Vol. 728 No. 5
12 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason his Department has not facilitated a panel of teachers for gaelscoileanna while facilitating panels for all other patronages in view of redundancies in the primary sector and the prohibition on permanent appointments in the primary sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5502/11]
Over half of the Gaelscoileanna are under catholic patronage and the redeployment of surplus teachers from these schools is through the relevant diocesan panels.
My Department had discussions recently with An Foras Pátrúnachta in relation to its request for a separate panel for Gaelscoileanna under its patronage. These discussions are on-going and a key issue for my Department is how best to facilitate this request in a manner that avoids the inherent inefficiencies of a separate panel for a relatively small number of schools. Given our budgetary situation we need to have sufficient flexibility in the redeployment arrangements to ensure that surplus teachers in all schools regardless of patronage type can be readily redeployed to vacancies wherever they exist.
The existing arrangements for the redeployment of surplus teachers operate between schools of the same patronage and are not certain to bring about the redeloyment of all surplus teachers. To address the current limitations my Department will be seeking in the coming period to conclude discussions with the relevant education partners, including An Foras Pátrúnachta, on changes necessary to achieve our objective of absorbing all surplus teachers into vacancies that exist in other schools. These discussions will also deal with the request for a separate redeployment panel for Gaelscoileanna under the patronage of An Foras Pátrúnachta.
13 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will have any role in the new National Employment and Entitlements Service replacing FÁS; if so, the nature of that role; the timeline for setting up the new agency; and when details of the new agency will be provided. [5543/11]
Under the Employment Programmes and Services and Skills Training (Transfer of Departmental Administration and Ministerial Functions) Order which came into force on 1 May 2010, my Department assumed responsibility from the then Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation for FÁS as an Agency and for its funding and activities relating to training and skills.
Following the commencement on 1 January 2011 of the relevant sections of the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2010, the Department of Social Protection assumed the funding and overall responsibility for FÁS employment services and employment programmes. Responsibility for training and skills provided by FÁS is part of my Department's functions.
The Programme for Government states that the National Employment and Entitlements Service will integrate all employment and benefit support services into a single delivery unit managed by the Department of Social Protection. It also states that this new service will provide a "one stop shop" for people searching for employment, seeking advice about their training options or establishing their benefit options.
The timeline for setting up the National Employment and Entitlements Service and the details relating to it are matters for the Minister for Social Protection. I intend to fully support and co-operate with the establishment of this service.
14 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Skills when will he negotiate the transfer of school infrastructure currently owned by the 18 religious orders cited in the Ryan Report to the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5507/11]
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to negotiate the transfer of school infrastructure currently owned by 18 religious orders cited in Ryan Report, at no extra cost, to the State.
Following publication of the Ryan Report in May 2009, the then Government and this House called on the Congregations to commit to making further substantial contributions by way of reparation. In response the Congregations offered additional contributions, which included various property transfer proposals to different State bodies and voluntary organisations. My Department, as lead Department handling these matters, has been liaising with the Congregations and the various State bodies to determine the potential use of the various property offers and their acceptability to the State. The potential for the Congregations to augment their offers, so as to realise a 50:50 sharing of the costs of the response to residential institutional abuse, has also been pursued with the Congregations.
The cost of the response to residential institutional abuse is estimated at €1.36 billion. The contribution of the 18 congregations under the 2002 Indemnity Agreement amounted to €128 million. They have since committed to some €110 million to a Statutory Fund for former residents of which €20.6m has been received. They have also offered additional properties which they value at €235.5m. Even if all of these properties were to be acceptable to the State and their values confirmed there would be a shortfall of over €200 million below the 50:50 target.
Against this background the formal transfer, without cost to the State, of schools infrastructure could help achieve the 50:50 target. Apart from the potential for achieving diversity within the education system over time, which I am beginning to address separately through a Forum on Patronage and Pluralism at primary level, the schools transferred could continue to be used by the religious congregations and or their successor trusts with the same patronage arrangements as prevail today. The difference would be that the Irish taxpayer, through the State, would be the owners of that educational infrastructure.
15 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Education and Skills if the book grant will be made available to low income families in 2011; if the grant will be forwarded to schools in time for distribution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5501/11]
I wish to inform the Deputy that my Department intends to issue funding to primary schools in April and post-primary schools in June to enable them to provide assistance for school books. Details of the funding were notified to schools by circulars 0023/2011 (primary level) and 0024/2011 (post-primary level), which are available on my Department's website.
In these circulars, schools were urged to use this funding to establish book rental schemes, as these are the most effective means of lowering costs for all students.
Funding will be allocated on the following basis:
€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.
This funding arrangement affords schools the autonomy to utilise funding in the most effective way based on their particular knowledge of their student needs. The previous system required schools to apply each year to my Department for a book grant, which resulted in a significant administrative burden, both for schools and my Department.
16 Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of students in higher education during the academic year 1996/97 and in the current academic year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5545/11]
In 1996/97, there were 100,204 full time students enrolled in higher education institutions in Ireland as well as 22,795 part time students. Provisional enrolment figures for 2010/11 show that there are currently 159,056 full time students enrolled in our institutions and 26,645 part time students. This includes both undergraduate and postgraduate students. This is a 59% increase in the number of full time students being accommodated within the system and a 17% increase in part time students.
This expansion in participation has had a hugely positive impact on the skills level of Ireland's workforce which has played a key part in attracting foreign direct investment into the Irish economy as well as raising the performance of Ireland's indigenous companies. The latest OECD Education at a Glance (2010) shows that the tertiary education attainment rates in Ireland's workforce (25-64 year olds) are now significantly above both OECD and EU19 averages.
In terms of Ireland's economic renewal, a vibrant, sustainable and widely accessible higher education system remains of central importance. We need to ensure that our higher education institutions continue to accommodate the needs of full time entrants to higher education, while also developing more flexible routes into higher education so that adults in the workforce can better engage with educational opportunities at this level. The importance of this aspect of our system's development is emphasised in the National Strategy for Higher Education to 2030 and will be a focus of future policy development.
17 Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to overhaul the system for means testing student grants; and if his plans will include the means testing of assets. [5541/11]
The Government is committed to ensuring that everyone should have an equal chance of realising their full potential at all levels of education, from primary through to third level. The student grant schemes have a fundamental role to play in ensuring that this objective is achieved in promoting equity of access to higher education. In this context, I am committed to keeping the student grants schemes, including the question of the means testing of assets, under review to ensure that the funding available is targeted equitably and towards those most in need of assistance.
I am glad to be able to say that students can look forward to improvements to the student grants scheme for the 2011/12 academic year when it is intended to introduce a single unified scheme to replace the existing four schemes. This development will make it easier for students when it comes to applying for a grant. In addition, the online grants application facility and payment to students by way of electronic funds transfer will be rolled out further this year.
I am also moving ahead with plans to introduce a single grant awarding authority from 2012 and, subsequently, the establishment of an independent appeals board. These developments, which are enabled by the provisions of the Student Support Act, will provide for fundamental reform of the student grants administration process at the earliest possible date.
The introduction of further reforms, including improvements to the way in which means testing is carried out, will be facilitated by consolidation of the administration function.
18 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills the changes he is proposing regarding the staffing of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5537/11]
The Public Service (Croke Park) Agreement 2010-2014 sets out how the Civil Service needs to be re-organised in the context of reduced resources and numbers in order to provide a more effective and focused service. My Department and its agencies provide action plans under the Agreement to the Implementation Body which are updated on a quarterly basis as progress is made on issues such as redeployment, better business processes and greater flexibility.
My Department and its agencies will be working to ensure that reductions to staffing numbers as set out in the Employment Control Framework (ECF) are met. It is acknowledged that achieving the reductions required under the ECF will be challenging and will require the civil service to be more efficient and effective, achieving greater productivity and demonstrating greater flexibility. In terms of specific human resource (HR) actions Personnel will, inter alia, fully implement new sick leave arrangements and are taking a more proactive approach in dealing with different aspects of underperformance.
The Deputy will also be aware that at a Government meeting held on the 15th March, 2011, it was decided to reduce the number of staff permitted in Minister's Private Offices from 10 to 8 and Minister of State's Private Offices from 7 to 5. The number of staff permitted in Minister's Constituency Offices has been reduced from 6 to 4 and Ministers of State's Constituency Offices from 5 to 3. The staffing of these offices at my Department will be in accordance with these reduced parameters.
19 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Education and Skills with regard to the review of small rural schools which is currently taking place, the number of submissions that have been received to date; when the review is expected to conclude; if he foresees any school closures as a result; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5511/11]
A review is underway at present in order to establish the value for money being achieved from state funding of small primary schools. This value for money review is part of the normal review processes undertaken by Departments on an annual basis on selected areas of expenditure.
The closing date for receipt of submissions to the value for money review of small primary schools was Friday last, 18th March 2011. A large response was received and the submissions are currently being sorted and acknowledged. I can confirm that almost 1,000 submissions have been received.
I do not have a pre-determined view on the outcome of the review. Educational quality for the pupils must be one of the main criteria in any consideration of primary school size and organisation, taking into account both the needs of local communities and wider social and cultural factors.
The review should be completed by the end of this year and I plan to consider the review's outcomes when they are finalised. My consideration will take place in the context of the resources available to the Department and the other factors I have outlined.
20 Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will examine and reverse Circular 0019/2011 in view of his programme for Government commitment to devolve more responsibility to school principals and boards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5509/11]
The process of allocating teaching resources to schools for 2011/2012 and the arrangements for filling vacant or new teaching posts takes place in the context of the Programme for National Recovery, the EU/IMF Programme of Support for Ireland and the Public Service Agreement 2010/2014.
It is necessary for my Department to exercise additional control and reporting measures this year to ensure that the numbers of teachers employed in schools is consistent with the Programme for National Recovery and the EU/IMF Programme of Support for Ireland.
It is necessary, therefore, for my Department to ensure this year that all permanent and fixed term positions are in the first instance made available to those permanent and CID holding teachers that are surplus and are to be redeployed.
This means that until further notice no school can be given authority to commence recruitment until my Department is in a position to assess the number of these teachers, if any, that remain to be redeployed.
It is the intention of the Department to restore recruitment from fixed-term teachers on the main panels, supplementary panels or public advertisement at the earliest possible opportunity, after all the surplus permanent teachers have been redeployed.
I am aware that many newly qualified teachers are concerned by the lack of job prospects within the education sector. Our education system is experiencing an increase in population numbers and this will require an increase in staffing levels just to meet demand.
My Department will have to consider whether further practical measures can be focused to address the real difficulties in this area for newly qualified teachers.
21 Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Education and Skills the spending on primary school capital projects provided for in budget for 1997 and in budget for 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5546/11]
For the 2011 capital provision the primary and post primary sectors are combined under a single subhead and the total allocation amounts to €383m of which approximately €222m is designated for the primary sector. The corresponding combined allocation in 1997 as published in the Revised Estimates for Public Services amounted to €73.723m, of which €35.127m related to the primary sector.
22 Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of teachers, average class size and pupil-teacher ratio in primary schools in the school years 1996-1997 and the latest available figures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5538/11]
The Statistics Section of my Department's website contains extensive information relating to pupil teacher ratio (PTR) and class sizes in primary schools.
The figures for 1996/97 show that there were 21,035 teaching posts, the average class size was 26.6 and the teacher pupil ratio was an average of 1 teacher for every 22.3 pupils at primary level.
The most recently published figures relate to the 2009/10 school year and show there were 31,709 teaching posts, the average class size was 24.1 and the pupil teacher ratio was an average of 1 teacher for every 16 pupils at primary level.
Statistical information in respect of the 2010/11 school year is due for publication in September 2011.
23 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of primary schools and pupils not under religious patronage in the 1996/97 school year and in the current school year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5542/11]
The Department's records indicate that in the 1996/97 school year there were 43 primary schools that were not under religious patronage. The combined enrolment for these schools in 1996/1997 was circa 5,340 pupils. In the 2009/10 school year there were 130 primary schools that were not under religious patronage. The combined enrolment for these schools in 2009/2010 was circa 22,734 pupils. The finalised data in respect of the current school year is not yet available.
24 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to invest in a targeted early childhood education programme for disadvantaged children as per the programme for Government; the date on which he intends to roll out these plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5510/11]
The commitment in the Programme for Government is that 'As resources allow, this Government will invest in a targeted early childhood education programme for disadvantaged children, building on existing targeted pre-school supports for families most in need of assistance such as the young Ballymun project.'
There are existing wholly State-funded intervention programmes for young children at risk of educational disadvantage. The Early Start programme aims to provide an educational programme for children aged 3-4 which would enhance their overall development and offset the effects of social disadvantage. The specific objectives of the programme are:
To enhance the children's language, cognitive and social/emotional development by engaging them in structured play activities which are characterised by high quality adult/child interaction.
To assess the strengths and needs of each child in relation to language, cognition and social/emotional development and to plan and deliver a programme of learning to meet the identified needs in these key areas of learning.
To devise strategies which actively engage parents in the education of their children.
The Early Start programme has been in existence since the mid 1990s and this programme along with the Rutland Street pre-school programme were, until recently, the only wholly State funded educational programmes for pre-school children. In recent years, the State along with Atlantic Philanthropies have funded Prevention and Early Intervention Programmes in areas of disadvantage. These include YoungBallymun, Tallaght's Childhood Development Initiative and the Preparing for Life Programme in Darndale. The evidence accruing from these intervention programmes as to what works most effectively for young children at risk of educational disadvantage will inform further targeted interventions.
We will be implementing this commitment in the Programme for Government over our term of office in Government.
25 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Education and Skills when the review of the Hunt Report on Higher Education will be undertaken; the person who will lead this review; the timescale for the review and the terms of reference; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5503/11]
It is not proposed to appoint an individual to conduct a review of the Hunt report. The process to develop the proposals for a new higher education strategy under the Chairmanship of Colin Hunt was a lengthy one and provided for a comprehensive examination of the challenges facing the sector with a wide range of inputs from different stakeholders as well as national and international expertise. I have considered the proposals and recommendations in the report. While I would not necessarily be bound by the specifics of every recommendation in the report, and in particular the specific issue of future financing will be the subject of further consideration as set out in the Programme for Government, I believe that, taken in the round, it represents the broad basis on which higher education policy should be developed over the coming decades. An Implementation Oversight Group is already in place and is developing a detailed implementation plan that identifies timelines and lead responsibility for different actions. I am satisfied with the initial implementation oversight arrangements that have been put in train and will be considering the draft implementation plan in more detail with my officials over the coming weeks.
26 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to continue with the cap on special needs assistants for September 2011 leaving new entrants and newly diagnosed children with special needs without SNA support in mainstream classrooms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5499/11]
The Programme for Government clearly states that education will be a priority for this Government and that we will endeavour to protect and enhance the educational experience of children, young people and students. To that end, we will endeavour to protect frontline services in education.
However, the fiscal position is extremely difficult. This country is effectively in receivership. It is necessary to ensure that educational services are delivered within the resources available. I intend to prioritise and support special educational services. However, I cannot re-visit the previous Government's decision to place a cap on the number of posts available under the Special Needs Assistant (SNA) scheme. This number is 10,575 whole time equivalent (WTE) posts. This is a significant number of posts and unlike other areas of the public sector vacancies are being filled up to this number. It also represents continual increases in the number of SNAs over recent years.
It is considered that with equitable and careful management and distribution of these resources that there should be sufficient posts to provide access to SNA support for all children who require such care support to attend school, in accordance with Departmental criteria.
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.
The NCSE has issued a circular to all schools advising of the allocation process for the 2011/2012 school year. A key feature of the amended scheme will be to provide for an annual allocation of Special Needs Assistant support to eligible schools.
My Department and I will be glad to consider any suggestions from school management or parent representative organisations as to how the allocation of SNA resources can best be managed within the context of the overall limit on SNA numbers established. In this regard I am committed to making whatever improvements are possible to the resource allocation system.
We all have to understand the legacy of economic mismanagement which the last Government gave to this country.
27 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will grant departmental recognition to a school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5513/11]
The report from the Commission on School Accommodation on the review of procedures for the establishment of new primary schools is about to be published. Upon publication of the report it will be necessary to consider the policy matters and necessary arrangements and revised procedures that will need to be put in place. Based on demographic information my Department, in consultation with school patrons, has made decisions on where new primary schools are required to commence operation in September 2011 to cater for significantly increased enrolments. These areas are Blanchardstown West, Dublin 15, Mulhuddart, Dublin 15 and Ashbourne, Co. Meath.
My Department will not be granting recognition for the new school referred to by the Deputy as there is no demographic need in the town concerned.
However, my Department will be proceeding with the commitment in the Programme for Government to develop a time-limited Forum on Patronage and pluralism in the Primary Sector. The Forum will seek to produce a blueprint for an education system where different patronage models, like Gaelscoileanna, can be delivered in areas where parental/community demand is greatest.
28 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Skills when the forum on patronage and pluralism in the primary sector, as per the programme for Government, will be undertaken; when the terms of reference will be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5504/11]
The Forum on Patronage and Pluralism is a key education objective of the Programme for Government which will provide a platform for what I believe is an essential debate in the education agenda.
I am currently considering Terms of Reference for the Forum together with the necessary organisational arrangement to make it happen as quickly as possible. It is my intention to make an announcement in this regard very shortly.
The Forum will deal with a very complex topic and it will need to be mindful of issues such as the expressed willingness of the Catholic Church to consider divesting patronage of some of its primary schools; parental demand for increased availability of different types of schools; and the financial constraints imposed by the current economic climate.
It is my intention that the Forum will take a multi-dimensional approach involving consultations with the key education stakeholders, including parents.
29 Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of special needs assistants working in schools here in the school year 1996 — 1997 and the current school year; and his plans regarding these posts for the coming year. [5540/11]
In 1996 there were 250 Special Needs Assistants (SNA) employed in Primary and Special Schools and in 1997 there were 270 SNAs employed in Primary and Special Schools. At end December 2010 there were 10,543 SNAs in place.
The Programme for Government clearly states that education will be a priority for this Government and that we will endeavour to protect and enhance the educational experience of children, young people and students. To that end, we will endeavour to protect frontline services in education.
However, the fiscal position is extremely difficult. This country is effectively in receivership. It is necessary to ensure that educational services are delivered within the resources available. I intend to prioritise and support special educational services. However, I cannot re-visit the previous Government's decision to place a cap on the number of posts available under the Special Needs Assistant (SNA) scheme. This number is 10,575 whole time equivalent (WTE) posts. This is a significant number of posts and unlike other areas of the public sector vacancies are being filled up to this number. It also represents continual increases in the number of SNAs over recent years.
It is considered that with equitable and careful management and distribution of these resources that there should be sufficient posts to provide access to SNA support for all children who require such care support to attend school, in accordance with Departmental criteria.
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.
The NCSE has issued a circular to all schools advising of the allocation process for the 2011/2012 school year. A key feature of the amended scheme will be to provide for an annual allocation of Special Needs Assistant support to eligible schools.
My Department and I will be glad to consider any suggestions from school management or parent representative organisations as to how the allocation of SNA resources can best be managed within the context of the overall limit on SNA numbers established. In this regard I am committed to making whatever improvements are possible to the resource allocation system.
We all have to understand the legacy of economic mismanagement which the last Government gave to this country.
30 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills when the cut to the number of educational psychologists in National Educational Psychological Service will be reversed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5505/11]
The implementation of the various commitments in the Programme for Government will be addressed by Government over its period in office.
31 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will examine and reverse circular 0017/2011 with regard to the withdrawal of resource teacher for Traveller posts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5500/11]
The Programme for Government sets out that education will be a priority for this Government and that we will endeavour to protect and enhance the educational experience of children, young people and students. To that end, we are committing — during the tenure of this Government — to improving the co-ordination and integration of the delivery of services to the Traveller community across all Government departments, using available resources more effectively to deliver on principles of social inclusion, particularly in the area of Traveller education through the DEIS programme.
I do not intend to revisit the decision of the previous Government to withdraw resource teacher for traveller posts. The Deputy will understand that Ireland is effectively now in economic receivership because of the disastrous legacy of the last Fianna Fáil/Green Party Government. The requirements to make expenditure savings and to ensure that staffing numbers remain within the Public Service Employment Control Framework prevent me from re-visiting this decision.
The decision, however, is broadly in keeping with the recommendation in the Report and Recommendations for a Traveller Education Strategy that an integrated, collaborative and in-class learning support system should be adopted for all children, including Travellers, with an identified educational need. The strategy aims to enhance access, attendance, participation and engagement for Travellers and is underpinned by the principles of inclusion and mainstreaming with an emphasis on equality and diversity.
Traveller pupils who are eligible for learning support teaching will, from the next school year, receive this tuition through the existing learning support provision in schools. All schools should select students for learning support on the basis of priority of need.
I do recognise that withdrawing all RTT posts will place a strain on existing learning support services in schools. In recognition of this, limited alleviation measures are being provided to assist some schools that have high concentrations of Traveller pupils and who were previously supported by Resource Teachers for Travellers.
I want to advise the Deputy that, in respect of the DEIS scheme, Traveller pupils have been included in the valid enrolment for the purpose of allocating additional staffing under DEIS from the 2011/12 school year. The schools involved have already received their staffing allocations for next year.
32 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding negotiations over ownership of Rockall and the steps being taken by him to secure Ireland’s territorial claim. [5580/11]
Rockall is a small uninhabitable rock, 25 x 30 metres wide, located approximately 160 nautical miles west of the Scottish islands of St. Kilda and 230 nautical miles to the north-west of Donegal. It marks a point at which the Rockall Bank, part of the very large Hatton-Rockall area of continental shelf extending under the north-east Atlantic Ocean, protrudes 21 metres above sea level. During the 1960s and 1970s the issue of Rockall was a source of legal and political controversy in both Ireland and the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom claims sovereignty over Rockall and has sought to formally annex it under its 1972 Island of Rockall Act. While Ireland has not recognised British sovereignty over Rockall, it has never sought to claim sovereignty for itself. The consistent position of successive Irish Governments has been that Rockall and similar rocks and skerries have no significance for establishing legal claims to mineral rights in the adjacent seabed and to fishing rights in the surrounding seas.
During the course of the Third United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea, which took place from 1973 to 1982, Ireland worked hard to achieve agreement on this principle. The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which was adopted at the conclusion of the Conference on 10 December 1982, provides at Article 121, paragraph 3 that: "Rocks which cannot sustain human habitation or economic life of their own shall have no exclusive economic zone or continental shelf." Rockall falls into precisely this category.
In 1988, Ireland and the UK reached agreement on the delimitation of areas of the continental shelf between the two countries, stretching out up to 500 nautical miles from their respective coastlines. This included the division of the Hatton-Rockall area of continental shelf on which Rockall is situated, although under the terms of the Law of the Sea Convention the location of Rockall was irrelevant to the determination of the boundary. According to that determination, Rockall is situated to the north of the boundary agreed with the UK in 1988 and lies outside the zone claimed by Ireland.
However, the claims to the Hatton-Rockall shelf agreed between Ireland and the UK are not accepted by Iceland or Denmark (on behalf of the Faroe Islands), which make their own claims. The four countries have met regularly since 2001 in an effort to resolve the overlapping claims issue, but to date have been unable to reach agreement.
As with any claim to continental shelf lying beyond 200 nautical miles from shore, the UN Convention requires that Ireland and the UK submit their claims for examination to the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf. The 10-year deadline for the making of submissions to the UN Commission expired for Ireland in May 2009. The Government therefore submitted the national claim for this area at the end of March 2009, as did the UK. The Faroe Islands made its submission at the end of last year. Iceland has not yet made a submission.
The Commission's rules of procedure prevent consideration by the Commission of a submission relating to a disputed area without the consent of all the states concerned. Accordingly the purpose of making submissions in accordance with the deadline, as Ireland, the UK and the Faroes have all now done, is to stop the clock on the deadline and preserve each country's legal position. In the meantime the four states will continue to meet at regular intervals and the Government continues to work for the creation of conditions that will permit consideration of Ireland's submission by the Commission as soon as possible.
The State's continental shelf has already been successfully extended beyond 200 nautical miles in the area to the west of the Porcupine Bank where, following consideration by the UN Commission, 39,000 square kilometres of additional seabed has recently been designated under the 1968 Continental Shelf Act. Together with France, Spain and the UK, we have also made a successful submission to the Commission in relation to a large area of seabed in the Celtic Sea and Bay of Biscay and the four countries have recently begun discussions on the division of this area.
33 Deputy David Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding the Ivory Coast following recent elections and in particular the situation in the northern part of that country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5601/11]
The situation in Cote d'Ivoire is extremely serious and of growing concern to the Irish Government and our EU partners. The first round of Presidential elections was held in Cote d'Ivoire on 31 October 2010, after having been initially scheduled for 2005. With no outright winner, a second round was held on 28 November, in which President Laurent Gbagbo faced opposition leader Alassane Ouattara. On 2 December the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) released results of the election, declaring Mr Ouattara the winner, with the UN certifying the result. However, the President of the Constitutional Council declared that the results were null and void and, citing irregularities in Mr. Ouattara's northern base, cancelled returns from four regions. The Constitutional Council then declared President Gbagbo the winner. The UN, European Union, African Union (AU), Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United States have all formally recognised Ouattara as the duly elected President. However, after the Constitutional Council announcement, Gbagbo was sworn in as President. ECOWAS immediately suspended Cote d'Ivoire from the group and the AU suspended Côte d'Ivoire from all AU activities. On 18 December, Gbagbo ordered all UN peacekeepers to leave the country. The UN refused to leave, and the Security Council extended the mandate of the UN Mission in Côte d'Ivoire until June 30, 2011.
On 22 December the EU agreed to impose travel restrictions and an asset freeze on a number of persons in Cote d'Ivoire who were identified as obstructing the process of peace and national reconciliation, and in particular those jeopardising the proper outcome of the electoral process. Since then the list has been expanded and is constantly monitored.
African mediation teams from ECOWAS and the AU have been in negotiations with President Gbagbo but without significant progress so far. Indeed, in spite of all international efforts to resolve the situation, it is deteriorating and violence is increasing. Pro-Ouatarra "Forces Nouvelles" militia are advancing southwards from the northern region which they have controlled since the 2005 ceasefire. Meanwhile pro-Gbagbo militia are now seeking to enrol in the regular army. The UN estimates that the death toll now stands at 440.
Relative to the southern city of Abidjan and western parts of Cote d'Ivoire where clashes between regular and irregular forces have been concentrated, northern Cote D'Ivoire appears to be more stable. Although low level clashes have occurred along the former "zone of confidence", a line patrolled by UN and French forces that divided northern and southern parts of Cote d'Ivoire until 2007, it would appear that clashes have been restricted to areas where opposing forces are deployed in close proximity to each other. This situation is reflected in the lower number of refugees moving from northern parts of Cote D'Ivoire to neighbouring countries than is the case in the south. Figures indicate that approximately 7,000 people have moved to Mali, Ghana and Burkina Faso, whilst the number of refugees moving into Liberia is reported to be in excess of 90,000.
In Liberia, the Government is working closely with UN agencies and NGO partners as Liberia's capacity to respond to the influx of refugees is limited. Irish Aid has provided €400,000 to UNHCR and €300,000 to UNICEF to assist with the refugee situation in Liberia. There are also an estimated 400,000 internally displaced persons in Cote d'Ivoire and the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate rapidly with increasingly limited access for the local population to essential services and rapidly rising prices for food and other basic necessities. The situation in Cote d'Ivoire remains a priority for the EU and indeed was discussed again at the Foreign Affairs Council on Monday 21 March. Ireland and the EU support African leadership on this issue, and will do all that we can to contribute to a peaceful resolution to the situation, whereby the will of the people as expressed in the election is respected, without further injuries or loss of life.
34 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Finance if he will arrange a new national press, TV and national radio campaign to raise awareness of the freefone number for reporting of the sale and importation of illegal tobacco and cigarettes. [5570/11]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners, who are responsible for the collection of tobacco products tax, that Revenue employs a multi-faceted strategy for tackling the illicit trade in cigarettes and other tobacco products. It includes ongoing analysis of the nature and extent of the problem, developing and sharing intelligence on a national, EU and international basis, ongoing review of operational policies, development of analytics and deployment of detection technologies, optimum deployment of resources at point of importation and inland to intercept the contraband product and to prosecute those involved. Revenue also regularly draws the attention of the public to the detrimental effects of the illicit tobacco trade. In July 2010, to coincide with the introduction of the confidential freephone number, advertisements highlighting the impact of cigarette smuggling, together with the freephone number (Freephone 1800 295 295), were placed in the national press and relevant trade publications. A journalists' press briefing was also held to publicise the freephone number and to raise awareness of Revenue's activities in tackling this illicit trade.
The Revenue Commissioners have received 165 calls via the confidential tobacco freephone since its launch in July 2010 to date. Revenue continues to promote the confidential free phone through its website and includes the phone number in all press releases relating to cigarette and tobacco seizures and in all radio and television interviews concerning the illicit tobacco trade. In addition, Revenue has enlisted the assistance of the main tobacco manufacturers who have all agreed to promote the free phone on their websites and in trade publications.
Revenue will be reviewing its overall approach to heightening public awareness of the increased health risks from the consumption of tobacco products of non-verifiable origin. However it is not clear at this stage that advertising of the type envisioned in the question, which is costly, represents the best approach or the best value.
Revenue will continue to encourage the public to assist in the fight against the illicit tobacco trade by providing information to Revenue, by means of the confidential freephone or otherwise, on the smuggling and sale of untaxed tobacco products. Significant seizures, prosecutions and enforcement initiatives in this area will also be highlighted in the coming year at local and national level.
35 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Finance when he intends to reform the universal social charge; and if he intends to introduce a tapered approach above the €4,000 threshold; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5599/11]
There is a commitment in the new Programme for Government to carry out a review of the Universal Social Charge (USC). I expect the terms of reference to be finalised shortly and I would anticipate that the review will be completed in time for Budget 2012.
36 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Finance when section 13 of the Finance Act 2011 which makes provision for relief for energy efficient works will be enacted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5645/11]
Section 13 of the Finance Act 2011 provides for income tax relief at the standard rate for expenditure incurred by individuals on a range of works that are carried out to improve the energy efficiency of residential premises situated in the State. Relief will be available for qualifying expenditure of up to a maximum of €10,000 for single individuals, or up to a maximum of €15,000 per qualifying property. The scheme will be operated primarily by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, in conjunction with the Revenue Commissioners. The maximum amount of expenditure that will qualify for relief in any one tax year is €150 million. Relief will be given by way of repayment in the tax year following that in which the work was completed and the expenditure incurred.
Due to the truncated timetable for Finance Bill 2011, it was not possible to consider a number of potential legislative amendments to the scheme. These will be addressed in the next Finance Bill. In addition, the previous Minister made a commitment to publish an Ex-Ante Economic Impact Assessment of the scheme before commencing it via Ministerial order. My officials are currently working on this assessment and it will be published as soon as it has been completed.
Pending the completion of the assessment and the introduction of the legislative changes required in the next Finance Bill, it is not possible to indicate when a Commencement Order bringing section 13 of the Finance Act 2011 into effect will be signed.
37 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills when he plans to begin a review of third level funding as promised in the programme for government; will the review examine the reintroduction of third level fees; will a graduate tax be considered in that review and will he rule out the introduction of a graduate tax or increased third level fees during the lifetime of this Government. [5641/11]
The Programme for Government provides a commitment to undertake a full review of third level funding with a view to introducing a funding system that will provide third level institutions with reliable funding but does not impact on access for students.
This review will be advanced as part of the wider implementation plan for the higher education strategy and links to recommendations made in the Hunt report in relation to the role of the HEA in advising on the sustainability of the system, developing the higher education funding model and supporting institutions in widening their funding base. I will be considering the issues involved including an increased contribution by students as referred to by the Deputy as part of my wider consideration of the implementation plan.
38 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will confirm the decision of the former Minister to review the proposed amalgamation of Kerry Education Service and Limerick City and County Kerry Vocational Education Committee as a stand-alone entity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5586/11]
I am anxious to ensure that progress continues to be made in the work of bringing about a reduction in the number of VECs.
To that end I will be considering the matter raised by the Deputy in the coming period, in tandem with other issues that have been the subject of a recently concluded consultation process with the relevant stakeholders. Specifically, these issues are: to determine the HQ locations where there are mergers, the titles of the new entities and the changes needed in relation to the composition of each committee.
My Department is presently engaging in consultations with the IVEA on this matter and I am eager to ensure that the proposed rationalisation of VECs proceeds in a sensible manner, and addresses the aforementioned issues in a satisfactory and comprehensive way.
39 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application for a special needs assistant in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [5587/11]
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) for allocating resource teachers and Special Needs Assistants to schools to support children with special 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.
40 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will reverse the decision to increase the pupil-teacher ratio for gaelscoileanna from September 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5591/11]
The standardisation of the staffing schedule for Gaelscoileanna so that it is the same as that which applies to primary schools generally is one of a number of measures in Budget 2011 to control and reduce teacher numbers. These changes are effective from September 2011. Given our budgetary situation it is not possible to reverse these changes.
This change will result in a reduction of the order of 50 posts in Gaelscoileanna. There are currently a total of over 1,500 teaching posts in these schools.
The actual impact at individual school level is determined as part of the allocation process for 2011/12 school year and schools are being notified in the normal manner.
This Government will endeavour to protect front line education services as best as possible. However, this must be done within the context of bringing our overall public expenditure back into line with what we can afford as a country. All areas of Government, including Gaelscoileanna, will have to manage on a reduced level of resources. The challenge will be to ensure that the resources that are being provided are used to maximum effect.
41 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a school (details supplied) in County Kerry will qualify for funding under the summer works scheme. [5594/11]
I can confirm that the school referred to by the Deputy has submitted an application for the works as specified under the 2011 Summer Works Scheme.
Applications for funding under the scheme are currently being processed in my Department, as outlined in the Circular governing the operation of the Scheme, and the school authority will be notified of the decision on the application shortly.
42 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the measures he plans to take in relation to responding to high illiteracy rates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5597/11]
The new Programme for Government contains commitments in relation to the improvement of literacy levels in two key areas.
As part of its Labour Market Policy, the Government will make literacy and basic workplace skills a national priority, with literacy training incorporated into a wider variety of further education and training programmes. The Government will also address the widespread and persistent problem of adult literacy through the integration of literacy in vocational training and through community education under its lifelong learning policy.
At school level and in early education, the Programme for Government contains a commitment to the development and implementation of a national literacy strategy. This Government believes that no child should leave an Irish school unable to read and write.
My Department is currently undertaking a public consultation process on a draft national strategy on literacy and numeracy covering the period up to 2020. There was a very strong response to the request for submissions up to the deadline of the end of February. In excess of 460 written submissions were received and these are being examined in detail. In parallel, focused consultation meetings are being held with groups of key stakeholders.
Targets and timescales for the implementation of various aspects of the literacy strategy will be set out in the finalised strategy, following consideration of the submissions and meetings with key stakeholders. Consultation meetings will conclude in early May and the strategy will be prepared thereafter with the input of a National Literacy and Numeracy Implementation Group, which I intend to appoint shortly. In parallel with the preparation of the strategy, preparatory work for implementation is taking place in my Department and its partner agencies.
43 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the fact that primary schools in County Kildare have the highest class sizes in the country; if he plans to deliver a more equitable approach to the allocation of resources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5598/11]
Class size data for primary schools is compiled by my Department on an annual basis and is available on the Department's website.
The staffing schedule is the mechanism used for allocating mainstream teaching posts to all schools irrespective of what county they are in.
School authorities are advised in the staffing schedule to ensure that the number of pupils in any class is kept as low as possible, taking all relevant contextual factors into account (e.g. classroom accommodation, fluctuating enrolment etc.). In particular, they should ensure, as far as possible, that there is an equitable distribution of pupils in mainstream classes and the differential between the largest and the smallest classes is kept to a minimum.
With over 20,000 individual classes spread across all schools throughout the country there will always be differences in individual class sizes.
44 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the provision of a new school for Carrigallen, County Leitrim. [5625/11]
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers applied to my Department for large scale capital funding for a school building project to provide an extension.
In accordance with the published criteria for large scale building projects, the project for this school has been assigned a band 2 rating. Information in respect of the current school building programme along with all assessed applications for major capital works, including this project, 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 the Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of a project for the school in question at this time.
45 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the provision of the new second level school for Ballinamore, County Leitrim. [5626/11]
The new post primary school to be provided in Ballinamore, County Leitrim is one of eight schools which were approved for inclusion in the 3rd bundle of schools to be procured via Public Private Partnership.
This bundle was handed over to the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA) in July 2010 to commence the tender procurement process.
This process is ongoing and a number of consultation meetings have been held with the shortlisted bidders. Subject to the successful completion of this process, including securing the necessary local authority consents, it is anticipated that the schools in this bundle will be ready for occupation in September 2013.
46 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on the report of the expert group on future skills needs regarding the level of achievement in maths among Irish students; if he will implement the recommendations of the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5634/11]
The Report of the Expert Group called for the introduction of bonus points for higher level mathematics in the Leaving Certificate. I am pleased to say that all third level institutions have collectively decided to operate a bonus points scheme for higher level mathematics for a four year trial period from 2012 to 2015 with a review in 2014. A bonus of 25 points will be allocated to students who achieve a grade D3 or above in Leaving Certificate higher level mathematics.
As recommended in that report, a major programme of reform in mathematics in second level schools has begun in all schools in September 2010, building on the experiences of 24 project schools which started the programme in 2008. Project Maths is designed to encourage better understanding of maths, to reinforce the practical relevance of maths to everyday life, and to ensure better continuity between primary and second level, and junior and senior cycle. A key objective is to improve attainment levels in maths and to encourage more students to take the subject at higher level
A national programme of professional development for all teachers began in 2009, and will continue to at least 2013. Some €5 million was spent on this area in 2010 and an estimated €3 million in 2009. This investment will be continued in 2011 and funds have also been provided for the development of a post graduate programme for teachers who need additional support.
A Project Maths implementation support group was established as an industry/education partnership to examine and report to the previous Minister on how best stakeholders from business, second level and higher education can work together to achieve the objectives of Project Maths. The group was chaired by Mr Frank Turpin, former Education Manager in INTEL Ireland, and nominee of the Irish Business and Employer's Confederation on the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, and the group includes representation from the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs. The group reported in June 2010 making recommendations on:
awareness measures which promote positive attitudes to mathematics and encourage more students to consider careers in this area;
how the partnership can add value to the teaching and learning approaches and support the curriculum in Project Maths; and
how best increased take-up of mathematics at higher level can be encouraged.
The group's work includes examination of a range of reports relating to mathematics including that of the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs. It is fully accepted that Ireland must improve standards significantly in mathematics to keep pace with the demands of the smart economy.
My Department is also engaging with stakeholders on a draft literacy and numeracy plan which is designed to promote a significant improvement of literacy and numeracy levels of children across primary and second level schools. Taken together, these initiatives are designed to ensure that literacy and numeracy are given top priority in schools, and that our young people develop the skills they need to participate effectively in today's society.
47 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Skills the current status of the project maths programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5635/11]
Project Maths began in all second level schools in September 2010 for first year students in Junior and Leaving Certificate. The initiative builds on the experiences of 24 project schools which began the programme in 2008. Project Maths is being implemented on a phased basis over a three period across 5 strands of mathematics as follows:
Phase 1: Strand 1 — Statistics and Probability + Strand 2 — Geometry and Trigonometry
Phase 2: Strand 1+2+ Strand 3 — Number + Strand 4 — Algebra
Phase 3: Strand 1+2+3+4+ Strand 5 — Functions.
Project Maths is designed to encourage better understanding of maths, to reinforce the practical relevance of maths to everyday life, and to ensure better continuity between primary and second level, and junior and senior cycle. A key objective is to improve attainment levels in maths and to encourage more students to take the subject at higher level
A national programme of professional development for all teachers began in 2009, and will continue to at least 2013. Some €5 million was spent on this area in this area in 2010 and an estimated €3 million in 2009. This investment will be continued in 2011 and funds have also been provided for the development of a post graduate programme for teachers who need additional support.
The NCCA website www.ncca.ie. sets out the draft syllabus for Strands 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 at junior and senior cycle, a draft common mathematics course for the first year in junior cycle, and a Geometry course. The website www.ProjectMaths.ie sets out additional supports in the form of teaching and learning plans, a forum for teachers, and additional resources. These resources will expand over time as each of the strands is implemented.
A high level of mathematical achievement is vital for Ireland's future competitiveness in the knowledge economy. We urgently need to improve attainment levels in maths generally and to encourage more students to take higher level maths.
48 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on proposed changes to school transport (details supplied). [5644/11]
The changes to school transport relating to school transport provision under the Closed School Rule, were announced in the 2011 budget by the previous Fianna-Fáil-Green Party Government and derive from a recommendation in the recently published Value for Money Review of the scheme. This review was conducted in accordance with criteria for such reviews and included independent expertise. In essence the change to the rule means that the distance criteria will be applied uniformly and equitably on a national basis. From the 2012/2013 school year, school transport eligibility for all pupils newly entering national schools will be determined by reference to the nearest national school, having regard to ethos and language.
Existing eligible primary pupils availing of transport under the Closed School Rule will retain transport eligibility for the duration of their schooling, provided the requisite distance is met.
49 D’fhiafraigh Pearse Doherty den Aire Oideachais agus Scoileanna maidir leis an Teastas Gaeilge do Mhúinteoirí Iar-bhunscoile, cé mhéad múinteoir nua-cheaptha a rinne an TGMI i mbliana; cé mhéad iarrthóir sna blianta 2007-2010, agus cé mhéad pas agus teip, a bhí ann; agus, sa chás nach n-éiríonn le hiarrthóir, an féidir ceapachán a dhéanamh, pé scéal é, i scoileanna Gaeltachta, agus i scoileanna eile ina bhfuil an Ghaeilge mar ghnáthmheán teagaisc. [5648/11]
Is mian liom a chur in iúl don Teachta nach gcoinníonn an Roinn staitisticí/eolas ar féidir teacht orthu go héasca faoin líon múinteoirí a ceapadh agus cáilíocht TGMI acu. Níl múinteoirí i dteideal liúntas ar bith as cáilíocht den saghas sin a bheith ina seilbh.
Léiríonn an tábla thíos na torthaí a fuair múinteoirí a sheas an scrúdú don Teastas Gaeilge do Mhúinteoirí Iarbhunscoile ó 2007- 2010.
|
BLIAIN |
IOMLÁN NA nIARRTHÓIRÍ |
PAS |
TEIP |
|
2007 |
83 |
67 |
16 |
|
2008 |
113 |
96 |
17 |
|
2009 |
65 |
62 |
3 |
|
2010 |
63 |
50 |
13 |
Éilítear an Teastas Gaeilge do Mhúinteoirí Iarbhunscoile chun an riachtanas Gaeilge a shásamh chun duine a cheapadh (a) mar mhúinteoir in Iarbhunscoil Gaeltachta (b) mar mhúinteoir in Iarbhunscoil arb í an Ghaeilge an gnáthmheán teagaisc (i gcás ábhar seachas an Ghaeilge) nó (c) mar mhúinteoir a bheidh ag teagasc aon ábhair (seachas an Ghaeilge) trí mheán na Gaeilge in aon iarbhunscoil. Más rud é nach bhfuil an Teastas i seilbh an mhúinteora ar é/í a cheapadh ceaptar é/í faoi chonradh ar feadh bliana amháin agus bliain aige/aici chun an céanna a shealbhú. Mura shealbhaíonn ní mór an post a athfhógairt.
50 D’fhiafraigh Pearse Doherty den Aire Oideachais agus Scoileanna cé mhéad iar-bhunscoil Ghaeltachta atá ann ina bhfuil an Ghaeilge mar ghnáthmheán teagaisc (maidir le hábhair seachas an Ghaeilge); agus cad iad ainmneacha na scoileanna seo. [5649/11]
51 D’fhiafraigh Pearse Doherty den Aire Oideachais agus Scoileanna cé mhéad iar-bhunscoil Ghaeltachta atá ag teagasc roinnt de na hábhair trí mheán na Gaeilge; agus cad iad ainmneacha na scoileanna seo. [5650/11]
Tá fúm ceisteanna 50 agus 51 a thógáil le chéile. Foilsíonn mo Roinnse liosta de na hiarbhunscoileanna uile sa tír ar a suíomh gréasáin www.education.ie. Tá iarbhunscoileanna a sholathair oideachas trí mheán na Gaeilge i 2009/2010 do chuid dá ndaltaí nó dóibh go léir aicmithe mar "1" faoi cholún 5 ar an liosta seo. Tá an liosta de an hiarbhunscoileannna a bhfuil rangú "1" acu le fáil don Teachta ar an gcomhad leis seo.
|
An Roinn Oideachais agus Eolaíochta |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Contae |
Baile |
Ainm na Scoile |
Uimh. Rolla |
|
Co. Cheatharlach |
Easca |
Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach |
70440A |
|
Co. an Chlair |
Ennis |
Ennis Community College |
70830N |
|
Co. Chorcai |
Gleann Maghair |
Colaiste An Phiarsaigh |
62301N |
|
Co. Chorcai |
Baile Mhic Ire |
Colaiste Ghobnatan |
70920O |
|
Co. Chorcai |
Ballincollig |
Coláiste Choilm |
71103K |
|
Co. Chorcai |
Bantry |
St Goban’s College, Sheskin |
70930R |
|
Co. Chorcai |
Béal Atha an Ghaorth |
Scoil Mhuire |
70931T |
|
Co. Chorcai |
Cobh |
Cobh Community College, Carrignafoy |
70970G |
|
Co. Chorcai |
Fermoy |
Coláiste an Chraoibhin, Duntaheen Road |
70990M |
|
Co. Chorcai |
Mallow |
Davis College, Summerhill |
71020G |
|
Co. Chorcai |
Youghal |
Pobalscoil na Tríonóide |
91513S |
|
Coraigh |
Corcaigh |
Gaelcholáiste Mhuire, An Mhainistir Thuaidh |
62531H |
|
Coraigh |
Cork |
Coláiste Chríost Rí, Capwell Road |
62560O |
|
Coraigh |
Corcaigh |
Coláiste Daibhéid, An t-Ardán Theas |
71124S |
|
Ath Cliath |
Baile Atha Cliath 7 |
Coláiste Mhuire, Bothar Rath Tó |
60450U |
|
Ath Cliath |
Baile an Bhóthair |
Coláiste Íosagáin, Bóthar Stigh Lorgan |
60042F |
|
Ath Cliath |
Bóthair Stigh Lorgan |
Coláiste Eoin, Baile an Bhóthair |
60041D |
|
Ath Cliath |
Glasnaíon |
Scoil Chaitriona, Bóthar Mobhí |
60700R |
|
Ath Cliath |
Baile Atha Cliath 13 |
Gealcholáiste Reachrann, Bóthar Mhainistir na Gráinsí, Domhnach Míde |
76085N |
|
Ath Cliath |
Baile Atha Cliath 22 |
Coláiste Chilliain, Bóthar Nangor, Cluain Dolcáin |
70100W |
|
Ath Cliath |
Baile Atha Cliath 24 |
Coláiste de hÍde, Br Thish Motháin Thuaidh, Br Chaisleáin Thigh Mótháin, |
70021D |
|
Ath Cliath |
Leamhcán |
Coláiste Cois Life, Gleann an Ghrífín |
76065H |
|
Co. Dhun na nGall |
Árainn Mhór |
Gairmscoil Mhic Diarmada |
71244F |
|
Co. Dhun na nGall |
Bun Chranncha |
Gaelcholaiste Chineál Eoghain, Muileann Thulaigh Gharbháin |
76107U |
|
Co. Dhun na nGall |
Doirí Beaga |
Coláiste Phobail Cholmcille, Baile Úr, Oileán Thoraí |
76079S |
|
Co. Dhun na nGall |
Highroad |
Coláiste Ailigh, Sprackburn House |
76081F |
|
Co. Dhun na nGall |
Leifear |
Gairm Scoil Chú Uladh, Béal an Átha Móir, An Clochan |
71242B |
|
Co. Dhun na nGall |
Leitir Ceanainn |
Pobalscoil Chloich Cheannfhaola, An Fálcarrach |
91408V |
|
Co. Dhun na nGall |
Leitir Ceannain |
Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair, Doirí Beaga |
91409A |
|
Co. na Gaillimhe |
An Spideal |
Colaiste Chroi Mhuire |
63130R |
|
Co. na Gaillimhe |
ATHENRY |
Gaelcholaiste an Eachréidh, c/o Co Galway VEC Offices, Coiléar Bán |
76102K |
|
Co. na Gaillimhe |
Corr na Mona |
Gairmscoil Fheichin Naofa |
71320S |
|
Co. na Gaillimhe |
Indreabhán |
Colaiste Cholmcille |
71250A |
|
Co. na Gaillimhe |
Oileáin Arann |
Coláiste Ghobnait, Inis Oírr |
71370K |
|
Co. na Gaillimhe |
Ros Muc |
Gairmscoil na bPiarsach |
71380N |
|
Co. na Gaillimhe |
Árainn |
Gairmscoil Éinne Oileain Arann, Cill Rónain, Inis Mór |
71300M |
|
Co. na Gaillimhe |
An Cheathrú Rua |
Scoil Chuimsitheach Chiaráin |
81012N |
|
Co. na Gaillimhe |
Carna |
Scoil Phobail Mhic Dara |
91411K |
|
Gaillimh |
Gaillimh |
Coláiste Iognáid S.J., Br. Na Mara |
62970K |
|
Gaillimh |
Gaillimh |
Coláiste na Coiribe, Bothar Thuama |
71330V |
|
Co. Chiarrai |
Daingean Uí Chúis |
Coláiste Íde, Baile an Ghóilín |
61301I |
|
Co. Chiarrai |
Caherciveen |
Coláiste na Sceilge |
76068N |
|
Co. Chiarrai |
Trá Lí |
Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí, Tobar Mhaigh Dor |
70560K |
|
Co. Chiarrai |
An Daingean |
Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne, Bóthar an Spá |
91511O |
|
Co. Chill Dara |
An Curragh |
Gael Cholaiste Chill Dara, Loiste, Herbert |
68072I |
|
Co. Chill Chainnigh |
Bóthar Urmhumhan |
Coláiste Pobail Osraí |
70641K |
|
Co. Chill Chainnigh |
New Street, |
City Vocational School |
70610W |
|
Co. Luimnigh |
Newcastle West |
Desmond College, Station Road |
71790J |
|
Luimneach |
Luimneach |
Laurel Hill Coláiste FCJ, Cnoc Na Labhras |
64270P |
|
Luimneach |
LUIMNEACH |
Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh, Meal Sior Anraí |
76101I |
|
Co. Lu |
Dún Dealgan |
Colaiste Rís, Sraid an tSéipéil |
63880O |
|
Co. Mhaigh Eo |
Tuar Mhic Éadaigh |
Coláiste Mhuire |
64691Q |
|
Co. Mhaigh Eo |
Ballina |
Colaiste Chomain, Rossport |
72140V |
|
Co. na Mi |
Athboy |
Coláiste Pobail Rath Cairn, Ráth Cairn |
71991T |
|
Co. Mhuineachain |
Muineachán |
Coláiste Oiriall, Ard Féa |
76091I |
|
Co. Uibh Fhaili |
Clara |
Ard Scoil Chiarain Naofa, Frederick St. |
72530L |
|
Co. Thiobrad Arann |
Nenagh |
Nenagh Vocational School, Dromin Road |
72440K |
|
Co. Thiobrad Arann |
Thurles |
Coláiste Mhuire Co-Ed, Castlemeadows |
72490C |
|
Co. Thiobrad Arann |
Clonmel |
Central Technical Institute |
72420E |
|
Co. Phort Lairge |
Rinn O gCuanach |
Meánscoil San Nioclás |
76066J |
|
Port Lairge |
Waterford |
Gaelcholaiste Phort Lairge, c/o Rugby Club, Kilbarry Road |
68078U |
|
Co. na hIarmi |
Athlone |
Athlone Community College, Retreat Road |
71410T |
|
Co. Loch Garman |
Brownswood |
Meanscoil Gharman |
68080H |
|
Co. Chill Maintain |
Arklow |
Gaelcholaiste na Mara |
76106S |
|
Co. Chill Maintain |
Bré |
Coláiste Raithín, Bóthar Florence |
70821M |
52 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the financial implications for families of the introduction by the previous Government of a €50 per child charge for primary school pupils; the reason for the removal of the closed school policy for the provision of school transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5651/11]
The €50 charge announced by the previous Fianna Fáil-Green Party Government in the 2011 budget and which applies to all eligible primary pupils is being introduced to ensure that school transport provided for these pupils is fully utilised in a cost efficient manner. Given that the cost per child of this service is approximately €1,020 per year, it is essential to ensure that the seats provided on buses daily are utilised to the maximum extent and that services are only provided where warranted. We all have to understand the legacy of economic mismanagement which the last government gave to the country
Eligible pupils holding medical cards and pupils with special educational needs will be exempted from paying the charge. In addition, the maximum family charge to be levied at primary level for eligible pupils will be €110 while the overall combined maximum charge per family is not being increased from the current rate of €650 per annum. Parents will continue to be given the option of spreading the annual payments over two instalments in July and December.
The changes to school transport relating to school transport provision under the Closed School Rule also announced in the 2011 budget, derive from a recommendation in the recently published Value for Money Review of the scheme. This review was conducted in accordance with criteria for such reviews and included independent expertise. In essence the change to the rule means that the distance criteria will be applied uniformly and equitably on a national basis. From the 2012/2013 school year, school transport eligibility for all pupils newly entering national schools will be determined by reference to the nearest national school, having regard to ethos and language.
Existing eligible primary pupils availing of transport under the Closed School Rule will retain transport eligibility for the duration of their schooling, provided the requisite distance is met.
53 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will support the case of a family (details supplied) regarding housing. [5600/11]
In order to qualify for rent supplement a person must have been residing in private rented accommodation or accommodation for homeless persons or an institution (or any combination of these) for a period of 183 days within the preceding 12 months of the date of claim for rent supplement. A person may also qualify for rent supplement where an assessment of housing need has been carried out within the 12 months preceding the date of claim and the person is deemed by the relevant local authority to be eligible for and in need of social housing support.
In all other cases, a person who wishes to apply for rent supplement is referred, in the first instance, for an assessment of eligibility for social housing support by the local housing authority in the area where the claim to rent supplement is made (and the person intends to reside). Only when the person has been assessed as being eligible for and in need of social housing support, does the person become eligible for consideration for rent supplement.
The person concerned has advised that she is currently awaiting completion of a housing needs assessment by the relevant local authority and that when this assessment is completed she will then apply for rent supplement.
54 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will arrange child dependant allowance in respect of a person (details supplied). [5605/11]
The person concerned is in receipt of a child dependant allowance with effect from 2 March 2011.
Inquiries are continuing regarding the entitlement of the person concerned to an arrears payment in respect of this child. On completion of these inquiries a decision will be made on the entitlement and the person concerned will be advised of the outcome.
55 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the grounds on which jobseeker’s allowance was refused in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; if and when it is expected to restore payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5633/11]
Payment of jobseeker's allowance is subject to a means test. Following a review of the allowance the person concerned was assessed with the capital value of farmland which she owns but is not using or leasing. As her means were in excess of the statutory limits for receipt of the allowance, her claim was refused with effect from 12 August 2009.
While a formal decision issued to her advising that her claim had been disallowed, unfortunately an administrative error was made in recording this decision. She was inadvertently paid jobseeker's allowance, equivalent to the full personal qualified adult rate and two child dependant rates from 12 August 2009 to 15 February 2011.
She was notified of this decision to disallow her claim on the grounds that her means were in excess of the statutory limit for award of jobseeker's allowance and she appealed this decision.
Her appeal was subsequently heard by a social welfare appeals officer on 15 February 2011 who, having considered all the available evidence, disallowed her appeal after conducting an oral hearing. Her payment to jobseeker's allowance was disallowed on foot of the appeals determination.
The person concerned then applied for and is in receipt of supplementary welfare allowance at weekly rate of €370.40 from 17 February 2011 and a mortgage interest subsidy of €887.33 per month and this is now being investigated.
56 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if there will be a sports capital scheme for 2011/2012; if an application process will be opened; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5593/11]
No decision has been taken yet on a new round of the Sports Capital Programme.
57 Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the criteria for the warmer homes scheme (details supplied) has changed recently and is affecting the completion of work that has already started; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5595/11]
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers the warmer homes scheme (WHS) on behalf of my Department. The scheme aims to provide energy efficiency improvements to homes in, or at risk of, energy poverty. The scheme, which is delivered through a combination of community-based organisations (CBOs) and a panel of private contractors, is available nationwide and was delivered to 24,291 homes in 2010. The scheme has addressed over 64,000 fuel poor homes since 2000 with a target delivery of an additional 17,500 homes in 2011.
The objective of the scheme is to assist the maximum number of vulnerable homes possible, and in particular to ensure that support is effectively targeted at the most vulnerable homes.
The key eligibility criteria for the scheme have been that the householder is in receipt of a fuel allowance, invalidity or disability benefit with some additional flexibility allowed for exceptional hardship cases. The fuel allowance is a supplementary allowance available to persons already in receipt of benefits including disability and invalidity benefit. However, the fuel allowance is means tested and is therefore the best available indicator of the lowest income and most vulnerable homes. In addition to utilising the fuel allowance criterion the SEAI and the community-based organisations work in close partnership with local networks of poverty and community support organisations including public health nurses, MABS and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul to identify particularly vulnerable homes.
It would not be normal practice under the scheme for work to be started and not completed. If the Deputy wishes to forward details of specific instances to my office I would be happy to have my officials pursue the matter. Alternatively, queries in relation to individual applications can be addressed to the WHS hot line — 1800 250 204 where all queries from scheme applicants and public representatives are dealt with immediately.
58 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to amend the Building Control Act to address the situation facing trained and qualified architects who are effectively being prevented from registering to use that title due to the excessive registration fee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5582/11]
I have no plans to amend the Building Control Act 2007 along the lines suggested.
Part 3 of the Act enables eligible persons engaged in the provision of architectural services to register for the use of the title architect. The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) has been designated as the registration body for the purposes of Part 3 of the Act.
A number of routes to registration are provided for in sections 14, 15, 16 and 22 of the Act having regard to the differing approaches to gaining the requisite knowledge, skills and experience adopted by individual applicants. Section 22, in particular, includes a provision to address the position of a category of practically trained persons who had already been providing architectural services in Ireland commensurate with those understood as being provided by architects for the purpose of the Building Control Act 2007 for a period of ten years at the time the Act became law. This provision is transitional in nature and enables this category of persons to become registered once they have been assessed as eligible for registration by the Technical Assessment Board in accordance with the practical experience assessment procedure.
Taken in their totality the various routes to registration provided for under Part 3 of the Act represent a registration process that is open, fair and transparent.
Section 62 deals with the specification of registration fees and, importantly, requires that a fee specified must not in any case exceed the total of the costs in providing the services for which the fee is paid and the reasonable costs incurred by the registration body in collecting, accounting for and administering the fee. I understand that the registration body has confirmed that the recommended fees are in line with the requirements of section 62.
The Act does not seek to regulate the function or role of architects. Its purpose rather is to provide statutory protection of the title architect so that only those who are suitably qualified and registered will be lawfully entitled to use the title. Eligible persons who decline to register can continue to practice architecture and provide architectural services but they cannot use the title architect or sign certificates to that effect.
Registration is not obligatory and the decision by eligible persons to seek registration, now or at a future date, will typically be made having regard to commercial considerations based on each individual's own assessment of their existing business potential and the additional business opportunities they anticipate that registration may bring.
59 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the provision of a sewerage scheme for Waterville, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5583/11]
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 Kerry. The Waterville water and sewerage scheme (Design/Build/Operate Contract) is included in the programme amongst the list of contracts in the county to start in the period 2010-2012.
Work on the water distribution and sewer network contract for Waterville is substantially completed. In December 2010 my Department advised Kerry County Council that funding is available to allow it award the contract for the Waterville Water and Wastewater Treatment Plants Design/Build/Operate contract, at a cost of €8.67 million. The contract will be funded on a shared basis between my Department and Kerry County Council.
60 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the provision of a sewerage scheme for Killcummin, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5584/11]
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 Kerry.
The Kilcummin sewerage scheme is included in the 2010-2012 programme as a scheme at planning. In view of the high unit cost of providing the scheme, Kerry County Council has been asked to review its scope before the council can be given approval to prepare contract documents for the work.
61 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will confirm that the annual car tax renewal for a car (details supplied) has been increased from €333 in 2010 to €447 in 2011, which amounts to an increase of approximately 33 33%; if it is proposed to review this increase in the next budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5613/11]
I am not in a position to confirm the matter raised in the question. Motor tax rates were last increased in the budget of 2009 and the increases took effect from 1 January 2009.
62 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to introduce a grant scheme for the remediation of homes affected by pyrite in cases when all other remedies have been exhausted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5614/11]
63 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he will take to regulate the quarry industry in view of the problems encountered with pyrite; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5615/11]
64 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the measures he will introduce to ensure adequate consumer protection is provided to those purchasing a home in view of the inadequacy of the HomeBond guarantee in relation to pyrite; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5616/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 62 to 64, inclusive, together.
Appropriate measures necessary to prevent the use of pyritic material as hardcore filler in underground foundations in buildings have already been taken by my Department since the current pyrite problems first manifested themselves in mid-2007. These measures include: clear communication with local authorities, relevant public bodies and industry stakeholders to bring the matter and their responsibilities in relation to it to the notice of all concerned; the publication by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI), in response to my Department's intervention, of a revised Standard Recommendation on the use of aggregates as infill for civil engineering and road construction work, the new version of which came into effect on 7 December 2007 and which is intended to address the quality standards of new homes and buildings insofar as problems relating to pyrite are concerned; the amendment of the Technical Guidance Document (TGD-C) of the Building Regulations to reference the amended NSAI Special Recommendation, and give it practical effect in the context of building works. A copy of the relevant amendment to TGD-C is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie . These measures should greatly assist in preventing the recurrence of pyrite problems in housing.
The remediation of homes affected by pyrite is a matter for the parties concerned, namely the building owner, the relevant developer and the builder's insurers. Where the construction of a building is the subject of a contract between the client and the builder enforcement is a civil matter. The question of the introduction of a publicly funded grant scheme does not therefore arise. I have no function in relation to any scheme run by Homebond which is a private company.
Consumer protection in the area of quality construction of new dwellings is a critical issue and I have asked my Department to prioritise the formulation of policy proposals that will enhance compliance and enforcement of the building regulations in general.
65 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the measures he will introduce to amend the system of insurance bonds which are required by local authorities in advance of a development commencing. [5617/11]
Sections 34(4)(g) and 180(2)(b) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 provide respectively that a planning authority may attach conditions to a planning permission requiring the giving of adequate security for the satisfactory completion of a proposed development and, if a development is not subsequently completed satisfactorily, may apply a security, given under section 34, for the satisfactory completion of that development.
My Department has consistently advised planning authorities that it is essential that planning permissions for residential developments are subject to conditions under which an acceptable security is provided by way of bond, cash deposit or otherwise so as to secure the satisfactory completion of those developments. Planning conditions must require the giving of sufficient security prior to commencement of development and planning authorities should ensure that they are in a position to draw down the security in cases where a developer fails satisfactorily to complete a residential development, or phase of a development, within the specified period.
It is a matter for the planning authority to determine both the level of the security, the duration and the type of security (e.g. the lodgment of a bond from a financial institution such as a bank, insurance company or building society, a cash lodgment or a letter of guarantee from the Construction Industry Federation) that will be required for each residential development. The amount of the security, the duration and the terms on which it is required to be given, must enable the planning authority, without cost to itself, to complete the necessary services (including roads, footpaths, water mains, sewers, lighting and open space) to a satisfactory standard in the event of default by the developer. Similarly, the enforcement of planning conditions, including conditions in relation to bonds, is a matter for the relevant planning authority. The Interim Report of the Advisory Group on Unfinished Housing Developments published on 16 February 2010 found that practical experience in the operation of bonds by local authorities indicates that they can be problematic and time consuming to liquidate. The Advisory Group considers that the issue of securities and bonds merits further examination, including the use of more liquid securities such as cash deposits coupled to careful phasing of developments in a sequential manner to minimise the working capital impact. It is likely that that there will be specific recommendations in the Group's Final Report which is due to be submitted to my colleague, Minister Penrose, shortly. Arising from this analysis, I anticipate that my Department will consider the recommendations and assess what further policy advice and action are necessary in this regard.
66 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the introduction of a local authority certification process following the implementation of flood alleviation measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5618/11]
I assume that the question refers to flood mitigation works carried out by local authorities. Under existing arrangements funding to the authorities for such works is provided by the Office of Public Works (OPW) and issues arising in this context are a matter for my colleague the Minister for Finance who has responsibility for OPW.
67 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to amend the local government performance indicators to include a set of indicators around the completion and taking in charge of housing estates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5619/11]
The report Service Indicators in Local Authorities 2009 published by the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), sets out the latest information on local authority performances in 2009 across a range of 46 service indicators, including taking estates in charge. The taking estates in charge indicator was first introduced as a new service indicator in the 2008 report. The service indicator reports are available on the LGMA website www.lgma.ie .
68 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to commence a new process in relation to the reform of local government; the process he intends to use; the time line involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5620/11]
A range of work is already under way or in planning arising from the Report of the Local Government Efficiency Review Group and I am reviewing the next immediate steps to augment this. I will also be considering wider proposals to renew and develop the local government system in line with the Government's programme and building on relevant research and analysis already undertaken in this area.
Key objectives under the Government Programme include devolution of greater decision-making to local level, strengthening the powers and functions of local authorities; enhancing the development and leadership role of local government and strengthening its structures and funding arrangements. I intend bringing proposals to Government in due course on action to take forward the proposals in the Programme to strengthen the local government system and improve its capacity to meet current and future challenges and to make a substantial contribution to the national recovery effort.
69 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 194 of 15 December 2010, the position regarding the introduction of such a grant scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5646/11]
The introduction of a grants scheme for any purpose must be managed within current budgetary constraints. Insofar, as support for the upgrading of septic tanks is concerned, the matter is under review in my Department, including in the context of finalising proposals to respond to the 2009 judgment of the European Court of Justice regarding Ireland's failure to adopt the necessary legislation to comply with Articles 4 and 8 of Council Directive 75/442/EEC (the Waste Directive) as regards domestic waste waters disposed of in the countryside through septic tanks and other individual waste water treatment systems.
Under my Department's Rural Water Programme, grants are available to provide groups of households with the opportunity of connecting to public sewerage networks through communal sewage collection systems that are, in turn, connected to local authority sewers. Alternatively, the communal sewage collection system may be connected to sewage treatment facilities provided by the groups themselves. The rate of grant available for Group Sewerage Schemes is €2,031.58 per house or 75% of the cost of the scheme, whichever is the lesser.
70 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of training places and courses available to gardaí in the Templemore training centre and Garda Headquarters; the number who attended courses; the capacity for courses in each year from 2005 to date in 2011; the Garda budget allocated to fund ongoing training courses for gardaí for each year from 2005 to date in 2011 and the duration of each course; the maximum number of gardaí per course. [5564/11]
I have requested the information from the Garda Commissioner and I will write to the Deputy directly when this information is to hand.
71 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the Garda budget allocated to the Garda neighbourhood watch scheme in 2008, 2009, 2010 and to date in 2011 for the Dublin region. [5565/11]
I have sought the relevant information from the Garda authorities and I will respond to the Deputy as soon as the information is available.
72 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will allocate funding for the much needed refurbishment of the custody area and front public office for a Garda station (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [5566/11]
The programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation around the country is based on agreed priorities established by An Garda Síochána. This programme is advanced by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works, which has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. I am informed by the Garda authorities that plans for refurbishment work in the Garda station referred to by the Deputy are being progressed.
73 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of aircraft and helicopters currently in the Garda air support unit. [5567/11]
The Garda Air Support Unit currently consists of one fixed wing Britten Norman Defender aircraft and two EC135 helicopters.
74 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the procedure for a person to apply for consideration to enter Ireland from a visa exempt country (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5606/11]
In reply to the Deputy's Question, when a person has been deported on foot of a Deportation Order, it is open to such a person to apply to my Department for revocation of the Deportation Order pursuant to the provisions of Section 3(11) of the Immigration Act, 1999, (as amended), if there has been a change in the circumstances of the person concerned, or new information has come to light which has a direct bearing on his case. However I wish to make clear that such an application would require substantial grounds to be successful.
If an applicant was successful in their application to have their Deportation Order revoked and wished to return to Ireland, it would then be a matter for the Garda National Immigration Bureau to decide whether to grant entry to the State to a national from a visa exempt country.
75 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when he will open the public office at the Property Registration Authority offices in Roscommon town; the reason it has not been opened to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5632/11]
I can inform the Deputy that under the Government's decentralisation programme announced in 2003, approximately one third of the then staffing complement of the Property Registration Authority (PRA) were to be relocated to new offices in Roscommon Town. The new decentralised office for the PRA opened in Roscommon Town on 17 January 2011 and the advance party of staff, already located in Roscommon, transferred to the new building on that date. As of 28 February 2011, there were 81 staff members located in the new office.
Although the office in Roscommon Town doesn't incorporate a public office, I should point out to the Deputy that arrangements are already in place so that customers of the PRA may meet PRA staff by appointment in the office to discuss a pending application or other relevant areas of concern.
The transfer of any new or additional functions to the Roscommon office will continue taking account of resource availability and associated training requirements and the overall operational requirements of the organisation and its customers.
76 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the implications for Ireland of the Court of Justice of the European Union judgments of 8 March 2011 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5636/11]
I refer the Deputy to my public statement on this matter issued on Monday 21 March 2011 and which I trust addresses the implications referred to in his question. For the information of the House I have appended the text of that statement.
"Statement by Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence, Mr Alan Shatter, TD, on the implications of the recent ruling of the Court of Justice of the European Union in the case of Ruiz Zambrano.
Background
The Zambrano case was referred to the ECJ by a Belgian tribunal. Ireland along with a number of other Member States intervened in the proceedings. In summary, the Court ruled that Article 20 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union precludes a Member State from refusing a third country national upon whom his minor children, who are EU citizens, are dependent, a right of residence in the Member State of residence and nationality of those children, and from refusing to grant a work permit to that third country national, in so far as such decisions deprive those children of the genuine enjoyment of the substance of the rights attaching to the status of European Union citizen.
Ireland's Approach to Implementing the Judgement
First it is important to state that this judgement applies only where the child is a citizen. It has no implications whatever for Irish Citizenship law. The granting of citizenship remains a matter entirely for the Oireachtas under the Constitution.
Given the importance of the ruling in the Zambrano case, I have decided, with the support of my Government colleagues, to make a brief public statement outlining the consideration being given to cases involving Irish minor dependant citizen children who have a non-national third country parent or parents.
One possible approach in these matters is to wait for pending cases to be determined by the Irish Courts and for the Courts to interpret and apply the Court of Justice ruling. That is an entirely justifiable approach from a legal standpoint. However in this case the Government has agreed that there needs to be a more proactive approach and that it should make a clear statement of its intention to take early action in these cases, insofar as it is unnecessary to await rulings of the Courts. We should not tie up the courts unnecessarily or ask eligible families to wait longer than necessary.
Accordingly I have asked my officials to carry out an urgent examination of all cases before the courts (approximately 120 at present) involving Irish citizen children to which the Zambrano judgment may be relevant.
The Government has agreed with my proposal that early decisions in appropriate cases to which the Zambrano judgement applies be made without waiting for further rulings of the Courts.
I have also asked my officials to examine the cases in the Department in which the possibility of deportation is being considered in order to ascertain the number of cases in which there is an Irish citizen child and to which the Zambrano judgment is relevant. In addition, consideration will be given to those cases of Irish Citizen children who have left the State whose parents were refused permission to remain.
This initiative is being taken in the best interests of the welfare of eligible minor Irish citizen children and to ensure that the taxpayer is not exposed to any unnecessary additional legal costs."
77 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform his views on the Irish Human Rights Commission’s assessment which called for a statutory inquiry into human rights violations in the Magdalene Laundries; if he will institute this statutory inquiry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5637/11]
78 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will ensure that a formal apology for the State’s failure to protect women and young girls from abuse in the Magdalene Laundries is offered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5638/11]
79 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he intends to offer a formal apology on behalf of the nation for the failure to protect women and young girls from abuse in the laundries; and if he will make a statement on the Attorney General’s response to the Irish Human Rights Commission’s assessment that called on the Government to institute a statutory inquiry into human rights violations in the laundries. [5652/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 77 to 79, inclusive, together.
On 9 November, 2010 the Human Rights Commission published their assessment of the request by the Justice for Magdalenes (JFM) group to carry out an enquiry under Section 9 of the Human Rights Commission Act, 2000 into the treatment of women and girls who resided in Magdalen Laundries. The Human Rights Commission decided not to carry out a statutory enquiry itself as it is entitled to do under the legislation which established it and as was requested by the Justice for Magdalenes group. It recommended that a statutory mechanism be established to investigate the matters advanced by JFM and in appropriate cases to grant redress where warranted. Their assessment was the subject of an Adjournment Debate in this House on that same evening. As outlined to the House in that Debate, the assessment raises issues for a range of Government Departments as well as for the four religious congregations who operated the Magdalen institutions.
My Department, in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General whose role is to provide legal advice, has prepared a draft submission for the Government on the matter which I am now considering.
80 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will adjourn the case taken by the Department with responsibility for the marine against an organisation (details supplied) in Dublin 13, listed for hearing in the Circuit Court on 5 April next and allow negotiations to take place to resolve the matters at issue by mutual agreement. [5624/11]
The matter of "The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food -v- Comhair Iascaire Éireann Teoranta" has been listed for hearing in The Circuit Court on 5th April 2011. The matter is therefore sub judice and any involvement or comment by me would be inappropriate.
81 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when headage payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5631/11]
An application under the 2010 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 12 May 2010. Payments under the 2010 Single Payment Scheme and Disadvantaged Areas Scheme commenced nationally on 18 October 2010 and 22 September 2010 respectively.
The person named submitted an application with 7 land parcels, 3 of which required re-digitisation. My Department has completed this process. Payments under the Single Payment Scheme were made to the applicant in respect on eligible land parcels on 18 October 2010 and 1 December 2010, with the final balancing payment made on 3 February 2011. An advance payment under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was made on 21 September 2010 and the balancing payment issued to the applicant on 10 February 2011.
82 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether the new agriculture environment options scheme is going ahead this year; and when is it envisaged it will be announced. [5628/11]
I recognise the contribution that the Schemes operated by the Department make to farm incomes and particularly acknowledge the contribution of agri-environment schemes as an income support and a valuable policy measure to protect the environment. Following the implementation of the Agri Environment Options Scheme last year, my officials have carried out a review of the scheme and I am actively investigating the possibility of expanding the scheme. However the Government's National Recovery Plan sets out the expenditure ceilings for my Department for the period 2011 to 2014 and further participation in the scheme will have to be determined within the limits of the overall level of funding available to my Department. I will be making an announcement on the position for 2011 shortly.
83 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the way in which he intends to expedite the completion and commissioning of the cystic fibrosis unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5571/11]
I am wholly committed to the completion of this project, and together with St. Vincent's University Hospital and the HSE, we are taking every possible step in order to ensure earliest possible delivery of the new ward block. The contract for the ward block, awarded 14th October 2010, requires 18 months for construction from that date and is proceeding on track and within budget. Completion for service delivery is expected in early 2012.
84 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children his plans regarding the proposed national children’s hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5575/11]
The Government has committed, under the Programme for Government, to the construction of the New Children's Hospital.
Since appointment as Minister, I have been engaged in discussions with my officials and with the National Paediatric Hospital Board in order to brief myself on the work done on this project to date. I want to be clear about how we can best provide the hospital in the most cost effective manner while ensuring a high quality service for our children and young people.
I am currently considering the evidence presented to me and will make a decision, based on that evidence, as to how to proceed. In particular I wish to be satisfied that the hospital will provide the best possible clinical outcomes for children and young people, that its location best meets their needs and that the cost of building the hospital is both realistic and affordable to the exchequer.
You may rest assured that I wish to avoid any unnecessary delay to the development of this very important project.
85 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children when the referendum on children’s rights will be held; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5576/11]
The proposed wording for a constitutional referendum on children will be examined and submitted to Government shortly, and subject to agreement on the wording, a decision will be taken on the exact date.
86 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children his plans to legislate for and establish the proposed child welfare and protection agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5577/11]
Scoping work has commenced on the establishment of the new Agency, in particular to decide on the exact functions and reporting structures. Legislation will be developed when these key issues have been addressed.
87 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the provision of palliative care beds for a care home (details supplied) in County Roscommon. [5627/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
88 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the action he will take to increase the number of organ donations, pending his legislation to provide for an opt-out system; if he will consider the appointment of transplant co-ordinators in the health system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5572/11]
I strongly endorse the activities of a number organisations that are involved in promoting donor awareness and the need for organ donation. There will be particular attention on these issues in the coming weeks, with the launch of Organ Donor Awareness Week next Tuesday, 29th March.
The Programme for Government includes a commitment to introduce an opt-out system of organ donation. My Department has consulted widely on this issue and is preparing legislative proposals on the donation and use of human organs for transplantation. It is proposed that these be included in a Human Tissue Bill which will also meet the recommendations of the Madden Report on Post Mortem Practice and Procedures. My Department is working to finalise the proposals for me as soon as possible.
In addition to consent systems, there is evidence from other countries that good co-ordination at hospital level and counselling arrangements for relatives are significant factors in achieving high organ donation rates. I am therefore also considering what practices and organisational changes could further improve donation rates in this country. I welcome the appointment of a Clinical Lead for National Organ Donation and Transplantation by the HSE whose work will help to improve hospital practice in relation to organ donation and transplantation.
89 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the mechanism he proposes to compensate the women excluded on age grounds alone from the Lourdes hospital redress scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5573/11]
In line with the Government's commitment in this regard, my Department will be considering the most appropriate mechanism to progress this matter.
90 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will establish an inquiry into the practice of symphysiotomy in hospitals here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5574/11]
My predecessor asked the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists to prepare a report concerning the practice of symphysiotomy in Ireland which would:
provide the Institute's assessment of the circumstances in which symphysiotomy was carried out in Irish obstetric units;
indicate what protocols or guidance existed over the years to guide professional practice; and
specify when the practice changed and why it changed at that time in Ireland.
I understand that the Institute sought to make arrangements for the review to be carried out by an external team and that, unfortunately, it was not possible to progress this in the way originally proposed. I also understand that efforts are progressing to put in place alternative arrangements with the assistance of a university of public health and my Department is in consultation with the Institute in this regard.
The HSE has assured my Department that it will continue to monitor and oversee the provision of necessary support services for women. In doing so the HSE is committed to being proactive in seeking out and offering help to women who had symphysiotomies and who may wish to avail of the services offered by the HSE.
91 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children the mechanism he will use to bring back responsibility for decision-making to him from the Health Service Executive; the timeframe involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5621/11]
The introduction of universal health insurance represents arguably the most profound reform of our health system since the foundation of the State. This Government has a clear mandate for its reform programme but it must be implemented in a planned and sensible way. The specific changes and timelines will be considered and identified over the coming months.
92 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children the waiting time for those seeking services from Beechpark Services; if those waiting times are acceptable to him; the way he intends to address the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5622/11]
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.
93 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding funding toward the use of an art assist machine in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon. [5630/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
94 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Transport when funding will be provided to Dublin City Council to upgrade Clonshaugh Road, Dublin 17, between the junction of Clonshaugh Avenue and the junction of Riverside Park. [5568/11]
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. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities own resources and are supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of projects to be funded is also a matter for the local authority.
The 2011 Regional and Local Road Grant Allocations were announced on 1st February 2011. A total of €375.176 million is being provided for the maintenance and improvement of regional and local roads.
In July last year, local authorities were invited to submit applications for funding in 2011 under the Specific Improvement Grants Scheme. Included in the submission from Dublin City Council, was an application for consideration for funding on the Clonshaugh Road.
This application, together with all other applications received, was considered having regard to the eligibility criteria, the need to prioritise projects, competing demands from other local authorities and the funds available for the scheme in 2011. However, this project was not among the projects selected for funding under this scheme of grants in 2011.
It is open to Dublin City Council to continue to prioritise this project and to include it among its applications for funding in 2012 when submissions are sought later this year. Alternatively, Dublin City Council may fund this project from its own resources.
95 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Transport when funding will be provided to Dublin City Council to enable an upgrade on the Donaghmede roundabout at the Hole in the Wall, Clarehall Avenue, Grange Road junction. [5569/11]
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. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities own resources and are supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of projects to be funded is also a matter for the local authority.
The 2011 Regional and Local Road Grant Allocations were announced on 1st February 2011. A total of €375.176 million is being provided to local authorities this year for the maintenance and improvement of regional and local roads.
In July last year, local authorities were invited to submit applications for funding in 2011 under the Specific Improvement Grants Scheme. However, funding for an upgrade on the Donaghmede Roundabout was not among the applications submitted by Dublin City Council. It is open to Dublin City Council to prioritise this project and to include it among its applications for funding in 2012 when submissions are sought later this year. Alternatively, Dublin City Council may fund this project from its own resources.
96 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport if he is committed to the future provision of a public service obligation contract for the Kerry-Dublin/Dublin-Kerry air route; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5585/11]
I can confirm that my Department is currently in the final stages of consultation with Kerry Airport on the specifications for a new PSO air service on the Kerry-Dublin/Dublin-Kerry air route. The next step in the process is the submission of the tender notification to the European Commission for publication in the Official Journal of the European Communities. On that basis, and allowing for the requirements of EU Regulations regarding the procurement of PSO air services, a new PSO service could be in place by year end.
97 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Transport his plans to alter the situation whereby payment is only accepted by the relevant authority by way of debit or credit card when taxi SPS licence payments are being renewed. [5623/11]
The regulation of the taxi industry, including licence payment methods, is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA). The Commission for Taxi Regulation was subsumed into the NTA with effect from 1 January 2011.
I have referred the Deputy's Question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten days.
