invoice.

Imagine Group Ltd.

Data link services

Awarded on foot of competitive tendering process. Yearly contracts payable monthly, in arrears, on production of valid invoice.

Office of the Revenue Commissioners

The Office of the Revenue Commissioners have informed me that they have approximately 130 locations countrywide and therefore are heavily reliant on reliable telecommunications for both voice and data traffic. An ongoing programme to modernise is under way which will result in both voice and data traffic using the same lines using a technology called Voice over IP (VoIP). The current list of telecommunications suppliers are listed below and this is subject to constant review and change to meet business needs.

Supplier

Description of service

Period of Contract

Eircom

Leased Lines and call charges

Yearly

Vodafone

Blackberry (mobile email)

Yearly

Vodafone

Mobile phone call charges

Yearly

O2 Communications

3G Cards (for remote access to Revenue systems)

Yearly

O2 Communications

Mobile Phone call charges

Yearly

Meteor

SMS rental (text service)

Yearly

Payments are made in respect of these contracts on foot of valid invoices produced by the service provider.

Office of the Appeals Commissioner

Service provider

Nature of the Service Provided

Period of Contract

Eircom

Land lines

Non contract basis

Vodafone

Mobile phone call charges

Yearly

O2 Communications

Mobile Phone call charges

Yearly

Payments are made in respect of these contracts on foot of valid invoices produced by the service provider.

Commission for Public Service Appointments

Service provider

Nature of the Service Provided

Period of Contract

Eircom

Messaging service. On moving to a new location the Commission for Public Service Appointments required a messaging service to redirect people to their new location

There was once off fee charged for setting up the service. Monthly invoices are received in relation to both line rental and the messaging service

Vodafone Ireland

Mobile services for four employees

Charged monthly

Public Appointments Service

Service provider

Nature of the Service Provided

Period of Contract

Eircom

Landlines

Non contract basis

Vodafone Ireland

Mobile services for four employees

Charged monthly

State Laboratory

Service provider

Nature of the Service Provided

Period of Contract

Eircom

Landlines

Non contract basis

Vodafone Ireland

Mobile services for four employees

Non contract basis

Valuation Office

Service provider

Nature of the Service Provided

Period of Contract

Eircom

Land lines

Non contract basis payment is made at the end of every month.

Vodafone

Mobile phones

Payment is made on a monthly basis

Vodafone

30 Mobile Data Cards

Non contract basis paid monthly

O2

10 Mobile Data Cards

Non contract basis paid monthly

Office of the Ombudsman

Service provider

Nature of the Service Provided

Period of Contract

Eircom

For provision of internet connectivity and related support.

Annual — Payment made on receipt of valid invoice from the service provider.

National Treasury Management Agency

Details of the telecommunication providers used by the National Treasury Management Agency. SWIFT related telecommunications provided by the following companies:

Service provider

Nature of the Service Provided

AT&T

2 two private SWIFT connections on NTMA live site and backup connection at HP Swords

Eircom

PSTN backup connection at HP Swords

Smart Telecom

alternate data links (separate links for essential Dealer internet connectivity and private contractor Internet access)

Detail of general telecommunications providers are as follows:

Service provider

Nature of the Service Provided

Eircom

100Mb Links at Treasury Building and Business Continuity Site (integrated into Government Networks with resilient routing)

Eircom

Fixed Wireless 2 Mb connection to Dame Court (fail-over wireless Internet services link in case of ground line failure)

Complete Network Technologies

100 Mb link at Treasury Building (integrated into Government Networks)

British Telecom

Private Circuit to Business Continuity site at HP Swords (for business continuity, backup/recovery and SWIFT)

Vodafone

Mobile Communications

Eircom

Fixed Line voice communications

Smart Telecom

Alternate voice carrier/switchboard number

Smart Telecom

Alternate data links (separate links for essential Dealer internet connectivity and private contractor Internet access)

The Special EU Programmes Body

Service provider

Nature of the Service Provided

Vodafone

Mobile UK

02-UK

Mobile UK

02-ROI

Mobile ROI

02 Blackberry

Blackberry (mobile and data)

British Telecom

UK Landlines

Eircom

ROI Landlines

GP Telecom

Free Phone Number

BT Internet

Omagh Broadband

Bytel Connections

Wide Area Network

Eircom

Monaghan Broad Band

The costs of these services are shared equally between the Department of Finance and the Department of Finance and Personnel Northern Ireland.

The Central Bank of Ireland

The Central Bank of Ireland of Ireland purchase telecommunication services from the following service providers Eircom, British Telecom, Vodafone and O2. Details of the annual spend on Telecommunications and Postage are contained in the annual report of the Central Bank.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

207 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with energy providers; if he will to provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37317/10]

The contracts for energy supply of Government Departments, Offices and Agencies are procured by the former Government Supplies Agency (GSA). The National Procurement Service of the Office of Public Works has assumed responsibility for GSA contracts. The contracts put in place by the GSA with energy providers are as follows:

Supplier

Contract

Date

Contract Value 2008

Contract Value 2009

Electricity

ESB.ie Energia

PS 77

01/07/07

12,839,433

11,814,275

Natural Gas

Bord Gas Eireann

PS 117

01/04/07

10,013,674

6,292,002

LPG

Flo Gas

PS 112

01/08/06

1,324,716

793,446

Liquid Fuels Bulk

Topaz

PS 113

01/03/07

6,791,308

4,926,011

Automotive Fuel Charge Card

Topaz

PS142

01/05/09

0

3,754,575

Supply of energy to central government sites continues through these contracts to date.

All energy contracts are awarded following a competitive tendering process The financial arrangements (procurement model) associated with these contracts are based on discounts from benchmark industry pricing standards.

Competitions for electricity and natural gas frameworks have just concluded and will supersede the existing arrangements.

The Office of Public Works Heritage Service is responsible for some 750 properties and sites across the country ranging from large scale, such as the Dublin Castle complex, to small such as Heywood Gardens, Co. Laois. Where provided each property manages its own energy acquisition. This includes electricity supply from the ESB at standard rates and charges to heating oil and gas procured through the most convenient provider, either local or national. The contract details are maintained locally.

My Department has energy supply to a number of different buildings, and uses electricity supply from both E.S.B. and Energia, gas supply from Bord Gáis and Flogas, and heating oil from Topaz.

I have been informed by the bodies under the aegis of my Department that the following arrangements are in place with various energy providers:

Office of the Revenue Commissioners

The office of the Revenue Commissioners use Airtricity, ESB Independent Energy Ltd., ESB and Energia for electricity supply. The gas requirements are supplied by Bórd Gáis and heating oil is supplied by Texaco/Cheveron.

Contracts for the supply of electricity, gas and oil have now lapsed. The Office of the Revenue Commissioners will be availing of new framework agreements put in place by the National Procurement Service of the Office of Public Works..

Fuel for the Revenue's vehicle fleet is supplied by Topaz under a 3-yer contract which is due to expire in March 2011.

Public Appointments Service

The Public Appointments Service use Bórd Gáis for the heating requirements and the ESB for their electrical needs. They are covered by the terms of the new framework agreements agreed by the Office of Public Works.

State Laboratory

The State Laboratory has contracts with ESB for the supply of power and with Bórd Gáis for heating their requirements. Both contracts were negotiated by the Office of Public Works and payments based on usage, are made monthly within an agreed timeframe.

Valuation Office

The ESB is currently the Valuation Office energy provider. Payment are made upon the receipt of bills outlining cost of usage.

The Office of the Ombudsman

The Office of the Ombudsman has accounts with ESB for the supply of power and with Bórd Gáis for heating their requirements. Contracts in respect of the supply of these services were negotiated by the Office of Public Works and payments based on usage, are made monthly within an agreed timeframe.

Special EU Programmes Body

The Special EU Programmes Body have a contract with Airtricity to supply electricity for it's Belfast and Omagh Offices. Electricity costs are shared on an equal basis by both the Department of Finance and the Department of Finance and Personnel in Northern Ireland.

The Central Bank of Ireland

The Central Bank of Ireland use the ESB, Energia and Bórd Gáis for their electrical and heating requirements.

The National Management Treasury Agency

The National Treasury Management Agency use Airtricity for their electrical requirements.

Tax Collection

Michael McGrath

Question:

208 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding an appeal for the repayment of VAT on an appliance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [37326/10]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the Value Added Tax (Refund of Tax) (No. 15) Order 1981 enables Revenue to refund the VAT paid on qualifying goods which are purchased for the exclusive use of disabled persons suffering a specific degree of disablement. The relief applies to VAT on the purchase of aids and appliances designed to assist a disabled person to overcome his/her disability in the performance of daily functions or in the exercise of a vocation. Typical examples of qualifying aids and appliances include necessary domestic aids (e.g. drinking and eating aids designed solely for the disabled); walk-in baths designed for the disabled; commode chairs and similar facilities; lifting seats and specified chairs designed for the disabled; hoists and stair lifts designed for invalids; communication aids designed for those unable to speak. The installation of a domestic central heating system does not qualify for relief under the Value Added Tax (Refund of Tax) (No. 15) Order 1981.

Tax Code

Frank Fahey

Question:

209 Deputy Frank Fahey asked the Minister for Finance the amount of revenue that would accrue to the Exchequer in 2011, if a third tax rate for persons earning over €100,000 was introduced at 50%, 55% and 60%. [37357/10]

It is assumed that the threshold for the proposed new tax bands mentioned by the Deputy would not alter the existing standard rate band structure applying to single and widowed persons, to lone parents and married couples. I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated full year yield to the Exchequer, estimated by reference to 2011 incomes, of the introduction of each of the proposed new rates would be of the order of €525 million, €820 million and €1,110 million respectively. Given the current band structures, major issues would need to be resolved as to how in practice such new rates could be integrated into the current system and how this would affect the relative position of different types of income earners.

These figures are estimates from the Revenue tax-forecasting model using actual data for the year 2008 adjusted as necessary for income and employment trends for the year 2011. They are therefore provisional and likely to be revised.

Flood Relief

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

210 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which the full appraisal and assessment of flood damage arising from floods in 2009 has been carried out; the degree to which damage to public and private property has been amalgamated and costed in this assessment; the full cost emerging; the extent to which funding has been sought from the European institutions towards repair and prevention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37443/10]

The total direct costs arising from the floods in late 2009 were estimated to amount to 520.9m euro. Of this, 276.9m euro related to costs to the State with the remaining 244m euro consisting of damage to private infrastructure (residential property, commercial property, and motor vehicles) which was covered by private insurance. My Department made an application to the EU Commission for funding under the EU Solidarity Fund based on costings of damage received from Departments and local authorities. A regional application was made as the estimate of the extent of the damage does not meet the Solidarity Fund's threshold of 0.6% of GNI or 935.5m euro for a national disaster.

111.5m euro of the 276.9m euro costs to the State were eligible for assistance under the EU Solidarity Fund criteria or 21.4% of total direct costs. This included damage to roads, infrastructure, the provision of temporary accommodation and the costs incurred by the rescue services.

The Commission informed the Department on 14th September 2010 that it is proposing financial aid amounting to 13.02m euro in response to Ireland's application to the EU Solidarity Fund. This amount will now have to be confirmed by the European Parliament and the European Council by way of an amending budget procedure.

These funds will be used to recoup some of the expenditure incurred by the State in responding to the emergency. As soon as the budget appropriations become available, consultation will begin with the relevant Departments and local authorities to determine how the money will be paid out.

Departmental Appointments

Joan Burton

Question:

211 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance if any open competitions were held for the advisory positions in his Department which have been filled recently by a number of economists; if he will set out worth of the annual or the per diems for each person (details supplied); the details of each contract and any other economist’s contract not listed or pending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37541/10]

The following Economists are on fixed-term employment contracts with my Department. These appointments were approved by the Government and were not the subject of open competitions.

Name

Title

Rate of pay

Details

Jim O’Leary

Senior Economist

€150,000 per annum

3 year fixed term contract.

Alan Ahearn

Special Adviser to Minister

€131,308 per annum

Appointment to terminate with that of the Minister.

The following economist has also been retained on a contract for service basis:

Name

Title

Rate of pay

Details

Colm McCarthy

Economist

€35,000

Temporary Appointment with the Review Group on State Assets & Liabilities.

Mr Phillip Lane and Mr Alan Matthews are not employed or retained by my Department. Mr Pat McArdle is also not employed by my Department but is providing advice to the Department of Finance Independent Review Panel. Mr McArdle's terms and conditions are currently being finalised. As the Deputy is aware, my Department is the subject of a Review process which will presumably have implications for the structure of the Department and its skill base, and which I hope will report before the end of the year.

EU Presidency

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

212 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance his views on the priorities of the Belgian Presidency of the European Union, in particular that the financial crisis and its impact means moving towards a more economic form of Government [36095/10]

As President of the Council of the EU, Belgium's role mainly consists of organising and managing the work of each Council configuration, including the ECOFIN Council, through its competent Ministers. Under Lisbon Treaty rules, Belgium forms part of the Trio Presidency with Spain and Hungary and would have collaborated with both these member states in the formulation of their 18-month Trio Presidency Programme. The Presidency of the Council ensures that the Council runs smoothly, chairs and directs discussions, tries to reconcile divergent points of view and formulates proposals for compromises so that decisions can be taken. The Presidency also plays an important role in negotiations with the other institutions of the Union, especially the European Parliament which, like the Council, has to give its assent to most European legislation. Belgium acknowledges in its Presidency Programme that the financial crisis and economic downturn and the related deterioration in public finances now require the Stability and Growth Pact to be strengthened. Accordingly, the priorities of the Belgian Presidency include ensuring progress on measures aimed at reinforcing the Pact, improving economic governance and broadening macroeconomic surveillance. This is being pursued through the high level Task Force, chaired by President Van Rompuy which was established by the European Council in March 2010, and through the work of the Eurogroup, the ECOFIN Council and the European Commission. Proposals in this area include strengthening the Stability and Growth Pact, improving economic governance and broadening the EU's macroeconomic surveillance. This work has been informed by the Communications on enhancing economic policy co-ordination published by the European Commission on 12 May and 30 June 2010 and by the related legislative proposals which it published on September 29. These latter proposals are subject to the normal process of consultation with national parliaments and with the European Parliament. The Van Rompuy Task Force is due to report to the European Council of 28-29 October.

I support the work of the Task Force and the broad consensus that improvements are needed in the economic governance of the EU, taking account of the EU's legal framework and the circumstances and challenges facing individual Member States. Ireland is contributing to discussions in this area and I look forward to the forthcoming report of the Task Force.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

213 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of his Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37570/10]

In response to the Deputy's question the following bodies were established under the aegis of my Department in the period 2007- 2010. The National Asset Management Agency

The National Asset Management Agency was established on 21 December 2009. It's budget for 2010 is €124m (excluding due diligence costs which will be recovered from Participating Institutions), but indications are that actual expenditure will be significantly less than budgeted. This is in part due to the timing of the loan transfers.

Commission of Investigation into the banking sector in Ireland

A Commission of Investigation into the banking sector in Ireland was established under the Commission of Investigations Act 2004 by Government Order on 21 September 2010. While the Commission is independent in the performance of its functions and does not as such fall under the aegis of my Department, the Minister for Finance is responsible for overseeing relevant administrative matters and the allocation of funding to the Commission. A provision of €2 million towards the costs of the Commission has been provided for in my Department's Vote for 2010.

State Companies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

214 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the new State-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of his Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37585/10]

In September 2009 Anglo Irish Bank was nationalised. Anglo Irish Bank does not publish a figure for turnover. In the 15 month period to 31 December 2009 the total operating income as published in the 2009 annual accounts amounted to €2,774 m.

Tax Code

Richard Bruton

Question:

215 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if there are conditions governing the letting of accommodation which receives tax relief as student accommodation to persons who are not students; if the eligibility for continuing taxable relief is jeopardised by such practices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37673/10]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that in order to avail of the tax relief to which the Deputy is referring, the accommodation must, among other requirements, be used for letting to students in accordance with the relevant guidelines. These guidelines are issued by the Minister for Education and Skills, in consultation with the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government with the consent of the Minister for Finance. The original guidelines were issued in 1999 with a further clarification document issuing in July 2005. In order to comply with the guidelines, the accommodation must be let to the student or to the institution for on-letting to the student, for the academic year. A student means a person pursuing a course of full-time study in the institution. The development itself must be certified by an educational institution for use by its own students. One or more institutions can certify a single development.

The July 2005 clarification document modified the "academic year" requirement to allow for a limited number of situations in which the lease may be for a period of less than an academic year. These are where the development is not completed until after the start of the academic year, the course duration is short or where a lease is unexpectedly terminated during the year.

The accommodation may be let to non-students for periods outside of the academic year, which generally means the Summer months, without loss of entitlement to the relief. Apart from this, only students from the certifying educational institution may occupy the accommodation. Surplus accommodation during the academic year cannot be occupied by non-students or by students from other, non-certifying educational institutions.

Michael Noonan

Question:

216 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for Finance when he will sign the ministerial order regarding the leisure sector arising from section 117(2)(b) of the 2010 Finance Act; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37674/10]

Section 117 of the Finance Act 2010 included provision to make public bodies subject to VAT with effect from 1 July 2010 in accordance with the European Court of Justice ruling against Ireland of 16 July 2009 in Case C-554/07. In summary, the VAT Act 1972 was amended to provide that public bodies, including local authorities, are made subject to VAT. More specifically, they are subject to VAT where they engage (i) in economic activities; (ii) in any activities as outlined in Annex I of the EU VAT Directive, unless the activity is carried out on such a small scale as to be negligible; and (iii) in the case of their regulatory capacity as a public authority, when their treatment as non-taxable could lead to a distortion of competition. These are subject of course to the activity not being otherwise exempted from VAT. During the debate on the Finance Bill, I undertook to look again at the provisions, in particular in relation to the supply of community and sports facilities by public bodies, especially local authorities. Accordingly I amended the legislation to provide that the new VAT rules for public bodies, in relation to the supply of sports and community-type facilities, will be commenced by order, rather than on 1 July 2010. This is to allow for a more complete examination of the issues, including an analysis of how the new rules might best be implemented. In the circumstances, I have no immediate plans to introduce an Order to that effect.

National Solidarity Bond

Niall Collins

Question:

217 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Finance the amount of money invested to date in the national solidarity bond; the number of persons who have made investments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37701/10]

In Budget 2010, I announced the Government's intention to launch a National Solidarity Bond, the purpose of which is to allow citizens an opportunity to invest and provide money to the State to stimulate economic recovery and to assist in the maintenance and creation of employment. The necessary legislative basis was provided in this year's Finance Act and the Bond was launched on Tuesday 4 May. I am informed by the National Treasury Management Agency that, at close of business on Monday, 18 October, a total of some €265 million had been invested in the Bond by almost 12,000 customers.

Tax Reliefs

Niall Collins

Question:

218 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Finance the total value of refunds claimed by registered charities from Revenue under section 848 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 in the years 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37705/10]

Section 848A of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 provides for a scheme for tax relief on donations to eligible charities. Certain other approved bodies are also eligible to relief under section 848A and a list of these bodies as well as the conditions which they must satisfy in order to be approved are included in Schedule 26A of the Act. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners who administer the scheme of relief that their records do not differentiate between refunds to eligible charities and refunds to other approved bodies.

The following table sets out the payments made by Revenue to charities and other approved bodies under the scheme for the years requested.

Year

Amount

€m

2010 to date

24.9

2009

31.6

2008

29.5

2007

25.3

2006

28.5

2005

15.6

Water and Sewerage Schemes

Brian Hayes

Question:

219 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Finance with responsibility for the Office of Public Works the amount of the allocated €16.8 million for arterial drainage which has been spent to date in 2010; the amount that was allocated and spent for same; the rivers that were dealt with under this scheme in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37717/10]

The Office of Public Works is responsible for maintaining those channels that form part of drainage schemes carried out by the Office under the Arterial Drainage Acts. The country is currently divided into three administrative regions, East, West and South West, for the purposes of these maintenance operations.

Of the allocation of €16.8m provided in the OPW Vote for maintenance of arterial drainage schemes this year, a total of € 12.43m was spent to the end of September. This figure includes expenditure on studies and other measures to ensure compliance with all environmental regulations and minimising negative impacts on habitats in the carrying out of maintenance activities. The schemes on which works were carried out are given below. The 2010 maintenance programme is continuing.

Region

Total Spend to end September, 2010

Schemes Maintained

Length of channels maintained (metres)

East

Boyne

285,572

Glyde & Dee

63,304

Monaghan

62,192

Inny

127,820

Brosna

91,801

South East

33,627

Broadmeadow

10,366

Other

1,500

€4.212m

Total:

676,182

South West

Feale

73,663

Maine

27,561

Deel

57,269

Shannon Embankments North

24,927

Shannon Embankments South

43,983

Maigue

73,312

Mulkear/Groody

7,462

Killimor

60,384

Nenagh

26,134

Dunmanway

3,815

Ouvane

200

€3.883m

Total:

398,710

West

Bonet

14,950

Boyle

11,933

Corrib Clare

143,545

Corrib Headford

27,457

Corrib Mask

32,904

Donegal Group

26,074

Moy

153,367

€4.062m

Total:

410,230

All Regions

€0.27

Environmental Issues

Grant Payments

Joe McHugh

Question:

220 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding a grant (details supplied) recently allocated by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37718/10]

The allocation referred to by the Deputy was made by the Office of Public Works under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works & Studies Scheme, which I introduced in 2009 to provide funding to local authorities to address localised flooding problems in their administrative areas. Under the scheme, local authorities were invited to submit applications for funding for proposed mitigation measures that are economically viable and environmentally sustainable, up to a maximum cost of €500,000 in each instance. A maximum allocation of 90% of the total cost of a project is available, with the balance of the cost being met by the Local Authority.

Donegal County Council submitted a number of funding applications under the scheme this year. The application submitted by the Council in respect of the flooding problem in Burnfoot, which put the estimated cost of the proposed work at €75,000, was assessed by OPW engineers and was found to meet the eligibility criteria. A sum of €67,500, representing 90% of the estimated cost of the work, was allocated to the Council.

It would be open to Donegal County Council to submit further applications under the scheme.

Financial Services Regulation

Tom Hayes

Question:

221 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 101 of 8 July 2010 if the report referred to from the Mortgage Arrears and Personal Debt Expert Group detailing recommendations on personal debt and mortgage arrears, which he expected to receive at the end of September, has been received; the recommendations that are contained in that report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37719/10]

In view of the complexity of the various issues involved, I have agreed with the Chair, Mr. Hugh Cooney, that the Group should take somewhat longer over its task. It is now envisaged that the Group will Report in the coming weeks. I must emphasise that the Group has not yet taken final decisions on its recommendations, nor has any recommendation been submitted to Government. I would add that, in parallel to the work of the Expert Group, action has been taken to make progress on the recommendations in the Group's first Report. For example, the revised Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears, through which many of the Group's recommendations from the first Report are to be put into effect, has been through a public consultation process and the Financial Regulator hopes to finalise and publish it shortly. Work on the other recommendations is also in train.

Illicit Trade in Tobacco

Michael Noonan

Question:

222 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for Finance the seizures and prosecutions arising to date in 2010 from the Revenue Commissioners’ Operation Downstream; the way these figures compare with operation activities in 2008 and 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37724/10]

Michael Noonan

Question:

223 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the Revenue Commissioners’ analysis of the economics of tobacco here; the terms of reference, methodology, persons conducting and objectives of this study; the anticipated completion date; if it will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37725/10]

Michael Noonan

Question:

224 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for Finance the number of persons who have telephoned Revenue’s cigarette smuggling hotline since its introduction; the number of these telephone calls which have directly led to cigarette seizures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37726/10]

Michael Noonan

Question:

225 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether Ireland has the highest level of cigarette smuggling in all of the 27 EU countries; from the information which he has received both from secondary and primary sources, where, in his view, Ireland ranks compared to other EU countries and globally for cigarette smuggling proportionate to our population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37727/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 222 to 225, inclusive, together.

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners, who are responsible for the collection of tobacco products tax, and for tackling the illicit trade in cigarettes and tobacco products, that the figures for seizures and prosecutions arising from "Operation Downstream" from January 2008 to September 30th 2010 are as follows:

Year

Number of detections

Quantity of cigarettes seized

Quantity of tobacco seized

2008

128

6.44m

Nil

2009

284

9.74m

Nil

2010 (to 30th Sept)

278

12.22m

1,064 kgs

Year

Number of prosecutions

Fines imposed

Number of Custodial sentences

2008

4

7,000

1

2009

19

33,150

6

2010 (to 30th Sept)

30

74,300

9

The Revenue Commissioners launched Operation Downstream in December 2007. It specifically targets the sale of illegal tobacco products at inland locations. As part of this ongoing operation, Revenue enforcement officers regularly conduct both intelligence-driven and random checks at shops, markets, and other points of retail sale, as well as private and commercial premises. The operation forms an important part of Revenue's strategy to tackle the problem of illicit trade in tobacco products.

As part of Operation Downstream, 95 seizures amounting to 2.04m cigarettes and 195kgs tobacco were made at inland locations in the course of a specific two-week national tobacco operation, which took place in July 2010.

In relation to Revenue's illegal cigarettes hotline, I am advised that 121 calls have been received to date since its introduction in July 2010. A total of 8 calls have contributed directly or indirectly to seizures of illicit cigarettes, and enquiries are ongoing in a number of other cases.

With regard to comparisons between the levels of smuggling in Ireland and other EU states, I am informed that there is no internationally recognised method for precisely determining the levels of tobacco smuggling in any one country. However, on the basis of a 2009 survey carried out independently on behalf of the Revenue Commissioners and the Office of Tobacco Control, Revenue estimates that approximately 20% of cigarettes consumed in the State had not been taxed in this jurisdiction. Revenue would further tentatively estimate that this figure of 20% comprises 14% illicit product and 6% legal cross-border purchases.

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that as part of its obligations under a legally binding tobacco agreement signed with the European Anti Fraud Office (OLAF) and the Member States a report estimating the size of the illicit tobacco trade has been commissioned by a major international cigarette manufacturer annually since 2007. This report has not been published nor has it been made available to Member States. Each Member State is given information relating only to itself, and on a strictly confidential basis.

Any analysis of illicit tobacco movements must take account of a variety of factors including population, geographical location, size of the illicit market, level of taxation, price in neighbouring jurisdictions etc. A significant factor is whether or not the country is a source, transit or destination country. Ireland is considered to be both a transit and a destination country. For example, the brands seized under "Operation Samhna", where more than 120 million cigarettes were seized in October 2009, would indicate that this shipment was not intended for the Irish market.

I am also informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the European Anti Fraud Office (OLAF) has a special unit entitled OLAF Task Group Cigarettes, which co-ordinates both international operations and other countermeasures undertaken by the authorities of the Member States against cigarette smuggling. OLAF also maintains a database of cigarette seizures reported by the authorities of the Member States. In this regard, the number of cigarettes seized by Ireland in 2009 was 9th in the table of seizures. Comparative data published by the World Customs Organisation in relation only to very large seizures, shows Ireland as the 6th and 13th highest respectively out of 18 countries in Western Europe for the quantities of cigarettes seized and the numbers of seizures.

I am satisfied that overall Ireland performs very well in relation to cigarette seizures. However, given that Ireland is a transit country for tobacco smugglers, simple extrapolation from the volume of seizures of tobacco products to estimate the scale of the illicit tobacco trade in the domestic market is, in my view, not valid.

The problem of tobacco smuggling is a global one and requires a very high level of international co-operation. In this regard Revenue's Customs Service works very closely with enforcement agencies throughout the E.U. and with OLAF. This high level of co-operation has resulted in many successful detections of illicit products and in the prosecution of those responsible.

It was my privilege last month to open an international conference in Dublin co-hosted by Revenue Commissioners and OLAF on the illicit tobacco trade. The conference, which was the first of its kind, brought investigators and prosecutors from all 27 Member States together with their counterparts from law enforcement agencies from across the U.S.A.

In relation to the economics of tobacco research project, this is being conducted by economists in Revenue's Research and Analytics Branch. The research is an econometric analysis of the price elasticity of demand for taxed cigarettes in Ireland based on time series data. The econometric model measures the sensitivity of cigarette demand to a variety of economic and social factors. The current research findings are in draft form and are being considered by the Department of Finance and the Tax Strategy Group in the context of the Budget. I am advised that the Revenue Commissioners intend to publish the research in due course.

In recent years, Revenue has signed Memoranda of Understanding with two of the main cigarette manufacturers, ITL and JTI, to further co-operation in relation to the illicit tobacco trade. In addition, Revenue meets regularly with the trade association representing the leading tobacco companies as well as the four major global manufacturers.

Water Pollution

Michael Ahern

Question:

226 Deputy Michael Ahern asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the workings of the Office of Public Works working group regarding an organisation (details supplied) in County Cork; if the working group has taken note of recent reports in a newspaper (details supplied) concerning fears in the Cobh area that the condition of the site maybe the cause of the high rate of cancer in the Cobh area; the position regarding the deliberations of the OPW working group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37732/10]

The Working Group, established by the Government, is looking at the future use of Haulbowline. The remit of the Working Group does not include matters relating to the contamination of the site or matters relating to remediation or containment measures on the site. Such matters will be considered in light of Government's consideration of the recommendations of the Group as to the future use of the site.

Valuation of Property

John Deasy

Question:

227 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Finance if funding is available to the valuation office to carry out a full revision of rateable valuations of properties in Waterford city and county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37768/10]

The Valuation Act 2001 which came into effect on 2nd May, 2002, provides for the revaluation of all commercial and industrial property in the State. The Commissioner of Valuation has sole responsibility for all valuation matters under the Act, which includes the implementation of the revaluation programme. This is a major project in nature and scale, given that such a nationwide exercise has not been undertaken since the mid-1800's. The programme began in November 2005 in the South Dublin County Council area and has since been rolled out to the areas covered by Fingal and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Councils. In the next phase, it is intended to roll out the programme to further local authority areas in the coming months and the necessary process of consultation, as provided for under the Act, is underway in Dublin City and in the local authorities of Waterford, i.e. Waterford City and County Council and Dungarvan Town Council. Preliminary work is also underway on the revaluation of Limerick City.

The purpose of revaluation is to bring more equity, fairness and transparency into the local authority rating system and, following completion of the initial national revaluation programme, I am satisfied that there will be a much closer and uniform relationship between rental values of property and their commercial rates liability and that this relationship will thereafter be maintained by means of the recurring revaluations provided for in the Act.

The funding for the revaluation project in general, which includes the Waterford phase of the project, is being provided in the normal way through the annual Valuation Office Vote allocation. At this stage, it is not envisaged that additional resources will be required to undertake the project which is an integral part of the Valuation Office work programme.

Vehicle Insurance

Paul Connaughton

Question:

228 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Finance the reason a vehicle that had been written off by an insurance company as being economically beyond repair cannot be insured again as it has been restored to a proper standard, that is NCT tested; if there are any circumstances in which such a vehicle would be allowed back on the road in view of its excellent state of restoration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37902/10]

The Financial Services Ombudsman is a Statutory Officer, charged with investigating complaints from the public against all regulated financial service providers. This would include complaints against insurance providers. However, as the Financial Services Ombudsman is independent and impartial, it is solely at his discretion whether or not to accept jurisdiction on a complaint. Each complaint is taken on a case per case basis. An insurance company's refusal to offer a motor insurance quotation would ordinarily not be sufficient grounds to warrant an investigation by the Financial Services Ombudsman. The decision by an insurance provider to decline a quotation to a potential consumer is a commercial decision by that insurance company that the Financial Services Ombudsman would not question, unless there were grounds that such a decision to decline cover was unreasonable or discriminatory in the circumstances. In essence, the insurance provider may feel the risk is too great to insure that individual.

However, the Insurance Information Federation operates an agreement known as the ‘ Declined Cases Agreement’. This is an agreement which is adhered to by all motor insurers in Ireland. Under this agreement, the insurance market will not refuse to provide motor insurance to an individual seeking insurance, if he/she has approached at least three insurers and has not been able to obtain cover from them. In general, the insurer first approached will be required to provide the individual with a quote.

Where an individual has held a policy within the previous three years, the insurance company concerned is obliged to provide the individual with a quotation. Again, this is subject to the proviso that refusals have been received from three insurers (of which the previous insurer may be one). The only grounds on which an insurer can refuse cover are where to provide insurance would be contrary to the public interest. The Declined Cases Agreement is administered by a Committee made up of representatives of each of the companies which have signed up to participate in the agreement. The Committee also includes a representative of the Consumers’ Association of Ireland and the Financial Services Ombudsman Bureau as external observers. If it is impossible to identify which insurer was the first approached for a quote, then a rota of insurers comes into effect and the Committee allocates the risk to the insurer on the rota. The Committee can also decide whether a quote is so high or the terms so excessive as to make the quote tantamount to a refusal, in which case it will review the matter.

If a consumer wishes to seek more information regarding the Declined Cases Agreement, the Insurance Information Federation may be contacted directly.

Conversely, if it is the case where the consumer is unhappy with the valuation placed on his or her motor vehicle after e.g. the car was deemed to be beyond economic repair, this is a matter which can be investigated by the Financial Services Ombudsman. The Ombudsman's findings are legally binding on both parties, subject to an appeal to the High Court. However, as pointed out previously, the decision as to whether or not to accept jurisdiction on a matter is solely at the discretion of the Ombudsman, particularly if there is an alternative option available to either the complainant or the financial service provider. Any queries regarding making a complaint against a financial service provider should be directed to the Financial Services Ombudsman Bureau.

I have no responsibility with regard to the NCT; nor have I responsibility with regard to whether or not motor vehicles may be allowed on public roads.

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

229 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide details of the number of civil servants in each Department who are currently e-working; his plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if he will provide details of the numbers of civil servants he would hope to have e-working by end 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38197/10]

There are currently no staff e-working in my Department. A pilot scheme did operate in the Department between 2005 and 2007. For a variety of reasons, the scheme was not pursued on a full-time basis. However, having regard to Government policy in this area, improving work/life balance and reducing time spent commuting, my Department is willing to consider e-working proposals, where practical and appropriate and in the context of overall administrative costs.

Medical Cards

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

230 Deputy Edward O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork [37097/10]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Hospital Services

Terence Flanagan

Question:

231 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37105/10]

Finian McGrath

Question:

260 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [37280/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 231 and 260 together.

A new ward block to replace existing accommodation is being developed at St Vincent's University Hospital. This facility will provide single room en-suite inpatient accommodation (100 rooms) and a dedicated day unit for people with Cystic Fibrosis, including 10 single day treatment rooms with en-suite sanitary facilities. The unit will accommodate many other patients whose medical requirements necessitate single en-suite facilities and reflects best practice in terms of infection control.

I am pleased to be able to inform the Deputies that the contract for construction of the new facility was signed last week. I further understand that the site has been handed over to the contractor and that work can now commence. It is expected that construction of the facility will take 18 months.

Martin Ferris

Question:

232 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive results; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37107/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Finian McGrath

Question:

233 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied) [37113/10]

Decisions in relation to appropriate advice for patients are matters for the clinicians involved in their particular case to make. These decisions follow diagnosis of the symptoms of their patients and best clinical practice. Patients should always seek and be mindful of the advice of their clinicians.

Long-Term Illness Scheme

James Reilly

Question:

234 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will consider including narcolepsy on the list of long-term illness scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37137/10]

There are no plans to extend the list of eligible conditions covered by the Long Term Illness Scheme.

Under the Drugs Payment Scheme no individual or family pays more than €120 per calendar month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. The scheme is easy to use and significantly reduces the cost burden for families and individuals incurring ongoing expenditure on medicines.

In addition, people who cannot, without undue hardship, arrange for the provision of medical services for themselves and their dependants may be entitled to a medical card. In the assessment process, the Health Service Executive can take into account medical costs incurred by an individual or a family. Those who are not eligible for a medical card may still be able to avail of a GP visit card, which covers the cost of general practice consultations.

Services for People with Disabilities

Jack Wall

Question:

235 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an appeal against the decision to refuse an application for mobility allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37156/10]

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.

Health Services

Liz McManus

Question:

236 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the inadequate podiatry services available to persons with diabetes in County Wicklow; if she will provide a local service in County Wicklow as part of a national foot screening programme in view of reported figures of €6 million being spent between 2005 and 2009 in County Wicklow treating preventable diabetic foot disease; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37163/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Hospital Waiting Lists

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

237 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of persons on rheumatology waiting lists in the Cork area for consultant appointments and for follow up treatment and the steps she will take to deal with delays [37186/10]

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

238 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of persons on neurology waiting lists in the Cork area for consultant appointments and for follow up treatment and the steps she will take to deal with delays. [37187/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 237 and 238 together.

The management of hospital services generally, including out-patient waiting lists, is a matter for the Health Service Executive and the individual hospitals concerned. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular issues raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have these issues investigated and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Health Services

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

239 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if there are plans for cutbacks in the D-Doc services in an area (details supplied) in Dublin 15. [37195/10]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

240 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of doctors currently working for D-Doc; the numbers of drivers and vehicles that are currently in use for D-Doc; the number of patients treated in each of the past three years; her plans to expand this vital service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37197/10]

As the information sought by the Deputy is not provided by the Health Service Executive (HSE) to my Department as a matter of routine, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address these matters and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Eating Disorders

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

241 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health and Children the treatment currently available to citizens who are suffering from an eating disorder including anorexia or bulimia; the number of beds currently available in the public health system to facilitate the treatment of citizens with an eating disorder; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37203/10]

As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Inter-Country Adoptions

Charles Flanagan

Question:

242 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children the current situation regarding inter-country adoption with specific reference to Vietnam; if she expects such adoptions to recommence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37204/10]

The Adoption Act, 2010 gives force of law to the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Inter-country Adoption. The new legislation, which incorporates the provisions of the Hague Convention, is designed to provide a framework to ensure that appropriate procedures have been followed and that all adoptions are effected in the best interests of the child. Future intercountry adoption arrangements will be governed by the terms of the Adoption Act, 2010, once commenced.

The papers for the ratification of the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption were deposited with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands on 28th July 2010. In accordance with Article 46.1 of the Convention, the Convention enters into force for Ireland on 1 November 2010.

It is my understanding that the Vietnamese National Assembly has recently passed legislation which should allow for a move to ratification of the Hague Convention. In the event that both Ireland and Vietnam ratify the Convention there is every reason to expect that adoptions from Vietnam could re-commence subject to the provisions of the Convention and the legislation in both Countries being met in this regard.

As both countries will have ratified the Hague Convention there will be no need for a formal bi-lateral agreement with regard to inter-country adoption. At the time of ratification Ireland and Vietnam will each designate a Central Authority to discharge the duties which are imposed by the Hague Convention. Administrative arrangements will be a matter for the Adoption Authority, as Ireland's designated Central Authority, to make with the designated Vietnamese Central Authority.

Hospital Services

Pat Breen

Question:

243 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. [37210/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Health Services

Pat Breen

Question:

244 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children when an application will be processed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37215/10]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Medical Certificates

Jack Wall

Question:

245 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application for a primary medical certificate in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37222/10]

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.

Hospitals Building Programme

Billy Timmins

Question:

246 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37223/10]

In late 2005 the HSE undertook a review of tertiary paediatric services.McKinsey and Company were engaged to advise on the future strategic organisation of tertiary paediatric services. The resulting report — "Children's Health First" — recommended that the new paediatric hospital should be located alongside a leading academic teaching hospital in Dublin in order to provide a more comprehensive healthcare service with improved clinical outcomes for all patients. The principle of location alongside a leading academic teaching hospital, in line with widespread international best practice, enjoyed widespread support.

McKinsey states that "the hospitals and experts cite many benefits from co-locations that support sub specialty critical mass". The McKinsey report refers to the Bristol Inquiry, in particular Recommendation 178, which states that "Children's acute hospital services should ideally be located in a children's hospital, which should be physically as close as possible to an acute general hospital". In addition McKinsey refers to the Scottish Review of Paediatric Services 2004, which specified that, “Children’s specialist acute services should be co-located with adult, maternity and neonatal services”. Of 17 hospitals examined by McKinsey, 15 were co-located with adult services, one was co-located with women’s services only, and only one — Great Ormond Street was entirely standalone. A joint Task Group (representative of the Department of Health and Children, the Office of Public Works and the HSE) was established in February 2006. This Task Group carried out extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including the three existing paediatric hospitals, the three maternity hospitals and external experts.

The High Level Framework Brief for the new hospital, prepared by Rawlinson Kelly & Whittlestone Ltd (RKW) was completed in October 2008. The RKW Report was informed by clinical and architectural experts from major children's hospitals in Toronto, Philadelphia and Manchester. The Report includes a detailed assessment of capacity and concludes that the site adjoining the Mater Hospital can accommodate all the requirements of the new hospital and still allow expansion capacity beyond the year 2021. The Brief includes provision for all in-patients to be accommodated in single en-suite rooms and on-site accommodation for parents and families. The designs for the new children's hospital have demonstrated that the site at the Mater campus meets the requirements for children, young people and their families.

The new children's hospital will play a central role in an integrated network of paediatric services across Ireland. This development will fundamentally change and improve the provision of paediatric healthcare in Ireland because merging the three existing hospitals (at Crumlin, Temple Street and Tallaght) into a single hospital structure will ensure a critical mass of specialised skills to provide highly complex treatment and care to sick children. In addition an Ambulatory and Urgent Care Centre will be established at Tallaght. The services to be provided will include urgent care consultations, outpatient appointments and day surgery.

On 12 October 2010, the Faculty of Paediatrics of the Royal College of Physicians in Ireland, which is the authorative professional body representing paediatricians in Ireland, publicly supported the new hospital and recommended that it should proceed as a matter of urgency.

Dr Ronnie Pollock of MPA Healthcare, London, was asked by the parent's group "the New Crumlin Hospital Group" whether the new hospital on the proposed site could provide the international standard of excellence in tertiary healthcare for children.Dr Pollack replied that "it most certainly can. The synergy created by assembling some of the best clinical and research skills in the country on a single site will create the environment for Ireland to progress further in international standing with measurable benefits for children and adults".

The Government is committed to proceeding with this important project at this location.

Nursing Homes

Billy Timmins

Question:

247 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37224/10]

There were 10,153 public nursing homes beds in 2005. This figure includes beds designated for both short-term and long-term residential care.

Infectious Diseases

Deirdre Clune

Question:

248 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Health and Children if medicine required by persons who contracted TB as a result of an outbreak in a school in County Cork will be subject to the new prescription charge; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37227/10]

Deirdre Clune

Question:

249 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Health and Children if the cost of TB medicine required by persons who contracted TB as a result of an outbreak in a school in County Cork will have to be paid by the families themselves or if the State will cover this cost; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37228/10]

I propose to takes Questions Nos. 248 and 249 together.

Under the Infectious Diseases Regulations 1981 (S.I. No 390 of 1981), patients receiving treatment by the HSE for infectious diseases are not liable for charges.

The Health (Amendment)(No 2) Act 2010 provides for the payment of a charge of 50 cent by persons with full eligibility (GMS patients) per item on prescriptions filled by Community Pharmacies. These charges came into effect on 1st October, 2010.

To adhere to the Infectious Diseases Regulations which ensure the continued free treatment of TB patients and those with other infectious diseases, the HSE has been asked to put appropriate arrangements in place in regard to the provision of such treatment and dispensing of medicine to ensure that the prescription charge is not applicable.

Prescription Charges

Deirdre Clune

Question:

250 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Health and Children the categories of persons, medicines and illnesses excluded from the new prescription charge; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37229/10]

Medical card holders are required to pay a 50c charge for medicines and other prescription items supplied to them by community pharmacists, subject to a cap of €10 per month for each person or family. Prescription charges do not apply to children in the care of the HSE or to methadone supplied to patients participating in the Methadone Treatment Scheme. There are no plans to exempt any other products or categories of patients from the charge.

Children in Care

Billy Timmins

Question:

251 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37230/10]

Aftercare is recognised as key element to achieving positive outcomes for young people leaving care, aiming to assist young people in care in bridging the transition from care to independent adult life in the community.

Aftercare is provided for under Section 45 of the Child Care Act, 1991, which states: "45.—(1) (a) Where a child leaves the care of a health board, the board may, in accordance with subsection (2), assist him for so long as the board is satisfied as to his need for assistance and, subject to paragraph (b), he has not attained the age of 21 years. (b) Where a health board is assisting a person in accordance with subsection (2)(b), and that person attains the age of 21 years, the board may continue to provide such assistance until the completion of the course of education in which he is engaged.

Consideration has been given to the legal position with regard to the provisions of aftercare services, having regard to the existing legislative provisions of the Childcare Act 1991. In relation to calls from agencies to place Aftercare on a statutory footing, i.e. to amend Section 45 of the Child Care Act, 1991 from a "may" to a "shall", the legal advice is that the Act creates a statutory power, and the HSE, as recipient of this power, must put itself in a position where it can exercise the power should the need arise. There is therefore no need to amend the Act as has been suggested.

In order to ensure that there was no doubt about the matter and to emphasise the importance of aftercare services, in accordance with Section 45(4) of the Child Care Act, I wrote to the HSE in June clarifying the issue and directing the HSE to formulate and implement aftercare policies.

In accordance with the findings of the Report of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse, 2009 the Government prepared an Implementation Plan in July 2009 and funding of €1.0m was set aside by the HSE in its 2010 Service Plan, for the development of aftercare services in 2010. The HSE are in the process of recruiting ten additional Aftercare workers effective from 1st November, 2010 and have provided funding to the Irish Association of Young People in Care (IAYPIC) to develop a national advocacy and support service for young people in care, leaving care and aftercare.

My Office has developed proposals to ensure the implementation of Recommendation No. 16 of the Implementation Plan and a National Aftercare Policy is currently being developed to be made widely available to the relevant care staff, service providers and will be made available on the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs website.

Medical Cards

Michael Ring

Question:

252 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will issue on a medical card appeal in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [37231/10]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Rare Diseases

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

253 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if work has commenced on an action plan for rare diseases; if a lead person has been identified in her Department to develop such a plan; if and when consultation will take place with representatives of patients who have been diagnosed with a rare disease; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37236/10]

Dan Neville

Question:

281 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children when the Government will honour its commitment to introduce the European Council recommendation that called on national Governments to develop and implement strategies for the treatment and care of persons living with rare diseases. [37404/10]

Denis Naughten

Question:

282 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to produce a national strategy for rare diseases; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37405/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 253, 281 and 282 together.

The 2009 EU Council Recommendations on Rare Diseases was supported by Ireland and this calls for Member States to establish national plans for rare diseases before the end of 2013. The European Commission is supporting the Europlan Project which aims to assist countries in the development of their national plans. A Europlan national conference in Ireland has been organised for December 2010 and this will involve relevant stakeholders as well as the Department of Health and Children and the HSE. This conference will contribute to the consultative process in the development of a rare disease strategy. The Department will also contribute to the work of the EU Committee of Experts on Rare Diseases which is scheduled to commence before the end of the year. Preliminary work has commenced on the development of a national action plan and this will continue in 2011.

Health Services

Olwyn Enright

Question:

254 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children if her Department plans to roll out a local podiatry service as part of a national foot screening programme and local service for the treatment of diabetic foot complications at a hospital (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37246/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

255 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the current podiatry services available to diabetic patients in the Laois and Offaly areas; the position regarding any future investment in both a hospital and community diabetes podiatry service to provide a foot screening programme and follow up services to diabetic patients in Laois and Offaly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37247/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

John O'Mahony

Question:

256 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made in respect of persons (details supplied) in County Mayo. [37260/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

Health Service Allowances

Noel Coonan

Question:

257 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the reasons for the delay in processing payments under the back to school clothing and footwear scheme in the Health Service Executive Mid West region; the number of north Tipperary applicants awaiting decision; when it is envisioned all applicants will be paid under the scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37261/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

Child Care Services

Charles Flanagan

Question:

258 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of separated children currently resident in hostels; where these hostels are located; the number of staff assigned to each hostel; the role of each staff member; the personnel on site outside office hours; the number of separated children that have been placed in foster care to date in 2010; the number of separated children that have been placed in children’s residential centres to date in 2010; which children’s residential centres have separated children been placed in; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37263/10]

The immediate and the ongoing needs of separated children seeking asylum (SCSA) relating to accommodation, medical and social needs as well as their application for refugee status are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive (HSE) in accordance with the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) and the Child Care Act, 1991. Where children are identified by An Garda Síochána at the point of entry, the circumstances are investigated and if there are any concerns about the welfare of the child, they are placed into the care of the HSE.

The HSE has developed a national policy on the standards and services to be provided to separated children seeking asylum. The policy seeks to achieve equity and equality of services to separated children seeking asylum vis a vis indigenous or resident children and to ensure that there is no differentiation of care provision, care practices, care priorities, standards or protocols.

The HSE is currently progressing plans to move to a more comprehensive model of care for these children. It is recognised that each child should be accommodated in a service either a foster care or residential placement that meets all relevant standards as well as providing the necessary security and grounding in the community that is appropriate for their needs. It is the intention of the Health Service Executive to phase out the hostel type of care arrangement with the provision of care for separated children seeking asylum being provided on a national basis with each child cared for in a registered care placement or equivalent. The HSE has appointed a senior manager with responsibility for managing these changes and developments on a full time basis.

In January 2009, the HSE in co-operation with Refugee Integration Agency (operated by Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform) agreed a policy for the transfer of separated children into adult services once they reach the age of 18.

Hospitals Building Programme

Charles Flanagan

Question:

259 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children if a contract has been signed to build the National Children’s Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37264/10]

Plans for the new children's hospital at the Mater Hospital site are progressing. The National Paediatric Hospital Development Board is preparing to submit a formal application for planning permission to An Bórd Pleanála. Subject to planning permission being granted, construction of the new hospital is scheduled to commence in the fourth quarter of 2011. A contract for construction will be signed within this timescale.

Question No. 260 answered with Question No. 231.

Health Services

Jack Wall

Question:

261 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of podiatry services available under the Health Service Executive; the areas of such services; if such are available to medical card holders and if there is a waiting list for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37292/10]

Jack Wall

Question:

262 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the total spend by the Health Service Executive for podiatry services for each of the past three years; if she will provide a breakdown of such costs by area; her plans or those of the Health Service Executive to improve the service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37293/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 261 and 262 together.

As these are service matters, they have been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

National Diabetes Policy

Jack Wall

Question:

263 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the action if any she or her Department or the Health Service Executive has taken or proposes to take to address the concerns raised in the 2008 report of the Diabetes Advisory Group; the cost to date of such action; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37294/10]

The report referred to by the Deputy is a Health Service Executive report, and as the implementation of its recommendations are a service matter, the question has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

264 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of contracts held by her Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if she will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37304/10]

The Department's telecommunication system is provided by two companies. Details are as follows:

Type of Communication

Company

Type of Contract

Land Lines

Eircom

General

Data

Eircom

General

Mobile Phones

Vodafone

Framework Agreement

The position regarding the HSE and other agencies is a matter for the agencies themselves. My Department is requesting them to reply directly to the Deputy.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

265 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of contracts held by her Department and its agencies with energy providers; if she will to provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37319/10]

The Department's energy supply is provided by two companies. Details are as follows:

Energy Type

Company

Type of Contract

Electricity

Energia

Framework Agreement

Gas

Bord Gáis

Framework Agreement

The position regarding the HSE and other agencies is a matter for the agencies themselves. My Department is requesting them to reply directly to the Deputy.

National Diabetes Policy

Jack Wall

Question:

266 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the actions she or her Department or the Health Service Executive has taken or will take to address the rise in the number of persons with diabetes; if figures are available on an area basis regarding the rise in diabetes for each of the past three years; if these figures show a trend in relation to the type of the disease; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37325/10]

The issues relating to prevention and management of diabetes were addressed in the 2008 report of the Health Service Executive (HSE) Advisory Group on the subject. Earlier this year, a HSE National Diabetes Programme was established under the governance of their Quality and Clinical Care Directorate to progress a national diabetes plan. The plan has, as its core objective, delivery in the following five key actions:

To establish a National Diabetes Retinopathy Screening Service;

To establish a National Diabetes Register;

To progress foot care services nationally;

To facilitate integration of diabetes services between primary and secondary care, and

To develop strategies to improve diabetic control and risk reduction to prevent diabetic complications.

In relation to figures on diabetes on a regional basis and trends in the type of diabetes requested by the Deputy, this aspect of the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Medical Cards

Michael Ring

Question:

267 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ascertain from the Health Service Executive when a decision will be made on an appeal for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [37332/10]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Health Service Appeals

Michael Ring

Question:

268 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ascertain from the Health Service Executive West the number of appeals that were lodged with an appeals officer in 2009; the number that were dealt with and of those the number that were successful or unsuccessful, on a monthly basis in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37333/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

Michael Ring

Question:

269 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children to ascertain from the Health Service Executive West the length of time it is taking for appeals lodged with the appeals officer to be dealt with; the plans the HSE has to address the backlog of appeals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37334/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

Michael Ring

Question:

270 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children to ascertain from the Health Service Executive West the number of appeals lodged with the appeals officer for each month and to date in 2010; the categories of decision being appealed, such as medical cards or social welfare allowances; the number of those appeals that have been dealt with, and the number that were successful; the number of appeals currently outstanding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37335/10]

As the information sought by the Deputy is not provided by the Health Service Executive (HSE) to my Department as a matter of routine, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address these matters and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Michael Ring

Question:

271 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of appeals officers within Health Service Executive West dealing with appeals regarding medical cards, social welfare allowances and so on; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37336/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

Health Services

Joe McHugh

Question:

272 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will facilitate a patient who wishes to transfer from a location (details supplied) to a suitable facility in County Cork or County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37361/10]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus

Joe McHugh

Question:

273 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will respond to the findings of a report (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37363/10]

I had the honour of presenting the closing address to the World Annual Congress of the International Federation of Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus in Dublin in June of this year. I note that the recommendations contained in this report relate to work to be undertaken by the International Federation of Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus to support the Romanian Organisation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.

Adoption Services

Joe McHugh

Question:

274 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children the minimum age requirement for adoption from the USA; if this policy is consistent across all health board areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37366/10]

Section 33 of the Adoption Act 2010 provides for a minimum age of 21 at which an adoption order may be made or recognition given to an inter-country adoption effected outside the State. There is no upper age limit for eligibility to be assessed for inter-country adoption. However, prospective adoptive parents are assessed for eligibility and suitability to adopt a child. All applications for assessment to adopt are dealt with on a case-by-case basis by the HSE having regard to a range of factors including the prospective adoptive parent's capacity to safeguard the child throughout his or her childhood.

In regard to the USA, the legislation regarding age limits for prospective adoptive parents may differ from state to state, but if a sending country does have age limits, this would not be within the control of the Irish authorities.

Medical Cards

Michael Ring

Question:

275 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made by the Health Service Executive on an appeal for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [37374/10]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Joe Carey

Question:

276 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children the average processing time for medical card applications; the number of medical cards held by persons from County Clare; the number of medical card applications from County Clare currently awaiting a decision; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37388/10]

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has the operational and funding responsibility for the medical card and GP visit card benefits. It collates medical card and GP visit card data by county, age and gender. Therefore, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address this matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Hospitals Building Programme

Joe Carey

Question:

277 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress with regard to all capital development works pledged in respect of hospital reconfiguration in the mid-west region, including at Ennis, Nenagh and St. John’s hospitals and Limerick Regional Hospital; if the capital budget for the various developments is ring-fenced; when it is expected that these works will be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37392/10]

The Health Service Executive's capital plan currently covers the five year period 2010 — 2014. The Executive has published on its website details of the projects which it intends to deliver within this plan.

The management and delivery of the health capital programme is a service matter for the Health Service Executive and the question has therefore been referred to the Executive for an update on progress for the projects mentioned and for direct reply.

Hospital Services

Joe Carey

Question:

278 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason only one urologist is based in Limerick Regional Hospital when there is a requirement that six urologists be based in the mid-west region; when these posts will be filled; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37393/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Health Services

Willie Penrose

Question:

279 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will confirm she has received correspondence from a person (details supplied) which outlines matters of great personal concern; the steps she will take to improve the situation and deal with the matter raised therein; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37397/10]

Correspondence from the person referred to by the Deputy has been received in my office. The HSE has advised my Department that the individual in question has now undergone surgery and also that the Clinical Director at Galway University Hospitals has responded directly to this individual in relation to the concerns raised.

Nursing Homes Support Scheme

Michael McGrath

Question:

280 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an appeal relating to a nursing home support scheme decision (details supplied) in County Cork. [37401/10]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Questions Nos. 281 and 282 answered with Question No. 253.

Health Services

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

283 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied) in County Leitrim; if she will order a full investigation into the events, including the failure of the complaints system to provide a satisfactory outcome for the person; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37412/10]

The matter raised by the Deputy is one for the HSE in the first instance. My Department has therefore asked the Executive to examine the case and to respond directly to the Deputy in the matter.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

284 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when dental treatment will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37444/10]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Hospitals Building Programme

Catherine Byrne

Question:

285 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans for the existing Crumlin Children’s Hospital after 2016, when the new paediatric hospital is completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37556/10]

Mary Upton

Question:

291 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans that are in place for the existing children’s hospitals in the Dublin area following the provision of the new tertiary children’s hospital; if services will continue to be provided at the existing hospitals; if so, the nature of these services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37635/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 285 and 291 together.

It is widely accepted that the way to provide the best possible paediatric tertiary care most effectively is to provide a single national paediatric hospital alongside a major teaching hospital, bringing together all the medical and nursing expertise for complex conditions.

Services at Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin, National Children's Hospital Tallaght and the Children's University Hospital Temple Street will transfer to the new National Paediatric Hospital. Pending completion of the project, and to ensure the best possible services for children, the HSE will continue to finance the provision and development of services at each of the transferring hospitals. A Paediatric Hospitals Operations Group has been established for ongoing network management and enhanced integration of the three paediatric hospitals in advance of the transfer to the new paediatric hospital.

An Ambulatory and Urgent Care Centre will be provided at Tallaght Hospital as part of the National Paediatric Hospital development.

Neither the Crumlin nor Temple Street sites is owned by the State. The long term future of these facilities will be a matter for discussion between the two hospitals, the HSE and my Department.

Medical Cards

Catherine Byrne

Question:

286 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of chiropodists treating medical card patients and senior citizens in the Dublin area in 2007, 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37557/10]

With regard to the provision of chiropody services, as this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

287 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of her Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37572/10]

A total of five new exchequer funded agencies have been established by my Department during the years in question. The annual expenditure by these agencies is set out in the table below. A sixth agency, the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland was established on a statutory basis in 2007 and is self-funded.

Agency

2010 est

2009

2008

2007

Health Information & Quality Authority

14,757,000

11,100,000

14,800,000

6,389,000

National Cancer Screening Service*

11,000

57,300,000

42,452,000

30,419,000

Childrens’ Acts Advisory Board**

1,000

2,199,000

2,314,000

2,232,000

Health and Social Care Professionals Council

962,000

595,000

315,000

0

National Paediatric Hospital Development Board

14,000,000

11,627,000

4,487,000

20,000

*Subsumed into HSE during 2010.

**Subsumed into the Department of Health and Children on an administrative basis during 2010 pending abolition by legislation.

State Companies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

288 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children the new state-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of her Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37587/10]

No new state-owned companies have been established or come under the aegis of my Department since 2007.

Departmental Investigations

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

289 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children the discussions she had at a recent meeting with a group (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37602/10]

I appointed the former High Court Judge, Mr. TC Smyth SC, to examine whether a further investigation into the case of Michael Shine, former Consultant at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda would be of benefit.

I met with the patient support group referred to on Wednesday 13th October last. I explained that Judge Smyth's report has concluded that there is no basis for a further investigation into the matters raised by the group.

I conveyed my regret that, in order to avoid any danger of prejudicing legal cases, it is not possible to publish the report at this time. This is in line with the advice of both Judge Smyth and the Attorney General.

However, I promised to examine whether it may be possible to publish a summary of the report as soon as possible.

Health Services

John O'Donoghue

Question:

290 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Health and Children if funding can be made available to provide treatment to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37621/10]

Regulation (EC) 883/04 provides, inter alia, that people who are insured with or covered by the health care system of one member state may access health care in the public system of another member state in certain circumstances. Article 20 of the Regulation governs the referral of patients for public health services to another member state. In accordance with this article, a person eligible for health services in Ireland must be authorised by the HSE to go to another member state for treatment in the public health system there, where certain criteria are met. When authorisation is granted, Form E112 is issued by the HSE and is confirmation that the HSE will bear the cost of the treatment. These arrangements apply in all EU / EEA member states and Switzerland.

It is a matter for the HSE to determine whether authorisation for treatment abroad (including outside the EU/EEA states and Switzerland) should be granted.

My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the case investigated and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Question No. 291 answered with Question No. 285.

Pat Breen

Question:

292 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. [37637/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Health Service Allowances

Michael D'Arcy

Question:

293 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Health and Children if the top up payment granted by community welfare officers to certain persons in receipt of State benefits, such as illness benefit, to bring them up to the full jobseeker’s allowance rate is restricted to those aged 25 years and over; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37660/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

Health Services

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

294 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a totally inadequate podiatry service available to persons suffering with diabetes in South Dublin city and county; that there is an urgent need for the setting up of a local service as part of a National Foot Screen Programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37677/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Medical Cards

Michael McGrath

Question:

295 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the medical card renewal application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork [37685/10]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Hospital Services

Arthur Morgan

Question:

296 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason persons who use the Minor Injuries Unit at Louth County Hospital, Dundalk are charged €100 per visit when people who use the Minor Injuries Unit at Monaghan General Hospital have no charges imposed on them; if her Department has any input into whether or not charges are applied; if there are other discriminatory practices in terms of cost, in the health care sector; her views on whether a unified approach to health care costs would be fairer in the public system; the steps she intends to take to sort out this anomaly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37709/10]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Preschool Services

Brian Hayes

Question:

297 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason she has not replied to a query (Details Supplied) when this matter was first brought to her attention, if this family can avail of the early childhood care and education scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37713/10]

I have responsibility for implementing the free Preschool Year in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) scheme, which provides for a free preschool year to eligible children in the year before they commence primary school.

Children qualify for the free preschool year where they are aged more than 3 years 2 months and less than 4 years 7 months in September of the relevant year. This means that children born between 2 February 2006 and 30 June 2007 are eligible for the free preschool year which commenced in September 2010, and children born between 2 February 2007 and 30 June 2008 will be eligible in September 2011. I understand that the person referred to by the Deputy has a child who will qualify for the ECCE scheme in September 2011 but is outside of the lower age limit for qualification in September 2010. There is no provision under the scheme to enrol children that are below the qualifying age.

The objective of the ECCE scheme is to make early learning in a formal setting available to all children in the year before they commence primary school. Services participating in the preschool year are expected to provide appropriate age related activities and programmes to children within a particular age cohort. It is necessary, therefore, to target the preschool year at a particular age cohort and to set minimum and maximum limits to the age range within which children participate in the scheme. In setting the minimum and maximum age limits, account was taken of a number of factors, including the variation in school admission policies and the fact that the majority of children commence primary school between the ages of 4 years 6 months and 5 years 6 months.

I wish to advise the Deputy that my Office received correspondence in relation to this matter in September this year and a response issued on 11 October 2010.

Adoption Services

Charles Flanagan

Question:

298 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children the action she will take to correct adoption records (details supplied) where illegal birth registrations were carried out by private adoption agencies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37716/10]

Registration of domestic adoptions is governed by Section 22 of the Adoption Act 1952. Under that provision, an tArd Chlaraitheoir (Registrar General) is required to maintain a register of domestic adoptions (i.e. adoptions effected in Ireland, regardless of where the adopted person was born). The register is called the Adopted Children Register. The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs has no authority to amend any details in that regard.

If an individual has evidence or information in relation to suspicions of illegal adoptions these concerns should be addressed to the appropriate authorities so that an investigation can commence.

Parliamentary Questions

Tom Hayes

Question:

299 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of questions received by her Department since the commencement of the Dáil term in September 2010; the number of these questions which were referred to the Health Service Executive for reply directly; the length of time the HSE are taking to reply to parliamentary questions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37722/10]

From September to 14th October of this Dail term 761 PQs have received by my Department. 485 of these (64%) have been referred to the HSE for direct reply. PQs referred to the HSE relate to operational issues, a large number of which concern individual cases.

The operation of the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the HSE (PAD) allows for the centralised receipt, assignment and tracking of Parliamentary Questions within the HSE's extensive network of operations. More generally, PAD monitors overall performance in relation to the timely issue of replies and provides a central contact for all requests from Oireachtas members for information relating to matters within the statutory remit of the Executive. It reports on a regular basis to the Chief Executive Officer and his management team.

In 2007 the Executive worked to a timeframe of responding to referred questions within 20 working days and this target was met for 65% of referred questions. From January 2008, this timeframe was reduced to 15 working days and 73% of referred questions were answered within this period. In 2009, 62% of questions referred to the Executive were answered within the 15 day timeframe.

However, between January and September 1st of this year, the number of questions answered within the 15 day timeframe dropped to 43%. This was due to a period of industrial action which commenced on a limited basis within the Health Service Executive on the 4th January 2010 and which escalated in effect from 1st March through to June 15th. In effect no new Parliamentary Questions could be forwarded to the Executive by my Department during the latter period.

The Executive is very conscious of the need for prompt responses to Parliamentary Questions and there is regular liaison between my Department and the Executive in this regard. While the Executive attempts to answer all questions referred to it as quickly as possible, many of the questions submitted by Deputies request large and detailed amounts of statistical data on a variety of subjects which require input and co-ordination from all areas of the Executive. Recent questions of this nature submitted to my Department include:

the number of home help hours provided in each year from 2007 to 2010 on a county basis;

the number of TB cases diagnosed in every county for each year between 2005 and 2010;

the number of persons on the waiting list for hearing aids in each HSE region;

the number of persons currently on waiting lists to see consultants in every hospital and the length of time each person has been on the list.

Given the volume of information sought in these type of questions, the Deputy will appreciate that it may not be possible to provide responses to such questions within the 15 day timeframe. However, my officials are working closely with the HSE to try to improve the service to members of the Oireachtas generally, and at recent meetings with the new CEO of the HSE, Mr. Cathal Magee, I have stressed the importance of providing responses to Parliamentary Questions that are both prompt and of a high quality. Mr. Magee is very aware of my concerns in this regard and is committed to improving the handling of parliamentary affairs within the HSE.

Long-Term Illness Scheme

Michael Ahern

Question:

300 Deputy Michael Ahern asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to the recently introduced 50 cent charge per item on prescribed medicines, if she will consider exempting medical card holders suffering from diabetes as non medical card holders suffering from diabetes are entitled to a long-term illness book and are exempt from the 50 cent charge; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37731/10]

Under the Long Term Illness Scheme, the HSE provides patients with medicines and appliances for the treatment of their disease or disability. It does not cover the cost of GP visits.

Medical card holders do not have to pay for GP visits. With effect from the 1 October, medical card holders are required to pay a 50c charge for medicines and other prescription items supplied to them by community pharmacists, subject to a cap of €10 per month for each person or family. Prescription charges do not apply to children in the care of the HSE or to methadone supplied to patients participating in the Methadone Treatment Scheme. There are no plans to exempt any other products or categories of patients from the charge.

Ambulance Service

Tom Hayes

Question:

301 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No 194 of 8 July 2010 regarding an ambulance service for a town (details supplied) in County Tipperary when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive [37735/10]

I understand the HSE issued a response to the Deputy on the 15th July 2010 in this matter.

Departmental Properties

Sean Sherlock

Question:

302 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of money being awarded at present in rental fees and leases to individuals, companies and or commercial entities in Mallow, County Cork; the amount awarded per property, to whom and if rent is being awarded on an unoccupied property; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37747/10]

Management of the Health Service Executive property portfolio is a service matter. Therefore your question has been referred to the Executive for direct reply.

Preschool Services

Willie Penrose

Question:

303 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has received correspondence from an organisation (details supplied); if she will make the changes requested to the early childhood care and education scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37760/10]

I have responsibility for implementing the free Pre-School Year in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) scheme, which provides for a free pre-school year to eligible children in the year before they commence primary school.

I have read the correspondence referred to by the Deputy and do not accept it provides any basis for considering any change to the ECCE scheme. On the contrary, the evidence of my Office is that the early childhood care and education sector is very happy with the ECCE scheme and anxious that it will continue in its present form into the future. The number of services participating in the scheme has increased from approximately 3,800 in January 2010 to 4,200 this September. This represents 95% of all pre-school services in the State and clearly demonstrates that the capitation rates provided for under the scheme are reasonable. The fact that 94% of eligible children are availing of the free pre-school year within 8 months of its introduction, is further testimony to its success.

Under the Child Care (Pre-School Services) (No. 2) Regulations 2006, a person single-handedly taking care of pre-school children in his or her own home, for a total of more than 2 hours a day, is considered to be providing a childminding service. In general, where more than three children are being taken care of, a childminder is required to notify his or her service to the Health Service Executive (HSE) and is subject to the Regulations and to inspection. Childminders who are not subject to these requirements are encouraged to voluntarily notify their service to their local City or County Childcare Committee which provides a range of supports to enable them to improve the standards of their childcare service. While my Office actively promotes the notification of childminding services and the participation of childminders in quality and training programmes, it is not in a position to prevent parents entering into informal arrangements with childminders who are outside the scope of the Regulations.

National and international research has established that there is a close relationship between the capacity and qualifications of the workforce in early childhood care and education settings and the quality of young children's early experiences. The Workforce Development Plan for the sector, which is about to be published by my Office, includes a commitment to upskilling the workforce in the Early Childhood Care and Education sector and this is re-enforced by the condition that services participating in the ECCE scheme must have appropriately qualified staff to deliver the pre-school year. The ECCE scheme is the first to require staff working in the sector to hold relevant qualifications. At this point, the scheme does not require Pre-School Year leaders to hold more than a minimum qualification level. This is intended to assist the process of improving quality and standards over time. However, importantly, the scheme also provides for the payment of a higher capitation fee to services with more highly qualified staff and I would hope that this will further support the upward trend in qualifications held within the sector.

I would agree that staff in pre-school services with many years of experience will generally have accrued valuable learning relevant to their role. However, research has shown that years of experience in the workplace do not necessarily translate into relevant learning and it is important to have processes in place to objectively assess prior learning. The processes currently in place to give nationally recognised accreditation of prior learning, are the responsibility of educational institutions and awarding bodies such as the Further Education and Training Awards Council (FETAC) and the Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC). Assessment will generally take place as part of the delivery of a programme of education and training but may also be conducted as part of a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process. RPL processes usually involve an individual providing evidence of his or her learning for independent assessment and certifications from courses that are not aligned with the National Framework of Qualifications can also be assessed.

Whether a service is liable for commercial rates, under the Valuation Act 2001, is a matter for the Valuation Office under the remit of the Minister for Finance. Following the announcement of the ECCE scheme, the Valuation Office clarified in July 2009 that services participating in the scheme which are solely and exclusively used for the provision of educational services which are available to the general public, and where the expenses incurred in providing these services are defrayed wholly or mainly by the State, would be considered exempt from commercial rates. Childcare services which do not satisfy these conditions continue to be liable to commercial rates.

Mental Health Services

John Deasy

Question:

304 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to provide inpatient psychiatric facilities for children and adolescents in Waterford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37769/10]

As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

305 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide details of the number of civil servants in her Department who are currently e-working; her plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if she will provide details of the numbers of civil servants she would hope to have e-working by end 2013; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38199/10]

My Department does not have a formal e-working policy in place at present. However, IT supports (such as laptops, remote log-on, mobile phones etc) are available to staff when remote access is required. This has been used to good effect over the past number of years including informal arrangements whereby a staff member and their manager agree that a particular specific item of work could best be completed by a defined and short period of e-working from home.

While I consider that these informal arrangements continue to work well, the potential of more formalised e-working arrangements will be considered as part of a new HR strategy for my Department which is currently under development.

Road Network

Pat Breen

Question:

306 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the status of a project (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37148/10]

The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. I understand from Clare County Council that the EIS and Preliminary Design Report for the project in question are now complete and are expected to be submitted shortly.

Further progress on project such as this will depend on applications for funding having regard to compliance with eligibility criteria, the need to prioritize projects, competing demands from other local authorities, and available funding.

National Emergency Plan

Tom Hayes

Question:

307 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Transport the arrangements that have been made to have emergency management plans in place for each of the following extreme weather patterns in each of the main cities and in rural areas: extreme cold including frost and ice, heavy falls of snow, flooding in urban and rural areas from rainfall and also from rivers; the person whose responsibility it is to have these emergency plans in place; the person whose responsibility it is to decide when to put these plans in place; the role his Department plays in these decisions and roll-out; the way the local authorities are to be informed and assisted in the event of any of these scenarios occurring; if an emergency warning plan for media and other organisations has been put in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37109/10]

The Department for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government has overall responsibility under the Emergency Planning Framework for severe weather issues.

Road Network

Tom Hayes

Question:

308 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Transport the supply of salt and grit the local authorities have in stock for the winter for 2010-11; where these stocks are located for each local authority and the amount of time it will take to order additional supplies if necessary. [37110/10]

As the Deputy will be aware the day to day operations on the national roads network are managed by the National Roads Authority (NRA) which also provides technical advice to my Department in respect of non national, regional and local roads. The NRA has been tasked with ensuring adequate salt supplies are available in future to maintain a prioritised road network. To achieve this, the NRA advertised a framework contract in August 2010 for the supply of de-icing salt for the coming winter.

The contract is for the supply of 80,000 tonnes with an initial call off of 50,000 tonnes to be imported and distributed by mid December and a further 30,000 tonnes in January 2011. This supply will be in addition to the 20,000 tonnes of salt stock currently available. I am informed that Local Authorities can also continue to purchase salt directly from traditional suppliers.

I understand that the NRA is also investing €6million this year in additional dry storage facilities for de-icing salt and a further €2.5million for grit spreaders/snow blades etc for local authorities.

Joe Costello

Question:

309 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Transport the steps that have been taken to ensure that sufficient funding is made available for the National Roads Authority to stock salt and supplies to guard against a repeat of 2009-10 shortage during the cold weather spell; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37155/10]

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. I am satisfied that sufficient funding has been made available to the National Roads Authority for winter maintenance on the National road network. The construction, improvement and maintenance of individual national roads is a matter for the National Roads Authority under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

Cycle Facilities

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

310 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport when he will remove the mandatory use requirement for cycle lanes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37218/10]

The removal of the requirement to use cycle lanes where provided is one of the undertakings in the National Cycle Policy Framework. Subject to finalising some safety aspects of the proposal, I hope to make the necessary amending Regulations by early 2011.

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

311 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Transport the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37308/10]

Details of my Department's contracts with telecommunication providers are contained in the following table. Contracts entered into by the agencies within the remit of my Department are a day-to-day operational matter for those agencies and as such I have no function in the matter. My Department regularly reviews our telecommunications requirements in order to benefit from advances in technologies and ensure that services are provided in an efficient and cost effective manner.

Number of Contracts

Company

Service

Financial Agreements

1

O2

Mobile Voice

Paid Monthly

1

O2

Provision of Wide Area Network (WAN) Links

Paid Quarterly

1

Vodafone

Mobile Voice and Data Services

Paid Monthly

1

Skellig Broadband

Broadband

Paid Bi-Annually

3

Eircom

Provision of Wide Area Network (WAN) Links

Paid Quarterly

3

Eircom

Provision of Public Service Telecoms Network (PSTN) Links

Paid Monthly

3

Eircom

Provision of Broadband Links

Paid Monthly

4

Eircom

Provision of Primary and Basic rate ISDN

Paid Monthly

1

Eircom

Provision of Domain Names

Paid Annually

1

Eircom

Provision of Fibre Optic Link to Disaster Recovery site

Paid Quarterly

1

Eircom

PABX Maintenance

Paid Quarterly

1

BT

Provision of Primary Rate ISDN

Paid Monthly

1

BT

Provision of Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) Links

Paid Monthly

1

BT

Maintenance and Support for Voice and Local area Network (LAN) Systems

Paid Annually

Leo Varadkar

Question:

312 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Transport the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with energy providers; if he will to provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37323/10]

The energy requirements for my Department have been fulfilled under contracts negotiated by the Government Supplies Agency (GSA). The National Procurement Service is now responsible for GSA contracts. The National Procurement Service has indicated that it has put a framework agreement in place and has concluded a tender process for the purpose of placing contracts for the supply of fuels for Central Government Departments, Offices and Agencies. The energy requirements for my Department will be catered for in the new agreement.

Cycle Facilities

Terence Flanagan

Question:

313 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Transport if he will deal with a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37337/10]

The cost of Dublin City Council's Premium Canal Cycle Route, which includes a link to the S2S cycle route at Fairview, is a matter for the City Council. However, my Department agreed to provide funding of €8.3m to the project on the basis of the Council's estimated cost of €10 million. I am aware from the Council that works are already underway on certain portions of this 7 kilometre route.

Fishing Vessel Licences

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

314 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport the number of 15 m to 24 m fishing boats on the Irish fishing vessel register for which fishing vessel safety certificates have been issued by 1 October; the number of such vessels which have not obtained or failed to apply for such safety certificates; the discussions he has had on any decommissioning arrangements for old vessels not able to obtain the safety certificate and particularly for vessels in the 15 m to 18 m category for which earlier decommissioning arrangements did not apply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37378/10]

The development of safety regulations for fishing vessels dates back to the Fishing Vessel Safety Review group, which reported in 1996. One key recommendation made by that group was for the establishment of a safety regime for fishing vessels covering stability, strength, hull and machinery. Following several fishing vessel tragedies in 2007 efforts focused on the development of a scheme for the fishing vessels in the 15m to 24m length category. My Department developed regulations for such vessels based on international standards and these regulations were subject to extensive public consultations, following, which the regulations entered into force in September of that year. The Department of Transport as the maritime safety regulator does not regulate or control the number of fishing vessels; the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food carry out this function. Compliance with the safety regulations is only required for those fishing vessels wishing to operate. Consequently, the Department of Transport only maintains figures for fishing vessels that have been issued with or made contact with the Department for certificates.

The new regulations apply to fishing vessels in the 15m to 24m length category on a phased basis from 2007.

On 1 October 2010 a total of 81 fishing vessels had been issued with a safety certificate or clearance for such and since then a further 10 vessels have received clearance.

In addition, a further 41 vessel owners have contacted the Department with a view to achieving a certificate, and the Marine Survey Office is processing these. From contacts between officials of my Department and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food there may still be 20 or so older vessels that have not made contact to date. It is a matter for each vessel owner in question to do so if it is his or her intention to continue to use the vessel.

Any decommissioning scheme for fishing vessels would be a matter for the Minister of Agriculture Fisheries and Food and I have no function in that regard.

Road Network

Rory O'Hanlon

Question:

315 Deputy Rory O’Hanlon asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the upgrade of the road from Dundalk to Cavan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37379/10]

Proposals to deliver an upgraded route linking Dundalk to Sligo, taking in Cavan, involve linking elements of the national road network and regional roads along as direct a route as possible. Such a route is recommended in the National Spatial Strategy as a strategic national transport corridor. Essentially the route involves upgrade/realignment works on the regional routes from Dundalk to Cavan and on national routes from Cavan to Sligo. The latter would involve a route that passes through Northern Ireland. The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads, in its area, is a statutory function of each road authority in accordance with the provisions of section 13 of the Roads Act, 1993. Works on such roads are a matter for the relevant local authority to be funded from its own resources supplemented by State road grants.

Funding of the national roads sections of the route are a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme element of Transport 21.

Cavan County Council was allocated €600,000 in 2010 from the grant stream for Strategic Regional and Local Roads, to progress design and planning work on the section of road from Dundalk to Cavan. The Council's consultant has identified a route corridor and is now carrying out a constraints study so that a specific route alignment can be selected. It is also part of the consultant's brief to indicate what priority should be given to different sections of the road between Dundalk and Cavan.

Separately, the NRA has been asked to review investment needs for the national roads network into the future. This review is being carried out based on a commitment in the Renewed Programme for Government agreed in October last year. Its scope includes all matters surrounding national road development such as cross-section and routing. Progress on particular road schemes in 2011, and later years, will be dependent on the outcome of this review and the availability of funds within a reduced capital budget.

Cycle Facilities

James Bannon

Question:

316 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Transport the reason County Longford was excluded from plans for the 2,000 km national network of cycle paths, which will connect cities and towns across the State (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37383/10]

I would refer the Deputy to the Dail Adjournment Debate on this matter on 7 October 2010, and in particular the points that the Network outlines corridors and not routes, the identified corridors are seen as providing a skeleton around which the development of a National Cycle Network should occur, and the potential of cycle routes to increase mobility and accessibility whether within the context of a National Cycle Network or otherwise.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

317 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Transport the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of his Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37576/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

318 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Transport the new state-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of his Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37591/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 317 and 318 together.

The only new agency or office established under the aegis of the Department of Transport since 2007 is the National Transport Authority, which was established on 1st December 2009. The Authority absorbed the Dublin Transportation Office and is due to absorb the Commission for Taxi Regulation by year end.

The Department funds the general administrative expenses of the National Transport Authority and the provision in the 2010 revised estimates as published is €1.012 million.

Air Services

John O'Donoghue

Question:

319 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Transport if he intends to issue legal proceedings for specific performance and damages against an airline (details supplied) following notification to him of its intention to withdraw two of its daily flights on the Kerry to Dublin and Dublin to Kerry route as and from 1 November 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37612/10]

John O'Donoghue

Question:

320 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Transport if he has entered into talks with an airline (details supplied) with a view to replacing another airline on the Dublin/Kerry and Kerry/Dublin route; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37616/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 319 and 320 together.

I am very aware of the possible implications for Kerry of Ryanair reducing its level of services on the Kerry/Dublin route.

As you are aware, this service is operated under the current Public Service Obligation (PSO) contracts for services linking Dublin Airport with the regional airports at Derry, Donegal, Sligo, Ireland West Airport Knock, Galway and Kerry Airports. These contracts commenced on 22 July 2008 and are due to expire on 21 July 2011.

In the case of the Kerry route, following an EU public tendering process, a bid submitted by Ryanair emerged as the winner. The bid met the requirement in terms of proposed operating timetables as set out in the specifications published in the EU Official Journal, which stipulated that three return flights per day would be provided. The bid from Ryanair also set out the compensation it required in order to operate the service. Based on that bid, Ryanair were awarded the contract to provide the scheduled air services over the three year contract period and are receiving payments in accordance with the contract.

I can assure the Deputy that I have met all my obligations under the terms of the contract. There are also obligations on Ryanair under the contract and it is a matter for that Company to ensure it complies with its terms. My Department is currently in communication with the Company in the matter. Clearly, if there is a breach of the contract, my Department will have to consider its options.

I am aware that discussions have taken place between Kerry Airport and Aer Arann in relation to the possibility of providing a service on the route. My Department has also had discussions with Aer Arann about a range of issues, including the Kerry PSO. However, my focus is currently on ensuring that Ryanair honours its obligations under the contract.

Public Transport

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

321 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the proposed granting of a new bus licence from Knocknacarra to Eyre Square in County Galway; to whom these licences are to be granted; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there exists another service, whose services are more than adequate to cater for existing demand and whose four licences for similar routes will overlap with the proposed new service; and his views on the matter, bearing in mind that the existing service will have to shed staff in the event of the new licences being issued [37738/10]

My Department is obliged to process any application received for an annual passenger licence submitted under the 1932 Act. In considering the grant or refusal of an application, under Section 11(3)(a), I must have regard to whether the service in respect of which such application is made is required in the public interest having regard to the passenger road services available to the public on or in the neighbourhood of the route of the proposed service.

With regard to an application for a passenger road service in the Galway City area, a decision has been made taking into account all existing road passenger services on or in the neighbourhood of the proposed service. The applicant has been informed of my Department's decision and been given time to accept or reject this decision. If the applicant rejects the decision, they have to be afforded the opportunity to lodge an appeal.

The details of the applicant and the application remain confidential until such time as the process has been completed.

Regional Airports

John Deasy

Question:

322 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Transport the amount of funding under the public service obligation scheme paid in respect of routes from each of the regional airports in each year from 2005 to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37770/10]

John Deasy

Question:

323 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Transport the total operational subvention paid to each regional airport each year from 2005 to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37771/10]

John Deasy

Question:

324 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Transport if he will ensure that sufficient funding is available to Waterford Regional Airport to enable it continue in operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37772/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 322 to 324, inclusive, together.

PSO air services subvention is set out in the following table:

Contract Amounts, per contract year

Jul 05 to Jul 06

Jul 06 to Jul 07

Jul 07 to Jul 08

Jul 08 to Jul 09

Jul 09 to Jul ii10

Galway

2,953,594

3,004,919

3,041,058

3,271,344

3,314,239

Kerry

3,013,556

3,003,493

3,008,433

1,750,000

1,750,000

Sligo/Donegal

4,966,108

5,157,252

5,403,422

5,378,689

5,639,552

Knock/Derry

3,895,112

4,083,235

4,287,719

3,837,595

4,336,276

14,828,370

15,248,899

15,740,632

14,237,628

15,040,067

The Sligo/Donegal and Knock/Derry routes are operated under a combined contract.

Operational subvention is set out in the following table:

Airport

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

Donegal

255,000

64,600

44,000

0

131,000

Sligo

255,000

231,200

9,000

0

313,000

Knock

400,000

0

0

0

445,000

Galway

280,000

677,848

859,000

1,200,000

962,000

Kerry

400,000

0

0

0

0

Waterford

650,000

687,685

1,352,000

1,540,000

1,494,000

Total

2,240,000

1,661,333

2,264,000

2,740,000

3,345,000

Payments for 2010 are not yet finalised.

With regard to the funding of Waterford Airport, because of a projected shortfall in the resources available to fund this scheme, after allowing for estimated requirements for the PSO Air Services Programme for 2010, the six Regional Airports were allocated operational subventions on a pro rata basis in July of this year with no airport getting the full amount it might otherwise expect. This allocation was in line with the OPEX contracts with the Airports.

However, I am very much aware that several events have impacted on the regional airports since this year's applications for funding were received and that payments at the reduced level have been causing difficulties for the Airports. To that end, my Department has been monitoring the position with management at each of the airports. In recognition of those difficulties, I have decided to provide additional funding for the Scheme for 2010.

All the Airports, including Waterford, have been invited to submit additional information in support of their applications for funding. This updated information will be re-assessed by the Department in accordance with the terms of the scheme and allocations will be made accordingly.

The Value for Money Review of Exchequer Expenditure on the Regional Airports Programme, including the OPEX Scheme, has been completed and is at present being considered by Government. It is expected that, in the light of that Review, decisions on funding for regional airports in future years will be made in the context of the Estimates and Budget process later this year.

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

325 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide details of the number of civil servants in each Government Department who are currently e-working; his plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if he will provide details of the numbers of civil servants he would hope to have e-working by end 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38202/10]

The Department has facilities in place which allow staff to undertake work while away from the Department's offices, including the provision of laptops, remote access to its email systems and Blackberry devices, and is currently investigating the options for extending access to other Departmental systems in addition to email. Through these and similar measures I would expect to see most civil servants in my Department increasingly engaged in e-working by 2013.

Furthermore my Department currently has five officers engaged in tele-working.

The Smarter Travel Plan 2009-2020 recognises that flexible and e-working policies can contribute to reducing the need to travel and to achieving modal shift.

Road Traffic Offences

Mary Upton

Question:

326 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will address the concerns of a person (details supplied) regarding the dangers posed by cyclists on our roads, and the lack of controls and penalties in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37330/10]

The law relating to cycling is set out in road traffic legislation, which is the responsibility of my colleague the Minister for Transport.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that all members of An Garda Síochána are tasked with enforcing road traffic legislation, including the relevant provisions in respect of cyclists. Dedicated Traffic Corps units throughout the country, and in particular within the Dublin Metropolitan Region, do so on a constant basis. This includes carrying out specific enforcement operations which target misbehaviour by cyclists with the aim of promoting an improved compliance culture.

All breaches of road traffic legislation coming to the attention of An Garda Síochána are fully investigated. Where there is evidence to support a prosecution criminal proceedings are commenced. Where appropriate, members of An Garda Síochána may deal with incidents by using their discretion and issuing a caution or providing advice.

Members of the Garda Regional Road Safety Units regularly give educational talks through the Garda Schools Programme on road safety and road traffic law, including the law relating to pedal cyclists, to young people and other identified high risk road users.

Peace Commissioners

Róisín Shortall

Question:

327 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the power, duties and responsibilities of Peace Commissioners; and the information that is provided to commissioners to assist them in their role and specifically if his Department have provided further documentation regarding detecting and reporting incidents of welfare fraud. [37103/10]

Peace Commissioners are appointed by the Minister for Justice and Law Reform under Section 88 of the Courts of Justice Act, 1924. It is an honorary position and a Peace Commissioner receives no remuneration or compensation from public funds. Peace Commissioners are not entitled to charge or receive for their own benefit any fee or compensation from members of the public. At present, the powers and duties of a Peace Commissioner are mainly;

the taking of statutory declarations;

witnessing signatures on documents if that is required by various authorities;

signing certificates and orders under various Acts;

signing search warrants for An Garda Síochána.

On appointment Peace Commissioners are issued with a guidance manual explaining their role and duties. This manual is updated, from time to time, to take account of changes in legislation. The role of the Peace Commissioner does not encompass any specific function relating to the detection or reporting of welfare fraud. However, as with any member of the public, it is open to a Peace Commissioner to report such matters to the relevant authority at his or her discretion.

Road Traffic Offences

Tom Hayes

Question:

328 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of arrests for drunk driving that were made every year since 2005; the number of arrests for drunk driving that have been made in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37106/10]

Tom Hayes

Question:

329 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of convictions for drunk driving that have been made every year since 2005; the number of convictions there have been for drunk driving in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37108/10]

Tom Hayes

Question:

333 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of arrests each year since 2005 to date in 2010 for speeding; the type of roads where these arrests took place; the number of convictions which arose from these arrests each year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37177/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 328, 329 and 333 together.

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.

The Road Safety Authority, which is under the aegis of the Department of Transport, carries out regular free speed surveys, which monitor the free speed of vehicles to determine the level of compliance of road users with speed limits. Details of the surveys are available on the Agency's website www.rsa.ie.

Citizenship Applications

Olwyn Enright

Question:

330 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will examine an application in respect of a person (details supplied) currently being dealt with within two sections of his Department; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this is causing difficulties with the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37126/10]

I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that a valid application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in Citizenship Division in July, 2010. Until an application has been successful and a certificate of naturalisation issued, it is a requirement that applicants ensure that they remain lawfully in the State. Accordingly, an application for leave to remain was received from the family (which includes the person referred to above). This application was acknowledged on 13th August and, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), leave to remain in the State was renewed for a three year period to 18th August, 2013. This decision was conveyed in writing by letter dated 18th August, 2010.

As applications for Naturalisation and Leave to Remain applications are dealt with by different Divisions within INIS, correspondence issues separately from the relevant Division. I am advised that this has not impacted on the application for naturalisation which is being processed in the normal way.

I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual Immigration cases may be made direct to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.

Garda Vetting Services

Deirdre Clune

Question:

331 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when an application for Garda vetting will be processed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37149/10]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that a vetting application was received by the Garda Central Vetting Unit in respect of the person to whom the Deputy refers. A response to the application was returned to the registered organisation involved on 6 October, 2010.

Deirdre Clune

Question:

332 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the current waiting times for the processing of an application for Garda vetting; the number of persons currently on the waiting list for Garda vetting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37150/10]

The Garda Central Vetting Unit (GCVU) provides employment vetting for a large number of organisations in Ireland registered with the Gardaí for this purpose and which employ persons in a full-time, part-time, voluntary or training capacity to positions where they would have substantial, unsupervised access to children and/or vulnerable adults.

The GCVU has managed a substantial increase over recent years in the numbers of vetting applications it receives — 187,864 in 2007; 218,404 in 2008 and 246,194 in 2009. At present, there are approximately 60,000 vetting applications in the course of being processed.

The processing time for vetting applications fluctuates in line with periods of increased demand. Furthermore, additional time may be required to process an individual vetting application in cases where clarification is required as to the details provided or where other inquiries need to be made, for example, when the person in question has lived and worked abroad. There will always be a reasonably significant time period required to process a vetting application. Registered organisations have been advised to take account of this in their recruitment and selection process. However, the Gardaí make every effort to reduce the time to the minimum possible consistent with carrying out the necessary checks. I am informed by the Garda Authorities that the current average processing time for vetting applications received at the GCVU is approximately 12 weeks.

The allocation of Garda resources, including personnel, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner. Due to the high volume of applications, an additional ten persons have recently been recruited to the Vetting Unit on a temporary basis. In addition, overall staffing arrangements at the Unit are kept under review.

Question No. 333 answered with Question No. 328.

Asylum Applications

Mary Upton

Question:

334 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will review the case of a family (details supplied) who are seeking leave to remain here on humanitarian grounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37193/10]

The persons concerned are a family of three, a mother, father and their adult daughter. The mother and daughter arrived in the State on 13/03/2002 and made an application for asylum on 14/03/2002. The father arrived in the State on 01/04/2002 and made an application for asylum on 02/04/2002. The asylum applications were refused following consideration of their cases by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner.

Following consideration of their cases under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 as amended the Minister signed Deportation Orders in respect of the mother and father on 20/04/2010. The Deportation Order in respect of their daughter was signed on 11/05/2005.

Through their legal representative, the people concerned initiated Judicial Review Proceedings in the High Court on 27/05/2010 challenging the decision to make a Deportation Order in respect of them. As these proceedings are ongoing the matter is sub judice and it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on the case at this time.

I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.

Garda Operations

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

335 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if Garda Operation Stilts is still active; the number of persons arrested and charged to date because of this operation; the number of gardaí involved; the amount of drugs seized to date; the cost of the operation to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37196/10]

I wish to inform the Deputy that it has not been possible within the timeframe available to provide the detailed figures that have been requested . I will, however, revert to him in due course when the relevant information is to hand.

Garda Strength

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

336 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of gardaí attached to Coolock, Raheny and Howth Garda stations in 2008 and 2009 and to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37200/10]

I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of Coolock, Raheny and Howth Garda Stations on 31 December 2008, 2009 and on the latest date for which figures are readily available in 2010 was as set out in the table hereunder:

Station

31/12/08

31/12/09

2010

Coolock

118

123

120

Raheny

71

77

74

Howth

40

44

41

Responsibility for the allocation of resources, including personnel, within the Force rests with the Garda Commissioner, in consultation with his senior management team. Resource levels are constantly monitored, in conjunction with crime trends and other demands made on An Garda Síochána, and the situation is kept under continuing review to ensure optimum use is made of these resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public.

Garda Stations

Brian Hayes

Question:

337 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the timescale for the works required for a station (details supplied) in Dublin 1; when the station will close for refurbishment works; the progress that has been made to acquire office facilities next door to the station so a Garda presence on Fitzgibbon Street can be maintained; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37214/10]

The programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation around the country is based on agreed priorities established by An Garda Síochána and it is progressed in close co-operation with the Office of Public Works, who have responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation.

I have been advised by the Garda authorities that work on the refurbishment of Mountjoy Garda Station is currently underway. It is anticipated that this work will be completed in early 2011 and that the refurbished building will accommodate the Station party from Fitzgibbon Street Garda station whilst refurbishment works are carried out at that Station. I have been assured by the Garda authorities that current policing levels will be maintained in the area concerned and that there will be no diminution of the Garda service being provided to the local community.

I am further advised by the Garda authorities that they are currently examining the possibility of maintaining a service at Fitzgibbon Street while refurbishment works are carried out.

Bicycle Theft

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

338 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of bicycles reported stolen in Dublin city each year since 2005 [37219/10]

The Garda Síochána Act 2005 makes provision for the compilation and publication of crime statistics by the Central Statistics Office, as the national statistical agency, and the CSO has established a dedicated unit for this purpose. I have requested the CSO to provide statistics directly to the Deputy.

Citizenship Applications

Jack Wall

Question:

339 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding an application for naturalisation in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37242/10]

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 June 2006.

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

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

I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual Immigration cases may be made direct to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.

Asylum Applications

Joe Costello

Question:

340 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when the decision will issue on an application for asylum in respect of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37255/10]

The person concerned applied for asylum in this State on 4 January 2005. His asylum claim was investigated by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal, both of whom concluded that the person concerned did not meet the criteria for recognition as a refugee.

Arising from the refusal of his asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 31 March 2006, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why a Deportation Order should not be made against him. Representations were received on behalf of the person concerned at that time.

It would appear that the person concerned left the State around that time given that, on 19 April 2006, a formal "take back" request was received in respect of him from the United Kingdom's immigration authorities, in accordance with the provisions of the Dublin II Regulations. This request was made because the person concerned was in the UK without permission at that time. This request was accepted by Ireland and the person concerned was transferred from the UK to Ireland on 8 February 2007.

On 3 July 2007, the person concerned applied, in writing, to return voluntarily to his country of origin. The person concerned was requested by letter dated 9 July 2007 to attend an appointment with the Voluntary Returns Unit of my Department to make the practical arrangements for his voluntary return. However, the person concerned did not make contact with the Voluntary Returns Unit and, as a result, his request to return voluntarily to his country of origin was closed on 7 September 2007.

The person concerned clearly left the State again given that, on 19 March 2009, a further "take back" request was received from the UK immigration authorities in respect of him, again in accordance with the provisions of the Dublin II Regulations. This request was made because the person concerned was again in the UK without permission. This request was accepted by Ireland and the person concerned was transferred from the UK to Ireland on 2 October 2009.

By letter dated 21 January 2010, the person concerned was notified of his entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006. The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection and this application will be considered first. 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.

I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

341 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37305/10]

I am not in a position to provide the information sought by the Deputy at this time, but will do as soon as the information is available.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

342 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with energy providers; if he will to provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37320/10]

I am not in a position to provide the information sought by the Deputy at this time, but will do as soon as the information is available.

Garda Compensation Scheme

Mattie McGrath

Question:

343 Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when a decision will be made by the Department of Justice and Law Reform on the authorisation of a Garda compensation claim for a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary [37339/10]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the member was examined by the Garda Chief Medical Officer in relation to his application for compensation under the Garda Síochána (Compensation) Acts, 1941 and 1945. Prior to finalising his report the Garda Chief Medical Officer requires further medical reports from two medical specialists. Upon receipt of this information his report and a report from the Garda Commissioner will be forwarded to my Department for a decision on his application.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

344 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of Garda claimants under the Garda Síochána compensation Acts over each of the past five years; the total amounts of compensation paid under the said Acts in each of the past five years. [37375/10]

The numbers of Garda compensation claims received and the amount of compensation paid for the years 2005 to 2009 are set out in the following table.

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

Number of Claims received per year

249

257

198

228

194

Compensation awarded

€7.2m

€7.0m

€9.8m

€13.6m

€7.7m

Closed Circuit Television Systems

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

345 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number and location of those closed circuit television camera systems that are monitored by the Garda on a 24-hour basis; the level of monitoring being applied by gardaí across all CCTV systems in terms of man hours on a daily basis; if he is committed to the further expansion of the Garda CCTV programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37376/10]

Garda town centre CCTV systems are planned and implemented on the basis of operational needs identified by An Garda Síochána and any plans for the further extension of the current Garda CCTV Programme will be a matter for the Garda Commissioner in the first instance.

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that 27 Garda CCTV schemes are operational in the following locations: Dublin City centre (north and south); Tralee; Cork City; Bray; Dun Laoghaire; Dundalk; Limerick; Galway; Finglas; Clondalkin; Ballyfermot; Tullamore; Drogheda; Tallaght; Mullingar; Waterford; Portlaoise; Kilkenny; Ennis; Castlebar; Sligo; Kinsale; Dungarvan; Athlone; Clonmel and Carlow.

Specific information in relation to the monitoring of Garda CCTV systems is not readily available and I will contact the Deputy at a later date in relation to this matter.

Garda Recruitment

Olwyn Enright

Question:

346 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when the last intake of gardaí to Templemore training college took place; when the next intake is scheduled to take place; if such intake is affected by the moratorium on recruitment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37381/10]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the last intake of Garda trainees to Templemore training college took place in May 2009.

The general moratorium on recruitment and appointments in the Public Service continues to apply to An Garda Síochána. However, in order to meet future Garda recruitment needs, a Garda recruitment campaign was initiated earlier this year to establish a panel of approved candidates and I was happy to obtain the sanction of my colleague the Minister for Finance for this process. This forward planning is necessary given the long lead times involved both in establishing such a panel and in training recruits to the point of attestation. The Garda recruitment process is managed by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Commissioner and I have no function in that matter.

Asylum Applications

Alan Shatter

Question:

347 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of Irish born children presently being individually processed through the asylum system and not simply registered as family dependants; the number of such applications determined to date; the number that have resulted in the granting of permission to remain here and the basis for any such decision reached and the number who have been denied permission to remain here [37390/10]

Based on figures to the end of September 2010, there are currently approximately 300 applications being processed in the asylum system in respect of children born in Ireland. Between 1 January 2005 (the earliest date for which information is available) and 30 September 2010, approximately 1,750 recommendations were made in respect of such applications, approximately 40 of which were to grant refugee status with the balance refused.

Statistics are not maintained in relation to the basis for individual recommendations to grant refugee status. The statutory basis for such decisions is set out in Section 2 of the Refugee Act which defines a refugee as "a person who, owing to a well founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion, is outside the country of his or her nationality and is unable or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to avail himself or herself of the protection of that country; or who, not having a nationality and being outside the country of his or her former habitual residence, is unable or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to return to it."

Default on Payment of Fines

Alan Shatter

Question:

348 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if arrangements have now been made for fines imposed by the courts as a penalty in criminal proceedings to be reduced to zero upon the lodgement or delivery to Mountjoy Prison of persons who have failed to pay a fine; when these new arrangements were put in place and the instructions issued by him or on his behalf in this regard; if he will confirm these arrangements have been made to ensure the immediate release of fine defaulters and to avoid them being statistically included within the numbers of those granted temporary release and to detail the number of fine defaulters so dealt with to date [37391/10]

It has not been possible to provide the Deputy with all of the information required by him in the time allocated. I will revert to the Deputy when the relevant material for the reply has been compiled.

Citizenship Applications

Joe Carey

Question:

349 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when a decision will issue regarding an application for naturalisation in respect of persons (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37409/10]

Valid applications for certificates of naturalisation from the persons referred to in the Deputy's Question were received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in 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 processing of both applications is ongoing and the files 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.

I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual Immigration cases may be made direct to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.

Deportation Orders

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

350 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will review or defer deportation in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37445/10]

I refer the Deputy to my detailed Reply to his Parliamentary Questions No. 971 and 1038 of Wednesday, 29 September 2010, in this matter. The position in the State of the person concerned is as set out in that Reply.

I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.

Prisoner Transfers

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

351 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when accommodation transfer to Dublin will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37446/10]

The Reception and Integration Agency (RIA) is responsible for the accommodation of asylum seekers in accordance with the Government policy of direct provision and dispersal.

The person referred to in the question is a resident at an accommodation centre in Monaghan and has made a number of requests to the RIA for transfer from that accommodation centre on medical grounds. These have been responded to with the latest response issuing on 30 September, 2010. The latest request had been referred to an independent medical referee for consideration and recommendation as to whether a transfer was warranted.

Deportation Orders

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

352 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37447/10]

Arising from the refusal of her asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 30 March 2010, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of her. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why a Deportation Order should not be made against her. In addition, she was notified of her entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006.

The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection and this application will be considered first. 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.

I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

353 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of his Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37573/10]

I wish to inform the Deputy that in the period in question no new statutory or independent bodies or offices were established in my Department.

State Companies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

354 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the new State-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of his Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37588/10]

I assume that the Deputy is referring to companies that are involved in commercial or trading activities. No such companies have either been established or have come under the aegis of my Department since 2007. The bodies and agencies attached to my Department provide public services in the broad Justice area and therefore do not engage in any significant commercial activity.

Visa Applications

Michael Ring

Question:

355 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of persons from outside the EU who have been given entry visas to Ireland in order to pursue a full time course of studies here in each of the past five years. [37630/10]

The table provides the information sought by the Deputy for the years 2007, 2008 and 2009. Comparable figures for earlier years are not available. It should be noted that the figures set out below relate to visa transactions, for non-EEA nationals, resulting in approval decisions and do not refer to unique individuals.

Number of Study Visa approval Decisions by Year

2007

2008

2009

4,849

4,563

4,049

I should add that, of the figures above, some 30% of study visas issued during 2009 were for short-term courses or assignments, including English language courses, of less than ninety days duration. The remaining 70% approximately were for longer-term study. Unfortunately, for technical reasons, it is not possible to provide a breakdown for short term and long term study visas (similar to that provided for the year 2009) for the years 2007 and 2008.

Garda Vetting Services

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

356 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if a conviction for breach of the peace would be a cause of delay in a Garda vetting report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37633/10]

The Garda Central Vetting Unit (GCVU) provides employment vetting for a large number of organisations in Ireland registered with the Gardaí for this purpose and which employ persons in a full-time, part-time, voluntary or training capacity to positions where they would have substantial, unsupervised access to children and/or vulnerable adults.

The processing time for vetting applications fluctuates in line with periods of increased demand. Furthermore, additional time may be required to process an individual vetting application in cases where clarification is required as to the details provided or where other enquiries need to be made, for example, when the person in question has lived and worked abroad. There will always be a reasonably significant time period required to process a vetting application. Registered organisations have been advised to take account of this in their recruitment and selection process. However, the Gardaí make every effort to reduce this to the minimum possible consistent with carrying out the necessary checks.

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that there are no particular delays experienced where a vetting applicant may have a conviction for a breach of the peace.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

357 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding an application for Garda vetting in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37634/10]

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that two vetting applications providing both names in respect of the person referred to have been received by the Garda Central Vetting Unit. Additional enquiries were required by the Garda Central Vetting Unit in respect of his applications. The applications are being processed at present and a response will issue in due course.

John O'Mahony

Question:

358 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their Garda clearance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37656/10]

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that a vetting application in respect of the person referred to has been received by the Garda Central Vetting Unit. The application is being processed at present and a response will issue in due course.

Garda Deployment

Tom Hayes

Question:

359 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 370 of 8 July 2010 the number of gardaí allocated full-time to each Garda station in south Tipperary; the number of gardaí that have retired each year in the past three years in south Tipperary; the number of community gardaí now assigned to towns in south Tipperary; the number of community gardaí nationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37734/10]

I have requested from the Garda Commissioner, the most up to-date detailed information sought by the Deputy and I will write to him as soon as this information is to hand.

Prison Medical Service

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

360 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of complaints and reports relating to rodents, insects and other pests in all prisons here; the number of reports and complaints relating to influenza, smallpox, swine flu and tuberculosis in all prisons here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37907/10]

I wish to inform the Deputy that it has not been possible to compile the information requested in the time available. However, a comprehensive response is being prepared and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Sex Offender Treatment Programme

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

361 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of persons in prison here for sexual offences; the numbers who have or are undergoing treatment relating to their offence; the cost of this treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37908/10]

On 15 September 2010 there were 327 persons in custody with convictions for sexual offences. Of that total 90 have been or are engaged with the Psychology Service of the Irish Prison Service in relation to their sexual offending.

Research indicates that there is no evidence to support the idea that mandatory attendance, or indeed attendance achieved under threat of punishment, at rehabilitation programmes is of any value in reducing re-offending. Incentives to encourage voluntary participation offer a greater chance of success. On the contrary, all indications are that rehabilitation does not work unless the offender is motivated to engage with the process.

The successful completion of any group treatment course depends critically on the full and willing participation of self-motivated individuals. Otherwise, the elements of the programme concerned with challenging the offender to take responsibility for his offending behaviour will not succeed.

The "Building Better Lives" programme commenced in January 2009, replacing the Sex Offender Programme initiated in 1994 and concluded in 2008. The programme comprises group interventions in three modules and is delivered in Arbour Hill Prison. It allows more responsive and flexible delivery of rehabilitation services to a greater number of offenders. The interventions take greater account of individual risk, needs and capacity. Priority is given to higher risk offenders. The programme is provided by a team of psychologists, including clinical and counselling psychologists, who have developed specific expertise in clinical practice including assessment and therapeutic work with men convicted of sexual offences. Not all sex offenders are suited to group programmes therefore other prison-based therapeutic interventions including one-to-one interventions are available.

Sex offenders also participate in other group programmes not specifically designed for sex offenders but addressing their needs, including stress management, anger management and cognitive skills training, as well as interventions by visiting psychiatrists.

Because the Psychology Service provide a range of interventions to all categories of prisoners, it is not possible to disaggregate, with any degree of accuracy, the costs element that relates solely to the treatment of prisoners with a sexual offending profile.

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

362 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will provide details of the number of civil servants in each Government Department who are currently e-working; his plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if he will provide details of the numbers of civil servants he would hope to have e-working by end 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38200/10]

Currently there are 28 staff in my Department who are eWorking. Separately, the Department has a large number of staff who have remote access to the Department's IT systems, which allows them to work from anywhere with Internet access. Occasionally, staff may work from home for particular tasks or when it suits. These arrangements are organised locally and work flexibly and effectively.

My Department will continue to support staff who wish to avail of eWorking and I would hope that the numbers so availing will continue to increase over time.

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

363 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37303/10]

My Department has direct telecommunications contracts with eight providers namely AST Connections Ltd, BT Ireland, Colt, Datasat Communications Ltd, Eircom, Hibernia Atlantic, T Systems and Telstra International. These contracts are generally for a three year period. In addition, the Department draws down the services of O2 and Vodafone operating under the terms of the relevant Department of Finance Framework agreement.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

364 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with energy providers; if he will to provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37318/10]

My Department has the following contracts in place with energy providers in the State: electricity supply agreements with the Electricity Supply Board for eight office premises located in Dublin, Limerick, Cork and Balbriggan. They are standard business user agreements and costs are charged according to electricity used.

agreements for the supply of gas with Bord Gáis to seven office premises located in Dublin, Limerick, Cork and Balbriggan. They are standard business user agreements and costs are charged according to gas used.

a Topaz charge card is used to purchase fuel for official delivery vehicles in accordance with a multi-departmental arrangement but in place by the Office of Public Works.

My Department is currently participating in the National Procurement Service tender for the procurement of energy supplies on a centralised basis to Government Departments. There are no State agencies under the aegis of my Department.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

365 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of his Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37571/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

366 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the new state-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of his Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37586/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 365 and 366 together.

Since 2007, no new agencies, offices or state-owned companies have been established under the aegis of my Department.

Human Rights Issues

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

367 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his position regarding actions Israeli action against human rights activists, specifically those detained after taking part in the freedom flotilla (details supplied) [37645/10]

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No 138 on 12 October, which was as follows: "Ms. Mairead Maguire was refused entry to Israel on 28 September on arrival at Ben Gurion Airport on a flight from Frankfurt. The basis for refusal was that she had been previously deported from Israel, most recently in June 2010 following her detention at sea on board the Rachel Corrie . She appealed this decision to the Central District Court and subsequently to the Supreme Court of Israel. Both Courts explored the possibility of a compromise solution, but no formula acceptable both to the Interior Ministry and to Ms. Maguire could be agreed.

The Irish Embassy in Tel Aviv extended full consular assistance to Ms. Maguire during this period, making contact with her, with her lawyers and her family and other concerned parties, visiting her on a number of occasions in detention, and attending both the District and Supreme Court hearings.

Both courts found that she had been previously deported, and should not therefore have attempted to re-enter Israel without applying for the lifting of the barring order resulting from this deportation. On this basis, the refusal of entry was confirmed, and she was put on a plane leaving Israel on 5 October. It appears that the courts in both instances did not wish this episode to be regarded as a further deportation, and no costs were awarded against her.

The Embassy has followed this case carefully, and it is clear that due process was correctly observed, and that both courts considered the case carefully. However, I have previously made clear, both here in the Oireachtas and to the Israeli authorities, my view that any accusation of entering Israel illegally in relation to the flotilla episode was unjustified, as neither she nor the other participants had entered Israel voluntarily on that occasion. Should Ms. Maguire now apply for permission to enter Israel, I would therefore urge the Israeli authorities to allow her to do so."

Passport Applications

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

368 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on recent revelations regarding the illegal misuse of Irish passports and the actions he plans to take on this matter [37646/10]

In late June I became aware of an allegation that one of a group of persons arrested for allegedly carrying out long-term, "deep cover" assignments in the United States on behalf of the Russian Federation had travelled to Moscow using a false Irish passport. I immediately asked the Passport Service and An Garda Síochána to undertake an investigation into this allegation and this investigation is underway. I understand that the Gardaí have now received information alleging that as many as six Irish forged passports using material cloned from the valid passports of Irish citizens may have been involved in the case in question. I can confirm that a small number of citizens have been interviewed by the Gardaí and the Passport Service. While there is no evidence that those whose passport details have allegedly been used are under any threat or have been inconvenienced while travelling, they are, as a precautionary measure, being issued with replacement passports.

The Government regards the fraudulent use of Irish passports as a most serious matter and we are constantly seeking to improve the security of passports. I understand that the passport books allegedly used were of a type produced by the Passport Service prior to 2005. There have since been major enhancements to the security features of the current passport book and the Government is satisfied that this now makes the production of a counterfeit Irish passport much more difficult, although clearly not impossible for agencies with substantial resources. In addition, procedures for confirming the identity of first time passport applicants have been tightened with a view to preventing fraud during the application process.

Once I have received the reports of An Garda Síochána and the Passport Service into these most recent allegations, I will consider the evidence presented to me before reporting to the Government and recommending whatever course of action I believe appropriate. I will then inform the House on the findings of the investigation and any action the Government should decide to take. In the interim it would be inappropriate for me, at this stage, to speculate on its conclusions.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

369 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reasons for denying a passport to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37711/10]

The Passports Act, 2008 requires that before issuing a passport to a person, the Minister for Foreign Affairs shall be satisfied that that person is an Irish citizen. Proofs of identity and entitlement to citizenship are required in respect of all passport applications. These requirements are outlined in the passport application form notes that accompany each application form. Details are also available on the Department's website. This person applied for a passport in July 2007. Her application could not be finalised by the Passport Service on the grounds that her entitlement to Irish citizenship, which was based on her Irish-born grandfather, had not been demonstrated. At that time, she was advised by the Passport Service that she had to first apply for Foreign Birth Registration through the Consular Section in my Department before a passport could be issued to her.

Foreign Births Registration is the legal process by which persons, who have direct family links to Irish-born grandparents and in some cases to Irish-born great grandparents, may apply for Irish citizenship. Those persons, who are registered, are issued with certificates. These certificates are accepted by the Passport Service as verifiable evidence of citizenship. As no certificate for Foreign Births Registration was submitted to the Passport Service by this person, her passport application was cancelled in October, 2009 and a refund of the paid passport fee was made to her.

Insofar as the Foreign Births Registration process is concerned, I can confirm that an application was received in my Department from this person on 6 October 2010. The application was not complete and the applicant was contacted by telephone on the afternoon of 6 October 2010 and advised accordingly. An e-mail was sent to the applicant later that day advising her of the extra documentation that was required in order to process the application, the statutory fee and the requirements in relation to the witnessing of the application form. Our Consulate General in New York was also contacted on the same day and they confirmed that they would assist the applicant in applying for the extra documents of U.S. origin. When the applicant returns a fully completed application form together with the statutory fee and the extra documentation my Department will expedite her application for Irish citizenship through Foreign Births Registration. Once a certificate of Foreign Births Registration is issued to her, my Department will be in a position to issue an Irish passport to her on receipt of a fully completed application form.

The situation for her children is different. While both were born in America, their father was born in Ireland and as such the children are automatically Irish citizens. They were issued passports on foot of their applications in 2007.

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

370 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will provide details of the number of civil servants in each Government Department who are currently e-working; his plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if he will provide details of the numbers of civil servants he would hope to have e-working by end 2013 [38198/10]

Eleven officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs are currently e-working under a pilot e-working scheme introduced by the Department in 2006. The scheme provides for up to 15 officers to e-work, and was originally fully subscribed. In 2008 the scheme was extended for a further two years and a reserve list of 19 officers who expressed an interest in participating was created. It is hoped to return the number of officers e-working in the Department to 15 before the end of the year. The operation of the scheme will then be reviewed in 2011, in consultation with staff representatives, with a view to exploring the feasibility of increasing the number beyond that.

Social Welfare Appeals

Deirdre Clune

Question:

371 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Social Protection the current waiting time for the assessment of an appeal against a decision to refuse illness benefit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37090/10]

I am informed by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that the average time to process an Illness Benefit appeal at present is 37 weeks. There was a 46% increase in the number of appeals received by that Office in 2009 when compared to 2008, which in itself was 27% greater than the numbers received in 2007. There was an increase of a further 44% in the number of appeals received in the first eight months of 2010. These increases have caused delays in the processing of appeals.

While this growth is clearly impacting on processing times, it must also be remembered that they cover all phases of the appeal process including the submission by the Department of its comments on the grounds for the appeal and, in the case of Illness Benefit, a second examination must be carried out by the Department's Medical Assessors.

On the return of the papers and comments to the Social Welfare Appeals Office the case is referred to an Appeals Officer who will either make a summary decision based on the documentary evidence or, if s/he considers it necessary, will list the case for oral hearing.

Given the logistics involved in organising an oral hearing, a considerable period of time is added to the process. During 2009, 81% of all Illness Benefit cases were dealt with by way of oral hearing but, due to some of the initiatives outlined below, this has been reduced to 45% in 2010 to date. In order to be fair to all appellants, the vetting of appeals and the arranging of oral hearings are being dealt with in chronological order.

A number of initiatives have been put in place to enhance the capacity of the office to deal with the current caseload and inflows. In that regard:

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

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

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

A project to improve the business processes in the office was undertaken which has resulted in a number of improvements being implemented, and

Significant enhancements have been made to the office's IT and phone systems.

In addition, it was decided to use experienced retired staff strictly on a short term basis to supplement the current resources and the services of eight retired officers have now been secured on a part-time basis and have been operating since July.

I am assured by the Chief Appeals Officer that she is keeping current processes under continuous review with a view to achieving a more effective throughput of appeals, while ensuring that any progress does not conflict with due process in terms of the rights of appellants and adherence to the requirements of natural justice.

Terence Flanagan

Question:

372 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37092/10]

In the case in question an application for domiciliary care allowance was received on the 12th August 2009. This application was referred to one of the Department's Medical Assessors who found that the child was not medically eligible for the allowance. A letter issued on the 6th October 2009 where the person concerned was advised of the decision to refuse the allowance. The person concerned subsequently lodged an appeal against this decision. She was informed by the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 24th May 2010 that the appeal had been disallowed.

The decision/appeal process for this application is now complete. All the available information was provided to the appeals officer before the appeal was considered. However, if the person concerned has new or additional information, it is open to her to re-apply.

Social Insurance

Róisín Shortall

Question:

373 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons paying PRSI in each of the classes and sub-classes. [37098/10]

The following table provides data on the total number of contributors to the Social Insurance Fund together with a breakdown of this figure by PRSI class type and sets out the benefit coverage relevant to each class. The figures for 2008 represent the most recent end-of-year returns received from the Office of the Revenue Commissioners for both employees and self-employed contributors. Annualised information in relation to PRSI sub-classes is not readily available.

PRSI Class

Coverage

Numbers of contributors insured — 2008

Male

Female

Total

A

All benefits.

1,234,046

1,163,152

2,397,198

B

Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension, Guardian’s Payment (Contributory), Bereavement Grant, Carer’s Benefit & limited Occupational Injuries Benefits.

16,400

12,021

28,421

C

Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension, Guardian’s Payment (Contributory), Bereavement Grant & Carer’s Benefit.

745

139

884

D

Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension, Guardian’s Payment (Contributory), Bereavement Grant, Carer’s Benefit & Occupational Injuries Benefits.

34,855

44,357

79,212

E

All benefits except Jobseeker’s Benefit, Bereavement Grant & Occupational Injuries Benefits.

135

31

166

H

All benefits on discharge. Treatment Benefit, Bereavement Grant, Carer’s Benefit & Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension (in certain cases) during service.

8,093

425

8,518

J

Occupational Injuries Benefits.

16,901

17,016

33,917

K

None. Class K consists of Health Levy.

30,890

11,842

42,732

M

Occupational Injuries Benefits in certain circumstances.

106,107

72,700

178,807

P

Treatment Benefit & limited Jobseeker’s and Illness Benefit.

14

0

14

S

Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension, Guardian’s Payment (Contributory), State Pension (Contributory), Bereavement Grant, Maternity Benefit & Adoptive Benefit.

262,078

74,109

336,187

Voluntary Contributors

High rate: State Pension (Transition) + (Contributory), Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension, Guardian’s Payment & Bereavement Grant.

1,367

919

2,286

Low rate: Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension, Guardian’s Payment (Contributory) & Bereavement Grant.

TOTAL

1,711,631

1,396,711

3,108,342

Social Welfare Benefits

Michael Ring

Question:

374 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection the checks, if any, carried out on applicants of rent allowance to ensure that there is no issue regarding anti-social behaviour in previous tenancies and to ensure that the applicants or members of the household are not already in receipt of rent allowance elsewhere concurrently. [37111/10]

Michael Noonan

Question:

395 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will arrange that when responsibility for rent supplement is transferred from the Health Service Executive to his Department, adherence to a code of conduct for tenants will be a prerequisite for eligibility and that tenants who break the code will lose the supplement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37550/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 374 and 395 together.

The purpose of the rent supplement scheme is to provide short-term support to eligible people living in private rented accommodation, whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation costs and who do not have accommodation available to them from another source.

Social welfare legislation provides the Health Service Executive with the authority to refuse, suspend or terminate payment of a rent supplement in the case of a person who has been required to deliver up possession of a dwelling provided by a housing authority; this can include, for example, anti-social behaviour by the tenant.

In the case of private rented accommodation, tenancy arrangements involve a contract between the landlord and tenant. In these instances, tenant behaviour is a consideration for the landlord. There are a number of avenues open to landlords to resolve issues pertaining to poor conduct of tenants, including the mediation service operated by the Private Residential Tenancies Board and/or recourse to the Garda Siochana and/or the Courts in relation to the enforcement of the law in dealing with anti-social behaviour. If necessary, the landlord may seek termination of the tenancy which, if affected, would result in the termination of rent supplement.

When a person presents themselves to a community welfare officer for rent supplement their RSI number and their social welfare history are reviewed. This process also takes into account the social welfare histories of their spouse and dependent children. This review ensures, as much as possible, that members of the same household do not claim rent supplement concurrently.

Michael Ring

Question:

375 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons, on a county basis, who are currently in receipt of rent allowance and confirm the average payment made in each county; the annual cost to the Department by county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37112/10]

The following tabular statement shows the current number of recipients and average payment of rent supplement by county. Details of expenditure on rent supplement are not available on a county basis.

Recipients and Average Payment of Rent Supplement by County, 8 October 2010

County

Recipients

Average Rent Supplement Payment

Carlow

1,478

87.30

Cavan

1,068

74.81

Clare

1,888

77.74

Cork

10,855

89.53

Donegal

3,199

73.17

Dublin

33,338

131.44

Galway

4,758

84.03

Kerry

2,299

77.72

Kildare

4,294

119.49

Kilkenny

1,547

81.66

Laois

1,133

82.54

Leitrim

528

63.01

Limerick

3,918

81.74

Longford

779

69.63

Louth

2,548

87.71

Mayo

3,053

88.36

Meath

2,511

98.21

Monaghan

617

70.57

Offaly

1,243

79.79

Roscommon

1,279

79.31

Sligo

772

67.27

Tipperary

2,643

78.35

Waterford

2,287

79.61

Westmeath

1,618

71.75

Wexford

3,918

88.31

Wicklow

2,559

120.96

Total

96,130

102.56

Michael Ring

Question:

376 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection when jobseeker’s benefit will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [37134/10]

The person concerned applied for jobseeker's benefit on 13 September, 2010 and her entitlement is currently being examined. When all enquiries are completed a decision will be made as soon as possible and she will be notified of the outcome.

Question No. 377 withdrawn.

Departmental Correspondence

Brian O'Shea

Question:

378 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will deliver on the five priority issues that carers’ families are seeking to be delivered in the 2011 Budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37167/10]

The five priority issues identified in the correspondence from the Carers Association are:

"Hands off" the half rate carer's allowance and the respite care grant;

Protect carer's allowance and carer's benefit and address anomalies in qualifying criteria;

Enhance and support carers' health and wellbeing;

Provide comprehensive supports for family carers, including young carers; and

Publish the National Carer's Strategy.

The Government is acutely aware and appreciative of the contribution made by carers. It was for that reason, that when resources were available, we invested heavily in improving social welfare rates and services for carers.

The carer's allowance rate for carers over 66 years of age was not changed in this year's budget and remains at €239. The rate of carer's allowance for someone under 66 is €212.

Since the introduction of the carer's allowance in 1990 payments to carers have been increased and expanded. Carer's allowance was increased in 2007, 2008 and 2009 by 12.1%, 6.5% and 3.3%, respectively. As a result, even with the reduction announced in the last Budget for carers under 66, the weekly rate of payment for the carer's allowance is still almost 20% higher this year than in 2006 and more than 147% higher than in 1997.

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

These levels surpass the ‘Towards 2016' commitment to ensure those on average industrial earnings continue to qualify for a full carer's allowance.

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

In September 2007 a new half-rate carer's allowance was introduced for certain people with another social welfare entitlement. This allowance was introduced following commitments given in "Towards 2016" and recommendations made by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Social and Family Affairs in the "Report on the Position of Full-Time Carers". As well as increases in the rates of payment and improvements in the means testing arrangements over the period from 2000, the introduction of the half-rate entitlement has been, by far, the most significant and costly development in support for carers in recent years. This new payment was the primary driver in a 26% increase in the number of recipients in 2008 as well as a 9% increase in 2009. As of August 2010 there were 20,106 people in receipt of a half rate carers payment or 40% of all carer's allowance recipients.

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

The other issues identified are primarily the responsibility of the Department of Health and Children. The Government will continue to support carers within the resources available. It would not be appropriate for me to comment further on budgetary proposals at this stage. Full consideration will, of course, be given to the impact of any proposals on the recipients involved.

Employment Support Services

Michael Ring

Question:

379 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo who is receiving the back to work enterprise allowance will be awarded a grant under the technical assistance and training fund. [37212/10]

The person concerned has been approved for a grant of €1000 under the technical assistance and training fund. Payment will issue shortly.

Social Insurance

John O'Mahony

Question:

380 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Social Protection if persons on vocational training opportunities scheme courses are allowed to pay social insurance contributions into the national Social Insurance Fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37237/10]

Workers are insured under the Social Welfare Acts as either employed or self-employed contributors. All workers, both employed and self-employed, are obliged to pay PRSI contributions as a percentage of their personal reckonable income.

Participation in a Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) course is not, in general, regarded as employment or self-employment. Consequently participants in such courses are not insurable under the PRSI system.

However, subject to certain criteria, credited contributions may be awarded to individuals who are engaged in approved training or educational programmes, such as a VTOS course.

Credited contributions form an integral part of the social insurance system. They are designed to protect the social insurance entitlement record of insured workers who for reasons relating to either incapacity, ill-health, unemployment, professional training or the provision of care, are not in a position to make PRSI contributions.

Social Welfare Benefits

Arthur Morgan

Question:

381 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will made on an application for supplementary welfare allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37245/10]

The supplementary welfare allowance scheme (SWA) is administered on behalf of the Department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive (HSE). Apart from a number of excluded categories, anyone in the State who satisfies a habitual residency condition (HRC) and a means test, has registered for employment, unless they have a physical or mental disability, and can prove unemployment may qualify for a weekly payment of SWA.

However, subject to the provisions of EU law which apply to EEA workers, SWA cannot at any time be viewed as a temporary or interim means of income support available independently of HRC, while an applicant awaits the outcome of either a decision — or an appeal against a decision — on a claim for a social welfare payment from the Department.

The HSE has advised that the person concerned applied for SWA in May 2010 but his application was refused, as in the opinion of the HSE, the person concerned was deemed not to be habitually resident based on an assessment of his particular circumstances.

The HSE further advised that the person concerned appealed the decision to the HSE Appeals Office in June 2010. The Appeals Office upheld the decision to refuse SWA on the basis that the person concerned could not prove habitual residency. An appeal by the person concerned was forwarded to the Social Welfare Appeals Office in August 2010. Every effort is being made to have this appeal determined as quickly as possible.

Question No. 382 withdrawn.

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

383 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37306/10]

The Department has contracts in place for 1,801 individual voice and data links with Eircom. The total cost of these contracts was some €6m in 2009. Officials in the Department are currently preparing a tender for the provision of all such links and this is due to be published before the end of the year.

The Department also has a private fibre network connecting Dublin headquarter buildings and following a public tendering exercise last year, the contract for provision and maintenance of this network was awarded to Aurora Telecom. The cost of this contract will be over €150,000 in 2010.

The Department also has contracts in place, under the central mobile phone framework, with Vodafone and O2 for the provision of mobile phone service and these cost under €480,000 in 2009.

Details relating voice and data links for Agencies under the aegis of the Department are as follows.

Social Welfare Tribunal

The Social Welfare Tribunal does not hold any contracts with telecommunication providers.

Citizens Information Board

The Citizens Information Board holds three contracts with telecommunications providers, details as follows:

1. Mobile Telecommunications

Provider:

O2

Value:

€21,500 per annum (Estimated Value)

Payable:

On receipt of regular invoice, by electronic funds transfer (EFT)

Awarded:

27th August 2009

Start Date:

1st November 2009

Duration:

18 months

2. Fixed Voice

Provider:

Vodafone

Value:

Drawdown Agreement*

Payable:

On receipt of regular invoice, by electronic funds transfer (EFT)

Awarded:

13th August 2010

Start Date:

31st August 2010

Duration:

24 months

3. Data Services

Provider:

Vodafone

Value:

Drawdown Agreement*

Payable:

On receipt of regular invoice, by electronic funds transfer (EFT)

Awarded:

14th October 2010

Start Date:

1st November 2010

Duration:

24 months

*The estimated value of these contracts combined, based on actual expenditure to date, is anticipated to be in the region of €600,000 per annum.

Pensions Board

Telecommunications Provider

Details

Financial Agreements

Vodaphone

Mobile Phones and Mobile Broadband service

Ongoing contract with monthly payments at the per minute rate as supplied to government departments.

Eircom

Fixed Line Rental, calls and DSL Broadband (Backup connection)

Ongoing contract with monthly payments (talk time for business package).

Eircom

Government network connection

Three year contract. Billed annually.

Annual cost €9,408.

BT

Support and maintenance of phone system

Three year contract billed on a bi-annual basis.

Annual cost €1,270.

Pensions Ombudsman

The telecommunication providers to the Office of the Pensions Ombudsman are Eircom in respect of fixed line telecom communications and Vodafone mobile phone communications provided through the Department.

The financial agreements for telecoms are at the same rate as supplied to government departments with standard fixed line telecoms contract with Eircom and mobile service with Vodafone.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

384 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with energy providers; if he will to provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37321/10]

The energy requirements of Government Departments, Offices and Agencies were catered for by the former Government Supplies Agency (GSA). The National Procurement Service has subsumed responsibility for GSA contracts.

Details of the energy contracts are indicated as follows.

Supplier

Contract

Date

Contract Value 2008

Contract Value 2009

Electricity

ESB.ie Energia

PS 77

01/07/07

12,839,433

11,814,275

Natural Gas

Bórd Gáis Éireann

PS 117

01/04/07

10,013,674

6,292,002

LPG

Flo Gas

PS 112

01/08/06

1,324,716

793,446

Liquid Fuels Bulk

Topaz

PS 113

01/03/07

6,791,308

4,926,011

Automotive Fuel Charge Card

Topaz

PS142

01/05/09

0

3,754,575

Supply of energy to central government sites continues through these contracts to date.

All energy contracts are awarded following a competitive tendering process.

The financial arrangements (procurement model) associated with these contracts are based on discounts from benchmark industry pricing standards.

Competitions for electricity and natural gas frameworks have just concluded and will supersede the existing arrangements.

The Citizens Information Board currently has a 10 month contract with Energia which commenced on 31 May 2010 for the supply of electricity, at an estimated cost of €60,000 per annum. It also has an ongoing arrangement with Bord Gais for the supply of gas at an estimated value of €8,500 per annum.

The Pensions Board has an ongoing contract with the ESB for the supply of electricity with monthly payments at the general purpose business tariff rate.

Social Welfare Code

Róisín Shortall

Question:

385 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection the guidelines in place regarding a situation where a jobseeker refuses employment that would yield the same or lower net income than the net income enjoyed on welfare. [37327/10]

In order to qualify for a jobseeker's payment, a person must satisfy certain conditions which include being available for and genuinely seeking work. If a customer fails or refuses to take up a reasonable offer of employment, he or she may be disqualified for payment for up to nine weeks.

In determining whether steps taken to seek employment have been reasonable, the Deciding Officer considers all the circumstances of the case including the nature and conditions of the employment sought, the individual circumstances of the customer and the local economic environment. Particular matters which must be taken into account are the person's skills, qualification and work experience, the period of unemployment, the efforts made in previous weeks to seek employment, the availability and location of job vacancies, and the person's family circumstances. While these conditions relate to the efforts made by customers to seek employment, they are also applied in determining whether a person has been made an offer of suitable employment.

There are a number of supports in place to assist people to move into employment. For example, the part-time job incentive scheme allows people who are long-term unemployed to take up part-time employment for less than 24 hours per week and receive a special weekly income supplement called the part-time job allowance. Participants in this scheme are expected to continue to make efforts to find full-time work.

Family income supplement (FIS) is a weekly tax-free payment for families at work on low pay. Persons on FIS may also qualify for the smokeless fuel payment and the back to school clothing and footwear allowance.

Revenue Job Assist is an additional tax allowance for people in Ireland who have been unemployed for 12 months or more and who are now returning to employment. An extra tax allowance can be claimed for each qualifying child. The tax allowance can be claimed for 3 tax years and may begin with either the tax year in which the employment commences or the following tax year.

In addition, various payments or supplements can be made to people in employment under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, subject to certain conditions.

Question No. 386 withdrawn.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

387 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will provide information on the precise arrangements pertaining to welfare claimants who take up a community employment scheme; the welfare payments that are allowed to be retained in such a scenario and those that are not; and to provide details of any publications where the rules are set out in full [37354/10]

If a person takes up a position on a community employment scheme, it can impact on his or her social welfare entitlement in different ways, as the conditions for receipt of social welfare payments vary across the schemes.

Jobseeker's Allowance/Benefit

To qualify for jobseeker's allowance/benefit, a person must be unemployed, available for and genuinely seeking work. A person is disqualified from receiving jobseeker's allowance or benefit while employed under the community employment scheme.

Farm Assist

A person is disqualified from receiving farm assist while employed under the community employment scheme.

One Parent Family Payment

A person on a one parent family payment can take up employment on a community employment scheme and retain the one parent family payment. However, the income from the employment is subject to a means assessment. If the weekly income from employment is greater than the prescribed limit, currently €425 per week, the claim is disallowed. However, if the income from the employment is less than the prescribed limit, the weekly means from employment are assessed as follows: gross weekly income is calculated (less disregards for superannuation/ PRSA contributions, PRSI, the income levy, and trade union subscriptions). A disregard of €146.50 is then applied and half of the balance is assessed as means. The means that are applicable are deducted from the one parent family payment that applies in each case. However, if the means of the customer are greater than the family rate, the claim is disallowed.

Invalidity Pension

If a person is receiving invalidity pension, he or she must apply for an exemption to go on a community employment scheme. All first-time requests for exemptions to commence a community employment scheme are granted automatically. In all other cases, the application, together with a recommendation from the customer's doctor, and details of the proposed training/work are forwarded to a medical assessor of the department. The application is assessed and if the CE scheme is considered to have a rehabilitative or therapeutic benefit it may be allowed. If the person is granted an exemption, he/she may work on the scheme for less than 20 hours per week. He/she cannot commence a community employment scheme until an exemption is approved by the Department. The person retains their invalidity pension and any secondary benefits (except fuel allowance which is means tested) for the duration of the scheme.

Disablement Benefit

Disablement benefit recipients can continue working or attending a community employment scheme while in receipt of that payment.

Incapacity Supplement

If a person is in receipt of incapacity supplement, they must apply for an exemption to go on a community employment scheme. The application for an exemption is assessed under the same terms and conditions as for invalidity pension and, if granted, they will retain their incapacity supplement.

Illness Benefit

It is possible for a person who is in receipt of Illness Benefit for at least six months to apply for permission to work on a part-time basis (including on a Community Employment scheme) or to attend a training course. This exemption is given for rehabilitative or occupational therapy purposes. If a person is approved for an exemption, he/she retains the full Illness Benefit payment.

Disability Allowance

People in receipt of disability allowance, if approved by FÁS for participation on a community employment scheme, can retain their disability allowance payment subject to a means assessment. For the means assessment, the customer can avail of the earnings disregard in terms of the assessment of means from income for disability allowance purposes from employment of a rehabilitative nature, i.e., first €120 is not assessed and half the earnings between €120 and €350 is assessed.

Widow/er's Contributory Pension/Deserted Wife's Benefit

Widow/er's Contributory Pension is payable while the customer is on a community employment scheme provided the person is under 66 years of age. People over age 66 cannot participate in the community employment scheme.

Widows Non-Contributory Pension/Deserted Wife's Allowance

The first €100 of net weekly earnings from employment is disregarded. Net earnings are gross earnings less PRSI, Superannuation/PRSA contributions and union subscriptions.

State Pension (Contributory) and State Pension (Non-Contributory)

People over 66 years of age cannot participate in the community employment scheme.

State Pension (Transition)

The State Pension (Transition) is paid to people aged 65 who have retired from work and who have enough social insurance contributions. A person cannot be employed on a community employment scheme and continue to receive State Pension (Transition).

Blind Person's Pension

The first €120 of net weekly earnings from employment of a rehabilitative nature is disregarded, together with half of any additional earnings up to €350 per week. Net earnings are gross earnings less PRSI, Superannuation/PRSA contributions and union subscriptions.

Carers Allowance/Benefit

Carer's Allowance/Benefit is not payable to a person if they are on a community scheme. The full rules covering eligibility conditions for receipt of all schemes are outlined on the department's website — www.welfare.ie.

Social Welfare Benefits

Róisín Shortall

Question:

388 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons receiving a jobseeker’s payment that is not in respect of a full working week. [37367/10]

61,920 casuals/part-time workers were in payment on Live Register on 24th September, 2010 (i.e. in receipt of jobseeker's benefit or jobseeker's allowance).

Social Welfare Code

Joe McHugh

Question:

389 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Social Protection the situation regarding persons on disability payment who have reached of 65 years and must wait until their 66th birthday before they can receive old age pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37368/10]

The position is that where a person in receipt of a disability-related payment, such as Invalidity Pension, Illness Benefit or Disability Allowance, continues to satisfy the qualifying conditions for that scheme, the pension or allowance continues to be paid up to age 66, at which point the person concerned can apply for a State Pension (Contributory) or State Pension (Non-Contributory) as appropriate.

Joe McHugh

Question:

390 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Social Protection the incentives for self-employed persons who contribute class A stamps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37369/10]

Self-employed workers are liable for PRSI at the Class S rate of 3%. Class S contributions provide cover for long-term benefits such as State pension (contributory) and widow's/widower's pension (contributory).

They do not provide cover for short-term benefits such as jobseeker's and illness benefits — these are only available to people covered by PRSI Classes A, E, H and P. This reflects the need for coverage for various contingencies, the lower rate of contributions that self-employed people pay, the practicalities of administering and controlling access to short-term payments and the annualised system of contributions that this group enjoy. A system of separate arrangements for employed and self-employed workers within a social insurance context is common in other European social protection systems.

In certain cases, a self-employed person, who had insurable employment in the relevant year, currently 2008, and had paid sufficient Class A contributions, may qualify for a jobseeker's benefit payment, provided all the conditions of the scheme are satisfied.

A self-employed person who has paid insufficient Class A contributions may instead qualify for jobseeker's allowance. Jobseeker's allowance is a means-tested payment and, in assessing a person's means for the purposes of this allowance, account is taken of all income which the person may reasonably expect to receive during the succeeding year. In general, their means will take account of the level of earnings in the last twelve months in determining their expected income for the following year. In the current climate, account is taken of the downward trend in the economy and it is accepted that future earnings may be lower than those of previous years. The process also recognises the potential for significant upward or downward variations in income from one year to the next. There are no immediate plans to extend cover for short-term benefits to this group of insured workers. Any such measure would have significant financial implications and would have to be considered within a budgetary context. Consideration would also have to be given to an appropriate increase in the rate of the PRSI Class S contribution.

David Stanton

Question:

391 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Social Protection if it is his policy that in a situation where a married couple have separated and one partner continues to pay the mortgage on the family home if payment of that mortgage is considered income when calculating the means in relation to an application for back to school clothing and footwear allowance by the partner who continues to live in the family home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37371/10]

The back to school clothing and footwear allowance (BSCFA) scheme provides a one-off payment to eligible families to assist with the extra costs when their children start school each autumn. The allowance is not intended to meet the full cost of school clothing and footwear but only to provide assistance towards these costs. A person may qualify for payment of an allowance if they are in receipt of a social welfare or Health Service Executive (HSE) payment, or are participating in an approved employment scheme or attending a recognised education and training course and have household income at below standard levels.

All income from earnings should be assessed under normal supplementary welfare allowance (SWA) rules. Mortgage payments, or income provided by a spouse (or ex-spouse) to an individual to pay for a mortgage are not disregarded for the purpose of calculating household income for the BSCFA scheme.

Joe Carey

Question:

392 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Social Protection if a decision has been made regarding the payment of Christmas bonuses to social welfare recipients in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37411/10]

The Supplementary Budget of April 2009 provided for the discontinuance of the Christmas bonus. No provision has been made for the payment of a Christmas bonus in the 2010 Estimates.

Social Welfare Benefits

Finian McGrath

Question:

393 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will examine the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [37544/10]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing in this case. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made.

There was a 46% increase in the number of appeals received by the Social Welfare Appeals Office in 2009 when compared to 2008, which in itself was 27% greater than the numbers received in 2007. There was an increase of a further 44% in the number of appeals received in the first eight months of 2010. These increases have caused delays in the processing of appeals. In order to be fair to all appellants, oral hearings are arranged in strict chronological order.

A number of initiatives have been put in place to enhance the capacity of the office to deal with the current caseload and inflows. In that regard:

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

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

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

A project to improve the business processes in the office was undertaken which has resulted in a number of improvements being implemented, and

Significant enhancements have been made to the office's IT and phone systems.

In addition, it was decided to use experienced retired staff strictly on a short term basis to supplement the current resources and the services of eight retired officers have now been secured on a part-time basis and have been operating since July.

I am assured by the Chief Appeals Officer that she is keeping current processes under continuous review with a view to achieving a more effective throughput of appeals, while ensuring that any progress does not conflict with due process in terms of the rights of appellants and adherence to the requirements of natural justice.

The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Social Welfare Appeals

Michael Ring

Question:

394 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection when a jobseeker’s allowance appeal will be finalised in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [37548/10]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 5 May 2010. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought. These papers were received back in the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 15 October 2010 and the appeal will be referred in due course to an Appeals Officer who will decide whether the case can be decided on a summary basis or whether to list it for oral hearing.

The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Question No. 395 answered with Question No. 374.

Social Welfare Benefits

Jack Wall

Question:

396 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for domicilary care allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37561/10]

An application for domiciliary care allowance was received by the Department on 13th September 2010. This application together with medical reports has been forwarded to one of the Department's Medical Assessors for a medical opinion on the case. Upon receipt of this opinion a decision will issue to the person concerned. Currently it takes approximately seven weeks to process an application.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

397 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social Protection the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of his Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37574/10]

No agencies or offices have been established under the aegis of my Department since 2007.

State Companies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

398 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social Protection the new State-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of his Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37589/10]

No state-owned companies have been established under the aegis of my Department since 2007.

Social Welfare Benefits

Michael Noonan

Question:

399 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason domiciliary care allowance was refused in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; if they may appeal the decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37605/10]

An application for domiciliary care allowance (DCA) was received on the 7th July 2010 from the person in question. This application was referred to one of the Department's Medical Assessors who found that her child was not medically eligible for DCA.

A letter issued to the person in question on the 15th September 2010 where she was advised of the decision to refuse DCA. In the case of an application which is refused on medical grounds, the applicant may submit additional information and/or ask for the case to be reviewed or she may appeal the decision directly to the Social Welfare Appeals Office within 21 days.

Social Welfare Appeals

Martin Ferris

Question:

400 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Social Protection when an appeal for domiciliary care allowance will be heard in respect of a person (details supplied). [37629/10]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned has been referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing in the case. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made.

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.

Pat Breen

Question:

401 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be facilitated with an oral hearing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37650/10]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing in this case. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made.

There was a 46% increase in the number of appeals received by the Social Welfare Appeals Office in 2009 when compared to 2008, which in itself was 27% greater than the numbers received in 2007. There was an increase of a further 44% in the number of appeals received in the first eight months of 2010. These increases have caused delays in the processing of appeals. In order to be fair to all appellants, oral hearings are arranged in strict chronological order.

A number of initiatives have been put in place to enhance the capacity of the office to deal with the current caseload and inflows. In that regard:

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

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

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

A project to improve the business processes in the office was undertaken which has resulted in a number of improvements being implemented, and

Significant enhancements have been made to the office's IT and phone systems.

In addition, it was decided to use experienced retired staff strictly on a short term basis to supplement the current resources and the services of eight retired officers have now been secured on a part-time basis and have been operating since July.

I am assured by the Chief Appeals Officer that she is keeping current processes under continuous review with a view to achieving a more effective throughput of appeals, while ensuring that any progress does not conflict with due process in terms of the rights of appellants and adherence to the requirements of natural justice.

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.

Departmental Statistics

Niall Collins

Question:

402 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Social Protection the total number of persons on the live register as of 30 September 2010 by age category and by group showing those not working, those working, one day, two days, three days and four days; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37704/10]

The information requested by the deputy is contained in the tabular statement below for the week ending 24th September, which is a further breakdown of the most recent published CSO Live Register information.

Statistics on the daily patterns of casual registrants within the 1-4 day group identified in the tabular statement are not routinely kept by the Department. The most recent analysis of these daily patterns was in respect of jobseekers allowance and job seekers benefit casual claims from the first three weeks of August 2010. Based on this analysis, 25 per cent of claimants were paid benefits for three days, 17 per cent were paid for four days, 12 per cent were paid for 5 days and 15 per cent were paid for 6 days.

Live Register Analysis for Week-Ending: — 24/09/2010

Live Register

Persons Not Working

Persons Working 1-4 Days

Total

<20

13,731

1,193

14,924

20-24

61,835

11,904

73,739

25-34

115,227

26,259

141,486

35-44

79,250

16,844

96,094

45-54

55,636

12,794

68,430

55-59

22,063

4,562

26,625

60-64

17,924

3,195

21,119

Total

365,666

76,751

442,417

Mary Upton

Question:

403 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Social Protection the average time taken in 2010 to date to process an application for carer’s allowance and carer’s benefit; the percentage of applications that were refused on first application for each; the percentage of refused applications that have been appealed; the percentage that were allowed on appeal; the time it takes to process an appeal; if he will indicate the shortest time within which an appeal was processed; the longest time within which an appeal has been processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37708/10]

The average time taken to assess a claim for carer's allowance between January 2010 and the end of September 2010 is 9 weeks. The target of the scheme is set at 90% in 12 weeks and the standard achieved for 2010 to date is 78% in 12 weeks. A total of 13,894 applications were received in 2010 to date and a total of 11,541 have being decided. 45% of the total claims decided were refused on first application and 41% of this number was appealed to the Social Welfare Appeals Office.

In the case of Carer's Benefit, the average time to assess a claim was 9.2 weeks during the same period. The percentage of claims refused on first application was 34%, of which 32% were appealed.

I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that a total of 1,724 carer's appeals were finalised in that Office from 1 January to 30 September 2010. The table below gives a breakdown of the outcome of these appeals.

Outcome of Carers' Appeals received 1 January to 30 September 2010

Number

%

Allowed or partially allowed by Appeals Officer

420

24.4

Revised by Deciding Officer following appeal

454

26.3

Disallowed byAppeals Officer

809

46.9

Appeal withdrawn

41

2.4

Total number of Carers’ appeals received to date in 2010

1,724

The average time taken to process Carer's allowance appeals by the Social Welfare Appeals Office is 29 weeks and 25 weeks for Carer's benefit. There are no figures available on the shortest or longest time to process an appeal.

There was a 46% increase in the overall number of appeals received by the Social Welfare Appeals Office in 2009 when compared to 2008, which in itself was 27% greater than the numbers received in 2007. There was an increase of a further 44% in the number of appeals received in the first eight months of 2010. While this growth is clearly impacting on processing times, it must also be remembered that these processing times cover all phases of the appeal process including the submission by the Department of its comments on the grounds for the appeal and, in the case of some Carers appeals, a second assessment must be carried out by the Department's Medical Assessors.

On the return of the papers and comments to the Social Welfare Appeals Office the case is referred to an Appeals Officer who will either make a summary decision based on the documentary evidence or, if s/he considers it necessary, will list the case for oral hearing.

Given the logistics involved in organising an oral hearing, a considerable period of time is added to the process. In order to be fair to all appellants, the vetting of appeals and the arranging of oral hearings are being dealt with in chronological order.

A number of initiatives have been put in place to enhance the capacity of the office to deal with the current caseload and inflows. In that regard:

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

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

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

A project to improve the business processes in the office was undertaken which has resulted in a number of improvements being implemented, and

Significant enhancements have been made to the office's IT and phone systems.

In addition, it was decided to use experienced retired staff strictly on a short term basis to supplement the current resources and the services of eight retired officers have now been secured on a part-time basis and have been operating since July.

I am assured by the Chief Appeals Officer that she is keeping current processes under continuous review with a view to achieving a more effective throughput of appeals, while ensuring that any progress does not conflict with due process in terms of the rights of appellants and adherence to the requirements of natural justice.

Post Office Payments

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

404 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will monitor the effect on pensioners and others on low fixed incomes of the decision of Eircom to introduce a €20 minimum for the payment of bills in post offices; if he will make representations to Eircom to reverse this decision, in view of the hardship it will cause to many who make small but regular payments in their post offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37723/10]

The Department of Social Protection is committed to delivering a high quality service for all customers. Over fifty per cent of our payments are delivered through An Post.

An Post operate a Household Budgeting Service on behalf of the Department which is a useful option for people looking to manage their household bills. This is a free, easy to use service and aimed at social welfare customers, collecting their payment with their Social Services Card through An Post. Some 23,000 social welfare customers who receive their money through the Post Office avail of this service.

Under the scheme customers can commit a fixed amount of their weekly social welfare payment towards any number of utility bills, including ESB, Board Gais, Eircom and Local Authority rents or mortgages. I have been assured by An Post that the minimum payments for Eircom bills of €3.50 per week still applies to social welfare customers who continue to avail of the Household Budgeting Service.

The Department also provides a free rental telephone allowance, under the Household Benefits package, which provides assistance towards customers telephone bills. The package is generally available to people living in the State, aged 66 years or over who are in receipt of a social welfare payment or who satisfy a means test. It is also available to people aged under 66 who are in receipt of certain social welfare disability payments or Carer's Allowance.

The Department would not be in a position to monitor the effects of the new Eircom minimum payment currently in operation in An Post.

Social Welfare Benefits

James Bannon

Question:

405 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for back to work enterprise allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37737/10]

The Department has no record of an application for Back to Work Enterprise Allowance being made by the person concerned. He should contact his Local Social Welfare Office in Athlone if wishes to make an application for the allowance.

Social Welfare Appeals

Martin Ferris

Question:

406 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding the outcome of an appeal for domiciliary care allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) [37900/10]

An application for Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA) was received on the 3 rd August 2010 from the person in question. This application was referred to one of the Department's Medical Assessors who found that her child was not medically eligible for DCA.

A letter advising of the decision to refuse DCA issued to the person in question on the 25 th September 2010. In the case of an application which is refused on medical grounds, the applicant may submit additional information and/or ask for the case to be reviewed or they may appeal the decision directly to the Social Welfare Appeals Office within 21 days.

The applicant in this case has not sought to have the decision reviewed and no appeal of the decision has been received to date.

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

407 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will provide details of the number of civil servants in each Department who are currently e-working; his plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if he will provide details of the numbers of civil servants he would hope to have e-working by end 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38201/10]

Due to the wide distribution of its offices and the importance of communications, the Department has invested in video-conferencing facilities in headquarters offices throughout the country and mobile working devices (notebook computers and/or smartphones) to reduce the amount of travel required from its staff, however, the Department does not have a formal scheme of e-working.

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

408 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the number of contracts held by her Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if she will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37309/10]

My Department has three office locations: the Departmental headquarters offices in Killarney, Co. Kerry and Kildare Street, Dublin 2 and the National Archives of Ireland, which is part of the Department, at Bishop Street, Dublin. In respect of the two Departmental headquarters offices, there are currently telecommunications contracts in effect with Eircom and Smart Telecom. The Eircom contract is for landline telephony and data network provision and services while the Smart Telecom contract is for data network provision and services.

My Department is currently assessing tenders submitted for the provision of landline telephony services under the National Framework for the Supply of Fixed Voice and Voice over IP Services plus Associated Products and Associated Services.

The Department's contracts with both Eircom and Smart Telecom in respect of data network provision and services were agreed in 2008 following the completion of a procurement process carried out in accordance with Public Procurement regulation and guidelines.

In 2010 to date, the Departmental headquarters have expended the following in respect of these contracts:

Eircom: €88,902;

Smart Telecom: €32,699.

In the case of the National Archives, a telecommunications contract is in effect with Eircom. To the end of September, 2010, €13,229 has been expended in respect of this contract. During 2010, the National Archives availed of the rates currently available under the National Framework for the Supply of Fixed Voice and Voice over IP Services plus Associated Products and Associated Services.

Both the Department headquarters and the National Archives have mobile telecommunications contracts in effect and I refer the Deputy to my recent reply on the 29th September 2010 to PQ Ref. No. 33646/10, which outlines the situation regarding these contracts.

It has not been possible in the time available to provide the information requested in relation to the agencies under the aegis of my Department but I am asking them to supply the details to the Deputy at an early date.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

409 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the number of contracts held by her Department and its agencies with energy providers; if she will to provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37324/10]

My Department has three office locations: the Departmental headquarters offices in Killarney, Co. Kerry and Kildare Street, Dublin 2 and the National Archives of Ireland, which is part of the Department, at Bishop Street. Dublin. Aside from a number of very small supplementary (i.e. solar-power) and backup energy provision systems, the Department headquarters has contracts in effect with Energia in respect of its electricity requirements and with Clearpower for its wood-pellet heating system.

The contract with Energia was agreed in May 2010 following completion of a procurement process carried out in accordance with Public Procurement regulation and guidelines. The amount payable is based on usage and since May the Department has expended €6,413 on its electricity costs.

The contract with Clearpower, which includes supply and servicing, was agreed by the Office of Public Works on behalf of the Department. To date in 2010 €7,321 has been expended on foot of this contract.

In the case of the Departmental offices in Kildare Street, the main tenant in the building is the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation which deals with contracts in relation to energy provision with my Department paying a percentage of the costs incurred.

In the case of the National Archives, energy costs are payable to ESB and Bord Gáis. The National Archives has standard contractual arrangements with these entities, and the amount payable is dependent on usage. In 2010, up to end of September, the following amounts have been paid:

ESB: €57,983;

Bord Gáis: €30,367.

The National Archives is investigating options for more economically advantageous energy costs in 2011. In tandem with this, the National Archives is implementing the Office of Public Works' "Optimizing Power @ Work" energy campaign which has already resulted in energy savings in 2010 and will continue to do so in 2011 and beyond.

It has not been possible in the time available to provide the information requested in relation to the agencies under the aegis of my Department but I am asking them to supply the details directly to the Deputy at an early date.

National Development Plan

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

410 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the number of applications received for grant funding for activity and adventure projects under the national development plan; the details of the projects; the number that were granted and to whom; the amount allocated. [37410/10]

Within the remit of my Department, the National Development Plan (NDP) 2007-2013 makes provision for allocations to the Tourism Programme, Culture Sub-Programme and Sports Sub-Programme. The objective of the Tourism Programme is to invest in international marketing, in the development of tourism product and infrastructure, and in training and human resources.

My Department's role in the Culture Sub-Programme relates to the development of Ireland's cultural infrastructure. The aim is to protect and showcase our cultural heritage, to support the Government's policy on universal access to arts and cultural facilities and to assist the tourism industry in product development in this area.

Similarly, the Sports Sub-Programme seeks to develop our sports infrastructure by providing grants for a range of sports bodies at the local and regional level, including swimming pool facilities, and by providing supports and facilities that will allow Irish athletes to compete internationally at the highest level. The Sub-Programme also seeks to develop national-level sports facilities.

Details of NDP allocations in respect of these measures are as set out in tabular form below.

NDP Measure

Year 2007 Allocation

Year 2008 Allocation

Year 2009 Allocation

€ million

€ million

€ million

Tourism Programme

78.750

85.700

74.361

Culture Sub-Programme

65.000

64.880

39.641

Sports Sub-Programme

154.805

183.000

82.333

Due to the large number of applications received for grant funding across the three NDP measures, the information in the manner sought by the Deputy is not readily available within the timeframe involved. However, details of grant funding awarded are available through the Department's website at www.tcs.gov.ie and through the relevant websites of the Agencies under its remit. If the Deputy wishes to obtain information on any specific project/s I would be happy to provide such information.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

411 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of her Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37577/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

412 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the new State-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of her Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37592/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 411 and 412 together.

One new agency has been established under the aegis of my Department since 1 January 2007, namely, the National Sports Campus Development Authority (NSCDA). The NSCDA replaced Campus and Stadium Ireland Development Limited. The annual allocations (Estimates provisions) to the NSCDA for the years 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 are as set out in tabular form below.

Year 2007

Year 2008

Year 2009

Year 2010

Allocation

€22,198,000

€6,710,000

€4,398,000

€7,754,000

No new State-owned company has been established or comes under the aegis of my Department since 1 January 2007.

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

413 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if she will provide details of the number of civil servants in each Department who are currently e-working; her plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if she will provide details of the numbers of civil servants she would hope to have e-working by end 2013; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38203/10]

There are no civil servants in my Department currently e-working and while the matter will be reviewed in the context of the upcoming revision of the Department's human resource strategy and any future demand for such arrangements, there are no plans at present for any civil servants to avail of e-working.

Local Authority Housing

Brendan Howlin

Question:

414 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the fact that as many properties are unsaleable in current market conditions, their real value at the moment is no more than the rental income which they generate; if he will amend the means assessment formula to take account of this reality; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37154/10]

The timing mismatch between the collapse in demand for housing and the less rapid slowing of construction output has led to a situation in which there is now an overhang of vacant, unsold property.

It is our intention to meet the accommodation needs of as many households as possible within the resources at our disposal. Oversupply of housing is a key factor in that regard, and there is potential to make economic necessity and the response to social need work in tandem by utilising unsold housing stock to accommodate families in need of social housing support.

In the context of rising social housing need, the priority must be to maximise delivery of social housing to cater for the greatest level of need at good value. The restructuring of the social housing investment programme to allow for a greater role for the Rental Accommodation Scheme and leasing offer the most effective and efficient response to both market realities and housing need, taking account of the resources available, current market conditions, and the need for a broader range of more flexible delivery mechanisms based on the life-cycle approach as set out in the Government's housing policy statement, Delivering Homes: Sustaining Communities.

Local Authority Funding

Pat Breen

Question:

415 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will increase funding to an authority (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37180/10]

I am providing some €870m in general purpose grants from the Local Government Fund to local authorities in 2010. These grants are my contribution to meeting the difference between the cost to local authorities of providing a reasonable level of day to day services and the income available to them from local sources and from specific grants.

Clare County Council's general purpose allocation for 2010 is €13,986,912, a reduction of 6.02% over the 2009 allocation. However, general purpose grants to Clare County Council have increased by some 381% since 1997, which is more than twice the average increase to local authorities over that period.

I am satisfied that the general purpose allocation I have provided to Clare County Council for 2010, together with the income available to it from other sources, will enable it to provide a reasonable level of services to its customers.

I will continue to contribute to the general purpose funding of local authorities to the best extent possible, having regard to the current pressures on the public finances and motor tax income. Local authorities will also continue to have access to an additional source of funding through the charge on non-principal private residences.

Grant Payments

Martin Ferris

Question:

416 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when hen harrier payment will be awarded to a person (details supplied). [37626/10]

The herd number supplied with the question does not relate to any participant in the NPWS Farm Plan Scheme. On receipt of more information regarding the applicant, my Department will confirm the situation in relation to the payment.

International Agreements

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

417 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on the UN Climate Change Conference hosted in October in Tianjin, China; Ireland’s position in those talks and prospects for progress towards the Framework Convention on Climate Change to be held in Cancun in November 2010. [36096/10]

The most recent round of negotiations under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) took place in Tianjin, China from 4 to 9 October 2010. According to the secretariat to the UNFCCC, the meeting was attended by some two and half thousand participants from more than 176 countries, including Government delegates, representatives from business and industry, environmental organisations and research institutions.

Views on the outcome of the Tianjin round of negotiations are mixed. The UNFCCC Executive Secretary considered that progress was made in defining what could be achieved, in terms of agreement on a structured set of decisions, at the upcoming 16th Conference of the Parties (COP 16) in Cancún, Mexico. In a statement following the Tianjin round, European Commissioner Connie Hedegaard considered progress to be patchy and much too slow.

At a scheduled Council meeting in Luxemburg on 14 October, EU Environment Ministers adopted conclusions in which the Council, inter alia, "notes the limited progress made at the Bonn and Tianjin sessions towards identifying elements of a balanced package in Cancún; emphasises that a very significant increase in the pace of the negotiations will be needed in order to reach a successful and balanced outcome in Cancún; in this context, expresses its support for the incoming Presidency of COP 16/CMP6 to take all the necessary initiatives in the run-up to and at the Cancún conference.".

Although progress overall in Tianjin was not encouraging, there will be at least eight days of further negotiations in advance of the high-level segment at COP 16. Ireland, through its membership of the European Union, will contribute to and proactively support efforts to reach a successful and ambitious outcome at the Cancún conference. On the outcome, I fully agree with the view expressed in the conclusions adopted on 14 October, that "there is a need for decisions that can be implemented immediately or in the near-term and for a work programme for the next steps, with a view to avoiding a gap after the first commitment period and agreeing on a global and comprehensive legally binding framework.".

Ministerial Appointments

Arthur Morgan

Question:

418 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government for details of all appointments to boards made by him since coming into office. [37142/10]

The bodies and agencies under the aegis of my Department, and the appointments made to them by me since my appointment in 2007, are as follows:

Name of State Body/Board

Names of Persons Appointed since July 2007

Affordable Homes Partnership*

Catherine Gorman

Conn Murray

An Bord Pleanála

Thomas O’Connor

Margaret Byrne

Building Regulations Advisory Board

Jay Stuart

Brian McKeon

Cian O’Lionáin

Jack Callanan

Jimmy Keogan

Mark McAuley

Noel Carroll

Sean Balfe

Jacqui Donnelly

Sarah Neary

Terry Prendergast

Insp Maria Walsh

Edel Collins

Kevin O’Rourke

An Chomhairle Leabharlanna

Senator Mark Dearey

Councillor Pat McMahon

Councillor Cora Long

Councillor Des Hurley

Councillor Michael Abbey

Councillor Jim Darcy

Deirdre Ellis-King

Ruth Flanagan

Colette O’Flaherty

Robin Adams

Jim Foran

Paul Sheehan

Gerardine Moloney

Councillor Billy Cameron

Pat McMahon

Fionnuala Hanrahan

Comhar Sustainable Development Council

Shirley Clerkin

Tom O’Mahony

Jackie Maguire

Micheal O’Cinneide

Dr Clare Penny

Emer Dunne

Ruaidhrí Deasy

David Korowicz

Frank Corcoran

Pat Finnegan

Jack O’Sullivan

Fr Sean Healy

Niamh Garvey

Elaine Nevin

Seamus Boland

Sue Scott

Deirdre McGrath

Prof Vincent O’Flaherty

Michael Layde

Mary Stack

Mairead Cirrillo

Finola McDonnell

Molly Walsh

Ann Irwin

Prof Ray Bates

Ciaran Byrne

Pat Farrell

Dr Matthew Crowe

John McCarthy

Designated Areas Appeals Advisory Board

Ciana Campbell, appointed as Co-Chair

Dublin Docklands Development Authority — Board

Gerry McCaughey

Prof. Niamh Brennan

Mark Griffin

Yvonne Farrell

Dublin Docklands Development Authority — Council

Deaglain O’ Brian

Maurice Scully

David Walsh

Greg Clarke

Niall Ring

Claire O’Regan

Ray McAdam

Anne Graham

Environmental Protection Agency**

Larry Stapleton

Micheal O’Cinneide

Mary Kelly

Laura Burke

Dara Lynott

Matthew Crowe

The Heritage Council

Conor Newman

Kealin Ireland

Dr Henry Lyons

Gráinne Shaffrey

Ian Lumley

Brian Lucas

Helen O’Carroll

Housing Finance Agency

John Bolger

Philip Nugent

Irish Water Safety

Laurence Kelly

Dave Corcoran

Limerick Northside Regeneration Agency

John Fitzgerald

Brendan Kenny

John Laffin

Kathleen Stack

Michelle Shannon

Mary Moloney

Tom Mackey

Alec Fleming

Ned Gleeson

Willie Keane

Anne Cremin

Paddy Flannery

Michael Tiernan

Pat Fitzgerald

Pat McSitric

Eddie Lewis

Nuala Kernan

Mary Donnelly

Tom Coughlan

Frank McGlynn

Thomas Mahon

Mary Tully

David Sheahan

Michael Layde

Limerick Southside Regeneration Agency

John Fitzgerald

Brendan Kenny

John Laffin

Kathleen Stack

Michelle Shannon

Mary Moloney

Tom Mackey

Alec Fleming

Ned Gleeson

Willie Keane

Fr. Pat Hogan

Ann Kavanagh

Liam McElligott

Pat Fitzgerald

Pat McSitric

Eddie Lewis

Anne Bourke

Mary Donnelly

Tom Coughlan

Frank McGlynn

Thomas Mahon

Mary Tully

David Sheahan

Michael Layde

Local Government Computer Services Board

Paul McDonald

Paul Lemass

Laurence Kelly

Barry Quinlan

Local Government Management Services Board

Martha Doyle

Paul Lemass

Paul McDonald

Joe Allen

Barry Quinlan

National Building Agency*

John McCarthy

Eddie Lewis

Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB)

Orla Coyne

Liam Gleeson

Aideen Hayden

Ciaran McNamara

Dr. Eoin O’Sullivan

Thomas J Reilly

Cian O Lionain

Dessie Larkin

Aidan Brennan

Finian Matthews

John Tiernan

Joan O’Dowd

Vincent P. Martin

Gene Feighery

Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII)

James Fitzmaurice

Nuala Ahern

Dr Maurice Fitzgerald

Dr Kevin Kelleher

Dr Éamann Breatnach

Darina Muckian

John O’Dea

Adi Roche

Dr Patrick Gilligan

Fionnuala Barker

Dr Stephanie Ryan

The Rent Tribunal

Moya Quinlan

Mary Doyle

Louise Moloney

Morette Kinsella

Kieran Buckley

William Stanbridge

Fred Devlin

Orla Coyne

Eoin O’Sullivan

Tom O’Reilly

Mary Heaslip

Fire Services Council

Brendan Mahon

Housing and Sustainable Communities Ltd***

Rich Howlin

Gordon Richards

Eddie Lewis

John O’Connor

*The Department is working closely with the Affordable Homes Partnership, the Centre for Housing Research and the National Building Agency with a view to establishing the Housing and Sustainable Communities Agency (HSCA) which will replace each of the above Agencies in 2011.

**Appointments to the EPA board are made by Government under Section 24 of the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992.

***Housing and Sustainable Communities Ltd was formed as a Private Single Member company subsidiary of the National Building Agency. It undertakes functions in relation to management of land arising as a result of the land aggregation scheme and leasing.

Local Authority Funding

Arthur Morgan

Question:

419 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason Louth County Council is restricted from lowering capital account balances below 2008 year end amounts and if he is satisfied that this local authority was forced to raise a loan for €1,521,000 as its contribution towards the water services capital programme. [37143/10]

My Department set out details of the financial requirements for local authorities relating to the overall management of their capital and current accounts in 2009 and 2010. These arise from the requirements for Government finances as a whole to be managed in accordance with the Stability and Growth Pact established under the Maastricht Treaty, and the associated limitation on budget deficits.

I appreciate that these requirements, while not new, impose a particular degree of financial discipline on local authorities. Current economic and budgetary considerations require all sectors, including local authorities, to ensure effective control and management of public finances.

In relation to the water services capital programme, my Department issued approval to Louth County Council for borrowing up to €1.537m in 2010. Louth County Council has recently submitted a formal application for approval to drawdown borrowing of €1.521m in respect of a number of schemes. This application is currently under examination and a reply will issue to the Council shortly.

My Department will continue to work closely with local authorities to ensure that, within the overall financial limits set, the necessary prioritisation is given to environmental, economic and social infrastructure as part of the overall contribution to economic recovery.

Local Authority Staff

Arthur Morgan

Question:

420 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he is aware of any instance whereby a county councillor has failed to provide a report to the next ordinary council meeting of any conferences attended as required by the Local Government Act; if his officials consider this requirement when carrying out audits of accounts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37144/10]

Under the Local Government Act 2001, an elected member who is authorised to attend a conference, seminar or other event is required to submit a summary of the proceedings of that event to the next ordinary meeting of the local authority concerned. Local government auditors may review this matter during the course of their independent statutory audits.

A specific reminder about this requirement was contained in guidelines on the attendance by councillors at conferences, seminars and other events issued by me to local authoritiesearlier this year. I have not been informed of any instances of non-compliance with this requirement.

EU Funding

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

421 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of EU funding received by his Department directly to fund all institutions, groups and bodies under his aegis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37201/10]

There is no provision in my Department's Estimate for 2010 for direct receipt of EU funds. Issues relating to receipts from such funds are generally a matter for the Department of Finance.

Private Rented Accommodation

Brian Hayes

Question:

422 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of rental properties inspected for compliance with minimum legal standards in 2009 by local authority area; the number of properties that failed to meet these standards by local authority area. [37216/10]

Brian Hayes

Question:

423 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of properties that were fined for failing to meet minimum legal standards in 2009 by local authority area and the total value of these fines. [37217/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 422 and 423 together.

Minimum standards for rental accommodation are prescribed in the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2008, made under section 18 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1992. All landlords have a legal obligation to ensure that their rented properties comply with these regulations. Responsibility for enforcing the regulations rests with the relevant local authority, supported by a dedicated stream of funding allocated by my Department.

This funding increased significantly between 2005 and 2009, rising from €1.5m to €4m. For 2010 I have allocated a total sum of €5.6m to housing authorities for the purpose of carrying out their functions under the Housing Acts in relation to rented accommodation. This is an increase of €1.6m on the amount allocated for this purpose in 2009 and will bring total funding for this purpose since 2004 to over €20m. Funding for 2010 will be paid using a combined methodology based on the number of inspections carried out by each housing authority and on additional funding being provided for once-off strategically-planned programmes of inspection which may be carried out by housing authorities in addition to their usual inspection activity.

In general, local authorities have significantly expanded their inspection activity in recent years with the number of inspections more than doubling — from 6,815 to 17,202 — in the period 2005 to 2008. Details of the inspections of private rented accommodation carried out, the dwellings inspected which did not meet the statutory standards and prosecutions initiated up to 2008 on a county/city basis are included in my Department's Annual Housing Statistics Bulletins, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library and on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.

Work is underway on finalising the 2009 data which will be published later this year; however, preliminary figures indicate a further year on year increase in the number of inspections carried out of approximately 15%, with over 19,800 inspections completed in 2009. This further significant increase reflects the positive impact of the overall Action Programme on Standards, including increased funding, introduced on foot of a commitment in the Towards 2016 social partnership agreement, and progress with the implementation of the Rental Accommodation Scheme. The preliminary figures also indicate that of the 19,800 dwellings inspected in 2009, 4,306 did not meet the minimum standards and 3 prosecutions were initiated by local authorities. Information is not available to my Department on the amount of money raised to date from fines imposed in 2009.

It is a matter for each individual local authority to decide the specific details of its enforcement strategy and inspection arrangements. However, in discharging their responsibilities in relation to the rental sector, authorities have been asked to have regard to the Good Practice Guidelines for Local Authorities on Standards in the Private Rented Sector: Strategic Planning, Effective Enforcement published by the Centre for Housing Research in November 2007, which makes a range of recommendations on relevant issues, including targeting inspection activities.

Following the enactment of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009, a comprehensive new sanctions regime is available to local authorities and fines for non-compliance with the Regulations have been significantly increased; the maximum fine has increased from €3,000 to €5,000 and the fine for each day of a continuing offence has increased from €250 to €400. However, a report published by the Centre for Housing Research in November 2007 points out that landlords' responsiveness to notices of non-compliance issued by local authorities has ensured that the need to prosecute is relatively low. The report also concludes that the low volume of cases taken each year suggests that most examples of non-compliance are on a relatively minor scale.

Local Authority Funding

Niall Collins

Question:

424 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding an application for funding for a scheme (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37262/10]

Following consideration of a recent submission from Limerick County Council, my Department has increased the funding for the project in question from €668,884 to €756,422.

EU Directives

Finian McGrath

Question:

425 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in relation to the proposed designation of Trawbreaga Bay, County Donegal, if the required baseline data is available to amend the qualifying features of the site; if sufficient baseline data is now available for the assessment of aquaculture activities in the bay in compliance with Article 6(3) and 6(4) of the habitats directive; and if sufficient baseline data is not available to facilitate assessments if he will explain the way the scientific basis for both the initial and extended designation of Trawbreaga Bay special protection area was reached. [37265/10]

Finian McGrath

Question:

426 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in relation to the proposed designation of Trawbreaga Bay, County Donegal, if it is possible to gain access to the specific conservation objectives for the initial and amended Trawbreaga Bay special protection area in particular to facilitate the assessment of the aquaculture activities in the bay in compliance with article 6(3) and 6(4) of the habitats directive. [37266/10]

Finian McGrath

Question:

427 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in relation to the proposed designation of Trawbreaga Bay, County Donegal, the level of information the National Parks and Wildlife Service foresees as being required to inform any appropriate assessments which will need to be carried out on activities in and adjacent to the special protection area; if this data will be made readily available; and what, if any, survey requirements will they expect to inform the assessments. [37267/10]

Finian McGrath

Question:

428 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in relation to the proposed designation of Trawbreaga Bay, County Donegal, the way the proposed special protection area designation will affect the ordinary sea angler. [37268/10]

Finian McGrath

Question:

429 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in relation to the proposed designation of Trawbreaga Bay, County Donegal, if the use of fishing boats and permission to fish remain and if winkle picking and seaweed harvesting will continue on a commercial basis following the designation. [37269/10]

Finian McGrath

Question:

430 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in relation to the proposed designation of Trawbreaga Bay, County Donegal, if local riding schools and other horse owners will be allowed to continue riding horses across the beach. [37270/10]

Finian McGrath

Question:

431 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in relation to the proposed designation of Trawbreaga Bay, County Donegal, the way the proposed special protection agency designation will affect landowners whose property borders the red line on maps issued for Trawbreaga Bay. [37271/10]

Finian McGrath

Question:

432 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in relation to the proposed designation of Trawbreaga Bay, County Donegal, if it is envisaged that there will be future expansion of the designated area. [37272/10]

Finian McGrath

Question:

433 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in relation to the proposed designation of Trawbreaga Bay, County Donegal, the way in which the designation impacts on farm practices. [37273/10]

Finian McGrath

Question:

434 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in relation to the proposed designation of Trawbreaga Bay, County Donegal, the way in which the designation impacts on the erection of farm houses. [37274/10]

Finian McGrath

Question:

435 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in relation to the proposed designation of Trawbreaga Bay, County Donegal, his plans to control the mink population. [37275/10]

Finian McGrath

Question:

436 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in relation to the proposed designation of Trawbreaga Bay, County Donegal, if there are any new rules or guidelines affecting gun clubs in the area. [37276/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 425 to 436, inclusive, together.

A judgment delivered by the European Court of Justice in December 2007 (C-418/04) found Ireland to have been in breach of the requirements of the Birds and Habitats Directives in a number of areas. This included a finding that the designation of Ireland's original suite of Special Protection Areas (SPA's) was inadequate and did not meet the full requirements of the Directives. The Court also found that some of Ireland's SPA's were not sufficiently extensive to include all important habitat for the birds in question. The findings of the Court necessitated a re-designation programme of all of the State's SPA's, including Trawbreaga Bay SPA, which was first designated some fifteen years ago.

Bird data collected over the past two decades clearly show that this site warrants designation as an SPA. In addition, the approach now being taken, in compliance with the findings of the Court, has necessitated redrawing the boundaries of some sites to include all important areas for birds. In Trawbreaga Bay, this has primarily entailed extending the site to include all of the wetland area of the Bay and I do not have any plans to expand the area of the site beyond what is currently proposed. Trawbreaga Bay is also part of the North Inishowen Coast Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

The judgment of the Court demands that the protected species of bird are now listed as qualifying interests for the site and some activities will require my consent before they can be undertaken. Implications for farm practices of those farmers concerned have been addressed in site packs on the proposal sent with my Department's letter of 30 July, 2010, to some 148 landowners and users identified as having an interest in the site.

The judgment of the European Court of Justice in case C418/04 also found that Ireland was in breach of the Habitats Directive by failing to subject aquaculture licence applications to the appropriate assessment requirements of Article 6 of the Habitats Directive. Article 6 requires that any plan or project consented to by a Member State must be assessed for its potential to cause damage to a designated site, in view of the site's conservation objectives. In order to undertake appropriate assessment for aquaculture consents, a number of steps must be followed.

Firstly, my Department must set detailed conservation objectives for each of the sites in which aquaculture or fishery activities are proposed. To do this, sufficient baseline data, more detailed than the data required for classification / designation, must be collected. A programme of collecting the required data is underway at a national level involving my Department and the Marine Institute. Once set, the conservation objectives will be used by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to undertake an appropriate assessment of applications for aquaculture licences / licence renewals or to open fisheries within, or impacting upon, designated sites.

Sufficient bird data have now been collected by my Department to inform the re-designation and to set conservation objectives for Trawbreaga Bay SPA. Within the next few weeks the Marine Institute (MI) will have gathered and analysed sufficient benthic (sea bed) data to enable conservation objectives to be set for North Inishowen Coast SAC. Once this is done, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food can proceed to undertake appropriate assessment and to make licensing decisions. The data collected for these purposes will be made available on request.

My Department does not have concerns about current levels of recreational activities at this site.

Commercial activities such as fishing, winkle picking and seaweed harvesting are subject to consent processes administered by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food or me. Applications for consent to undertake these activities will be subject to screening for appropriate assessment and appropriate assessment if required. Applications for consent under the planning system will similarly be screened and/or assessed by the relevant planning authority.

Mink are not considered to be a significant threat to the protected species in this SPA at present and I have no immediate plans to control their numbers.

The proposal to update the designation of Trawbreaga Bay as a Special Protection Area under the Birds Directive was advertised on 4 August, 2010. Appeals by affected landowners or users may be made by 3 November, 2010. The re-designation process will be concluded, following consideration of any appeals submitted, with the making of a new Statutory Instrument for the site.

My Department has met with a number of interested parties and local stakeholders regarding the re-designation of Trawbreaga Bay to clarify the implications of the designations.

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

437 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37301/10]

The information requested in respect of contracts held by my Department with telecommunication providers is provided in the table below.

Mobile contracts have been procured under the Government Mobile Framework Agreement. My Department is in the process of procuring services under the Fixed Voice and IP Voice Framework. Data circuits are procured through open tender procedures where more than one provider of service is available. Contracts are agreed / renewed in line with procurement guidelines.

Contracts held by Agencies under the aegis of my Department are a matter for the Agencies themselves

Telecommunications Provider

Contract Details

Eircom

Telephone lines, Broadband, Data Circuits, Telephony Maintenance and Services

BT

Telephone lines, Data Circuits

Smart

Data Circuits

Airspeed

Broadband

Ripple

Broadband

Cork Community Broadband

Broadband

Digiweb

Broadband

Imagine

Broadband

North West Electronics

Broadband

Lighthouse Networks

Broadband

Westnet

Broadband

Last Mile Broadband

Broadband

Vodafone

Mobile Phones, Data and Broadband Services

O2

Mobile Phones, Data and Broadband Services

3 mobile

Broadband

Phoneware

Telephony Maintenance

Nextra One

Telephony Maintenance

Leo Varadkar

Question:

438 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with energy providers; if he will to provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37316/10]

The energy requirements of Government Departments, Offices and Agencies were catered for by the former Government Supplies Agency (GSA). The National Procurement Service has subsumed responsibility for GSA contracts.

Details of the energy contracts, including the total value for all Government Departments covered by the contract, are indicated below. My Department's main buildings are included in the contracts. Standard connection agreements were signed on an office by office basis in the case of my Department's smaller offices. The automotive fuel charge cards relate to the use of fuel for official vehicles.

Supplier

Contract

Date

Contract Value 2008

Contract Value 2009

Electricity

ESB.ie Energia

PS 77

01/07/07

12,839,433

11,814,275

Natural Gas

Bórd Gáis Éireann

PS 117

01/04/07

10,013,674

6,292,002

Automotive Fuel Charge Card

Topaz

PS142

01/05/09

0

3,754,575

Supply of energy to central government sites continues through these contracts to date.

All energy contracts are awarded following a competitive tendering process.

The financial arrangements (procurement model) associated with these contracts are based on discounts from benchmark industry pricing standards.

Competitions for electricity and natural gas frameworks have just concluded and will supersede the existing arrangements. Electricity and gas supply details for all of my Department's offices and buildings were forwarded to the National Procurement Service earlier this year for inclusion in the competition.

Proposed Legislation

Rory O'Hanlon

Question:

439 Deputy Rory O’Hanlon asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to amend section 63 of the Housing Act 1966; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37372/10]

Section 63 of the Housing Act 1966 provides for a definition of overcrowding. There are no plans at present to amend this definition.

Tax Code

Joe Costello

Question:

440 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans for lifting the burden of road tax on road hauliers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35058/10]

The current rates of motor tax that apply to all vehicles, including commercial vehicles, are set out in Part 1 of the Schedule to the Finance (Excise Duties) (Vehicles) Act 1952 as inserted by section 3 of the Motor Vehicle (Duties and Licences) (No. 2) Act 2008. I have no plans at present to amend these rates.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

441 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of his Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37569/10]

No new agencies have been established on a statutory basis or come under the aegis of my Department since my appointment in June 2007.

However, it is intended that the Housing and Sustainable Communities Agency, a single streamlined housing agency, will take on a range of housing functions currently performed by the Affordable Homes Partnership (AHP), the Centre for Housing Research (CHR) and the National Building Agency (NBA), as well as new functions reflecting current housing policy (for example, in the area of social leasing). As a result, the AHP, the CHR and the NBA will be wound up. This agency has already been established on an administrative basis, and it is expected that it will be placed on a statutory footing next year.

Services Board (LGMSB) and the Local Government Computer Services Board (LGCSB) have been working very closely together under the direction of the Local Government Management Agency to merge functions and services. Draft Heads of a Bill to amend the relevant Corporate Bodies legislation, to give full effect to the merger, have been approved by Government and my Department is working closely with the Office of the Attorney General in the preparation of the legislation.

State Companies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

442 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the new State-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of his Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37584/10]

In 2010 year I approved the establishment of Housing and Sustainable Communities Ltd., as a subsidiary of the National Building Agency, principally to manage land transferred to the company by local authorities under the Land Aggregation Scheme. Under the terms of the scheme, the land is transferred to HSC Ltd after the local authority redeems the loan from the Housing Finance Agency. There is no turnover associated with the Company in 2010.

Water Services

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

443 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his short, medium and long-term plans for the provision of an adequate drinking water supply throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37606/10]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

445 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which he has provided or intends to provide adequate drinking water treatment and storage facilities to meet the requirements of the entire population in all areas throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37609/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 443 and 445 together.

Continued high levels of funding in recent years for the Water Services Investment Programme and Rural Water Programme demonstrate the Government's ongoing commitment to the sector. Investment in the period 2000 — 2009 has seen an increase in water treatment capacity equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.1 million and an increase in storage capacity equivalent to1.6 million over the same period.

My Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012, which is available in the Oireachtas library, sets out the plans for investment in major water supply projects, including increased treatment and storage capacity where appropriate, in order to meet key environmental and economic objectives over that period. Including water conservation works, the Programme's water supply component comprises 72 projects in progress with a value of about €524 million, some 182 contracts to be progressed to construction over the period 2010-2012 with a value of €828 million and some 100 schemes on which planning work will continue.

Investment in water supply facilities under the Water Services Investment Programme is complemented by investment annually under the Rural Water Programme — a largely devolved programme of investment on relatively smaller water services schemes and the group water sector.

Local Authority Housing

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

444 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of families registered on the various local authority housing lists; his plans to meet their permanent housing requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37607/10]

The number of households on a local authority's waiting list continuously fluctuates as households on the list are allocated housing and new households apply for housing support. A statutory assessment of housing need is carried out every three years by all housing authorities. The last assessment took place in 2008 and indicated that there were 56,249 households in need of social housing support. Detailed information on this assessment, including a breakdown by housing authority, is available on my Department's website — .

Meeting social housing need remains a high priority for the Government. While ensuring that we can deliver across the full range of needs, the scale and composition of the public housing programme in the years ahead will be dependent on a number of factors, including the level of available funding and the evolution of the housing market generally. I am determined to ensure that the programme is framed in a manner which continues to optimise the delivery of social housing.

To this end, the range of delivery mechanisms continues to be adapted and expanded. For example, in 2009 I announced the introduction of a new Social Housing Leasing Initiative, through which it is expected that a substantial number of dwellings will be provided in the years ahead to meet housing needs. This, together with the Rental Accommodation Scheme, complements the traditional capital funded programmes operated through local authorities and the voluntary and co-operative housing sector.

Question No. 445 answered with Question No. 443.

Water Pollution

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

446 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of known incidents where the pollution of lakes, rivers, streams and canals took place where the source was inadequate or malfunction of local authority sewerage treatment facilities; the action taken to address each of these issues; the number of other sensitive locations likely to be at risk from such pollution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37610/10]

The most recent three-year report on water quality, by the Environmental Protection Agency, Water Quality in Ireland 2004-2006, identifies nutrient enrichment causing eutrophication as the main threat to water quality in Ireland. Municipal sources (mainly sewage discharges) and agricultural activities are identified as the main sources of nutrient enrichment.

Of the 2,985 river and stream sites examined in the report, a total of 39 locations were assessed as seriously polluted. Municipal sources were suspected to be the likely cause of pollution in 21 of these cases. A further 386 sites were considered to be moderately polluted with municipal sources being the suspected cause in 166 of these cases.

The Department continues to invest substantially in the development of national water services capacity through the Water Services Investment Programme. The Programme for 2010-2012, which was drawn up following a review of programme priorities, includes some 160 contracts for waste water infrastructure to start during this period, with a total value of circa €1 billion.

The current Programme is aligned with the priorities identified in the first cycle of River Basin Management Plans and has also taken into account relevant EPA reports on waste water discharges.

Discharges from local authority waste water treatment plants are subject to authorisation by the Environmental Protection Agency under the Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations 2007. The Agency may grant or refuse a licence and, where granting a licence, has the power to attach such conditions as are, in the opinion of the Agency, necessary to give effect to the requirements of existing environmental legislation in the field of water policy.

Planning Issues

John O'Mahony

Question:

447 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will exempt the construction of one off rural houses on the applicants own lands from the proposals in the Housing Action Plan Circular Ship 2010/ 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37639/10]

Housing authorities currently have delegated sanction to provide single units of social housing from within their annual social housing investment programme allocations. The construction of one off rural houses may continue to be considered by housing authorities in determining priorities under their proposed social housing investment programmes for 2011 to 2012. However, having regard to overall Exchequer funding constraints; the level of prior contractual commitments entered into by housing authorities for the provision of future social housing; and the shift in the focus of future social housing supply under the expanded suite of non-construction supply options, including the Social Housing Leasing Initiative and the Rental Accommodation Scheme, authorities were informed, under the terms of Circular SHIP 2010/17, that new construction proposals, with the exception of those with regeneration benefits, will only be considered in very exceptional circumstances, e.g. infill to address anti-social behaviour, special needs etc. Authorities were also advised to have regard to the level of suitable vacant accommodation in their areas that may be available for leasing or acquisition.

Social and Affordable Housing

John O'Mahony

Question:

448 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will carry out a complete review of the incremental purchase scheme and amend the proposal that the scheme will only apply to new houses only in order to allow existing tenants both rural and urban purchase their own homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37640/10]

I do not propose to undertake a review of the incremental purchase scheme at this time.

Existing social housing tenants are afforded the opportunity to purchase the homes in which they currently reside, under the tenant purchase scheme. This scheme, in its current form, has been in place since 1995.

Notwithstanding this, when I introduced the Incremental Purchase Scheme on 14 June 2010, I indicated my intention to bring forward legislation in 2011 to underpin a similar scheme for the sale of existing local authority houses to tenants. This scheme will replace the current tenant purchase scheme in due course.

To ensure an orderly wind-down of the existing scheme, my Department has requested housing authorities to inform all existing tenants of houses as soon as possible (and new tenants on allocation of a house) of the decision to end the scheme so that they have sufficient time to apply to purchase their home under the existing scheme if they so wish.

Local Authority Charges

Deirdre Clune

Question:

449 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the non-principal private residence payment applies to persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37661/10]

The Government in the Local Government (Charges) Act 2009 broadened the revenue base of local authorities through the introduction of the charge on non-principal private residences. The charge is set at €200 and is being levied and collected by local authorities. With some exemptions, the charge applies to a residential property that is not the sole or main residence of the owner.

A person who is ordinarily resident abroad and owns property in the State which is not his or her main residence is liable for the charge in the same manner as a person resident in the State. The fact that a relative might be living in the property in question has no bearing on liability in this instance.

The Act does not make provision for any appeals process in respect of the non-principal private residence charge but instead places collection of the charge under the care and management of the relevant local authority.

Air Quality

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

450 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has studied the report arising from air quality monitoring at the various locations throughout County Kildare; if specific action is warranted arising therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37690/10]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

451 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has studied the report arising from air quality monitoring at the various locations throughout the country; if specific action is warranted arising therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37691/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 450 and 451 together.

The monitoring, assessment and management of ambient air quality in Ireland is carried out according to the requirements of the EU Air Quality Framework Directive. This Directive was transposed into Irish law through the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992 (Ambient Air Quality Assessment and Management) Regulations 1999. Under further regulations made in 2002, 2004 and 2009, specific ambient air quality standards have been prescribed for the following pollutants: sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and oxides of nitrogen, particulate matter and lead (2002); carbon monoxide and benzene (2002); ozone (2004); and polyaromatic hydrocarbons, arsenic, nickel, cadmium and mercury in ambient air (2009).

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has responsibility for the monitoring of Irish air quality. The EPA continually monitors a range of atmospheric pollutants via a network of air quality monitoring stations located around the country.

The EPA reports the results of the air quality monitoring of the above pollutants on its website at: http://www.epa.ie/whatwedo/monitoring/air/data/. My Department keeps these data under ongoing review to identify any significant trends which might emerge and also meets periodically with the EPA on air quality issues.

The EPA also publishes a comprehensive annual report on air quality, the most recent being the report on Air Quality in Ireland 2008 (September 2009). This report provides an overview of ambient air quality trends in Ireland in 2008 based on data from 30 monitoring stations and a further 18 stations operated by local authorities to measure black smoke. The Report confirmed that air quality was generally good at monitoring stations throughout the country, with pollution levels in larger cities highest at traffic influenced sites, and with the burning of coal and solid fuels being the most significant factor in smaller urban areas. All monitored levels met required EU and national standards.

Water and Sewerage Schemes

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

452 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the application by Kildare County Council to his Department for approval and funding in respect of a group water scheme (details supplied); when he expects to be in a position to allow the scheme to start; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37692/10]

The Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas Library, provides for the development of a comprehensive range of new water services infrastructure in County Kildare. The total value of contracts underway and those proposed for commencement during the period of the programme in County Kildare is some €172m.

The Ballyna Regional Water Supply Scheme is not included among the contracts and schemes in County Kildare to be progressed under the Water Investment Programme over the period 2010-2012.

A key input to the development of the Programme was the assessment of needs prepared by local authorities, including Kildare County Council. These were subsequently appraised by my Department in the context of the funds available and key criteria that complemented those used by the authorities. Inevitably, through this process, certain projects that had been proposed had to give way to others that are more strategically important at this time, as the total value of contracts and schemes proposed by local authorities exceeded the level of resources likely to be available in the period.

The scope and format of the Programme for 2010 to 2012 is designed better to reflect ongoing environmental and economic priorities, to maximise the return on public funds being invested in the sector and to ensure that the Programme is realistic in its level of ambition. The contracts and schemes that did not rate sufficiently for inclusion in the Programme on this occasion were those which did not feature highly on public health grounds or other environmental compliance requirements (for example those relating to European Court of Justice proceedings, or those required in the context of the River Basin Management Plans, Shellfish Pollution Production Programmes, EPA reports etc) and projects that were proposed simply for capacity expansion (which was unrelated to the National Spatial Strategy/developing areas priorities), and which in the case of water supply can be deferred, in many cases, in favour of accelerated water conservation measures.

Radon Gas

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

453 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which incidents of high radon gas have been detected at various buildings and locations throughout the country; the number of situations indicating dangerous levels of the gas; the action taken or proposed by way of response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37693/10]

The Government, largely through the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII), has, over many years, taken a number of steps designed to assist in assessing the extent of the radon problem in Ireland. Between 1992 and 1999, the RPII carried out a comprehensive National Radon Survey to measure radon concentrations in Irish homes. The principal objective was to identify the scale of the radon problem and, in particular, areas at higher risk of radon contamination above the National Reference Level of 200 becquerels per metrecubed(Bq/m3 ).

The Government's approach to radon, which is similar to that of the majority of EU Member States, is to concentrate efforts on increasing public awareness of the risks posed by radon in the home. Householders, particularly those in known high radon areas, have been strongly encouraged by the RPII to have their homes tested for radon and to undertake remediation works where necessary.

Some 41,000 homes have now been measured for radon by the RPII, of which 543 have had detections of very high radon concentrations above 800 Bq/m3 . The results of these tests have been compiled into a central database, which has greatly aided the knowledge and understanding as to the extent of Ireland's radon problem. The table below gives summary results of the radon measurements carried out in each county up to 30th June 2010.

Furthermore, the RPII has carried out targeted information campaigns in high radon areas and in some instances where areas of particularly high radon levels have been found, has written directly to householders in these areas. This will continue to be the focus of attention so as to encourage householders to address monitoring and remedial requirements effectively and economically.

If a dwelling is found to have a high radon level, remediation work may be recommended. Technical guidance on radon remediation techniques is available in a booklet issued by my Department, Radon in Buildings — Corrective Options, which is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie. The RPII has also issued guidance, Understanding Radon Remediation — A Householder's Guide, which is available on the Institute's website at www.rpii.ie, together with a a list of companies who can provide a radon remediation service and offer specific advice and recommendations. In addition, the RPII can also be contacted on freephone 1800 300 600.

County

Total number of houses measured

Number of houses in categories of radon concentration

Max (Bq/m3)

0-199 Bq/m3

200-799 Bq/m3

> 800 Bq/m3

Carlow

750

615

115

6

1,700

Cavan

405

395

10

0

800

Clare

3,395

3,005

330

62

3,500

Cork

4,775

4,225

510

37

4,500

Donegal

1,240

1,180

55

0

500

Dublin

2,820

2,650

170

1

1,400

Galway

5,135

4,055

960

117

3,400

Kerry

3,365

2,870

385

107

49,000

Kildare

1,080

1,030

45

3

1,100

Kilkenny

1,025

895

120

7

2,400

Laois

505

490

15

0

600

Leitrim

325

300

20

1

1,600

Limerick

1,150

1,065

80

3

1,900

Longford

280

255

20

1

900

Louth

645

565

80

0

700

Mayo

3,410

2,860

510

38

6,200

Meath

845

775

65

2

900

Monaghan

270

250

15

0

800

Offaly

570

555

10

0

500

Roscommon

580

520

55

2

1,400

Sligo

1,680

1,280

335

65

5,500

Tipperary

1,735

1,540

175

16

2,400

Waterford

1,210

945

225

36

9,700

Wexford

1,405

1,195

190

18

2,900

Westmeath

610

555

50

0

700

Wicklow

1,785

1,495

270

21

16,000

Total

40,995

35,565

4,815

543

Waste Management

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

454 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which the waste management Act is intended to legislate for the waste management sector in the future; if he has proposed any changes; the basis and nature for any such changes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37694/10]

I have indicated my intention to publish an Environmental (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill later this session which, inter alia, will amend the Waste Management Act 1996 to provide for greater flexibility in the setting of both the plastic bag levy and the landfill levy. It will also introduce a waste facility levy for waste sent to incineration facilities. The Act will also be amended later this year by regulations to be made under the European Communities Act 1972, to transpose the provisions of the Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC).

In addition, on 15 July 2010 I published a Draft Statement of Waste Policy for public consultation which set out the various elements being considered as part of the development of a new national waste management policy for the coming decade and beyond. Its core objective will be to set Ireland on an ambitious trajectory towards high value, high quality resource and waste management, using leading edge technology with significant potential to add value and create jobs in the economy.

The period of public consultation closed on 1 October 2010 and I am now considering the submissions received with a view to bringing a final policy statement to Government for decision at the earliest opportunity. This will provide a framework within which further necessary legislative changes, including to the Waste Management Acts, can be brought forward.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

455 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his current or intended policy in respect of waste management with particular reference to incineration, landfill and or reuse and recycling; the intended proportions of total waste likely to be treated under each heading in the future; the extent of national and international advice on the more appropriate disposal means in order of choice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37695/10]

The Programme for Government agreed in 2007 signalled a fundamental change of policy in relation to waste management. Reflecting the ambition of the Programme commitment, I have made it clear that I want to see a sustainable, resource-based approach to waste management. This involves a shift in focus from residual waste management options, such as landfill and incineration, to technologies such as Mechanical Biological Treatment which can maximise the value to be extracted from what should be viewed as a resource rather than as a waste.

The Programme's objectives to implement this policy change included a commitment to carry out an international review of waste management plans, practices and procedures and to act on the conclusions. The report, by a group of Irish and international consultants, was published in November 2009. On 15 July 2010, I published a Draft Statement of Waste Policy for public consultation which set out the various elements being considered as part of the development of a new national waste management policy for the coming decade and beyond. The draft statement is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.

The consultation period closed on 1 October last and I am currently considering the submissions received. I will be bringing a final policy statement, which will also be informed by the Waste Framework Directive, to Government for decision at the earliest opportunity. This will provide certainty for those in the waste management sector and a framework within which the necessary legislative changes can be brought forward.

Social and Affordable Housing

Niall Collins

Question:

456 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status of an application by Limerick County Council for funding to develop phase two of the project being undertaken by an association (details supplied) in County Limerick. [37703/10]

Earlier this year I announced details of the 75 individual projects to be advanced under my Department's funding schemes for voluntary and co-operative housing, including the project being advanced by Croom Voluntary Housing Association at Towerfield in Croom. My Department has been liaising closely with Limerick County Council in relation to this proposal and a decision on grant approval will be notified to the Council very shortly.

Richard Bruton

Question:

457 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will consider extending the housing adaption grant to include tenants of local authorities, who now have to wait for many years in order to have necessary adaptions to their home undertaken to accommodate a person with a disability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37728/10]

Under my Department's Social Housing Investment Programme, funding of up to 90% of cost is provided to local authorities to undertake necessary adaptations and extensions to their housing stock to meet the needs of tenants with a disability. I have no proposals to extend the scope of the suite of Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability to include local authority dwellings.

Special Protection Areas

Michael Ahern

Question:

458 Deputy Michael Ahern asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his proposal to designate the Blackwater Estuary in County Cork as a special protection area will have a negative effect on the use of the river by those involved in power boating, sailing, water skiing, fishing and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37730/10]

I refer to the reply to Question No. 195 of the 7 October, 2010 which sets out the position in this case.

Question No. 459 answered with Question No. 83.

Housing Finance Agency

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

460 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the outstanding loan book of the Housing Finance Agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37911/10]

The Housing Finance Agency advances funds to local authorities to be used by them for any purpose authorised under the Housing Acts and it finances its operations by borrowing or raising funds for these purposes. The Agency's total outstanding loan book at end September 2010 was €4.53 billion.

Building Regulations Advisory Body

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

461 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of times the Building Regulations Advisory Body has met in each of the years 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37913/10]

The Building Regulations Advisory Body (BRAB) met on three occasions in each of 2006 and 2007, four occasions in each of 2008 and 2009 and on three occasions, to date, in 2010. A further meeting is scheduled later this year.

Area Appeals

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

462 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of objections from landowners heard by the designated area appeals advisory board in each year since it was established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37914/10]

The information requested is detailed in the following table.

Year

Objections heard

1999

12

2000

39

2001

4

2002

13

2003

6

2004

14

2005

17

2006

19

2007

28

2008

37

2009

5

2010

15

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

463 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide details of the number of civil servants in each Government Department who are currently e-working; his plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if he will provide details of the numbers of civil servants he would hope to have e-working by end 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38196/10]

There are currently 12 officials from my Department e-working. My Department is currently undertaking a review of e-working arrangements in light of current business demands and available resources, the number of locations from which staff of my Department operate and the Government policy document Smarter Travel — A Sustainable Transport Future . It is hoped to conclude this study by the end of the year with a new e-working programme rolled out in 2011.

Offshore Exploration

Liz McManus

Question:

464 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of licensed operators taking part in offshore drilling in Ireland; the evidence that has been provided by those licensed operators to show they could cope financially with an incident along the lines of the Deepwater Horizon incident; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37159/10]

My Department requires licensed operators to comply with best international practice when undertaking drilling operations and while there are no drilling operations underway in the Irish offshore at this time, under the Rules and Procedures for offshore petroleum exploration, responsibility for any clean-up costs that might arise as a result of a drilling accident rest with the licence operator.

The key to avoiding incidents that could have a negative impact on safety or the environment is to have an industry that operates to best international practice together with a robust regulatory approach. As a consequence of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, my Department introduced additional special drilling oversight measures which including more frequent inspections and verification that all equipment, systems and procedures are in place to allow operations to proceed safely and without polluting the environment. These additional measures are designed to support the rigorous implementation of the existing robust regulatory approach that is applied to each well drilled in the Irish offshore.

In light of the Deepwater Horizon accident, the EU Commission is reviewing existing European legislation applying to the offshore exploration and production industry and has signalled that it will bring forward proposals in 2011 which will inter alia deal with liability for clean up costs that might arise as a result of a major drilling incident.

Telecommunications Services

Olwyn Enright

Question:

465 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if additional schools in an area (details supplied) will be included in future phases of the State-sponsored broadband scheme for schools; if so, the schools that will be included; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37243/10]

Olwyn Enright

Question:

466 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if additional schools in an area (details supplied) will be included in future phases of the State-sponsored broadband scheme for schools; if so, the schools that will be included; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37244/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 465 and 466 together.

The 78 schools chosen to participate in the 100 mbps Pilot Project have by now all received their enhanced bandwidth and have successfully migrated onto HEAnet's network. My Department, in conjunction with the Department of Education and Skills will now undertake both a technical and pedagogical evaluation of the Pilot Project.

In line with the renewed Programme for Government it is my intention to have all post primary schools connected under the scheme, by the end of 2012.

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

467 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37296/10]

Fixed line telecommunication services are provided to my Department by Eircom plc. The contract for the provision of mobile voice and data communications for the Department has been held by Vodafone since 2008. A new tender competition under the National Procurement Agencies Framework Agreement has recently been held and my Department expects to announce the results of that competition shortly.

In addition my Department has 3 telecommunications providers which provide Wide Area Network connectivity to the Department's 3 sites. The providers are Eircom, Complete Telecom and Smart Telecom.

Value for money is a high priority of my Department and preparatory work is underway in my Department to enable it to go to tender for fixed line telecommunications under a new Framework Agreement recently put in place by the National Procurement Agency.

Telecommunication Services are invoiced on both a monthly and quarterly basis depending on the supplier. Invoices are paid in accordance with the Prompt Payments Act 1997.

The question of telecommunication services for the agencies under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for those agencies and as such is a matter in which I have no role.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

468 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with energy providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37311/10]

Energy Services are provided to my Department by 3 energy providers. Bord Gáis provides gas to the Department's Headquarters at Adelaide Road. Energia supplies electricity to the Department's sites at Adelaide Road, Tom Johnson House in Beggars Bush and Sandyford. The ESB supplies electricity to the Department's decentralised office in Cavan.

Energia, a supplier of renewable power, was retained by the Department in 2006 under a tender competition put in place by the Commissioners of Public Works. I understand that competitions for electricity and natural gas frameworks have just been concluded by the National Procurement Agency and these will supersede the existing arrangements.

The financial arrangements associated with the current contracts are based on discounts from benchmark industry pricing standards. Gas and electricity supply are invoiced on both a monthly and two-monthly basis depending on the supplier. Invoices are paid in accordance with the Prompt Payments Act 1997.

Details of the energy costs for my Department are indicated below.

Supplier

Contract

Date

Value 2007

Value 2008

Value 2009

Electricity

Energia & ESB

PS 77

01/07/07

397,866

306,279

259,666

Natural Gas

Bord Gáis Éireann

PS 117

01/04/07

142,570

89,661

52,695

The question of the provision of energy services for the agencies under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for those agencies and as such is a matter in which I have no role.

Energy Bills

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

469 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that gas consumers who wish to switch to a prepay payment method for their gas bill have to pay nearly €400 to do this; his views on this significant charge given that many consumers switching to the prepay method are under serious financial pressure and given the long tradition of prepaying for gas by Bord Gáis consumers before many other organisations had introduced a prepay method; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37389/10]

The primary responsibility for managing energy customer debt resides with the energy suppliers. The use of pre-payment meters facilitates better management by the customer of gas bills and thus reduces the risk of disconnection.

Over the last three years, the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) has been working with the gas industry to make pre-payment meters more accessible for customers who need them. As a result of these efforts pre-payment metering is now technically feasible for all customers irrespective of supplier. While currently only Bord Gáis Energy supplies domestic pre-payment metered customers, both Airtricity and Flogas have committed to the CER that they will set up internal systems to service this section of the domestic market within the next 12 months.

The supply and fitting of domestic pre-payment meters is a service carried out by Bord Gáis Networks (BGN) on behalf of the customer or the supplier. The charges relating to the fitting of such meters are regulated by the CER. This is a fixed charge which is currently set at €373 (including VAT).

It is the case therefore that Local Authorities, on behalf of tenants of local authority housing, and other customers, who wish to install a pre-payment meter are required to pay BGN the above charge for the incremental cost of the meter and its installation. However, I welcome the fact that the CER, in reviewing BGN's five-year revenue review, has allowed for a number of pre-payment meters to be installed under a financial hardship provision. Customers in genuine financial hardship who have been referred by the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) or Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, or whom the supplier considers have genuine difficulty paying bills, can have a pre-payment meter installed at no cost to the customer.

The CER considers that pre-payment meters can be a very useful budgeting tool for customers and are also beneficial to suppliers in reducing the accumulation of debt. However, the CER is mindful of the fact that pre-payment meters are not suitable for all customers, such as the elderly or vulnerable, and that the nature of pre-payment meters is such that there is no way of monitoring the frequency and duration of self-disconnection due to a customer running out of credit.

The key message for customers in genuine difficulty with their bills is to make immediate contact with their supplier and agree a plan before the unpaid bills begin to accumulate thus obviate the risk of disconnection.

Trade in Conflict Minerals

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

470 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if this country plans to pursue legislation similar to that just passed in the United States of America which limits trade in conflict minerals, particularly those which fuel ongoing civil warfare and sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36117/10]

I presume that the legislation in the United States of America to which the Deputy refers is the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act which, I understand, is a federal statute that was signed into law by President Obama on July 21, 2010. While this act is mainly concerned with the financial regulatory reform agenda of the United States Government, I understand it also contains provisions related to trade in minerals originating in the Democratic Republic of Congo including what are termed conflict minerals.

In relation to Ireland, I can advise the Deputy that the European Community, representing all the Member States, is a participant in the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, which seeks to impose effective control by Member States over the trade in rough diamonds into and out of the EU, in order to prevent trade in conflict diamonds. Within the EU, that Scheme is implemented by Council Regulation (EC) 2368 of 20 December 2002 as amended. This Regulation relates specifically to trade in rough diamonds and is given effect to in Ireland by a Statutory Instrument made in December 2005 (S.I. 878 of 2005).

The Deputy will appreciate that this is an issue of international trade and proposals for any further regulation at EU level in this area will be considered by the Government in the normal way.

Telecommunications Services

Deirdre Clune

Question:

471 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps his Department has taken since the publication of the innovation task force report to act upon its key recommendation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37559/10]

Government policy pertaining to the electronic communications market in Ireland is set out in "Next Generation Broadband — Gateway to a Knowledge Ireland", which I published in June 2009. The policy paper sets out the Government's position that investment in broadband infrastructure is primarily a matter for the private sector, facilitated, where appropriate and possible, by Government.

This policy has facilitated significant progress in rolling out broadband services, over recent years. This progress, measured in international comparisons, is demonstrated in a recent study of broadband services in 72 countries by the University of Oxford and the University of Oviedo, Spain, which concludes the broadband services currently available in Ireland are capable of meeting the requirements of today's broadband applications and overall, in terms of broadband quality and penetration, Ireland ranks 13th of the 72 countries studied.

Progress in delivering increased speeds is ongoing, Eircom is currently rolling out an Ethernet service which provides speeds up to and exceeding 1Gbs to wholesale customers and other high-bandwidth users. Speeds are also increasing for lower bandwidth users, for example, Eircom and the Vodafone/BT alliance are both rolling out speeds of up to 24 Mbps using vDSL technology and UPC is currently providing speeds up to 30 Mbps and is rolling out speeds up to 100 Mbps.

The June 2009 policy paper also proposed the establishment of a Next Generation Broadband Taskforce comprising industry, Government and ComReg, aimed at ensuring that the development of high speed and high quality broadband in Ireland will meet the demands of Ireland's Smart Economy by delivering next generation networks and access. I was awaiting various developments prior to establishing the Taskforce including:

(i) greater clarity from the EU Commission on the regulation of next generation access;

(ii) revised guidelines from the EU Commission on State Aid for broadband;

(iii) an outline Radio Spectrum Policy Programme from the EU Commission; and

(iv) completion of the roll-out of the NBS.

All of these developments have come to pass and I signalled earlier this month that I now propose to establish the Taskforce. The first meeting of the Taskforce will be held shortly.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

472 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of his Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37564/10]

The number of bodies under the remit of my Department that have been established since 2007 is 2. The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland was established under the Broadcasting Act 2009 and replaced the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland and the Broadcasting Complaints Commission. The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland will be fully funded by an industry levy as set out in the Broadcasting Act.

The new inland fisheries authority, Inland Fisheries Ireland, was established under the Inland Fisheries Act 2010. The merger of the seven regional and Central fisheries Boards took place with effect from 1 July 2010 and direct Exchequer funding for Inland Fisheries in 2010 has been reduced by €3.369 million.

The budget for the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland is published on the agency's website, www.bai.ie. Details in respect of Inland Fisheries Ireland are published in the Agency Statement for Vote 30 in the Revised Estimates Volume.

State Companies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

473 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the new State-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of his Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37579/10]

I can inform the Deputy that no new state-owned companies have been established or have come under the aegis of my Department since 2007.

Energy Regeneration

Leo Varadkar

Question:

474 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress that has been made on providing a Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff for micro-generation; when it will come into operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37599/10]

My Department, together with Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, is completing analysis of the micro-generation and small commercial scale renewable technologies sector to evaluate options around the introduction of a Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) scheme. The purpose of the analysis is to inform the development of such a scheme by analysing tariff options, scheme terms and conditions, potential market uptake and overall cost and benefits to the consumer. I expect to receive the results of this analysis shortly.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

475 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress that has been made on providing a Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff for miscanthus; when it will come into operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37600/10]

In May 2010, I announced new Renewable Energy Feed In Tariffs (REFIT) for electricity generated from biomass, ranging from 8.5 cent per kilowatt hour to 15 cent per kilowatt hour depending on the technology deployed. These tariffs include support for electricity generated from biomass co-fired with peat in the three peat fired power stations. The types of biomass likely to be used for this purpose include willow, and forest fibre and miscanthus along with other energy crops and other biomass materials.

State Aid Approval from the European Commission is required before the new REFIT tariffs can be implemented. My Department is currently finalising the technical details of the State Aid submission with Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland and it will be submitted to the Commission this week.

Post Office Services

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

476 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he or his Department have discussed with Eircom its decision to introduce a €20 minimum for the payment of bills in post offices; if he will make representations to Eircom to reverse this decision in view of the hardship it will cause to many who make small but regular payments in their post offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37895/10]

The regulation of telecommunications operators, including regulatory issues surrounding bill collection and billing by operators, is the responsibility of the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) in accordance with its functions under the Communications Regulation Act 2002, as amended.

Eircom has indicated to ComReg that it is in ongoing discussions with An Post on issues arising from the over-the-counter payment service available at post offices which resulted in Eircom introducing a minimum €20 payment for transactions using this service.

Eircom has pointed out to ComReg that it continues to offer its customers facilities to pay bills by agreed instalments at levels below the minimum €20 payment imposed on over-the-counter service. The alternative payment options include An Post's Household Budget scheme, retail outlets nationwide which operate the Payzone, Paypoint or Postpoint schemes and payments by electronic means. Eircom has advised ComReg that it will notify these alternatives to its customers.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

477 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he or his Department have discussed with a company (details supplied) its decision to unilaterally transfer all their customers to electronic billing, requiring persons to opt out and revert to the former standard bill pay arrangements, in view of the inconvenience this will cause to many persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37896/10]

The regulation of telecommunications operators, including regulatory issues surrounding bill collection and billing by operators, is the responsibility of the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) in accordance with its functions under the Communications Regulation Act 2002, as amended.

I understand that ComReg advised O2 that it has serious reservations about the decision by O2 to switch consumers to this new online billing service. Discussions between ComReg and O2 are continuing. I understand from ComReg that O2 customers are entitled to receive a paper bill as standard and that they may do so by simply contacting O2 on 1909 to request this service.

Broadcasting Services

Leo Varadkar

Question:

478 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if there is any impediment to ComReg licensing RTE to use either channels 30, 34, or 39 for public service transmission of RTE from the Mount Leinster transmitter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37901/10]

The matter referred to by the Deputy relates to the assignment of spectrum, which is a matter for the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). ComReg is the statutory body responsible for the management of spectrum in Ireland, including that used by TV services as referred to in the Deputy's question, under the Communications Regulation Act 2002. ComReg is also responsible for issuing a licence to RTÉ in respect of television services transmitted by digital terrestrial means under the Broadcasting Act 2009.

I have no direct role in the assignment of specific spectrum.

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

479 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide details of the number of civil servants in each Government Department who are currently e-working; his plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if he will provide details of the numbers of civil servants he would hope to have e-working by end 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38191/10]

I would like to inform the Deputy that there are currently 12 civil servants e-working in my Department under the 2009-2010 e-working scheme. This represents approximately 4.5% of our overall Departmental numbers.

My Department has been very proactive in the area of e-working and introduced our first e-working scheme in 2004. It is the aim of the scheme to ensure that e-working is effective and mutually beneficial to both the e-worker and the Department. E-working contracts are reviewed on an annual basis.

The number of the staff availing of the e-working scheme is dependent on the business needs of the Department and the suitability of the role for e-working. The Department is flexible where possible in considering applications for the e-working scheme and it not envisaged that there will be a reduction in our current number of e-workers.

The Department will actively engage with any future proposals that evolve from the Smarter Travel document in the area of e-working.

Grant Payments

Olwyn Enright

Question:

480 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if grant aid for sheep fencing and mobile handling facilities has been made available to applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37127/10]

The Sheep Fencing and Handling Facilities Scheme will open for applications on 1 November next.

Farm Retirement Scheme

Olwyn Enright

Question:

481 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 84 of 7 April 2004 whether it was relevant to that application under the 1992 scheme, that the property had been let for ten months during the years 1996 and 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37130/10]

As outlined in the reply to Parliamentary Question 10960 of 7 April 2004, the application from the person named under the 1994 scheme was rejected for a number of reasons which were notified to the applicant. At the time the application was examined, my Department was not aware that she had her land let on the conacre system in the years from 1996 and, as a result, this issue was not included among the reasons for rejection.

In any event, the fact that the land was let on conacre from 1996 meant that the person concerned could not have fulfilled one of the scheme conditions which required that on the date on which the transfer/ lease documents were signed, the applicant had to be farming an area not less than 5 hectares and have practised farming as a main occupation for the preceding ten years.

Grant Payments

Michael Lowry

Question:

482 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when single farm payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37158/10]

An application under the 2010 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 22 April 2010. Following initial processing, an issue was identified relating to over-claim on certain of the land parcels declared, which necessitated resolution by the person named. To date, a response is awaited to my Department's letter of 14 October to the person named relating to this matter. Immediately a response is received, the matter will be processed further, with a view to payment at an early date.

P. J. Sheehan

Question:

483 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a decision will issue on an application under the installation aid scheme in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37161/10]

The person concerned is an applicant under the Young Farmers' Installation Scheme. Under the terms of the Scheme, payment of the grant is made once it has been established that the requirements of the Scheme have been met, including the conditions in relation to property, education and income. The outcome of my Department's examination of the application will be made known to the applicant as soon as possible.

Waste Management

Seymour Crawford

Question:

484 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason for the classification of pig offal as class three hazardous waste which prevents its use in biomass plants; his plans to remedy this anomaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37189/10]

In accordance with Regulation (EC) No. 1774/2002, pig offal is classified as a Category 3 animal by-product (ABP). This is the lowest risk category of animal by-product. Pig offal is not generally regarded as hazardous waste.

The normal method of disposal of pig offal is by rendering. The above mentioned regulation provides for a number of other approved methods of disposal of pig offal. These include using it as a raw material for manufacturing petfood.

The Diseases of Animals Act 1966 (Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies) (Fertilisers & Soil Improvers) Order 2008 — S.I. No. 253 of 2008 — places restrictions on the types of ABP that can be used in a compost or biogas plant. Raw ABP from abbatoirs or meat processing plants is not allowed be used in a compost or biogas plant. This is intended to help prevent the spread of diseases and to protect our valuable meat industry. These national restrictions are permitted under EU regulations.

Grant Payments

John O'Mahony

Question:

485 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their payment under the disadvantage area payment scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37232/10]

An application under the 2010 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 13 April 2010. The application of the person named is now processed and 75% advance payment due under the Disadvantaged Area Scheme has issued. The 25% balancing payments under that Scheme are scheduled to commence issuing as and from 20 October 2010.

John O'Mahony

Question:

486 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their payment under the area aid payment scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37234/10]

John O'Mahony

Question:

487 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their payment under the single farm payment scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37235/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 486 and 487 together.

An application under the Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Area Scheme was received from the person named on the 27 April 2010.

This application was selected for and was the subject of a ground eligibility and animal identification inspection.

While all of the cases selected for ground eligibility inspection have now been inspected and a high level of payment has been achieved under the scheme, processing of a small number of inspection results, including those of the person named, remain to be completed, following which payment should issue shortly thereafter.

Denis Naughten

Question:

488 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon will receive their payment; the reason for the delay in same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37249/10]

An application under the 2010 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 13 May 2010. Payments under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme commenced on 22 September, with an advance payment of 75% issuing in respect of those parcels cleared for payment at that stage. A number of parcels listed on the application of the person named required digitisation; immediately this process is complete, provided no errors are identified, the payment due will issue to the person named.

Michael Ring

Question:

489 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when payments will issue to applicants under the new agri-environment options scheme; the number of applicants who will receive the maximum payment rate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37250/10]

Under the EU Regulations governing the Agri-Environment Options Scheme and other area-based payment schemes, a comprehensive administrative check, including cross-checks with the Land Parcel Identification System, must be completed before any payment can issue. Payment will issue at the earliest possible date once these checks have been completed.

Until such time as all applications have been fully processed it is not possible to indicate the number of farmers qualifying for the maximum payment available under the scheme.

Rural Environment Protection Scheme

John O'Mahony

Question:

490 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the options available to farmers who are currently on REP scheme 3 and will finish in April 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37257/10]

The new Agri-Environment Options Scheme was introduced to give farmers the opportunity to participate in a scheme which rewards actions that benefit the environment. The scheme closed to applications on 17 May, 2010 and further participation will be determined by the level of funding available to my Department. All EU funding for the scheme up to the end of 2013 is now fully committed. Any further participation in the scheme in that period will have to be funded entirely by the Exchequer and this is a matter that will be considered in the context of the annual Estimates process.

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

491 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37295/10]

Details in relation to the Department's telecommunication providers are supplied in the following table:

Provider

Expenditure 2009

Expenditure to date 2010

Description

BT Communications Ireland Ltd.

28,907.42

11,413.40

Voice and Data Telecommunication Services

Complete Network Technology Ltd.

54,674.85

40,333.20

Data Telecommunication Services

Eircom Ltd.

3,140,929.89

2,707,420.29

Voice and Data Telecommunication Services

O2 Communications Ireland Ltd.

375,130.91

259,538.90

Mobile Voice and Data Telecommunication Services

Smart Telecom

22,681.42

22,586.21

Data Telecommunication Services

Vodafone

326,863.15

182,890.75

Mobile Voice and Data Telecommunication Services

In relation to agencies under the aegis of my Department, the provision of telecommunication services and their cost is an operational matter for the agencies themselves.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

492 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with energy providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37310/10]

My Department draws down energy from the Electricity Supply Board, Energia, Topaz, Bord Gáis, Flogas and Natural Power Supply. Payment to these companies vary from monthly to quarterly financial agreements. In so far as the State Agencies under the aegis of my Department are concerned the issues raised in the question are a matter for the agencies themselves as part of their day to day activities.

Grant Payments

Michael Ring

Question:

493 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the way an overpayment has arisen in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and the reason this person was only notified of this overpayment in October 2010 even though it relates to the 2007 single payment scheme. [37346/10]

The Department's records indicate that in 2007, the amount of nitrogen from livestock manure applied to land on the holding of the person named above (including that deposited by animals) was 233.23 kgs per hectare, which exceeded the limit of 170 kgs per hectare set down in the Nitrates Regulations.

My Department wrote to the person named on two occasions in 2008 notifying him that he had exceeded the Nitrogen limit for 2007, and asking him if there were any reasons why he believed the total Nitrogen from livestock manure applied to his lands was not above the 170 kg limit.

As no response was received to either of these two letters, the penalty was imposed. The person named was notified on 18 June 2010 and was advised of his right of appeal. There is no record of any appeal having been received. He was subsequently notified of the actual amount involved on 23 September 2010.

It was open to the person named to appeal this deduction, within a three month time limit from day of final decision (18 June 2010), by letter to the Agriculture Appeals Office, Kilminchy Court, Portlaoise, Co. Laois. The Agriculture Appeals Office is an independent body established to provide an appeals service to farmers in respect of decisions of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food relating to entitlements under the various schemes available.

While the three month deadline has passed, a case can still be made to the Agriculture Appeals Office for acceptance of a late appeal. In making the appeal a person must include all the facts and contentions upon which they intend to rely, together with such documentary evidence that they may wish to submit in support of an appeal.

Finian McGrath

Question:

494 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason for non-payment of disadvantaged area payment for 2009 to a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon and the reason for refusal to join the REP scheme. [37347/10]

An application under the 2009 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 22 March 2009. The Terms and Conditions governing the Scheme require, inter alia, that applicants maintain a minimum stocking density on their holding of 0.15 livestock units per forage hectare declared, for at least three consecutive months, during the calendar year of application. However, where the holding of an applicant is identified as not meeting this minimum requirement, the person in question is invited to submit evidence of satisfactory stocking i.e. Flock Register, Horse Passports or details of a REPS or Commonage Framework Plan, which provides for a lower stocking level. My Department records currently do not show the person named as having achieved the minimum stocking density. On satisfaction of this requirement, the application can be further processed with a view to payment at an early date. There is no record of a REPS application from the person named.

Michael Ring

Question:

495 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason an appeal was refused when substantive evidence was provided to support the appeal (details supplied); if the decision to disallow the appeal can be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37358/10]

This case was adjudicated on by an Appeals Officer and a decision issued on 7th October 2010. The herdowner was deemed ineligible for the Installation Aid Scheme as he did not have sufficient owned/leased land to generate at least 20 income units within 12 months of set up. This is one of the fundamental requirements of eligibility as outlined in the terms and conditions of the Scheme. The herdowner was given the option of referring the matter to the Office of the Ombudsman. Alternatively, if the herdowner is satisfied that a mistake had been made in relation to the law or the facts of the case he may request the Director of the Agriculture Appeals Office to revise the decision.

Food Labelling

Rory O'Hanlon

Question:

496 Deputy Rory O’Hanlon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the proposals for labelling country of origin on agricultural produce in Ireland or at European Union level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37380/10]

The Minister for Health and Children has overall responsibility for the general food labelling legislation. Responsibility for the enforcement of this legislation rests with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI). This is done through service contracts with other relevant agencies including the Health Service Executive, the Local Authority Veterinary Service, the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority and my Department. Under current EU food labelling legislation, country of origin marking is required in cases where failure to provide such information would be likely to mislead the consumer to a material degree.

Draft amended EU Regulations are being considered at Council Working Party level in Brussels. Ireland is represented in these negotiations by the Department of Health and Children. There is limited support from other Member States for compulsory country of origin labelling in these negotiations. Ireland is pressing for compulsory country of origin labelling on all meat products.

Grant Payments

John O'Donoghue

Question:

497 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive their disadvantaged area payment. [37400/10]

An application under the Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Area Scheme was received from the person named on the 13 May 2010.

This application was selected for and was the subject of a Ground Eligibility and Animal Identification Inspection. During this visit discrepancies were found in relation to parcels H20918027, H20918028 and H21902050. As a result of these discrepancies the claimed area for Single payment of 73.59ha was reduced to 69.09. As the total area found is not sufficient to support the number of entitlements held penalties will be applied per the Terms and Conditions of the scheme. In this case the number entitlements held by the person named is 100.49. As the difference between the area declared and the area found is more than 3%, under EU Regulations, the difference between the area found and the area claimed is doubled and deducted from the area found. As a result the area put forward for payment under the Single Payment Scheme was 60.09ha.

The person named was informed of these findings on the 14 October and of his right to seek a review of this decision within 21 days and of his right to appeal the outcome of any such review. The inspection process is completed and the application has now been fully processed, which will allow payment under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme to issue shortly.

Aquaculture Licences

Martin Ferris

Question:

498 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will provide a licence template drawn up in consultation with the salmon aquaculture sector to ensure the immediate and unconditional reintroduction of salmon aquaculture into the national development plan for fisheries and make an urgent start to the pilot project on sea lice. [37407/10]

My Department is currently engaged in an extensive revision of the terms and conditions of aquaculture licences including licences for the cultivation of salmon. All relevant stakeholders including industry representatives have been closely involved with this process. The aim of this review is to ensure that aquaculture licences remain fit for purpose in the context of the challenges and opportunities facing the industry in the medium term. The review process is currently nearing completion.

Regarding the National Development Plan for fisheries, the Irish National Seafood Programme was launched in July this year to provide grant aid from Exchequer funding to certain aspects of the fishing industry, including aquaculture. In the course of the public and statutory consultation process of the strategic environmental assessment of this Programme, concerns were raised by the Central and Regional Fisheries Boards and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources concerning the possible negative impact on migratory wild salmonids from sea lice emanating from salmon farms. Minister Connick and I agreed with the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources that, in the context of this National Programme, until such time as concerns in relation to the sea lice infestation control issue has been satisfactorily resolved, no financial assistance would be given to marine salmon aquaculture operators, on a precautionary basis.

In order to support the salmon aquaculture sector in achieving its considerable economic potential, it is necessary to effectively address the issue of sea lice infestation control. "A strategy for improved pest control on Irish salmon farms" was launched in May 2008 by my Department and has been implemented by it and its Agencies since then. In the 2008 to 2010 period since the introduction of the new Strategy there has been a sustained reduction in the level of ovigerous (egg bearing) lice and a sustained incremental improvement in overall levels of lice infestation on farms in critical spring period, when there is a risk of cross infection of wild salmonids. During the period of implementation of the new Strategy there has also been a sustained incremental improvement in overall lice infestation on salmon farms during the critical spring period.

To complement the progress made by the implementation of the Strategy, it has been proposed that a pilot project be undertaken in this area through the National Seafood Programme. It is envisaged that the project would seek to develop comprehensive measures to improve sea lice infestation control efficiency in the marine salmon farming industry. Minister Connick and I are presently discussing with BIM and the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources arrangements for this proposal. I understand that a strategic environmental assessment of the project would be necessary before it could commence and BIM is examining this issue.

Harbours and Piers

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

499 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will provide an update on the funding for the construction of a breakwater (details supplied) in County Donegal; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the pause in construction is likely to result in the erosion of the partially built section of the breakwater; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37408/10]

Greencastle harbour is owned by Donegal County Council and the maintenance and development of the harbour is the responsibility of the Council in the first instance.

My Department has, however, in recent years, project managed works on phase 1 of the Greencastle Harbour development project on behalf of Donegal County Council as well as providing funding. Some €104,000 was allocated this year for the Greencastle project under the Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme to suspend the works in a safe and acceptable manner. My Department's Engineers are currently monitoring the breakwater on a regular basis in order to assess its condition. It is, of course, open to Donegal County Council as owners of the harbour at Greencastle to continue works on the breakwater out of their own resources.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

500 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of his Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37563/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

501 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the new State-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of his Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37578/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 500 and 501 together.

The Sea Fishery Protection Authority was established on 1st January 2007. However, it was established under the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (the now DCENR) and did not come under the aegis of my Department until late 2007. The annual budgets for this body for each of the years concerned are:

2007

2008

2009

2010

Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA)

€10,954,0001

€13,296,000

€10,853,000

€11,324,000

As a non-commercial body, the question of turnover does not apply to this agency.

1(€5,983,000 from the Department of Communications Marine and Natural Resources and €4,971,000 the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food).

Grant Payments

Finian McGrath

Question:

502 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the disadvantaged area payment will be made to person (details supplied) in County Leitrim. [37601/10]

An application under the 2010 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 17 May 2010. Payments under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme commenced on 22 September, with an advance payment of 75% issuing in respect of those parcels cleared for payment at that stage. A number of parcels listed on the application required digitisation; immediately this process is complete, provided no errors are identified, payment due will issue to the person named.

Milk Prices

John O'Donoghue

Question:

503 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to address the problem highlighted by the 2009 national milk agency report which shows that since 1999 farmers’ share of the retail milk price has fallen from 43% to 26%. [37613/10]

Dairy farmers' incomes comprise the market price paid for milk and direct income support from the EU. There has of course been a significant increase in milk prices in 2010 compared to the previous year, and the outlook is very much more positive than it was this time last year. As Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, I am committed to developing a strong and vibrant dairy sector, and this is evidenced by the ambitious 50% production expansion target laid down in the Food Harvest 2020 Plan for the development of the agri food sector.

At EU level, I have and will continue to support the retention of a strong Common Agriculture Policy, including direct payments and the full array of market supports, and will continue to represent the interests of the Irish farm sector in the discussions on CAP post 2013. The effective deployment of market supports in 2009, which I had argued strongly for, put a floor under the market and helped to reverse the downward trend in prices at that time.

It is also critically important, against the background of volatile international dairy markets, that farmers and others in the supply chain adopt best practice to improve efficiency, reduce costs and maximise returns. In this context my Department has provided €18 million over three years to support Dairy Discussion Groups, in order to increase the level of participation and ensure that farmer members have access to the latest scientific and technological data, coupled to practical operational advice, designed to reduce costs and increase margins.

On the question of retail prices, the Renewed Programme for Government contains a specific commitment to "implement a Code of Practice for doing business in the Grocery Goods sector to develop a fair trading relationship between retailers and their suppliers" and "to review progress of the Code and if necessary to put in place a mandatory code". The Government will give effect to this commitment by including a specific provision in the legislation, currently being prepared by my colleague the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, to merge the National Consumer Agency and the Competition Authority, which will allow for the introduction of statutory Codes of Practice in areas such as the grocery goods sector. Minister O'Keeffe expects to publish this legislation early next year. In the interim period until the legislation is enacted, the possibility of agreeing a Voluntary Code, which would respect the interests of all parties, is being explored with all the relevant stakeholders.

The Government is strongly committed to ensuring that Ireland continues to have vibrant agri food and retail sectors, particularly given the importance of these sectors to the national economy. The Government considers it important, therefore, that there is balance and transparency in the relationship between the various players in the grocery goods sector. The introduction of a Code of Practice, as provided for in the Programme for Government, is intended to achieve such a balance taking into account the interests of all stakeholders in the grocery goods sector including the interests of the consumer.

Common Agricultural Policy

John O'Donoghue

Question:

504 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his main priorities regarding Irish agriculture in the context of the forthcoming review of the Common Agricultural Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37614/10]

My overarching view is that we need a strong and adequately resourced CAP after 2013. This policy must support sustainable and competitive agriculture in the years ahead and, in particular, the development of our vision for the sector as espoused in Food Harvest 2020. We need to ensure security of food supply and maintain family farming in Europe. However, as an exporting country, we also need a policy that underpins competitiveness and innovation.

The first challenge will be to secure an acceptable EU budget. The second will be to ensure that the share going to agriculture will be sufficient to provide a strong and supportive agricultural policy. The third challenge will be to secure that the share of agriculture funds going to Ireland is adequate for our needs. One of my priorities in these negotiations will be to preserve the Irish national envelope. My primary aim is to secure a direct payments system that provides our fair share of funding and that supports the viability of Irish farming. As to market supports, I believe that the existing measures should be continued and enhanced. I also believe we need additional tools to address the much increased volatility in markets.

On rural development, we need to focus on the twin goals of competitiveness and sustainability. Measures that are directed at investment and which promote competitiveness perform a key role in encouraging efficiency and innovation in farming. They should be maintained and enhanced. We must also have strong agri-environment actions in our rural development policy including targeted payments for public goods, support for the development of bio-energy on farms, and for innovative actions to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Our off–farm rural development actions should be consistent with this while focusing on genuinely rural areas and emphasising job creation.

In this context, and looking to the CAP of the future, my priorities are to make sure that it:

supports farm incomes and addresses the issue of price and income volatility, while avoiding market distortions,

encourages competitiveness and innovation through appropriate measures, including support for farm investment, and

promotes sustainability, in all its dimensions, and rewards farmers for the public goods they produce.

By doing this we will ensure that the CAP delivers a secure supply of quality food to our consumers and decent incomes to our farmers, while protecting and enhancing the natural environment.

Farm Household Incomes

John O'Donoghue

Question:

505 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if farm incomes have stabilised and if he can furnish figures for 2007, 2008, 2009, and to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37615/10]

The most recently published data on farm incomes is in Teagasc's National Farm Survey for 2009, which estimated that average farm income for that year was €11,968. Full-time farms, as defined by Teagasc, had an average farm income of €24,214. The following table shows the equivalent figures for 2008 and 2007. Direct comparison with 2010 is not yet possible as the 2010 survey will not be published until next year. However, in their mid-year update, published in July, Teagasc estimated that dairy, cereal and sheep margins will improve in 2010 due to higher output prices and lower inputs costs. They found that beef margins would remain relatively unchanged.

Average Family Farm Income by System of Farming

2007

2008

2009

All Farms

19,687

16,993

11,968

Full-time farms

43,938

37,950

24,214

Source: Teagasc, National Farm Survey (various years).

Grant Payments

Michael Ring

Question:

506 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when persons (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their disadvantaged area scheme payment for 2010 following the ground inspection of their lands. [37678/10]

An application under the Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Area Scheme was received from the person named on the 23 April 2010. This application was selected for and was the subject of a ground eligibility inspection. While all of the cases selected for ground eligibility inspection have now been inspected and a high level of payment has been achieved under the scheme, processing of a small number of inspection results, including those of the person named, remain to be completed, following which payment should issue shortly thereafter.

Forestry Sector

Paul Connaughton

Question:

507 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if the employment of between four to six persons on contract to carry out a repeat national forestry inventory has been completed; if funding for the employment for such personnel has been sought from the Department of Finance; what the reply has been to date; if he will provide the possible costs involved in carbon credit purchasers if the inventory is not completed by 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37687/10]

In March 2009 the Government announced a moratorium on promotion and recruitment in the civil service. Under the terms of the moratorium, no posts can be filled without the prior sanction of the Minister for Finance. Accordingly, sanction has been requested from the Department of Finance to recruit officers on a temporary basis to undertake the national forest inventory. Discussions are ongoing with the Department of Finance in this regard.

For the purpose of the Kyoto Protocol Irish forests will sequester 11 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (Mt CO2) over the 5-year period to the end of 2012. This amount is 25% of the emission reductions arising from existing measures outlined in the National Climate Change Strategy. The cost saving in carbon purchases in today’s terms is €220 million. The reporting and accounting of forests as carbon sinks under the Kyoto Protocol agreements are subject to rigorous reporting procedures which must conform to the good practice guidelines (GPG) of the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). While failure to comply with the IPCC GPG guidance would result in revision and re-adjustment of the claimed emission reductions and a loss of revenue, I am confident that the National Forest Inventory will be completed by the end of 2012.

Animal Carcase Disposal

Paul Connaughton

Question:

508 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the introduction of a culling or scrappage scheme in order to rid the country of the vast number of inferior types of horses now on Irish farms; the estimated number of such horses not having official identification; his views on whether there is a need to provide an incentive to breeders to improve horse quality at different levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37712/10]

Decisions regarding the type of horse an individual chooses to breed are a matter for the individual breeder. My Department has provided incentives and assistance through a range of measures down through the years, in accordance with European Commission State Aid Guidelines, aimed at improving equine quality. These measures are contained within the NDP 2007-2013. Since 2007 my Department has provided €2.3m in assistance through organisations such as the approved equine studbooks, the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders Association and the Racing Academy and Centre for Education for the purposes of improving equine quality. Projects approved for funding included training for breeders, exchange of information, DNA testing, genetic indexing, performance testing and mare inspections and studbook improvement.

In addition, almost €5m has been provided by my Department in grant aid to Horse Sport Ireland since 2007, the organisation established to develop and promote an internationally competitive Irish sport horse industry. The Deputy may wish to note that it is not permitted to make payments to producers under the current European Commission State Aid Guidelines. It is a requirement that all equines are identified in accordance with Commission Regulation (EC) No. 504/2008. Both my Department and I have reminded breeders of their responsibilities in this regard on several occasions. The Farm Animal Welfare Council (FAWAC) recently reminded all horse owners that all horses must be identified and be in possession of a valid passport.

My Department does not have an estimate of the number of equines, of the type specified by the Deputy, which are not identified in accordance with this Regulation. I have made the point previously that Ireland is recognised globally as a world leader in the production and rearing of equines. To maintain this position, equine producers need to ensure that they continue to produce high quality, sound and healthy animals that are ‘in demand' in the international market place. Whilst as an island, Ireland has certain advantages in protecting against exotic disease; we must continually be on our guard. The fundamentals of good animal health systems are grounded on traceability, built upon robust identification and registration systems. It is a legal requirement since July 2009 that each equine being identified, be implanted with a microchip and to have a passport issued from an approved studbook or horse passport agency, with the details relating to the animal recorded on a database maintained by the passport issuing body. Following consultation with industry representatives, I have decided that the registration process will in future be completed by 31 December of the year of birth of the animal, or six months after its birth, whichever date occurs later.

Grant Payments

John Perry

Question:

509 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if it is possible for a person (details supplied) in County Sligo to have a parcel of land included in their REPS 4 plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37715/10]

The person concerned submitted a REPS 4 application in July 2009. The REPS contract was given a start date of 1 January 2010 and is currently being processed for payment together with all other 2010 applications. As the REPS 4 scheme is now closed, an extra parcel cannot be included or claimed on the plan. It is open to a participant, however, to submit an amended application including an extra parcel without claiming payment on same.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

510 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Galway will receive their area based payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37899/10]

An application under the Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Area Scheme was received from the person named on the 13 May 2010. This application was selected for and was the subject of a ground eligibility inspection. While all of the cases selected for ground eligibility inspection have now been inspected and a high level of payment has been achieved under the scheme, processing of a small number of inspection results, including those of the person named, remain to be completed, following which payment should issue shortly thereafter.

Aquaculture Licences

Lucinda Creighton

Question:

511 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of appeals before the aquaculture licensing appeals board in the years 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37912/10]

The following table outlines the number of appeals before the Aquaculture Licensing Appeals Board in the years 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and to date in 2010

Year

No. of Appeals b/f from previous year

No. of Appeals rec’d in year

No. of Appeals before the Board in year

No. of Appeals c/f to following year

2006

1

6

7

5

2007

5

0

5

0

2008

0

1

1

0

2009

0

0

0

0

2010 to date

0

0

0

0

The main reason for the number of Appeals before the Board falling to its current level is that it has not proven possible to make determinations on many aquaculture licence applications since 2008, following a European Court of Justice Judgement in relation to the implementation of the Birds and Habitats Directives in Natura 2000 areas, where most aquaculture occurs. A cross Departmental exercise between my Department and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the relevant Agencies of the two Departments has been underway to collect all the necessary environmental information in the relevant marine Natura 2000 areas to enable licence determinations to re-commence in compliance with the Natura 2000 Directives. When licence determinations commence in the Natura 2000 areas the number of appeals to the Appeals Board is expected to increase.

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

512 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will provide details of the number of civil servants in each Government Department who are currently e-working; his plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if he will provide details of the numbers of civil servants he would hope to have e-working by end 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38190/10]

My Department has been operating an e-working Scheme since September 2007. The Scheme enables officers to work from an office more convenient to their home. The criteria for approval require that local line management is satisfied that both the person and the work are deemed suitable for e-working. Availability of office accommodation is also a factor. It is the intention of my Department that this scheme will continue to operate and as many officers as possible will be accommodated. Currently there are 37 members of staff e-working from various offices around the country.

Employment Rights

Billy Timmins

Question:

513 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the number of Employment Appeals Tribunal cases listed for hearing in the year 2009 and January to September 2010; the number of these cases proceeded in front of the tribunal; the number that were decided in favour of the employer; the number decided in favour of the employee; the average cost to the State of an EAT case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37642/10]

In 2009, the number of cases, that were allocated a date for hearing, was 3,508. Some of these would have been allocated a 2010 Hearing date. In the period January to September 2010, the number of cases that were allocated a date for Hearing was 3,148. In 2009, the number of cases disposed of was 5,053. Some of these would have been allocated a 2009 Hearing date in 2008. In the period January to September 2010, the number of cases disposed of was 4,713. Some of these would have been allocated a 2010 Hearing date in 2009.

Data on the content of Determinations of the Employment Appeals Tribunal are not collected on a systematic basis, so it is not possible at present to readily extract information. The Tribunal hears claims under 18 separate pieces of legislation. Some are heard on first instance and some on appeal. Some are simple cases and can be disposed of in an hour while some, e.g., Unfair Dismissals cases, are complex and can take up to 4 days. Costs will, therefore, vary greatly depending on the legislative basis of the claim, its complexity and the location of the Hearing, to such an extent that an average cost figure would have little meaning.

Redundancy Payments

Pat Breen

Question:

514 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be facilitated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37094/10]

My Department administers the Social Insurance Fund (SIF) in relation to redundancy matters on behalf of the Department of Social Protection. 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 wish to advise the Deputy that on the basis of valid claims entered in the Redundancy Payments System in my Department, there is no record of a redundancy claim having been received in respect of the individual in question. It is my Department's practice not to enter incomplete claims on the system as these claims cannot be processed until the necessary documentation is submitted. Forms are returned to allow missing details and/or supporting documentation to be submitted. Submission of correctly completed Redundancy claim forms (RP50's) with all of the required documentation greatly facilitates the processing of claims.

Under Redundancy legislation the onus, in the first instance, is on the employer to pay to the employee their redundancy entitlements. The employer is then entitled, by virtue of pay related social contributions to the Social Insurance Fund, to recover 60% of the amount paid to the employee. In circumstances where the employer is unable to pay the redundancy entitlements, a claim can be lodged with the Department and 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 requesting a statement from the company's Accountant or Solicitor attesting to the inadequacy of assets to make the redundancy payments and, the latest set of financial accounts for the company. The employer is also asked to admit liability for the 40% liability attaching to the company arising from the redundancy payments.

If this information is provided to the Department, the employees are paid their redundancy entitlement from the Social Insurance Fund. Upon payment, the Department pursues the company for the 40% share that the company would ordinarily have been expected to pay to the employees. 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.

Jack Wall

Question:

515 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kildare has not being paid their redundancy payment; if the Department has received all documents regarding the redundancy or if there is any outstanding documents needed to determine the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37128/10]

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

I can confirm that my Department received a statutory redundancy lump sum claim on the 1st December, 2009 in respect of the above individual indicating his employer terminated his employment on the 2 October, 2009. In the course of processing the claim, queries have been raised with the employer. I understand that my Department has recently been in contact with the employer regarding the outstanding matters. The claim will be processed for payment as soon as these queries are resolved.

Redundancy payments are calculated by my Department on the basis of the information provided on the statutory redundancy claim form (RP50) confirmed by the signatures of the employer and employee. In the event of a dispute between the employer and the employee concerning the employee's right to a correct lump sum, the employee may decide to bring the matter to the Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) for adjudication. If the Tribunal rules in favour of an employee, and if the employer continues to refuse to pay the amount due, the employee should then send a copy of the EAT Decision, together with the RP50 form to the Department for payment of the lump sum from the Social Insurance Fund.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

516 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the date on which an application for redundancy payments was received in his Department in respect of a person (details supplied); the reason this application has not been processed to completion in view of the fact that the company is insolvent; when the person will receive their entitlement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37133/10]

My Department administers the Social Insurance Fund (SIF) in relation to redundancy matters on behalf of the Department of Social Protection. 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 to the Deputy that a redundancy lump sum claim was received by my Department in respect of the individual concerned on 20 August 2009. In the course of processing the claim, my Department requested from the former employer evidence of inability to pay but does not appear to have received any response to this correspondence. In light of the time lapse since receipt of the claim by my Department and that no progress has been made on the issues arising on the claim, it would perhaps be best at this point if the claimant could make direct contact with the Redundancy Payments Section of my Department. I am providing the Deputy's office with the contact details of the relevant officer in my Department.

Sean Fleming

Question:

517 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation when redundancy payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37188/10]

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

I can confirm that my Department received a statutory redundancy lump sum claim on 8 September, 2010 in respect of the above individual and that the claim awaits processing. In this case, I understand that my Department has already raised some queries with the employer in advance of processing the claim. In respect of lump sum payments paid directly to employees in instances where employers are unable to pay the statutory redundancy entitlements, the current processing time for these claims has improved and claims dating from March 2010 are currently being processed. Of course in some instances, where the necessary supporting documentation for lump sum claims is not provided to my Department, or where queries arise, processing of claims can be further delayed until the required documentation is provided and/or outstanding queries are resolved.

My Department continues to make every effort to reduce processing times. Measures already taken in the Department to alleviate the pressures on the Payments area include:

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

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

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

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

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

The backlog and waiting times remain at unacceptable levels. However, improvements are evident. In 2009, my Department processed 50,664 claims, up 70% on the previous year. Furthermore, the level of new claims processed in the first nine months of 2010 was 58,202 — up over 81% on the corresponding 9-month period in 2009 (32,127) and surpassing the total amount of claims processed for the full year 2009 which came to 50,644. The backlog of claims is decreasing — reducing from its highest level in November 2009 of 43,608 to a current level of 29,776.

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

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

518 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the reason for the delay in processing the applications for redundancy payment from the social insurance fund and for unpaid wages under the insolvency payments scheme in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cavan; if he will expedite this application in view of the amount owed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37289/10]

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

I can confirm that my Department received a statutory redundancy lump sum claim on 28 April, 2009 in respect of the above individual. A query arose in regard to the individual's eligibility under the Social Welfare Acts that has since been resolved. In the course of processing the claim, a further query has been raised with the employer. I understand that my Department has recently been in contact with the employer regarding the outstanding matter. The claim will be processed for payment as soon as this query is resolved.

My Department also received an application under the Insolvency Payments Scheme in May 2009 from the individual in question in respect of arrears of holiday pay, arrears of wages and minimum notice. Claims under the Insolvency Payments Scheme can only be processed if an employer is legally insolvent within the definition of the Protection of Employees (Employers' Insolvency) Act 1984, and certified by a "Relevant Officer" normally a liquidator or receiver. This application was not certified by a Relevant Officer and the Companies Registration Office records confirmed that the company was not in liquidation. Unfortunately, in these circumstances my Department is not in a position to process the claim and the claim was returned to the applicant.

Should the individual wish to seek further advice in relation to the pursuance of her outstanding entitlements against her former employer, she may wish to contact the National Employment Rights Authority (NERA), for further advice at Lo-call 1890 80 80 90.

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

519 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37300/10]

Contracts held by my Department and its offices with telecommunication providers relate to three distinct areas: fixed data communications, fixed voice communications and mobile communications. A three stage review of these contracts is under way with a view to making significant cost savings as follows:

Fixed Data Communications.

Following a recent public tendering procedure, my Department has negotiated a contract with UPC to replace existing data communications links. This new contract is a fixed price contract payable quarterly and is expected to last for four years, subject to annual review. Significant cost savings are expected over that period compared to the previous contract. The existing contract with Eircom will terminate when the new connections are in place.

Fixed Voice Communications.

My Department currently has a contract with Eircom for the provision of fixed voice communications which involves quarterly payment on receipt of valid bills. Following installation of the data communications mentioned in above it is my Department's intention to issue a tender under the new Government ‘Fixed voice and Voice over IP Framework'. This is likely to take place in the first quarter of 2011 and given market conditions my Department would expect to achieve significant cost savings as a result.

Mobile Communications.

My Department currently has a contract with Vodafone for the provision of mobile phone and data communications which involves monthly payments on receipt of valid bills. Vodafone were awarded this contract under the Government ‘Mobile Voice and Data Framework'. A new tender under this Framework is expected to issue in the first quarter of 2011.

The information requested by the Deputy in relation to the State Agencies that come under the aegis of my Department is a day to day administrative matter for the agencies concerned.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

520 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with energy providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37315/10]

My Department and the Offices of my Department do not have specific contracts with energy providers. The energy requirements of my Department and the Offices of my Department are catered for under special arrangements negotiated for Government Departments, Offices and Agencies by the Office of Public Works (through the Government Supplies Agency/National Procurement Service). I understand that the Office of Public Works/Department of Finance are providing details of those arrangements to the Deputy today.

Research Funding

Joe McHugh

Question:

521 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the position regarding the third level review (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37370/10]

I understand that the Deputy's question refers to the recently announced Research Prioritisation Exercise for which my Department has lead policy responsibility. The purpose of this exercise is to identify priority areas of focus for Irish Research for the future. It will aim to identify priority areas, or approaches to tackling national challenges, that we face and to concentrate future investment in publicly funded Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) in those areas. The project will take account of research areas where Ireland has built significant strength to date and particularly areas that have the greatest potential to deliver sustainable economic return through enterprise development, employment creation, or indeed, quality of life.

A High Level Steering Group has been established to oversee the project. This Steering Group draws on national and international expertise in the private and public sectors, as well as senior Government officials, and is expected to submit its final report to Government within a year. The Steering Group will ensure that, in conducting its work, there is an appropriate level of engagement and consultation with all interested stakeholders.

FÁS Training Programmes

Willie Penrose

Question:

522 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if his attention has been drawn to the changes regarding FÁS payments that are excluding workers from accessing training by virtue of a circular in January 2010, and which in effect introduces a habitual residency requirement to access training which is contrary to EU Regulation 1612/68; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37396/10]

Following the transfer of responsibility for FÁS with effect from 1st May 2010 this is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Education and Skills.

Redundancy Payments

Pat Breen

Question:

523 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be facilitated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37538/10]

My Department administers the Social Insurance Fund (SIF) in relation to redundancy matters on behalf of the Department of Social Protection. 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 wish to advise the Deputy that on the basis of valid claims entered in the Redundancy Payments System in my Department, there is no record of a redundancy claim having been received in respect of the individual in question. It is my Department's practice not to enter incomplete claims on the system as these claims cannot be processed until the necessary documentation is submitted. Forms are returned to allow missing details and/or supporting documentation to be submitted. Submission of correctly completed Redundancy claim forms (RP50's) with all of the required documentation greatly facilitates the processing of claims. Under Redundancy legislation the onus, in the first instance, is on the employer to pay to the employee their redundancy entitlements. The employer is then entitled, by virtue of pay related social contributions to the Social Insurance Fund, to recover 60% of the amount paid to the employee.

In circumstances where the employer is unable to pay the redundancy entitlements, a claim can be lodged with the Department and 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 requesting a statement from the company's Accountant or Solicitor attesting to the inadequacy of assets to make the redundancy payments and, the latest set of financial accounts for the company. The employer is also asked to admit liability for the 40% liability attaching to the company arising from the redundancy payments.

If this information is provided to the Department, the employees are paid their redundancy entitlement from the Social Insurance Fund. Upon payment, the Department pursues the company for the 40% share that the company would ordinarily have been expected to pay to the employees.

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.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

524 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the position regarding an application for statutory redundancy in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37543/10]

Under the Redundancy Payments Acts all eligible employees are entitled to a statutory redundancy lump sum payment on being made redundant. The scheme provides that an employee is entitled to two weeks pay for every year of service, plus a bonus week, subject to the prevailing maximum ceiling on gross weekly pay that is currently set at €600. The statutory redundancy scheme operated by the Department on behalf of the Department of Social Protection is concerned only with the statutory minimum payments to which employees are entitled.

Eligibility for persons to qualify under the Scheme requires that:

The employee must have at least two years continuous service (104 weeks) in the employment of the employer;

The employee must be in employment that is insurable under the Social Welfare Acts. Full-time employees must be in employment which is insurable for all benefits under the Social Welfare Acts; this does not apply to part-time employees;

The employee must be 16 years and upwards;

The employee must have been made redundant as a result of a genuine redundancy situation.

I can confirm to the Deputy that a claim in respect of the individual was received by my Department on 15 January, 2010. Unfortunately, the claimant has insufficient service related to his particular period of employment and does not therefore qualify under the eligibility criteria set down by Redundancy legislation. In these circumstances, his claim cannot be processed.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

525 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of his Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37568/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

526 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the new State-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of his Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37583/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 525 and 526 together.

Since 2007, my Department established the National Employment Rights Authority and the National Consumer Agency.

The Information requested by the Deputy in relation to these bodies is as follows:

(1) The National Employment Rights Authority (NERA) was established on an interim basis in February, 2007 in line with the commitment inTowards 2016 to securing enhanced compliance with legal requirements, underpinned by adequate enforcement and to greatly enhance public confidence in the system of compliance. The Employment Law Compliance Bill, when enacted, will place NERA on a statutory footing. The cost of NERA since 2007 is as follows:

2007 Outturn — €6.957m;

2008 Outturn — €9.596m;

2009 Outturn — €7.936m;

2010 Budget — €7.824.

(2) The National Consumer Agency (NCA) was established on a statutory basis on the 1st May 2007 following the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act 2007. The former Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs (ODCA) was subsumed into the NCA and the Act gave the Agency a much wider remit with particular functions in the areas such as consumer research, advocacy, education and awareness, information and enforcement. The cost of the NCA since 2007 is as follows:

2007 Outturn — €7.078m (ODCA and NCA together);

2008 Outturn — €7.587m;

2009 Outturn — €6.105m;

2010 Budget — €7.232m.

Insofar as State-owned companies are concerned, none has been established by my Department since 2007.

Departmental Correspondence

Shane McEntee

Question:

527 Deputy Shane McEntee asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied). [37689/10]

The matters raised by the Deputy are contractual matters between the company concerned and contractors engaged by the company directly. Accordingly, they are not matters within my area of responsibility.

While the Health and Safety Authority does come within the aegis of my Department, I am not responsible for its day to day operations nor would it be appropriate to comment on its individual dealings with a company or site. I have, however, passed your correspondence to the Authority for information and whatever action may be deemed appropriate.

Economic Competitiveness

Richard Bruton

Question:

528 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation further to Parliamentary Question No. 132 of 17 November 2009 if he will publish the prioritised list of Competition Authority recommendations which was drawn up by his Department; if all relevant Government Ministers have replied to his Department giving their views on the way progress can be made in order to implement those recommendations; the progress that has been made to date in implementing those recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37733/10]

The Building Ireland’s Smart Economy document, published in December 2008, contained a commitment to publish a whole-of-Government response to recommendations contained in Competition Authority reports within nine months of their publication. The October 2009 Renewed Programme for Government further strengthened this pledge.

Following on from the commitment, my Department drew up an initial prioritised list of 21 recommendations, based on their impact on competitiveness. These recommendations related, directly or indirectly, to five Government Departments and are set out below.

Earlier this year, following engagement with each of the five Ministers, Government reviewed the progress made by the relevant Government Departments in responding to the 21 recommendations and a Government Statement to this effect issued in April 2010. I attach for the Deputy's information a copy of the Government Statement.

Government Statement — 8 April 2010

Progress on the implementation of competition recommendations welcomed by Government

The Government, at its meeting on the 11th March 2010, reviewed the progress made by a number of Government Departments in responding to recommendations contained in reports published by the Competition Authority. The Government noted that 40% of the Competition Authority's recommendations made between 2000 and 2009 have been implemented, with a further 9% being progressed.

The reports by the Competition Authority result from studies it has carried out on various sectors or professions at regular intervals and usually contain a suite of recommendations, aimed at improving competition in the relevant area and addressed to the responsible Government Departments or body.

The Government, in welcoming the progress made, stressed the importance of recognising that consumers, both business and individuals, are the final beneficiaries of strong enforcement of competition rules.

The Government is pleased to note the progress achieved in relation to some key recommendations based on their impact on competitiveness including:

The reduction of the wholesale mark-up on medicines from 17.66% to 10% and the retail mark-up paid to pharmacists, in respect of medicines supplied under the Drugs Payment and the Long Term Illness Schemes, from 50% to 20%.

The removal of a derogation preventing non-Irish qualified pharmacists from owning, operating or managing pharmacies which are less than three years old which will contribute to the further opening up of the pharmacy market.

The finalising of a contract allowing suitably qualified Clinical Dental Technicians to be reimbursed under the Department of Social and Family Affairs' Dental Benefit Scheme.

The introduction of legislation which will facilitate the creation of a level playing field for all bus operators, both public and private, in the provision of bus services. The measures will serve the public interest by promoting regulated competition in the provision of public bus passenger services.

Further consideration of the Competition Authority's recommendation that legal fees should, in practice, be based (and awarded) on work done, and not by reference to the size of the award received by the client, in the context of the drafting of a Legal Costs Bill.

The publication shortly of an Issues Paper for public consultation to help inform the drafting of new Retail Planning Guidelines. The new guidelines will strengthen the recognition of the benefits of a competition focus within development planning and development management and include a proposed methodology for incorporating a competition health check assessment by planning authorities.

Two recent publications have noted the importance of Ministers and their departments engaging constructively with this process. The National Competitiveness Council, in a June 2009 report, identified the application of competition law in all sectors of the economy as a priority for improving cost competitiveness and sustaining jobs (Getting Fit Again: The Short Term Priorities to Restore Competitiveness; National Competitiveness Council; 2009).

In addition, the recently published OECD 2009 Survey of Ireland welcomed the initiative and stated "the proposal that government departments should be required formally to consider and respond to reports of [the Competition Authority] is useful and would bring Irish practice into line with other countries".

The Government acknowledges that competition can play a key role in ensuring that the Irish economy regains its competitiveness. It believes that increased competition contributes strongly to achieving high productivity and keeping prices low and therefore must operate in all sectors of the economy.

The absence of competition, whether within internationally traded or locally traded areas of the economy, has the potential to slow Ireland's move to sustainable market-based growth. While competition has been a feature of the internationally traded sector to date, there is evidence that it is not as prevalent in the locally-traded sector as it should be. The commitment in the Building Ireland's Smart Economy document, and in the Renewed Programme for Government, to respond to Competition Authority recommendations, will help address this issue.

The Government is very aware that consumers will be the ultimate losers from any lack of competition since this will mean increased costs, less choice or lower service quality.

The Government also decided to visit this matter, on a half-yearly basis to ensure that progress towards a "smart economy" is not being impeded by uncompetitive barriers in certain sectors or professions.

List of prioritised Competition Authority Recommendations

Recommendations addressed to the Department of Justice and Law Reform (7 recommendations)

Establish an independent Legal Services Commission to oversee the regulation of legal services, to put consumers and the public interest at the heart of regulation.

Allow unlimited direct access to barristers for legal advice

Barristers should be allowed to form partnerships and to promote themselves as a group

The common law right of solicitors to hold on to a client’s file, thus preventing a client from switching to another solicitor, should be removed via legislation.

Legal fees should, in practice as well as in theory, be based (and awarded) on work done, and not by reference to the size of the award received by the client

Examine the possibility of introducing competitive tendering for the provision of legal services

Introduce a new profession of conveyancers — qualified persons in the relevant law to provide conveyancing services in competition with solicitors

Recommendation addressed to the Department of Transport (1 recommendation)

Competition in bus transport should be introduced in the Greater Dublin Area through competitive tendering of (bundles of) routes — by the Dublin Transport Authority (DTA)

Recommendations addressed to the Department of Health and Children (7 recommendations)

Amend the composition of the Dental Council

Introduce a new oral healthcare profession of advanced dental hygienist who can operate independently of dentists

Engage with training providers to establish courses in Clinical Dental Technology (& Advanced Dental Hygienist in due course)

The Dental Council should amend its “Professional Behaviour and Dental Ethics” to remove the ban on discounting by dentists

Explicitly permit corporate dental bodies

Review the number of training places for dentists and other oral healthcare professionals

For pharmacies, replace the 50% retail mark-up with a flat dispensing fee, auction the right to run a pharmacy and abolish the “three year” rule for pharmacists who were not trained in Ireland.

Recommendation addressed to the Department of Social Protection (1 recommendation)

Allow clinical dental technicians (CDTs) to be directly reimbursed under the State dental schemes

Recommendations addressed to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (5 recommendations)

The Retail Planning Guidelines, and Local Authorities, should explicitly recognise the benefits of competition from new retailers to local consumers

Local Authorities should be required to formally survey consumers regarding attitudes and preferences

Local Authorities should be required to include an assessment of competition in health checks of local development plans

Introduce competitive tendering for household waste collection where side-by-side competition is not working well

Local Authorities should not act as both provider and regulator of household waste collection.

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

529 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if he will provide details of the number of civil servants in each Government Department who are currently e-working; his plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if he will provide details of the numbers of civil servants he would hope to have e-working by end 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38195/10]

There are currently six staff teleworking in my Department. There are no plans at present to increase this number because of budgetary constraints and the high demands placed on the Department's limited ICT and related resources in supporting teleworking arrangements.

UN Conventions

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

530 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason behind Ireland's failure to ratify the UN convention of the rights of persons with disabilities, the aim of which is to respect the dignity and autonomy of persons with disabilities and to make existing rights equally effective for all those with disabilities. [37644/10]

It is the Government's intention to ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities as quickly as possible, taking into account the need to ensure that all necessary legislative and administrative requirements under the Convention are being met. As the Deputy will be aware, Ireland does not tend to become party to treaties until it is first in a position to comply with the obligations imposed by the treaty in question, including by amending domestic law as necessary.

The ongoing implementation of our National Disability Strategy in many respects comprehends many of the provisions of the Convention. In addition, the Inter-Departmental Committee on the UNCRPD monitors the remaining legislative and administrative actions required to enable the State to ratify the Convention. The Committee has developed a programme on which work is progressing to address the matters that need to be aligned with the UNCRPD. One of the key requirements in this regard is mental capacity legislation, which is the responsibility of the Department of Justice and Law Reform. As indicated in the Government's Legislation Programme, it is intended that the Mental Capacity Bill will be published in the current Dáil Session. The passage of this Bill will add substantially to the overall progress on implementation of the requirements towards ratification of the Convention.

Security of the Elderly

Michael McGrath

Question:

531 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if his Department administers any scheme whereby a particular device (details supplied) can be made available to elderly persons. [37095/10]

My Department does not administer any scheme whereby this particular device is made available to elderly persons.

The Deputy may be aware that my Department administers the Seniors Alert Scheme. This scheme focuses mainly on the provision of monitored personal alert equipment to elderly persons. Personal alarms allow for direct two-way interaction with the monitoring station in the event of any concerns being raised by the user. They can also monitor many other features such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and other telecare devices. Details of the Seniors Alert Scheme are available on my Department's website (www.pobail.ie ).

Housing Grants

Michael Ring

Question:

532 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs when a full and detailed response will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [37248/10]

Due to the high level of commitments and the large number of applicants on hand, the grant scheme under the Housing (Gaeltacht) Acts 1929-2001 was suspended with effect from 7 April 2009. Applications for new house grants, however, were accepted up to 15 June 2009 on condition that the applicant had full planning permission on or before 7 April 2009.

An incomplete application form for a housing grant under the Housing (Gaeltacht) Acts was received in my Department from the person in question on 3 July 2009, which was too late to be accepted. However, in error the applicant was not informed of the cessation of the grants at the time and the application form was returned seeking further details. The form was resubmitted almost one year later on 28 May 2010 and the applicant was informed of the position regarding the cessation of the grants on 10 June 2010.

While the delay in informing the application of the suspension of the scheme is regretted, the fact that the application form was not received until 3 July 2009 means that it fell outside the deadlines for acceptance of applications (i.e. 7 April 2009, or 15 June 2009 in cases where applicants had full planning permission on or before the 7 April cut-off).

State Property

Frank Fahey

Question:

533 Deputy Frank Fahey asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 327 of 10 November 2009, the outcome of talks with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in connection with his Department’s proposals to Údarás na Gaeltachta to sell lands at a location (details supplied) which are of a strategic importance to the development of a deep water harbour, which is proposed for this location. [37278/10]

As part of ongoing discussions in regard to the strategic importance of the deep water harbour referred to by the Deputy, the present position regarding the acquisition of lands for further development was discussed recently at a meeting attended by officials from my Department and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

Arising from that meeting, it was agreed that the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food should clarify the specific lands required for the further development of the project and my Department will be pleased to facilitate further discussions between the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and Údarás na Gaeltachta.

As the Deputy will be aware, Údarás na Gaeltachta is an independent statutory agency and any decision in regard to the disposal of its assets is a matter for that organisation in the first instance.

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

534 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37297/10]

The information sought by the Deputy is set out in the table below.

The Deputy may wish to note that Waterways Ireland and An Foras Teanga are cross-border implementation bodies with offices in both jurisdictions and, therefore, have contracts with telecommunications providers in Northern Ireland.

For the avoidance of doubt, contract is interpreted as any arrangement between the bodies listed and the service providers. I should also advise the Deputy that the specific details of any financial agreements in place between the agencies and the companies involved is commercially sensitive and a matter between the agencies and the telecommunications providers.

Table: Contracts with telecommunication providers held by Department and agencies funded from its Vote Group

Department/Agency

Number of contracts in place

Telecommunications providers and purpose of contracts

Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs

6

1. Contract with UPC to provide connectivity between the Department’s sites

2. Contract with BT to provide backup connectivity between the Department’s sites

3. Contract with Eircom to provide connectivity to remote sites

4. Contract with Kerry Broadband, a local provider for a remote site

5. Contract with Vodafone for the provision of mobile telephone services under the Department of Finance framework.

6. Contract with Eircom for the provision of fixed line services

Commissioners of Charitable Donations and Bequests

1

Contract with Eircom to provide connectivity to the Department’s network

Dormant Accounts Board

0

N/A

Western Development Commission

2

1. Contract with Vodafone for mobile telephone services

2. Contract with Minute Buyer for fixed line services

Údarás na Gaeltachta

3

1. Contract with Vodafone for mobile telephone services

2. Contract with Eircom for fixed line services

3. Contract with Airspeed for data services

An Coimisinéir Teanga

2

1. Contract with Eircom for fixed line and broadband services

2. Contract with Vodafone for mobile telephone services

Waterways Ireland

5

1. Government service contract with Vodafone for mobile telephone services

2. Government service contract with BT Ireland and Eircom for fixed line services

3. Contract with BT for fixed line services

4. Contract withVodafone NI for mobile telephone services

5. Contract with O2 for mobile telephone services

An Foras Teanga, comprising:

Ulster-Scots Agency

1

Contract with BT for internet services and IT support

Foras na Gaeilge

5

1. Contract with Magnet Networks for the provision of broadband services

2. Contract with Digiweb for the provision of broadband services

3. Contract with Eircom for the provision of broadband and fixed line services

4. Contract with Vodafone for the provision of mobile telephone services

5. Contract with BT for the provision of fixed line services

Family Support Agency

3

1. Contract with Eircom for fixed line and internet services

2. Contract with O2 for mobile telephone services

3. Contract with Vodafone for mobile telephone services

Equality Authority

2

1. Contract with Telcom Ltd for provision of telecommunications for the internal telephone system

2. Contract with Eircom for the provision of fixed lines for the Dublin and Roscrea offices

Equality Tribunal

2

1. Contract with Advanced Telephone Services for the supply and service of the telephone system

2. Contract with Eircom for fixed line services

National Disability Authority

2

1. Contract with Eircom for fixed line services

2. Contract with Vodafone for mobile telephone services

Irish Human Rights Commission

2

1. Contract with Eircom for fixed line and broadband services

2. Contract with Vodafone for mobile telephone services

Leo Varadkar

Question:

535 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with energy providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37312/10]

The information sought by the Deputy is set out in the table below.

The Deputy may wish to note that Waterways Ireland and An Foras Teanga are cross-border implementation bodies with offices in both jurisdictions and, therefore, have contracts with energy providers in Northern Ireland.

For the avoidance of doubt, contract is interpreted as any arrangement between the bodies listed and the service providers. I should also advise the Deputy that the specific details of any financial agreements in place between the agencies and the companies involved is commercially sensitive and a matter between the agencies and the energy providers.

Table: Contracts with energy providers held by the Department and agencies funded from its Vote Group

Department/Agency

Number of contracts in place

Energy providers and purpose of contracts

Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs

4

1. Contract with ESB for electricity supply in the Department’s offices in Mespil Road, Na Forbacha, Gaoth Dobhair and in one of its two offices in Tubbercurry.

2. Contract with Airtricity for electricity supply in one of the Department’s offices in Tubbercurry.

3. Contract with Top Coast Oil to provide heating in the Department’s offices in Tubbercurry.

4. Contract with Chevron to provide heating for the Department’s office in Na Forbacha.

Commissioners of Charitable Donations and Bequests

2

Contracts with ESB and Bord Gáis for electricity and gas supply.

Dormant Accounts Board

0

N/A

Western Development Commission

Contract with Grange Fuels for the supply of heating oil.

It should also be noted that the WDC leases office space from Roscommon County Council who pay all utility bills.

Údarás na Gaeltachta

1

Contract with Energia for electricity supply.

An Coimisinéir Teanga

1

Contract with Airtricity for energy supply. It should also be noted that an agreement also exists between this Office and Údarás na Gaeltachta concerning the energy costs in the shared office building. 80% of the cost of the supply of electricity by Energia is levied on this Office.

Waterways Ireland

4

1. Contract with NI Electricity for electricity supply.

2. Approved Government Supplies Agency contract with Energia for electricity supply.

3. Contract with Airtricity as maintenance contractor for public lighting sites.

4. Contract with ESB for new connections administered by ESB and transferred to Energia.

An Foras Teanga, comprising:

Ulster-Scots Agency

1

Contract with Airtricity for energy supply.

Foras na Gaeilge

4

1. Contract with NIE Energy for the provision of electricity.

2. Contract with Phoenix Natural Gas for the provision of natural gas.

3. Contract with Bord Gáis for the provision of natural gas.

4. Contract with ESB for the provision of electricity.

Family Support Agency

2

Contracts with ESB and Bord Gáis for electricity and gas supply.

Equality Authority

4

1. & 2. Contract with ESB and Roscrea Oil for electricity supply and heating oil in the Roscrea Office.

3. & 4. The Equality Authority contributes to the cost of electricity and gas under contracts placed by the Equality Tribunal with Bord Gáis and Energia for the premises shared with the Equality Tribunal in Dublin.

Equality Tribunal

3

Contracts with Bord Gáis, Energia and ESB to provide electricity and gas.

National Disability Authority

2

Contract with Airtricity for electricity supply and with Bord Gáis for gas supply.

Irish Human Rights Commission

1

Contract with ESB for energy supply.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

536 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of his Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37565/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

537 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the new State-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of his Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37580/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 536 and 537 together.

No new agencies, offices or State-owned companies were established under the aegis of my Department since 2007.

Departmental Funding

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

538 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on the review of the scheme to support national organisations in the community and voluntary sector; and if he plans to continue funding for national organisations and networks working to alleviate poverty, social exclusion and inequality, such as one parent exchange network and voices that matter. [37643/10]

Funding contracts under the scheme referred to by the Deputy are due to expire on 31 December 2010.

As the Deputy may be aware, a review to evaluate the scheme has been under way and all organisations involved in the scheme were consulted as part of the review process.

I expect the review to be concluded very shortly and anticipate that my Department will be in touch with the organisations funded under the current scheme in the near future.

Community Development

Michael Ahern

Question:

539 Deputy Michael Ahern asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will confirm that recent statements in newspapers that moneys are to be moved from Leader companies to county enterprise boards are accurate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37729/10]

The main objectives of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) are to improve the quality of life in rural areas and facilitate the diversification of the rural economy, and the individual measures under the Programme, including indicative allocations, are as follows:

Diversification into non-agricultural activities for farm families €16.66m;

Support for business creation and development — €48.26m;

Encouragement of tourism activities — €45.4m;

Basic services for the economy and rural population — €49.61m;

Village renewal and development — €54.2m;

Conservation and upgrading of the rural heritage — €51.7m;

Training and information on adapted and new skills — €29.45m; and

Implementing co-operation projects — €10.7m.

I am pleased with the progress to date under the RDP, which continues to facilitate access to significant financial resources for rural communities since it started in 2009. This has resulted in the proliferation of innovative and sustainable development projects all over the country, which are providing invaluable support to rural communities in these difficult times and there is no question of funds being diverted away from the RDP.

The RDP currently has registered project activity of €72 million, with almost €30 million at an advanced stage of development. Expenditure to date amounts to almost €47 million, which includes funding for a diverse range of projects from support for micro-enterprise in rural areas to the build and maintenance of community infrastructure and the provision of training in a variety of disciplines for rural dwellers. I am confident that all of the activity funded under the RDP to date is contributing to the creation of the right conditions for the generation of sustainable, long-term job opportunities in rural areas.

My Department and I will be working closely with Minister Batt O'Keeffe and his Department in the coming months to promote increased co-operation between Local Action Groups (LAGs) and County Enterprise Boards in order to ensure that we maximise the impact of all of the funding available and fully support enterprise and job creation in rural areas.

I can assure the Deputy that my Department will continue to work with rural communities through their LAGs to explore all possible funding opportunities under the RDP.

Joe Behan

Question:

540 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will clarify his response to the proposals by the three local community development project groups in Bray for the future management of their projects; if he will meet with representatives of the three groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37739/10]

A revised alternative integration proposal submitted by the three Community Development Projects in Bray is currently under consideration in my Department.

I expect that the projects involved will be advised of the outcome very shortly and I can confirm that officials from my Department are available to meet with them, if necessary.

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

541 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will provide details of the number of civil servants in each Government Department who are currently e-working; his plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if he will provide details of the numbers of civil servants he would hope to have e-working by end 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38192/10]

There are currently no civil servants in my Department availing of e-working arrangements.

I can confirm to the Deputy, however, that my Department will review and examine the options for e-working over the coming period with a view to introducing such arrangements, where possible. A commitment in this regard is included in my Department's Draft Interim Plan, prepared in response to the Public Service Agreement 2010-14 (Croke Park Agreement).

Departmental Contracts

Leo Varadkar

Question:

542 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Defence the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37298/10]

The following table provides details of contracts held by the Department and its agencies with telecommunication providers, including details of these contracts, name of the telecommunication provider and associated financial agreements.

Defence Forces

Type of Service

Service Provider

Type and duration of Contract

Wide Area Network

UPC

3 year framework

Mobile Telephony/Data

Vodafone and O2

15 month framework agreement

Occasional Space segment.

Arqiva

24 month framework agreement

Voice Telephony

Eircom

Currently commencing tendering process under Government Fixed Line Framework

Naval Service Ships connectivity

Stratos

Currently commencing tendering process to new three year contract

Department of Defence

Type of Service

Service Provider

Type and duration of Contract

Wide Area Network

Eircom

Will enter into 12 month contract with UPC when Department decentralises to Newbridge

Mobile Telephony/Data

Vodafone

18 month framework agreement

Voice Telephony

Eircom

Will commence tendering process under Government Fixed Line Framework early 2011

I am satisfied that the above referenced contracts are appropriate and that the financial agreements in place ensure that the Department achieves the best possible value for money.

The Deputy will appreciate that details of the financial agreements with the individual service providers are commercially sensitive.

Leo Varadkar

Question:

543 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Defence the number of contracts held by his Department and its agencies with energy providers; if he will provide details of these contracts including the name of the energy provider and associated financial agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37313/10]

The table beneath indicates the number of contracts held by the Department of Defence and its agencies with energy providers. An estimate of annual costs is also included.

Commodity

Contracting Authority [and relevant locations]

Contractor(s)

Estimated Annual Expenditure [based on consumption in 2009]

Electricity

Defence Forces [in respect of Defence Forces installations nationwide]

(1) ESB Independent Energy Ltd and

c. €5.2 m.

(2) Energia [Separate electricity contracts were placed by the Defence Forces in May 2010 with these two electricity providers.]

Natural Gas

Defence Forces [in respect of Defence Forces installations nationwide]

Energia [A contract was placed by the Defence Forces in May 2010 with this provider.]

€1.6 m.

Liquid Petroleum Gas

Defence Forces [in respect of Defence Forces installations nationwide]

Flogas Ireland Ltd [The Defence Forces have availed of this contract, placed by the Office of Public Works, since Oct. 2006.]

c. €515,000

Heating Oil

Defence Forces [in respect of Defence Forces installations nationwide]

Topaz Energy Ltd [The Defence Forces have availed of this contract, placed by the Office of Public Works, since March 2007.]

c. €1.6 m.

Electricity

Department of Defence [in respect of the Department’s premises in Dublin and Galway and Civil Defence HQ in Roscrea].

Energia [A contract was placed by the Department of Defence in Jan. 2010 with this provider.]

c. €215,000

Heating Oil

Department of Defence [in respect of the Department’s premises in Dublin and Galway and Civil Defence HQ in Roscrea].

Chevron Ireland Ltd

c. €13,800

I am satisfied that the above referenced contracts are appropriate and that the financial agreements in place ensure that my Department achieves the best possible value for money.

Defence Forces Reserve

David Stanton

Question:

544 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Defence the number of Reserve Defence Force personnel that attended paid training in 2009 and to date in 2010 respectively; the number of recruits enlisted in the RDF in 2009 and to date in 2010; the number that were awarded a gratuity in 2009 and to date in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37551/10]

The number of Reserve Defence Force (RDF) personnel who undertook paid training, the number recruited and the number paid a gratuity for 2009 and 2010 are as follows.

RDF personnel

2009

2010

Who undertook paid training

3,633

2,962 (15 Oct)

Recruited

544

249 (1 Sept)

Paid a gratuity

2,425

0*

*Gratuities are normally paid at year end.

The budgetary provision for paid training in 2010 is €2.478 million. This will provide for approximately 31,000 paid training man-days and is sufficient to ensure that all active members of the Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve are afforded the opportunity to avail of paid training this year.

Based on a review and examination of RDF personnel numbers and budgets, limited recruitment to fill vacancies that may arise due to existing members resigning or being discharged in the normal manner was approved in 2009. This recruitment is ongoing subject to the total strength not exceeding the level at 1 January 2009.

The Director of Reserve Forces manages the allocation of recruits across the formations within approved levels. The Director has agreed criteria for the selection of each recruit intake and this ongoing limited recruitment is being closely monitored and will be kept under review in the light of the uptake of paid training and the future budgetary provision available to the Department of Defence.

The terms and conditions for receipt of gratuities provides for a phased increase in gratuities linked to specified training levels with a minimum aggregate of seven days paid training and the completion of specified voluntary training. There is also a requirement for members to have a minimum of one year's service prior to being eligible for receipt of a gratuity.

David Stanton

Question:

545 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Defence the cost of the Reserve Defence Force in 2009 and to date in 2010 under the various subheads; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37552/10]

Subhead D of the Defence Vote includes payments for Reserve Defence Force (RDF), training, gratuities, allowances and also includes grants paid into unit funds. The cost of the RDF as charged to Subhead D for 2009 was €6,651,284. The provision for 2010 is €4,700,000 and expenditure to the end of September 2010 was €2,782,866. The following table shows other costs relating to the RDF as charged to the Defence Vote for each period. The full cost of PDF personnel who provide training and administrative support to the RDF, known as the Cadre, are shown under Subheads B, C and P. The table also shows the rental cost of property used by the RDF as charged to Subhead R.

Subhead

2009

2010 (end Sept)

B — PDF Cadre pay and Employers PRSI

19,615,142

14,543,000*

C — Allowances paid to PDF Cadre

1,463,849

974,207

P — Car Allowance & Car Mileage

423,012

277,213

R — Rent of Property

92,501

119,900

*Estimated cost to end of August 2010, based pro rata on cost for 2009 and adjusted to take account of year on year reduction in the number of PDF Cadre personnel.

As the RDF is an integral part of the Defence Forces a range of costs, other than those outlined above, are spread across other Subheads of the Defence Vote. These costs, which include Petrol, Transport, Rations etc, are not currently disaggregated for the RDF.

David Stanton

Question:

546 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide details of each member of the steering committee that is overseeing the value for money review of the Reserve Defence Force; when this steering committee was established; the number of times this committee has met to date and the duration of each meeting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37553/10]

The VFM review of the Reserve Defence Force, which was selected for review as part of the 2009-2011 phase of the Government's Value for Money and Policy Review initiative, commenced in February 2010. A Steering Committee comprising representatives from the Department of Defence, the Defence Forces and the Department of Finance was formed. In accordance with revised guidelines for the conduct of Value for Money Reviews, an independent chair was appointed to the Steering Committee. Details of the members of the Steering Committee are set out in Table 1 below.

The Steering Committee has met on five occasions since the review commenced and a further meeting was scheduled for today. The approximate duration of the meetings that have taken place up to today are set out in Table 2 below. A Working Group, comprising of both civil and military personnel, was also formed to assist the Steering Committee with the review. The working group has undertaken an extensive programme of work under the direction of the Steering Committee over this period.

The review will examine the progress that was made with the RDF Review Implementation Plan and make recommendations aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the Reserve. As part of the review process, the Steering Committee have established an appropriate consultative mechanism for all key stakeholders including the representative associations who have already provided written submissions and met with the Steering Committee.

It is expected that the findings of the Value For Money review, including the lessons learned from the RDF Review Implementation Plan process, will complement the development of the new White Paper.

Table 1 — Details of members of the Steering Committee

Name

Grade/Rank

Area of responsibility

Ms M Butler

Chairperson (Retired Principal Officer)

Formerly of Department of the Taoiseach

Mr D Quigley

Principal Officer

Department of Finance

Mr R Mooney

Principal Officer

Department of Defence — Planning & Organisation Branch

Ms A Price

Principal Officer

Department of Defence — Defence Forces personnel Policy Branch

G Kerton

Colonel

Defence Force — Director Reserve Forces

C Campbell

Colonel

Defence Force — Director Strategic Planning Office

Table 2 — Details of Steering Committee meetings that have taken place up to date

Date of meeting

Duration (Approx Hours)

22 February 2010

2

25 March 2010

2

27 May 2010

2

7 July 2010

6*

14 September 2010

5**

*Includes visit by Steering Committee members to an RDF annual training camp.

**Includes consultation meetings with PDFORA, RACO and RDFRA.

Departmental Agencies

Leo Varadkar

Question:

547 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Defence the new agencies or offices established under the aegis of his Department since 2007; the annual budget in each case for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37566/10]

Leo Varadkar

Question:

548 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Defence the new State-owned companies that have been established or have come under the aegis of his Department since 2007 and the annual turnover in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37581/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 547 and 548 together.

No new agencies or state-owned enterprises have been established since 2007 under the aegis of the Department.

Overseas Missions

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

549 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Defence the nature of the work being carried out by members of the International Security Assistance Force who are members of the Irish Defence Forces; and when this work will be complete and if he is satisfied that this work is justified given the political state of Afghanistan. [37676/10]

On 20 December 2001, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 1386 under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, authorising the establishment of an International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan. Ireland has participated in the NATO–led UN mandated mission since 5 July 2002, following the Government Decision of 2 July 2002, authorising the provision of seven (7) members of the Permanent Defence Force for service with the force. Since 2002, the Government has reviewed and approved, on an annual basis, the continued participation by seven (7) members of the Permanent Defence Force in ISAF. On 29 June 2010, the Government agreed to continue to provide seven members of the Permanent Defence Force for service with ISAF for a further period from July 2010, subject to ongoing review by the Minister for Defence. I am satisfied that the work carried out by the Defence Forces personnel in ISAF represents an important contribution to this UN mandated mission. The seven Irish personnel currently participating in ISAF, comprising 4 Officers and 3 Non-Commissioned Officers, are located in ISAF Headquarters in Kabul. The Irish personnel work in staff appointments in planning and administrative roles. Irish personnel are rotated every 6 months.

Irish Red Cross Society

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

550 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide the background to the decision to appoint a new chairperson to the Irish Red Cross; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37742/10]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

552 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Defence if the new chairperson of the Irish Red Cross has been asked to examine and review practices within the Irish Red Cross, including the appointment of a permanent Secretary General; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37744/10]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

553 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Defence if the new chairperson of the Irish Red Cross will be asked to submit a new set of governance reform proposals given the issues raised by the media in recent months in relation to the running of the organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37745/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 550, 552 and 553 together.

In accordance with Article 9 of the Irish Red Cross Order, 1939 the Chairman of the Society must be a member of the Central Council. In nominating persons to Central Council, the Government considers that it is highly desirable that the Society should have on its governing body, people with a wide variety of knowledge and expertise, gained through work experience in both the public and private sector and/or volunteer experience with the Society. The Government, in recommending to the President a person to act as Chairman, had to carefully consider and nominate a person who it deemed would make a positive contribution to the affairs of the Society. Such a role assumes even greater importance now given the imminent changes to the Society's organisation.

Taking the above into account, Mr. David J. O'Callaghan was recently appointed, by the President, as the new Chairman of the Irish Red Cross. Mr. O'Callaghan is a former career civil servant with vast experience of public administration at senior management level. He has experience of matters relating to the Irish Red Cross Society from his previous post as Secretary General of the Department of Defence, which he held from 1995 to 2004. I am confident that Mr. O'Callaghan will help expedite the reform process under way in the Irish Red Cross Society. The post of Secretary General has also been advertised recently with a closing date for applications of 28th October 2010.

The current governance proposals arise from a resolution passed in November 2007, by the Council of Delegates of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) which urged all National Societies, as requested by Action 3 of the Strategy for the Movement, to examine and update their Statutes (i.e. the rules of the National Societies) and related legal texts by 2010, in accordance with the "Guidance for National Society Statutes" and relevant International Conference resolutions. This task is being undertaken by Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies around the world. The current proposals have the support of the IFRC.

The formal report of the Working Group established by the Irish Red Cross Society to examine the issue of governance was received in the Department of Defence in January of this year. In order to implement the recommendations made there will be a requirement for significant amendments to the Irish Red Cross Society Order 1939. Representatives of the Society and Officials from the Department of Defence have met to discuss the specific changes required to the 1939 Order and work is ongoing in that regard.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

551 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Defence the investigations, if any, ordered by the Government into the operations of the Irish Red Cross and or the Government's interactions with the agency following revelations in the media covering the subject of alleged financial irregularities, including the way bank accounts were operated; and if not, if any such independent investigation will be instigated in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37743/10]

The Irish Red Cross Society is an independent statute based charitable organisation with full power to manage its own affairs. The Minister for Defence has no function in the administration of the Irish Red Cross Society and does not get involved in the day to day running of its affairs. It is my understanding that the issue of the bank account in question is being dealt with by the Society. It is also my understanding that all funds have been properly accounted for. The Society has put in place new and revised procedures so that such circumstances do not recur.

Questions Nos. 552 and 553 answered with Question No. 550.

Defence Forces Recruitment

David Stanton

Question:

554 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Defence if it is his policy that all persons seeking recruitment for general service must on the day of the physical fitness test, produce a stamped and signed letter from their general practitioner stating that they are fit to undergo fitness test; the regulations if any under which this letter must be provided; if he has taken into account the cost of obtaining this letter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37903/10]

David Stanton

Question:

555 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Defence the number of applications for general service recruitment received in 2010; the number of applicants who were called to attend physical fitness tests; the number who subsequently presented for and undertook these tests and the subsequent number who passed these tests and were sent forward to the next stage of the competition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37904/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 554 and 555 together.

Within the context of consolidating the public finances, the Government is firmly focused on maintaining the operational efficiency of the Permanent Defence Force. Government approval was secured in the context of Budget 2010 for a level of 10,000 all ranks. This reflects the reductions in personnel recommended in the Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes.

Targeted recruitment is being carried out in 2010 in order to maintain the operational capability of the Defence Forces. To this end I approved the recruitment of 40 Recruits to the Naval Service, limited recruitment to the Army and the intake of 30 Cadets from the Cadetship Competition 2010 which closed on the 28th July 2010. The day to day administration of recruitment to the Defence Forces is the responsibility of the Chief of Staff.

I have been informed, by the military authorities that a total of 6,631 applications were received for the current general service recruitment competition. This competition was advertised on 26th August 2010 with the closing date for receipt of applications being 20th September 2010.

The enlistment selection process to both the Eastern and Southern Brigades has commenced. The enlistment selection process to the Western Brigade and the Defence Forces Training Centre is scheduled to follow on when this enlistment has taken place.

The following are the statistics in relation to the current recruitment competition with details in respect of the Southern and Eastern Brigade where the selection process is under way:

Applications Received

Applicants Called for Fitness Testing

Applicants Presented for Fitness Testing

Passed & being called for interview

Southern Brigade

1,780

1,620

991

700

Eastern Brigade

2,549

2,103

1,381

974

Western Brigade

1,311

Defence Forces Training Centre

991

The Military Authorities have advised that for many years it has been Defence Force Policy that all candidates for an Apprenticeship or a Cadetship Competition, must on the day of the physical fitness test, furnish a letter from their general practitioner stating that they are fit to undergo fitness testing. The Defence Forces has a duty of care to all candidates and they advise that such a letter is required to assist them to meet this duty of care to those who attempt the Physical Fitness Test of the selection process.

I am advised that prior to the Moratorium in 2009 applicants for General Service Recruitment did not enter into a formal competition but were placed on a list and called as required for interview, medical examination and physical fitness testing. As a result of the large number of applications received, and to avoid placing over six thousand applicants on a waiting list, the Military Authorities decided to administer the 2010 General Service Recruitment competition along similar lines as the Apprenticeship and Cadetship Competitions.

I intend, with the support of the Chief of Staff and within the resources available, to retain the capacity of the organisation to operate effectively across all roles while contributing to the necessary public service economies.

Departmental Properties

David Stanton

Question:

556 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to any problems with the present building occupied by the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces; his plans to provide more suitable accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37905/10]

The Office of the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces was established under the Ombudsman (Defence Forces) Act 2004. On the 19th September 2005, Ms Paulyn Marrinan-Quinn SC was appointed by the President, upon the recommendation of the Government, as the first Ombudsman for the Defence Forces. Her term of office was extended for a further three years from 19th September 2008. The Office of the Ombudsman is currently located in Hatch Street, Dublin 2. While the provision of accommodation for the Ombudsman is primarily a matter for the OPW, I am anxious to ensure that her office is provided with adequate and appropriate facilities.

It is a matter of record that the Ombudsman has sought alternative accommodation and that the Department has supported her request in this regard to the Office of Public Works. I am advised that the OPW identified a number of potentially suitable premises which were subsequently inspected by officials from the Ombudsman's office. Following on from this process the Ombudsman advised that none of the premises identified by OPW were found to meet the requirements of her office and that she had advised the OPW accordingly.

The Ombudsman was also in contact with my predecessor regarding the need for inadequacies with her existing accommodation to be addressed while the search for suitable new premises continued. The Department wrote to the OPW supporting the Ombudsman's request in this regard and it is understood that the OPW undertook a number of remedial works to the existing premises which sought to address issues identified by the Ombudsman.

Departmental Staff

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

557 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide details of the number of civil servants in each Government Department who are currently e-working; his plans to increase the number of civil servants availing of e-working; if he will provide details of the numbers of civil servants he would hope to have e-working by end 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38193/10]

E-working is not currently available in the Department of Defence. The Department's entire Dublin based Headquarters will move to Newbridge, Co. Kildare under the decentralisation programme in early November 2010. The move entails significant changes to the manner in which the Department conducts its business and interacts with stakeholders. When the move to Newbridge has been completed the Department intends to consider whether E-working is appropriate to our new situation and activities.

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