Vol. 730 No. 1
34 Deputy Liam Twomey asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if changes to the present milk superlevy regime are envisaged to allow Irish dairy farmers to prepare for the abolition of the milk quota in 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7753/11]
As I mentioned in my response to a similar question earlier, it must be emphasised that the primary responsibility for producing within quota and ensuring the avoidance of a super levy rests with every individual milk producer. It is up to dairy farmers, who are familiar with the rules of the quota regime, to make the right decisions and protect themselves from exposure to potentially very damaging fines. The rules are very clear, and were confirmed as recently as last December by the European Commission.
Having said that, I want to see a soft landing for farmers in Ireland and in other member states, whether as a result of changes to the rate of super levy or some other mechanism. My officials have raised the matter with the Commission on a number of occasions in recent months, and I used the opportunity provided by my attendance at the Council of Agriculture Ministers last month to ask the Commission to consider whether a more flexible approach might be adopted for the limited number of member states, including Ireland, likely to have a super levy problem in the run-up to 2015. I also raised the matter in a bilateral meeting I had with Commissioner Ciolos prior to the Council meeting. I intend to continue to raise the issue with member state colleagues and with the Commission. However, the Commission has resisted attempts to revisit this issue, and there is, in any event, no guarantee that a majority of member states will support calls for a more flexible milk quota regime. Therefore Irish dairy farmers must continue to operate on the assumption that no further changes will be made to the quota arrangements agreed in the context of the CAP Health Check.
36 Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on whether the targets set out in the Food Harvest strategy can be achieved by 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7701/11]
The key growth targets in Food Harvest 2020 are as follows:
Increase the value of primary output of the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sectors by €1.5 billion. This is a 33% increase compared to the 2007-2009 average.
Improve the value added in the sector by €3 billion.
Achieve an export target of €12 billion for the sector. This is a 42% increase compared to the 2007-2009 average.
Increase milk production by 50%.
Add 20% to the value of the beef sector.
These targets were agreed by a Committee made up of key figures from the agriculture, food, forestry and fisheries sectors. I am confident that these key targets will be achieved by 2020. They are fully supported by the programme for Government, which notes that "the expansion and innovation in our dairy and meat sectors will be a key priority under a reformed CAP and we will work with industry to achieve more intensive levels of production". The Government is committed to delivering the required state actions to drive implementation.
Indeed, actions have already been taken to progress implementation. A high-level implementation committee (HLIC) was established specifically to
ensure a fully joined up effort on the part of State bodies in the implementation of FH2020;
encourage proactive engagement by the agri-food industry and private sector with the implementation process; and
act as a "clearing house" for issues relating to the development of the sector.
The HLIC consists of the CEOs of Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland, BIM, Teagasc, the Environmental Protection Agency and senior departmental officials. To date, this committee has met three times, and I look forward to chairing the next meeting, which is scheduled for next week, 19 April.
My focus for the next meeting will be to review progress made to date but also to actively engage with industry on the key issues of competitiveness, innovation and upskilling. Representatives from IBEC and FORFAS are attending this meeting and I am confident that our engagement and dialogue around these three key issues will facilitate the achievement of substantial progress towards the achievement of the agri-food industry targets.
The first progress report on the implementation of Food Harvest 2020 is due for publication in July 2011 and will outline progress to date in relation to each of the recommendations contained in the FH2020 report.
37 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if his attention has been drawn to the recent report suggesting that the cost to the State in tourism and other sectors during the 2001 foot and mouth epidemic was €210 million; and the measures he will put in place to prevent a similar crisis in the future affecting our tourism sector. [6193/11]
The report, entitled "An Economic Evaluation of Foot and Mouth Disease", which was produced in March 2002, relates to a study undertaken of the economic evaluation of the effects of the 2001 FMD outbreak, with particular reference to
the economic impacts of FMD and the control measures introduced on the main sectors affected and on the Exchequer; and
an estimate of the likely economic impacts on these sectors if the control measures had not been taken.
The report sets out in detail the costs and benefits across the various sectors of the economy in respect of the single outbreak which was contained. The overall conclusion was that had a widespread outbreak occurred, overall GDP would have been reduced by between 0.96% (€1 billion) and 5.4% (€5.6 billion) through the impact on the agriculture sector. A widespread outbreak would also have had significant negative implications for the tourism sector and for non-tourist-related elements of the domestic economy such as sporting events.
My Department updates its contingency plans on an ongoing basis to ensure that measures are in place to contain potential outbreaks of exotic diseases so as to keep disruption of all trade to the minimum.
38 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the proposed closure of his Department’s office in Mullingar, County Westmeath. [7790/11]
The impending closure of the Department's local office in Mullingar represents the final phase of implementation of an extensive review carried out within the Department almost two years ago.
Paramount to restructuring the local office network was concern to ensure a high-quality service to farmers and food business operators throughout the country. The new structure not only maintains a high-quality service but will, in fact, enhance the level of service available, while at the same time driving greater efficiencies and encouraging broader flexibilities within the new regional office structure. Through greater use of modern technology, the simplification of schemes and programmes, the reduction in disease levels, the uptake and availability of on-line services and an improved telephone service as a result of electronic systems, quite apart from the reduction in office footfall, the Department's public interface with its clients can now be carried out in any one of the sixteen new regional offices. Our analysis shows that many Westmeath farmers will have shorter journey times to the Navan, Tullamore or Roscommon regional offices than they currently have to Mullingar.
The financial savings from the reorganisation of the local offices are very significant. For 2011, the reduction in running costs amounts to some €20 million, along with a reduction of over 250 staff. For 2012, the reduction in running costs is expected to be some €30 million, with an overall staff reduction of over 400. These savings are vital to ensure that my Department stays within its allocated spending targets.
39 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the bilateral meetings he has had with other EU agriculture Ministers on the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7704/11]
Since I assumed office on 9 March last, I have had bilateral meetings with my French and Spanish ministerial colleagues. I also had the opportunity to meet my ministerial colleagues from the 26 other member states at the recent EU Council of Agriculture Ministers meeting in Brussels on 17 March last. The meeting with my French counterpart, Bruno Lemaire, was devoted primarily to the reform of the CAP. We shared common ground on the strategic importance of agriculture in both Ireland and France and for the future of Europe as a whole. We agreed to work together to ensure that the reform of the CAP delivers an ambitious policy, adequately funded to reinforce and develop the strategic importance of agriculture to the EU. We also agreed on a number of important markers in the CAP negotiations, namely: — the distribution of future direct income support within member states should allow for the necessary flexibility of member states to take account of the agricultural and regional conditions which apply to that country; and — any future "greening" of the direct income support schemes should be simple to apply both for farmers and member state administrations and should not entail additional costs for either.
The meeting with my French counterpart also dealt with the MERCOSUR negotiations and the potential difficulties they could pose for the EU beef sector. The contribution which extensive EU beef production can make to the global fight against climate change was discussed and it was agreed that both countries would work together to highlight this.
While my meeting with my Spanish counterpart was devoted largely to fisheries matters, we did have the opportunity to exchange views on the broad parameters of the upcoming CAP negotiations.
40 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his priorities in the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7709/11]
41 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7708/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 40 and 41 together.
The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is the fisheries policy of the European Union, which was first put in place in 1983 and has been subject to reviews every 10 years. The most recent review in 2002 and the next is formally scheduled for 2012. The European Commission published a Green Paper on the latest reform of the CFP in April 2009 in order to launch a consultation with member states and stakeholders and to initiate a broad public debate on the future CFP reform. An extensive nationwide public consultation process was conducted under the chairmanship of Dr. Noel Cawley. These consultations with all stakeholders contributed to the paper Ireland’s Response to the Commission’s Green Paper, which was submitted to the Commission early in 2010.
I have examined this submission and have met and discussed the priorities for reform with fishing industry representatives. I fully endorse the priorities for change set down in Ireland's response on the CFP reform. The reforms we are seeking reflect a pragmatic approach involving changes that collectively take account of economic, social, environmental and sustainability factors.
The priorities I will focus on are:
retention of the Hague Preferences;
a new focus on addressing the discarding of fish at sea, with a complete ban being introduced for stocks in a depleted state;
the retention of a management system based on national quotas, supported by increased flexibility and a rejection of the mandatory privatisation of fish quotas or the introduction of international trading of fish quotas;
new measures to strengthen the market for EU producers and increase quayside prices;
reinvigoration of European aquaculture, with continued structural support and a roadmap that establishes a route for growth in harmony with Community environmental law;
a new regional structure to decision-making at EU level, with increased industry responsibility and the development of a culture of compliance;
In the current economic climate, we need a policy that both simplifies and reduces the administrative burden while at the same time strengthening and supporting the industry's capacity to maximise employment in coastal communities dependent on fishing. In particular, I will be pursuing initiatives that will deliver and sustain jobs in coastal communities rather than those that promote the concentration of wealth and delivery of excessive profits for a few big international businesses. I support a system that maintains strong economic links between national quotas and traditional fishing communities, which these quotas were allocated to assist. This will be a key area for Ireland in the ongoing discussions on the CFP.
I have arranged a bilateral meeting for tomorrow with Commissioner Damanaki, where I intend to vigorously pursue Ireland's position on key aspects of the reform which are critical for Ireland.
42 Deputy Liam Twomey asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to establish a unified food marketing board for Irish food products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7752/11]
We have a unified body, Bord Bia, with the role of promoting the marketing of Irish food, seafood, drink and horticulture. In its market research, development and promotional activities, Bord Bia works closely with producers, industry and existing and potential customers throughout the world to communicate the high-quality sustainable production systems operating in Ireland and identify and promote market opportunities. Actual selling of produce is reserved to the private sector under EU Treaty and Single Market rules, and public funds may not be used to advertise purely on the basis of origin. That is the function of the sector and the market.
Food Harvest 2020, which sets out a vision and plan for the agri-food and fisheries sector, recommends the establishment of a "Brand Ireland". That recommendation reflected the advice in Pathways for Growth, a high-level assessment by Harvard Business School, which was engaged by Bord Bia in 2010 to assess export opportunities for the Irish food and drink industry and provide a new perspective on pathways for growth. The concept is to develop an umbrella brand or enhanced reputation for the industry which is credible and distinctive and which embraces all aspects of Irish food and drink.
Food Harvest 2020 details the key steps necessary to progress the development of this approach. These include detailed scientific and market research into consumer trends, a strategy to emphasise the green and natural reputation of Irish food and drink, a credible scientific basis for product claims and the creation of the highest standards of food safety and traceability implemented in all participating products. The complexity in delivering on such an umbrella concept is high. A three-to-five year timeframe will be required.
Bord Bia has taken a lead role on this and has conducted research on a number of successful brand models. In addition, working closely with Carbon Trust and Teagasc, it has achieved PAS2050 standard (Publicly Assured Systems) for the sustainability credentials of its Beef and Lamb Quality Assurance Schemes. This is a very positive step towards realising the Brand Ireland concept.
43 Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his proposals to consult with stakeholders in the fishing industry on the negotiations for reform of the Common Fisheries Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7711/11]
The European Commission published a Green Paper on the Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) in April 2009 in order to launch a consultation process with member states and all stakeholders and to initiate a broad public debate on the future CFP reform. Dr. Noel Cawley was appointed to oversee an extensive nationwide consultation process involving all stakeholders, fishermen, processors, environmental NGOs, etc., to contribute to the development of Ireland's formal response to the Commission's Green Paper. Advertisements were placed in national newspapers and a web portal was set up on the Fishing Net website so that all stakeholders and the general public could submit their observations on the CFP. Ireland’s Response to the Commission Green Paper, which was informed and shaped by the results of the consultation process, was submitted to the European Commission early in 2010.
Under the planned EU timetable for the review, it is now expected that the much-awaited draft legislative proposals on the reform will be circulated before the summer recess. As recently as 30 March, I took the opportunity to discuss Irish priorities on the CFP agenda with industry representatives. It is my intention to continue the consultation process with industry representatives and other stakeholders over the coming months with a view to maintaining a coherent and unified Irish position.
I can assure the Deputy that I am fully committed to working closely with fishing industry representatives, other stakeholders, our member state colleagues and the European Commission to strengthen the fisheries policy as a whole, as well as the traditional coastal communities that are dependent on it.
44 Deputy Paul J. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is concerned that Ireland could be over quota in the new 2011 to 2012 milk quota year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7716/11]
58 Deputy Paul J. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has the confirmed quota position for the 2010 to 2011 milk quota year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7717/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 44 and 58 together.
As of earlier today, with 99% of the national quota accounted for by returns from milk purchasers, estimated butterfat-adjusted deliveries for the 2010/2011 milk quota were 0.43% under quota. While these are estimated figures, and a definitive outcome will not be available for some months, at this juncture it appears that the country has, fortunately, avoided a superlevy.
I am of course concerned that Ireland could be over quota in the 2011/2012 milk quota year. Favourable market and weather conditions over the last twelve months have contributed to a dramatic increase in milk production, which has resulted in a remarkable turnaround from a position in which the country was 10% under quota at the end of the 2009/2010 milk quota year. Increased heifer retention is also a significant factor in what is expected to be a further increase in milk production in 2011/2012 and subsequent years. Indeed, anecdotal evidence suggests already that this year has got off to a flying start.
In such circumstances it is appropriate to again remind all dairy farmers of the need to carefully plan their production activities and pay close attention to the limitations imposed by the quota regime if they are to avoid potentially very damaging superlevy fines. Even allowing for a further increase of 1% in the national quota since 1 April 2011, recent delivery trends, if repeated, will put the country in serious danger of going over quota. It is therefore incumbent upon every milk producer to exercise the necessary caution and to seek advice from, for example, Teagasc on the most sensible approach to be taken in managing their enterprises as they enter a crucial phase of the preparations for quota abolition in 2015.
For my part, I intend to continue my efforts to raise the issue of a soft landing at every opportunity with member state colleagues and with the Commission. The latter has resisted attempts to revisit this matter, and there is, in any event, no guarantee that a majority of member states will support calls for a more flexible milk quota regime. Therefore, Irish dairy farmers must continue to operate on the assumption that no further changes will be made to the quota arrangements agreed in the context of the CAP Health Check.
46 Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the arrangements that will apply to the agri-environment options scheme in 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7719/11]
I announced the opening of the Agri-Environment Options Scheme (AEOS) for the submission of 2011 applications on Wednesday 6 April. The closing date by which applications must be submitted to my Department is 16 May. Scheme documentation is now available on my Department's website and printed documentation will be available shortly. To assist both planners and farmers intending to apply for the 2011 scheme, officials from my Department have arranged a series of information meetings. Details of these meetings are published in the national press.
To fund the scheme, I have put in place an allocation of €25 million per year, with a maximum payment to any farmer of €4,000 per annum, and this will determine the overall number of farmers accepted into the scheme.
While the contract will be for a five-year period, the terms and conditions and payment rates for the new participants in the scheme will apply until the end of 2013. At that stage, participants will have the option of either terminating the contract without penalty or of opting to join whatever scheme may be introduced in the new EU Financial Perspective programming period.
As happened last year, farmers with commonage land or designated Special Areas of Conservation or Special Protection Areas will have to follow a sustainable management plan prepared by a planner, and will be given priority access to the scheme. Applicants other than those requiring a sustainable management plan are not required to engage a planner to complete their application forms.
47 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to meet the EU Fisheries Commissioner, Maria Damanaki; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7712/11]
52 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will meet the EU Fisheries Commissioner, Maria Damanaki, to discuss the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7713/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 52 together.
Following my appointment as Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine on 9 March, I immediately sought a meeting with Commissioner Damanaki in order to discuss Ireland's priorities regarding the Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy and indeed other items of key importance for the Irish fishing industry. It is important from the perspective of furthering Ireland's priorities that I build up a close working relationship with the Commissioner, so I see this as an opportunity to develop a rapport and connect in a meaningful way with Commissioner Damanaki. I welcome the fact that the Commissioner has agreed to participate in a bilateral meeting with me tomorrow, Thursday 14 April, in Luxembourg. I expect to have a frank and forthright discussion with her on the reform of the CFP, from an Irish perspective, and to reiterate our concerns as outlined to me at my meeting with industry representatives on 30 March.
From an Irish perspective, our long-term priority is to have a strong, sustainable and profitable seafood industry that supports fishing and related economic activities in our coastal communities. I will be taking this opportunity to demonstrate the importance to Ireland of retaining quotas as a public good, hence ensuring the economic returns are kept within our coastal communities, protecting jobs and our social infrastructure. I want to explain our dependence on the Hague preferences, why they were introduced and, crucially, why they must be reflected in the new CFP. The issue of discards is high on the reform agenda, with the Commissioner giving it her top priority. I want to assure her of Ireland's desire and my personal commitment to address this wasteful and unacceptable practice.
From a practical viewpoint, we need to look at the reform timetable and the implications it will have for the Irish Presidency, which commences in January 2013.
I also want to use this opportunity to discuss the implications of the current disagreement with Iceland and the Faroe Islands on the management of the North East Atlantic mackerel stock. Economically, mackerel is Ireland's most important fishery, and it is critical for the long term stability of our pelagic fleet and the processing industry that depends on mackerel. The declarations for 2011 of both Iceland and the Faroes are that they intend to continue fishing unilaterally, outside international agreement and safe biological limits. Their actions are irresponsible, untenable and a serious threat to the well-being of the stock that has been built up by prudent management over a number of stable years under a Coastal States framework. I want to press the Commissioner on the need to take strong action now, including the possibility of trade sanctions to bring pressure to bear on these two parties to come to the table with reasonable demands and agree a long-term management framework for mackerel.
I look forward to a positive and constructive meeting with Commissioner Damanaki. I will endeavour to give her a full understanding of Ireland's priorities for both the reform and for the coming months.
48 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the negative impact the privatisation of Coillte would have on the tourism industry in Ireland. [6195/11]
Coillte is one of 28 commercial state bodies that are currently being reviewed by the Review Group on State Assets and Liabilities chaired by Mr. Colm McCarthy. No decisions have yet been taken by the Government about the future of Coillte.
49 Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps he will take to ensure the achievement of the targets outlined in Food Harvest 2020. [7786/11]
63 Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to make progress on the recommendations of Food Harvest 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7700/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 49 and 63 together.
The implementation of Food Harvest 2020 is a key commitment of the programme for Government. I would assure the Deputy that I am personally focused on progressing the wide range of State actions needed to drive implementation of this strategic document, which also includes the following targets to be achieved by 2020:
Increase milk production by 50%.
Improve the value-added in the sector by €3 billion.
Achieve an exports target of €12 billion, a 42% increase
Increase the value of primary output of the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector by €1.5 billion.
Actions have already been taken to progress implementation. A high-level implementation committee (HLIC), involving the CEOs of the relevant state agencies, has been established specifically to
ensure a fully joined up effort on the part of State bodies in the implementation of FH2020;
to encourage proactive engagement by the agri-food industry and private sector with the implementation process; and
act as a "clearing house" for issues relating to the development of the sector.
I chair this Committee and I look forward to chairing its next meeting, which is scheduled for 19 April next.
Other actions already taken include:
A call for research proposals targeted on the priorities identified in Food Harvest 2020.
An Agri Research Expert Advisory (AREA) Group has been established to facilitate input from the agriculture industry into primary research programmes.
A Dairy Expansion Activation Group, comprised largely of private sector representatives, recently published a Dairy Sector Road Map, which sets out the actions required by the sector to achieve the target 50% increase in milk production by 2020.
A Beef 2020 Activation Group has been established. The purpose of this group is to drive the implementation of the relevant recommendations of the FH 2020 strategy. The group first met on 24 February and is at present engaging with the various stakeholders. Both the beef and dairy groups are to report back to the HLIC.
Bord Bia, Teagasc and the UK Carbon Trust are collaborating to verify and improve the sustainability aspect of Bord Bia's Beef Quality Assurance Scheme. Based on the work to date, from January 2011 environmental and economic assurance will be provided for premium markets, particularly in the EU.
The ‘Brand Ireland' concept is being developed initially through the work of Bord Bia.
I will continue to work to make substantial progress towards the achievement of the agri-food industry targets, and this summer I will produce a progress report which will outline the actions taken on each of the 157 recommendations in Food Harvest 2020.
50 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will give a commitment to publish and introduce the animal health and welfare Bill in 2011. [7698/11]
It is my intention to publish the Animal Health and Welfare Bill this year. However, as the Deputy will be aware, the Bill is a large and complicated one and will require extensive work in conjunction with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel to complete the required legal drafting. Once a complete draft is available I intend to publish the Bill.
51 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps he is taking to support a live cattle trade to Britain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7606/11]
The live export trade complements the processed beef trade by providing alternative market outlets thereby underpinning the meat and livestock industry generally.
There are two major components to the live export trade: calf shipments to the Continent, and the export of forward stores and finished cattle to the UK. First quarter data for 2011 shows that live exports are 34% below the exceptionally high levels achieved during the corresponding period in 2010. Exports to Great Britain decreased by 59% on those for the same period in 2010, those to Northern Ireland are down by 36% and those to all other destinations fell by 33%. The strength of live cattle exports in recent years can be expected to impact on cattle supplies and disposals in 2011.
However, the main reason for the decline in live exports is the narrowing of the price differential between the average prices paid by processors for finished cattle in Ireland compared to Northern Ireland and Britain. This makes live exports to the sterling area less financially attractive when transport costs are taken into account.
As part of its remit to support the export of Irish livestock, Bord Bia provides up-to-date market information to exporters in the form of weekly livestock reports and bi-monthly updates from each of the major markets, as well as regular communication with market offices. In addition, Bord Bia's market offices promote contact with new customers, organise promotional events for Irish livestock, arrange inward buyer visits, attend livestock trade fairs and forecasting meetings, commission market research and organise credit rating and language interpretation services as appropriate on behalf of the sector.
53 Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his proposals for the 14,700 hectare annual forestry planting programme. [7785/11]
Under the programme for Government, there is a commitment to invest in a 14,700 hectares per annum afforestation programme. This is a challenging target, as the average afforestation rate over the last three years (2008-2010) was 7,000 hectares per year; the Government intends to increase that level of afforestation over the coming years. I am currently considering the best means to achieve this higher target.
54 Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps he will take to ensure a 20% increase in beef production over the next ten years, as set out in Food Harvest 2020. [7695/11]
The Food Harvest 2020 report provides a road map for the long-term development of the Irish agri-food and fishery sectors, including the beef industry, and contains a series of recommendations to realise the vision set out in that document. With regard to the beef industry, Food Harvest 2020 makes a series of recommendations focussed on enhancing farm competitiveness, improving technology uptake and knowledge transfer within enterprises at all levels, ensuring animal production systems optimise productivity while minimising greenhouse gas emissions, improving the efficiency of the processing sector, and developing an ‘Ireland' brand image to attract a price premium for Ireland's green, natural, grass-fed product. In our programme for Government, we have indicated our support for the overall 2020 strategy and its targets.
In relation to beef, an Activation Group, chaired by Mr. Michael Dowling, a former secretary general of my Department, has been established to progress implementation of the relevant recommendations in consultation with various stakeholders. It is envisaged that the group will complete its work towards the end of May 2011.
55 Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7702/11]
59 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the agreement reached at the March EU Agriculture Council on the broad approach to Common Agricultural Policy reform; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7705/11]
61 Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his priorities in the negotiations for reform of the Common Agricultural Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7703/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 55, 59 and 61 together.
Further reform of the CAP is under discussion because the current financial programming period for the EU budget, including funds for the CAP, will end in 2013. A Commission communication setting out broad policy options for the future CAP, "The CAP towards 2020", was presented on 18 November 2010. Following discussion of this communication at the Council of EU Agriculture Ministers, a majority of member states lent their support last month to a series of conclusions drafted by the Hungarian Presidency.
The Commission communication was the first formal step in the negotiating process for the CAP after 2013. The formal legislative proposals are due to be tabled by the Commission later this year. In that respect, the Presidency conclusions provide a strong signal to the Commission of the views of member states in this process. I believe the Presidency's text was an inclusive presentation of member states' positions and provides good guidance for the legislative work of the Commission.
The key issue for Ireland is that future EU agriculture policy should be common and well-funded, should address the twin objectives of increased competitiveness and sustainability and should provide Ireland with a fair share of EU funds. The continuation of direct payments to farmers is fundamental to achieving these goals. Decoupled income supports, together with judicious use of market management measures, serve to support and stabilise farm incomes and provide a platform for the production of food, the sustainable management of our natural resources and balanced rural development.
We also need to provide a series of targeted measures in the second pillar so that member states can focus on the particular needs of their own regions and sectors. I am particularly focused on the need for investment measures to restructure and modernise family farms. We must also, of course, provide appropriate scope to assist farmers with measures to underpin and improve the sustainability of their production systems and to encourage afforestation.
The size of the CAP budget will be determined by Finance Ministers and EU Heads of State and Government in the negotiations on the next multi-annual financial framework. Aside from seeking a well- resourced CAP, my main priorities in the upcoming negotiations on the CAP are:
to retain Ireland's current share of funding both for direct payments and for rural development in any redistribution of CAP funds between member states;
to obtain maximum flexibility in the payment model or method for distribution of single payment funds to farmers within member states; and
to retain investment and afforestation measures in the list of options for member states in the Rural Development regulation.
It is very early days in these negotiations. We still have to see the detailed legislative proposals and there will be difficult negotiations ahead, firstly to secure adequate funding from the overall multi-annual financial framework, and then to secure the CAP policies that are best suited to Irish needs.
56 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps he is taking to support the sheep industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7607/11]
The sheep sector in Ireland has experienced renewed confidence in recent times. The valuable contribution this sector makes to the overall agri-food economy cannot be overestimated. The industry's future will depend on its ability to meet the needs of the market and to do this effectively the focus must be on competitiveness, innovation and the demands of the consumer.
In our programme for Government, we indicated our support for the overall Food Harvest 2020 Strategy, which provides a vision for Irish Agri-Food and Fisheries for the next 10 years. Food Harvest 2020 targets 20% growth in output value for the sector by 2020 and sets out specific recommendations for the sheep industry. It predicts that over the coming years, demand for sheepmeat on the European market will outstrip production levels, which could provide opportunities for exporting countries such as Ireland, which should in turn provide the potential for better returns, provided the market and product diversification we have seen in recent years continues. The producer too should benefit from improved price prospects provided there is an increased focus on production, efficiency and product quality.
The recommendations of Food Harvest 2020 for the sheep industry focus both on farm competitiveness and the processing sector. On the farm side the emphasis is on the use of on-farm labour efficiencies and new technologies breed improvement and the production of a quality product. On the processing side, the report highlights efficiencies, innovation and improved product range.
Food Harvest 2020 endorses the recommendations of the 2006 Sheep Industry Development Strategy Group. The responsibility for the implementation of most of the recommendations lies with the industry itself. However a number of its recommendations are the responsibility of my Department and the state agencies under its aegis, and significant progress has been made in implementing them. The initiatives taken include:
The establishment of ‘Sheep Ireland' to take over the Department's current breed improvement programme and develop a new one. An interim Sheep Board, comprising representatives of farming organisations and breeders will oversee this process, with the Irish Cattle Breeders Federation (ICBF) providing the technical and professional service required.
The establishment of the Lamb Quality Assurance Scheme in 2007. This Scheme is operated by Bord Bia and now has over 8,300 participants.
As part of its efforts to promote lamb in the home and export market, Bord Bia, together with its UK and French counterparts, is part of a generic promotion campaign in the valuable French market.
Teagasc has developed a comprehensive plan to restructure its sheep support services, including a Better Farm Programme for sheep, which aims to establish focal points for the on-farm implementation, development and evaluation of technology that is relevant to the sheep sector. This approach provides an opportunity to engage with sheep farmers on the use of the latest management practices and to identify research and development needs.
The sector has also benefitted from a number of key supports in recent years, most notably: €7 million from the 2009 Single Farm Payment National Reserve under the Uplands Sheep Payment Scheme; €54 million for the three year grassland sheep scheme which commenced last year; and €8 million for the sheep fencing/mobile handling equipment scheme. In addition, Bord Bia will also spend up to €1 million this year on the promotion of sheep and lamb at home and abroad and Teagasc has allocated almost €1.5 million for sheep research for 2010.
All of the initiatives and supports I have mentioned have bolstered the sheep industry. I am confident that the Food Harvest 2020 targets for the sector can be met, provided its recommendations are followed. I am committed to supporting this industry and will monitor its progress closely.
57 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his priorities for the next three months. [7699/11]
My priority for the next three months is to provide a renewed impetus to the development of the agri-food and marine sectors of our economy.
In our programme for Government, we have indicated our overall support for the Food Harvest 2020 strategy. Over the coming months I intend to ensure that all of the relevant stakeholders are fully engaged in the process of implementing the report's recommendations. As far as the dairy sector is concerned, Dr. Sean Brady, who chaired the Dairy Expansion Activation Group, continues to be involved in the implementation phase and, with assistance from my Department, will report at the end of June on progress to date with the implementation of the 55 actions identified in the Dairy Road Map. In addition, The Beef 2020 Action Group is at present engaged in a round of consultations with stakeholders to progress the implementation of the recommendations in Food Harvest 2020. I will be actively involved in facilitating the implementation of the recommendations in other sectors. In this context my intention is to produce a progress report in mid year on Food Harvest 2020.
In Europe, I will continue my engagement with the Commission, the European Parliament and Agriculture Ministers from other member states to ensure a successful outcome for Ireland in the upcoming negotiations on reform of the CAP. However, a more immediate priority is the MERCOSUR negotiations, where I will be working to ensure that there is a thorough debate in the EU Agriculture Council of the impact assessment due shortly from the Commission and that no offers are exchanged unless they have been vetted in full by the Council and the European Parliament.
At EU level, the Commission's dairy package is at present being discussed at Council and I will continue to work to ensure the best possible outcome for the Irish dairy sector. In the context of the abolition of milk quotas, I will of course continue to seek to ensure a soft landing for all member states, by whatever mechanism is deemed appropriate. There is strong resistance, however, to the idea of a further adjustment to the milk quota regime in the run-up to 2015. In the meantime, therefore, I will be reminding dairy farmers that they must continue to operate within the constraints of the quota regime here at home in order to avoid potentially very damaging superlevy fines.
I am of course extremely conscious that the margins of farmers in the pig sector are under significant pressure at present, primarily as a result of increasing feed prices. I have already met with farmer representatives in relation to this issue and I will continue to work at EU level to ensure that appropriate mitigating measures are taken.
On the fisheries side, I will work on establishing relationships with the Commissioner and other Ministers with regard to Ireland's Common Fisheries Policy reform agenda. I will be supporting BIM in the delivery of the value-added and development agendas. Continued management of Ireland's fish quotas will also be important.
I will also work towards the elimination of the aquaculture licence backlog and continue working towards the establishment of an effective licence monitoring and compliance system. I intend to continue the development of foreshore licensing co-ordination with the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government. The ongoing review of all aquaculture legislation is very important to my Department, as is the continuing work towards the introduction of new aquaculture licence templates.
In relation to the six fishery harbour centres owned by the Department, I will work towards their continued maintenance and development, subject to the availability of resources. I also intend to publish a revised Rates and Charges Order in respect of these Centres.
Another priority will be to carry out the comprehensive expenditure review which was announced by Government earlier in the week. In this context, I will be examining efficiencies that can be achieved in the expenditure by my Department to ensure that it can comply with the demands for the National Recovery Plan. In addition I will focus on ensuring that the Croke Park Action Plan is implemented in my Department and that it will continue to meet its obligations in relation to the employment control framework.
60 Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the way the agrifood sector can contribute to the country’s economic revival; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7715/11]
As mentioned in my reply to Parliamentary Question 7714/11, I would regard the key contribution which the agri-food sector will make to Ireland's economic revival relates to
Its potential to generate export led growth
Its embedded contribution to the economy and employment,
Its ability to garner foreign export earnings; and
Together these provide the solid foundation for positioning this progressive indigenous industry as one of the central components of the country's export driven recovery.
62 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to revive the inshore fishing industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7784/11]
Firstly, I wish to give an assurance that I am strongly committed to the development of all aspects of the seafood sector, where I see considerable opportunity for job creation. In the current economic climate I am conscious of the economic importance of the inshore sector to our coastal communities and I wish to give a commitment that I will work to maintain and enhance this sector. I understand that the inshore sector has its own particular issues and challenges which I intend to examine over the coming period. The inshore fisheries are economically important and provide premium product for the home and export markets. The challenge for me will be to support environmental sustainability and to maximise returns from both the fresh and processed markets.
Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) is the State body responsible for the development of the fishing industry. BIM's Strategy for the Seafood Sector is geared at improving the seafood sector's performance by assisting industry through programmes of skills development, enhanced environmental compliance, product differentiation and labelling, new product development and innovation and improved commercial practices. The Strategy's time frame and targets are designed to contribute to the achievement of 2020 targets in Food Harvest (FH 2020).
To date, BIM has made considerable progress in assisting the seafood sector in being more innovative. The BIM Seafood Development Centre, based in Clonakilty, Co. Cork, has assisted in excess of 60 companies in using its innovation facility since its launch in 2009. BIM is also taking a strong role in terms of working with inshore fishermen in relation to conservation and management issues.
An area of immediate priority is to deliver compliance with the Birds and Habitats Directives following the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling in 2007 that Ireland was not in compliance with the requirements of the Birds and Habitats Directives in a number of respects. Failure to comply with the Directives could see the imposition of fines on Ireland. The implementation of the Birds and Habitats Directives is particularly relevant to inshore fishermen as the areas designated as special areas of conservation or special protected areas are primarily located in bays and inlets and other areas close to the coastline. There are over 90 such designated areas around the coastline. All activities in Natura sites, including inshore fisheries, are subject to assessment to determine significant impacts on the conservation objectives of the Natura sites. The immediate priority is to deliver compliance of fisheries activities with the requirements of these Directives. The National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Marine Institute, BIM and the Department are prioritising the assessment of compliance for inshore fisheries around the coast in Natura sites on a systematic basis. My objective is to deliver full compliance with the Birds and Habitats Directives for this sector at the earliest possible date.
64 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of applications received in the bioenergy scheme 2011; the number of hectares of planting which will be supported under the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7780/11]
The Bioenergy Scheme for 2011 was launched on 16th November 2010, with a closing date for receipt of applications of 19th January 2011. Due to the adverse weather conditions experienced in December 2010 and early January 2011 which caused great difficulty for farmers, advisors and contractors in assessing suitability of land for planting with miscanthus or willow, the then Minister announced a two week extension of the closing date for receipt of applications until 2nd February 2011.
89 applications were received under the 2011 Bioenergy Scheme. To date, 42 pre-planting approvals have been issued, representing in the region of 200 hectares of willow and a further 200 hectares of miscanthus. 22 applications were either withdrawn after the Scheme closing date or did not meet the criteria for the Scheme. Some 25 further applications are still being processed.
65 Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to open the agri-environment options scheme in 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7718/11]
I announced the opening of the Agri-Environment Options Scheme (AEOS) for 2011 on Wednesday 6 April. The closing date for the receipt of applications is 16 May 2011 and I have made available €25m per year to fund the scheme. The maximum annual payment to any farmer is €4,000. Scheme documentation is available on my department's web site and printed documentation will be available shortly.
While the contract for successful applicants will be for a 5 year period, the terms and conditions and payment rates for the new participants in the scheme will apply until the end of 2013. At that stage, participants will have the option of either terminating the contract without penalty or of opting to join whatever scheme may be introduced in the new EU Financial Perspective programming period.
As with last year, farmers with commonage land or designated Special Areas of Conservation or Special Protection Areas will have to follow a ‘Sustainable Management Plan' prepared by a planner and will be given priority access to the scheme. Applicants other than those requiring a sustainable management plan are not required to engage a planner to complete their application form. These applicants will be accepted into the scheme based on the pre-determined selection criteria set out in the scheme Terms and Conditions.
66 Deputy John Browne asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the situation in which rights have been given to entities outside of Ireland not to disclose matters relevant to the European Union free movement of goods (details supplied) thus adversely affecting small medium enterprises here and the economy and if he will act to close this VAT loophole and ensure that Irish companies are not put at a disadvantage. [7799/11]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that under the European common system of Value-Added Tax a VAT-registered trader in one Member State supplying goods to a VAT-registered trader in another Member State may zero-rate the supply and the customer must self account for VAT in that other Member State. The Value-Added Tax treatment of intra-EU cross-border sales of goods means that where, for example, a UK VAT-registered supplier supplies goods to an Irish VAT-registered customer the transaction is not subject to UK VAT and the Irish customer must self-account for Irish VAT. In addition, the EU VAT Directives provide that any VAT registered trader who supplies goods to a VAT registered person in another Member State must complete a VAT Information Exchange System (VIES) Statement detailing all the VAT registered customers in other Member States to whom he/she has supplied goods in respect of which that customer is liable for payment of the VAT due. The VIES Statements form the basis of compliance programmes in Member States. The VIES Statements are a reporting requirement that is distinct from Financial Regulation Standard 8 and details of intra-Community supplies between a retailer established in another Member State and an Irish retailer should be included on a VIES Statement.
The information provided by the Deputy refers to UK suppliers shipping goods to Ireland on behalf of and for UK retailers using Irish VAT numbers. The Deputy suggests that this may be happening in some cases without applying the correct invoicing arrangements, resulting in a loss of VAT. I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that their audit and assurance programmes in relation to VAT include an examination of intra-community acquisitions, where such imports are a feature of the businesses being audited. These examinations generally involve a cross check of the VIES system. Where there are indications that incorrect arrangements may be in operation the Revenue Commissioners on their own or, in the case of UK suppliers in conjunction with HM Revenue and Customs (under mutual assistance procedures), carry out further enquiries to ensure compliance with VAT legislation. If the Deputy has more specific details in relation to the alleged abuses he should forward those details to the Revenue Commissioners.
67 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider, in the context of upcoming budgets, the practice by the Revenue Commissioners of demanding a second home payment from property owners operating multiple bed-sits or apartments within a single building, and similarly where the second home fee is being charged on each home in holiday home developments, as both of these sectors are suffering grievously in the current economic conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7818/11]
The charge on non-principal private residences is a matter for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage & Local Government. I understand from his Department that the Government decided in 2009 to broaden the revenue base of local authorities by introducing a charge on all non-principal private residences. The charge is payable by the owners of private rented accommodation, holiday homes and any other residential property that is not the owner's sole or main residence. The Local Government (Charges) Act 2009, which sets out the detail of the charge, defines residential property as including flats, apartments and bedsits. The €200 charge is payable on each unit of accommodation used, or suitable for use as a separate dwelling, whether or not any amenity or facility in the building or premises may be shared. The owner of a house split into a number of bedsits is thus liable for the charge on each unit in that house.
While there is no specific exemption from the charge for commercial holiday home developments, the Local Government (Charges) Act 2009 makes it clear that a property will be exempt from the charge if it is liable for commercial rates.
The view was taken when the Bill was being debated in the Oireachtas that this was the fairest approach.
There are no plans to amend the charge on non-principal private residences in either respect at present.
68 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Finance the construction projects planned by the Office of Public Works for Government agencies in the next five years and the next five to ten years and if he will provide a list of same. [7838/11]
The capital allocation of the Office of Public Works is expended upon flood relief works, purchase of sites and buildings, certain grants and building construction projects. The advancement of capital works over the next five to ten years, particularly construction projects, is dependant upon the availability of funding each year and prioritisation of projects by the various client Departments and Agencies served by OPW, eg An Garda Síochána, Revenue Commissioners, various Government Departments, etc. It is not possible to predict at this point what level of funding will be available and therefore not possible to provide a list of projects to be undertaken in the timeframes stated. OPW also undertakes capital works for certain State Agencies on a repayment basis, eg Courts Service, Prison Service, Coastguard Service. Predicting the advancement of projects for these bodies is subject to similar considerations.
69 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Finance if he will reintroduce the excise duty rebate scheme or an alternative scheme of reduced fuel prices for the coach touring holiday business. [7852/11]
A derogation under EU Directive 2003/96 on Energy Taxation allowed the application of a reduced rate of Mineral Oil Tax to fuel used for the purposes of certain road passenger services. That derogation has expired and the arrangement was, therefore, terminated by the Finance Act 2008. It would not be possible, having regard to the relevant provisions of EU law, to re-introduce a scheme of that nature for those services.
70 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Finance the number of mortgage holders who have tracker mortgages, variable mortgages and fixed mortgages here. [7863/11]
I am informed by the Central Bank that approximately 52 per cent of owner-occupier residential mortgage debt relates to trackers, 33 per cent to other variable rates and the remainder is on fixed rates of over one year duration.
71 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Finance if the numbers of mortgage holders and the types of mortgage they hold can be broken down on a county basis. [7864/11]
I am informed by the Central Bank that they do not compile such statistics on a county basis.
72 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the impact of the recent bank deal on Exchequer spending for 2011 and 2012 onwards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7901/11]
73 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the impact of the Exchequer commitments to Anglo Irish Bank on each budget until 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7902/11]
74 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the impact of the Exchequer commitments to AIB on each budget until 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7903/11]
75 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the impact of the Exchequer commitments to Bank of Ireland on each budget until 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7904/11]
76 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the impact of the Exchequer commitments to Irish Life & Permanent on each budget until 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7905/11]
77 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the impact of the Exchequer commitments to Irish Nationwide on each budget until 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7906/11]
78 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the impact of the Exchequer commitments to EBS on each budget until 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7907/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 72 to 78, inclusive, together.
In terms of the recent banking announcement, it is not possible to be definitive at this time about the impact on the Exchequer position. The Government will require burden sharing from subordinated bond holders, will require capital generating asset disposals by banks and the banks will also be encouraged, where possible, to generate private sector investment. This will help reduce the requirement for funding for the banks from the Exchequer and alleviate the burden on the domestic taxpayer.
My Department is currently in the process of revising its overall macroeconomic and fiscal forecasts, including Exchequer borrowing estimates, in light of emerging economic, fiscal and banking data. These revised forecasts will be presented in the Irish Stability Programme Update which is due to be submitted to the EU Commission by the end of April in line with the terms of the new EU Semester.
In terms of relevant background information, the position is as follows.
In 2010, €25.3 billion was committed to be provided to Anglo Irish Bank by way of Promissory Note. The terms of the Promissory Note provides, inter alia, that 10 per cent shall be paid to the Note holder each year. The first such payment, amounting to €2.53 billion, was made to the institution in March 2011 and similar payments will fall due for payment from the Exchequer each year up to and including 2016. Further payments will also arise beyond 2016 until the principal amount of the Anglo Promissory Note, including accrued interest, has been fully paid off.
In 2010, €5.3 billion was also committed to be provided to Irish Nationwide Building Society (INBS) by way of Promissory Note. Like the Anglo Note, the terms of the INBS Promissory Note also provides, inter alia, that 10 per cent shall be paid to the Note holder each year. The first such payment, amounting to €530 million, was made to the institution in March 2011 and similar payments will fall due for payment from the Exchequer each year up to and including 2016. Further payments will also arise beyond 2016 until the principal amount of the INBS Promissory Note, including accrued interest, has been fully paid off.
The combined payment to Anglo Irish Bank and INBS in March 2011 was €3.06 billion and this sum is provided for in the end-March Exchequer Statement under Note 6 "Non-Voted Capital Expenditure”.
In 2010, €250 million was also committed to be provided to Educational Building Society (EBS) by way of Promissory Note. Payment of the original principal sum will be made in equal annual instalments of €25 million, beginning in June 2011 and will continue beyond 2016 until the principal amount of the EBS Promissory Note, including accrued interest, has been fully paid off.
The non-voted capital expenditure estimates for 2011-2014 contained in Budget 2011 provide for these payments to Anglo Irish Bank, INBS and EBS in each of the years 2011-2014.
The requirement for additional capital for the banking sector, arising from the results of the PCAR/PLAR process, was announced on 31 March.
The results show that a further €24 billion is required by the banking sector to buttress their balance sheets. Allied Irish Banks (AIB) requires €13.3 billion, Bank of Ireland requires €5.2 billion, Irish Life & Permanent (IL&P) requires €4 billion and EBS €1.5 billion.
It should be noted that €5.3 billion of this €24 billion represents a buffer over and above what was required to meet the requirements of the stress test. Moreover €3 billion of this figure will represent contingent capital.
€10 billion of the €24 billion will be provided from the National Pensions Reserve Fund (NPRF) and thereby involves no impact on the Exchequer position. This was already included in the budgetary forecasts published in December 2010. All of the capital support provided to AIB and Bank of Ireland to date has been sourced from the NPRF.
Finally, as noted at the outset, the impact of the net additional capital support for the banking sector, over and above what had previously been factored in, is currently being assessed. If the full additional €14 billion had to be sourced by the Exchequer, this could require additional debt interest expenditure of the order of some €800 million per annum. This is a purely technical estimate and there are a number of factors which will determine the actual increase in debt interest expenditure. As I have already outlined, there are a number of mitigating factors which will help reduce the requirement for funding for the banks from the Exchequer and alleviate the burden on the domestic taxpayer.
79 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance if he would reconsider his decision to merge the EBS into AIB in view of the relatively low level of State support for the EBS and the major financial and corporate governance issues at AIB; if he has considered permitting EBS to do a reverse takeover in view of AIB’s record; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7908/11]
In my Statement on Banking on 31 March 2011, I announced that the Government intends to combine the operations of AIB and EBS to build a second Pillar bank from the strengths of both institutions. This followed the announcement the previous day by the National Treasury Management Agency that the bid to purchase EBS did not represent good value for the State. The Government's decision followed an in-depth assessment of the future banking landscape in Ireland which was carried out by the authorities with the assistance of expert international consultants. The merger was also recommended to the Government by the Governor of the Central Bank and is consistent with the creation of viable and sustainable credit institutions able to lend to the real economy and to secure the maintenance of financial stability. The merger of AIB and EBS is an important and necessary step in the fundamental reorganisation of the banking system in Ireland in order to meet the Government's objectives for the sector. The merger will be subject to various regulatory approvals including in relation to EU State aid.
80 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance when he expects the first expenditure estimates for 2012; if Dáil Éireann will have any input into this process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7909/11]
The Comprehensive Review of Expenditure which is to take place over the coming months will examine all areas of public spending. The outcomes of the above process will be brought before Government in the autumn for consideration and decision in the annual Budget and Estimates process. I anticipate that expenditure estimates will be published in Budget 2012, as part of the unified budget process. The more detailed "Revised Estimates for Public Expenditure 2012" will follow and be discussed by the relevant Dáil select committee before being voted upon in the Dáil.
81 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance if he will indicate the timeframe for the preparation and publication of the jobs budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7910/11]
The Government is very strongly committed to a jobs and growth strategy. We are also fully committed to bringing forward as a matter of priority a Jobs Initiative to put this strategy into effect, as set out in the Programme for Government. While a specific date for the publication of such an Initiative has yet to be finalised, I would envisage that it will be some time in May. I can assure the House that this issue is a key priority for this Government and work is advancing on bringing the necessary policy measures forward.
82 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance his plans to establish a strategic investment bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7911/11]
As I indicated in a reply to PQ 7400 (No. 128) on 12 April, the Government will only be in a position to decide on the timing and the structure for setting up the Strategic Investment Bank when the necessary detailed assessment and planning work has been done. Because the necessary work is not completed, the Government Legislation Programme for the summer session which was published on 5 April does not contain legislation in relation to the Strategic Investment Bank.
83 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance if he will indicate the debt-to-GDP ratio to the end of 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7912/11]
Based on the macroeconomic and fiscal outlook underpinning Budget 2011, my Department forecast, in Budget 2011, that the general Government debt-to-GDP ratio would be 98.6% in 2011. In addition to being based on the normal macroeconomic and fiscal forecasts, this forecast was also based on the assumption that a sum of €10 billion would be required to recapitalise the banking sector in 2011. It was assumed that this capital amount would be sourced from the National Pensions Reserve Fund and would therefore involve no addition to the stock of debt.
The PCAR/PLAR process has been completed and we now know that the Central Bank has concluded that a further €24 billion is required by the banking sector, some €14 billion above the amount assumed in the Budget forecast. On a purely technical assumption that this entire additional sum was to be added to the debt, the general Government debt ratio in 2011 would increase by just under 9 per cent of GDP, and would on that basis stand at approximately 107 per cent of GDP.
This technical estimate was set out in the "Presentation on Banking Reorganisation” that was published on the Department of Finance website in the aftermath of the banking announcement on 31 March. However, it is not expected that this full additional amount of recapitalisation will have to be borne by the Exchequer.
Finally, it is important to point out that there are a number of other variables that make up the estimate of the debt ratio such as the level and composition of economic growth and the prospects for the public finances. In this regard, my Department is currently in the process of revising its overall macroeconomic and fiscal forecasts, including debt estimates, in light of emerging economic, fiscal and banking data. While this process is ongoing, it is clear that the short-term prospects are somewhat weaker and this will have implications for the estimated debt ratio for 2011. These revised forecasts will be presented in the Irish Stability Programme Update which is due to be submitted to the EU Commission by the end of April in line with the terms of the new EU Semester.
84 Deputy Regina Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that borrowers who apply for interest-only options on their mortgages with State-owned banks and who fully co-operate with the mortgage arrears resolution process are being labelled with bad credit ratings through the rolled-up value of their mortgages, which is affecting future lending ability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7917/11]
The Central Bank's revised Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears states that when arrears arise on a borrower's mortgage and remain outstanding for 31 days from the date the arrears arose, a lender must inform the borrower of the impact of missed mortgage repayments and repossession on the borrower's credit rating.
Under the Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process, a lender must explore alternative repayment arrangements including an interest-only arrangement for a specified period. Where an alternative repayment arrangement is offered by the lender, the lender must provide the borrower with a clear explanation, in writing, of the alternative repayment arrangement, including how the alternative repayment arrangement will be reported by the lender to the Irish Credit Bureau and the impact of this on the borrower's credit rating.
In the normal course of events, if a borrower enters an interest only repayment arrangement their credit rating may not be affected; however, where there are arrears outstanding on the mortgage account, the borrower's credit rating may be affected and the borrower must be advised of this.
85 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Finance, in view of the fact that the one-parent family tax credit can be withdrawn on the basis that a person is living with another person as man and wife, if he will explain, when a person does not wish to declare themselves to be living with another person as man and wife, the criteria used by the Revenue Commissioners to make that decision on their behalf; the reason a person can be considered as a wife — or husband, in the case of a man — by the Revenue Commissioners for the purpose of withholding a one-parent family tax credit, while the same person will not be granted the status of wife or husband for the purposes of inheritance tax and other taxation matters. [7921/11]
Section 462 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 provides for an additional credit to be granted to a person who proves that they have a qualifying child residing with them for the whole or part of the tax year.
A qualifying child is a child who is
under 18 years old at the beginning of the tax year, or
if over 18 years old at that time, in full-time education (including an apprenticeship), or
permanently incapacitated by reason of mental or physical infirmity and became incapacitated before the age of 21 or while in full-time education, and who is either the child of the person or is in the care of and maintained by the person at his or her expense for all or part of the tax year.
The credit is designed to recognise the special circumstances and additional costs involved in a lone parent situation. For this reason the additional credit is not available to spouses who are residing together or to a man and woman living together as man and wife.
Where a dispute arises as to whether a person is entitled to the credit, Revenue staff examine the case based on the facts and information available to them. Where a taxpayer is dissatisfied with a Revenue decision he or she can appeal in the first instance to the Appeal Commissioners and then to the courts.
In addition to a person's statutory rights of appeal, every person has a right to seek a review of Revenue's handling of his or her tax affairs, or of decisions made by a Revenue official. This review can be carried out under one of the following procedures, at the taxpayer's choice:
(a) local review by the appropriate District Manager or Regional Assistant Secretary,
(b) by Revenue’s Internal Reviewer alone, or
(c) jointly by Revenue’s Internal Reviewer and an External Reviewer.
Further details are set out in Statement of Practice — Revenue Internal Review Procedures (SP-GEN/2/99 (Revised January 2005)).
Inheritance law has its basis in the Succession Act 1965, and tax law concerning inheritance, as contained in the Capital Acquisitions Tax Consolidated Act 2003, follows these general law principles as regards determining the status of relationships. Therefore, the relationship between a couple who are not married, although living together as man and wife, is not recognised for the purposes of the higher exemption thresholds that might be granted to married persons when calculating inheritance tax.
Finally, with regard to other Revenue matters concerning cohabiting couples, sections 1017 to 1019, inclusive, of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 deal with the joint assessment of married couples for a tax year. Persons assessed to tax under these provisions are entitled to married person's tax treatment. Before the tax year 2011, these provisions only applied to married couples. For the tax year 2011 and future tax years joint assessment treatment will be extended to civil partners (within the meaning of the Civil Partnership and Certain Rights and Obligations of Cohabitants Act 2010). The legislation to provide for this extension is currently being prepared.
All other persons are assessed for tax as single persons in accordance with section 1016 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997.
86 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance, further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 176 of 30 March 2010 and 67 of 14 October 2010, the position regarding a flood defence wall (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7941/11]
The Office of Public Works is currently evaluating an application from Fingal County Council for funding under the Minor Flood Relief Scheme for coastal protection works at the location referred to by the Deputy.
The evaluation will have regard to the Major Flood Risk Assessment and Management Study for the Fingal — East Meath Catchment area (FEM CFRAM), which is nearing completion. It is important that any approved works for the location concerned are compatible with the findings of the study.
It is hoped to complete the evaluation process in the near future, having due regard to the overall availability of resources.
87 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of students who will graduate as podiatrists in the current year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7808/11]
No students are scheduled to graduate as podiatrists in the current year. The National University of Ireland, Galway established a four-year BSc Honours course in Podiatry in 2008. This is the only Podiatry course available in Ireland at third level. The first intake of students to the course is due to graduate in 2012. The course intake is limited to a maximum of 25 students per annum.
88 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has received the health and safety concerns raised in a report supplied to him from a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; if he will consider providing funding for essential works to this school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7816/11]
I can confirm that the school submitted an application for the works referred to by the Deputy under the 2011 Summer Works Scheme. Unfortunately, due to the scale of demand for funding under the scheme, it was not possible to grant aid all applications. As outlined in the Circular governing the operation of the scheme, applications for works in the higher categories of eligible works were prioritised and it was not possible to include the school referred to by the Deputy in the list of 453 successful schools that was announced on 30 March 2011. A letter to this effect has issued to the school.
In the meantime, for works that are of a very urgent nature, it is open to the school authorities to consider if the works in question qualify for funding under the Department's Emergency Works Scheme. An emergency is deemed to be a situation which poses an immediate risk to health, life, property or the environment which is sudden, unforeseen and requires immediate action and, in the case of a school, if not corrected would prevent the school or part thereof from opening. Details of the Scheme, together with an application form for grant assistance, can be accessed on the Department's website at www.education.ie.
89 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has any policy in regard to special needs assistants; if he will introduce a panel for SNAs who are fully qualified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7817/11]
The qualifying criteria for the allocation of Special Needs Assistant (SNA) support is outlined in my Department's Circular 07/02. In addition, procedures for the appointment of SNAs and details of qualifications for SNAs are set out in Departmental Circulars 05/2001 and SNA 03/2003.
It is important to note that SNA allocations are not permanent, as the level of SNA support allocated to a school may be increased or decreased as pupils who qualify for SNA support enrol or leave a school. They are also decreased where a child's care needs may have diminished over time. There are no plans to introduce a panel for SNA's.
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) for allocating resource teachers and SNAs to schools to support children with special educational needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support, which now includes a requirement for the NCSE to have regard to an overall cap on the number of SNA posts.
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. For example, there were 10,543 WTE SNA posts in place at the end of 2010 and 10,342 at end 2009.
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 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 SNA 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.
90 Deputy Ann Phelan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will continue the decision of the last Administration to amalgamate vocational education committees. [7823/11]
I have recently extended an invitation to the Irish Vocational Education Association (IVEA), given their concerns about the current proposals for VEC aggregation, to submit alternative proposals for my consideration. The IVEA has indicated that it will respond later this month and I will be considering its proposals in the coming period.
While I am open to proposals on alternative configurations, I am anxious to ensure that swift progress continues to be made in the work of bringing about a reduction in the number of VECs.
91 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills the construction projects that are planned by him for the next five years; and if he will provide the list of same and the stage they have reached and the expected time line regarding the different projects going to construction. [7833/11]
My Department's most recent projections indicate that enrolments at post-primary level will rise from current levels of circa 312,200 pupils to about 336,600 pupils by the year 2017 and at primary level enrolments are expected to increase from the current total enrolment of circa 505,600 pupils to an expected enrolment circa 567,300 pupils by the year 2017. It is within this context that the Forward Planning Section of my Department is finalising its analysis of all areas in the country in order to determine the level of additional school provision which will be required at both primary and post primary level up to 2017.
The 2011 school building work programme, which was announced in January, is outlined on my Department's website at www.education.ie. In addition, the current status of all projects on the school building programme is published on my Department’s website and this programme will be regularly updated throughout the year.
92 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of primary schools in County Laois that have less than 50 pupils; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7834/11]
The most recent data available refers to the last complete school year 2009/10.
A full list of primary schools, including those in County Laois with their enrolments can be found on my Department's website www.education.ie.
93 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will investigate the unfinished school building infrastructure at a school (details supplied). [7848/11]
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers has applied to my Department for major capital funding for an extension.
In accordance with the published criteria for large scale building projects, the project for this school has been assessed and assigned a Band 2 rating. Information in respect of the current school building programme along with all assessed applications for major capital works, including 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, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
In the meantime, the Department has approved grants under the Summer Works Scheme and the Contingency Fund to assist the school in maintaining the fabric of the existing school building.
94 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has received correspondence from FÁS on the subject of a European globalisation fund mobility allowance for an organisation (details supplied); and if he will advise if he is prepared for eligible workers to avail of these allowances. [7854/11]
FÁS has been designated to manage the European globalisation fund as it applies to former DELL and related workers in Limerick. The question of mobility allowances and their application to these workers is an operational one for FÁS.
95 Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for Education and Skills if, in the interests of road and pedestrian safety, he will approve an application for emergency funding to carry out essential works to make urgent safety improvement works for safe access and egress from the regional road to a school (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7856/11]
An application was made under the 2011 Summer Works Scheme by the school in question for a new drop off area at the school entrance. Unfortunately, due to the scale of demand for funding under the scheme, it was not possible to grant aid all applications. As outlined in the Circular governing the operation of the scheme, applications for works in the higher categories were prioritised. The Department of Education and Skills prioritised applications from schools for Summer Works that were either mechanical, gas or electric in nature.
96 Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the reimbursement of fees and charges incurred as part of the process of identifying and acquiring a site for the proposed amalgamated primary school at a location (details supplied) in County Cork. [7866/11]
In 2002, agreement was reached to amalgamate the two primary schools referred to by the Deputy. The application for capital funding to facilitate this amalgamation was assessed and assigned a band rating of 1.4. The school authority engaged the services of a consultant to provide input into their proposals for a new greenfield site for the amalgamated school. However at no time did the Department undertake to meet the costs associated with same. In 2010 my Department approached County Cork Vocational Education Committee seeking their assistance towards identifying a suitable site for this proposed amalgamation. The acquisition of the site and the delivery of the school building project will be considered in the context of the capital budget available to my Department for school buildings generally.
97 Deputy Mary Mitchell O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will investigate the excess profit margins made by publishers here on school books in view of the fact that many publishers are cutting costs by printing school text books in China and other low cost countries and in view of the fact that his Department is paying for these books through funding assistance provided to schools. [7880/11]
102 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the cost of school books (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7920/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 97 and 102 together.
The cost of school text books is determined on a commercial basis by the educational publishers who commission them. My Department has no role in the production and publication of school text books. Accordingly, I am not in a position to speculate on the profit margins to which the Deputies refer. I am pleased to inform the Deputies 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 are 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.
98 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Education and Skills the attendance records of the members of the FETAC council at their council meetings over the past four years; the fees, remuneration, and expenses received by each member of the council for each of the past four years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7888/11]
FETAC Council members do not receive any fees or remuneration for their service. Records in relation to attendance at FETAC council meetings and expenses received by Council members are not recorded at my Department. I have asked officials at my Department to request this information from FETAC and it will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
99 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to improve the administration of all third level grants; his further plans to create a uniform system to coordinate all third level grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7889/11]
I am glad to be able to inform the Deputy that students can look forward to several significant improvements to the student grant schemes starting from 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.
I am also moving ahead with plans to introduce a single grant awarding authority from 2012. In this regard, following the recommendation of an independent Selection Panel, I intend to designate the City of Dublin VEC as the single grant awarding body following agreement with my Department of an implementation plan. The centralised body will operate on a transitional basis accepting all new applications from the 2012/13 academic year. The existing grant awarding authorities will continue to process grant renewals for their grant holders.
In tandem with these developments, my Department will continue to roll out the grants online application system and the payment of grants to students by EFT. In addition, commensurate with the provisions of the Student Support Act, an independent Appeals Board will also be established.
All of these developments will provide for fundamental reform of the student grants system and represent a concrete development in meeting the objectives set out in the action plan for the education sector on the Croke Park Agreement.
100 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Education and Skills if the new whole school evaluation MLL model at second level is being used to evaluate the effectiveness of the steps schools are taking to prevent and respond to each case of racist bullying and homophobic bullying and if so, the number of schools that will be evaluated for each of these issues in each the school years 2010-11 and 2011-12. [7897/11]
In the Whole-School Evaluation — Management, Leadership and Learning (WSE-MLL) process at second level, inspectors examine a range of policies within the school plan. When reviewing anti-bullying policies and procedures, inspectors focus on the extent to which specific measures are included to prevent and respond to various forms of bullying such as racist and homophobic behaviour, within the framework of the school's overall code of behaviour required under the Education (Welfare) Act 2000.
In reviewing a school's curriculum and timetable within WSE-MLL, inspectors examine provision for Social Personal and Health Education (SPHE) which is a compulsory subject in the junior cycle of post-primary schools and which includes content on the issue of bullying.
Meetings with parent representatives and students during WSE-MLL allow opportunities to hear their opinions on school matters which impact directly on them and which may include the issue of bullying. In addition, questionnaires are distributed to large samples of students and parents, typically to all second-year and fifth-year students and their parents. Respondents to these questionnaires are asked specifically about their level of satisfaction with the manner in which bullying is dealt with in the school. Where responses indicate that students and/or parents do not believe that bullying is dealt with effectively, inspectors raise this issue with school management who have ultimate responsibility for anti-bullying policy and procedure.
The Inspectorate plans to conduct approximately 100 whole-school type evaluations in post-primary schools during the calendar year 2011, most of which will be WSE-MLL evaluations. It is expected that a similar number will be conducted in 2012.
101 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application for a student maintenance grant in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7916/11]
The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the relevant grant awarding authority i.e. the applicant's local authority or VEC.
The grant awarding authority in question has advised my Department that an application for a grant from the student to which the Deputy refers was unsuccessful. It is open to the student to appeal this decision to the grant awarding authority.
Where a grant awarding authority decides to reject such an appeal, the applicant may appeal this decision to my Department by submitting an appeal form clearly outlining the grounds for the appeal. No appeal has been received by my Department in this case to date.
103 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the guidance he will provide to schools participating in the value for money review; the criteria under which they are being assessed; if he has received an application from a school (details supplied); if he has issued any opinion on the submission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7929/11]
As the Deputy will be aware, this review was initiated in October 2010 by the then Fianna Fáil/Green Party Government 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 terms of reference for the Steering Committee are published on my Department's website and accessed through the Featured Links on the home page.
It is not for schools to make applications as part of the review process. Rather, the invitation to the consultation process (published on my Department's website) contained guidance points for themes to cover in making submissions. In excess of 1,000 responses were received and these are currently being sorted and acknowledged. The Deputy will appreciate that in the context of this volume of submissions it is not feasible to respond substantively to each individual submission. However, all submissions will be read and their content will be considered when forming the recommendations of the review.
The terms of reference of the review are generic in nature and are relevant generally to all small primary schools with less than 50 pupils rather than individual schools. 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 conclusions when it is finalised.
104 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; the degree to which the full extent of the accommodation has been determined; the current stage of the development plan; if it will be possible to proceed with the project at an early date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7951/11]
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers has made an application to my Department for large scale funding for an extension. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale capital projects and assigned a band 2 rating.
Information in respect of the current school building programme, along with assessed applications for major capital works, including the project referred to by the Deputy, is available on my Department's website at www.education.ie. The progression of all large scale building projects, including a project for this school, from initial design through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department’s multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
However, in the light of current competing demands on the capital budget of my Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of this projects at this time.
105 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of students who study mathematics at a higher level but choose to opt for a lower level paper when sitting the Leaving Certificate examination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7957/11]
All candidates in the Leaving Certificate examination have the option of changing levels at anytime, up to and including the day of the examination. In all subjects the numbers who enter for examinations and the numbers who finally sit those examinations are different. The same is true for the three levels at which Mathematics are offered — Higher, Ordinary and Foundation. The figures for Mathematics in the Leaving Certificate 2010 are as follows:
Subject—Mathematics Higher Level, Number of entries = 10,516, Number of sits = 8,390;
Subject—Mathematics Ordinary Level, Number of entries = 40,093, Number of sits = 37,903;
Subject—Mathematics Foundation Level, Number of entries = 2,950, Number of sits = 5,997.
It will be seen, therefore, that some 20% of students who applied to sit mathematics at Higher Level in the Leaving Certificate in 2010 actually sat the examination at a lower level.
A major programme of reform in mathematics is under way in all second level schools since September last, building on the experience of 24 schools which began the programme in 2008. Project Maths is designed to encourage better understanding of mathematics, to reinforce its practical relevance to everyday life, and to ensure better curriculum continuity across the system. A key objective is to improve attainment levels in maths and to encourage more students to take the subject at higher level. The programme is supported by a comprehensive investment in professional development for teachers which will run to at least 2013. The initial experience in the 24 Project schools where students sat the Leaving Certificate in 2010 indicated a modest increase in the proportion who sat the subject at Higher Level — 18.7%, compared with 16.0% nationally.
Higher education institutions have collectively agreed to operate a bonus points scheme for Higher Level Mathematics for a four year trial period from 2012 to 2015 inclusive, with a review in 2014. A bonus of 25 points will be allocated to students who achieve a grade D3 or above in LC Higher Level mathematics. This pilot scheme has been specifically designed with the objective of maximising the numbers of Leaving Cert students who study for and sit the Higher Level maths examinations, and in particular of reducing the numbers of students who might drop down from Higher to Ordinary Level during the senior cycle.
Taken together, these initiatives are an important part of the strategy to upgrade skills in mathematics in order to better meet the needs of the Smart economy.
106 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, concerning the Revised European Social Charter for each year from 2002 to 2011 inclusive, the date on which the national report by Ireland under the annual reporting procedure was due to have been submitted; the date on which each report was actually submitted; the reasons for any late submissions; and the steps he will take to ensure that no report due while he is Minister is submitted after the due date. [7894/11]
107 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, concerning the provisions of the Revised European Social Charter, which the State has accepted, the reports in which the State has been found not to be in compliance; for each of these, whether the law, policy or practice that gave rise to the finding of non-compliance has been amended to ensure compliance; and if not, when this will happen. [7895/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 106 and 107 together.
The Revised European Social Charter of the Council of Europe of 1996 came into force on 1 July 1999. Ireland signed and ratified the Revised Charter on 4 November 2000. The human rights treaty comprises 31 Articles which updates and completes the rights protected in the original European Social Charter of 1961 in areas such as employment, social protection, non-discrimination, education and health.
The specific information that the Deputy has requested in respect of the national reports submitted by Ireland in the years 2002 to 2011 is included at Table 1.
In preparing Reports, my Department has to consult with a number of Government Departments in relation to their areas of substantive responsibility to seek information on any relevant legislative and/or administrative changes that have taken place which impact on our implementation of the Revised Social Charter and, on measures taken, where applicable, to bring the situation into conformity with the Charter. Given the range of issues to be covered and the number of Departments to be consulted, this can be a very time consuming and resource intensive process. Having regard to other pressing demands on scarce resources, my Department expects to complete the Eighth Report, outstanding since October 2010, within the next 6-8 weeks depending on when material is received from Departments and agencies.
At the time of signature and ratification of the Revised Charter, Ireland was in a position to implement almost all of the provisions of the Revised Charter, with the exception of certain elements imposed under Articles 8, 21, 27, and Article 31. In respect of all remaining Articles, and in the context of detailed examination of our national reports over a period of more than 40 years, Ireland has been found to be in non-conformity with a certain number of specific aspects of the provisions of individual Articles of the original and revised Charter. In this regard, in completing its national implementation reports in intervening periods since the issue of finding of non-conformity, Ireland has provided information on the developments, if any, in the intervening period including on measures it has taken to bring a situation into conformity with the Charter and/or explained the reasons for our non-conformity. The specific issues for which we remain in non-conformity are several, wide-ranging and diverse and it would not be possible in this reply to provide the Deputy with the full extent of issues arising and Ireland's response in each case. I would, however be happy to provide this information to the Deputy separately in follow-up correspondence.
In recognising the importance of the Council of Europe in its standard setting activities through implementation of the obligations that arise across a range of diverse areas under the Articles of the Revised European Social Charter, it must be recognised, of course, that Ireland already has an extensive legal framework in place in the area of protection of employment rights and fully meets its obligations under the requirements of EU legal instruments in this regard and is in compliance also with other international labour instruments, including those of the International Labour Organisation.
|
Revised European Social Charter (1996) |
Revised Charter Provisions covered in the Report |
Date on which the Report was due |
Date of Final Submission to the Council of Europe |
|
1st Report |
The core or more important Articles of the Revised Charter, viz. Articles 1, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 16, 19 and 20. |
30th June 2003 |
Ireland submitted a report in several parts between 19 November 2003 and 29 April 2004. |
|
2nd Report |
All the non-core provisions of the Charter, which had been accepted by Ireland viz. Articles 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21-30a total of 21 Articles in all. |
30th June 2004 |
Ireland submitted its second report under the Revised Charter in a series of instalments between 27 May 2005 and 1 April 2009. |
|
3rd Report |
An update on our first report on the nine core provisions of the Revised Charter viz. Articles 1, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 16, 19 and 20. |
30th June 2005 |
Ireland submitted its third report under the Revised Charter in a series of instalments between 15 November 2005 and 25 April 2006. |
|
4th Report |
The following non-core provisions of the Revised Charter, Article 1, Paragraph 4, Articles 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 15, 21, 22, 24, 26, 28 and 29 |
30th June 2006 |
Ireland submitted its fourth report under the Revised Charter on 1 April 2009 (together with our second report). |
|
5th Report |
The following (both core and non-core) provisions of the Revised Charter — Articles 1, 9, 10, 15, 18, 24 and 25 |
31st October 2007 |
Ireland submitted its fifth report under the Revised Charter on 23 May 2009 |
|
6th Report |
The following (both core and non-core) provisions of the Revised Charter — Articles 3, 11, 12, 13, 14, 23 and 30. |
31st October 2008 |
Ireland submitted its sixth report under the Revised Charter on 25 September 2009. |
|
7th Report |
The following (both core and non-core) provisions of the Revised Charter — Articles 2, 4, 5, 6, 21, 22, 26, 28 and 29. |
31st October 2009 |
Ireland submitted its seventh report under the Revised Charter in a series of instalments between 11 October 2010 and 8 December 2010. |
|
8th Report |
The following (both core and non-core) provisions of the Revised Charter — Articles 7, 8, 16, 17, 19 and 27 |
31st October 2010 |
Ireland has yet to submit its eighth report under the Revised Charter but work is ongoing to complete this report. |
|
9th Report |
The following (both core and non-core) provisions of the Revised Charter — Articles 1, 9, 10, 15, 18, 20, 24 and 25. |
31st October 2011 |
As above. |
108 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the names of all of the cases in the European Court of Human Rights that give rise to the commitment in the programme for Government to reform the law on the right to collective bargaining; the issue in each case that gives rise to such a concern and the details of the relevant legislation, including where current legislation is in breach, the name of the Act and the number of the section or sections concerned. [7891/11]
In the so-called "Wilson" judgment, (Wilson, National Union of Journalists and Others v. United Kingdom [2002] ECHR 552) the European Court of Human Rights Court found in favour of a UK-based journalist and a group of British dockworkers, who were denied pay increases after they refused to sign personal contracts. Their unions had appealed a UK law courts decision on the issue.
The ECHR judgment found that under United Kingdom law at the relevant time it was possible for an employer effectively to undermine or frustrate a trade union's ability to strive for the protection of its members' interests. Accordingly, the ECHR concluded that, by permitting employers to use financial incentives to induce employees to surrender important trade union rights, the UK had failed in its positive obligation to secure the enjoyment of the rights under the European Convention for the Protection of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms.
In Ireland Section 8 of the Industrial Relations Act 2004 provides for a prohibition on victimisation of an employee by his employer on account of him being or not being a member of a trade union or engaging or not engaging in trade union activity. ‘Victimisation' is defined as any act, of commission or omission, which adversely affects the interests of the employee or his wellbeing. The prohibition applies where the mechanisms provided under the Industrial Relations Acts 2001 to 2004 to deal with situations where an employer does not engage in collective bargaining have been invoked.
There is a commitment in the Programme for Government to ensure that Irish law on employees' right to engage in collective bargaining is consistent with recent judgements of the European Court of Human Rights. This process will require consultation with stakeholders and a review of the experience of the operation of the existing legislative framework as put in place under the Industrial Relations Acts of 2001 and 2004 and the consequences of the litigation that has arisen in the course of the operation of these Acts.
109 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if any legislation on the rights of workers needs to be amended to ensure that the rights contained in the Lisbon treaty and in the European Union Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union are fully reflected in Irish law; if so, which provisions of the treaty or the charter give rise to such a need and which Acts of the Oireachtas need to be amended. [7892/11]
The Lisbon Treaty recognises and underpins the positive developments in employment rights protection. Under the Treaty, fundamental rights are recognised through the incorporation of a legally binding reference to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. This includes the right to negotiate collective agreements and to take collective action, the right to information and consultation within undertakings, the right of access to free placement services and protection against unjustified dismissals.
Ireland already has an extensive legal framework for collective bargaining and the protection of employment rights. In addition, statutory mechanisms have been put in place to ensure the protection of employee rights in the absence of arrangements for voluntary collective bargaining. Among the rights which underpin the legal structure in Ireland is the right to form and join trade unions which also features in article 12 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. The Charter does not, however, require an employer to recognise a trade union. Neither the ratification of the Lisbon Treaty nor the application of the Charter of Fundamental Rights, in circumstances where Member States are implementing Union law, require a revision of the existing legislative provision in Ireland on employment rights.
110 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons that received support from farm assist in 2010 by county; the total cost of the scheme in 2010 and for the first quarter of 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7933/11]
The following table shows the number of recipients of farm assist by county at the end of 2010.
The cost of the scheme was just under €111 million in 2010 and almost €28 million in the first quarter of 2011.
|
County |
Number of Recipients |
|
Carlow |
102 |
|
Cavan |
401 |
|
Clare |
637 |
|
Cork |
917 |
|
Donegal |
1,389 |
|
Dublin |
11 |
|
Galway |
1,133 |
|
Kerry |
742 |
|
Kildare |
56 |
|
Kilkenny |
173 |
|
Laois |
149 |
|
Leitrim |
331 |
|
Limerick |
265 |
|
Longford |
176 |
|
Louth |
81 |
|
Mayo |
1,684 |
|
Meath |
90 |
|
Monaghan |
516 |
|
Offaly |
127 |
|
Roscommon |
407 |
|
Sligo |
478 |
|
Tipperary |
350 |
|
Waterford |
84 |
|
Westmeath |
134 |
|
Wexford |
202 |
|
Wicklow |
79 |
|
Total |
10,714 |
111 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will be taking on full responsibility for special community employment schemes and, if so, the commencement date of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7805/11]
From 1st January 2011 policy and funding responsibility for FÁS functions in relation to employment and community employment services was transferred to this Department in accordance with the provisions of the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2010. The FÁS schemes involved include the community employment programme. FÁS remains responsible for the day to day operation of community employment in accordance with the terms of a Service Agreement/Framework Document which it has concluded with the Department.
A number of special community employment projects operate under the National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016. As part of the Strategy, FÁS is committed to providing 1,000 places on such projects as part of the overall funding for the community employment programme. The primary objective of the Strategy is to continue to tackle the harm caused to individuals and society by the misuse of drugs. It is my intention to ensure the continuation of such projects subject to the overall budgetary constraints for the community employment programme
113 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Social Protection when an appeal for domiciliary care scheme payment will be decided in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7809/11]
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing in this case. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
114 Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Social Protection when an appeal will be heard in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Offaly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7826/11]
Payment of illness benefit, to the person concerned, was disallowed by a Deciding Officer following an examination by a Medical Assessor of the Department who expressed the opinion that she was capable of work.
An appeal was registered on 15 March 2011 and the Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that, in accordance with statutory requirements, the Department was asked for the documentation in the case and the Deciding Officer's comments on the grounds of the appeal. In that context, an examination by another Medical Assessor will be carried out. The person concerned will be notified when arrangements for the examination have been completed.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
115 Deputy Paul J. Connaughton asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding a jobseeker’s allowance application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7869/11]
The person concerned applied for jobseeker's allowance on 12 February 2011. His file has been forwarded to a Social Welfare Inspector for examination. On completion of inquiries a decision will be made as soon as possible and he will be notified of the outcome.
117 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons currently participating in the Tús scheme. [7877/11]
The Minister for Finance announced the introduction of a community work placement initiative for up to 5,000 persons in his Budget statement to Dáil Éireann on the 7th December 2010. The initiative, known as Tús, was launched on the 21st December 2010 and work on developing the necessary implementation structures has been under way since then. The aim of Tús is to provide short-term, quality work opportunities for those who are unemployed for more than a year. Tús will be delivered at local level by each of the 53 local development companies and by Údarás na Gaeltachta. Promotion of Tús to potential work placement providers has been under way for some weeks as part of a process of identifying suitable work placements and local development companies are currently recruiting supervisory staff. The random selection of participants by the Department will commence shortly once the necessary arrangements have been put in place by the local development companies.
118 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Social Protection if the free TV licence scheme will continue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7890/11]
Under the National Recovery Plan 2011-2014, funding for the TV licence scheme is frozen at 2010 levels of expenditure for the duration of the plan. This decision has no impact on those benefiting from the scheme who will continue to receive a free TV licence. The cost of the free TV licence scheme, administered under the household benefit package, was €59.2 million in 2010 and the provision for 2011 is the same.
The current number of eligible customers for the free TV licence scheme is 396,850.
The household benefits package, which comprises the electricity/gas allowance, telephone allowance and free TV licence, is available to people living permanently in the State who satisfy specific qualifying criteria.
The package is payable to all customers in receipt of carer's allowance and persons aged over 70 years. It is available to customers under the age of 70 in receipt of qualifying payments from this Department or an equivalent payment from a country covered by EU regulation or bilateral social security agreement and who live with certain categories of persons. Customers aged between 66 and 69 years who do not satisfy the criteria may qualify under a means test.
For most people television is an essential support in preventing social isolation; it is the principle medium for information and entertainment. The advantage of the TV licence scheme is that it takes care of a large annual non-discretionary bill for a group who may find it difficult to budget.
Payment for the scheme is made by this Department to the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. Payments are made on a monthly basis using an agreed formula based on a percentage of the Department's customer base. I have no plans to change the scheme at this time.
119 Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on stay-at-home parents who wish to return to work after 20 years being disqualified from going on the live register and subsequently being disqualified from back-to-work and education schemes; her further views on whether not allowing such persons to sign on the live register gives an incorrect reflection of the real unemployment figures; her plans to allow such persons to sign on the live register or make these schemes more accessible to stay-at-home parents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7931/11]
A person is entitled to make an application for jobseeker's allowance in circumstances similar to those outlined in the Deputy's question. Jobseeker's allowance is a means-tested payment. If the person satisfies the means test and other criteria such as being available for and genuinely seeking work, she may qualify for payment. The Live Register includes applicants for credited contributions. If an unemployed person does not qualify for a payment, he or she may be entitled to credited contributions, if he or she has previously worked and paid PRSI. If there has been a break of contributions paid or credited for two full consecutive tax years, the person cannot get credits until he or she returns to work and pays PRSI contributions for at least 26 weeks.
The Live Register is not designed to measure unemployment. It includes part-time workers, seasonal and casual workers entitled to jobseeker's benefit or allowance. Unemployment is measured by the Quarterly National Household Survey conducted by the CSO. The Department of Social Protection operates a range of employment support measures that are designed to encourage and support social welfare recipients of working age to reduce their dependency on welfare payments. These measures assist unemployed people, particularly the long-term unemployed, lone parents and sickness related welfare recipients, to return to the active labour market either by taking up employment or becoming self-employed. This is done through a number of schemes, including the back to education allowance, back to work enterprise allowance, short term enterprise allowance and the employer job incentive scheme. In addition, the activation and family support programme offers support to social welfare customers and other disadvantaged people to help them to improve their employability.
120 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Social Protection the longest waiting times for social welfare appeals against refusals under the various schemes which were concluded in 2009, 2010 and to date in 2011. [7932/11]
I have been informed by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that no figures are readily available for the longest waiting times. The overall average waiting time for an appeal dealt with by way of a summary decision in 2010 was 27.4 weeks — it was 24 weeks in 2009 — while the average time to process an oral hearing was 45.6 weeks, or 35 weeks in 2009. These processing times are calculated from the registration date of the appeal to the date of its finalisation. They include all activities during this period including time spent in the Department for comments by the deciding officer on the grounds of appeal put forward by the appellant and any further investigation, examination or assessment by the Department's inspectors and medical assessors that is deemed necessary. As can be seen from the figures, a considerable period of time is added to the process when an oral hearing is required because of the logistics involved in this process. In order to be fair to all appellants, these appeals are dealt with in strict chronological order.
There has been a significant increase in the number of appeals received by the Social Welfare Appeals Office since 2007, when the intake was 14,070. By 2010, the intake had increased to 32,432. In the context of dealing with the considerable number of appeals now on hand, the Department has made a further nine additional appointments to the office in recent weeks. I am assured by the Chief Appeals Officer that she is keeping current processes under continuous review with a view to achieving a more effective throughput of appeals, while ensuring progress does not conflict with due process in terms of the rights of appellants and adherence to the requirements of natural justice.
121 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an appeal for carer’s allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7950/11]
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an appeals officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing in this case. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
122 Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he is in any negotiations with regard to the exploration or drilling of oil off the south east coast; if any agreements or contracts have been made with oil-drilling companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7857/11]
Seven standard exploration licences and five licensing options are active off the east and south coasts of Ireland. Exploration activities under these authorisations are ongoing and subject to the performance of agreed work programmes including detailed reporting and the release of exploration data and evaluation reports to my Department. In relation to exploration drilling, my Department is aware that plans are being advanced for exploration and appraisal drilling in the Irish offshore, although no application for drilling approval has been received to date this year. I expect that over the next few months greater certainty will emerge in relation to potential drilling in 2011.
123 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if the implementation of the commitment in the programme for Government to facilitate the development of energy co-operatives will include a specific programme to support the development of co-operatives to exploit geothermal energy sources. [7896/11]
In line with the programme for Government commitment to facilitate the development of renewable energy co-operatives for small scale renewable energy providers, I have asked my Department and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, in the context of assessing ways of encouraging microgeneration, to explore the scope for co-operative approaches. I can advise the Deputy that small-scale geothermal technologies are included in the Greener Homes Scheme currently operated by the authority.
124 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason an area (details supplied) in County Longford does not have total broadband coverage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7913/11]
The provision of broadband services is in the first instance a matter for private sector service providers operating in Ireland's fully liberalised telecommunications market. Broadband services are provided by private service providers over various platforms including DSL (over telephone lines), fixed wireless, mobile, cable, fibre and satellite. Details of broadband services available in each county can be found on the ComReg website, www.callcosts.ie. The Government will intervene in cases of market failure where it is appropriate and possible to do so. The National Broadband Scheme (NBS) represents such an intervention. EU state aid and competition rules govern how states can intervene in areas where existing service providers are operating. Accordingly, the NBS is prohibited from providing a service in served areas where to do so would give rise to an unacceptable level of market distortion. The mapping exercise undertaken by my Department at the time of designing the NBS found that broadband services were available in the area referred to in the Deputy’s question and consequently the locality was excluded from the scheme. I am pleased to say that under the NBS, broadband is now available in all Electoral Divisions in the NBS Coverage Area.
It continues to be a priority of the Government that there will be broadband coverage across the entire country. I am aware that a small percentage of premises throughout the country continues to be incapable of receiving broadband services. This is primarily due to technical and other reasons, such as suitability of a telephone line, distance from an enabled exchange and there being no line of sight. The European Commission has set aside a portion of the European Economic Recovery Programme funding for rural broadband initiatives. Using this funding, which will be augmented by an Exchequer contribution, I intend to formally launch a Rural Broadband Scheme shortly. This scheme will aim to provide a basic broadband service to individual unserved rural premises outside the NBS areas. Information in relation to acceptance of applications and the process of qualification under the scheme will be made available in due course when the scheme is launched.
125 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to potential job losses at Bord na Móna’s peat operations in Kildare and the Midlands; and if so, if he has discussed this issue or will discuss this issue with management at Bord na Móna. [7923/11]
Under the Turf Development Acts 1946 to 1998, day to day operational decisions are a matter for the Board of Bord Na Móna, and are not a function of the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.
I am advised that the planned outage until mid September 2011 of West Offaly Power will result in Bord na Móna's peat supply operations to that plant not being required during the outage with a consequent loss of revenue to Bord na Móna.
Some 150 employees are employed in the peat supply operation to West Offaly and Bord na Móna's focus is to minimise lay-offs among these employees by redeployment to other necessary work. Bord na Móna has recently concluded an agreement with the Group of Unions with regard to a work plan for the duration of the outage.
126 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the possible transfer of certain Bord na Móna operations out of the State and, if so, if he has met with management or will meet with management on this issue. [7925/11]
Under the Turf Development Acts 1946 to 1998, day to day operational decisions are a matter for the Board of Bord Na Móna, and are not a function of the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. I am advised that, in line with its New Contract with Nature Strategy, Bord na Móna is continuing the process of diversifying its activities in order to secure a sustainable future, which will underpin employment in Ireland. A core element of this strategy includes the development of Bord na Móna's export markets, which may require some local presence in key markets to support export growth, as opposed to the transfer of operations from Ireland.
127 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of money each local authority collected in commercial water charges in 2010; and the total that remain outstanding on water bills for that year. [7804/11]
The information requested is not yet available in my Department. Local authorities are required to publish their 2010 annual financial statements by 1 July 2011, and audited annual financial statements for 2010 will be available by 31 March 2012.
128 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will direct the Office of Public Works and Coillte to put in place fire boundaries, cleared strips of land of six metres in width in Sliabh Bloom in order to prevent the spread of gorse and forest fires; the steps he will take to prevent forest fires from spreading in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7813/11]
I understand a Working Group on Land and Forest Fires, established by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food reported earlier in 2011 and made 10 recommendations on tackling gorse and forest fires. The Group included representatives from a broad spectrum of interested stakeholders, including farmers, the forest industry, the Fire Service, An Garda Síochána, the Defence Forces, Coillte, Teagasc and the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Uncontrolled burning of vegetation poses a serious risk to the lives and livelihoods of farmers and forest owners throughout the country. Also, Section 40 of the Wildlife Act 1976, as amended by Section 46 of the Wildlife Amendment Act, 2000, provides protection for vegetation on uncultivated land such as hedgerows by providing that "it shall be an offence for a person to cut, grub, burn or otherwise destroy, during the period beginning on the 1st day of March and ending on the 31st day of August in any year, any vegetation growing on any land not then cultivated or in course of cultivation for agriculture or forestry".
The purposes of these provisions include prevention of forest fires, protection of bird life during the nesting season and protection of vegetation and wildlife habitats during the months of growth and reproduction.
In order to ensure that fire service personnel are not placed at unnecessary risk during a forest fire call-out, one of the working group's recommendations was for forest owners properly to maintain fire breaks within their forests and to further make sure that potentially inflammable undergrowth is kept under control in line with their individual Fire Plans. While I support these measures, as part of an integrated multi-agency response to the threat posed by forest fires, I do not have any powers, nor would it be appropriate for me, to direct Coillte or the Office of Public Works to undertake the works envisaged. However, I encourage all State bodies to be vigilant against the spread of forest and gorse fires as the response to such incidents is resource intensive and also detrimental to wildlife interests.
129 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the legal obligations landlords are under to ensure the outward appearance of their properties are maintained. [7853/11]
Minimum standards for rental accommodation are prescribed in the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2008, made under section 18 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1992. These Regulations were further amended by the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses)(Amendment) Regulations 2009 which expanded the definition of ‘a proper state of structural repair' to allow for all aspects of the internal and external appearance of a dwelling to be taken into account for the purposes of the Regulations.
All landlords have a legal obligation to ensure that their rented properties comply with these Regulations. Responsibility for enforcing the Regulations rests with the relevant local authority, supported by a dedicated stream of funding allocated by my Department. It is a matter for each individual local authority to decide the specific details of its enforcement strategy and inspection arrangements. However, in discharging their responsibilities in relation to the rental sector, authorities have been asked to have regard to the Good Practice Guidelines for Local Authorities on Standards in the Private Rented Sector: Strategic Planning, Effective Enforcement published by the Centre for Housing Research in November 2007, which make a range of recommendations on relevant issues, including targeting inspection activities.
130 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to provide funding for built heritage as provided for under section 80 of the Planning and Development Act 2000. [7883/11]
The legislative provisions for the protection of the architectural heritage are set out in Part IV of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended. Section 80 of the Act provides that the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government may make grants to planning authorities in respect of any or all of their functions under this part.
The Local Authority Conservation Grants Scheme has operated to provide assistance for the conservation of buildings protected under the provisions of Part IV of the 2000 Act. Due to a significant reduction in the budgetary allocation to the built heritage within the vote of my Department, the operation of the scheme has been suspended. My Department is providing limited funding through a "Structures at Risk Fund" in 2011, to assist with works to safeguard structures protected under the 2000 Act. Details of the operation of the fund have recently been issued to each local authority.
The Department proposes to undertake a review of the operation of Part IV of the Planning and Development Act 2000. This review will include an examination of the funding provided towards the conservation and protection of the architectural heritage.
131 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to introduce legislation to ensure that rezoning proposals are decided on their merits alone and that agreements and contacts between developers and local community bodies to provide community facilities dependent on rezoning being approved will be made illegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7898/11]
Decisions regarding the zoning of land are a reserved function of local authority elected members under the statutory development plan and local area plan processes. In accordance with Part II of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, the members of a planning authority are restricted to considering the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in question when making, reviewing or varying a development plan or making, amending or revoking a local area plan.
My Department's Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Development Plans (2007) clearly state that, in setting objectives for the zoning of land, an appropriate balance needs to be struck between:
making sure that enough land is zoned to meet the anticipated economic and social development needs and to allow for an element of choice over the plan period and for a reasonable period beyond (e.g. 3 years), and
avoiding the zoning of too much land, thereby creating a situation where priorities for development are not clear and where as a result it is difficult to secure an orderly and progressive approach to the development of that area, particularly in the provision of essential infrastructure and services.
Under Part III of Schedule I of the Planning Acts, development plans may also include specific objectives in relation to facilitating the provision and siting of services and facilities necessary for the community, including, inter alia, health care, cultural, community, recreational and amenity facilities.
As a statutory consultee on draft development plans and draft local area plans, my Department provides constructive comments and advice to planning authorities in respect of policies set down in these plans, including where appropriate advice regarding the scale and location of lands proposed for zoning.
Moreover, the 2010 Planning and Development (Amendment) Act introduced a number of reforms to the development plan process to provide for greater consistency of plans at regional, city/county and local levels, to require a core strategy to be incorporated into development plans and to reinforce the practice of developing evidence-based policy objectives into future development plans. These new provisions are currently being reflected and implemented in new development plans and variations to existing plans.
132 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the prospect of addressing the housing list in Dublin City Council’s Area B in view of the 1,400 to 1,500 empty housing units in the North Fringe district; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7900/11]
Housing authorities have scope to include an acquisitions programme within their Social Housing Investment Programme, which receives capital funding from my Department. The number of acquisitions in any particular area will depend on the total funding available to the authority and the priority it applies to the acquisition of new and second-hand units relative to other projects within its programme. Additional housing units are supplied through the leasing of suitable properties, including in the context of the Rental Accommodation Scheme.
During 2010, Dublin City Council acquired 168 units of accommodation under its Social Housing Investment Programme, consisting of a mixture of apartments and houses. The Council has been allocated over €100 million in 2011 under the capital investment programme, including Ballymun Regeneration.
In addition, in 2010, a total of 478 units were supplied by the Council under the Rental Accommodation Scheme and 285 by way of long-term leasing. A further 550 units are due for supply in 2011. Current spending under RAS and long-term leasing will amount to over €24 million for the Council in 2011.
My Department understands that Dublin City Council is currently in the process of developing a Local Area Plan for the North Fringe that will address issues such as the remediation and completion of estates and the provision of local services.
133 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number and location of group water schemes approved or funded by him in the past 12 months; the cost of such schemes; how the priority list was determined; if the proposed scheme at a location (details supplied) in County Kildare was considered in such context; if this scheme is likely to be included in the current year in view of the availability of funds in the relevant local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7949/11]
Responsibility for the administration of the Rural Water Programme, which includes group water schemes, has been devolved to local authorities since 1997.
The selection and approval of individual group water schemes for advancement and funding under the programme, within the overall priorities set by my Department and subject to the block grant allocation provided, is therefore a matter for the local authorities. The information requested may, therefore, be sought from the local authorities including, in the case of the particular scheme referred to, Kildare County Council.
I understand that proposals for the Ballyna Group Water Scheme may be dependent upon related investment in major public water supply infrastructure. There is no provision for such schemes for Kildare County Council in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012.
134 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will not support any attempt to fill in Dublin Bay by the Dublin Port Company. [7952/11]
Under section 30 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, I am specifically precluded from exercising any power or control in relation to any particular case with which a planning authority or An Bord Pleanála is or may be concerned.
An application for foreshore consent would be required for any such proposed development. The application would be processed in the usual manner in exercise of my statutory functions under the Foreshore Acts 1933 to 2009.
135 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding the proposed prison development on a site (details supplied) in County Cork; the proposed timeframe of same; if there are plans in place to improve conditions at Cork Prison, where slopping out is still required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7801/11]
I can assure the Deputy that this Government is committed to addressing the issue of in-cell sanitation in line with the Government Programme for National Recovery.
It is accepted that conditions at Cork Prison are less than ideal. Unfortunately, with limited resources in the present economic climate, it is likely that ambitious projects such as the development of new prison facilities at Kilworth will take longer to progress. However, the Irish Prison Service is appraising the logistical, financial, operational and other aspects of an outline proposal to provide in-cell sanitation in all cells in Cork Prison. This appraisal will be informed by the evaluation of the Mountjoy ‘C' wing in-cell sanitation project which is currently under way.
136 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding an application for naturalisation in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; if documentation supplied with the application highlighting the person’s professional need for a change in their immigration status will affect the timeframe in which the application is processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7812/11]
A valid eligible application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in March 2011.
The application is being processed in the normal way with a view to establishing whether the applicant meets the statutory conditions for the granting of naturalisation and will be submitted to me for decision in due course. While the average time from application to decision is 25 months, processing requirements and time taken to carry out necessary checks vary from case to case. However, in response to Parliamentary Question Number 71 of 7 April last, I outlined that I have initiated steps to provide for speedier processing of applications. That said, the Deputy will appreciate that the valid application in this case has only just been received.
The granting of a certificate of naturalisation is a privilege and an honour and never a right or an entitlement and all factors, including those referred to by the Deputy, will be taken into account in reaching a decision.
I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual Immigration cases may be made direct to INIS by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.
137 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7865/11]
The correspondence relates to a proposal for the introduction in Ireland of a blocking system in respect of websites containing child pornography. As the Deputy is no doubt aware, the internet is a worldwide phenomenon with no borders and no single organisation controlling it. There is, however, an existing self-regulatory framework for internet service providers (ISPs) in operation in Ireland which actively encourages the adoption of best practice procedures aimed at limiting the proliferation of illegal child pornography content online. Members of the public may report such material to the www.hotline.ie service of the Internet Service Providers’ Association of Ireland (ISPAI). If the material is hosted here and deemed to be illegal and in contravention of Irish law, ISPAI members are obliged to remove such materials. If the material is hosted in another jurisdiction, it is notified to the internet hotline in that jurisdiction and/or to the relevant law enforcement agencies for follow up, with the aim of having illegal content taken down.
At present all of the mobile phone operators in Ireland, under a voluntary agreement brokered by the European Commission with the GSM Alliance Europe, the association representing European mobile phone operators, implement a form of filtering on their mobile internet service, which prevents access to websites which have been identified as containing child pornography content.
In a number of EU Member States, a system of internet blocking/filtering has been introduced on a voluntary basis, whereby a "blocklist" of sites containing child pornography is made available by the police or other competent authorities, and is utilised by individual ISPs to prevent access to such content. A number of other Member States have introduced legislation requiring ISPs to block access to websites containing child pornography. It is generally acknowledged that all such internet blocking or filtering systems are not foolproof and can be circumvented in certain circumstances. However, such filtering systems are understood to be useful in preventing internet users from inadvertently encountering such illegal content. Of course, the key objective from a law enforcement perspective is to achieve the removal of such material from the internet at source.
The issue of the possible utilisation of blocking/filtering methodologies to prevent access to identified web pages containing child pornography is being considered further by my Department's Office for Internet Safety with advice from the Internet Safety Advisory Council. In undertaking research in this area, the Office for Internet Safety has had discussions with a variety of relevant interests in relation to the possibility of introducing internet filtering, specifically in respect of illegal child pornography content, in Ireland.
In particular, it might be noted that a draft proposal for a Directive on combating the sexual abuse, sexual exploitation of children and child pornography was published last year by the European Commission and is currently being negotiated by the EU institutions. The draft Directive contains a proposal which may require Member States to implement some form of blocking system in relation to websites containing child pornography. Ireland's participation in the adoption and implementation of this measure has been approved by the Government and the Oireachtas.
138 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will clarify the position regarding citizenship in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7867/11]
Officials in the Citizenship section of my Department inform me that there is no record of an application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's question.
The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended, provides that the Minister may, in his absolute discretion, grant an application for a certificate of naturalisation provided certain statutory conditions are fulfilled. The conditions are that the applicant must
be of full age
be of good character
have had a period of one year's continuous residency in the State immediately before the date of application and, during the eight years immediately preceding that period, have had a total residence in the State amounting to four years
have made, either before a Judge of the District Court in open court or in such a manner as the Minister for special reasons allows, a declaration in the prescribed manner, of fidelity to the nation and loyalty to the State.
In the context of naturalisation, certain periods of residence in the State are excluded. These include
periods of residence in respect of which an applicant does not have permission to remain in the State
periods granted for the purposes of study
periods granted for the purposes of seeking recognition as a refugee within the meaning of the Refugee Act, 1996.
It is open to any individual to lodge an application for citizenship if and when they are in a position to meet the statutory requirements as prescribed in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956 as amended.
I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual Immigration cases may be made direct to INIS by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.
139 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding refugee status in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7914/11]
Arising from the refusal of her asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 5th January, 2005, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of her. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why a Deportation Order should not be made against her. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned.
The position in the State of the person concerned will now be decided by reference to the provisions of Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. All representations submitted will be considered before the file is passed to me for decision. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.
I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.
140 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to amend the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956 to allow periods of residency in the Six Counties to be considered as part of reckonable residency for naturalisation purposes, in keeping with the spirit of the Good Friday Agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7946/11]
The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended, sets out the law governing citizenship of Ireland. The Act distinguishes between the right to citizenship by birth and descent and the acquisition of citizenship through the naturalisation process. The provisions of the Act have been amended with due regard to the Good Friday Agreement and I have no plans to further amend the Act.
141 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will provide medical support and expenses to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 13. [7954/11]
As the Deputy will appreciate, my Department is not responsible for the provision of medical supports and services in the community generally. Arrangements were made some time ago to respond to any outstanding counselling or medical needs arising from the Stardust fire disaster and the Stardust Victims Committee was made aware of how individuals could express an interest in availing of those arrangements.
142 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the average timeframe for the processing of naturalisation applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7955/11]
The average processing time from application to decision is now at 25 months. More complicated cases can at times take more than the current average, while an element of straightforward cases can be dealt with in less than that timescale.
I am unhappy with the length of time it takes to process citizenship applications. I have initiated steps within my Department to provide for a speedier processing of applications and to bring about a substantial reduction in the timescale. When the Department is in a position to implement these new arrangements an announcement will be made.
143 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Defence his plans to introduce a redundancy scheme for the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7811/11]
There are no plans to introduce a redundancy scheme for the Defence Forces; in fact, limited recruitment has been taking place since 2010 in the context of the Employment Control Framework (ECF) for the Defence Forces. The Government is focused firmly on maintaining the operational efficiency of the Permanent Defence Force within the resource envelope made available by Government.
I am advised by the Military Authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force as of 31 March 2011, the latest date for which figures are available, was 9,692 comprising 7,894 Army, 788 Air Corps and 1,010 Naval Service personnel. I am advised at this time that the Defence Forces retain the capacity to undertake the roles assigned by Government.
144 Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he and the European Commission have looked at the markets for milk and milk-based products post-2015, when the expansion in the dairy industry will take place; and the steps he and the European Commission have taken to ensure that there will be a proper price paid to primary producers. [7843/11]
There have been a number of reports on the impact of quota abolition on milk production in the EU. Most recently, the European Commission has analysed the market situation for milk and milk products post 2015, in a report published last December on the prospects for a ‘soft landing', following the abolition of milk quotas. This report predicts that EU milk production over the period to 2020 will grow modestly, with production in 2020 expected to exceed that of 2009 by about 3%. It also suggests that cheese and fresh dairy product output is expected to grow in response to strengthening demand, with prospects for butter conditional on firm domestic demand. Milk powder prospects are somewhat uncertain, with a fall in EU production possible.
In 2009 the Commission established the High Level Group on Milk to examine a series of mid-term and long-term issues in the dairy sector arising from the expiry of milk quotas. It delivered its report in June 2010 and one of the recommendations was to look at measures to improve the bargaining power of dairy producers. This has resulted in a proposal for a legislative ‘dairy package' making provision for contractual relations between producers and processors. It will also allow producer organisations to negotiate contract terms on behalf of dairy farmers with a view to strengthening their position in the supply chain. However, these elements are expected to have little impact in Ireland, where our processing structure is based on co-operatives.
The milk price paid to primary producers varies throughout the EU as market forces have a major influence on the price. World market prices determine the returns received by dairy processors and these in turn are reflected in the price paid to farmers. Over the medium to long term prospects for world dairy markets are positive, with growth in population and wealth predicted to stimulate strong levels of demand and improve returns to the dairy sector. Nevertheless, the CAP provides a range of support measures that can be used to manage the dairy market, and to provide a safety net in times of market decline such as 2009. There is now a broad acceptance at the Council of the need to retain such safety-net measures in the reformed CAP after 2013. In addition the Commission has undertaken to explore new instruments to help reduce income volatility.
On the domestic front we have also been preparing for the future. Last year my Department published Food Harvest 2020 and the report outlines the positive prospects for the dairy sector over the medium- to long-term, and sets an ambitious target of a 50 per cent increase in milk production by 2020. It sets out a number of recommendations designed to support the realisation of this potential growth, ranging from milk processing to on-farm competitiveness, technology transfer, and R&D and marketing. I fully support the aims of this strategy and will work with the industry to help achieve its targets.
145 Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will review an application for single farm payment in respect of persons (details supplied) in County Offaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7820/11]
Following contact by an official of my Department it was confirmed that the issue relates to the application of the second person named. An application under the 2010 Single Payment Scheme was received on 31 March 2010. During validation of the application an over-claim was identified on one of the parcels declared. This error was raised with the person named and a reply was received to state that the applicant was accepting the amended reference area. Payments were calculated on this basis: the advance payment issued on 18 October 2010 and the balancing payment on 1 December 2010.
146 Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a single farm payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary. [7822/11]
Three applications were received requesting the transfer of Single Payment entitlements from the person named to other farmers, two by way of sale and one by way of lease for one year.
As my Department was not satisfied that the two applications relating to the sale of entitlements were received prior to the closing date of 17 May 2010, these applications were rejected on 13 October 2010. The person named sought a review of this decision and the original decision was upheld following that review. The case has since been appealed to the Independent Appeals Office.
As the application to transfer entitlements by way of lease omitted the land parcels that form part of this transaction, a letter issued from the Transfer of Entitlements section on 13 October 2010 requesting the details of these parcels. A further request for this information issued on 11 February 2011. To date this information has not been provided by the person named and consequently this application remains outstanding.
147 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when 2010 agri-environment options scheme payments will issue. [7879/11]
Under the EU Regulations governing the Agri-Environment Options Scheme and other area-based payment schemes, a comprehensive administrative check, including cross-checks with the Land Parcel Identification System, must be completed before any payment can issue. Payments will commence at the earliest possible date once these checks have been completed.
148 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the criteria used in conducting the baseline study for the special area of conservation in Roaring Water Bay in west Cork; the terms of the contract; the body or company conducting the study; when he expects the study to be completed and published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7884/11]
The Marine Institute has undertaken the collection of baseline data in order to allow the National Parks and Wildlife Service set conservation objectives for the site in question, and thereafter to allow the Department of Agriculture, Marine and Food to reach a determination on permitting/licensing of relevance to the site. The data in question can be made publicly available by the Marine Institute, once the conservation objectives for the site have been completed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The Marine Institute is an independent statutory agency, hence the internal management is a matter for the board, in which the Minister does not have a role. However, the Department has forwarded the request to the Institute for its consideration and for a direct reply to the Deputy.
149 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the criteria used in conducting the baseline study for the special area of conservation in Kenmare Bay, County Kerry; the terms of the contract; the body or company conducting the study; when he expects the study to be completed and published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7885/11]
The Marine Institute has undertaken the collection of baseline data in order to allow the National Parks and Wildlife Service to set conservation objectives for the site in question, and thereafter to allow the Department of Agriculture, Marine and Food to reach a determination on permitting/licensing of relevance to the site. The data in question can be made publicly available by the Marine Institute, once the Conservation Objectives for the site have been completed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The Marine Institute is an independent statutory agency; hence, the internal management is a matter for the board, in which the Minister does not have a role. However, the Department has forwarded the request to the Institute for its consideration and for a direct reply to the Deputy.
150 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps he will take to reduce the processing time for foreshore and aquaculture licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7887/11]
The current delay in the processing of new and renewal licence applications largely arises because the majority of areas for which the licences are sought are designated Special Areas of Conservation under the EU Habitats Directive and/or Special Protection Areas under the EU Birds Directive (Natura 2000 sites).
In the case of aquaculture sites located within Natura 2000 areas the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, in conjunction with the Marine Institute and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government is engaged in a comprehensive programme to gather the necessary baseline data appropriate to the conservation objectives of these areas. This process is ongoing and significant progress has been made. This comprehensive data collection programme, together with the setting of appropriate conservation objectives by the NPWS, will enable all new, renewal and review applications to be appropriately assessed for the purpose of ensuring compliance with the EU Birds and Habitats Directives. This work represents a significant financial, administrative and scientific investment by the State in resolving this issue. The appropriate assessment of aquaculture applications will be dealt with on a bay-by-bay basis.
My Department continues to make every effort to expedite the determination of all outstanding cases having regard to the complexities of each case and the need to comply fully with all national and EU legislation.
151 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when payment on a REP scheme application will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary. [7934/11]
The person named commenced REPS 4 in April 2008. He received his year 1 payment in April 2009 and his year 2 payment in December 2009.
During the SPS check some discrepancies relating to area were highlighted and an adjusted plan was requested. This adjusted plan has now been received and indicates a smaller area than that declared. The necessary clawback of payment is being calculated and the appropriate payment will issue as soon as possible.
152 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when payment on a REP scheme application will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary. [7935/11]
The person named commenced REPS 4 in October 2009 and received his year 1 payment in March 2010.
On 31 March 2011 the file was chosen for investigation and an inspection will be carried out over the next few weeks. The application will be processed for payment upon completion of the on farm inspection.
153 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the volume of food imports from the United Kingdom in 2009 and 2010; the action he is taking on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7936/11]
In 2009, Ireland imported 2.4 million tonnes of agri-food products from the UK, with a value of €2.7 billion. Ireland's agri-food exports to the UK amounted to 2.5 million tonnes, with a value of €3.7 billion (source: CSO trade statistics). In 2010, Ireland imported 2.5 million tonnes of agri-food products from the UK, with a value of €2.7 billion. Ireland's agri-food exports to the UK amounted to 2.5 million tonnes, with a value of €3.8 billion (source: CSO trade statistics).
The food industry has a huge export orientation with exports currently worth over €7.8 billion (source: Bord Bia). Over the past decade, the Irish agri-food, forestry and fisheries sector has competed successfully on the world stage and has demonstrated its capacity to perform as a major player in the global food and drink market. Currently, Irish food and drink produce is exported to more than 160 countries. The Irish food industry benefits greatly from free trade with other EU Member States, and with the UK in particular. The UK remains the largest export destination for the Irish food industry, accounting for 44% of agri-food exports in 2010 (source: Bord Bia).
154 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when payment on a REP scheme application will issue to persons (details supplied) in County Tipperary. [7938/11]
The person named commenced REPS in June 2008 and received the year 1 payment in March 2009 and the year 2 payment in December 2009.
Following redigitisation the area of the farm has been reduced slightly and an adjusted plan had to be drawn up. This adjusted plan has now been received and the necessary clawback of payment is being calculated. When this is finalised, payment will issue.
155 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of persons in County Meath that availed of the agri-environment options scheme in 2010; the amount allocated to them; the overall amount allocated in the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7939/11]
My Department received a total of 216 applications from applicants in County Meath. A total of 198 of these applicants have been approved into the scheme to date. Where applicants were notified that they were not successful and where an appeal has been received my Department is conducting reviews.
The AEOS budget is not allocated on a county basis. The total 2011 annual allocation for the AEOS 2010 scheme is €32 million. However, the actual outturn will not be known until the total payments for the first full scheme year have issued.
156 Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is considering re-examining the potential of the Irish sugar industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7940/11]
As part of the reform of the EU sugar regime in 2006, a temporary restructuring scheme was introduced with the aim of the European Commission reducing EU sugar production in order to comply with WTO and other international obligations. The scheme provided an incentive for sugar processors to renounce sugar quota and dismantle the associated sugar processing plant and it provided compensation for affected stakeholders.
Greencore plc, the sole Irish sugar processor and holder of the entire Irish quota allocation, decided to avail of the restructuring scheme. Accordingly the company renounced the quota and dismantled the last remaining Irish sugar factory at Mallow in compliance with the conditions of the scheme. This brought the Irish sugar industry to an end.
As a result of the restructuring scheme the overall EU sugar quota was reduced by almost 6 million tonnes, of which the Irish quota contributed some 200,000 tonnes. Sugar production in the EU is now concentrated in 18 Member States, as opposed to 23 before the reform.
The sugar reform package secured consisted of a restructuring aid, diversification aids and single payment and was worth approximately €353m of which €220m went to Irish beet growers, €6m went to machinery contractors and €127m to Greencore plc. The beet growers' share was made up of diversification aid of €44m, compensation via the single payment which is €123m over 7 years and restructuring aid of €53m. The restructuring and diversification aids were paid out in 2007 and 2008.
There is no mechanism under the present regulations, which are in force to the end of the sugar marketing year in 2015, that would allow for the reinstatement of the sugar quota for the growing of sugar beet in Ireland for the processing of sugar. Any proposal to review the EU sugar quota regime would be a matter for the EU Commission in the first instance and any proposal to re-establish a sugar factory in Ireland would, subject to the availability of quota, be a matter for commercial decisions by interested parties.
I am aware that currently there are a number of proposals for feasibility studies, investigating the possibilities for the re-development of sugar production here together with the establishment of a bio-refinery plant, using sugar beet. I look forward to hearing the results of these studies, with interest.
I wish to add that a quantity of sugar beet has always been grown in Ireland for fodder purposes and this continues. It is not affected by the EU sugar regime.
157 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the action he is taking to ensure that the staff needed to fulfil the teaching requirements of courses being offered in agricultural colleges will be delivered as soon as possible, in view of the increased demand for places at the colleges; the action he is taking on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7945/11]
Under the Agriculture (Research, Training and Advice) Act, 1988, Teagasc has statutory responsibility for the provision of education, research and advisory services to the Agriculture sector. It is a matter for Teagasc and its Board to prioritise activities in the delivery of these services and to allocate its resources in accordance with these priorities.
I understand Teagasc employs over 180 staff and funds the salaries of a further 40 staff in the privately owned agricultural colleges to deliver their Education Programme. The Programme includes a wide range of education and training courses targeted at young people planning to embark on careers in farming, horticulture, equine, forestry and adult farmers wishing to acquire a skill set/training in a particular area.
Implementation of the Teagasc Education Programme is an operational matter for the Teagasc Authority. Teagasc must work within Government guidelines on public service numbers and match demand for education programmes and other services with available staff resources. Reallocation of work and redeployment of staff will be an essential part of this process.
158 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding the Charities Act (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7819/11]
The Charities Act 2009 is structured in such a way as to allow for commencement, by Ministerial order, of its individual provisions on different dates over a period of time. While commencement of the majority of the Act is contingent on a Charities Regulatory Authority and a Charity Appeals Tribunal being in place, a number of initiatives to regulate and enhance the transparency of the sector have been progressed since the legislation was enacted.
Two commencement orders, bringing 7 sections of the Charities Act into law have been passed. These relate to:
section 99 of the Act (which regulates the sale of pre-signed Mass cards and some relevant technical sections); and
sections 4 and 90 of the Act (section 4 allows for Ministerial orders or regulations under the Act, while section 90 makes provision to grant powers in any proceedings to the courts to grant relief to charity trustees from personal liability for breach of trust).
In addition, the Deputy should note that:
In relation to the Register of Charities, the Act provides that any organisation that holds charitable tax exemptions from the Revenue Commissioners on the day the Register of Charities is introduced will be automatically deemed to be entered onto the Register. Work on ensuring that the information legally required to be published on the Register will be in place on establishment day is being advanced. This is a considerable body of work as there are well over 7,000 such organisations.
My Department is providing funding towards the development of a comprehensive public database and website of all not-for-profit entities operating in Ireland. It is considered that this project will greatly enhance the public transparency of the Irish non-profit sector.
With regard to financial and activity reporting by charities, it is proposed to consult with the charities sector in relation to the type of financial and activity reporting that they will be required to make to the new Authority. This consultation is to be carried out parallel to a broader review of the UK & Ireland Generally Agreed Accounting Principles (GAAP) that is being undertaken by the Accountancy Standards Board at the moment. It is hoped that a public consultation process on this matter will be initiated over the coming months.
With regard to the regulation of charitable fund-raising, my Department has been providing funding and working in partnership with the charities sector to develop a scheme to implement and monitor a voluntary Code of Practice for Fund-raising by charities. In this context, Guiding Principles for Fund-raising were recently produced and have been disseminated to the charities sector. A Monitoring Group, which will include representation from my Department, is also being established to monitor adherence to the codes and to generally review their operation over a 3 year period.
Finally, the Deputy should note that responsibility for this area will transfer to the Department of Justice and Equality over the coming weeks. Accordingly, continuing to advance the regulation of the Irish charities sector through both statutory and non-statutory means will be a matter for that Department to progress.
159 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs when he will make a decision on the Multyfarnham and Milltownpass application for further funding as was recommended by Westmeath Community Development. [7840/11]
Funding of €427m is to be made available under the Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2007-2013 for allocation to qualifying projects up to the end of 2013. One of the objectives of the RDP is to identify and provide appropriate amenity and leisure facilities to local communities not otherwise available to them.
There are 36 Local Action Groups contracted, on my Department's behalf, to deliver the RDP throughout the country, and these groups are the principal decision-makers in relation to the allocation of project funding. Such decisions are made in the context of the local development strategy of the individual groups and in line with Departmental operating rules and EU regulations. There is a procedure in place, in line with the operating rules, which facilitates final clearance from my Department when the proposed funding for an individual project is in excess of €150,000. Both projects referred to by the Deputy are currently under review through this procedure and I envisage that this process will be finalised very soon.
160 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the steps she will take to advance the national drugs strategy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7047/11]
Responsibility for co-ordinating policy on drugs is at present assigned to the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs. As the Deputy may be aware, the Government has agreed, with effect from 1 May 2011, to transfer the functions of the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs in relation to the National Drugs Strategy to the Minister for Health and Children.
The Government is committed to addressing problem drug use in a comprehensive way. In line with this, the National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016 aims to tackle the harm caused to individuals and society by the misuse of drugs through a concerted focus on the five pillars of supply reduction, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and research. The Actions set out in the Strategy facilitate a planned and monitored approach to achieving the overall strategic objectives. It is envisaged that progress on the implementation of these Actions will continue to be reviewed on an ongoing basis.
I can assure the Deputy that the Government intends to build upon the progress already achieved in the implementation of the National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016 to the benefit of individuals, their families and their communities.
161 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children the reasons the Health Service Executive proceeded with matters relating to the procurement of agency nurses without the involvement of the relevant unions, which is in direct contradiction of the public service agreement relating to procurement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7793/11]
162 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the Health Service Executive gave a monopoly for the supply of agency nurses to a single company, which will not acknowledge, meet or negotiate with unions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7794/11]
164 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the Health Service Executive is acting in contravention of guidelines and refusing to attend the Labour Relations Commission as recommended by the implementation body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7796/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 161, 162 and 164 together.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) introduced new arrangements for contracting agency staff on 14 March 2011. The appointment of agencies to provide health staff, including agency nurses, is a HSE procurement matter and neither I nor my Department had any involvement in this process. The use of agency staff has always been a feature of the health system and will remain an ongoing requirement to fill short-term vacancies and ensure continuity of service provision. Agency nurses are employed directly by the agencies that were successful in the HSE's tendering competition. The HSE is required as part of the Employment Control Framework to keep the use of agency staff to a minimum. The HSE have advised that where possible, in the context of the moratorium and Employment Control Framework, part time and work-sharing staff are being offered the opportunity to increase the number of hours they work before agency staff are used.
However, as the Deputy may be aware, the health sector trade unions objected to the new contract including the rates of pay. The matter was raised at the Health Sector Implementation Body established under the Public Service Agreement and subsequently considered by the national level Implementation Body. The Implementation Body has recommended that the parties should seek the assistance of the Labour Relations Commission in relation to implementation issues. The Body also noted that a process of engagement between both the social partners at national level and the parties within the public service, on the implications on the utilisation, terms and conditions of Agency staffing, arising from the transposition due by December of this year of the Directive on Temporary Agency Work (2008/104/EC), should commence as soon as possible.
However, the HSE, like all Government organisations, must review its procurement arrangements for all services to reduce costs, ensure efficiency and protect services. The new contract for agency staff is part of the approved service plan for 2011 and will deliver cost savings in excess of €40 million for the taxpayer across the health sector. In this regard, the contract negotiated by the HSE remains in place and it is my understanding that both parties will be attending the Labour Relations Commission.
163 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the Health Service Executive, in its quest to save money, is targeting lower-paid front-line service providers and not tackling the excessive salary levels of senior administrative and front-line personnel, which is to the detriment of health service provision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7795/11]
On 2 December 2010, the Government approved the reduction by 10% of the salary scale and fixed allowances for new entrants to traditional recruitment grades in the public service, with effect from 1 January 2011. This was to achieve a medium-term structural reduction in the cost of the public service and gave effect to a commitment in the National Recovery Plan.
Therefore, this reduction was not applied to staff of the Health Service Executive alone. This measure is one which applies to all newly entrants at traditional recruitment grades across the entire public service. The reduction was targeted at grades where there is a preponderance of recruitment from external sources, so as to limit the effect on existing staff. As it happens, the vast majority of such grades are those of basic, entry-level grades. It should be noted that individuals currently employed in public health service in these basic, entry-level grades or new recruits who have previously worked in the same or similar grade in the public service are exempt from this reduction. The impact of this pay reduction is quite limited, given that the moratorium on recruitment continues to be in place and there is little external recruitment being undertaken either within the public health service, or across the wider public sector.
With regard to the pay of senior staff in the public health service referred to by the Deputy, staff in these grades were subject to the earlier pay reductions in January 2010, as provided for under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (FEMPI) no. 2 Act, 2009, along with all other public servants. The Act was introduced in the context of the priority to be given to the stabilisation of the public finances and its purpose was to achieve a reduction of approx €1bn in the public service pay bill in 2010. Public Service salaries of up to €125,000 were reduced by the following:
5% on the first €30,000 of salary;
7.5% on the next €40,000 of salary; and
10% on the next €55,000 of salary.
This produced overall reductions in salaries ranging from 5% to just under 8% in the case of salaries up to €125,000. This was a progressive, measured reduction which provides that those that have higher salaries will contribute more. This resulted in reductions of 8% on all salary for persons with salaries from €125,000 to less than €165,000; 12% on all salary for persons earning from €165,000 to less than €200,000; and 15% on all salary for salaries of €200,000 or more.
165 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a medical card application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [7797/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
166 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Health and Children the support he and the Health Service Executive will provide to an organisation (details supplied) in County Clare catering for children with special therapeutic needs, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy. [7798/11]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have referred this question to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
167 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Health and Children when payment will be made to an organisation (details supplied) in County Laois. [7835/11]
My Department has received an application for funding from the 2011 National Lottery allocation from the organisation in question. A grant was approved by the previous Minister for Health and Children and Tánaiste in February. The Department requested clarification in respect of aspects of the purpose of the grant from the organisation. Having received the requested clarification, the payment to the organisation is in the process of being issued.
168 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Health and Children the construction projects planned by the Health Service Executive or by him for the next five years and the following five to ten years; and if he will provide the list of same. [7837/11]
The Health Service Executive's capital infrastructure programme is a multi-annual programme which is developed over a rolling five year period. The Executive's capital allocation for the five year period is €1,876.55m, (an allocation of €374.25m is assumed for 2015). Allocations for 2011-2014 are as follows — all include €40m per annum in respect of ICT:
2011 — €392.25m (includes provision for €15m from the proceeds of disposal of surplus assets);
2012 — €361.85m;
2013 — €373.95m;
2014 — €374.25m.
In drawing up its capital programme for the current 2011-2015 period the HSE is required to prioritise its capital infrastructure projects within its overall capital funding allocation taking into account the programme's capital commitments and cost to completion over the multi-annual period. Given the level of commitments and the costs to completion already in place, there is limited funding available for new projects before 2014. The HSE has submitted its draft capital plan for the multi-annual period 2011-2015. This draft plan is under consideration and requires my approval with the consent of the Minister for Finance. Details of the capital infrastructure projects already in progress are set out in the HSE's capital plan 2010-2014 which is available on its website: http://www.hse.ie/eng/services/Publications/corporate/capitalplan2010.html
The HSE reviews its capital project proposals on a rolling five year basis and detailed information beyond this period is not available.
169 Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for Health and Children his plans to restore the dental health scheme for medical card holders and social insurance contributors in the interests of oral hygiene and preventative dental decay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7855/11]
I am considering the measures introduced by the HSE to contain expenditure on the Dental Treatment Services Scheme at the level of €63m. Responsibility for the Dental Treatment Benefit Scheme (DTBS) rests with my colleague, the Minister for Social Protection. I understand that the expenditure and, as a consequence, the treatments available under the DTBS will be kept under review, taking account of the prevailing economic circumstances.
170 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an appeal against a decision to refuse an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7858/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
171 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a date has not been set for a procedure in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny and if he will expedite a response. [7859/11]
The management of hospital services generally, including outpatient waiting lists, is a matter for the Health Service Executive and the individual hospitals concerned. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the case investigated and to reply directly to the Deputy.
172 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will be accountable to Dáil Éireann for the actions of the Health Service Executive; if he will respond directly to queries in relation to the HSE, whether raised through parliamentary questions or on the Adjournment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7862/11]
The Programme for Government contains a number of commitments in respect of improving the way parliamentary questions, Adjournment debates, etc. are dealt with. I expect that these initiatives will be progressed across all Departments in due course.
However, I have already made a change in the arrangements for responding to parliamentary questions by the Health Service Executive. I have decided that parliamentary questions about operational issues of a national nature will now be answered by me, as Minister. Whenever possible these questions will be answered on the relevant Dáil day. Where this is not possible, because the information is not readily available, I will issue a reply as soon as possible thereafter.
Questions about individual patients, such as individual applications for medical cards, and about local service issues, such as individual hospitals or local organisations, will continue to be referred to the HSE for direct reply to Deputies. I have already asked my Department to liaise with the HSE about how best to improve the HSE response times for such questions.
Adjournment Debates will continue to be taken by me, as Minister, or by the Ministers of State as required.
173 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Limerick is on the waiting list for a procedure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7870/11]
The management of hospital services generally, including waiting lists, is a matter for the Health Service Executive and the individual hospitals concerned. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the case investigated and to reply directly to the Deputy.
In the event that a person is on an in-patient waiting list, and subject to the resources available to it and the overall waiting list situation in the hospital concerned, the National Treatment Purchase Fund may arrange treatment for patients who have been on a surgical waiting list for more than three months.
174 Deputy Regina Doherty asked the Minister for Health and Children the staff to patient ratio in the St. John of God hospital facilities, including residential and non-residential houses in Ireland for 2011, versus the staff to patient ratio in same facilities for the years 2008, 2009 and 2010; the effects the reduction in the staff to patient ratio has had on client services over these years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7878/11]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have referred this question to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
175 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application for an over 70s medical card in respect of persons (details supplied) in County Cork. [7881/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
176 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7915/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
177 Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in providing speech therapy to a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; when ongoing speech therapy will be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7922/11]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have referred this question to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
178 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of nurses qualified in the past ten years and to date 2011; the number of such that have obtained whole time permanent, whole time temporary or part time posts and are currently employed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7947/11]
The following data has been compiled by An Bord Altranais in relation to the numbers of newly qualified nurses that have registered in the past ten years and to date in 2011.
|
*2011 figure up to and including 13th April 2011 |
|||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Total |
2011 |
2010 |
2009 |
2008 |
2007 |
2006 |
2005 |
2004 |
2003 |
2002 |
2001 |
|
16,848 |
303* |
1,715 |
1,890 |
1,918 |
1,805 |
1,631 |
570 |
1,851 |
1,787 |
1,657 |
1,721 |
There are currently some 36,800 nursing whole time equivalents employed in the health service. The breakdown that the Deputy is asking for in relation to nursing graduates over the period outlined is not routinely available.
179 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the extent it is expected, intended or proposed to provide the necessary and urgently required extra accommodation at a health centre (details supplied) in County Kildare; if he has given instructions or directions in this regard; if it is expected to address these requirements as a matter of urgency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7948/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
180 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [7956/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
181 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to allow more flexibility in the local authority road budget for 2011 in order that roads which were badly damaged during the recent bad winter may be repaired. [7860/11]
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 these 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 local authorities.
In February this year it was announced that a total of €375.176 million would be provided to local authorities for the maintenance and improvement of regional and local roads in 2011. In addition, the restoration improvement programme was reintroduced to provide local authorities with flexibility to change their programmes if necessary, given the period of severe weather in late 2010. Furthermore, a winter maintenance grant category has also been introduced which local authorities may use for treating roads during periods of cold weather.
To provide increased expenditure flexibility to local authorities the discretionary maintenance grant and the discretionary improvement grant schemes have been combined as a single discretionary grant and this may be used for maintenance and for strengthening type works on the road network. Similarly, very considerable flexibility has been given to local authorities in respect of the utilisation of the Department of Transport 2011 Grant Allocations for regional and local roads.
It is also particularly important that local authorities do not reduce expenditure from their own resources in respect of roads this year in view of the current difficult situation and that they carefully reassess their planned road programmes for 2011 in the light of the impact of the bad weather on their road networks.
182 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he will take to implement the proposal in the programme for Government to explore the provision of an emergency towing vessel for the Coast Guard; if he will consider the option of a partnership with other bodies or a commercial company which may be interested in such a project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7886/11]
My Department has been pursuing efforts to develop, enhance and improve Ireland's marine pollution prevention, preparedness and response capability from within existing and available resources and funds. On foot of the programme for Government, there will be a review of the risk posed by international shipping of oil and hazardous substance pollution and an assessment of what steps can be taken for the provision of an emergency towing capacity for the Coast Guard.
The Deputy will be aware that responsibility for the Coast Guard is in the process of being transferred to the Department of Agriculture, Marine and Food.
183 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when a final decision will issue on an application for funding for sustainable modes of transport including cycle tracks and walkways in an area (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7937/11]
This project was one of eleven short-listed for stage 2 of the smarter travel areas competition. As a result of changes to economic circumstances and the associated impact on availability of funding, future steps with the competition are currently under review. The local authorities concerned will be notified of the outcome of the review in due course.
184 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will not support any proposal to fill in 52 acres of Dublin Bay. [7953/11]
Dublin Port Company has recently announced the commencement of a public consultation to help develop a master plan for the port's future development. The company's statutory responsibilities under the Harbours Act 1996 include the development of the port, the provision of sufficient port facilities, and the promotion of investment in the port.
Once completed, the master plan will outline the Company's vision for the development of the port over the next 30 years. The issues paper published by the Company for consultative purposes raises a number of different options for consideration as part of the port's future development.
I welcome this initiative being taken by the company and would encourage all stakeholders to engage constructively in the process. It is in line with international best practice and is consistent with efforts to improve integrated transport planning more generally. It is an important method for facilitating the engagement of local communities and other stakeholders in the long term planning of the port.
