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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 18 Oct 2011

Vol. 744 No. 1

Written Answers

The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 21, inclusive, answered orally.
Questions Nos. 22 to 38, inclusive, resubmitted.
Questions Nos. 39 to 50, inclusive, answered orally.

Ministerial Meetings

Gerry Adams

Question:

51 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will provide an update on the North-South meetings and other engagements he has had with his counterpart from the Northern Assembly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29861/11]

Since my appointment as Minister, I have met with my counterpart, Ms Carál Ní Chuilín, MLA, Minister for Culture, Arts and Leisure, on a number of occasions, both formally and informally.

The Deputy will, of course, be aware that my Department and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure co-fund and co-sponsor two North-South Implementation bodies. These are Waterways Ireland and An Foras Teanga (comprising Foras na Gaeilge and the Ulster Scots Agency/Tha Boord o Ulstèr- Scotch). The Deputy will also be aware that there are a number of functional areas that come within the ambit of my Department that also come within the ambit of the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure in Northern Ireland, including responsibility for arts, culture, museums and galleries, language and commemorations. Indeed, officials of my Department are currently exploring with their colleagues in the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure potential mechanisms to enhance co-operation across all of these areas.

The most recent formal meeting between Minister Ní Chuilín and myself was at the NSMC Inland Waterways and Language sectoral meetings on 12 October last, directly following which we attended an event to launch the 18th William Kennedy Piping Festival in Armagh. The Deputy will be aware from previous replies to Parliamentary Questions that I also met Minister Ní Chuilín at the NSMC Inland Waterways and Language sectoral meetings on 7 July 2011.

In addition, I met Minister Ní Chuilín on National Famine Commemoration Day, which was held in Clones, Co. Monaghan on 10 September 2011, and also in the context of a recent Waterways Ireland Conference in Dublin Castle on 14 September 2011. We also met at the unveiling of newly installed artwork at the NSMC offices in Armagh on 28 September last. I should say that both Deputy Dinny McGinley, Minister of State at my Department, and myself have separately met Minister Ní Chuilín on a range of issues in Belfast. The next scheduled formal meeting between Minister Ní Chuilín and myself will take place on 7 November 2011.

Question No. 52 answered with Question No. 48.

State Collections

Denis Naughten

Question:

53 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the steps he will take to maximise the use of State exhibits and exhibitions currently held in storage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29503/11]

The Deputy will appreciate that the management of exhibitions and exhibition material is an operational matter for which the individual institutions have responsibility and this is reflected, in particular, in the legislative basis under which the national institutions such as the National Museum, National Gallery and National Library operate. I am, however, arranging to have the Deputy's interest in these matters conveyed to the Directors of the relevant institutions.

Arts Policy

Pádraig Mac Lochlainn

Question:

54 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht how he plans to maximise participation in the arts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29856/11]

Government policy on the Arts is set out in the Programme for Government and aims to promote and strengthen the arts in all its forms, increase access to and participation in the arts, and make the arts an integral and valued part of our national life.

Responsibility for the promotion of the arts at all levels throughout the country is primarily devolved to the Arts Council. The Arts Council is the principal agency through which State funding is channelled to the arts. Under the Arts Act 2003, the general functions of the Council include the following:

to stimulate public interest in the arts;

to promote knowledge, appreciation and practice of the arts; and

to assist in improving standards in the arts.

The Arts Council is a statutorily independent body funded by my Department and is independent in its day-to-day operations, including in relation to its funding decisions. For 2011 the Exchequer allocation to the Arts Council is €65.127 million.

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

55 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the number of persons employed in the arts; his plans for job creation in the arts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29879/11]

Joan Collins

Question:

62 Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his plans for sustained funding and job creation in the arts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29853/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

292 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the total number of persons employed directly or indirectly in the arts at present; if he will endeavour to ensure that such numbers are retained or expanded, with particular reference to both the economic and cultural benefit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30139/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 55, 62 and 292 together.

The arts and culture sectors continue to offer vital opportunities for the provision of important cultural, social and employment benefits to communities throughout the country. As the Deputies will appreciate, the nature of employment within the arts sector encompasses a very wide range of activities. Its scope can include those engaged in the arts practice within specific artistic genres and can also encompass areas which flow from such artistic pursuits. It may also embody the whole industrial creative sectors — the foundation of which lie in the pure arts areas. Accordingly, there are differentiated sets of figures which reflect the differing basis from which employment numbers are derived.

Using data compiled by DKM consultants in 2009, "Economic Impact of the Arts, Culture and Creative Sectors", which examined available statistics on the arts and culture sector, employment in the arts, culture and creative industries areas was demonstrated as being of the order of 170,000. It may be noted that this study took a wide definition of the arts and included part of the broad cultural and creative industries, including direct, indirect and induced employment numbers, and also took into account those employed, for instance, in the advertising sector, architecture, fashion and design, and cultural tourism.

The Government appreciates and values the contribution the arts sector makes to the internationally renowned artistic reputation of this country. Within the current economic constraints, that investment in the arts, culture and creative sectors is more important than ever, having regard to the employment intensity of the sector. In the context of the 2012 Estimates, I will, of course, be endeavouring to maximise continuing Government support for the arts.

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

56 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the role he sees for the arts in mental well-being; his efforts to see that potential realised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29865/11]

The Deputy will appreciate that I have no statutory responsibility in relation to mental health, which is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Health. However, the Deputy may find the www.artsandhealth.ie website of interest. This website is funded by the Arts Council, which is statutorily independent in its funding decisions.

Question No. 57 answered with Question No. 46.

National Monuments

Sandra McLellan

Question:

58 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his plans for the continued protection of post-1700 monuments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29860/11]

Sandra McLellan

Question:

301 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his plans for the continued protection of post-1700 monuments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29905/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 58 and 301 together.

I can assure the Deputy that there are no proposals to remove the protection of the National Monuments Acts from any category of monument. My Department's National Monuments Service is reviewing the policy for including monuments in the Record of Monuments and Places (RMP) because the current RMP, drawn up more than 10 years ago, is not consistent across all counties, where post-1700 AD monuments are concerned.

The objective of this current review is to bring about greater consistency across the board. This is only one element of a wider strategy to improve the management, protection, presentation and appreciation of Ireland's unique archaeological heritage. My Department is working to provide high quality, accurate and accessible information through its dedicated website www.archaeology.ie. A comprehensive new Monuments Bill is also being drafted to consolidate, modernise and improve the legislative code for the protection and regulation of our archaeological heritage. In addition, detailed guidance is being developed on archaeological best practice and procedure, based on comprehensive recommendations from an expert review group that has been engaged in an intensive examination of practice over a number of years.

There are obviously issues that will arise as to how, and under which legislation, certain structures should be best protected. There is no question, however, of the current Record of Monuments and Places (RMP) being revised until the review has been completed. When draft policy and criteria for updating the RMP have been developed, my Department will consult with interested parties before any decisions are made.

Arts Funding

Martin Ferris

Question:

59 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his plans to prioritise supports and funding for independent arts centres here into the future in view of the important role that such centres play within communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29862/11]

Primary responsibility for the promotion of the arts at all levels throughout the country is devolved to the Arts Council. The Council is funded by my Department and is independent in its day to day operations, including funding decisions. The allocation to the Arts Council for 2011 is €65.16m. My Department has no statutory responsibility for the ongoing funding of independent arts centres.

Under the ACCESS programme, my Department is responsible for the provision of capital monies for arts centres, galleries, theatres, etc. A total of €7.8m was allocated in 2011 for regional arts capital projects throughout the country. Many projects have already been completed, are open to the public and are providing resources for local communities. A list of the successful ACCESS II projects and the amount of grant aid allocated to each project is available on my Department's website.

National Asset Management Agency

Michael Colreavy

Question:

60 Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the progress that has been made to date in securing properties under the control of NAMA that may be suitable for use as local arts facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29866/11]

As I mentioned in replies to previous Parliamentary Questions, I have met the chair and chief executive of NAMA in relation to the potential use of NAMA buildings for cultural purposes. As the Deputy and the House will, however, appreciate, NAMA is required to deal with a range of sensitive financial matters in carrying out its functions and is restricted in regard to the information it may make available in relation to assets.

Turbary Rights

Denis Naughten

Question:

61 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the step he will take to minimise the impact of the ban on turf cutting on individuals and families; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29502/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

294 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which an amicable settlement has been found with traditional turfcutters who are affected by various EU and other conservation measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30141/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 61 and 294 together.

Further to Ireland's obligations under EU law to protect rare and threatened natural habitats, it is clear that further turf-cutting and conservation of Ireland's 53 raised bog Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) is incompatible. Earlier this year, the Government announced a compensation package for those affected by the cessation of turf cutting in these 53 raised bog SACs. The package offers qualifying turf-cutters the option of a financial payment of €1,000 per year index linked, for a period of 15 years or, where feasible, their relocation to a non-designated bog, where they can continue to cut turf.

In April, the independently chaired Peatlands Council was established, comprising representatives of turf-cutting interest groups, environmental groups, Bord na Móna and my Department. The remit of the Council includes an opportunity to review the compensation arrangements, to make proposals and to provide advice to me. As part of its contribution, one of the turf-cutting representative groups, the IFA, proposed that the State would provide a delivery of turf to those who must stop turf-cutting as an alternative to a financial payment. My Department is now making arrangements to include this as an element of the compensation arrangements. The Council has also proposed an approach that would focus on the long-term energy requirements of affected turf-cutters and this proposal is also being explored.

In terms of relocation, following lengthy discussions between affected turf-cutters, Bord na Móna and my Department, agreement has been reached on the terms and conditions for relocation from the first of the 53 raised bogs to an alternative undesignated bog, where the turf-cutters involved will be cutting in 2012. This relocation can now be used as a template for other groups who wish to continue cutting on alternative bogs.

The Peatlands Council has shown that it can be a vehicle to deliver results and a credible forum where the interests of turf-cutters can be represented and accommodated. While one group — the Turf-Cutters and Contractors Association (TCCA) — has withdrawn from the Peatlands Council, it had been working, with the assistance of my Department, to explore relocation sites for the 53 SACs. I would still welcome any proposals which the TCCA wish to propose to the Peatlands Council and my Department in this regard.

It is also intended that the Peatlands Council will be the vehicle for the drawing up of a Peatlands Strategy, which my Department is undertaking, and where longer-term issues regarding the future use of Ireland's peatlands will be set out. Interested parties can make their views known by writing directly to the Peatlands Council or by having their views directed to it through one of the representative groups sitting on the Council.

Question No. 62 answered with Question No. 55.

Museum Projects

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

63 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the contact or discussions between him and the Bank of Ireland on making the Bank of Ireland premises in College Green, Dublin 2, available as a public building for use for cultural purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29857/11]

I refer the Deputy to my previous replies on this matter on 24 May, 2 June and 14 September 2011. I have met the Chair and Chief Executive of Bank of Ireland and had a constructive engagement on the issues. That engagement will continue.

Arts Policy

Seán Crowe

Question:

64 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the efforts he has made in co-operation with the Department of Education and Skills to increase participation in the arts at primary and secondary school level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29859/11]

Since assuming the role of Minister for the Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, I have had discussions with the Minister for Education and Skills to explore ways to improve participation in the arts within the education system. Arising from these discussions, senior officials from my Department and the Department of Education and skills are now examining a number of initiatives to address arts in education.

Irish Museum of Modern Art

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

65 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if, in view of the planned closure of the Irish Museum of Modern Art from November 2011 to January 2013, he will provide an outline of the schedule of works; the position regarding staff during renovations; if he will give confirmation that it will open again; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29880/11]

The primary purpose of the works at the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) is to upgrade to modern standards the fire, safety and security systems in the premises. The work will be carried out in different phases over the course of 2012 and will consist of external works in the grounds to install new security infrastructure, the provision of a new security room within the building, rewiring for the new systems on the three floors of the East, West and South wings, which will involve the stripping out of all the old systems, lifting of floorboards, taking down ceilings and their subsequent reinstatement, and the installation of additional fire stopping measures.

IMMA will retain a presence at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham (RHK) site during its closure via its exhibition programme in the New Galleries and the Artists' Residency Programme. The café, bookshop and grounds will also remain open to visitors. All other IMMA staff will move to alternative accommodation during the period of the closure of the RHK site and this process has just commenced in relation to administrative staff. The works are due to be completed in time for IMMA/RHK to re-open in early 2013. Meanwhile, IMMA, my Department and OPW are working to relocate the IMMA exhibition programme to the site used by Dublin Contemporary 2011 at the National Concert Hall complex at Earlsfort Terrace for Spring 2012.

Appointments to State Boards

Michael McGrath

Question:

66 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Taoiseach if he will provide a list of all appointments to State boards, including any appointments to the position of chairperson (shown separately) he has made since coming to office; the details of any remuneration or expenses arrangement that applies in respect of each appointment; the vacancies on the boards that were publicly advertised; and the prospective nominees that went before the Oireachtas committee for questioning. [29513/11]

The National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO) was established under the NESDO Act 2006 and is the body corporate for the National Economic and Social Council (NESC). It has been the previous practice to appoint the Secretary General of my Department as Chairperson of the NESC. Since entering office, in accordance with that practice, I appointed Martin Fraser, Secretary General of my Department as Chair of the NESC on 1 August.

I also appointed the following experts to the NESC in June:

Prof. Edgar Morgenroth, Economic and Social Research Institute

Prof. John McHale, National University of Ireland, Galway

Prof. Mary Day, Queen's University Belfast

Prof. Anna Davis, Trinity College

Prof. Seán Ó Riain, National University of Ireland, Maynooth

Dr. Michael O'Sullivan, Credit Suisse — London

Ms Mary Walsh, Charted Accountant

Dr. Michelle Morris, University College Dublin was appointed in July. The appointments were not publicly advertised but were made following careful consideration of the necessary skills, knowledge and expertise relevant to the functions of the Council. No remuneration is payable to persons for their membership of NESC, though members may claim expenses in accordance with the relevant Department of Public Expenditure circulars.

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

67 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Taoiseach the position regarding the Croke Park agreement; if he has received implementation plans for this agreement from his Department and each State agency under his remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion he has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29691/11]

Under the Public Service Agreement 2010-2014 (the Croke Park Agreement), detailed action plans have been developed across each sector of the public service to underpin the change and reform process envisaged by the Agreement. The Action Plan developed by my Department was finalised in January 2011 and published on its website. In May my Department reported for the first time on progress in implementing the Agreement, and is due to submit a second progress report to the Implementation Body shortly.

The National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO) is the only State Agency under the aegis of my Department. The NESDO, which was established under the NESDO Act 2006, is the body corporate for the National Economic and Social Council (NESC). The Office developed an Action Plan under the Public Service Agreement 2010 — 2014 in January 2011 and its first progress report on implementing the Agreement was presented in May. Their second updated progress report is expected shortly. Responsibility for the Croke Park Agreement in general is a matter for the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, and I understand that he has responded to the wider issues raised in this question in a reply to a similar question on 12 October 2011.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

68 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Taoiseach the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29787/11]

The National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO) is the only State Agency under the aegis of my Department. The NESDO, which was established under the NESDO Act 2006, is the body corporate for the National Economic and Social Council (NESC). No former employees of the NESDO/NESC are in receipt of public service pension payments so the question of savings does not arise.

Appointments to State Boards

Sean Fleming

Question:

69 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Taoiseach his role in relation to appointments to all State boards and agencies; his views on introducing a cap or ceiling to the number of boards on which one person can serve; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29982/11]

I appoint members to the National Economic and Social Council and the National Statistics Board.

The National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO) was established under the NESDO Act 2006 and is the body corporate for the National Economic and Social Council (NESC). The Act provides for the appointment by me of the Council on the basis of nominations received from representatives of trade unions, business and employers, farmers' organisations, environmental sector and community and voluntary sectors.

The Act also provides for the appointment by me of a number of public servants and a number of independent experts to the Council: the number of independent experts was increased to eight in the National Economic and Social Council (Alteration of Composition) Order 2010. I appointed seven independent experts in June and one in July. I recently appointed Martin Fraser, Secretary General in my Department, as Chairperson of the Office and the Council. The Statistics Act 1993 provides that I appoint seven of the eight members of the National Statistics Board. The Act provides that the Board consists of eight members, comprising the Director General of the CSO, who is appointed by the President on my nomination, and seven persons appointed by the Taoiseach as follows:

(a) five persons of proven ability and experience in relevant fields, two nominated by the Taoiseach and three nominated by such organisation or organisations as the Taoiseach considers representative of the users of official statistics and providers of information under the Act,

(b) an Assistant Secretary or equivalent or higher grade in the Department of the Taoiseach, and

(c) an Assistant Secretary or equivalent or higher grade in the Department of Finance . It also provides that the Chairman shall be appointed by the Taoiseach from among the members of the Board appointed under (a) above.

As has been the precedent, these functions in relation to the National Statistics Board have been delegated to the Chief Whip under the Statistics (Delegation of Ministerial Functions) Order 2011. No appointments have been made to the National Statistics Board since the Government took office.

The Deputy will be aware that the Government has put new arrangements in place for the making of appointments to State boards. Departments invite expressions of interest in vacancies on the boards of bodies under their aegis on their websites. Ministers are not confined to considering those who make expressions of interest but must ensure that all appointees have the relevant qualifications. In addition, those being proposed for appointment as Chairperson of State boards are required to make themselves available to the appropriate Oireachtas Committee to discuss the approach they will take to their role as Chairperson and their views about the future contribution of the body in question. Following that discussion, decisions are taken by the Minister or the Government, as appropriate, to confirm the nominee as Chairperson. The Government will continue to keep the arrangements for appointments to State boards under review.

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

70 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Taoiseach the saving to the State if all State agency board members’ annual payments were rescinded and instead board membership was awarded without remuneration. [30261/11]

The only saving that would arise in relation to appointments made by me relates to the National Statistics Board. Some €32,918 would be saved if the annual stipend payments to the members of the National Statistics Board were rescinded.

State Visits

Catherine Murphy

Question:

71 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if an invitation has issued to the Pope to visit here in 2012; if so, the issues that are anticipated in view of the range of reports of clerical child sexual abuse and the recent exchange between him and the Papal Nuncio; if not, if an invitation is under active consideration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29514/11]

An invitation has not issued nor is one currently under active consideration. As to the other matters raised in the question, I would refer the Deputy to the Statement of 8 September by the Government of Ireland on the response of the Holy See regarding the report of the Commission of Investigation into the Catholic Diocese of Cloyne, which states

The Government of Ireland thanks the Holy See for its response of 3 September regarding the report of the Commission of Investigation into the Catholic Diocese of Cloyne (the Cloyne Report) and the representations made to it by the Tánaiste in this regard in his meeting with the Apostolic Nuncio on 14 July 2011. The Government acknowledges and welcomes the statement in the response that the Holy See is sorry and ashamed for the terrible sufferings which the victims of abuse and their families have endured. The victims of abuse and their families must remain foremost in our considerations.

Having considered carefully the Cloyne Report and the response of the Holy See, the Government of Ireland remains of the view that the content of the confidential letter in 1997 from the then Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Storero, to the Irish Bishops, regardless of whether or not it was intended to do so, provided a pretext for some members of the clergy to evade full cooperation with the Irish civil authorities in regard to the abuse of minors. This is a matter of great concern to the Irish Government.

The Government of Ireland notes the comments in the Holy See's response on the political debate which ensued in Ireland after the publication of the Cloyne Report and in particular the statements made by the Taoiseach and other political leaders. The Government of Ireland must point out that the comments made by the Taoiseach and other political leaders accurately reflect the public anger of the overwhelming majority of Irish people at the failure of the Catholic Church in Ireland and the Holy See to deal adequately with clerical child sexual abuse and those who committed such appalling acts.

It is the Government of Ireland's hope that, in spite of outstanding differences, lessons have been learned from appalling past failures. In this regard, it welcomes the commitment in the concluding remarks of the Holy See's response to a constructive dialogue and cooperation with the Government. In welcoming this commitment, the Government expects the fullest cooperation from the Holy See, the Catholic Church in Ireland and all other relevant bodies with a view to ensuing that Ireland is a society fully safe for children and minors and that all of those with responsibility for the welfare and care of children in this country are fully subject to Irish laws and requirements.

Global Irish Economic Forum

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

72 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the cost benefit of Farmleigh’s conference on job creation in 2010. [28890/11]

The first meeting of the Global Irish Economic Forum was held at the Farmleigh Estate in Dublin from 18-20 September, 2009. It was convened by the then Government with two broad goals: to explore how the Irish at home and abroad could work together and contribute to our economic recovery; and to examine ways in which Ireland and its global community could develop a more strategic relationship with each other. Some 130 leading Irish connected individuals living abroad from the business and cultural sectors attended the Forum. The overall cost of the Forum was €330,000. The formal report of the Forum sets out 59 specific and medium term objectives identified at the 2009 Forum. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade published updates in April and October, 2010 and in April 2011. These updates, which are available on the Forum's website www.globalirishforum.ie, demonstrate the significant number of proposals that have either been fully or substantively delivered by Government.

Some of the initiatives were general or thematic in nature and covered a range of sectors including: innovation; education; tourism; culture; diaspora engagement and network development. Other proposals were more specific and project orientated. The report "The First Global Irish Economic Forum — Two Years On" was prepared for participants at the 2011 Forum and provides an indication of the progress achieved on a number of the key initiatives, and a copy is being forwarded to the Deputy.

In addition to the specific initiatives, one of the most significant long term outcomes from the 2009 Forum was the significant increase in awareness it generated here within the public and private sectors of the importance of the Diaspora as a source of soft power. As a direct consequence of the Forum, many private and public sector entities now include a Diaspora dimension in their business planning strategies.

The Deputy will also wish to note that the Comptroller and Auditor General included a chapter on the 2009 Forum in his 2010 Annual Report which noted a "reasonable level of tracking and reporting". The second Global Irish Economic Forum took place in Dublin Castle on 7- 8 October, 2011 and the formal report of the Forum will be available shortly.

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

73 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding the Croke Park agreement; if he has received implementation plans for this agreement from his Department and each State agency under his remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion he has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29686/11]

The Public Service Agreement, 2010-2014 (the Croke Park agreement) provides a framework for public service management and staff to work together to reduce the cost of delivery of public services while also maintaining or improving the quality of those services. An Implementation Body was established to drive the implementation of the Agreement across all sectors and ensure that early, robust and verifiable reforms were secured which would in turn lead to verifiable and sustainable savings in the cost of public service delivery. My Department's initial Action Plan under the Croke Park Agreement was submitted to the Implementation Body in October 2010, followed by a second iteration in early January 2011. The initiatives in the Action Plan, which build on on-going reforms in the Department's business processes, are kept under continuous review and have yielded significant savings in the administrative costs of running the Department. These reforms are contributing to the effort to meet the challenge of maintaining the range, quality and geographic scope of the policy, programme management, promotional and front-line citizen services provided by the Department with the reduced resources available.

The Department regularly reports to the Implementation Body, most recently this week, on progress made in implementing the actions specified in our Action plan as well as on savings being achieved. These progress and savings reports are published on the Department's and the Implementation Body's websites. My Department is fully cognisant of the extremely difficult economic and budgetary circumstances facing the State. Under my direction, it remains fully committed to ensuring that its responsibilities are fulfilled and that the frontline services it provides to the public are delivered as cost-effectively as possible. It is working hard to achieve reforms and savings within the specified timeframes and I am very satisfied with the progress being made in this regard. There are no State bodies under the aegis of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform has overall responsibility for coordinating the implementation of the Croke Park Agreement and for leading any discussions that may be appropriate with representatives of the EU or the IMF on that subject.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

74 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29781/11]

There are no State agencies under the aegis of my Department. However, I can advise the Deputy that three individuals who retired from the former Agency for Personal Service Overseas (APSO), which was integrated into my Department in 2004, are in receipt of pensions direct from the Department. The annual amount in each case is less than €35,000.

EU Funding

Pádraig Mac Lochlainn

Question:

75 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his view on whether it is appropriate that Israeli arms companies (details supplied) that participate in the construction of Israel’s illegal wall and private companies based in illegal Israeli settlements receive EU funding through the seventh framework programme; the steps he is taking to ensure that such companies will not be able to participate in Horizon 2020; and his view on basing the rules for participation in Horizon 2020 on the UN guidelines for businesses and human rights. [30149/11]

Israel is one of a number of third countries participating as "associated countries" in the Seventh Framework Programme for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007-2013). Such participation is governed by science and technology agreements concluded with each country concerned. The agreement with Israel was signed on 16 July 2007, with provisional application from 1 January 2007, and entered into force on 17 December 2008. Under the Agreement legal entities established in Israel are eligible for participation under the same conditions as legal entities established in the Member States. Israel makes a financial contribution to the Seventh Framework Programme in proportion to its GDP. This agreement applies for the duration of current Framework Programme. The Association agreement seeks to strengthen scientific and technological cooperation between the EU and Israel through the Framework Programme. Israel is a leader in many high-tech fields, and both the EU and Israel benefit from such exchanges. Israel is a small state with a large military sector, and most Israeli high-tech firms will have links or contracts with the military. However, the EU only funds specific activities targeting civil research that are clearly defined in the annual work programmes. No military research is or can be funded either directly or indirectly under the Framework Programme.

The Decision of the European Parliament and the Council adopting the Seventh Framework Programme provides that research activities supported by the Programme should respect fundamental ethical principles including those reflected in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. All proposals submitted for funding are subject to ethical review. The Government's position on Israel's security wall is clear: Israel is entitled to build such a wall if it wishes, on its own territory, but we do object to the large sections of it which are built on Palestinian land. Our problem is therefore not with the wall as such, or the companies involved in building it, as with the decisions of the government as to where it should run.

The EU has a clear position that the Israeli settlements on Palestinian territory are illegal, and a barrier to peace. I would agree that EU research funding should be consistent with wider EU policies. If the Deputy has evidence that funding to companies actually based in settlements has taken place I would be glad to see it. I understand that the rules for participation in the next Framework Programme — Horizon 2020 — will be set out in a Regulation of the Council and the European Parliament following a proposal from the Commission. When the Commission proposals are available they will be examined to ensure that procedures are in place to ensure that funding provided is consistent with wider EU policies.

Departmental Appointments

Gerry Adams

Question:

76 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Finance the reason he has decided not to reappoint a person (details supplied) to the European Court of Auditors. [29515/11]

Having taken all relevant factors into account, the Government has nominated Mr. Kevin Cardiff, Secretary General at the Department of Finance, for appointment to the European Court of Auditors. Mr. Cardiff will attend a hearing of the European Parliament's Budgetary Control Committee before his nomination goes to the Council for approval. As the Taoiseach said in the Dáil last week, "Mr. Cardiff carries with him a long career of distinguished public service here and the credentials to do a first class job in respect of the European Court of Auditors."

Appointments to State Boards

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

77 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Finance the remuneration of each of the five members of the Fiscal Advisory Council. [30013/11]

Pearse Doherty

Question:

102 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the operating budget for the Fiscal Advisory Council for 2011 and the expected operating budget for the council for 2012, including salaries, premises, communication and administration costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29997/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 77 and 102 together.

In the Revised Estimates for Public Services 2011 published in July, the Fiscal Advisory Council was provided with an allocation of €300,000 for 2011. As the Council was established at the end of June, this covers the six month period of July to December 2011 and covers a number of costs associated with establishing the Council. The Estimates for 2012 are currently being considered and final allocations will be set out in the Revised Estimates for Public Services 2012 as is normally the case. However, at the time of establishment, it was envisaged that the Council’s annual allocation would be between €400,000 and €650,000.

There are five members of the Fiscal Advisory Council. Two of the Council's members are Irish public servants and they are not paid for their service on the Council. In the case of the remaining three members of the Council, a stipend of €5,000 will be paid.

Betting Regulations

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

78 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance if he will extend the opening hours of licensed bookmaking premises, which it is estimated would result in additional betting duty of €5.28 million per annum to the Exchequer. [30074/11]

Brendan Smith

Question:

113 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Finance his plans to extend the opening hours for betting shops for trading in the winter months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30151/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 78 and 113 together.

The proposed Betting (Amendment) Bill, which is being drafted at present, will amend the 1931 Betting Act to inter alia establish the regulatory framework for the licensing of remote bookmakers and betting exchanges, including measures to enforce the regulatory framework. The extension of the opening hours of retail betting shops over the winter period is being considered in that context.

An estimate of the potential tax revenue the extension of the opening hours would generate is not possible to predict as it would depend on a number of factors not least the number of betting shops that would avail of the new opening hours. I note that the representative body of bookmakers has estimated potential additional revenue of around 5 million euro which would include betting duty, PAYE, PRSI etc.

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

79 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance if he will license the use of technology in betting shops, which, it is estimated, could bring in between €2 million and €4 million per annum to the Exchequer, and upwards of €10 million to the Exchequer if applied to machines in all other locations. [30075/11]

Brendan Smith

Question:

112 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Finance his plans to review betting legislation, particularly in relation to the possible introduction of new technology into betting shops; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30150/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 79 and 112 together.

I will not be amending the betting legislation to allow for the introduction of gaming or any other type of gambling other than that of bookmaking into betting shops. The Deputy may be aware that the Minister for Justice and Equality is currently preparing a comprehensive Bill on gambling; however, the Minister has stated that new legislation will prohibit fixed odds betting terminals.

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

80 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance if he will reform the approach to betting taxation to combine a licensing system applied to all operators, be they in shops, over the telephone, or online, with taxation on profits and not on turnover. [30076/11]

Brendan Smith

Question:

114 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Finance when it is proposed to introduce the necessary legislation to tax online betting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30152/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 80 and 114 together.

The proposed Betting (Amendment) Bill, which is being drafted at present, will amend the 1931 Betting Act to inter alia establish the regulatory framework for the licensing of remote bookmakers and betting exchanges, including measures to enforce the regulatory framework. The drafting of the Bill, which is fairly complex, is well advanced. The Finance Act 2011 contained measures to allow for the extension of the 1% betting duty to remote bookmakers and for a 15% gross profit tax to betting exchanges. The taxation provisions are subject to a Ministerial Commencement order which can only be commenced when the Betting (Amendment) Bill is enacted.

Customs and Excise

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

81 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Finance the amount it is costing the Exchequer to supply the security measures currently in place for the facilitation of the Smithfield horse fair, Dublin, in terms of Customs and Excise officials; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30148/11]

The Revenue participation in operations in Smithfield are part of our ongoing efforts to counteract the shadow economy with a focus on tax, customs and excise duty evasion. Many of the personnel participating on the operations did so as part of their normal duties. Some staff who took part in the operations were eligible for overtime and travel and subsistence payments. In 2011 these payments amounted €1,736 for overtime and €127 for travel & subsistence.

Financial Transactions Tax

Kevin Humphreys

Question:

82 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Finance his views on a European-wide financial transaction tax, FTT; if he will provide any briefing documents drawn up by him on the FTT to this Deputy; if he has conducted an economic impact assessment on the FTT for Ireland; if not, his plans to conduct one; if he has made any submission to the EU Commission on President Barroso’s proposals for an FTT; if he will provide a copy of such to this Deputy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29457/11]

The European Commission recently published its proposal for a Financial Transactions Tax, or FTT. My Department is analysing the detailed proposals contained in the draft Directive. The draft Directive will now be subject to detailed discussions at EU level and, as always, we will participate constructively in those discussions. There is no consensus as yet among European Member States on this issue, either about whether an FTT should be introduced, or what precise form it should take.

It is important that any proposal does not have the effect of encouraging relocation of activity or damaging the EU's competitiveness in financial services. It is for this reason that there is an emerging view that the EU and other international groupings, such as the IMF and G20, should move together in a global manner to avoid the danger of financial sector business gravitating to jurisdictions where taxes are not levied on financial transactions. Indeed the Commission has indicated that it sees its proposal as part of a wider development in this area.

In my view any tax would be best applied on a wide international basis to include the major financial centres. I also think it important that the proposed Directive would apply on an EU wide basis to prevent any distortion of activity within the European Union.

The Commission is proposing that the FTT should be an "own resource" tax imposed centrally to fund the EU and will be developing proposals in the context of the future of the EU Budget. However, we will need to assess the impact of this on our contribution vis-à-vis the current system based on Gross National Income.

My Department has not conducted an impact analysis as yet but it is consulting with various parties on the possible impact of an FTT. The EU Commission published an impact analysis simultaneously with the Directive and this is available on the Commission's website. I have not made a submission to the Commission on the proposal as yet since we will be participating, as is normal, in the detailed discussions within the Council.

Civil Service Staff

Gerry Adams

Question:

83 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Finance the severance or pension arrangement that will be put in place for a person (details supplied) if they depart from their position as Secretary General of his Department to take up a position with the European Court of Auditors; if they will be entitled to receive a pension; and if they will receive severance pay or any other payments or allowances. [29482/11]

On resignation from the Civil Service, the person will take up a post with the European Court of Auditors. Given that he is being assigned to a position abroad, he will not be entitled to the enhanced superannuation provisions under the TLAC retirement terms for Secretaries General provided for in the Government decision of 5 March 1987. He will in due course be eligible for the standard Civil Service superannuation benefits, which will not include severance or added years on foot of the aforementioned TLAC terms.

Banking Sector Remuneration

Michael McGrath

Question:

84 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance, further to Parliamentary Questions No. 92 of 30 June 2011 and No. 92 of 21 July 2011, if he will investigate the reason the information on bonus payments at Anglo Irish Bank which he promised would be made available to the questioner was never made available but appeared in the print media in recent days following a leak in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29489/11]

The assessment of the report into bonus payments at Anglo Irish Bank has taken longer than expected. However, the assessment has now been finalised and I will be in a position to make the information available to the Deputy within the next week. I regret the delay in this instance. I can assure the Deputy, however, that details of the report have not been leaked by anyone in my Department. The assessment and categorization of payments has just been completed by the Department in conjunction with the bank. The information will, as a matter of courtesy and respect be provided to the Deputy in the first instance.

EU-IMF Programme

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

85 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Finance the progress he has made in negotiations with the troika to achieve agreement for partial proceeds from the sale of the State assets to be used to fund domestic investment and stimulus. [28642/11]

The fourth quarterly review of the EU/IMF Programme of Financial Support for Ireland is still under way and is due to finish on 21st October 2011. The review comprises a series of meetings to evaluate all the elements of the programme covering fiscal developments including the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure and potential asset disposal, the macroeconomic outlook, progress on commitments in restructuring the financial sector and structural reform. Under the EU/IMF Programme, the Government is committed to considering options for an ambitious programme of asset disposals, based on the Programme for Government and the report of the Review Group on State Assets and Liabilities, and to preparing a draft programme of asset disposals in this context to be discussed with the External Partners in advance of taking final decisions on the programme to be pursued.

This draft programme is to include the identification of the potential assets to be disposed, any necessary regulatory changes and a timetable for implementation. As a signal of its intent in this area, the Government has announced that it is prepared to dispose of a minority stake in the Electricity Supply Board.

The use of the proceeds of any such asset disposals is a key issue for discussion with the External Partners. This is something on which we will continue to engage with the External Partners. The Government has already signalled its wish to retain some of the proceeds for reinvestment in job creation initiatives in the economy as part of the NewERA programme. Beyond this, I will not be in a position to comment any further until our discussions with the External Partners on the matter are completed.

Banking Sector Regulation

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

86 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance if he anticipates further stress tests for Irish banks in view of the likely impact of new stress tests in other EU countries on peripheral countries’ sovereign debt and the further impact on contingent convertible bonds and the capitalisation of Irish banks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29589/11]

The Central Bank has informed me that there are no formal proposals from the European authorities or otherwise in this regard. They have also advised me that as agreed in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and the Memorandum of Economic and Financial Policies (MEFP) with our external partners, a further Prudential Capital Assessment Review (PCAR 2012) will be carried out in 2012 to assess the adequacy of the capital of the banks at that time as part of an ongoing programme of capital review.

National Asset Management Agency

Dominic Hannigan

Question:

87 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Finance if he has drawn up any plans to make amendments to the governing legislation of the National Asset Management Agency to include additional objectives to the agency’s remit; if a social dividend is one of these objectives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29594/11]

I stated in the Seanad recently that I do not propose to change the NAMA legislation yet and that in the last three months, NAMA has been working more efficiently than was previously the case. The Deputy will also be aware that a senior international banker has been examining NAMA. I will consider his advice before deciding whether to initiate any changes to the objectives of NAMA.

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

88 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the Croke Park agreement; if he has received implementation plans for this agreement from his Department and each State agency under his remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion he has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29685/11]

Under the Public Service Agreement 2010-2014, detailed action plans have been developed across each sector of the public service to underpin the change and reform process envisaged by the Agreement. The Action Plans were first developed in October 2010 and subsequently revised in January 2011. Public service bodies in each sector were required to prepare their first detailed report on the progress being made in implementing their Action Plans last May and this formed part of the first annual review of the Agreement undertaken by the Implementation Body.

The second phase of progress reporting on the Agreement is under way at present. The Department of Finance will be submitting a return to the Implementation Body as part of this process. The return will reflect the functions of the Department of Finance following the establishment of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. It should be noted that it is the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform which has the responsibility for receiving the implementation plans for each Department and State Agency as well as the onward transmission to the Implementation Body of the aggregate material.

Sectors are due to submit updated progress reports to the Implementation Body during October. These sectoral reports will be examined by the Body and published on its website (www.implementationbody.gov.ie). It is expected that action plans will need to be revisited later in the year when decisions have been taken by Government on the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure.

The Government has indicated that the Public Service Agreement represents a key enabler to meeting its fiscal targets under its obligations under the EU/IMF Joint Programme of Assistance. The quarterly returns made to date by the Government under the Programme on public service numbers and the pay bill have indicated that the numbers of public servants are falling and we are on track to meet the existing target of 302,000 public service posts by end 2011. Similarly, the Exchequer pay bill return for the first six months is in line with the 2011 pay bill targets. The Government has indicated that it wishes to honour the commitments given in the Public Service Agreement. However, this will only be possible if the Agreement is implemented in full.

Pension Provisions

John Lyons

Question:

89 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Finance the rules governing access to an approved minimum retirement fund before the age of 75 years; and, specifically with regard to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11, if a new guaranteed income requirement applies. [29730/11]

John Deasy

Question:

94 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Finance the number of persons in receipt of approved retirement funds; the number in receipt of approved minimum retirement funds; his plans to change the existing ruling whereby a person is unable to access their retirement fund until they reach 75 years of age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29868/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 89 and 94 together.

These questions relate to the flexible options on retirement first introduced in Finance Act 1999. Prior to that Act, any person taking a pension under a defined contribution (DC) scheme or a Retirement Annuity Contract was required to purchase an annuity with their remaining pension pot after drawing down the appropriate tax-free lump sum. Finance Act 1999 introduced significant changes which gave a considerable degree of control, flexibility and personal choice to certain categories of individuals in relation to the drawing down of benefits from their pension plans. These choices include the options to purchase an annuity, to receive the balance of the pension fund in cash (subject to tax, as appropriate), to invest in an approved retirement fund (ARF) or an Approved Minimum Retirement Fund (AMRF), subject to certain conditions.

Access to these flexible options was extended to all main benefits from retirement benefit schemes (other than Defined Benefit arrangements) in Finance Act 2011. The changes made in Finance Act 2011 have particular relevance for ordinary members of occupational DC pension schemes in respect of the main benefits from such schemes, as up to the passing of the Act, the only option available to them in respect of those benefits had been the purchase of a retirement annuity after taking the tax-free lump sum. These individuals now have the choices referred to above depending on their particular circumstances. It should be borne in mind, however, that the option to invest in an ARF or AMRF as opposed to purchasing an annuity may not be appropriate for everyone.

Under the regime the options to — invest in an ARF, or — receive the balance of the pension fund in cash (subject to tax, as appropriate) are subject to conditions. The conditions include the requirements that the individual be over 75 years of age or, if younger, that the individual has a guaranteed level of pension income (specified income) actually in payment for life at the time the option to effect the ARF or cash option is exercised. Finance Act 2011 increased the guaranteed level of pension income required from the previous fixed amount of €12,700 introduced in 1999, to a variable amount equal to 1.5 times the maximum annual rate of the State Pension (Contributory) bringing the "specified income" limit to €18,000 per annum at present.

The purpose of the specified income limit is to ensure, before an individual has unfettered access to their remaining retirement funds via an ARF for example, that they have the security of an adequate guaranteed income throughout their retirement. The change to the specified income limit introduced in Finance Act 2011 was strongly signalled in the National Pensions Framework published in March 2010.

Where the minimum specified income test is not met, and an individual does not wish to purchase an annuity, then an AMRF must be chosen into which a "set aside" amount must be invested from the pension fund equal to 10 times the maximum annual rate of State Pension (Contributory) — €119,800 at present — or the remainder of the pension fund, after taking the tax-free lump sum, if less. Prior to Finance Act 2011, the "set aside" amount was fixed at the first €63,500 of the pension fund or the remainder of the fund after the tax-free lump sum, if less than that amount. The purpose of an AMRF is to ensure a capital or income "safety net" for individuals with pension income below the specified income limit throughout the period of their retirement. The funds in an AMRF can be used by the owner at any time to purchase an annuity. On death of the AMRF owner, the AMRF automatically becomes an ARF and any remaining funds may be passed on in a tax efficient way to a surviving spouse and/or children.

Prior to Finance Act 2011, if the minimum specified income test was not met at the time the option to effect the ARF or cash option was exercised and the individual placed a "set aside" amount in an AMRF, that capital sum was effectively "locked in" and could not be accessed by the individual, other than to purchase an annuity, until he or she reached 75 years of age (at which point the AMRF automatically becomes an ARF) though any income generated by the fund could be drawn down subject to tax. This was the position even if the minimum specified income test was met after retirement. Finance Act 2011 changed this rule so that where the minimum specified income test is met at any time after retirement and before age 75, the AMRF automatically becomes an ARF with full access to the funds.

As a transitional measure, Finance Act 2011 allows the previous lower guaranteed income requirement of €12,700 per annum to continue to apply for a period of 3 years from the date that Act was signed into law (6 February 2011)—

for individuals who had retired before that date and who already had an AMRF, and

for individuals who availed of the deferred annuity purchase option, had exercised the ARF (or cash) option within one month of the date of passing of Finance Act 2011 and who in exercising that option had transferred the requisite amount to an AMRF within that one month period.

This means that if such individuals satisfy the guaranteed income requirement of €12,700 within that three-year period their AMRF becomes an ARF. After this three-year period expires, the new higher guaranteed income test will have to be satisfied before the AMRF can become an ARF. The amount of guaranteed income required to meet the test will change in line with any future change in the maximum annual rate of State Pension (Contributory).

Where individuals do not meet the new specified income test and choose not to take the AMRF option, they can of course purchase an annuity. Depending on the particular scheme rules, the annuity can be designed to include features that best suit the individual's particular needs, in terms of how long the annuity payments may be guaranteed after death, whether they revert to a dependant after death and whether they remain at the same level or increase during payment.

There is no general requirement for data on the number of persons with ARFs or AMRFs to be returned to my Department or to the Revenue Commissioners. I am not, therefore, in a position to provide information on this point.

The Budget and Finance Act 2011 changes seek to ensure that those in pension arrangements to whom the flexible ARF options on retirement have been extended will have choices which best suit their particular circumstances. In making the changes, however, there was also a concern to ensure that the parameters and rules governing the extension are set in a way that avoids an increase in the risk of income poverty in old age. 1 The deferred annuity purchase option was introduced with effect from 4 December 2008 for members of defined contribution occupational pension schemes and allowed them to defer the purchase of an annuity for an initial period of 2 years, in light of the fact that pension funds had been adversely affected by the falls in equity markets and the more general falls in assets values. The deferral option was operated administratively by the Revenue Commissioners. The period of deferral was subsequently extended to 6 March 2011 i.e. one month beyond the passing into law of the Finance Act 2011.

National Pensions Reserve Fund

Timmy Dooley

Question:

90 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Finance if, in respect of the National Pensions Reserve Fund, he will provide the total fund value size of each six month stage since 31 December 2006 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29745/11]

The National Pensions Reserve Fund (NPRF) was established on 2 April 2001 under the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act 2000 for the purpose of meeting as much as possible of the cost to the Exchequer of social welfare pensions and public service pensions to be paid from the year 2025 until the year 2055, or such other year as may be specified by order. Subsequent amendments to the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act provide that the Minister for Finance may direct the National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission to invest in certain credit institutions, to buy Government bonds and, until 2013, to provide money to the Exchequer for capital purposes.

The total value of the Fund for the dates requested by the Deputy are set out in the following table:

Date

Published Value of NPRF (€bn)

31 December 2006

18.900

30 June 2007

21.032

31 December 2007

21.153

30 June 2008

19.462

31 December 2008

16.142

30 June 2009

19.406

31 December 2009

22.335

30 June 2010

24.062

31 December 2010

22.686

30 June 2011

20.828

Banking Sector

Pearse Doherty

Question:

91 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the position held by a person (details supplied) on the day Anglo Irish Bank was nationalised in 2009; the position they held the day after Anglo Irish Bank was nationalised in 2009 and the position held by the same person currently in Anglo Irish Bank; the roles and responsibilities held by this person in each case; the number of staff under their management in each case; the name of the person to whom they reported in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29759/11]

As the Deputy is aware the Board of the bank is responsible for the day to day operation of the bank, including the appointment of and assignment of staff within the bank. The Minister's approval is required in relation to the appointment of senior management at the bank. The person to whom the Parliamentary Question refers is not or and has never been a member of the senior management team of the bank.

Public Service Pensions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

92 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Finance the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29780/11]

In response to the Deputy's question, based on 2011 figures there would be a saving of €638,000 per annum to the Exchequer if pension payments to former employees of the National Treasury Management Agency, National Pensions Reserve Fund, National Development Finance Agency, National Asset Management Agency and State Claims Agency were capped at €35,000 per year.

State Investment Fund

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

93 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Finance when the proposed State investment fund or bank, as per the programme for Government, will be established. [28874/11]

Following a decision by the Government, I, along with my colleagues Mr Brendan Howlin, TD, Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, and Mr Fergus O'Dowd, TD, Minister of State for NewERA, announced on Thursday, 29 September, the establishment of NewERA and the Strategic Investment Fund under the National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA). The Strategic Investment Fund, which will be the forerunner of the Strategic Investment Bank, will, following appropriate legislative changes to the investment policy of the National Pensions Reserve Fund (NPRF), channel commercial investment from the NPRF towards productive investment in the Irish economy. As well as money from the NPRF, the Fund will seek matching commercial investment from private investors and target investment in areas of strategic significance to the future of the Irish economy. It will comprise a series of sub-funds targeted at commercial investment in critical areas of the Irish economy, including infrastructure, venture capital and provision of long-term capital for SMEs. The NPRF will take a lead role in the development and implementation of each sub-fund.

Question No. 94 answered with Question No. 89.

Tax Collection

Jack Wall

Question:

95 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare is entitled to a tax rebate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29897/11]

I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, based on records available, no tax rebate is due to the person concerned as no tax has been paid during the tax years 2007 to date.

Tax Reliefs

Simon Harris

Question:

96 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Finance the reason a person (details supplied) in County Dublin is being denied rent relief for the property in which the person is currently living in as a family home, in view of the fact that the person does not enjoy the use of any other residential premises; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29947/11]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the taxpayer had previously claimed, and was granted, rent tax credit for all years from 2007 to 2010 inclusive. No claim has been submitted for 2011.

Pension Provisions

John Halligan

Question:

97 Deputy John Halligan asked the Minister for Finance if he will clarify a matter (details supplied) regarding pensions. [29956/11]

The stamp duty levy of 0.6% applies to the market value, on the valuation date, of assets under management in pension funds and pension plans approved under Irish tax legislation. I cannot say what the precise impact of the levy will be on individual funds, schemes or members as this depends on whether and to what extent pension fund trustees and Life Offices decide to pass on the levy to individual members, given the particular circumstances of the pension funds or pension plans that they are responsible for.

I can say that the Finance (No 2) Act 2011 provisions which introduced the levy include certain safeguards in this area. The payment of the levy is treated as a necessary expense of a scheme and the trustees or insurer, as appropriate, will be entitled where needed to adjust current or prospective benefits payable under a scheme to take account of the levy. However, should the option of reducing scheme benefits be taken, it must essentially be applied in an equitable fashion across the different classes of scheme members that could include active, deferred and retired members. In no case may the reduction in an individual member's or class of member's benefits exceed the member's or class of member's share of the levy.

The Revenue Commissioners are also afforded oversight authority to review, where they consider it appropriate, instances where benefits are adjusted as a result of the payment of the levy to ensure that any such adjustment is in keeping with the requirements of the levy legislation. In undertaking any such review Revenue may consult with appropriate experts as they see fit. However, before Revenue could act in that regard, instances of concern on foot of actual adjustments made would first have to be brought to their attention.

As regards the questionable basis for applying the levy, the levy is a relatively small charge on the significant assets of pension funds, much of which are represented by investments outside of Ireland. As the legislation introducing the levy makes clear, it is for a temporary four year period only and pension funds are being asked to make a contribution to getting the domestic economy moving again over that period. This is a reasonable and targeted tax measure being introduced to fund the various measures set out in the Jobs Initiative. The country is facing an economic and unemployment crisis and the Jobs Initiative will help tackle that crisis and applying a temporary levy to pension funds is less damaging economically than raising other taxes.

Tax Collection

Dan Neville

Question:

98 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Finance, further to Parliamentary Question No. 19 of 21 September 2011, if a decision has been made on the internal review in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [29975/11]

The Internal Review has finished and its conclusions were issued on the 26th September 2011. The decision was that the person in question would qualify if the conditions to Section 472 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 were met. These conditions are: the employee is a "specified employed contributor" as defined in Section 472 or that the Income Tax (Employments) (Consolidated) Regulations 2001 have been complied with by her employer; the employee is a full time employee (i.e. is required to devote, throughout the year of assessment, substantially the whole of his/her time to the duties of the office or employment and the individual does in fact do so); and the amount of emoluments paid to the employee in the year of assessment is not less than €4,572.

Revenue needs to carry out a brief inspection of the records of the employer to ensure that the Income Tax (Employments) (Consolidated) Regulations 2001 have indeed been complied with. This inspection should be carried out shortly.

Financial Products

Peter Mathews

Question:

99 Deputy Peter Mathews asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding a matter (details supplied) regarding negative equity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29977/11]

The Central Bank has advised me that they wrote to all mortgage lenders to ascertain whether they were offering, or intended to offer, a mortgage product that would allow home owners to sell their existing home and transfer the negative equity portion of the original loan to the new loan. The Central Bank was concerned as to whether such products were in the long term interest of consumers as it could lead to indebtedness at a time when there was no certainty over the direction of future property values. In addition consumers would be moving to a new product and consequently those on tracker mortgages would move to fixed or standard variable rates which were generally higher than existing tracker rates. The higher rates would impact on the continued affordability of such mortgages and there would also be an increase in the loan to value ratios of many mortgages.

In response to the Central Bank's letter, only a small number of mortgage lenders said that they would consider offering such a facility, but it would be on an exceptional basis, would only be considered following an approach from an existing customer and would be subject to strict criteria in relation to debt service ratio, net disposable income, loan to value ratios, income multiples, credit history, transparency and suitability. A trial period commenced in mid-2011 and is due to be assessed by the Central Bank and the institutions involved before the end of the year. Any institution offering such a facility may only do so in accordance with criteria agreed in advance with the Central Bank and subject to a trial period. Consequently any arrangement that might be agreed with a customer would have to be in the context of the parameters set out above and not as a result of the introduction of a negative equity type product.

Tax Yield

Pearse Doherty

Question:

100 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the amount the income levy in place last year would have returned in a full year if all those under the tax net were excluded from it. [29978/11]

The Income Levy was collected by the Revenue Commissioners as a component of Income Tax. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that it is estimated that €1,446 million was collected from the Income Levy in the calendar year 2010. However, as is normal, it would have been expected that the total Income Levy liability for the income tax year 2010 would be higher at €1,710 million and the difference would have been collected in 2011/12.

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated full year cost to the Exchequer of applying an exemption from the Income Levy for income earners outside the income tax net in 2010, in addition to the pre-existing Income Levy exemptions, would be in the order of €215 million in 2010.

These figures are estimates from the Revenue tax-forecasting model using actual data for the year 2009 adjusted as necessary for income and employment trends for the year 2010. They are, therefore, provisional and may be revised.

Departmental Transport

Seán Kenny

Question:

101 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Finance the number of marked and unmarked cars, vans and jeeps that are currently in use by Customs and Excise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29990/11]

Revenue currently deploys 9 marked vehicles, including 2 mobile scanner units, and 164 other vehicles for operational purposes countrywide. Operations cover a range of Revenue activities including Customs and Excise work. Unmarked vehicles may be temporarily ‘marked' using appropriate signage when operational requirements prove necessary.

Question No. 102 answered with Question No. 77.

National Asset Management Agency

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

103 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Finance the amount of money lent or invested by the Exchequer in the guaranteed financial institutions and the National Asset Management Agency, broken down by institution, to date in 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30048/11]

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

104 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Finance the amount of money lent or invested by the National Pensions Reserve Fund in the guaranteed financial institutions and the National Asset Management Agency, broken down by institution, to date in 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30049/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 103 and 104 together.

In March 2011, the Exchequer provided a combined €3.06 billion to Anglo Irish Bank and INBS, representing the first instalment of the Promissory Notes committed to those institutions in 2010.

In June 2011, the Exchequer provided €25 million to EBS, representing the first instalment of the Promissory Note committed to that institution in 2010.

In 2011, at the direction of the Minister, the NPRF liquidated assets in order to set aside €10 billion in cash to meet the Fund's proposed contribution to the EU/IMF Programme of Financial Support for Ireland.

In July 2011, at the direction of the Minister, the NPRF invested the above mentioned €10 billion, €8,771 million in Allied Irish Banks and €1,229 million in Bank of Ireland.

€1,051m of the Fund's investment in Bank of Ireland was recouped from the sale of a portion of the investment to private investors. The proceeds from the sale (€1,017 net of transaction fees) are to be transferred to the Exchequer at the direction of the Minister for Finance, €233m was transferred in August. A second and final transfer of €784m is due to be made this month.

In July 2011 the Exchequer injected €3.883bn into AIB and EBS, of which €1.6bn was in the form of contingent capital and €2.283bn via capital contributions.

The Exchequer also injected €985m (net of expenses) of contingent capital into BoI (July 2011).

In July, the Exchequer provided €2.3bn of equity to IL&P, with an additional €0.4bn injected in the form of contingent capital (€2.7bn in total).

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

105 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Finance the amount of money paid by the guaranteed financial institutions and the National Asset Management Agency to the Exchequer and the National Pensions Reserve Fund by way of payment for the guarantee, interest, dividend or any other payment or repayment to date in 2011; the details of such payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30050/11]

The National Pensions Reserve Fund (NPRF) has also received the following payments in 2011. Directed Portfolio (Public Policy Investments made at the direction of the Minister for Finance) — €214 million in respect of dividends on preferences shares in Bank of Ireland. Discretionary Portfolio (the Fund excluding Public Policy Investments made at the direction of the Minister for Finance) — €200 million in respect of an Irish Life & Permanent mortgage-backed debt, which matured in July 2011; a €5 million interest payment in respect of an Allied Irish Banks Lower Tier 2 bond, which in addition was repurchased for €34 million in June 2011, and a €2 million interest payment in respect of an asset covered security issued by the Bank of Ireland Mortgage Bank.

In addition, and while not paid directly by a financial institution, by end-September €233 million in receipts had been paid into the Exchequer from the sale of part of the State's shareholding in Bank of Ireland. A further €784 million payment is due to be made this month.

Credit Unions

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

106 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance his views regarding the regulation of credit unions (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30066/11]

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

107 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance his view on whether specifying and laying down the total loan amount that can be issued each month is hindering the effectiveness of credit unions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30067/11]

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

108 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance his view on whether linking the total loan amount issued to cash received without reference to assets, reserves, liquidity and so on is hindering the effectiveness of credit unions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30068/11]

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

109 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance his view on whether imposing specific loan terms in addition to existing limits is not helpful to credit unions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30069/11]

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

110 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance his view on the fact that the approximately 400 credit unions are financially healthy, that they have €12 billion in assets, loans of €5 million and €1.7 billion in reserves, but over-regulation is actually threatening the stability of the credit unions by adversely affecting their most important source of income, loan interests; his further views on whether curtailing the ability to lend inhibits their ability to generate income; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30070/11]

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

111 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether the banning of all commercial business loans affects the self-employed, tradesmen, farmers and so on; his further view on whether this is affecting the effectiveness of credit unions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30072/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 106 to 111, inclusive, together.

As Minister for Finance, my role is to ensure that the legal framework for credit unions is appropriate for the effective operation and supervision of credit unions. It would not be appropriate for me, as Minister for Finance, to examine or adjudicate on whether the placing of lending restrictions is necessary on a case by case basis. I believe that such action would represent interference in the work of the independent financial regulator.

The Registrar of Credit Unions has imposed lending restrictions on a significant number of credit unions in recent months. Within his independent regulatory discretion, the Registrar acts to support the prudential soundness of individual credit unions, to maintain sector stability and to protect the savings of credit union members. It is on this basis that the Registrar has put lending restrictions in place. Restrictions are imposed on a case-by-case basis and are reviewed regularly. The Registrar advises that no new policy is being implemented and that this is part of normal regulation and supervision of the sector.

The Registrar advises me that the restrictions are structured to allow credit unions to lend a higher number of small value loans to the broader membership, thereby reducing concentration risk. He also advises that initial analysis indicates that the credit unions which are restricted continue to have higher levels of arrears than those which are not and this remains a concern. The Registrar closely monitors and interacts with those credit unions where lending restrictions have been imposed.

Any restriction on a credit union is determined by the Registrar taking account of its financial data including the level of its lending, average loan size, its arrears trends and bad debt provision levels. Credit unions are able to continue to lend to members within their financial capacity to do so. If a credit union can demonstrate an improved financial position then such restrictions can be reviewed. The imposition of these restrictions is not considered lightly and the type of lending restrictions imposed takes account of the particular business profile and financial position of each credit union concerned. The type of lending restrictions can include maximum individual loan size and overall maximum monthly lending limits.

It is important to provide an accurate picture of the degree to which the Registrar has imposed lending restrictions and the type of restrictions being imposed.

About 50% of credit unions are subject to lending restrictions at present. Almost all credit unions with a lending restriction have a maximum individual loan size restriction. Of the credit unions with lending restrictions: 70% can lend €20,000 or more to an individual member; only 9 are restricted to loans of less than €10,000 to an individual member; and just 1 credit union is restricted to lending less than €5,000 per member.

With regard to commercial lending, commercial lending restrictions apply to approximately a third of credit unions. This does not preclude credit unions from lending small business type loans if appropriate in certain circumstances. It goes without saying that a credit union must have the relevant skill and expertise to evaluate and manage this category of lending and the resulting exposure to the credit union.

Question No. 112 answered with Question No. 79.
Question No. 113 answered with Question No. 78.
Question No. 114 answered with Question No. 80.

Appointments to State Boards

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

115 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Finance the saving to the State if all State agency board members’ annual payments were rescinded and instead board membership was awarded without remuneration. [30257/11]

In response to the Deputy's question, savings of approximately €1.121 million could be made if State agency board members' annual payments were rescinded in respect of State agency boards which come under the remit of my Department.

School Accommodation

John McGuinness

Question:

116 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to develop new school accommodation (details supplied) in Dublin 24; the contacts he has had in this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29469/11]

I can confirm to the Deputy that my Department is examining the accommodation needs of the school to which he refers. My officials will be in further contact with the school authorities as soon as this process has been completed.

Schools Building Projects

John McGuinness

Question:

117 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Skills the confirmed plans for a new school building (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29470/11]

The provision of a new building for the school to which the Deputy refers necessitates the acquisition of a suitable site. This is actively being pursued by my Department. Due to the commercial sensitivities attaching to site acquisitions generally, I am not in a position to comment further on this aspect of the matter at this time. Once a site has been acquired, the advancement of a building project will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on my Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

John McGuinness

Question:

118 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will present an update on plans to provide the long awaited extension at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24; if he appreciates the concerns of the local school community in the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29471/11]

The Major Building Project at this school is at an advanced stage of architectural planning. The design team is working on stage 2(b) of architectural planning, which includes applications for planning permission, fire certificate and disability access certificate and the preparation of tender documents. Planning permission was granted on 22 February 2011. Upon completion of stage 2(b), the design team will submit the required documentation to the Department. Subsequently, assuming no further issues arise, my Department will be in contact with the board of management with regard to the further progression of the project.

Special Educational Needs

Seán Crowe

Question:

119 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will reinstate the five special needs assistants that were lost to a school (details supplied) in County Wexford. [29474/11]

The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) for allocating resource teachers and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) to schools to support children with special educational needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support. This now includes a requirement for the NCSE to have regard to an overall cap on the number of SNA posts. The NCSE has now advised all mainstream schools, including the school referred to by the Deputy, of their SNA allocation for the current school year, taking into account the care needs of qualifying pupils attending the school.

The NCSE recently published statistical information on the allocation of Special Needs Assistant posts and resource teaching hours to Primary Special and Post Primary Schools. The information is provided on a county by county and school by school basis on its website, www.ncse.ie. The school referred to by the Deputy has an allocation of 18 SNA posts and 97.6 Resource Teaching Hours. It is considered that, with equitable and careful management and distribution of these resources, 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 recruitment and deployment of SNAs within schools are matters for the individual Principal or Board of Management. SNAs should be deployed by the school in a manner which best meets the care support requirements of the children enrolled in the school for whom SNA support has been allocated. It is a matter for schools to allocate support as required, and on the basis of individual need, which allows schools flexibility in how the SNA support is utilised. The NCSE will advise schools in the near future of a process to review allocation decisions to ensure correct procedures were followed and they comply with my Department's policy. The merits of individual allocation decisions will not be open to appeal under this mechanism. It will be expected that schools, before requesting a review, will be in a position to demonstrate they have made every effort to manage their allocation of SNA posts to best effect.

Seán Crowe

Question:

120 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will reinstate the five special needs assistants that were lost to a school (details supplied) in County Wexford. [29475/11]

The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) for allocating resource teachers and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) to schools to support children with special educational needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support. This now includes a requirement for the NCSE to have regard to an overall cap on the number of SNA posts. The NCSE has now advised all mainstream schools, including the school referred to by the Deputy, of their SNA allocation for the current school year, taking into account the care needs of qualifying pupils attending the school.

The NCSE recently published statistical information on the allocation of Special Needs Assistant posts and resource teaching hours to Primary Special and Post Primary Schools. The information is provided on a county by county and school by school basis on its website, www.ncse.ie. The school referred to by the Deputy has an allocation of 22 SNA posts and 84 Resource Teaching Hours. It is considered that, with equitable and careful management and distribution of these resources, 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 recruitment and deployment of SNAs within schools are matters for the individual Principal or Board of Management. SNAs should be deployed by the school in a manner which best meets the care support requirements of the children enrolled in the school for whom SNA support has been allocated. It is a matter for schools to allocate support as required, and on the basis of individual need, which allows schools flexibility in how the SNA support is utilised. The NCSE will advise schools in the near future of a process to review allocation decisions to ensure correct procedures were followed and they comply with my Department's policy. The merits of individual allocation decisions will not be open to appeal under this mechanism. It will be expected that schools, before requesting a review, will be in a position to demonstrate they have made every effort to manage their allocation of SNA posts to best effect.

School Transport

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

121 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of bus routes that are operational under the school transport scheme in County Cavan; the number of catchment areas; the number of students on each route; if changes to the school transport scheme mean that students outside a catchment area in which a service has been removed have to get a bus on another route; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29496/11]

I take it that the Deputy is referring to the Post Primary School Transport Scheme. There are seven post primary centres in County Cavan. Bus Éireann, which operates the School Transport Schemes, has advised that in the 2010-11 school year, over 1,600 pupils were accommodated on 58 vehicles operating on 58 routes to post-primary centres in County Cavan. In general, pupils who are availing of catchment boundary transport under the terms of the above scheme have to make their own way to and from a pick-up point within the catchment area of the school they are attending. If the Deputy has a particular case in mind, I will be happy to request a more detailed report from Bus Éireann.

Vocational Education Committees

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

122 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills the criteria that were used in making decisions about headquarters in the VEC amalgamations; if the criteria were based on current or future issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29497/11]

In arriving at my decisions on the location of headquarters of merged VECs, I considered a range of factors including the need to ensure the location of a VEC headquarters will, to the greatest extent possible, facilitate staff redeployment under a redeployment scheme within the context of the Croke Park agreement and the need to operate at lowest cost having regard to the accommodation available in existing locations.

Higher Education Grants

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

123 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of students that have been deemed ineligible for student grants due to the fact that their course is at the same level as one previously attended; if he will provide this information on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29498/11]

I regret that the information requested by the Deputy is not collated by the student grant awarding authorities.

Redundancy Payments

Dara Calleary

Question:

124 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Education and Skills when a redundancy payment will issue to a person (details supplied). [29517/11]

An application for redundancy in respect of the person referred to by the Deputy was received by my Department on 9 September 2011. Redundancy applications are processed in date order of receipt. Every effort is being made to process these applications as quickly as possible. Applications received in December 2010 and January 2011 are currently being processed. The priority of the Department over the past two months has been to ensure replacement teachers and special needs assistants being appointed for the 2011-12 school year are placed on payroll for payment. This process has now been completed. Extra resources are currently being assigned to the redundancy unit to try and ensure special needs assistants who have been made redundant will have their claims for payment processed as quickly as possible. My Department will also now prioritise the processing of redundancy applications from those SNAs who have not obtained alternative employment in a non-teaching capacity in primary, secondary, community or comprehensive schools in the current school year.

Schools Building Projects

Noel Grealish

Question:

125 Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will give a commitment that funding will be provided for construction of the school (details supplied) in County Galway in view of the fact that planning permission has been granted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29524/11]

Once a site has been acquired, the advancement of a building project will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in view of the priority being given to school applications for essential mainstream classroom accommodation to meet demographic demands which will be the main focus for capital investment in schools in the coming years, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time

The current status of all projects on the school building programme may be viewed on my Department's website at www.education.ie and this will be updated regularly throughout the year.

School Accommodation

John Deasy

Question:

126 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application for a multipurpose room in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Waterford. [29549/11]

The school to which the Deputy refers has applied to my Department for funding for the provision of a General Purpose Room. In accordance with the agreed criteria for the prioritisation of projects, the application was assessed and assigned a Band 3 rating.

Given the current financial constraints within which my Department is operating, the position is that priority is being given to school applications for essential mainstream classroom accommodation. In this regard, the delivery of new schools, together with extension projects to meet the demographic demand, will be the main focus for capital investment in schools in the coming years.

The current status of all projects on the school building programme may be viewed on my Department's website at www.education.ie and this will be updated regularly throughout the year.

Third Level Fees

Robert Dowds

Question:

127 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on changing the residency requirements for third level fees in order that a student who met the residency requirement at some point during their studies could be subject to lower fees for the remainder of their course. [29575/11]

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

I have no plans at present to amend the residency criteria of the Scheme.

Where undergraduate students do not meet the eligibility criteria of the free fees schemes, including the residency requirement, it is the higher education institution concerned that determines, in accordance with its criteria, the appropriate tuition fee (EU or non-EU rate) payable by such students.

Section 473A, Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997, as amended by Section 11 of the Finance Act 2011, provides for tax relief, at the standard rate of tax, for tuition fees paid in respect of approved courses at approved colleges of higher education including certain approved undergraduate and postgraduate courses in E.U. Member States and in non-EU countries. Details are available on the Revenue Commissioners' website at www.revenue.ie.

Special Educational Needs

Brendan Griffin

Question:

128 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a piece of equipment will be made available to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29582/11]

Under Special Education's Assistive Technology Scheme, the Department provides funding to schools towards the cost of assistive technology for pupils in primary schools and special schools for personal computers and specialist software. However, funding is not provided towards the cost of communication devices.

On 08 September 2011, a letter issued to The Principal of Nagle Rice Primary School sanctioning the following software: Laptop Computer, Printer/Scanner, Clicker 5, Boardmaker and Step by Step. However, the Schools application for Eye Gaze Technology was refused as this is a communication device and does not come under the remit of the Assistive Technology Scheme. I am aware that the HSE has provided once off grants under the Aids & Appliances Scheme for "low and high tech assistive technologies including communication devices and computer access software. This funding is dispersed by local HSE services to local community care clinics or voluntary agencies. Information in relation funding under the Aids & Appliances Scheme is available from Local Health Centres.

Weight of Schoolbags

Kevin Humphreys

Question:

129 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Education and Skills if there is a code of practice in place in schools to reduce the weight of school books that children have to carry home; his plans to work towards resolving this issue or directing schools to provide facilities to allow storage of books overnight; if teachers will be asked to ensure that pupils have to carry home the minimum amount of books; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29593/11]

My Department issued Circular M35/05 in 2005 to highlight the potential health hazard of overweight schoolbags and to outline a range of local measures that could be put in place to help alleviate the problem.

The circular referred to the recommendations of the previously published report of the Working Group on the Weight of School Bags. This report acknowledged that many of the solutions belong at local school level and made various recommendations in this regard, such as optimum use of storage facilities, developing pupil organisation skills and timetabling.

It is a matter for each individual school to determine which particular measures are most suited to its individual circumstances and to how the school concerned organises teaching and learning.

The circular and the report of the Working Group on the Weight of School Bags are available on my Department's website at www.education.ie.

School Curriculum

Michael McGrath

Question:

130 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the policy in place on the rights, if any, of children on the autistic spectrum to be taught some level of the Irish language, including children who attend ASD units attached to primary schools and who join mainstream classes for certain subjects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29595/11]

It is policy of my Department that all children attending primary and post-primary schools which are recognised by my Department should be taught Irish at a level appropriate to their ability unless otherwise exempted from the study of Irish in line with the provisions of Departmental circulars 12/96 for the primary sector and M10/94 for the post-primary sector.

Children on the autistic spectrum range from children who are high functioning and who have exceptionally good facility with language to those who are low functioning and may be non-verbal. Those who are at the higher functioning levels would be expected to be taught the full curriculum, including Irish, while those at lower functioning levels may be exempted from learning Irish where their circumstances meet the criteria for the granting of an exemption.

John Lyons

Question:

131 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to review the teaching of IT and computer skills at second level, including plans to review the existing curriculum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29600/11]

John Lyons

Question:

132 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to utilise the opportunity provided by a revised junior certificate programme to allow for students to experience courses such as IT, computer science or computer engineering; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29601/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 131 and 132 together.

The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment advises that ICT is not a stand alone subject but rather a tool to be integrated into the teaching and learning of all subjects, and this is in keeping with international practice.

The NCCA has developed an ICT framework for schools setting out the skills which students should acquire at different levels across the curriculum. This is supported by the Council's action website which sets out practical examples of how ICT can be embedded in teaching and learning across the curriculum. The schools ICT programme is continuing, under which €92m was provided in infrastructure grants to schools between November 2009 and the end of 2010. This programme provides investment in professional development for teachers (12,000 places for teachers were provided in 2010 alone), an e-learning handbook for teachers, the schools broadband programme and extensive digital resources on the Scoilnet webset.

I have just received the advice on the NCCA on the future direction of junior cycle, and my officials are examining the proposals at present and identifying the resource implications. Once these have been identified and the Government has been informed, a process of engagement will begin with the partners in education on implementation plans. One of the objectives of the reforms is to promote increased creativity and innovation and better embed ICT across the curriculum. There will also be the opportunity for short courses to be provided by schools, and each subject will be assessed by means of a written examination and a portfolio. Taken together the reforms will present further opportunities for strengthening ICT across the curriculum.

Higher Education Grants

Dara Calleary

Question:

133 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Education and Skills when higher education grants will be processed in respect of persons (details supplied) in County Mayo; and the amount each person will be awarded. [29608/11]

The processing of student grants is carried out by local grant awarding authorities: VECs and local authorities. The students in question should contact their grant awarding authorities to ascertain the position with their applications. The Deputy will appreciate that in the absence of all of the details that would be contained in a student grant application form, it would not be possible for me to say if a student would qualify for a grant or what level of grant they might be entitled to.

School Transport

Pat Breen

Question:

134 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason persons (details supplied) in County Clare have not been facilitated regarding their school transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29620/11]

Under the terms of the Primary School Transport scheme pupils are eligible for school transport if they reside 3.2 kilometres or more from and are attending their nearest national school. The family referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied are not attending their nearest school and are therefore not eligible for school transport under the terms of the scheme. Pupils who are not eligible for school transport may apply for concessionary transport provided there are spare seats available on an existing service. In this case Bus Éireann, which operates the School Transport Schemes, has advised that the service in question is operating to capacity and it is not possible to accommodate the pupils referred to by the Deputy.

Schools Building Projects

Noel Coonan

Question:

135 Deputy Noel Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the progress that has been made in relation to building works in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary; if construction has commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29655/11]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that this school building project commenced on site earlier this year.

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

136 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the Croke Park agreement; if he has received implementation plans for this agreement from his Department and each State agency under his remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion he has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29683/11]

In January 2011, my Department submitted a revised Action Plan for implementation of the Public Service Agreement in the Education Sector to the Implementation Body established by the Government to drive and monitor the Agreement's implementation. The Implementation Body published its first review of the Agreement in June 2011 which reviewed progress made and savings achieved in the first year of the Agreement.

My Department has received implementation plans and progress reports for the Agreement from the bodies and agencies under its remit, and these have formed the basis for the Education sector Action Plan and progress reports submitted by my Department to the Implementation Body. The second progress report to the Implementation Body, to report on progress made in the last six months, is in the process of being finalised. The Government has indicated that the Public Service Agreement represents a key enabler to meeting its fiscal targets under its obligations under the EU/IMF Joint Programme of Assistance.

School Inspections

Tony McLoughlin

Question:

137 Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he proposes to carry out a cost-benefit analysis of whole-school evaluations in relation to the amount of peripheral information necessary for inspections and the additional workload applied to our schools in view of the current challenging times in education. [29707/11]

I am pleased to advise the deputy that the Inspectorate of my Department is engaging in a continuing programme of reform and development of the range of inspection models that it employs, in fulfilment of its role under section 13 of the Education Act 1998.

Recent changes to inspection procedures include: a significant reduction in the volume of documentation requested from schools; a stronger focus on evaluating the learner experience in schools and on the quality of teaching across curriculum areas; greater emphasis on internal school self-evaluation and review processes; and the development of unannounced incidental inspection procedures for both primary and post-primary schools.

The reformed school evaluation processes are intended to be fair and reasonable in terms of what is expected of schools (including requests for necessary information) but they are also very clearly focussed on school improvement and ensuring that schools deliver effectively for all learners.

I should also note that the Inspectorate has developed additional materials to support schools in implementing school self-evaluation and is working with a number of pilot schools to develop these materials and processes further. This will ensure that robust processes of internal self-evaluation and external inspection can compliment each other to promote and secure continuing improvement in the work of schools.

School Curriculum

Tony McLoughlin

Question:

138 Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will cost the introduction of Project Maths in relation to the purchase of new textbooks for both junior and leaving certificate students. [29708/11]

Textbooks for schools are generally produced on a commercial basis by educational publishers. My Department has no function in regard to the selection of textbooks. This is a decision made at local level by schools.

It is the case that students would generally have purchased textbooks for maths in any event. My Department does not have an exhaustive list of textbooks available in Mathematics. However, examples of the range available include:

Understanding Maths 1 Junior Cert €20.95,

Understanding Maths 2 Junior Cert €21.95

Maths World 1 & 2 Junior Cert €18.50 each

Maths Volume 1& 2 Leaving Cert €16.30 each

Maths & Focus Lower Foundation Level €27.50

In the case of Project Maths, the website www.projectmaths.ie provides a range of resources for teachers and students, including teacher handbooks, teaching and learning plans, a student CD and booklet and interactive activities to accompany them, and links to additional resources provided by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment. Sample examination papers published by the State Examinations Commission for the Junior Certificate 2011, sample papers for the Leaving Certificate 2010 and 2011, and the actual examination papers for the Leaving Certificate in 2010 are also available at www.examinations.ie.

Teaching Council

Tony McLoughlin

Question:

139 Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will name three measurable improvements in education as a result of the introduction of the Teaching Council. [29709/11]

As the Deputy is aware, the Teaching Council has a wide range of statutory functions and objects, which include the regulation of the profession, the promotion of teaching as a profession, the maintenance and improvement of the standards of programmes of teacher education and training and the professional conduct of teachers and the promotion of the continuing professional development of teachers.

In carrying out its functions, the Teaching Council aims to promote and maintain the highest standards of teaching, learning and professional conduct in our schools. Since its establishment, much work has been done by the Council in the furtherance of its various aims, including, but not limited to, the establishment of the register of teachers, the publication of Codes of Professional Conduct for Teachers, the review of programmes of initial teacher education, preparation for commencement of the remaining sections of the Teaching Council Act 2001, and preparation of advice on a range of teacher education matters. Further detail on some of these follows:

In common with most self-regulated professions, the Teaching Council has established and maintains a register of its members. Currently, over 70,000 teachers are registered. The register stands as a verifiable expression of the standard of teaching, knowledge, skill and competence that teachers aspire to have and maintain. To be registered, a teacher must have attained a satisfactory level of professional qualification and training. Only persons who reach these standards will be able to work as teachers in State funded positions, except in limited time bound circumstances.

The Teaching Council has a statutory role in relation to the review of standards required for entry into the teaching profession, including the standards of knowledge, skill and competence required for the practice of teaching. The recent review of eight programmes of initial teacher education by the Teaching Council has provided an opportunity for the Higher Education Institutions concerned to demonstrate that they offer quality programmes of teacher education, and for the Teaching Council to make appropriate recommendations for the improvement of these programmes.

The Council recently published its policy on the continuum of Teacher Education, which was developed following significant consultation with stakeholders in education. The policy reiterates the critical objectives of promoting quality teaching and learning, as well as the centrality of the core values and professional commitments of the teaching profession. The policy will serve as the Council's framework for its functions relating to teacher education.

The Council recently also published criteria and guidelines for initial teacher education providers. These form a bridge between the Council's policy and the development and implementation of reconceptualised programmes of initial teacher education in Higher Education Institutions, providing clarity for HEIs to enable them to ensure that their programmes meet the Council's accreditation requirements.

Vocational Education Committees

Tony McLoughlin

Question:

140 Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on the rationalisation programme of vocational education committees; and if he will list three measurable improvements in education in the vocational sector as a result of the introduction of amalgamations. [29712/11]

The previous Government decided in October 2010 to reduce the overall number of VECs from 33 to 16 and agreed on the merger of particular counties. In June of this year, the Government confirmed a reduction to 16 but decided to revise the configuration agreed by the previous government.

The new VEC structure fits with the Government's policy of reducing the number of agencies and is consistent with the strategic objectives of the transforming public service agenda through service delivery by a smaller number of agencies, each benefiting from efficiencies of greater scale.

This change will better position the sector for future development particularly in the context of the work of SOLAS. It will also facilitate the required reductions, under the public service Employment Control Framework, of administrative staff employed in VECs, while protecting the services provided by VECs.

The new bodies will be better positioned to establish shared services and to provide support services to schools not just within the VEC sector but to primary schools and other second level schools in their areas.

The Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes estimated savings of €3m arising from the rationalisation programme. I am satisfied that a saving of that order is a reasonable projection in the medium term.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio

Simon Harris

Question:

141 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on the causes for a geographical area (details supplied) having the most overcrowded primary school classes in the country, according to a recent Irish National Teachers’ Organisation study; his plans to reduce class sizes in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29714/11]

Stephen S. Donnelly

Question:

177 Deputy Stephen Donnelly asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reasons for the discrepancy in average class sizes per county across the country; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that County Wicklow has the highest proportion of children in classes of 30 or more students; if he will give a guarantee that, should there be measures in budget 2012 to increase average class sizes, these will not impact on children who are already in classes of 30 students or more; if his further attention has been drawn to the fact that, according to the OECD, Ireland has the second highest average class sizes in Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30169/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 141 and 177 together.

Class size data for all primary schools is compiled by my Department on an annual basis and is available on the Department's website. The most recently published data relates to the 2010/11 school year. The staffing schedule is the mechanism used for allocating mainstream teaching posts to all schools. It currently operates on the basis of a general average of 1 classroom teacher for every 28 pupils. Schools have autonomy on how these posts are deployed to individual classes.

School authorities are advised in the staffing schedule to ensure that the number of pupils in any class is kept as low as possible, taking all relevant contextual factors into account (e.g. classroom accommodation, fluctuating enrolment etc.) In particular, they should ensure, as far as possible, that there is an equitable distribution of pupils in mainstream classes and the differential between the largest and the smallest classes is kept to a minimum. With over 20,000 individual classes spread across all schools throughout the country there will always be differences in individual class sizes.

At this point I do not propose to give any specific commitment on the allocation of teachers to schools for the 2012/13 school year.

The number of teaching posts that we can afford to fund in schools is a matter that I will have to consider with my colleagues in Cabinet in the context of the next budget and meeting our obligations under the EU/IMF Programme.

The Government will endeavour to protect front-line education services as best as possible. However, this must be done within the context of bringing our overall public expenditure into line with what we can afford as a country. All areas of Government will have to manage on a reduced level of resources. The challenge will be to ensure that the resources that can be provided are used to maximum effect to achieve the best possible outcome for pupils.

School Accommodation

Noel Coonan

Question:

142 Deputy Noel Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding funding for a resource room in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary; if same funding will be provided; when a decision will issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29731/11]

I can confirm that the school referred to by the Deputy was approved funding for a resource room in July 2011. This resource room was in addition to a mainstream classroom approved earlier this year in January.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

143 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Skills the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29778/11]

The information sought by the Deputy is being collated and will be forwarded as soon as possible.

Schools Building Projects

Robert Troy

Question:

144 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the length of time it will take to progress an application for a new school (details supplied) in County Westmeath in view of the fact that all technical issues are resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29790/11]

The major building project at the school referred to by the Deputy was included in the Work Programme for 2011 announced last January. The Design Team are currently working on finalising the Stage 2(b) Submission (Detailed Design) which will then be submitted to my Department for review. Subsequently, assuming no further issues arise, my Department will be in contact with the Board of Management with regard to the further progression of the project.

EU Funding

John Deasy

Question:

145 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if the €35 million from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund announced for the construction industry will be accessible by self-employed persons whose businesses had been connected to the industry and who now have lost their employment due to the downturn; the criteria for access to this fund and if it only applies to PAYE persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29867/11]

On 7 October 2011, the European Commission approved co-financing of €35.7m under the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) in respect of three applications for assistance submitted in June 2010 for almost 9,000 employees made redundant at enterprises belonging to employers in the construction NACE 41, 43 and 71 sub-sectors between 1 July 2009 and 31 March 2010. These applications still require to be approved by the other EU budgetary authorities of the European Council of Ministers and the European Parliament.

The affected population of almost 9,000 employees were identified based on data held in the statutory redundancy payment system and in the FÁS redundant apprentice system.

Self-employed workers are not currently covered under the EGF Regulation for the period 2007-2013. A new European Commission proposal tabled on 6 October on an EGF Regulation for the period 2014-2020 does however propose the inclusion of self-employed workers. Discussions on the new proposals have not yet commenced at EU level.

School Accommodation

John Deasy

Question:

146 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application for additional accommodation for a school (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29869/11]

My Department is currently reconsidering an application for funding from the school referred to by the Deputy for the works in question. A decision will be conveyed to the school authority as soon as this process has been completed.

Special Educational Needs

Mary Mitchell O'Connor

Question:

147 Deputy Mary Mitchell O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on the setting up of a special class for children with mild to moderate educational disabilities in the Dún Laoghaire area of County Dublin, in view of the fact that a school (details supplied) is oversubscribed for September 2012, leaving many sixth class primary school students in the area with nowhere to go in September; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29870/11]

The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), is responsible for processing applications from primary and post primary schools for special educational needs supports. This includes the allocation of resource teaching hours to schools as well as the establishment of special classes in various geographical areas as required and the discontinuation of such classes where the need no longer exists. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such supports.

Second level schools which have enrolled pupils with an assessed special educational need are allocated additional resource teaching support on the basis of the pupil's special educational needs. Another specific function of the SENO is to identify appropriate educational placements for children with special educational needs. SENOs are a valuable source of support to parents who are actively sourcing a placement for their children. It is open to parents to contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.

Mary Mitchell O'Connor

Question:

148 Deputy Mary Mitchell O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding a school place in respect of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29871/11]

I wish to advise the Deputy that the enrolment of a child in a school is a matter in the first instance for the parents of the child and the Board of Management of a school. My Department has no role in relation to processing applications for enrolment in schools. The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is the statutory agency which assists parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child. The NEWB will try to help parents to find an alternative school placement if their child has been unable to secure a placement to date.

Where a school refuses to enrol a pupil, the school is obliged to inform parents of their right under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998 to appeal that decision to the Secretary General of my Department. Where an appeal under Section 29 is upheld, the Secretary General may direct a school to enrol a pupil.

The Deputy may be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), is responsible for processing applications from schools for special educational needs supports. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support. The SENOs co-ordinate special needs education provision at local level and arrange for the delivery of special educational services. They act as single points of contact for parents of students with special educational needs. Another specific function of the SENO is to identify appropriate educational placements for children with special educational needs. All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.

School Staffing

Finian McGrath

Question:

149 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills how the education system will survive the exit of many teachers in February 2012; and if it is possible to extend the redundancy plan until 2012 to facilitate pupils and schools. [29874/11]

The Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (No. 2) Act 2009 provided for a reduction in the remuneration of public servants. Section 3 provided that the reduction in pay would be disregarded in the calculation of pension entitlements for any person who left service before the end of 2010 or a later date specified by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform. The Public Service Pension Rights Order 2011 (S.I. No. 80 of 2011) sets 29 February 2012 as the later date. I am not empowered to extend this date which is of general application across the public service.

My Department is conscious of the potential impact of teachers retiring on State examination classes in post-primary schools. It is intended to issue information to schools on re-employing such teachers for the remainder of the school year where this is considered necessary to reduce that impact.

Traveller Training Centres

Finian McGrath

Question:

150 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will review a matter regarding the closure of a training centre. [29885/11]

The centre referred to is a Senior Traveller Training Centre (STTC) managed by County Dublin Vocational Education Committee (VEC). In line with the Traveller Education Strategy and the 2008 Value for Money (VFM) Review of Youthreach and STTCs, it was announced in Budget 2011 that an integrated further education provision for Travellers would be implemented through the phasing out of STTCs by June 2012 and replacement places, prioritised for Travellers, being provided under the Back to Education Initiative (BTEI).

I understand that County Dublin VEC has decided to close this centre as part of the implementation of the phasing out process and the learners have been given an opportunity to continue their education programme for this academic year at another STTC managed by the VEC.

Schools Refurbishment

Brendan Smith

Question:

151 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if further consideration will be given to an application for funding towards the provision of toilet facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Cavan; if this application will be urgently reviewed in view of the case made in correspondence to his Department by the secretary of the board of management; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29895/11]

My Department is currently considering an application for funding from the school referred to by the Deputy for the works in question. A decision will be conveyed to the school authority as soon as this process has been completed.

FÁS Training Programmes

Catherine Murphy

Question:

152 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the arrangements for training of new employees by employers; if there are interim arrangements with FÁS in such circumstances; if so, the budget available; the arrangements in place between him and the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation in respect of such training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28949/11]

I understand that FÁS Training Services has no mechanism to fund or part-fund the training of new employees or to provide or procure training or assist with providing/procuring training for new employees. However, new employees may enrol on a suitable FÁS night course for a fee.

In addition, through Skillnets, which is funded by my Department from the National Training Fund, employers can benefit from subsidised training for all their employees (both new and existing) by joining a Skillnets network. A full list of Skillnets networks together with contact details and other information can be accessed via www.skillnets.ie/networks.

Also, I understand that FÁS in association with my Department and the Department of Social Protection operates a series of training and employment supports to assist people with disabilities to access and progress in employment.

School Curriculum

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

153 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Skills his view on the possibility of making computer science a full syllabus subject at primary level and at secondary junior and senior cycle level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29922/11]

I have no plans to make computer science a specific subject in schools. The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment advises that ICT is not a standalone subject but rather a tool to be integrated into the teaching and learning of all subjects, and this is in keeping with international practice. The NCCA has developed an ICT framework for schools setting out the skills which students should acquire at different levels across the curriculum. This is supported by the Council's action website which sets out practical examples of how ICT can be embedded in teaching and learning across the curriculum. The schools ICT programme is continuing, under which €92m was provided in infrastructure grants to schools between November 2009 and the end of 2010. This programme provides investment in professional development for teachers (12,000 places for teachers were provided in 2010 alone), an e-learning handbook for teachers, the schools broadband programme and extensive digital resources on the Scoilnet website.

I have just received the advice on the NCCA on the future direction of junior cycle, and my officials are examining the proposals at present and identifying the resource implications. Once these have been identified and the Government has been informed, a process of engagement will begin with the partners in education on implementation plans. One of the objectives of the reforms is to promote increased creativity and innovation and better embed ICT across the curriculum. There will also be the opportunity for short courses to be provided by schools, and each subject will be assessed by means of a written examination and a portfolio. Taken together the reforms will present further opportunities for strengthening ICT across the curriculum.

Schools Refurbishment

Paschal Donohoe

Question:

154 Deputy Paschal Donohoe asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties facing a school (details supplied) in Dublin 7 in respect of concrete spalling; his view on the funding of repairs and remedial work through either the summer works scheme or the emergency works programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29936/11]

An application under my Department's Emergency Works Scheme for repairs to spalling concrete has been received from the schools referred to by the Deputy. The purpose of the Emergency Works Scheme is solely for unforeseen emergencies or to provide funding to facilitate inclusion and access for special needs pupils. 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.

As the scope of works for this project is outside the terms of the Emergency Works Scheme it cannot be considered for emergency funding. The schools have been informed of the decision. However, it is open to the schools in question to apply for funding under future rounds of the Summer Works Scheme to have this work carried out.

Teacher Training

Eamonn Maloney

Question:

155 Deputy Eamonn Maloney asked the Minister for Education and Skills the current number of students preparing to become primary teachers through the BEd programme in colleges of education; the numbers currently enrolled in the Hibernia College primary teacher programme; the number of graduates from each of these courses in the past three years; his plans to limit primary teacher supply in view of concerns regarding unemployment among newly qualified teachers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29946/11]

Anecdotal evidence indicates that there is an oversupply of teachers currently and that there are newly qualified teachers not yet holding teaching positions in schools. The level of student intake to the state-funded Colleges of Education is determined annually by my Department and it takes account of the supply of, and demand for, primary teachers. The level of intake to these Colleges has decreased in recent years in light of available resources and factors impacting on demand. This situation is subject to review.

My Department has introduced a circular which obliges schools to recruit unemployed teachers ahead of retired ones, in an effort to ease the difficulties for those who cannot find work in the profession.

In addition, the Deputy might also wish to note that the JobBridge National Internship Scheme has recently been extended to teachers. This provides newly-qualified teachers with opportunities to gain experience and to undertake the necessary teaching duties to complete the process of probation and fulfil the requirements for full registration with the Teaching Council.

The statistics requested by the Deputy are set out in the following table with the exception of the data from Hibernia College which will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it is received from the College. This data does not include the number of graduates from the postgraduate diploma in education (primary).

2011

2010

2009

Primary ITE Providers

Bachelor of Education Years 1-3 Current Enrolment

B.Ed Graduates

B.Ed Graduates

B.Ed Graduates

Mary Immaculate College of Education

1,239

407

377

353

Church of Ireland College of Education

94

31

27

23

St. Patrick’s College of Education

1,261

360

358

365

Froebel College of Education

199

63

75

66

Coláiste Mhuire, Marino

320

85

83

70

3,113

946

920

877

School Accommodation

Alan Farrell

Question:

156 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Education and Skills the schools in Dublin north in which prefabricated buildings are in use at primary and second level; the position of each school on the school building project in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30003/11]

A list of the primary and post primary schools in County Dublin that have rented temporary accommodation is included for the Deputy's attention. My Department does not hold such information in the sub-county format as requested. The Deputy may wish to note that in cases where schools have been approved for additional accommodation, schools have the option of building permanent classrooms or of purchasing prefabricated buildings.

The current status of all projects on the school building programme may be viewed on my Department's website at www.education.ie and this will be updated regularly throughout the year.

Rented Prefabs in Dublin — Primary and Post-Primary

(Please note that one prefab unit may consist of one or more classrooms and/or Ancillary Accommodation) — October 2011

Roll No.

School Name

Address

Town/ Townland

County

Desc. of rental

00697S

St Brigids Mixed Ns

Castleknock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

00697S

St Brigids Mixed Ns

Castleknock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

00697S

St Brigids Mixed Ns

Castleknock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

00697S

St Brigids Mixed Ns

Castleknock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

00752A

Central Model Senior Mixed NS

Marlborough St

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

01170G

Naul National School

Naul

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

01170G

Naul National School

Naul

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

01170G

Naul National School

Naul

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

01795A

Central Model Infants School

Marlborough St

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

01795A

Central Model Infants School

Marlborough St

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

01795A

Central Model Infants School

Marlborough St

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

06200O

St Mary’s BNS

Grotto Place

Boosterstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

07546J

Our Lady of Lourdes NS

Goldenbridge

Inchicore

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

07546J

Our Lady of Lourdes NS

Goldenbridge

Inchicore

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

07546J

Our Lady of Lourdes NS

Goldenbridge

Inchicore

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

07546J

Our Lady of Lourdes NS

Goldenbridge

Inchicore

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

07546J

Our Lady of Lourdes NS

Goldenbridge

Inchicore

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

07546J

Our Lady of Lourdes NS

Goldenbridge

Inchicore

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

07546J

Our Lady of Lourdes NS

Goldenbridge

Inchicore

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

09492W

Balscadden School

Balscadden

Balbriggan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

09492W

Balscadden School

Balscadden

Balbriggan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

09932B

Stanhope St Convent

Stanhope St

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

12014D

St Andrew’s NS

Chapel Hill

Lucan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

12014D

St Andrew’s NS

Chapel Hill

Lucan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

12014D

St Andrew’s NS

Chapel Hill

Lucan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

14180H

Holmpatrick NS

Convent Lane

Skerries

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16333Q

St. Patricks JNS

Skerries

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16333Q

St. Patricks JNS

Skerries

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16461C

St Finian’s NS

Newcastle Lyons

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16461C

St Finian’s NS

Newcastle Lyons

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16461C

St Finian’s NS

Newcastle Lyons

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16461C

St Finian’s NS

Newcastle Lyons

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16461C

St Finian’s NS

Newcastle Lyons

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16675V

Mulhuddart NS

Powerstown Road

Tyrrelstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16675V

Mulhuddart NS

Powerstown Road

Tyrrelstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16675V

Mulhuddart NS

Powerstown Road

Tyrrelstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16675V

Mulhuddart NS

Powerstown Road

Tyrrelstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16675V

Mulhuddart NS

Powerstown Road

Tyrrelstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16675V

Mulhuddart NS

Powerstown Road

Tyrrelstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16860Q

Corpus Christi NS

Home Farm Rd

Drumcondra

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16972E

SS Peter & Paul JNS

Chapel Street

Balbriggan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16972E

SS Peter & Paul JNS

Chapel Street

Balbriggan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

16972E

SS Peter & Paul JNS

Chapel Street

Balbriggan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17055T

Scoil Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17055T

Scoil Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17055T

Scoil Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17055T

Scoil Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17055T

Scoil Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17055T

Scoil Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17055T

Scoil Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17055T

Scoil Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17055T

Scoil Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17055T

Scoil Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17055T

Scoil Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17055T

Scoil Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17083B

Scoil Mhuire gan Smal

Dublin 8

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17472M

Hedgestown NS

Hedgestown

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17559B

St. Mary’s NS

Garristown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17569E

St Oliver Plunkett NS

Balrothery

Balbriggan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17569E

St Oliver Plunkett NS

Balrothery

Balbriggan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17691E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17912O

St John Boscos SBS

Navan Rd

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17912O

St John Boscos SBS

Navan Rd

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17912O

St John Boscos SBS

Navan Rd

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17912O

St John Boscos SBS

Navan Rd

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17912O

St John Boscos SBS

Navan Rd

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17953F

Edmondstown NS

Edmondstown

Rathfarnham

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17961E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17961E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17961E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17961E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17961E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17961E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17961E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17961E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17961E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17961E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17961E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17961E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17961E

Lusk NS

Chapel Rd

Lusk

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17977T

Scoil Aine

Raheny

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17978V

Naiscoil Ide

All Saints Drive

Raheny

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

17978V

Naiscoil Ide

All Saints Drive

Raheny

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18046A

Scoil Bhríde BNS

Church Ave

Blanchardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18046A

Scoil Bhríde BNS

Church Ave

Blanchardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18046A

Scoil Bhride BNS

Church Ave

Blanchardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18047C

Scoil Bhride GNS

Blanchardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18047C

Scoil Bhride GNS

Blanchardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18047C

Scoil Bhride GNS

Blanchardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18047C

Scoil Bhride GNS

Blanchardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18210K

St Michaels House Special School

College St

Baldoyle

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18210K

St Michaels House Special School

College St

Baldoyle

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18210K

St Michaels House Special School

College St

Baldoyle

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18210K

St Michaels House Special School

College St

Baldoyle

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18210K

St Michaels House Special School

College St

Baldoyle

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18210K

St Michaels House Special School

College St

Baldoyle

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18210K

St Michaels House Special School

College St

Baldoyle

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18210K

St Michaels House Special School

College St

Baldoyle

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18386B

Marist NS

Crumlin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18386B

Marist NS

Crumlin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18411U

St Marys NS

Bancroft Ave

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18411U

St Marys NS

Bancroft Ave

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18411U

St Marys NS

Bancroft Ave

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18412W

Scoil Phadraic C

Donabate

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18632N

SN Eoin Bosco

Navan Rd

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18763F

St Michaels Special NS

Ballymun Rd

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18763F

St Michaels Special NS

Ballymun Rd

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18763F

St Michaels Special NS

Ballymun Rd

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18778S

St. Mochta’s NS

Porterstown Road

Clonsilla

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18778S

St. Mochta’s NS

Porterstown Road

Clonsilla

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18778S

St. Mochta’s NS

Porterstown Road

Clonsilla

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18778S

St. Mochta’s NS

Porterstown Road

Clonsilla

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18778S

St. Mochta’s NS

Porterstown Road

Clonsilla

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18778S

St. Mochta’s NS

Porterstown Road

Clonsilla

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18778S

St. Mochta’s NS

Porterstown Road

Clonsilla

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18815V

Our Lady of Lourds

Rochestown Ave

Dun Laogharie

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18817C

Scoil Bhride

Ranelagh

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18976W

St Colmcilles BNS

Chapel Lane

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18976W

St Colmcilles BNS

Chapel Lane

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18977B

St Colmcilles GNS

Chapel Lane

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18977B

St Colmcilles GNS

Chapel Lane

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

18977B

St Colmcilles GNS

Chapel Lane

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19066L

Loreto Primary

Dalkey

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19220S

Scoil Ide

New Rd

Clondalkin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19220S

Scoil Ide

New Rd

Clondalkin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19221U

Scoil Aine

New Rd

Clondalkin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19221U

Scoil Aine

New Rd

Clondalkin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19221U

Scoil Aine

New Rd

Clondalkin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19259W

St. Patricks GNS

Foxrock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19319O

St Olafs NS

Balally Drive

Dundrum

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19319O

St Olafs NS

Balally Drive

Dundrum

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19319O

St Olafs NS

Balally Drive

Dundrum

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19374W

Our Lady’s Grove NS

Goatstown Rd

Goatstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19374W

Our Lady’s Grove NS

Goatstown Rd

Goatstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19374W

Our Lady’s Grove NS

Goatstown Rd

Goatstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19374W

Our Lady’s Grove NS

Goatstown Rd

Goatstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19390U

St. Marks SNS

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19435Q

St Francis Xavier JNS

Roselawn Rd

Castleknock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19435Q

St Francis Xavier JNS

Roselawn Rd

Castleknock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19435Q

St Francis Xavier JNS

Roselawn Rd

Castleknock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19435Q

St Francis Xavier JNS

Roselawn Rd

Castleknock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19470S

St Francis Xavier JNS

Coolmine

Castleknock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19472W

St Marks JNS

Springfield

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19472W

St Marks JNS

Springfield

Tallagh

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19472W

St Marks JNS

Springfield

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19472W

St Marks JNS

Springfield

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19472W

St Marks JNS

Springfield

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19510E

Talbot SNS

Bawnogue

Clondalkin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19510E

Talbot SNS

Bawnogue

Clondalkin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19510E

Talbot SNS

Bawnogue

Clondalkin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19515O

St. Teresa’s NS

Balbriggan Rd

Balbriggan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19515O

St. Teresa’s NS

Balbriggan Rd

Balbriggan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19515O

St. Teresa’s NS

Balbriggan Rd

Balbriggan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19515O

St. Teresa’s NS

Balbriggan Rd

Balbriggan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19535U

St Cronan’s SNS

Brackenstown

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19535U

St Cronan’s SNS

Brackenstown

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19535U

St Cronan’s SNS

Brackenstown

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19535U

St Cronan’s SNS

Brackenstown

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19535U

St Cronan’s SNS

Brackenstown

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19545A

St Patricks JNS

Corduff

Blanchardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19574H

Divine Word NS

Marley Grange

Rathfarnham

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19574H

Divine Word NS

Marley Grange

Rathfarnham

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19601H

St Philip the Apostle JNS

Mountview

Clonsilla

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19605P

Scoil Mhuire JNS

Blakestown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19624T

St Catherine’s NS

Kenure

Rush

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19624T

St Catherine’s NS

Kenure

Rush

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19624T

St Catherine’s NS

Kenure

Rush

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19625V

Scoil Realt na Mara

Balbriggan Rd

Skerries

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19625V

Scoil Realt na Mara

Balbriggan Rd

Skerries

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19625V

Scoil Realt na Mara

Balbriggan Rd

Skerries

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19628E

St Fiachras SNS

Montrose Park

Beaumount

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19628E

St Fiachras SNS

Montrose Park

Beaumount

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19628E

St Fiachras SNS

Montrose Park

Beaumount

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19636D

St Patricks SNS

Corduff

Blanchardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19636D

St Patricks SNS

Corduff

Blanchardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19636D

St Patricks SNS

Corduff

Blanchardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19636D

St Patricks SNS

Corduff

Blanchardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19636D

St Patricks SNS

Corduff

Blanchardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19643A

St Philips SNS

Clonsilla

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19643A

St Philips SNS

Clonsilla

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19652B

Sacred Heart NS

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19660A

Rush NS

Rush

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19660A

Rush NS

Rush

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19660A

Rush NS

Rush

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19660A

Rush NS

Rush

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19662E

St Michael’s Primary School

Dominican Campus

Ballyfermot

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19676P

Scoil Aine Naofa

Esker

Lucan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19676P

Scoil Aine Naofa

Esker

Lucan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19757P

St Michaels Special NS

Skerries

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19782O

St Brigids JNS

Brookfield

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19782O

St Brigids JNS

Brookfield

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19782O

St Brigids JNS

Brookfield

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19782O

St Brigids JNS

Brookfield

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19782O

St Brigids JNS

Brookfield

Tallaght

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19785U

St Bernadettes SNS

Quarryvale

Clondalkin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19785U

St Bernadettes SNS

Quarryvale

Clondalkin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19785U

St Bernadettes SNS

Quarryvale

Clondalkin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19785U

St Bernadettes SNS

Quarryvale

Clondalkin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19817H

Scoil Mhuire

Woodview

Lucan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19817H

Scoil Mhuire

Woodview

Lucan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19817H

Scoil Mhuire

Woodview

Lucan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19817H

Scoil Mhuire

Woodview

Lucan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19834H

St Aidans NS

Brookfield

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19834H

St Aidans NS

Brookfield

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19834H

St Aidans NS

Brookfield

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19834H

St Aidans NS

Brookfield

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19877C

Holy Family SNS

River Valley

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19877C

Holy Family SNS

River Valley

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19878E

Holy Rosary PS

Old Court Avenue

Firhouse

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19878E

Holy Rosary PS

Old Court Avenue

Firhouse

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19878E

Holy Rosary PS

Old Court Avenue

Firhouse

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19878E

Holy Rosary PS

Old Court Avenue

Firhouse

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19878E

Holy Rosary PS

Old Court Avenue

Firhouse

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19878E

Holy Rosary PS

Old Court Avenue

Firhouse

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19878E

Holy Rosary PS

Old Court Avenue

Firhouse

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19878E

Holy Rosary PS

Old Court Avenue

Firhouse

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19878E

Holy Rosary PS

Old Court Avenue

Firhouse

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19907I

Gaelscoil Mologa

Charleville Road

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19949B

Muslim NS

19 Roebuck Rd

Clonskeagh

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20012S

Griffith Barracks Multi D School

The Old Guard House

South Circular Rd

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20012S

Griffith Barracks Multi D School

The Old Guard House

South Circular Rd

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20028K

Setanta Special School

Stillorgan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20028K

Setanta Special School

Stillorgan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20028K

Setanta Special School

Stillorgan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20028K

Setanta Special School

Stillorgan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20035H

St. Gabriels NS

Cowper St

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20043G

Gaelscoil Chnoc liamhna

Sean Bhothar Chnoc Liamhna

Cnoc Liamhna

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20047O

Gaelscoil Bharra

Ascal an Fhasaigh

Cabra

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20047O

Gaelscoil Bharra

Ascal an Fhasaigh

Cabra

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20139T

Inchicore NS

Sarsfield Road

Inchicore

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20139T

Inchicore NS

Sarsfield Road

Inchicore

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20139T

Inchicore NS

Sarsfield Road

Inchicore

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20152T

North Dublin Muslim School

Cabra

Inchicore

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20152T

North Dublin Muslim School

Cabra

Inchicore

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20152T

North Dublin Muslim School

Cabra

Inchicore

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20168D

Glasnevin Educate Together NS

Church Ave

Glasnevin

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holly Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20190T

Holy Trinity NS

Glencairn Drive, The Gallops

Leopardstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20304I

St. Francis of Assisi

Belmayne

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20308Q

Belmayne ETNS

Belmayne

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20334R

Gaelscoil Ros Eo

Rush

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20334R

Gaelscoil Ros Eo

Rush

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20334R

Gaelscoil Ros Eo

Rush

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20348F

Hollywell ETNS

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20348F

Hollywell ETNS

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20348F

Hollywell ETNS

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20348F

Hollywell ETNS

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

20348F

Hollywell ETNS

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

60092U

Clonkeen College

Clonkeen Rd

Blackrock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

60092U

Clonkeen College

Clonkeen Rd

Blackrock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

60092U

Clonkeen College

Clonkeen Rd

Blackrock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

60343T

St Josephs Sec School

Convent Lane

Rush

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

60343T

St Josephs Sec School

Convent Lane

Rush

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

60343T

St Josephs Sec School

Convent Lane

Rush

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

60370W

St Fintan’s High School

Sutton

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

70010V

Balbriggan Community College

Chapel Street

Balbriggan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

70010V

Balbriggan Community College

Chapel Street

Balbriggan

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

70230M

Killester College

Collins Avenue

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

76062B

Castleknock Community College

Castleknock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

76062B

Castleknock Community College

Castleknock

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

76085N

Gaelcholaiste Reachrann

Grange Abbey Rd

Donaghmede

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

76085N

Gaelcholaiste Reachrann

Grange Abbey Rd

Donaghmede

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

76085N

Gaelcholaiste Reachrann

Grange Abbey Rd

Donaghmede

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

76085N

Gaelcholaiste Reachrann

Grange Abbey Rd

Donaghmede

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

76130P

Luttrellstown Community College

Luttrellstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

76130P

Luttrellstown Community College

Luttrellstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

76130P

Luttrellstown Community College

Luttrellstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

76130P

Luttrellstown Community College

Luttrellstown

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

81002K

Mount Temple Comprehensive School

Malahide Road

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

81002K

Mount Temple Comprehensive School

Malahide Road

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

81002K

Mount Temple Comprehensive School

Malahide Road

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

01795A

Central Model Infants School

Marlborough St

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

03359N

Ballyroan Boys NS

Ballyroan Road

Rathfarnham

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

19877C

Holy Family SNS

River Valley

Swords

Dublin

Pre-fab Unit

Bullying in Schools

Alan Farrell

Question:

157 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Education and Skills the guidelines he has in place for dealing with all forms of bullying within primary and second level schools; when they were last updated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30004/11]

Alan Farrell

Question:

162 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Education and Skills the guidelines or proposed guidelines he has to deal with social media bullying for children and teenagers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30009/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 157 and 162 together.

Under the Education (Welfare) Act 2000, all schools are required to have in place a Code of Behaviour and this code must be drawn up in accordance with the guidelines of the National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB). The NEWB guidelines were issued to schools in 2008 and make it clear that each school must have policies to prevent or address bullying and harassment and schools must make clear in their code of behaviour that bullying is unacceptable. The guidelines further state that as well as making explicit that bullying is prohibited in the school, and having an anti-bullying policy, the code of behaviour should indicate what action the school will take in relation to alleged breaches of the school's bullying policy.

Every school therefore must have in place a policy, within the framework of the school's overall school code of behaviour, which includes specific measures to deal with bullying behaviour. Such a code, developed through consultation with the whole school community and properly implemented, can be the most influential measure in countering bullying behaviour in schools.

Responsibility for tackling bullying falls to the level of the individual school, as it is at local level that an effective anti-bullying climate must be established and at that level that actions should be taken to address allegations of bullying.

In 1993, my Department issued Guidelines on Countering Bullying Behaviour as an aid to schools in devising measures to prevent and deal with instances of bullying behaviour. These guidelines were drawn up following consultation with representatives of school management, teachers and parents, and are sufficiently flexible to allow each school authority to adapt them to suit the particular needs of their school.

As a further aid to post-primary schools my Department published in 2007 a template that can be used by post-primary schools in developing an anti-bullying policy. The anti-bullying policy template is based primarily on the key document Guidelines on Countering Bullying Behaviour. However, it also takes account of more recent legislative and regulatory changes, and reference is made to issues of contemporary concern such as the need to tackle text bullying, cyber-bullying and homophobic bullying.

When a Whole School Evaluation (WSE) is conducted by my Department's Inspectorate, the code of behaviour, including its anti-bullying policy, is reviewed by the inspection team to check that it is in line with the Department's guidelines. Inspectors normally meet with the principal, the board, post-holders, year heads, class teachers, programme co-ordinators, the pastoral care team, representatives of the students and parents. During these meetings there is a particular emphasis on the quality of student care and support. The inspectors' evaluation is also informed by observations in classroom settings and throughout the school. Where there are weaknesses in a school's policy or implementation of policies clear recommendations for improvement are made and are included in the published report of the inspection.

Revised procedures for WSE in schools have recently been put in place. A new element of the revised WSE process involves the issuing of questionnaires directly to pupils and parents. Children and parents will be asked to respond to questions about how the school deals with bullying, discipline in the school and whether or not the school provides a safe environment for children. This enhanced engagement with parents and pupils through questionnaires aims to further support all schools to implement effective measures to counter bullying.

The Deputy may also be aware that the education of students in both primary and post-primary schools in relation to anti-bullying behaviour is part of the Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE) curriculum. SPHE is now a compulsory subject both at primary level and in the junior cycle of post-primary schools. Since 2001, national professional development support services have provided ongoing support to schools in planning policies on child protection and the code of behaviour and in supporting teachers and principals in the implementation of SPHE. In addition, training on The Stay Safe Programme is offered on an ongoing basis to primary schools.

Other measures in place include the Webwise Internet Safety Initiative, the EU Safer Internet Programme campaign and the establishment of the National Behaviour Support Service (NBSS) which is currently working with over 80 post-primary schools to promote and support positive student behaviour.

Mental Health Services

Alan Farrell

Question:

158 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Education and Skills his policies or future proposals to prevent mental health issues in students at primary and secondary level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30005/11]

Alan Farrell

Question:

159 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Education and Skills the resources in place within schools for children with diagnosed or suspected mental health issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30006/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 158 and 159 together.

The Social Personal and Health Education (SPHE) programme is a mandatory part of the curriculum in primary schools and in junior cycle since 2003 and is designed to promote positive mental health. It is supported by comprehensive teacher guidelines and curriculum support services which provide training and advice for schools and a resource directory. Its aim is to foster personal development, health and well being of children, to help them create and maintain supportive relationships, and develop the skills and attitudes for responsible citizenship.

All post-primary schools also provide a guidance and counselling service for their students and they receive ex-quota hours from the Department for this provision. The service includes the provision of individual guidance and counselling for students either at critical stages in their education or at times of personal crisis.

Schools also use Mental Health Matters, a resource pack on mental health for 14 to 18 year olds developed by Mental Health Ireland on an optional basis as a module in the Transition Year Programme, an element of the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme, a component of the SPHE programme or an element of other subjects such as Religion or Home Economics. Psychologists from my Department's National Educational Psychological Service are present in schools across the country and provide a range of supports to school authorities and communities which include both the promotion of positive mental health among the general student body and assistance in supporting pupils with particular social emotional or behavioural difficulties. NEPS promotes the development of structures and supports among teachers and schools care teams which assists and encourages the development of contact and collaboration with the relevant local HSE mental health agencies including the Community Psychology Services and Mental Health Promotion Officers and the referral services of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAHMS).

My Department also provides a range of teaching and care supports for children of school-going age with special educational needs, including children with Emotional Disturbance and Severe Emotional Disturbance. The precise level of support is determined by the special educational needs of the particular child.

Children with Emotional Disturbance/ Severe Emotional Disturbance may be entitled to additional provision in school, either under the terms of the General Allocation Model (GAM) of teaching supports, if the pupil's educational psychological assessment places the pupil in the mild general learning disability/high incidence disability category, or through an allocation of individual additional resource teaching hours if the child is assessed as being within the low incidence category of special need, as defined by my Department's Circular Sp Ed 02/05. Pupils who have care needs may also receive access to Special Needs Assistant support.

It is a matter for each individual school to use its professional judgement to use the resources available to the school to intervene at the appropriate level with such pupils. My Department has provided a range of advice to schools on the matter of whole-school planning by means of various publications including Circular SP ED 02/05, the Learning Support Guidelines and the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) booklet ‘A Continuum of Support'.

Schools should use the guidance in the documents that have been provided to develop policies and procedures to suit the circumstances of the school and the needs of the pupils. It is open to schools to seek advice of their NEPS psychologist to seek further guidance and advice in relation to the establishment of whole-school procedures.

Finally, the Deputy is aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), for allocating resources to schools to support children with special educational needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support.

Alan Farrell

Question:

160 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which teachers are trained to provide counselling, support and development therapy for children with mental health issues; if there are any proposals in place to improve the availability of counselling services for students within schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30007/11]

Alan Farrell

Question:

161 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Education and Skills if teachers at primary and second level are trained to recognise symptoms of mental health disorder in students; if not, his plans to introduce this at a later date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30008/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 160 and 161 together.

Student teachers in the Primary Colleges of Education are supported across a range of courses to identify children who are at risk from a variety of causes, including those that would contribute to issues around mental health. These courses include Psychology, Sociology, Social Personal and Health Education and aspects of Teaching Studies. While counselling children with mental health issues is best undertaken by professionals in that area and not by teachers, it is important that student teachers have the knowledge and skills needed to identify the need for early intervention.

At post-primary. student teachers have courses in educational psychology and in special education needs. These courses prepare them to recognise common special needs in students and to respond appropriately in their teaching. They also learn about adolescent development and some of the psychological stresses that may occur. They are not specifically prepared to recognise or diagnose any specific mental health disorders, or to determine the appropriate treatment of these disorders.

The Social Personal and Health Education (SPHE) programme is a mandatory part of the curriculum in junior cycle since 2003 and is designed to promote positive mental health. It is already supported by comprehensive teacher guidelines and curriculum support services which provide training and advice for schools and a resource directory. Its aim is to foster personal development, health and well being of children, to help them create and maintain supportive relationships, and develop the skills and attitudes for responsible citizenship. It is designed for implementation in the context of a caring whole-school approach which is supported by the pastoral care structures in schools and provides opportunities to teachers to train in the area of Mental Health.

The Support Service have collaborated with the Mater Child and Adolescent Health Service to develop a resource for schools called "Working Things Out" through SPHE. This resource contains classroom materials on a number of mental health issues and is given to teachers as part of the mental health training course. It also assists teachers in recognising early indications of mental health condition in pupils. The SPHE Support Service is also currently working with the National Office of Suicide Prevention and the HSE to develop guidelines for schools on mental health promotion.

Schools also use Mental Health Matters, a resource pack on mental health for 14 to 18 year olds developed by Mental Health Ireland on an optional basis as a module in the Transition Year Programme, an element of the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme, a component of the SPHE programme or an element of other subjects such as Religion or Home Economics. All post-primary schools also provide a guidance and counselling service which is available for their students and they receive ex-quota hours from the Department for this provision. My Department recognises qualifications specifically for the purpose of guidance at post primary level. The service availability is adequate and includes the provision of individual guidance and counselling for students either at critical stages in their education or at times of personal crisis. My Department funds the provision of ongoing professional support through a Counselling Supervision service, providing advice and sharing practice on issues of concern.

Psychologists from my Department's National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) are present in schools across the country and provide a range of supports to school authorities and communities which include both the promotion of positive mental health among the general student body and assistance in supporting pupils with particular social emotional or behavioural difficulties. NEPS promotes the development of structures and supports among teachers and schools care teams which assists and encourages the development of contact and collaboration with the relevant local HSE mental health agencies including the Community Psychology Services and Mental Health Promotion Officers and the referral services of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAHMS).

Question No. 162 answered with Question No. 157.

Departmental Expenditure

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

163 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Skills the cost for the printing, posting and administration of payslips to primary school teachers. [30015/11]

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

164 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Skills the cost for the printing, posting and administration of payslips to secondary school teachers. [30016/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 163 and 164 together.

Details of the costs associated with the printing, posting and administration of payslips to primary and post-primary teachers are set out in tabular format below.

Printing Costs for the Primary and Post Primary Payslips

Primary 2010

€40,758.00

Primary 2011 to date

€36,474.00

Post Primary 2010

€36,474.00

Post Primary 2011 to date

€26,053.00

Postage Costs for the Primary and Post Primary Payslips

Primary 2010

€523,626.66

Primary 2011 to date

€427,311.58

Post Primary 2010

€299,378.28

Post Primary 2011

€219,095.16

Administration Costs (based on average salaries by grade)

Primary 2010

€50,933

Primary 2011 to date

€33,619

Post Primary 2010

€39,432

Post Primary 2011 to date

€25,861

Vocational Education Committees

Brendan Smith

Question:

165 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills the national criteria for determining head office locations for merging vocational education committees; how the criteria were applied in the decision to locate the head office for Cavan Monaghan Vocational Education Committee in Monaghan town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30057/11]

Brendan Smith

Question:

166 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills the projected savings arising from the decision to locate the head office for Cavan Monaghan Vocational Education Committee in Monaghan town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30059/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 165 and 166 together.

In arriving at my decision in relation to the location of headquarters of the merged VECs, I considered a range of factors including the need to ensure that the location of a VEC headquarters will, to the greatest extent possible, facilitate staff redeployment under a redeployment scheme within the context of the Croke Park Agreement and the need to operate at lowest cost having regard to the accommodation available in existing locations.

The distance between Cavan and Monaghan marginally exceeds the 45 km distance agreed under the Croke Park Agreement in relation to redeployment and may preclude redeployment of staff currently employed in Cavan to Monaghan and vice versa. Consequently, I decided that a sub-office would be required for the foreseeable future. In determining Monaghan as a headquarter location I was aware that both VECs are very closely matched on the criteria mentioned above although Co. Monaghan VEC has marginally more second level schools under its control.

It would be very difficult to accurately predict the savings which will arise from any one particular merger. The Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes suggested that overall savings of €3 million could be realised. The reconfiguration to 16 can, over time, yield such savings in the recurrent cost of the headquarter functions of VECs which, at present, is of the order of €40 million in total.

Departmental Schemes

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

167 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will clarify his plans regarding the school book rental scheme; the arrangements he is proposing to make between schools operating such schemes and the publishers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30080/11]

I have held meetings with educational book publishers, representatives of parents' organisations and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul regarding the cost of school textbooks. I also had a further meeting with the book publishers on 10 October 2011.

The publishers present stated that they were committed to the code of practice where publishers undertook not to publish new or revised editions of textbooks for six years, except in the context of significant change to the curriculum or examinations. Publishers also said they were willing to make minor updates available online in the future. Publishers stated that they would allow discount rates for bulk buying to schools which would support the introduction of book rental or loan schemes in schools. In the context of the concerns raised by the Deputy for jobs in shops where school textbooks are currently sold, it would be open to shops to also offer discounts to schools. I requested publishers not to print workbook-style material within textbooks as this rendered loan or rental schemes impracticable. The publishers undertook to bear my concerns in mind in the development of any new publications.

I recognise that educational publishers are independent commercial companies who compete in an open market for the sale of their textbooks. I recognise that I cannot interfere in the matter of price setting but have sought assurances from publishers they will facilitate schools that wish to purchase bulk stock for the operation of rental schemes. I am pleased to have received this assurance. I am very satisfied with the progress made in my meetings with publishers and I welcome their positive and proactive approach to co-operating with me in reducing the cost of textbooks to students and families. My Department is undertaking a survey of schools to establish the current situation regarding school book rental and loan schemes so that I can consider how I might incentivise the introduction of book loan or rental schemes.

I have invited the National Parents Councils at primary and post-primary levels to provide me with examples of good practice of book rental schemes. My Department is currently preparing guidelines for schools on best practice in the operation of such schemes.

Schools Refurbishment

Seán Kyne

Question:

168 Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application under the emergency works scheme in respect of a school (details supplied). [30124/11]

An application under my Department's Emergency Works Scheme for fencing has been received from the school referred to by the Deputy.

The purpose of the Emergency Works Scheme is solely for unforeseen emergencies or to provide funding to facilitate inclusion and access for special needs pupils. 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.

As the scope of works for this project is outside the terms of the Emergency Works Scheme it cannot be considered for emergency funding. The school has been informed of the decision.

School Transport

Seán Kyne

Question:

169 Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Education and Skills if consideration will be given to the commencement of a trial scheme for public service obligation contracts in the Connemara area by way of public tender for school transport provision which would enable private transport operators to bid. [30125/11]

Generally Public Service Obligation services are operated by Bus Éireann under contract to the National Transport Authority. School transport contracts are a separate matter and in this regard Bus Éireann, which operates the school transport schemes, has advised that an extensive procurement exercise was conducted in summer 2011. This exercise invited applications from operators of large, medium, small buses and taxis who were interested in undertaking, on a contractual basis, the operation of school transport services throughout Ireland. Advertisements were placed on the eTenders website, the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU), and in the local and national newspapers.

It may be interest to the Deputy that some 85% of the vehicles used to provide services under the School Transport Scheme, equivalent to over 3,300 vehicles, are provided by private operators under contract to Bus Éireann.

School Staffing

Finian McGrath

Question:

170 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of posts allocated to primary schools in each county for the teaching of English as an additional language. [30129/11]

Finian McGrath

Question:

171 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of posts allocated to second level schools in each county for the teaching of English as an additional language. [30130/11]

Finian McGrath

Question:

172 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of appeals submitted this year by primary schools against a decision not to sanction the appointment of a teacher of English as an additional language; and the number of schools to which posts were allocated on appeal. [30131/11]

Finian McGrath

Question:

173 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of appeals submitted this year by second level schools against decisions not to sanction the appointment of a teacher of English as an additional language; and the number of schools to which posts were allocated on appeal. [30132/11]

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

Significant support is given to schools by way of language support provision. The level of extra teaching support provided in respect of language support to any school is determined by the numbers of eligible pupils enrolled and the associated assessed levels of those pupils' language proficiency. There are currently circa 840 full-time teaching posts in respect of English as an additional language (EAL) allocated to primary schools for the 2011-2012 school year. The corresponding whole time equivalent figure for post primary schools is 200 posts. The final EAL position for all schools will ultimately not be known until later in the Autumn. At that stage the allocation process will be fully completed and the latest appeals to the Staffing Appeals Board will have been considered. Having regard to the overall level of demand for language support and other upward pressures on teacher numbers, the Department is not in a position at this stage to process and approve applications for language support posts received from primary schools after 6 May 2011. Such applications will be considered shortly when a clearer picture will have emerged in relation to how the Department is managing within the overall limits on teacher numbers. All applications for the appointment of teachers of English as an additional language from post primary schools that had met the criteria laid down in the allocations process were sanctioned.

The allocation process also includes an appeals mechanism for schools to submit an appeal under certain criteria to an independent Appeal Board. To date, 56 primary schools have appealed their EAL allocation to the Primary Staffing Appeal Board of which 21 were successful. The Appeal Board operates independently of the Department and its decision is final. There were no EAL appeals from post primary schools.

School Placement

Brendan Smith

Question:

174 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he decides on the relevant catchment areas for all second level schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30134/11]

Catchment boundaries have their origins in the establishment of free post-primary education in the late 1960s and were determined following consultation with local educational interests. For planning purposes the country was divided into geographic districts each with several primary schools feeding into a post-primary centre with one or more post-primary schools. The intention was and continues to be that these defined districts facilitate the orderly planning of school provision and accommodation needs.

Higher Education Grants

John McGuinness

Question:

175 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a grant will be approved by Kilkenny Vocational Education Committee in respect of a person (details supplied) towards the cost of a course. [30156/11]

The processing of student grants is carried out by local grant awarding authorities, the VECs and local authorities. In the circumstances, the student in question should contact his grant awarding authority to ascertain the position with his application.

The Deputy will appreciate that in the absence of all of the details that would be contained in a student grant application form, it would not be possible for me to say if a student would qualify for a grant.

Vocational Education Committees

Stephen S. Donnelly

Question:

176 Deputy Stephen Donnelly asked the Minister for Education and Skills, with regard to the appointment of a new chief executive to lead the new merged Wicklow Kildare Vocational Education Committee, if that position is being filled based on merit or seniority; the process being followed to fill that position; and the criteria being used in making the appointment. [30168/11]

My officials have recently concluded an agreement with SIPTU, the trade unions representing the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of VECS, on a redeployment scheme for CEOs in the context of the Croke Park agreement.

This scheme will be used, in the first instance, for determining the appointment of CEOs to the new VEC bodies, following the enactment of the relevant legislation. The agreed scheme provides an opportunity for those appointed (other than in a temporary acting capacity) in the grade of CEO of a Vocational Education Committee to elect for redeployment to the new CEO positions. Where there is more than one volunteer for any of the new CEO positions, the scheme provides for the position to be offered, in the first instance, to the most senior eligible volunteer.

In the event that the elective process does not result in the filling of all of the posts, the scheme provides for assignment of an existing permanent CEO to a post for which s/he has not volunteered or for appointment of a holder of an analogous post in the Public Service to any of the available positions in accordance with the provisions of the Croke Park agreement.

Question No. 177 answered with Question No. 141.

Stephen S. Donnelly

Question:

178 Deputy Stephen Donnelly asked the Minister for Education and Skills, with regard to the decision to make Wicklow Vocational Education Committee a sub-office of the newly merged VEC for Counties Wicklow and Kildare, the criteria used to decide whether Wicklow or Kildare should host the main VEC centre; the weighting that was allocated to each criterion; how each VEC scored against these criteria; if a cost analysis was done as part of the decision making process; the amount that was forecast to be saved by basing the main VEC centre in Kildare rather than in Wicklow; if he will release the full cost analysis that was done, including all input assumptions; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the staff in Wicklow learned about the decision through the news media; if he is satisfied that this is an appropriate way to treat staff; and the rationale for releasing the decision to the media first. [30171/11]

In arriving at my decision in relation to the location of headquarters of the merged VECs, I considered a range of factors including the need to ensure that the location of a VEC headquarters will, to the greatest extent possible, facilitate staff redeployment under a redeployment scheme within the context of the Croke Park Agreement and the need to operate at lowest cost having regard to the accommodation available in existing locations.

The distance between Naas and Wicklow exceeds the 45km distance agreed under the Croke Part Agreement in relation to redeployment and may preclude redeployment of staff currently employed in Wicklow to Naas and vice versa. Consequently, I decided that a sub-office would be required for the foreseeable future. A cost analysis of leasing arrangements and staff residential addresses having regard to the criteria for redeployment in the context of the Croke Park Agreement would have involved a time consuming exercise which would not have been justified over the longer term, particularly given the decision to maintain both offices for the foreseeable future. Consequently, no such cost analysis was carried out. In determining Naas as a headquarter location I was aware that both VECs are very closely matched on the criteria mentioned above. I am satisfied that geographically, Naas is the most favourable location for the headquarters.

It is regrettable if staff of Co Wicklow VEC were caused any upset on learning about the decision to locate the head office of the merged VEC in Naas and to have a sub office in Wicklow on the news. However, I was aware that my decision in relation to the locations of the headquarters was eagerly awaited by the VECs, their staffs, students and the wider population around the country. In this regard, I am satisfied that it was important to put that decision in the public domain as soon as possible.

Appointments to State Boards

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

179 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Skills the saving to the State if all State agency board members’ annual payments were rescinded and instead board membership was awarded without remuneration. [30255/11]

Based on current rates as per Department of Finance guidelines, the Chairperson of FÁS is eligible for a payment of €20,520 per annum while eight ordinary members are eligible for payments of €11,970; the Chairperson of the Grangegorman Development Agency is eligible for a payment of €8,978 per annum; the Chairperson of the Higher Education Authority is eligible for a payment of €11,970 per annum while eighteen ordinary members are eligible for payments of €7,695; the Chairperson of Skillnets Ltd is eligible for a payment of €8,978 per annum while ten ordinary members are eligible for payments of €5,985; and the Chairperson of the State Examinations Commission is eligible for a payment of €11,970 per annum while the other four Commissioners are eligible for payments of €7,695. Based on these figures a potential saving of €387,316 could apply if no fees were applicable with regard to the five agencies referred to above.

In addition the Deputy should note that fees paid to boards of the Residential Institutions Redress Board (RIRB) and the Residential Institutions Review Committee (RIRC) up until end of September 2011 total €707,228. Ordinary board members are paid a per diem rate which in both cases is currently €668 per day (pension abatement applies were appropriate). The Chairperson of the RIRC is paid by the Department based on annual salary for a Supreme Court judge subject to abatement.

No fees are paid to board members in relation to any of the other bodies under the aegis of my Department except as outlined above.

Local Authority Charges

Anne Ferris

Question:

180 Deputy Anne Ferris asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans to review the mechanism for calculating commercial rates, given that valuations only take place every ten years and in view of the current economic climate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29583/11]

The Commissioner of Valuation has sole responsibility for all valuation matters under the Valuation Act 2001 which includes the implementation of the revaluation of all commercial and industrial properties on a nationwide basis. The basis of valuation for all commercial property is net annual value, i.e. the rental value of the property. To ensure equity and uniformity, valuation revisions set for modified or new properties are determined by reference to the values of comparable properties on the same valuation list.

The revision process deals with the physical changes that take place to properties such as new buildings, extensions, subdivisions, exemptions etc and reflect these changes in the valuation lists. Both rating authorities and ratepayers submit requests to the Valuation Office to have rateable valuations amended to take account of these types of changes.

Revaluation is the mechanism whereby economic changes that take place in the property market are reflected in the valuation lists and in individual ratepayers' rates liabilities. The purpose of revaluation is to bring more equity, fairness and transparency to the local authority rating system, and, following revaluation, there will be a much closer relationship between rental value and commercial rates liability and this relationship will thereafter be maintained by means of recurring revaluations provided for in the Act.

The revaluation programme began in November 2005 in the South Dublin County Council area and has since been rolled out to the areas covered by Fingal and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Councils. The revaluation of South Dublin was completed in December 2007, Fingal was completed in 2009 and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown was completed in 2010 and the process is now being rolled out in the Dublin City Council area.

My Departmental officials are reviewing various provisions of the Valuation Act, 2011, to modernise and streamline the valuation process in the interests of both ratepayers and the local authorities. A significant amount of work has already been undertaken and preliminary Heads of Bill have been drafted in conjunction with the Valuation Office and the Attorney General which I hope to bring to Government for approval shortly.

Public Procurement

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

181 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if his attention has been drawn to the amount of printing work that is leaving the State, leading to the closure of printing firms here; if his further attention has been drawn to the VAT position and loss of revenue to the State due to the fulfilling of printing requirements outside the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29767/11]

The National Procurement Service (NPS) is a Business Unit of the Office of Public Works with responsibility for achievement of efficiencies and value for money in the procurement of all goods and services for the Irish public service. Since its establishment in 2009, the NPS has made continuous efforts to ensure that Irish print companies are able to take full advantage of the public procurement opportunities that arise and are available to them. The NPS facilitated a seminar for the Print & Packaging Forum in September 2009, which covered all the issues relating to competing for public procurement contracts, such as the Public Procurement regulations, accessing the market opportunities, the tendering process, and general guidance on how companies should approach the preparation of tenders. Further seminars were delivered to ISME and to Chambers of Commerce in 2010 and 2011. The NPS has also produced a leaflet "Top Tendering Tips for Public Sector Contracts" which is freely available, and has delivered workshops in 2011 on public procurement opportunities in association with Enterprise Ireland and Intertrade Ireland.

In addition, the NPS has put in place a Print Panel for small print requirements (below the new threshold for advertising on eTenders of €25,000). All print companies who are interested in public sector work can and should apply to be placed on the print panel. The response had not been as great as was hoped. Of the 700 or so companies that are involved in print, only around 55 are included in the panel, which is available currently to all public sector buyers on www.procurement.ie, together with instructions on how it can be used for low-value tenders. The opportunities for small print requirements should be enhanced by the fact that the NPS has ceased the use of aggregated contracts for a number of print services including bookwork and printed stationery. One significant development in the area of facilitating the SME sector was the publication by the Department of Finance in August 2010 of Circular 10/10. These guidelines to public contracting authorities aim to ensure that tendering processes are carried out in a manner that facilitates participation by SMEs, while ensuring that all procurement is carried out in a manner that is legal, transparent, and secures optimal value for money for the taxpayer. It addresses the concerns that SMEs have regarding access to public procurement opportunities, and highlights practices that are to be avoided, where they can unjustifiably hinder small businesses in competing for public contracts. The new arrangements include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There should be no loss of VAT Revenue to the State where printing requirements of Irish businesses are sent outside the State. The purchaser is liable for VAT on goods acquired from other States within the EU.

Local Authority Charges

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

182 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his view on whether there should be an amendment to the Evaluation Act 2001 to allow an employer to appeal a rates evaluation due to a change in economic circumstances; his further view on whether the fact that commercial rates have gone up 45% since 2000 is placing an unbearable burden on small businesses in particular. [30077/11]

The Valuation Act 2001 provides for the valuation of all commercial and industrial property and the Commissioner of Valuation is independent in the performance of his functions under the Act and the making of valuations for rating is his sole prerogative. Under the 2001 Act, the basis of valuation for all commercial property is net annual value, i.e. the rental value of the property.

To ensure equity and uniformity, valuation revisions which are set for modified or new properties are determined by references to the values of comparable properties on the same valuation list.

Under section 28(4) of the Act, a Revision Officer of the Commissioner may carry out a revision of valuation in relation to a particular property only if a material change of circumstances has occurred such as a new building, a change in value due to structural alterations of an existing building, total or partial demolition of a building or a sub-division or amalgamation of relevant property. The definition does not allow for a revision of valuation where the change in value is due to economic factors, differential movements in property values or other external factors such as roads or other infrastructural development in the vicinity of a property.

Revaluation is the mechanism whereby economic changes that take place in the property market are reflected in the valuation lists and in individual ratepayers' rates liabilities. The purpose of revaluation is to bring more equity, fairness and transparency to the local authority rating system. Ideally, occupiers of properties of similar value in the same rating area should have a similar rates liability and following revaluation, there will be a much closer relationship between rental value and commercial rates liability and this relationship will thereafter be maintained by means of recurring revaluations provided for in the Act.

My Department is reviewing various provisions of the Valuation Act 2001, including the appeal procedures, with a view to modernising and streamlining the valuation process in the interests of both the ratepayers and the local authorities. In conjunction with the Valuation Office and the Attorney General, preliminary Heads of Bill have been drafted which I hope to bring to Government shortly for approval.

As the Deputy is aware, the levying of commercial rates is a matter for local authorities and the amount of rates to be collected is a matter for each local authority to decide. Commercial rates provide the means by which local authorities can fund the services essential to communities, and therefore business, across the full range of local activities including roads, water and waste services, fire and emergency, libraries and a range of community, amenity and social activities.

The Government is acutely aware of the pressures on small and medium-sized businesses and the challenging economic environment in which many property and business owners are operating at the moment. In this context, the Government is focused on reducing the costs of doing business to support competitiveness and employment in the economy and to protect the interests of communities. Local authorities have responded positively to requests to exercise restraint in setting commercial rates. Annual rates on valuation have been reduced by an average of 0.6% in 2010 and by a similar level in 2011. My colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government will continue to keep all matters relating to rates under regular consideration.

Heritage Sites

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

183 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the total number of heritage sites or buildings identified and accessible from a tourism or scientific point of view; the extent of interest generated through the marketing of such locations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30137/11]

The Heritage Services of the OPW are responsible for the conservation, maintenance and management of approximately 780 sites that are in State ownership or guardianship. Of these some 69 sites throughout the country are presented to the public by way of a dedicated guide Service. Some of which are fee paying. In 2010 a total of 3.33 million people visited these sites.

Many of the other sites within our care such as, the Phoenix Park, St. Stephen's Green, etc, are not presented by such a guide service but have many thousands of visitors each year.

All of our sites could be considered tourist related and many offer a valuable scientific and educational role and remit. Requests for access to all sites are facilitated where possible for educational, scientific or media purposes.

The marketing of sites is carried by the OPW Visitor Services section who also maintain the "Heritage Ireland" website and together with local Site Managers market these sites and the many events that take place each year.

Vocational Education Committees

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

184 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the input he has had into the process of vocational education committee amalgamation; if VEC amalgamations and the costs associated with some of the new arrangements have any part in the comprehensive spending review; the analysis that has been done by him of proposed changes to the VEC structures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29452/11]

The rationalisation and amalgamation of VECs and the precise mechanics of how that will be implemented is primarily a matter for the Minister for Education and Skills. I support the whole concept of VEC rationalization. I am keen that this approach should both produce significant savings and improve services. The VEC rationalization process has fed into the overall Comprehensive Review of Expenditure in the Education Sector which is currently the subject of detailed discussions between my Department and the Department of Education and Skills. I see the VEC rationalization process as one element in the overall effort to improve services in the education area and, with particular regard to those seeking to move from unemployment back into the labour force, in the area of further education and training.

Freedom of Information

Aodhán Ó Ríordáin

Question:

185 Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when he plans to legislate for the restoration of the Freedom of Information Act; and when the same remit will be extended to other public bodies as laid out in the Programme for Government. [29485/11]

My Department is engaged in the necessary preparatory work and consultations to give effect to the commitments in the Programme for Government in relation to Freedom of Information. I hope to be in a position to introduce the necessary legislative measures to give effect to the commitments in the Programme for Government in the New Year.

Departmental Staff

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

186 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the salary grade and remuneration awarded to the recently appointed programme director of the new reform and delivery office within his Department; if the salary has been agreed by the top-level appointments committee; and if a special severance gratuity payment and added years have been agreed by him as part of the pension arrangement. [29526/11]

The Programme Director of the new Reform and Delivery Unit is at Assistant Secretary level. The salary scale for this post is €127,796 to €146,191 per annum. This is a TLAC appointment and the salary norms for the grade are set by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. Special severance gratuity payments and added years do not apply to the post.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

187 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the saving to the State if the special severance gratuity payment and added years as agreed by the top-level appointments committee for all existing secretaries general, county managers, CEOs of non-commercial semi-states and office holders, including heads of vocational education committees, were withdrawn. [29543/11]

The special retirement terms provided to Top-level Appointments Committee (TLAC) appointees apply to Secretaries General. The Deputy will be aware that the terms are being reviewed at present. They do not apply to Chief Executive Officers of non-commercial State agencies whose departure terms are subject to a letter dated 26 May 1998 to all Departments. That letter delegated sanction to Departments to operate those terms within specific guidelines. However, the delegated sanction was withdrawn in 2010.

As regards Secretaries General, based on a current pensionable salary of €253,635, one added year would provide about €3,100 in extra pension per annum, and about €9,500 in lump sum. A maximum of 10 added years is possible. The severance cost would be €126,817. As stated above, these terms are being reviewed.

The superannuation terms of County Managers are provided for in Section 78 of the Local Government (Superannuation) (Consolidation) Scheme 1998, as amended by Section 23 of the Local Government (Superannuation) (Consolidation) (Amendment) Scheme 2007. These schemes are the responsibility of the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

The savings in respect of Chief Executive Officers of non-commercial State agencies would depend on the level of salary of each individual concerned. In general terms, where the CEO was subject to standard superannuation terms, the saving from not applying added years would be the product of pensionable salary multiplied by the number of added years divided by 80. The particular circumstances of the individual CEO's pension scheme may differ from this. A maximum of 5 added years is provided for in the letter of 26 May 1998.

As regards Vocational Educational Committees, this would be a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Education and Skills.

Officeholders are not given added years.

Appointments to State Boards

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

188 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of persons who hold more than one State agency board position across the aegis of all Departments; their total remuneration; the number of board memberships said persons hold and their names in tabular form; and if such information is collated. [29545/11]

In response to the Deputy's question my Department only records details of appointments made to State agencies that come under the remit of my Department. Details in respect of these bodies are contained in the following table.

State agencies

Name of Body

Current Members

Remuneration details in respect of board members and board chairpersons

An Post National Lottery Company

Mr Donal Connell (Chairperson)*Mr Dermot GriffinMr Micheál Ó MuircheartaighMs Caroline Murphy*Mr James HylandMs Barbara PattonMr Oliver Wilkinson

*No remuneration is paid to Donal Connell or James Hyland as they are on the board of An Post €12,600 per annum for remaining directors

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

189 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 284 of 4 October 2011, if the figure supplied includes retired Oireachtas Members; and if not, if he will supply the number of retired Oireachtas Members in receipt of annual pensions within the pension bands requested in the original question. [29546/11]

It has not been possible to collate the data as requested in the time available. I will however supply the data to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Appointments to State Boards

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

190 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the saving to the State if all State agency board members’ annual payments were rescinded and instead board membership was awarded without remuneration. [29547/11]

In response to the Deputy's question, the only State Agency under the remit of my Department is An Post National Lottery. Savings of approximately €63,000 could be made if State agency board members annual payments were rescinded in respect of the board of that Body.

Civil Service Staff

Robert Dowds

Question:

191 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the source of the Civil Service conciliation and arbitration scheme that partially or entirely restricts promotion from professional to administrative grades, or conversely states that certain promotions are to be limited to certain groups. [29625/11]

Robert Dowds

Question:

192 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the conciliation and arbitration scheme has a role in respect of internal Civil Service promotions; and if so, the nature of that role. [29626/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 191 and 192 together.

The purpose of the Civil Service Conciliation and Arbitration scheme is to provide means acceptable both to the State and to its employees for dealing with claims and proposals relating to the conditions of service of civil servants and to secure the fullest co-operation between the State, as employer, and civil servants, as employees, for the better discharge of public business.

The scheme also sets out the conditions governing the operation of the General Council, the Departmental Councils, facilitation, arbitration and the procedure for dealing with claims.

The Conciliation and Arbitration (C&A) Scheme for the Civil Service includes provision for discussions relating to the principles governing civil service promotions.

Section 23(f) of the C&A Scheme for the Civil Service provides that principles governing promotion in respect of the general service grades and in professional, scientific and technical grades which are common to two or more Departments may be discussed at General Council.

Section 42(e) of the C&A Scheme for the Civil Service provides that principles governing promotion in respect of departmental grades may be discussed at Departmental Council.

Section 58(1)(a) of the Public Service Management (Recruitment and Appointments) Act, 2004 provides that the Minister for Finance (now the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform) is responsible for all matters relating to recruitment in the civil service. This includes matters relating to eligibility criteria, staff numbers, grading, pay and all other working conditions of civil servants.

Where appropriate, schemes of promotion agreed under General Council reflect the eligibility criteria as set by the Minister under Section 58 (1).

Public Service Appointments

Robert Dowds

Question:

193 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his interpretation of section 58 of the Public Service Management (Recruitment and Appointments) Act 2004. [29627/11]

Recruitment to the Civil Service and to certain parts of the wider public service is governed by the Public Service Management (Recruitment and Appointments) Act 2004. The Act established the Commission for Public Service Appointments (CPSA) and the Public Appointments Service (PAS). The CPSA sets the standards to apply to the recruitment of persons for positions in the Civil Service and certain other public service bodies. The PAS acts as the centralised recruitment, assessment and selection body for the Civil Service and provides a similar service, when requested, to the local authorities and Health Service Executive, the Garda Síochána, HIQA and certain other public service bodies.

Section 58(1)(a) of the Act provides that the Minister for Finance (now the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform) is responsible for all matters relating to recruitment in the civil service. This includes matters relating to eligibility criteria, staff numbers, grading, pay and all other working conditions of civil servants.

Section 58(1)(b) of the Act provides that in the context of recruitment to the wider public service various Ministers are responsible for these matters within their sectors of responsibility.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

194 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29785/11]

The only State Agency under the aegis of my Department is An Post National Lottery. Pension payments in respect of former employees of An Post National Lottery are dealt with by the Department of Communications and Natural Resources.

Ministerial Staff

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

195 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide the pay of all special advisers to Ministers for whom he approved exceptions (details supplied). [29808/11]

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

196 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the name, pay and qualifications of all 14 special advisors to Ministers for whom he approved salary cap exceptions; and to which Minister each of the 14 special advisors has been appointed. [29902/11]

I propose to take questions 195 and 196 together.

The table below sets out the information as requested by the Deputy.

List of Special Advisers above min of PO standard — Oct 2011

Department

Minister/Minister of State

Name of Adviser

Sanctioned Pay Rate

Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

Minister Rabbitte

Simon Nugent

€97,200

Mr Nugent graduated with a BA Mod (Political Science) from Dublin University in 1988. His professional career included 3 years in Brussels working as a European Policy Analyst. Subsequently he worked as Director Policy and then Chief Executive of the Chambers of Commerce of Ireland. Prior to his appointment as Special Adviser to the Minister for Communications Energy and Natural Resources he worked as CEO of the Irish Travel Agents Association. Mr Nugent is a former member of the National Economic and Social Council. He was a Director of Skillnets Ltd for 3 years.

Minister Rabbitte

Finbar O’Malley

€83,337

Mr O’Malley is a barrister and worked previously as advisory counsel in the Office of the Attorney General, as a special adviser in the Office of the Tánaiste and as a legal and policy adviser in the Labour Party.

Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht Affairs

Minister Deenihan

Sean Mac Cartaigh

€83,337

Mr. Mac Cartaigh has significant and wide ranging experience both in Ireland and abroad in the areas of Arts and Culture gathered over a number of years and brings this wealth of experience to his role as Ministerial advisor. Prior to assuming the role of Ministerial Advisor Mr. Mac Cartaigh was Director of Public Affairs in the Arts Council.

Education and Skills

Minister Ruairí Quinn

John Walsh

€92,672

Academic Qualifications B.A. 1968, H.Dip 1969, M.Ed 1998 He was Education Editor with the Irish Independent as well as Irish correspondent for a range of international education publications. He also spent a period working as education correspondent with The Irish Times. He is a former consultant to the OECD where he was involved in preparing four publications relating to teacher professional development, student motivation, adult education, and new forms of school management.

Minister Ruairí Quinn

Deirdre Grant

€86,604

Academic Qualifications B.A. Honours Communication Studies 1995. M Phil HIV/Aids and Society 2005. Ms. Grant formerly worked in media relations and is the Director of Communications at the Department.

Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation

Minister Bruton

Ciaran Conlon

€127,000

Mr. Conlon’s qualifications: BA (Economics) NUI Maynooth, MA (Economics) UCD

Environment, Community and Local Government

Minister Hogan

Sean McKeown

€92,672

Mr McKeown was serving as Chief Executive Officer of the Kilkenny County Enterprise Board. He has served as CEO of the Board since 2003 and in that time he has built up an extensive understanding and know-how in the areas of business, community and local government matters.

Finance

Minister Noonan

Mary Kenny

€83,337

Ms Kenny has over 20 years service in the Houses of the Oireachtas, She has acted to Minister Noonan in the Department of Health from 1994 to 1997. She has also acted as Special Adviser to him during his period as Fine Gael Party Leader.

Public Expenditure and Reform

Minister Howlin

Anne Byrne

€83,337

Diploma on Social Science, Maynooth. Member of the Medical Council 1984-1993, Programme Manager Department of Health 1993-1994, Programme Manager Department of the Environment 1995-1997, Adviser to Leas Cheann Comhairle 2007-2011

Minister Howlin

Rónán O’Brien

€114,000

Education BA (history and politics) — University College Dublin Diploma in Legal Studies — Dublin Institute of Technology Professional and Political Experience 1997-2002: Political advisor / chef de cabinet to Ruairí Quinn TD, leader of the Labour Party 2003-2011: Communications and Marketing Director, Chartered Accountants in Ireland

Health

Minister Reilly

Mark Costigan

€92,672

Mr Costigan has considerable relevant experience for the job. Mr Costigan was for five years the Deputy Government Press Secretary and prior to that he had a distinguished career as a journalist, including holding the position of Political Editor for Today FM.

Social Protection

Minister Burton

Ed Brophy

€127,796

Mr Brophy qualified as a solicitor in 2000 and has extensive professional experience in legal and regulatory affairs. He worked in Endesa Ireland as the Legal and Procurement Director. Previously he was a Senior Associate in Arthur Cox Solicitors. He also has a Masters in Economic Policy.

Transport, Tourism and Sport

Minister Varadkar

Brian Murphy

€105,837

Mr. Murphy was Director of Commercial Affairs with the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association and is A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Food

Minister Coveney

Fergal Leamy (Has Vacated the Position)

€130,000

Academic Qualifications First class honours in Business and Law, UCD 1999 Professional Experience 1999-2002 Senior Business Analyst, McKinsey and Company, 2002-2005 Head of Commercial Development, Whitbread-David Lloyd Leisure, 2005-2007 Engagement Manager, McKinsey and Company, 2007-2011 Development Director Greencore, CEO Greencore USA, Greencore Integration Lead.

Public Procurement

Simon Harris

Question:

197 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will consider awarding additional credits to Irish companies that tender for publicly funded contracts in both the State and semi-state sectors, in recognition of a number of factors including the number of locally employed persons, a company’s skill at providing similar projects in the past and a company’s ability to provide tax clearance and ePace certificates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29945/11]

The award of public contracts is governed by EU Treaty principles and Directives on public procurement. The aim is to promote an open, competitive and non-discriminatory public procurement regime which delivers best value for money. It would be a breach of the rules for a public body to favour or discriminate against particular candidates on grounds of nationality and there are legal remedies which may be used against any public body infringing these rules.

Nevertheless, there is evidence to indicate that more than 90% of public contracts here are won by Irish suppliers. The open market regime also offers opportunities for Irish companies to win business abroad and reliable EU studies indicate that many Irish businesses are successful in this regard.

Public Service Payroll System

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

198 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the initial cost of setting up the Civil Service intranet payroll system CorePay; and the annual cost for running the system, excluding personnel costs. [29986/11]

There is no single central payroll system in the Civil Service. Rather, the common payroll software, CorePay, is used by a large number of Departments/Offices to pay civil and other public service staff (such as teachers, Gardaí, etc.) and pensioners. These include the largest payrolls in the country.

The master contract for this software was put in place by the Department of Finance, following an open procurement exercise. I understand that the initial development costs for Civil Service specific modifications were €117,580 (including VAT).

Annual running costs for CorePay comprise support and maintenance charges and occasional software development costs for non-statutory changes. As each Department/Office is individually responsible for its own payroll, this Department does not have visibility of the full annual costs for CorePay across the Civil Service.

This Department does not operate the payroll software. Instead it avails of payroll services from the Department of Finance on a shared basis. Accordingly, this Department does not pay annual running costs for its payroll. This Department does pay the annual support and maintenance charges for customisations to the software that it funded which are common across the Civil Service. In 2010, these charges amounted to 35,757 euro (including VAT).

The implementation of a single Payroll system for the Civil Service is being considered in the context of implementing a Payroll Shared Service. The further adoption of Shared Services is set out in the Programme for Government as one of the Public Sector Reform initiatives and is consequently included in the Public Service Reform implementation plan being developed. Within this overall approach to Shared Services proposals for moving to Payroll Shared Services, including moving to a single Payroll system for the Civil Service, are currently being developed and it is planned to bring a decision to Government on this matter shortly.

The amount paid to Core by the Office of Public Works from 2000 to date was 597,351.04 euros inc. VAT. This includes Oracle licensing, payslips on line, reporting modules, system modifications and disaster recovery. We estimate the set up cost in 2001/2 (inc. initial software licences, Microsoft windows, consultancy, hardware etc.) to be in the region of 77,000 euros inc.

Estimated annual running cost is 30,000 Euros inc. VAT.

Public Sector Recruitment

Stephen S. Donnelly

Question:

199 Deputy Stephen Donnelly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of derogations from the moratorium on public sector recruitment that have been granted; the circumstances in which these were granted; the number of derogations that have been given specifically in cases of maternity leave; the agencies or working areas in which these were granted; if any cost benefit research has been conducted on the moratorium; if he has an estimate of the saving to the public sector pay bill, including maternity leave cover, due to the moratorium; and if, as part of the ongoing review of the effectiveness of the moratorium, he will consider excluding maternity leave cover from same. [30167/11]

Data relating to moratorium derogations is currently being updated and will be communicated to the Deputy as soon as it is to hand.

As I explained recently in response to the Deputy's other questions, exceptions from the moratorium can be considered in a number of special circumstances relating to the post in question and the nature of the duties involved. However, the reason why a post has become vacant in the first place (whether, for example through retirement, staff movement, or staff leave such as maternity leave) is not a factor in such decision.

The moratorium was introduced in March 2009. By the end 2011 the public service is on target to be almost 19,000 smaller and cost €1.5bn less than 2008 levels. Additional details are set out on my Department's website.

Wage-Setting Mechanisms

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

200 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the position regarding legislation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29569/11]

On 26 July 2011 the Government agreed a package of radical reforms to the Joint Labour Committee and Registered Employment Agreement wage settling mechanisms. The reform proposals deal with recommendations made and issues raised in the Independent Report on the JLC/REA systems (Duffy/Walsh report) as well as the outcome of the recent High Court ruling in the Grace Fried Chicken constitutional challenge.

The proposed measures will provide for the retention of the JLC and REA systems, subject to the reforms that are required to place them on a more secure legal and constitutional footing. They will also reinstate a robust system of protection for workers in these sectors in the aftermath of the High Court ruling. Heads of a Bill to give effect to the reform proposals have been prepared by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, agreed by Government, and communicated to the Attorney General, who has agreed to give the highest priority to drafting this legislation. It is my intention to have a Bill ready to introduce to the Oireachtas at the earliest possible opportunity this term.

Employment Rights

Robert Dowds

Question:

201 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his views on questions raised in the Universal Periodic Review over the right to collective bargaining here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29577/11]

The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), established in accordance with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1 of 18 June 2007, held its twelfth session from 3 to 14 October 2011. The review of Ireland was held at the 7th meeting on 6 October 2011. Ireland's delegation was headed by the Minister for Justice and Equality.

In the course of the Working Group's discussion any UN Member State can pose questions, comments and/or make recommendations to the States under review. Norway submitted a question asking whether Ireland is prepared to enact legislation to underpin the right of workers to collective bargaining through their trade unions in line with Ireland's international commitments. Norway subsequently made a recommendation to this effect.

There is a commitment in the Programme for Government to ensure that Irish law on employees' rights to engage in collective bargaining is consistent with recent judgements of the European Court of Human Rights. This process will require consultation with stakeholders, including employer and worker representatives, 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.

Ireland's response setting out the consideration given to the Norwegian recommendation will be delivered in the context of our comprehensive report to be provided before the 19th session of the Human Rights Council in March 2012.

Joan Collins

Question:

202 Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if all staff employed by the Houses of the Oireachtas are covered by the Working Time Act and all relevant health and safety regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29738/11]

In relation to health and safety, the position is that every worker, in every sector of the economy, is protected by the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and extant statutory instruments relevant to health and safety in the workplace.

The Organisation of Working Time Act 1995 contains specific definitions of employee and employer to whom the Act applies and describes the various circumstances in which the Act is not applicable.

It is the responsibility of all employers, including the Houses of the Oireachtas, to consider the extent to which all employment and health and safety legislation is applicable and to ensure compliance with all related obligations.

National Standards Authority

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

203 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Jobs; Enterprise and Innovation if, in view of remarks (details supplied) made recently at the Coroner’s Court regarding a window blind contributing to the death of a child, regulations are expected to decrease the likelihood of a similar tragedy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29898/11]

The latest European standard EN13120, which has been adopted by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI), specifies strict obligations on manufacturers of looped mechanism window blinds. These obligations include the provision of a warning notice in a conspicuous position of the risks inherent from cords, chains, tape and similar items.

In addition, the standard requires manufacturers to provide within the product package a device for keeping cords, chains, tape or similar items out of reach of children, or to provide an appropriate safety device (with instructions for its proper installation and use) or to include in the product design a mechanism that shall achieve the same result.

Where the design requires a looped operating mechanism, the manufacturer shall provide the means to limit the risk, either by incorporating this into the product design, or by supplying an appropriate safety device with the product.

Work commenced in 2010 to revise the European standard EN 13120 in order to strengthen requirements in relation to risks of strangulation by young children and Ireland has taken an active role in the working group responsible for this revision. Publication of the revised European standard is expected in 2012.

In addition, and given the specific national concerns in this area, the NSAI proposes that a national standard, more comprehensive than the European standard, will be published late in 2011 on providing guidance for manufacturers and installers as well as consumers on safe window blind products.

This standard will include other important guidance such as information on installation, including safety aspects, as well as training requirements for installers, manufacturers and sales representatives. To this end a committee has been established by the NSAI comprised of representatives of the manufacturing and installation sectors as well as the National Consumer Agency. A draft standard was made available on August 10th last for public consultation. In light of the coroner's report referred to by the Deputy a decision was taken by the NSAI to extend the public consultation until September 30th. The intention is for a revised national Standard to be published before the end of the year.

In light of the above I have no plans to introduce legislation at this time to make it illegal for manufacturers to include looped cords in window blinds. If a ban was proposed, Ireland would have to obtain the approval of the European Commission and other Member States.

Consumer Protection

Jerry Buttimer

Question:

204 Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the reason retail outlets are not required to display on receipts the service charge payable when mobile phone credit is purchased in certain outlets. [29942/11]

While it is the normal practice of retail outlets to provide a receipt, there is no requirement on them to do so under current consumer legislation. There is no direct regulation accordingly of the content of retail receipts, or any requirement to display service or other charges on such receipts.

The report of the Sales Law Review Group that has been published today includes a recommendation that the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation should be empowered to make regulations requiring the issue of a receipt in consumer transactions. In considering this recommendation, I will take full account of the issue raised by the Deputy's question.

Employment Appeals Tribunal

Brendan Ryan

Question:

205 Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the position regarding an employment appeals tribunal case in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29501/11]

The EAT hearing in question was held on the 29 October 2010. The determination was notified on 21 December 2010. The claim in this redundancy case was allowed in the claimants favour. The payment of the redundancy is now a matter for the employer and/or the Redundancy Section in the Department of Social Protection.

Wage-Setting Mechanisms

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

206 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if, in view of the proposed re-establishment of joint labour committees, he will confirm that new legislation will not contain any proposals to change workers’ pay and conditions in a downward trend; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29570/11]

On 26 July 2011 the Government agreed a package of radical reforms to the Joint Labour Committee and Registered Employment Agreement wage settling mechanisms. The reform proposals deal with recommendations made and issues raised in the Independent Report on the JLC/REA systems (Duffy/Walsh report) as well as the outcome of the recent High Court ruling in the Grace Fried Chicken constitutional challenge.

The proposed measures will provide for the retention of the JLC and REA systems, subject to the reforms that are required to place them on a more secure legal and constitutional footing. They will also reinstate a robust system of protection for workers in these sectors in the aftermath of the High Court ruling.

The report of the Independent Review does not recommend, nor have I proposed, downward adjustments in pay and conditions for the sectors covered by JLCs / REAs.

Heads of a Bill to give effect to the reform proposals have been prepared by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, agreed by Government, and communicated to the Attorney General, who has agreed to give the highest priority to drafting this legislation. It is my intention is to have a Bill ready to introduce to the Oireachtas at the earliest possible opportunity this term.

Departmental Funding

John Lyons

Question:

207 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will detail the interaction between him and an organisation (details supplied), including any funding or supports offered to it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29602/11]

I have not met with the organisation or person referred to although I have agreed to meet representatives of Inner City Enterprise ('ICE') in November, 2011.

On 12 July, 2011 the Minister for Small Business John Perry TD met representatives, including Ms. Evanne Kilmurray, of Inner City Enterprise ('ICE'), in relation to re-establishment of funding for enterprise creation and self-employment in Inner City Dublin, particularly among the Long-term Unemployed, the marginalised and disadvantaged, as well as new residents, in that area. ICE indicated that, while seeking support to act as a funding organisation under the Social Finance Fund or under any Microfinance fund to be established, they were also seeking funds through other sources.

Minister Perry discussed relevant sources of support at local level and recommended engagement with the relevant local stakeholder. The Minister made no commitment to ICE of support or funding by the Department or its agencies.

Work Permits

Finian McGrath

Question:

208 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his views on correspondence regarding a work permit in respect of a person (details supplied). [29633/11]

My Department processes applications in respect of the different types of employment permits and all applications are processed in line with the Employment Permits Act 2006.

I wish to advise the Deputy that this particular application was refused on the 6 October 2011 on the grounds that the application does not appear to meet the criteria of the Spousal/Dependant Permit Scheme. Spousal/Dependant Permits can only be considered where the Spouse/Parent of the proposed employee holds one of the following: — a Valid Green Card Permit, — a valid Work Permit of 12 months or more duration issued prior to the 1st June 2009, — a valid Intra-company Transfer Permit of 12 months or more duration issued prior to the 1st June 2009, — a Work Visa/Work Authorisation, or — a Hosting Agreement. I understand that an appeal in respect of this decision was received in the Employment Permits Section on 4 October 2011 and will be dealt with in sequence.

Finally, issues in relation to applications for Naturalisation are a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Justice and Equality, and are not one in which I have any role.

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

209 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the position regarding the Croke Park agreement; if he has received implementation plans for this agreement from his Department and each State agency under his remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion he has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29688/11]

Under the Public Service Agreement 2010-2014, my Department, its Offices and the twelve Agencies that come within my Department's remit developed implementation plans in October 2010. The first update on implementation was developed and submitted to the Department of Finance (now the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform) in January 2011. A further report on implementation of the actions identified in these plans was submitted to the Implementation Body Secretariat, Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in May 2011. This formed part of the first annual review of the Agreement undertaken by the Implementation Body.

Reporting on progress in the period April to September 2011 is now due and reports for my Departments, its Offices and Agencies are now being submitted to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. No discussions have taken place with the EU and IMF regarding the Public Service Agreement 2010-2014 on the implementation plans for my Department, its Offices or the Agencies under the aegis of my Department.

In general, I am satisfied that good progress is evident in bringing to conclusion the aspects identified in the various implementation plans.

Innovation Task Force

Eoghan Murphy

Question:

210 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Jobs; Enterprise and Innovation his position regarding recommendation 9.5 of the report of the innovation task force on introducing an entrepreneurial tax credit. [29723/11]

Eoghan Murphy

Question:

211 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Jobs; Enterprise and Innovation his position regarding recommendation 9.6 of the report of the innovation task force on introducing founder share options which are eligible only for CGT treatment. [29724/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 210 and 211 together.

As specified in the report of the Innovation Task Force, the Minister for Finance is the lead actor for follow up on these recommendations, as with all recommendations regarding tax.

My Department works closely with the Department of Finance, the Revenue Commissioners, Forfás, IDA, Enterprise Ireland and industry representative organisations in developing tax policy proposals to support enterprise, promote the creation of jobs and to encourage and support innovation. The following principles underpin the elaboration of tax proposals brought forward from the perspective of my Department and its agencies: — Entrepreneurs should have the incentive to set-up new businesses; — Early stage risky yet high potential start-up companies should be able to attract sufficient risk capital; — The tax system should encourage job creation by companies; and — Individuals should have a financial incentive to enter and stay within the workforce. As usual, my Department engages annually in discussions in the Tax Strategy Group on the optimal tax package for the following year's budget, and this is being undertaken for the 2012 Budget.

Eoghan Murphy

Question:

212 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his position regarding key recommendation 9.8 of the report of the innovation task force on launching a marketing campaign to promote Ireland as a start-up hub for innovation and export-oriented companies. [29725/11]

Recommendation 9.8 of the report of the Innovation task Force proposed the launch of a marketing campaign, initially on a pilot basis, to promote Ireland as an excellent location for starting innovative export-oriented companies.

I will shortly be making an announcement about an initiative to attract overseas entrepreneurs to come to Ireland to set up a new company here or develop an innovative idea or service.

I believe that the contribution of foreign entrepreneurs to the Irish economic recovery effort is a resource with considerable potential. Entrepreneurs, not currently living in Ireland, can be encouraged to bring their ideas and entrepreneurial drive to Ireland, and establish an enterprise here. The entrepreneurs may be of the Irish diaspora who are returning to Ireland, non-Irish who have been resident here and subsequently returned home, or indeed people with no previous connection to Ireland. In time, these companies have the potential to develop to become a source of wealth and job creation for this economy.

This initiative will be one more step in orienting Ireland as a start-up hub for innovation and export-oriented companies.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

213 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29783/11]

The capping of existing public service pensions which are already in payment would involve changes in the terms and conditions of employment of former public servants, which is a policy matter for the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.

The following additional information was provided under Standing Order 40A

The annual reduction in gross pension payments, if all pensions were capped at a maximum of €35,000 per annum, would be in the order of €6,350,000 gross in respect of the former employees of the agencies under the aegis of my Department. The net saving to the Exchequer would be less than this, taking account of reduced PAYE and other statutory deductions from salary.

Social Welfare Benefits

Nicky McFadden

Question:

214 Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on the restriction to just one annual examination for persons on the PRSI scheme under the dental treatment benefit scheme. [29525/11]

The Dental Benefit scheme is paid from the Social Insurance Fund (SIF). Due to current economic conditions, the SIF remains under pressure and has required substantial subvention from the Exchequer. As part of a range of cost-saving measures intended to ease this pressure, the range of treatments available under the scheme was reduced in Budget 2010.

The free annual examination remains available to qualifying customers to encourage them to continue attending for regular check-ups and to assist in the early detection of dental-related health issues. Any future consideration of changes to the scheme will have to reflect the economic realities of available funding and competing priorities.

Community Employment Schemes

Charlie McConalogue

Question:

215 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Social Protection her plans to increase the number of years of participation on community employment schemes that applies to persons under the age of 55 years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29652/11]

In general, the maximum participation limit for community employment is one year with the opportunity to extend for a further year if this is considered the most suitable and cost effective measure to assist the client in gaining employment. A person may be eligible for different periods of engagement and extensions on CE due to their age or if they are in receipt of a qualifying disability-related payment from my Department or have previously been engaged on a scheme. Currently, 23,300 work placements are available on CE nationally.

The overall limits on duration spent on CE are strictly enforced to maximise the number of places available for potential clients and to ensure progression. I have no plans to extend the duration on CE.

Social Welfare Benefits

Simon Harris

Question:

216 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on the possibility of reinstating the scale and polish treatments formerly available to PRSI contributors under the dental treatment benefit scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29672/11]

The dental benefit scheme is paid from the Social Insurance Fund (SIF). Due to the current economic conditions, the SIF remains under substantial pressure and as part of a range of cost-saving measures intended to ease this pressure, the range of treatments available under the scheme was reduced in Budget 2010.

The free examination remains available to qualifying customers to encourage them to continue attending for regular check-ups and to assist in the early detection of dental-related health issues. Future consideration of any changes to the scheme, including the re-instatement of the free scale and polish, will have to reflect the economic realities of available funding and competing priorities.

Niall Collins

Question:

217 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Social Protection when a redundancy claim will be paid in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29732/11]

There is no claim for a statutory redundancy lump sum payment registered for the person in question in redundancy section. This may be due to the fact that the application was not registered as a result of incompleteness or because financial information from the person's former employer was not presented with the form RP50.

Community Employment Schemes

Timmy Dooley

Question:

218 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will clarify the situation in relation to the instruction given by SIPTU in recent months to the operators of community employment schemes that trainees on community schemes should not perform jobs for which they are qualified; if her attention has been drawn to this fact; if she has given approval or accepted the SIPTU ruling; if FÁS/SOLAS management has advised that it has accepted the SIPTU ruling; the reason an unemployed electrician cannot do a one-hour electrical repair job for the community employment scheme on which they are working; the reason a trainee on a community employment scheme should be denied the opportunity to keep in touch with their qualifications by dictate from SIPTU; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29747/11]

I have been informed by FÁS that the Community Employment National Monitoring Committee, which is made up of representatives of the Social Partners and FÁS staff, meets at regular intervals to ensure that Community Employment projects do not lead to the displacement or replacement of workers/employees. As part of the overall approval process, Community Employment projects obtain approval from the relevant Union as part of the application process. SIPTU recently issued a questionnaire to applying projects. This questionnaire was not agreed by FÁS or the National Monitoring Committee. FÁS met with SIPTU and proposed an alternative document to assist in the process. This document will be circulated shortly to CE sponsors for use in completing their application so as to satisfy FÁS and the Social Partners that none of the positions being applied for will result in the displacement or replacement of any workers/employees.

Jobs Initiative

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

219 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Social Protection if she has been able to support under the jobs initiative scheme a project (details supplied) which is working closely with many networks and local employment services to assist the long term unemployed to establish their own businesses. [29763/11]

The Deputy will be aware that my Department now operates a number of programmes and interventions to support unemployed people in getting back to work. The organisation mentioned may qualify for support under a number of initiatives operated by my Department. The Jobs Initiative currently supports around 1,400 people in work but has not been open for recruitment for some years. Some 23,300 places have been allocated to community employment nationally and more information about how an organisation could benefit under this scheme is available from FÁS.

The national internship programme, JobBridge, is currently being rolled out and operates across the private, public and voluntary sectors under which eligible employers within the sectors may offer suitable internships. Tús, the community work placement initiative, has begun to roll-out nationally and this is being delivered by the Dublin Employment Pact in the North and South Inner City areas of Dublin. JobBridge and Tús, when fully operational will provide 5,000 internships and work placement opportunities each. Further information on all of these programmes and schemes is available on my Department's website, www.welfare.ie.

Question No. 220 withdrawn.

Redundancy Payments

Pearse Doherty

Question:

221 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Social Protection the amount paid out in 100% redundancy payments over the past year; the amount recouped by the Exchequer in terms of rebate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29796/11]

In 2010, the total amount paid from the Social Insurance Fund, under the Redundancy Payments Act 1967, was €469.9 million. Of this amount, €373.2 million was paid out in rebates to employers in respect of redundancy payments made by them to their employees. €96.7 million was the amount paid in lump sums to employees whose employers failed to make such payments.

Departmental Schemes

Alex White

Question:

222 Deputy Alex White asked the Minister for Social Protection in view of the important work done in the sector, if she will give assurances on the future funding of the return to education programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29972/11]

Part 3 of the Social Welfare and Pension Act 2010 provides for the transfer of the employment services and community services programmes of FÁS to the Department of Social Protection and for the integration of FÁS staff managing these programmes into the Department. That process of integration is currently under way. The training component of the community employment programme includes the return to education programme.

As with all programmes and schemes, the future funding and operation of the community employment programme will be considered in the context of the Comprehensive Expenditure Review and the Government's deliberations in respect of Budget 2012. It is not possible to give assurances that in relation to particular programmes.

Social Welfare Benefits

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

223 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will give an assurance that carer’s allowance will not be cut further in the upcoming budget. [30079/11]

The Estimate for my Department in 2011 provides for expenditure of over €762 million on carer's allowance (including half rate carer's allowance), carer's benefit, domiciliary care allowance and respite care grant schemes. Recipients of carer's allowance may also be entitled to the household benefits package and free travel.

Sustainable public finances are a prerequisite for maintaining an adequate system of social protection as well as achieving future economic stability and growth. The appropriate level of overall expenditure by my Department in the years ahead will be considered in the context of Budget 2012 and subsequent Budgets.

Redundancy Payments

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

224 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Social Protection when an application for redundancy in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cavan will be dealt with; the waiting time for the payment to issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29453/11]

There is no claim for a statutory redundancy lump sum payment registered for the person in question in redundancy section. This may be due to the fact that the application was not registered as a result of incompleteness or because financial information from the person's former employer was not presented with the form (RP50).

Social Welfare Benefits

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

225 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons that used the text message service to request back to education allowance forms; if all requests were dealt with and forms issued; the number of persons that did not receive forms despite requesting the form in this way; the facility in place for those persons who used the service but did not receive a form and who subsequently missed the deadline; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29454/11]

As there is no facility to request by text message the application form for back to education allowance, I assume that the Deputy is referring to the back to school clothing and footwear allowance.

The Department received some 18,000 text requests for the application form for the back to school clothing and footwear allowance this year and a form was issued in each case.

A sympathetic approach is being adopted in relation to genuine late claims i.e. claims from customers that have an entitlement prior to 30th September 2011. The Department is not aware of any cases where customers did not receive the form in response to a form request and where this caused them to miss the deadline, but if there are any such cases the claims will be accepted and decided.

I can assure the Deputy that all valid claims will be paid.

Gerald Nash

Question:

226 Deputy Gerald Nash asked the Minister for Social Protection if there are ever any extenuating circumstances whereby a back to work allowance can be extended; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29481/11]

The Department of Social Protection operates a range of employment support measures designed to encourage and support social welfare recipients of working age to reduce their dependency on welfare payments. These include the back to work enterprise allowance (BTWEA). This scheme is designed to provide a monetary incentive for people who are long term dependant on social welfare payments to develop a business.

The BTWEA allows eligible people to develop a business while retaining a reducing proportion of their qualifying social welfare payment. The period for which the allowance is payable is 2 years, the first year at 100% of existing social welfare entitlement and 75% in the second year. There are no circumstances where payment of the BTWEA is extended for more than two years. However, people who previously participated in the back to work enterprise allowance may apply a second time after a period of at least 5 years has elapsed.

It should also be noted that people who are self-employed for up to three days in a week may claim a jobseeker's payment in respect of the remainder of the week, subject to satisfying a means test and being available for full-time work.

The BTWEA in conjunction with other employment support schemes, will continue to be monitored on an ongoing basis to ensure that it continues to meet its objectives.

Redundancy Payments

Dara Calleary

Question:

227 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding a redundancy application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; if all relevant information is in her possession; if not, the information that is outstanding; the amount outstanding; and when payment will be awarded. [29492/11]

I wish to advise the Deputy that the redundancy payments section of my Department received a lump sum claim in respect of the individual concerned from a liquidator in December 2010. This claim was processed and a payment was issued. The claim in question was calculated in respect of a period of employment from 2005 to 2010. An element of this employment period was excluded as redundancy payments section uncovered a previous claim for the employee which was submitted by his former employer in 2004. This rebate claim covered the period of employment from 1997 to 2004. The applicant signed the rebate claim submitted by his former employer.

Additional information has been supplied in respect of the previous employment period and this is being examined to establish if this further information supports a supplementary payment.

Social Welfare Benefits

Jack Wall

Question:

228 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for rent subsidy in respect of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29495/11]

The community welfare service (CWS) and the community welfare officers providing it transferred formally to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP.

The person concerned has been awarded rent supplement of €637.35 per month from 16 August 2011. This is her full entitlement based on her personal circumstances.

Social Welfare Appeals

Pat Breen

Question:

229 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Social Protection, further to Parliamentary Question No. 344 of 14 September 2011, the position regarding an application in respect of persons (details supplied) in County Clare; and if an oral hearing will be facilitated in relation to same. [29528/11]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 30 August 2011. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought. These papers were received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office and the appeal was assigned to an Appeals Officer on 14 September 2011 who will decide whether the case can be decided on a summary basis or whether to list it for oral hearing.

The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Social Welfare Fraud

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

230 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Social Protection, further to Parliamentary Question No. 105 of 6 October 2011, the number of times in 2008, 2009, 2010 and to date in 2011 she has invoked section 8 of the Data Protection Act 1988 as a means to combat social welfare fraud. [29535/11]

As I have previously advised the Deputy, my Department has, in the last number of years, been engaged in extensive data matching exercises with a number of other Government Departments and public bodies for control purposes, in line with data protection requirements.

The Department has an extensive legal structure to support the sharing of data for the purpose of controlling the entitlement and payment of benefits. The legislative provisions which allow for the specific sharing of data are contained in section 261 of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act, 2005.

In view of this comprehensive social welfare legislation, the Department does not specifically invoke section 8 of the Data Protection Act, 1988, as a means to combat fraud. However, all of the exchanges of data with other agencies are in compliance with both the Department's legislation and with Section 8 of the

Community Employment Schemes

Simon Harris

Question:

231 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of community work places that have been allocated under the Tús scheme to a specific geographic area (details supplied); the number of these places that currently remain unfilled; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29536/11]

Tús is a community work placement initiative which will provide up to 5,000 short-term, quality work opportunities for those who are unemployed for more than a year. This initiative is being delivered through the network of local development companies and Údarás na Gaeltachta in Gaeltacht areas. Each company has been allocated a specific number of placements to fill based on the level of underlying unemployment in the area covered by each company's operations. In county Wicklow, 100 placements have been allocated to Wicklow Partnership Company Limited and 40 to Bray Area Partnership Limited. Both companies are in the process of profiling and recruiting participants referred by this Department and are on course to fill all identified work placements offered by sponsor organisations. To date, 22 participants are in placement with Wicklow Partnership Company and 7 are in placement with Bray Area Partnership. It is expected that the remaining placements will be filled over the coming weeks as profiling of person referred by my Department and Garda Vetting procedures are completed by each company.

Brendan Griffin

Question:

232 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will be eligible to apply for a community employment scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29541/11]

The criteria for participating on community employment are based on individual circumstances related to age, length of time unemployed or absent from the labour market and in receipt of qualifying social welfare payments. Under the current community employment eligibility guidelines the person referred to by the Deputy is not eligible to apply for a CE positions as he has not been in receipt of the relevant payment for the required period. The current arrangements require a person in receipt of illness benefit, to be in receipt of same for a minimum of six months.

Social Welfare Appeals

Finian McGrath

Question:

233 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding domiciliary care allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [29548/11]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 13th August 2011. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by the Social Welfare Services on the grounds of appeal be sought. When received, the appeal in question will be referred to an Appeals Officer for consideration.

The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Community Employment Schemes

Aodhán Ó Ríordáin

Question:

234 Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Minister for Social Protection the community employment schemes available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29552/11]

Community employment is an active labour market programme designed to provide opportunities for people who are unemployed to engage in useful work and training on a fixed term basis with a view to progression to the labour market in the short term. Some 1,100 organisations in the community, voluntary and not-for-profit sectors provide work and training placements for participants nationwide.

The criteria for participating on community employment are based on individual circumstances related to age, length of time unemployed or absent from the labour market and in receipt of qualifying social welfare payments. The programme also focuses on those with more limited access to jobs and training opportunities. This latter client group will include lone parents, persons with disabilities, stabilised substance abusers, ex-prisoners, travellers, long- term unemployed persons.

The number of places available was increased to 23,300 in 2010 and remains at this level of 2011. Places are allocated regionally to reflect the underlying level of unemployment. In delivering these places, FÁS will continue to operate with sponsor organisations in a flexible manner in order to maximise progression to the labour market, while at the same time facilitating support for the delivery of community services.

Social Welfare Benefits

Dan Neville

Question:

235 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding rent allowance from the Health Service Executive in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29565/11]

The community welfare service (CWS), and the community welfare officers providing it, transferred formally to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP.

The person concerned was refused rent supplement for a number of reasons including that the rent payable was in excess of the maximum amount in respect of which a supplement is payable for his family size. In addition, the person in question did not provide the Department's representative with all of the information requested in order to process his claim.

Dara Calleary

Question:

236 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of landlords on a county basis in receipt of rent supplement; the amount being paid on a county basis; if each landlord is registered with the Private Residential Tenancies Board; if she ensures that each property is registered before approving payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29573/11]

The community welfare service (CWS) and the community welfare officers providing it transferred formally to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP.

Since 2005 rent supplement expenditure has increased from €369 million to €516 million in 2010. The number of persons claiming the allowance increased from almost 60,200 persons in 2005 to some 95,700 as at October 2011, a 59% increase.

Under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004, landlords are legally obliged to register tenancies with the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB). However, not all tenancies are required to be registered with the PRTB as the relevant legislation provides for certain exceptions.

Where registration is required, the landlord has up to one month after the commencement of the tenancy to register it with the PRTB at the standard fee and longer to register at a higher fee. It is therefore not practical for the Department to insist that a tenancy be registered before rent supplement can be paid to the tenant as the establishment of the tenancy will be dependent on rent supplement being awarded.

The Department works closely with the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) to help ensure that rent supplement tenancies comply with the statutory system of tenancy regulation and safeguards. The Department advises the PRTB of all new rent supplemented tenancies to assist them in implementing tenancy regulations and co-operates in any initiatives taken by the PRTB to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Residential Tenancies Act.

The number of landlords and expenditure on rent supplement are not available on a county basis. However, the table provides details on the number of rent supplement tenancies in payment at end 2010.

Rent Supplement Recipients

County

Recipients

Carlow

1,484

Cavan

1,029

Clare

1,937

Cork

10,988

Donegal

3,194

Dublin

33,818

Galway

4,829

Kerry

2,339

Kildare

4,409

Kilkenny

1,577

Laois

1,151

Leitrim

530

Limerick

3,896

Longford

715

Louth

2,563

Mayo

3,012

Meath

2,552

Monaghan

598

Offaly

1,273

Roscommon

1,276

Sligo

787

Tipperary

2,680

Waterford

2,332

Westmeath

1,623

Wexford

4,055

Wicklow

2,613

Community Employment Schemes

Brendan Griffin

Question:

237 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection if there is scope to extend community employment schemes (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29581/11]

As Minister for Social Protection I do not have a role in the administration of individual cases in regard to the operation of the community employment (CE) programme. The administration of individual cases under CE is a day-to-day matter for FÁS as part of its responsibility under the Labour Services Act, 1987, as amended by Part 3 of the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2010.

In general, the maximum participation limits for community employment is one year with the opportunity to extend for a further year if this is considered the most suitable and cost effective measure to assist the client in gaining employment. A person may be eligible for different periods of engagement and extensions on CE due to their age or if they are in receipt of a qualifying disability-related payment from my Department or have previously been engaged on a scheme. Extensions of a CE placement have to be requested a minimum of eight weeks before the proposed finish date by the CE Project Supervisor. Once an extension application is received by the local FÁS office, a determination is made as to whether the placement is the most suitable and cost effective measure to assist the client in gaining employment. Clients who are deemed job-ready by the Supervisor are not extended in order to free up the place for another client. If no request for an extension is requested then the person must leave the scheme and re-qualify under the published eligibility rules for any further participation on the CE scheme.

The overall limits on duration spent on CE are strictly enforced to maximise the number of places available for potential clients and to ensure progression. A person may check their eligibility for extensions of the time spent on community employment by contacting their local FÁS office.

Social Welfare Appeals

Brendan Griffin

Question:

238 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection when an oral hearing will take place in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29615/11]

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.

There has been a very significant increase in the number of appeals received by the Social Welfare Appeals Office since 2007 when the intake was 14,070 to 2010 when the intake rose to 32,432. This has significantly impacted on the processing time for appeals which require oral hearings and, in order to be fair to all appellants, they are dealt with in strict chronological order. In the context of dealing with the considerable number of appeals now on hand, the Department made 9 additional appointments to the office earlier this year.

While every effort is being made to deal with the large numbers awaiting oral hearing as quickly as possible, it is not possible to give a date when the person's oral hearing will be heard, but s/he 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.

Social Welfare Benefits

Jack Wall

Question:

239 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kildare has had their rent supplement reduced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29632/11]

The community welfare service (CWS), and the community welfare officers providing it, formally transferred to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP. Due to a change in circumstances for the person concerned, in that her jobseeker's benefit payment had finished, the person's rent supplement entitlement has been recalculated. Arrears are now due in respect of this recalculation for the months of July to September. Payment in respect of these arrears will be issued to the person concerned shortly.

Employment Support Services

Simon Harris

Question:

240 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection about the funding provided nationally to support local employment services each year; the breakdown of the funding by region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29676/11]

The Local Employment Service provides a range of services to unemployed people focusing on the provision of practical support, advice, guidance and information relating to employment, training and return to work and welfare rights options. The service is community-based and operated by Local Development Companies in 25 designated disadvantaged areas with funding provided by FÁS. The service is free, voluntary and confidential and tailored to meet local circumstances and the needs of the person. Expenditure by FÁS on the local employment services programmes for the years 2009, 2010 and 2011 is set out in the following table. FÁS has advised that expenditure for the whole of 2011 is expected to be broadly similar to 2010.

Local Employment Services Programme Actual Expenditure by Region € (m)

Region

2011 (to end Sept)

2010

2009

Dublin

6.682

9.466

9.535

North East

1.087

1.555

1.587

South East

1.551

2.211

2.083

South West

1.432

2.041

1.966

Mid West

1.045

1.406

1.333

West

1.102

1.391

1.543

Midlands

0.634

0.894

0.916

Central

0.012

0.014

0.007

Total

13.546

18.978

18.970

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

241 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding the Croke Park agreement; if he has received implementation plans for the agreement from her Department and each State agency under her remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion she has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29690/11]

An action plan was prepared by my Department in accordance with the requirements of the Public Service (Croke Park) Agreement 2010-2014. Action Plans were also prepared by the agencies under the aegis of my Department, namely the Citizens Information Board and the Pensions Board.

My Department's Action Plan and those of the agencies under the aegis of my Department were prepared having regard to the economic and budgetary environment. Full implementation of the Action Plans requires major organisational change, involving changes in structures, business processes, administrative, operating and governance systems, practices and procedures, supported by significant human resource and ICT changes.

My Department is striving to provide an effective service to its customers in the most efficient manner that can reasonably be achieved and is fully committed to delivering on the Action Plans in order to secure service improvements and efficiencies. In accordance with paragraph 1.16 of the Public Service Agreement, a review of the implementation of the Agreement was undertaken in my Department. The progress and savings reports on the implementation of the Action Plan for the period to end March 2011 were submitted to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform on 3rd May 2011. Similarly, the progress and savings reports of the agencies under the aegis of my Department were also submitted at that time. A second review of the implementation of the Agreement is currently being undertaken in my Department on the progress achieved over the 6-month period, April 2011 to September 2011, as requested by the Implementation Body.

Following these reviews, I can confirm that all targets to the end of September 2011 have been met and that all actions are currently on schedule for delivery in accordance with the specified timeframes. I wish to advise the Deputy that I have had no discussions with the EU and IMF regarding the Public Service Agreement.

Social Welfare Benefits

John McGuinness

Question:

242 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Social Protection if an application for financial assistance towards travel costs to attend hospital will be granted in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Wexford. [29701/11]

The community welfare service (CWS), and the community welfare officers providing it, formally transferred to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP. Under the supplementary allowance scheme (SWA) an exceptional needs payment (ENP) may be made to help meet an essential, once-off cost which the applicant is unable to meet out of his/her own resources. There is no automatic entitlement to this payment. Each application is determined based on the particular circumstances of the case. Eligible people would normally be in receipt of a social welfare or HSE payment. The Department's representative administering SWA has refused an exceptional needs payment in this case and has advised the person concerned of his right to appeal the decision to the relevant appeals office.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

243 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection, further to Parliamentary Question No. 97 of 28 September 2011, the current or expected position in respect of an application for back-to-education allowance in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29713/11]

The person concerned has applied for the back to education allowance (BTEA) in respect of a BTEC Higher National Diploma which is classified as a third level course in accordance with BTEA guidelines. As the person concerned has not been in receipt of a qualifying payment for 234 days he does not satisfy the conditions for receipt of BTEA (third level option).

Employment Support Services

Simon Harris

Question:

244 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection how community employment places in an area (details supplied) have been divided up between community organisations; the rationale for the allocation of these places; her views on whether there should be a greater spread of CE posts across community and voluntary organisations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29717/11]

Community employment helps long-term unemployed people to re-enter the active workforce by breaking their experience of unemployment through a return to work routine. The focus of CE is on developing technical and personal skills to enable a person to return to the open labour market. Persons engaged are provided with work and training placements of 19½ hours duration per week with a not-for-profit community sponsor delivery local services.

FÁS is required to operate within the operational budget set for each programme and the funding allocated for 2011 will allow for the provision of some 23,300 places nationally. If places become available, FÁS uses the following criteria to allocate these places:

number of people on the live register in the area;

extent to which the primary objective of the additional positions will increase the employability of unemployed persons;

whether the service offered by the CE provider is for a disadvantaged group;

whether the local community views the programme of value, as measured by community support;

whether the sponsor has got a record of providing a training plan for each person on the programme; and

whether the sponsor has a record of progressing participants into employment.

Social Welfare Benefits

David Stanton

Question:

245 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Social Protection, further to Parliamentary Question No. 239 of 27 September 2011, the reasons a supplementary welfare allowance mortgage interest supplement payment awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Cork from 12 September 2011 has been stopped; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29721/11]

The community welfare service (CWS) and the community welfare officers providing it transferred formally to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP. The mortgage interest supplement claim of the person concerned was suspended while his entitlement was being reviewed. The review has since been completed and arrears have now issued to the person concerned.

Social Welfare Appeals

John Lyons

Question:

246 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an appeal against the decision to refuse an application for a clothing allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9; and if she will expedite a decision on same. [29728/11]

The community welfare service (CWS), and the community welfare officers providing it, formally transferred to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP. Under the supplementary allowance scheme (SWA) an exceptional needs payment (ENP) may be made to help meet an essential, once-off cost which the applicant is unable to meet out of his/her own resources. There is no automatic entitlement to this payment. Each application is determined based on the particular circumstances of the case. Eligible people would normally be in receipt of a social welfare or HSE payment.

The Department's representative administering SWA has refused an exceptional needs payment in this case and has advised the person concerned of his right to appeal the decision to the relevant appeals office. To date there is no record of an appeal in this case.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

247 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Social Protection what the saving to the Exchequer would be if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of her Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29786/11]

The savings to the Exchequer arising from the capping at €35,000 per annum of those pension payments which are funded by my Department and made to former employees of the Citizen's Information Board would be €20,044 in 2011. The pensions of staff who retire from the two other agencies of my Department (the Pensions Board and the Office of the Pensions Ombudsman) are not funded through the Vote of my Department and, accordingly, the information requested is not available in my Department.

Social Welfare Benefits

Pat Breen

Question:

248 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Social Protection when an application will be processed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29792/11]

The person concerned should contact Bishop Square Local Office regarding his Jobseeker's application. However, individuals who commence a JobBridge internship can expect to receive their additional top-up payment of €50 per week approximately 3 weeks after commencing the internship.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

249 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason for refusal of payment in respect of an application for carer’s allowance in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; if this parliamentary question will be taken as lodgement of an appeal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29811/11]

The person concerned was refused carer's allowance on grounds that he has not established that he is providing full-time care and attention as laid down in the carer's allowance guidelines. The Department is satisfied that the care recipient has a requirement for full-time care. He was notified of this decision, the reason for it and of his right of review or appeal within 21days to the social welfare appeals office. If further details are provided by the person in question regarding the extent of the care being provided by him, the decision will be reviewed by a deciding officer.

Social Welfare Appeals

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

250 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection, further to Parliamentary Question No. 127 of 4 October 2011, when an appeal will be heard in respect of an application for carer’s allowance in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29886/11]

Further to my response to Parliamentary Question Ref. No. 127 on 05 October 2011, I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that there is no update to the information given previously. 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.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

251 Deputy Paul J. Connaughton asked the Minister for Social Protection when an appeal for carer’s allowance will be finalised in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29889/11]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 16th June 2011. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought. These papers were received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 06 October 2011 and the appeal will, in due course, be assigned to an Appeals Officer who will decide whether the case can be decided on a summary basis or whether to list it for oral hearing.

The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Social Welfare Benefits

Jack Wall

Question:

252 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for mortgage interest relief in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29892/11]

The community welfare service (CWS) and the community welfare officers providing it transferred formally to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP. The person concerned was requested to provide further information to process his application for a mortgage interest supplement. When this information is received a decision will be made on his application.

Social Welfare Appeals

Patrick Deering

Question:

253 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision on an application for carer’s allowance will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if she will expedite a response. [29893/11]

The person concerned was refused carer's allowance on grounds that the Department's medical assessor expressed the opinion that the care recipient is not so disabled as to require full-time care and attention as prescribed in regulations. She was notified of this decision, the reason for it and of her right of review or appeal. Additional medical evidence has been received and will be reviewed by a medical assessor in due course. She will be notified directly of the outcome of the review once it is completed.

Social Welfare Benefits

Jack Wall

Question:

254 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will receive their arrears of carer’s allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29899/11]

The person concerned has been awarded carer's allowance. Arrears of allowance due from the date of his application for carer's allowance, less any other payment made to him for the intervening period, will issue shortly.

Terence Flanagan

Question:

255 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding entitlements in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 17; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29921/11]

The community welfare service (CWS), and the community welfare officers providing it, formally transferred to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP. Apart from a number of excluded categories, anyone in the State who satisfies a habitual residency condition and a means test, who has registered for employment, unless they have a physical or mental disability, and can prove unemployment may qualify for a weekly payment of supplementary welfare allowance (SWA).

Departmental records show that there are currently no social welfare claims pending for the person concerned. Should the person concerned wish to be considered for assistance from the Department he may make an application for jobseeker's allowance in his designated social welfare local office in Greendale Road, Kilbarrack, Dublin 5. Additionally he may wish to make an application for assistance under the SWA scheme. Applications for SWA can be made to the Department's designated representatives in the local health centre in Foxfield Crescent, Kilbarrack, Dublin 5. Full details in relation to the assistance available can be obtained on the Department's website on www.welfare.ie.

Departmental Expenditure

Damien English

Question:

256 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Social Protection the total departmental expenditure as a percentage of GDP for each of the years 2006 to 2009, inclusive; her estimate for same for 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29927/11]

Social protection statistics are reported at EU level based on the ESSPROS methodology. That has much wider coverage than Department of Social Protection (DSP) expenditure, as it includes health expenditure, public service pensions and other significant expenditures. On that basis, Irish social protection expenditure was 18.3% of GDP in 2006, compared to an EU 27 average of 26.7%. By 2008, Irish expenditure had increased to 22.1% of GDP, while the EU average had fallen back to 26.4%.

The most recent year in respect of which EU-wide comparative data are available is 2008. Given the significant increase in social welfare expenditure and the decrease in GDP since 2008, Irish social protection spending, based on the ESSPROS methodology, is likely to have moved much closer to the EU average by 2011.

DSP expenditure as a percentage of GDP for the years 2006-2010 and an estimate for 2011 of same are in the following tabular statement. This shows that expenditure by my Department has risen from less than 8% of GDP in 2006 to over 13% of GDP in 2010 and is expected to be at a broadly similar level in 2011.

Year

DSP Expenditure as a Percentage of GDP

2006

7.7%

2007

8.2%

2008

9.9%

2009

12.9%

2010

13.5%

2011 (estimated)

13.3%

School Meals Programme

Gerry Adams

Question:

257 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Social Protection the total cost of the school meals programme operated by her; and the cost of same for each of the past five years. [29929/11]

The School Meals Programme gives funding towards the provision of food services for disadvantaged children through two schemes. The first is the statutory Urban School Meals Scheme, operated by local authorities and part-financed by this Department. The second is the School Meals Local Projects Scheme through which funding is provided directly to participating schools and local and voluntary community groups who run their own school meals projects. The allocation for the programme for 2011 is €35m. Expenditure on the School Meals Programme for each of the past five years is set out in the following tabular statement.

School Meals Programme Expenditure 2006 to 2010

Year

Urban School Meals Scheme

School Meals Local Projects Scheme

Total

2006

€1.16m

€12.5m

€13.6m

2007

€1.16m

€27.04m

€28.2m

2008

€1.1m

€31.28m

€32.38m

2009

€1.2m

€33.64m

€34.84m

2010

€0.79m

€34.17m

€34.96m

Community Welfare Service

Barry Cowen

Question:

258 Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will confirm the legal status of any circulars issued from her to the community welfare service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29933/11]

The community welfare service (CWS), and the community welfare officers providing it, formally transferred to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the Department of Social Protection.

The purpose of Circulars issued by my Department is to provide information, guidance, clarification and interpretations to staff on all aspects of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme. All decisions in relation to the supplementary welfare allowance scheme will continue to be based on the legislative provisions as set down in the various Social Welfare Acts and are supported by statutory regulations.

Social Welfare Code

Michelle Mulherin

Question:

259 Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Social Protection if endometriosis is recognised as a disability; and the extent to which it is recognised for the purpose of assessing a person’s entitlement to a disability payment. [29935/11]

Endometriosis (WHO ICD-10 code N80.9) is a gynaecological medical condition. It is recognised by the Department of Social Protection as a medical condition which may result in some form of disability. Medical suitability for a disability payment is determined by medical assessment of its severity and expected duration.

Social Welfare Benefits

Jack Wall

Question:

260 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for rent allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29950/11]

The community welfare service (CWS) and the community welfare officers providing it transferred formally to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP.

The person concerned has made an application for rent supplement and has been requested to provide further information in order to process her claim. A decision will be made on her application when the information has been provided.

Live Register

Eamonn Maloney

Question:

261 Deputy Eamonn Maloney asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons on the live register at the end of September 2011 who are categorised as teachers; if teachers, when registering, provide information as to their teaching qualifications (that is, primary or post-primary); if this is available as a breakdown of the numbers on the register; and the comparable figures regarding the live register for year ending September 2010. [29957/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the tabular statement. The breakdown of teaching professionals between primary and post-primary teachers and information regarding their teaching qualifications is not available.

Teaching Professionals End September

Live Register

2010 Numbers

% of Live Register

2011 Numbers

% of Live Register

Jobseeker’s Allowance

4,019

.91%

4,185

.96%

Jobseeker’s Benefit

3,735

.84%

3,364

.77%

Credits Only

1,749

.40%

2,165

.49%

Total

9,503

2.15%

9,714

2.22%

Question No. 262 withdrawn.

Community Employment Schemes

Martin Heydon

Question:

263 Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare may take part in a community employment scheme for a position that has come up in their local area for which they are qualified and experienced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29970/11]

The criteria for participating on community employment are based on individual circumstances related to age, length of time unemployed or absent from the labour market and in receipt of qualifying social welfare payments. The person referred to by the Deputy can establish their eligibility with FÁS at the Newbridge Employment Services Office, Main Street, Newbridge (045 431372). It is a matter for the Board and supervisors of the sponsor group with the support of the local FÁS Development Officer to determine the suitability of a person for a vacant CE position once they have satisfied the eligibility conditions.

Social Welfare Benefits

Jim Daly

Question:

264 Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Social Protection the amount of rent allowance that has been paid out by the State for each of the years from 2000 to 2010 in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29971/11]

The rent supplement expenditure for the years 2000 to 2010 is set out in the following tabular statement.

Rent Supplement Recipient Numbers & Expenditure: 2000 to 2010

Year

Recipients

Cost €000

2000

42,683

150,590

2001

45,028

179,438

2002

54,213

252,203

2003

59,976

331,471

2004

57,874

353,762

2005

60,176

368,705

2006

59,861

388,339

2007

59,726

391,466

2008

74,038

440,548

2009

93,030

510,751

2010

97,260

516,861

John Lyons

Question:

265 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will confirm that she has received medical documentation from a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9 with regard to their application for an invalidity pension. [29985/11]

Invalidity pension is a payment for people who are permanently incapable of work because of illness or incapacity and who satisfy the contribution conditions.

An invalidity pension application form was received for the person concerned. All medical documentation relating to the application was referred to a medical assessor. The opinion of the medical assessor is that the person concerned is not eligible for invalidity pension as she does not satisfy the medical criteria. The application for invalidity pension was disallowed. She was notified of this decision on 14 October 2011.

Social Welfare Code

Robert Troy

Question:

266 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will review the criteria for the approval of mortgage interest supplement in order to include relief for those who have been disallowed mortgage interest relief because the rate of interest they pay is higher than current limits allow. [29996/11]

The purpose of the mortgage interest supplement scheme is to provide short term support to eligible people who are unable to meet their mortgage interest repayments in respect of a house which is their sole place of residence. The supplement assists with the interest portion of the mortgage repayments only.

At the end of December 2010 there were 17,974 people in receipt of mortgage interest supplement, an increase of 337% over the 2007 figure. There are currently over 18,500 households benefiting from the scheme for which €77.2m has been allocated for 2011.

The community welfare service (CWS), and the community welfare officers providing it, transferred formally to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP.

Under the rules governing mortgage interest supplement, it is a condition of entitlement that the amount of the mortgage interest payable by the claimant does not exceed what the Department's representative considers reasonable to meet his or her residential needs.

However, legislative provisions are already in place that allows a Department's representative to award a mortgage interest supplement to a claimant on a discretionary basis for a maximum period of 12 months where the amount of mortgage interest exceeds what the Department's representative considers reasonable to meet his or her residential and other needs. When making a decision in relation to payment of mortgage interest supplement on a discretionary basis, a number of factors have to be considered, including: — Whether there is an indication that the claimant will be in a position to re-assume responsibility for repayments in the near future; — Where the claimant's interest repayment liability combined with projected reduction in interest rates indicate that the interest repayments on the loan may be reduced in the near future and may come into line with local rent or mortgage interest limits; — In accordance with the statutory Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears the claimant has re-negotiated and reached an agreement with the lender for a re-scheduling of the mortgage repayments and capitalisation of any arrears which have accrued.

Simon Harris

Question:

267 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will recognise the societal contribution made by carers by reclassifying the carer’s allowance to ensure carers remain eligible for PRSI contribution stamps while exercising their role as carers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30002/11]

The Government is acutely aware and appreciative of the societal contribution made by carers and recognises this in social welfare provision. The estimated expenditure for carers in 2011, including carer's allowance, carer's benefit and respite care grant is approximately €658 million compared to just under €100 million in 2000. This does not include the cost of the household benefits package or free travel which carers also receive.

Since the introduction of the carer's allowance in 1990 payments to carers have been increased and expanded greatly. Even with the reductions announced in the last two budgets for carers under 66, the weekly rate of payment for the carers allowance is still almost 33% higher this year than in 2005 and almost double what it was in 2000.

Recipients of carer's allowance are also eligible for household benefits, free travel and the respite care grant of €1,700.

The means test for carer's allowance has been significantly eased over the years, and is now one of the most generous means tests in the social welfare system, most notably with regard to spouse's earnings. Since April 2008, the income disregard has been €332.50 per week for a single person and €665 per week for a couple. This means that a couple with two children can earn in the region of €35,400 and qualify for the maximum rate of carer's allowance as well as the associated free travel and household benefits. A couple with an income in the region of €59,300 can still qualify for a minimum payment, as well as the associated free travel, household benefits package. These levels ensure that those on average industrial earnings continue to qualify for a full carer's allowance.

The carer's allowance is an income support provided for those who are unable to take up full-time paid employment due to their caring responsibilities. It is not possible simply to reclassify it as earned income, subject to PRSI contributions. Persons in receipt of carer's allowance, carer's benefit and the respite care grant may, however, engage in employment, self employment, training or education outside the home for up to 15 hours per week and still be considered to be providing full-time care and attention for the purposes of the schemes. This means that where a carer remains in employment he or she will continue to pay the appropriate social insurance contribution. Also, any person, including carers, may pay voluntary contributions once they satisfy certain qualifying conditions.

People who qualify for payments such as carer's allowance or carer's benefit may, subject to conditions, qualify for credited contributions for the period they are receiving the payment.

Credited contributions form an integral part of the social insurance system. They are underwritten by the Social Insurance Fund and are designed to protect the social insurance entitlement record of insured workers who — for reasons relating to incapacity, ill-health, unemployment, early retirement, professional training or the provisions of care (i.e. for children, the disabled or the elderly) — are not in a position to make PRSI payments.

In addition, the social welfare pension rights of those who take time out of the workforce for caring duties are protected by the homemaker's scheme which was introduced in 1994. The scheme allows up to 20 years spent caring for children or incapacitated adults to be disregarded when a person's social insurance record is being averaged for pension purposes.

The homemaker's scheme will not of itself qualify a person for a pension. The standard qualifying conditions, which require a person to enter insurance 10 years before pension age, pay a minimum of 260 contributions at the correct rate (rising to 520 from April 2012), and achieve a yearly average of at least 10 contributions on their record from the time they enter insurance until they reach pension age, must also be satisfied.

Social Welfare Benefits

Tony McLoughlin

Question:

268 Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of children between the ages of two and four years in respect of whom the back to school clothing and footwear allowance is paid; the cost of this scheme to the Exchequer in the school year 2010-11; and the number of two year old children who attend primary school, or if this allowance is paid in respect of two year olds who attend pre-school facilities. [30014/11]

The Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance (BSCFA) scheme provides a one-off payment to eligible families to assist with the extra costs when their children start school each autumn. The allowance is not intended to meet the full cost of school clothing and footwear but only to provide assistance towards these costs. Expenditure on the scheme in 2010 was €77.4m with some 162,500 payments made in respect of approximately 325,000 children.

The number of children aged 2 to 4 years of age (inclusive) that benefited in 2010 was 63,200. The number of such children for the 2011 scheme will be available when all claims are processed. Statistics are not available regarding the number of these that were attending school or preschool.

The BSCFA scheme was introduced in 1990. This scheme superseded the arrangements which had been in place since 1977 whereby child clothing and footwear payments were made under the exceptional needs provisions of the Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) scheme. The SWA clothing and footwear scheme had in turn replaced a previous Public Assistance Footwear scheme that had been introduced in 1944.

These previous schemes had been targeted at both school and pre-school children from the age of two years up. When the BSCFA scheme was introduced, the provision to pay the allowance to children from the age of two years up was retained.

At the end of this year's BSCFA scheme a review will be undertaken of all aspects of the operation of the scheme, including eligibility criteria.

Pat Breen

Question:

269 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) in County Clare has been refused payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30055/11]

The community welfare service (CWS), and the community welfare officers providing it, formally transferred to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP.

The Department's representative administering the supplementary welfare allowance scheme has refused the person concerned a mortgage interest supplement payment as it is considered that he has sufficient income to meet his mortgage interest costs.

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

270 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection if any case has ever been referred to her whereby a person has purposely disengaged from his or her place of work in order to have the State pay their mortgage; if she will clarify the provisions made for paying such mortgages if a person is deemed to qualify; if she will clarify the criteria to qualify, and the number of persons availing of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30071/11]

The community welfare service (CWS) and the community welfare officers providing it transferred formally to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP.

At the end of December 2010 there were 17,974 people in receipt of mortgage interest supplement, an increase of 337% over the 2007 figure. There are currently over 18,500 households benefiting from the scheme for which €77.2m has been allocated for 2011.

Under the mortgage interest supplement means-test, where a Department's representative is aware that an applicant has deprived himself or herself of an income in order to qualify for supplementary welfare allowance, the weekly value of all income forgone is assessed in full.

The Department is unaware of any instances where applicants have deprived themselves of an income in order to qualify for mortgage interest supplement.

Social Welfare Appeals

John O'Mahony

Question:

271 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive a reply in respect of their carer’s allowance appeal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30133/11]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 02 June 2011. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought. These papers were received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 23 September 2011 and the appeal will, in due course, be assigned to an Appeals Officer who will decide whether the case can be decided on a summary basis or whether to list it for oral hearing.

The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Social Welfare Benefits

Jack Wall

Question:

272 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will receive a decision on their application for mortgage interest relief; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30147/11]

The community welfare service (CWS) and the community welfare officers providing it transferred formally to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) from 1 October 2011. The service and the staff are now part of the DSP.

The entitlement to mortgage interest supplement of the person concerned is currently under review. A decision will be made on her entitlement shortly.

Departmental Schemes

Stephen S. Donnelly

Question:

273 Deputy Stephen Donnelly asked the Minister for Social Protection the targets or benchmarks agreed at the outset of the JobBridge scheme in order to assess its ultimate success; if there have been any interim reports against these targets; the measures being taken to ensure that participating firms are not using the scheme to replace paid workers; and the procedures that will be followed at the conclusion of the scheme for evaluating its success. [30170/11]

JobBridge, the national internship scheme, was launched on 29 June 2011 and came into operation on 1 July 2011. It will provide up to 5,000 unemployed people at any one time with an internship opportunity of 6 or 9 months in an organisation in the private, public or community and voluntary sectors.

It is our hope that as many as possible eligible unemployed people on the Live Register participate in JobBridge over the course of the scheme's lifetime.

As the scheme has been running for only 3 months and the minimum internship term is 6 months, no review of the impact of JobBridge has yet taken place. A full evaluation of the scheme will be undertaken. As part of this review it is envisaged that progression rates of participants into employment will be a key performance indicator.

The JobBridge scheme contains a number of measures to minimise displacement including the following:

all Host Organisations must declare in their application that they are not displacing an employee and that they have no vacancy in the specific area;

the JobBridge team check all applications against recent vacancies advertised on the FÁS Jobs Ireland website;

if the JobBridge team suspects that displacement may be an issue, they can liaise with regional FÁS management to find out more information on the company.

In order for all applications from host organisations to be approved they must also meet a number of criteria so as to ensure that the potential internships are of sufficient quality.

These include the following:

That the internship does not allow the intern to work unsupervised;

That the intern accrues significant experience throughout the entire internship.

In order for an internship to commence a Standard Internship Agreement must be signed by both the intern and the host organisation. This Agreement clearly stipulates the terms of the internship and states the specific learning outcomes the intern will receive over the course of their internship.

To ensure compliance with the scheme, my Department and the JobBridge team are monitoring internships to ensure that both host organisations and interns are abiding by the spirit and the rules of the scheme.

This involves the monitoring of monthly compliance reports which the host organisation uses to verify that the internship is proceeding as set out in the Standard Internship Agreement. In addition, contact with the host organisations and interns including random site visits will begin shortly as part of this process.

The scheme also has a ‘whistle blowing' feature, where any individual who suspects that an internship may be in breach of the scheme's criteria, including in cases of suspected displacement or poor quality, may contact the National Call Centre. All such claims will be investigated. Where it is proven that displacement has occurred in a Host Organisation their internship opportunities will be removed and they will not be allowed to participate in JobBridge.

Appointments to State Boards

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

274 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Social Protection the saving to the State if all State agency board members’ annual payments were rescinded and instead board membership was awarded without remuneration. [30260/11]

The three statutory bodies operating under the aegis of the Department are the Social Welfare Tribunal, the Citizens Information Board and the Pensions Board. In addition, the Office of the Pensions Ombudsman comes under the remit of the Department but it does not have a board.

The members of the Social Welfare Tribunal are not in receipt of an annual remuneration. The Tribunal meets if required to deal with social welfare entitlement issues arising in the context of an industrial disputes. The chairperson is paid a set fee of €488.11 per day sitting and €73.44 for attending meetings. Members are paid a set fee of €136.71 per day sitting and €68.36 for attending meetings.

The Pensions Board is a regulatory body operating under the aegis of the Department and the statutory role of the board is to monitor and supervise the operation of the Pensions Act 1990 (as amended). The operations of the Pensions Board, including payment of fees to the board members, are largely financed by annual fees payable to it by occupational pension schemes and by providers of Personal Retirement Savings Accounts and trust Retirement Annuity Contracts.

The fees paid to members of the Pensions Board in 2010 were €119,700. There would be no saving to the State in the event of these fees being withdrawn as the fees to the board members are funded by the Pensions Industry.

With regard to the Citizens Information Board the maximum amount of fees payable in respect of board members is currently €86,783 per annum. This is in line with the fees payable to members of boards of category 4 non-commercial public service bodies, as outlined in the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (No. 2) Act 2009.

Additional information in relation to the boards of the Social Welfare Tribunal, the Citizens Information Board and the Pensions Board is available on the Department's website www.welfare.ie/EN/AboutUs/Pages/stateagencies.aspx

The Pensions Ombudsman is charged with investigating and deciding complaints and disputes concerning occupational pension schemes, trust-based retirement annuity contracts and personal retirement savings accounts (PRSAs). The Office of the Ombudsman does not have a board and therefore no fees in relation to board members occur.

Wildlife Protection

Robert Troy

Question:

275 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the position regarding the reintroduction of a licence in respect of an organisation (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29791/11]

The Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2010 prohibited activities that formerly were carried out under licence by the organisation concerned. It is not, therefore, possible to issue a licence as referred to in the Deputy's Question.

Fógairt Reachtaíochta

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

276 D’fhiafraigh Peadar Tóibín den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta cén uair a bhfuil sé i gceist aige Bille nua maidir le hÚdarás na Gaeilge a thabhairt os comhair na Dála; an bhfuil sé i gceist próiseas comhairliúcháin a thosú sna ceantair Ghaeltachta ar fad; agus idir an dá linn an bhfuil sé sásta Príomh-Fheidhmeannach nua a cheapadh. [30174/11]

Ar 31 Bealtaine 2011, thóg an Rialtas na cinntí seo a leanas maidir le struchtúr agus feidhmeanna Údarás na Gaeltachta:

go mairfidh an status quo maidir le feidhmeanna reatha Údarás na Gaeltachta go ginearálta, a chuid feidhmeanna fiontraíochta san áireamh, faoi réir:

(a) foráil reachtúil a dhéanamh chun cumhacht a thabhairt don Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta treoir a thabhairt don Údarás a chuid acmhainní teoranta a infheistiú in earnálacha fiontraíochta ar leith; agus

(b) meicníocht a fhorbairt chun go mbeidh Údarás na Gaeltachta in ann comhoibriú le háisíneachtaí fiontraíochta eile, ach go háirithe i gcás tograí suntasacha Gaeltachta a bhfuil poitéinseal ard acu.

go mbeidh an fhreagracht maidir le forfheidhmiú na Straitéise 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge laistigh den Ghaeltacht ar Údarás na Gaeltachta; agus

go ndéanfar foráil faoin mBille Gaeltachta atá beartaithe chun bord an Údaráis a laghdú go suntasach agus chun deireadh a chur leis an riachtanas do thoghcháin do bhord an Údaráis.

Tá na Cinn don mBille Gaeltachta a thabharfaidh feidhm do na cinntí seo, de réir mar is cuí, dréachtaithe ag mo Roinn agus táthar ag súil na dréacht-Chinn a chur faoi bhráid an Rialtais go luath. Tá an Bille Gaeltachta le foilsiú in 2012, de réir chlár reachtaíochta an Rialtais.

Tá próiseas comhairliúcháin cuimsitheach curtha i gcrích ag mo Roinn le blianta beaga anuas i ndáil le hullmhú na Straitéise 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge. Ar ndóigh, beifear ag dul i gcomhairle le pobal na Gaeltachta, agus leis an bpobal i gcoitinne, ag amanna cuí de réir mar a bheidh bearta éagsúla na Straitéise á gcur i bhfeidhm.

Tá céimeanna sa treis ag mo Roinn chun cead na Roinne Caiteachais Phoiblí agus Athchóirithe a fháil chun príomhfheidhmeannach buan a cheapadh ar Údarás na Gaeltachta.

Heritage Sites

Gerry Adams

Question:

277 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if a decision has been made on an application (details supplied) under section 14 of the 1930 Act; and when a decision will issue. [29491/11]

The application referred to by the Deputy is being examined in my Department and a decision will be made as quickly as possible.

Wildlife Protection

Dominic Hannigan

Question:

278 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if a decision has been made on the inclusion of the curlew under the open seasons order for hunting in November 2011; the number of meetings that have taken place on this issue; if he has had held meetings with other Departments regarding the impact of their policies on the habitat of the curlew; if he has contacted other countries regarding their preservation policies in respect of the curlew; his plans to carry out an analysis of the number of curlews that will overwinter here; his preparation for a long-term strategy to rebuild the curlew population here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29567/11]

The curlew is red-listed as a globally threatened species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature since 2007. A recent survey published by BirdWatch Ireland indicated that, based on the results of a survey to find breeding curlews in counties Donegal and Mayo, the current number of breeding pairs in the State may have fallen to less than 200. However, there is a large influx of curlews into Ireland every winter and the winter numbers have not shown a parallel decline. Overwintering curlews are routinely monitored at many wetland sites through the Irish Wetland Bird Survey.

The cause of the decline in breeding is not clear. It is possible that the loss of habitat in upland areas, where afforestation, commercial peat-cutting and wind farm developments have taken place, is a factor in the decline of the species. It is also likely that the spread of forestry has boosted the number of foxes and grey crows, both very efficient predators of nests.

Under the Open Seasons Order the hunting of curlew is allowed in the month of November only. My Department is reviewing its inclusion on the shooting list in view of the steep decline in breeding curlews. My Department is also engaging in a process of consultations with relevant parties, and will consult the authorities in neighbouring countries, with a view to ascertaining the causes of the decline and putting appropriate measures in place.

Arts Funding

Michael Creed

Question:

279 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the level of funding the Arts Council has received for the past five years; the funding allocated to Aosdána either by him or by the Arts Council for the past five years; the purpose of this Aosdána funding; if he will publish a list of members of Aosdána and the public funding that it receives from him or the Arts Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29610/11]

The Arts Council established Aosdána in 1981 to honour those artists whose work has made an outstanding contribution to the arts in Ireland and to encourage and assist members in devoting their energies fully to their art. Membership of the organisation, which is by peer nomination and election, is limited to 250 living artists, who have produced a distinguished body of work. Members of the organisation must also have been born in Ireland or have been resident here for five years. Members of Aosdána are eligible to receive from the Arts Council a ‘Cnuas'— a means-tested annuity for a term of five years — to assist them in concentrating their time and energies in the full-time pursuit of their art.

Details of the current membership of Aosdána and a schedule of those members in receipt of the Cnuas are available on the Arts Council website at www.artscouncil.ie. The table shows my Department’s grant-in-aid to the Arts Council along with funding provided by the Arts Council to Aosdána over the five year period from 2006-2010. My Department does not award funding directly to Aosdána.

Year

Arts Council funding by my Department

Total amount paid to Aosdána*

Number of Aosdána members

Number receiving Cnuas

Annual amount of Cnuas

2006

€82,310,000

€1,547,749

220

122

€12,180

2007

€83,000,000

€1,490,912

220

130

€12,180

2008

€82,102,000

€1,684,401

232

133

€14,180

2009

€73,350,000

€2,088,649

239

144

€17,180

2010

€68,649,000

€2,579,412

245

152

€17,180

*Comprises the Cnuas (the stipend paid to Aosdána members in need of financial support), pension contributions and administration costs.

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

280 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the position regarding the Croke Park agreement; if he has received implementation plans for this agreement from his Department and each State agency under his remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion he has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29679/11]

As the Deputy will be aware, under the Public Service Agreement 2010-2014, detailed Implementation Plans have been developed across each sector of the public service to underpin the change and reform process envisaged by the Agreement. The Implementation Plans were first developed in October 2010 and subsequently revised in January 2011.

I should say that since the establishment of my Department on 2nd June 2011, my Department has prepared a new Public Service Agreement Implementation Plan, which it is in the process of forwarding to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. This Implementation Plan reflects the actions and commitments made by the former Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, and the Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs in their Implementation Plans in respect of the functions that transferred to my Department, as well as progress to date in implementing these. It also reflects new commitments and actions supportive of the change and reform process.

In relation to the bodies funded from my Department's Vote Group, the Deputy will be aware that these bodies were required to prepare their first detailed reports on the progress being made in implementing their Implementation Plans last May and this formed part of the first annual review of the Agreement undertaken by the Implementation Body. The second phase of progress reporting on the Agreement is underway at present and 6 monthly reports for these bodies and agencies are being compiled with a view to submitting updated progress reports to the Implementation Body during October. These sectoral reports will be examined by the Body and published on its website www.implementationbody.gov.ie.

The Deputy will appreciate that my colleagues, the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, report directly to the EU and IMF on relevant matters regarding the Public Service Agreement.

Irish Language

Nicky McFadden

Question:

281 Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will commit to the future funding of Cumann na bhFiann Irish language youth service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29733/11]

As the Deputy will be aware, Foras na Gaeilge is an agency of the North South Language Body, An Foras Teanga, which is jointly funded by my Department and by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure in Northern Ireland. Decisions regarding An Foras Teanga are made by both Sponsor Departments under the auspices of the North South Ministerial Council (NSMC).

Foras na Gaeilge currently provides core funding to 19 Irish language organisations, including Cumann na bhFiann. Following an external review completed on behalf of Foras na Gaeilge, the NSMC agreed that the core funding arrangements be reconfigured to ensure a more streamlined and cost effective approach. The reconfiguration consists of moving from core funding for 19 organisations to a competitive funding model based on a portfolio of schemes requiring the delivery of various strategic priorities.

At its meeting on 12 October 2011, the NSMC noted the progress made to date by Foras na Gaeilge with regard to the preparation of a portfolio of draft schemes for the new competitive funding model which has the objective of achieving significant benefits in relation to value for money and the effective delivery of Foras na Gaeilge's statutory obligations.

Having considered this progress, the NSMC requested that Foras na Gaeilge undertake a number of steps in the review process as follows:

enter into a twelve week consultation period about the portfolio of draft schemes, particularly with the core-funded bodies;

ensure that relevant statutory bodies are given the opportunity to consider the impact of the draft schemes on their areas of operation;

amend the portfolio of draft schemes as necessary and appropriate, having regard to the extended consultation process;

prepare a detailed business case, if necessary with independent assistance, in support of the portfolio of draft schemes;

prepare a revised project plan, in conjunction with the Sponsor Departments, that will have due regard to the completion of the review process as a matter of urgency; and

provide a further progress report at the next NSMC sectoral meeting in language format in February 2012.

It should also be noted that, pending the introduction of the schemes, it has been agreed by the NSMC that interim core funding will continue to be provided to the 19 Irish language organisations to 30 June 2012.

Marine Archaeological Heritage

John Lyons

Question:

282 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his proposals to excavate the remains of a vessel (details supplied); when this excavation is to occur, if it is to be wholly funded from the Exchequer; if so, the amount that it will cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29735/11]

The presence of the shipwreck referred to by the Deputy was notified to my Department in 2010 by a local dive team. Following preliminary investigation, my Department concluded that the surviving structure and the finds retrieved from the site pointed to the likelihood of the wreck being of Spanish origin dating from the sixteenth century. This also coincided with existing records of at least two Spanish Armada wrecks having foundered in the area.

Because the wreck is in shallow water, close to shore and vulnerable to interference, following consultation with the National Museum, I approved funding of €60,000 to allow my Department to retrieve any recoverable artefacts and to examine and record the wreck structure in detail. Excavation commenced in August of this year and over a three week period, with the assistance of the Geological Survey of Ireland which provided a dive platform, approximately half the interior of the site was excavated. Finds included pottery, weaponry and personal effects that reinforce the initial conclusion that the wreck is from the Spanish Armada period. The National Museum of Ireland is conserving these artefacts, which I expect will be put on display either in the National Museum itself or in a designated local facility.

Subject to availability of funding, I hope that the excavation can be completed in 2012 and that the wreck site can be stabilised to provide access to interested divers under licence from my Department.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

283 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29774/11]

I am advised that the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State Agencies under the aegis of my Department were capped at €35,000 per year would be in the order of €792,000 per annum.

Arts Funding

Sandra McLellan

Question:

284 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht how the shortfall of €1 million on the Dublin Contemporary exhibition can be justified in this current economic climate; if the Comptroller and Auditor General has examined the funding arrangements and contracts; and the programmes that will be curtailed to fund the shortfall. [29875/11]

As the Deputy is aware, Dublin Contemporary 2011 (DC2011) is the largest contemporary visual art event of its kind and scale ever held in Ireland. The DC2011 project showcases excellence in Irish and international contemporary art, affording Ireland with a position as a core essential viewing platform in the arts calendar alongside the major contemporary art platforms internationally. DC2011 previewed on 5 September and is due to run until 31 October 2011. The project has been delivered on time and within budget, utilising accepted good industry practice in operational and financial management. Once final costs, revenues and incomes are determined and audited, the full Exchequer contribution to the programming costs will be finalised.

National Monuments

John Deasy

Question:

285 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if financial assistance is available for the erection of memorials commemorating persons who died in the first and second world wars; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29959/11]

There is no general scheme of financial support for the erection of memorials. In the context of the decade of centenaries, and in consultation with other Departments and agencies, I will consider an appropriate reflection of World War I in the commemorative programme.

An Ghaeilge

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

286 D’fhiafraigh Éamon Ó Cuív den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta an dtacaíonn sé le moltaí ó Fhoras na Gaeilge atá sa tSamhail Nua Mhaoinithe, moltaí a dhéanann neamhaird iomlán ar an saineolas, seantaithí agus bonneagar atá forbartha ag na heagraíochtaí Gaeilge le níos mó na 100 bliain anuas; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [30045/11]

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

287 D’fhiafraigh Éamon Ó Cuív den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil sé ar an eolas faoin dréachtmholadh sa tSamhail Nua Mhaoinithe a d’fhoilsigh Foras na Gaeilge ar a shuíomh gréasáin ar an 3 Deireadh Fómhair a chuireann iachall ar na heagraíochtaí a n-éiríonn leo scéimeanna a bhaint amach i Samhail Nua Mhaoinithe Fhoras na Gaeilge scaoileadh lena bhfoirne reatha, iomarcaíocht a íoc leo agus iad a athfhostú, má éiríonn leo sna hagallaimh, ar théarmaí agus ar choinníollacha níos lú fabhar ná mar atá acu faoi láthair; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [30046/11]

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

288 D’fhiafraigh Éamon Ó Cuív den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil sé ar an eolas nach luaitear comórtas Ghlór na nGael, féile idirnáisiúnta Sheachtain na Gaeilge, clubanna náisiúnta Chumann na bhFiann, craobhacha agus coistí Chonradh na Gaeilge agus Comhluadar agus a lán eile a bhaineann le bonneagar phobal na Gaeilge sa tSamhail Nua Mhaoinithe atá curtha le chéile ag Foras na Gaeilge; agus an dtacaíonn sé le Foras na Gaeilge ag déanamh neamhaird iomlán ar an obair seo agus eile; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [30047/11]

Tógfaidh mé Ceisteanna Uimhreacha 286, 287 agus 288 le chéile.

Ag cruinniú den Chomhairle Aireachta Thuaidh Theas ar 12 Deireadh Fómhair, nótáladh an dul chun cinn atá déanta ag Foras na Gaeilge go dtí seo i ndáil le punann dréacht-scéimeanna a ullmhú don tsamhail mhaoinithe iomaíoch nua, a bhfuil sé mar sprioc aici tairbhí suntasacha luach ar airgead a bhaint amach agus dualgais reachtúla Fhoras na Gaeilge a chomhlíonadh go héifeachtach.

Iarradh ar Fhoras na Gaeilge roinnt céimeanna a thógáil chun an próiseas athbhreithnithe a thabhairt chun cinn, eadhon:

tréimhse bhreise chomhairliúcháin 12 seachtain a chur ar fáil i ndáil le punann na ndréacht-scéimeanna, go háirithe leis na heagraíochtaí bunmhaoinithe;

a chinntiú go dtabharfar deis do chomhlachtaí reachtúla bainteacha an tionchar a bheidh ag na dréacht-scéimeanna ar a réimsí feidhmiúcháin a bhreithniú;

an punann dréacht-scéimeanna a leasú de réir mar is gá agus mar is cuí, ag féachaint don phróiseas comhairliúcháin leathnaithe;

cás gnó mionsonraithe a ullmhú, le cúnamh neamhspleách más gá, chun tacú le punann na ndréacht-scéimeanna;

plean tionscadail athbhreithnithe a ullmhú, i gcomhar leis na Ranna Urraíochta, a thabharfaidh aird mar is cuí ar chur i gcrích an phróisis athbhreithnithe mar bheart práinne; agus

tuarascáil eile ar an dul chun cinn a sholáthar don chéad chruinniú eile den Chomhairle Aireachta Thuaidh Theas i mí Feabhra seo chugainn.

I bhfianaise na gcinntí sin, tuigfidh an Teachta nach mbeadh sé cuí domsa a bheith ag tabhairt mo bhreithiúnais maidir leis an samhail mhaoinithe nua i láthair na huaire.

Heritage Sites

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

289 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which heritage buildings and sites throughout the country have been identified and protected and are accessible for tourism and educational purposes; if there are specific restrictions in respect of any particular sites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30135/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

290 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent, if any, to which he has in mind a programme to promote this country’s heritage sites and buildings internationally with a view to achieving economic benefit therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30136/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

296 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which he has identified or located endangered heritage sites throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30143/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 289, 290 and 296 together.

Under the provisions of Part IV (Architectural Heritage) of the Planning and Development Act 2000, each planning authority is required to include in its development plan a Record of Protected Structures. The making of an addition to, or deletion from, a Record of Protected Structures is a reserved function of the planning authorities. Section 53 of this Act also enables me, as Minister, to make recommendations to a planning authority concerning the inclusion of specific structures in the Record of Protected Structures and a planning authority must have regard to any such recommendations.

On the basis of information submitted by the planning authorities to my Department, there were 38,475 properties on the Record of Protected Structures of 88 planning authorities in 2010. Under the provisions of these Acts, inclusion in the Record of Protected Structures places a duty of care on the owners and occupiers of protected structures and also gives planning authorities powers to deal with development proposals affecting them and to seek to safeguard their future.

There are 2,908 monuments recorded in the Register of Historic Monuments and there are approximately 120,000 further monuments recorded in the Record of Monuments and Places and these are protected under the National Monuments Acts. Both the Record and the Register are maintained by my Department. 757 national monument sites are in the ownership or guardianship of the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. The number of individual monuments on these sites would be greater, since some contain more than one monument. The day-to-day operation of national monuments in State care is a matter for the Office of Public Works but, in general, monument sites owned by the Minister are publicly accessible, with 69 having visitor services provided by the Office of Public Works.

Sites designated by my Department for their natural heritage interest include 423 Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), 150 Special Protection Areas (SPAs), 155 Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs), 7 Refuges for Fauna, 78 Nature Reserves and 6 National Parks. Detailed information on these sites, including information on the nature conservation associated with each, is available on a county basis on the National Parks and Wildlife Service website at www.npws.ie.

Access to and use of protected structures and heritage sites are related in many cases to the nature of ownership and the decisions of the owners and occupiers as regards use.

In terms of heritage sites which may be endangered, it should be noted that the various designations set out above have been put in place to assist in the protection of these sites from potential threats, the extent of which may vary widely depending on a wide range of factors.

The Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, and the relevant agencies under its remit, have responsibility for the promotion of Ireland generally as an attractive visitor location. Heritage sites, including national parks and national monuments, feature strongly in much of this promotion. In addition, my Department through, for example, the provision of important heritage inventories, the funding for the conservation and presentation of the built heritage, and through support for the Heritage Council, assists in promoting greater appreciation and understanding of Ireland's heritage as a valuable amenity for residents and visitors alike.

Arts Policy

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

291 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the degree to which he expects to be in a position to support the arts directly or through bodies under his aegis in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30138/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

293 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which he hopes to retain or provide incentives to encourage the arts at local, regional and national level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30140/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

298 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent to which he has received submissions for financial support directly or through the Arts Council for theatrical productions throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30145/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

299 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the steps he has taken or proposes to take to maximise and promote the arts as a means of generating economic and social benefits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30146/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 291, 293, 298 and 299 together.

The Government's policy on the arts is to promote and strengthen the arts in all its forms, to increase access to and participation in the arts, and to make the arts an integral and valued part of our national life. I am continuing to work towards this goal with my Department and the agencies within its remit and I remain committed to securing the best possible level of funding for the arts sector.

As the Deputy will be aware, primary responsibility for the promotion of the arts at all levels throughout the country is devolved to the Arts Council. The Council is funded by my Department and is statutorily independent in its day to day operations, including funding decisions. The allocation to the Arts Council for 2011 is €65.127m. With regard to funding submissions for theatrical productions, the Deputy will appreciate that any such submissions would be for independent assessment and decision by the Arts Council. Any such potential applicants approaching my Department would be directed to the Arts Council as a matter of course.

The State appreciates and values the contribution the arts sector makes to the internationally renowned artistic reputation of this country. Within the current economic constraints, that investment in the arts, culture and creative sectors is more important than ever, having regard to the employment intensity of the sector. In the context of the 2012 Estimates, I will, of course, be endeavouring to maximise continuing Government support for the arts.

Question No. 292 answered with Question No. 55.
Question No. 293 answered with Question No. 291.
Question No. 294 answered with Question No. 61.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

295 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the degree to which he has promoted the national identity through arts and heritage on a monthly basis over the past year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30142/11]

One of this Government's top priorities from its first day in office has been the promotion of the national identity abroad through arts, culture and heritage. This year in particular, Culture Ireland is spearheading Imagine Ireland, a special initiative to promote Irish arts in America, comprising some 1,200 Irish artists in more than 500 events across more than 40 US States.

Culture Ireland promotes our identity by mounting showcases and promotional missions at key international festivals and arts markets through the year and by operating a quarterly funding scheme for Irish arts events and projects abroad. It manages strategic initiatives in response to Government priorities, adding value to Presidential and Government Visits and St Patrick's Day initiatives and coordinating with other State Agencies on cross-promotion of arts events abroad. It also partners with resource organisations such as the Irish Film Institute and Ireland Literature Exchange to deliver targeted global promotion for each art form.

Since my appointment as Minister, in addition to Imagine Ireland, Culture Ireland's key showcases and promotions have included: in March, Irish music at South by Southwest Festival, Austin, Texas; in May, Irish dance at the Dublin Dance Festival and Irish film at the Cannes Festival; in August, the Venice Architecture Biennale and Irish theatre, dance, music and literature at the Edinburgh Festivals; and this month, Irish theatre at the Dublin Theatre Festival, Irish literature at Frankfurt Book Fair and Irish traditional music at Womex World Music Expo in Copenhagen.

Question No. 296 answered with Question No. 289.

Heritage Sites

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

297 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the extent, if any, to which he has monitored an increase in the number of visitors at the most prominent heritage sites throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30144/11]

There are indications that visitor numbers to National Parks did increase over the busy summer season this year in comparison with the same period last year. No final figures in this regard have been compiled by my Department. It should be noted that the management of the State's built heritage properties is a matter for the Office of Public Works.

Questions Nos. 298 and 299 answered with Question No. 291.

Book of Kells

Sandra McLellan

Question:

300 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his views on the possible relocation of the Book of Kells from Trinity College, Dublin, to Kells, County Meath; the contacts he has had with Trinity College regarding this proposition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29904/11]

I have no statutory function in this matter and no contacts have been made by me in that regard.

Question No. 301 answered with Question No. 58.

Meitheal Forbartha na Gaeltachta

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

302 D’fhiafraigh Peadar Tóibín den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil sé i gceist aige, i gcomhairle an Roinn Comhshaoil, Pobail agus Rialtais Áitiúil, fiosrúchán a dhéanamh agus tuairisc iomlán a thabhairt maidir leis na deacrachtaí atá ag an gcomhlacht MFG [30175/11]

Mar a thuigeann an Teachta, eascraíonn na deacrachtaí atá luaite aige as iniúchadh a rinneadh ar MFG ag Pobal, comhlacht a thagann faoi chúram na Roinne Comhshaoil, Pobail agus Rialtais Áitiúil. Tuigtear dom go bhfuil an Roinn sin agus Pobal ag scrúdú meicníochtaí a chinnteodh go leanfaí ag seachadadh na seirbhísí a bhíodh á soláthar ag MFG sa Ghaeltacht. Ní gá dom a rá go bhfuil súil agam go mbeifear in ann teacht ar réiteach den chineál sin chomh luath agus is féidir.

Questions No. 303 and 304 answered with Question No. 48.

Raidió na Gaeltachta

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

305 D’fhiafraigh Peadar Tóibín den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta cén todhchaí atá i ndán do sheirbhísí Raidió na Gaeltachta i gContae Mhaigh Eo [30178/11]

Is craoltóir neamhspleách seirbhíse poiblí é RTÉ, a bhfuil a shainchúraimí agus a chuid dualgas leagtha síos san Acht Craolacháin 2009, agus níl aon fheidhm reachtúil agamsa mar Aire i ndáil le cúrsaí oibríochtúla RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta.

Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

306 D’fhiafraigh Peadar Tóibín den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta cén dul chun chinn atá déanta aige ar mholtaí an Choimisinéara Teanga a chur i bhfeidhm [30179/11]

Glacaim leis go bhfuil an Teachta ag tagairt do na moltaí a rinne an Coimisinéir Teanga i dtuairisc a d'fhoilsigh sé níos luaithe i mbliana i ndáil leis an athbhreithniú atá beartaithe ar Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003. Tá ullmhúcháin sa treis ag mo Roinn faoi láthair chun tús a chur leis an athbhreithniú ar an Acht i gcomhréir leis an ngealltanas atá sonraithe i gClár an Rialtais. Beidh próiseas comhairlúcháin le páirtithe leasmhara mar chuid den athbhreithniú agus, sa chomhthéacs seo, is cinnte go dtógfar san áireamh na moltaí maidir leis an Acht Teanga atá foilsithe ag an gCoimisinéir Teanga. Tá súil agam fógra a dhéanamh go han-luath maidir le tús a chur leis an athbhreithniú ar Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla.

Scéim Labhairt na Gaeilge

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

307 D’fhiafraigh Peadar Tóibín den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta cén dul chun chinn atá déanta aige ar scéim nua a chur i bhfeidhm in ionad scéim labhairt na Gaeilge [30180/11]

Faoi mar a thug mé le fios i bhfreagraí ar Cheisteanna faoin ábhar céanna ar 22 Meitheamh agus ar 21 Iúil 2011, tá sé i gceist ag mo Roinnse córas nua tacaíochta a thionscnamh in áit Scéim Labhairt na Gaeilge. Faoin scéim nua atá beartaithe, ba mhaith le mo Roinn tacaíocht níos éifeachtaí a thabhairt do ghlúinte tuismitheoirí Gaeltachta chun cabhrú leo a gcuid páistí a thógáil trí mheán na Gaeilge. Ar ndóigh, bheadh an scéim úr fite fuaite go dlúth le haidhmeanna na Straitéise 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge 2010-2030. Tá oifigigh ó mo Roinn i dteagmháil leis an Roinn Caiteachais Phoiblí agus Athchóirithe i leith na scéime úire agus tá súil agam go mbeifear in ann gníomhú ar an ábhar seo chomh luath is a bheidh na cainteanna sin thart.

Deontais Ealaíona

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

308 D’fhiafraigh Peadar Tóibín den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta cén todhchaí atá i ndán d’Ealaíon na Gaeltachta; agus an bhfuil maoiniú deimhnithe le haghaidh na bliana seo [30181/11]

Is fochuideachta de chuid Údarás na Gaeltachta é Ealaín (na Gaeltachta) Teo. a chuireann forbairt na n-ealaíon comhaimseartha agus traidisiúnta chun cinn i gceantair Ghaeltachta. Is é Údarás na Gaeltachta agus an Chomhairle Ealaíon a dhéanann an fhochuideachta a chómhaoiniú. Tuigim ó Údarás na Gaeltachta go bhfuil maoiniú iomlán de €820,000 curtha ar fáil d'Ealaín (na Gaeltachta) Teo. don bhliain 2011 ar bhunús 50/50 ón Údarás agus ón gComhairle Ealaíon. Beidh maoiniú na fochuideachta in 2012 ag brath ar an gciste iomlán a bheidh ar fáil don Údarás agus ar na socruithe cómhaoinithe a aontófar leis an gComhairle Ealaíon.

Forbairt Pobail

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

309 D’fhiafraigh Peadar Tóibín den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta cén todhchaí atá i ndán do na comharchumainn Ghaeltachta; agus an bhfuil maoiniú deimhnithe le haghaidh na bliana seo [30182/11]

Tuigim óÚdarás na Gaeltachta go bhfuil ciste de €1.86m ar fáil i mbliana chun deontais reachtála a íoc le tuairim is 30 comharchumann agus eagraíocht pobail atá ag feidhmiú sa Ghaeltacht. Beidh cinntí maidir le maoiniú na n-eagraíochtaí seo in 2012 ag brath ar an soláthar airgid a bheidh ar fáil don Údarás agus ar na tosaíochtaí straitéiseacha a mbeidh an soláthar sin dírithe orthu. Ní miste a lua fosta go n-aithnítear sa Straitéis 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge 2010-2030 an tábhacht a bhaineann le rannpháirtíocht agus comhoibriú an phobail maidir le forbairt na pleanála teanga sa Ghaeltacht. Sa chomhthéacs seo, is léir go bhféadfadh ról dearfach a bheith ag na comharchumainn agus ag na heagraíochtaí pobail ag tacú le bearta ábhartha na Straitéise sa réimse pleanála teanga, ach iad a bheith ullmhaithe chuige sin.

An Cruinniú Aireachta Thuaidh Theas

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

310 D’fhiafraigh Peadar Tóibín den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil tuairisc aige ar an gCruinniú Aireachta Thuaidh/Theas [30184/11]

D'fhreastail mé féin agus an tAire Stáit, Donnchadh Mac Fhionnlaoich T.D., ar dhá chruinniú den Chomhairle Aireachta Thuaidh Theas in Ard Mhacha ar 12 Deireadh Fómhair 2011. Is éard a bhí i gceist ná an cheathrú cruinniú rannach déag d'Uiscebhealaí Éireann agus an tríú cruinniú rannach déag d'Fhoras Teanga na Comhairle Aireachta Thuaidh Theas. Bhí an tAire Cultúir, Ealaíon agus Fóillíochta, Carál Ní Chuilín MLA, agus Aire Sóisearach in Oifig an Chéad-Aire agus an LeasChéad-Aire, Jonathan Bell MLA, i láthair ag an gcruinniú thar ceann Fheidhmeannas Thuaisceart Éireann. Foilsíonn an Chomhairle Aireachta Thuaidh Theas comhráitis i ndiaidh na gcruinnithe seo ar a suíomh gréasáin. Is féidir na comhráitis ábhartha a fháil ag: http://www.northsouthministerialcouncil.org/index/publications/joint-communiques/sectoral-jc.htm.

Maoiniú Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

311 D’fhiafraigh Peadar Tóibín den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta cén todhchaí atá i ndán d’Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge; agus an bhfuil maoiniú deimhnithe le haghaidh na mblianta romhainn [30185/11]

I dtosach báire, ba mhaith liom a rá go luíonn an phríomhfhreagracht maidir Ie maoiniú Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge ar Ollscoil na hÉireann Gaillimh, i gcomhar leis an Údarás um Ard-Oideachas agus an Roinn Oideachais agus Scileanna. É sin ráite, tagann aidhmeanna, straitéis, gníomhaíochtaí agus cur chuige Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge go dlúth le sainchuspóirí mo Roinne sa Ghaeltacht. Sa chomhthéacs sin, bhí mo Roinn sásta ról tánaisteach a imirt chomh fada is a bhain sé le maoiniú na n-ionad Gaeltachta atá ag an Acadamh. Aithníonn mo Roinn an ról a d'fhéadfadh a bheith ag Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge i gcur i bhfeidhm na Straitéise 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge 2010-2030 sa Ghaeltacht agus taobh amuigh den Ghaeltacht.

Mar is eol don Teachta, tá iniúchadh á dhéanamh, faoi stiúir na Roinne Caiteachais Phoiblí agus Athchóirithe, ar chaiteachas an Stáit faoin Athbhreithniú Cuimsitheach Caiteachais. Is sa chomhthéacs sin agus i gcomhthéacs an phróisis meastachán a dhéanfar cinntí sonracha maidir leis an mbealach is fearr le freastal a dhéanamh ar na héilimh éagsúla a bheidh ar mo Roinn, lena n-áirítear aon éileamh ón Acadamh don tréimhse atá romhainn.

Question No. 312 answered with Question No. 48.

Appointments to State Boards

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

313 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the saving to the State if all State agency board members’ annual payments were rescinded and instead board membership was awarded without remuneration. [30252/11]

While the Deputy's Question is hypothetical, I can say that I am advised that the total annual cost of fees — where such are accepted — to board members of State agencies funded from my Department's Vote Group is estimated to be of the order of €838,000.

Broadcasting Services

Kevin Humphreys

Question:

314 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on making it mandatory for subtitles to be available on news and current affairs television programs broadcast by television channels licensed by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland for those who are deaf, in view of the fact that these were not available during a recent presidential debate of popular interest; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29500/11]

The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) has statutory responsibility for this matter. Under Section 43 (1)(c)(i) of the Broadcasting Act 2009, the Authority must prepare and, from time to time, revise rules with respect to the specific steps each broadcaster is required to take to promote the understanding and enjoyment by those who are deaf or have a hearing impairment of programmes transmitted on any broadcast service provided by the broadcaster. Information on such issues is obtainable from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland and from their website www.bai.ie.

Telecommunications Services

Dominic Hannigan

Question:

315 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the new rules governing electronic communication between politicians and members of the public; the means by which it is acceptable to ask members of the public to subscribe to communication from their public representative; if email address that were used for communication purposes before the new rules were enacted are still allowed to be used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29522/11]

The rules to which the Deputy refers are the European Communities (Electronic Communications Networks and Services) Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2011, which I signed into law on 1 July 2011. These Regulations transpose the requirements of EU Directive 2002/58/EC concerning the processing of personal data and the protection of privacy in the electronic communications sector (ePrivacy Directive) as amended by the EU Directive 2009/136/EC (Citizens' Rights Directive).

Regulation 13 of the new Regulations seeks to protect individuals from receiving unsolicited communications for the purposes of direct marketing. This Regulation covers the making of unsolicited phone calls and the sending of unsolicited fax messages, email and SMS (text messages) for direct marketing purposes and gives individuals the right to prevent organisations from using electronic measures to contact them in order to sell a product or service. The requirement of this Regulation extends to all forms of marketing carried out by means of publicly available electronic communications services, including political canvassing.

Responsibility for enforcement of these Regulations falls to the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner and in this regard I would refer the Deputy to that Office for clarification on the means by which it is acceptable to ask members of the public to subscribe to communications from political representatives. The Deputy may be aware that in order to clarify the position in relation to the requirements of the Regulations I arranged for the Data Protection Commissioner to give a presentation to members of the Oireachtas. This presentation took place on 21 September 2011.

I understand that it would be acceptable to use an email address used for communication purposes before the new rules were enacted if the owner of the email address had consented to such use. Such communication would, of course, remain subject to the new rules as provided for in the Regulations.

Energy Prices

Dominic Hannigan

Question:

316 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the stage at which negotiations for the price of the renewable energy feed-in tariff are at; the organisations that have made submissions to his Department on the pricing structure; when he expects an announcement to be made on the revised price; the number of energy projects currently being paid under the renewable energy feed-in tariff; the amount that each project is receiving; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29555/11]

There are two separate State Aid clearance processes under way with the European Commission in respect of the extension of the REFIT Scheme for the renewable energy technologies of onshore wind, landfill gas and hydro technologies and a new REFIT Scheme covering biomass technology categories.

I am advised that Commission decisions should be forthcoming in the coming weeks. On receipt of the Commission's decisions I will be seeking the Governments early approval to proceed to open the Schemes to applications.

My Department has maintained ongoing dialogue with the renewable energy sections in relation to the REFIT proposals and received correspondence from a number of organisations in that context.

The total Public Service Obligation for the 2011/2012 period is €92.12 million of which €35.78 million relates to 110 REFIT projects.

Broadcasting Services

Noel Harrington

Question:

317 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if persons who are technically unable to view any Irish stations receive an exemption from paying their television licence, in view of the fact that it is not used for that purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29580/11]

The legislation which takes effect in relation to the requirement to hold a television licence is provided for in Section 140 of the Broadcasting Act 2009 which defines a television set as "any electronic apparatus capable of receiving and exhibiting television broadcasting services broadcast for general reception (whether or not its use for that purpose is dependent on the use of anything else in conjunction with it) and any software or assembly comprising such apparatus and other apparatus".

In effect, if you own a television set in Ireland, you must have a current television licence for that set. That said, if specific persons are unable to view Irish television stations, there may be a problem with the reception of the signal in these circumstances. Accordingly, this is a technical issue which the parties affected may seek to address with RTÉ Networks Limited who are charged with addressing these signal reception issues and I, as Minister have no function in this area.

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

318 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the Croke Park agreement; if he has received implementation plans for this agreement from his Department and each State agency under his remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion he has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29681/11]

Under the Public Service Agreement 2010-2014, detailed action plans have been developed by each State agency under the remit of my Department to underpin the change and reform process envisaged by the Agreement. The Action Plans were first developed in October 2010 and subsequently revised in January 2011.

Each agency was required to prepare their first detailed report on the progress being made in implementing their Action Plans last May and this formed part of the first annual review of the Agreement undertaken by the Implementation Body.

The second phase of progress reporting on the Agreement is underway at present. Sectors are due to submit updated progress reports to the Implementation Body during October. These reports will be examined by the Body and published on its website (www.implementationbody.gov.ie).

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

319 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29776/11]

I wish to advise the Deputy that the day to day running of the State agencies under my aegis is a matter for them and you should contact them directly with regard to the information sought.

Broadcasting Services

Martin Ferris

Question:

320 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the procedures in place for members of the public to make complaints regarding television licence inspectors. [29962/11]

An Post acts on behalf of my Department as agent for the collection of the Television Licence fee under Section 145 of the Broadcasting Act 2009. In accordance with An Post's procedures, if a member of the public wishes to make a complaint in relation to an An Post TV Licence Inspector, the member of the public is advised, in the first instance, to contact their local An Post TV Licence Records Office. A list of contact details for local TV Licence Records Offices is available on www.anpost.ie. All such complaints received in any of these offices are forwarded for the attention of the An Post Field Sales Manager. I am assured by An Post that the Field Sales Manager is obliged to follow up on all complaints, either by way of a phone call or in writing, depending on how the complaint is received. All complaints will be investigated with the TV Licence Inspector in question and appropriate action taken where necessary. An Post has also confirmed that, depending on the nature of the complaint, the matter may be escalated to the An Post Manager of TV Licence Services, where appropriate.

Energy Prices

Brendan Ryan

Question:

321 Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding Ireland’s application for REFIT 2 and REFIT 3; when they are likely to be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30017/11]

There are separate State Aid clearance processes under way with the European Commission in respect of the extension of the REFIT Scheme for the renewable energy technologies of onshore wind, landfill gas and hydro technologies and a new REFIT Scheme covering biomass technology categories.

The Commission is currently completing assessments of the applications and I am advised that decisions should be forthcoming in the coming weeks.

On receipt of the Commission's decisions I will be seeking the Government's approval to proceed to open the Schemes to applications.

Departmental Expenditure

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

322 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the saving to the State if all State agency board members’ annual payments were rescinded and instead board membership was awarded without remuneration. [30253/11]

I can inform the Deputy that there are 18 State bodies under the aegis of my Department. Of these, 15 bodies have Boards that are currently being paid fees determined by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, one Board receives no fees and two bodies do not have a Board. The following table details the position regarding the payment of board fees to Chairpersons and Directors of both the commercial and non-commercial bodies under the aegis, if all positions were filled. However, at any given time, not all positions on all boards will be filled.

Body

Number of Positions

Board Fees Applicable

Total Fees Applicable to Board based on number of positions

Broadcasting Authority of Ireland

9

Chair: €8,978Director: €5,985

€56,858

RTÉ

12

Chair: €31,500Director: €15,750

€204,750

TG4

12

Chair: €21,600Director: €12,600

€160,200

An Post

15

Chair: €31,500Director: €15,750

€252,000

Digital Hub Development Agency1

14

Chair: €11,970Director: €7,695

€112,005

Bord Gáis Éireann

9

Chair: €31,500Director: €15,750

€157,500

Bord na Móna

12

Chair: €21,600Director: €12,600

€160,200

EirGrid

10

Chair: €21,600Director: €12,600

€135,000

ESB

12

Chair: €31,500Director: €15,750

€204,750

Irish National Petroleum Corporation2

5

Chair: €20,520Director: €11,970

€56,430

National Oil Reserves Agency2

6

Chair: €8,978Director: €5,985

€26,933

Sustainable Energy Authority Of Ireland2

12

Chair: €11,970Director: €7,695

€88,920

Inland Fisheries Ireland3

9

0

0

Loughs Agency4

12

Chair: €11,970Vice Chair: €9,830Director: €7,695

€49,375

Ordnance Survey Ireland

10

Chair: €11,970Director: €7,695

€81,225

Total

€1,746,146

The Mining Board

3

Fees apply to Chair only who is not in receipt of an annual fee, the following fees only apply whenever the Board sits: Fees per day for public and private sittings: €582.97 Fee per full day for any necessary attendance (other than sittings) in discharge of the Board’s business: €200.93

1. A strategic review of the DHDA is currently being undertaken by my Department. It is envisaged that the Review Process should be completed later this year. It will, inter alia, set out recommendations for the future of the Digital Hub and on the funding model. Following the review I will be in a better position to look at existing Board vacancies (which have remained unfilled since 2009) in the context of the DHDA at that time.

2. Public Servant serving as board member and is therefore not paid additional remuneration for such duties without the prior sanction of Dept of Public Expenditure and Reform. None of the public servants currently serving on the relevant boards are in receipt of a director's fee. There are 2 public servants on the board of NORA.

3. The Board members of Inland Fisheries Ireland are not currently in receipt of fees with effect from 1st July 2010.

4. The Board of the Loughs Agency comprises 12 members and the Irish Exchequer pay half of the cost of their fees. Each member receives a stipend of €7,695 (£5,235) per annum, the vice chair receives €9,830 (£6,690) and the Chair €11,970 (£8,140).

Departmental Funding

Jim Daly

Question:

323 Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the negative effects that the freeze on Leader funding in November 2010 is having on the development and expansion of small food producers across the west Cork area; if he is considering any alternative scheme to assist persons who are considering developing a food-related project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29931/11]

Jim Daly

Question:

350 Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the current status in relation to funding to local development partnerships after the freeze on Leader funding in November 2010; if his attention has been drawn to the effects of this lack of funding, particularly in relation to the growth and expansion of the small food producers market in the west Cork area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29930/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 323 and 350 together.

The Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 (RDP) is divided into 4 Axes. Axis 1 deals with competitiveness of the agricultural sector, Axis 2 aims to improve the countryside and environment and the objectives of Axis 3 are to support the diversification of the rural economy and improve the quality of life in rural areas. Axis 4 or the LEADER Axis provides support for the use of a "bottom up" approach to development which ensures that local people are involved in the decision making thereby facilitating sustainable development in a more inclusive way. In Ireland the LEADER approach is used to implement Axis 3 measures.

A significant number of projects funded under the previous LEADER+ programme (2000-2006) and under the Diversification and Business Creation measures of the current RDP involve support for enterprise initiatives that add value to agrifood products. Basic Agricultural products are listed in Annex 1 to the EC Treaty and are commonly called Annex 1 products. Under the main Rural Development Regulation 1698/2005 support/grant aid for adding value to Annex 1 products is facilitated under Axis 1 of the programme. At the start of this year Ireland was notified by the European Commission that support/grant aid for adding value to agrifood products is not eligible under Axis 3 but rather under Axis 1 as detailed in the regulation. As a result of this, grant aid under Axis 3 of the RDP for this type of activity is currently suspended.

A significant part of enterprise activity in rural areas focuses on food and food- related businesses and the continued provision of support for these businesses is critical as we look to ways to generate employment in rural Ireland. I am aware that the West Cork area has a particularly strong history of food related business and that the suspension of the support under Axis 3 has impacted on the area. My Department is aware of the seriousness of this issue and is continuing to work with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to seek a solution as soon as possible.

I am not in a position to make any decisions regarding additional funds for the types of project referred to at this time. Any such decision will be made in the context of the overall budgetary situation in due course.

Proposed Legislation

Seán Kenny

Question:

324 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on anti-social graffiti; the feasibility of the setting up of a licensing system for the purchase of spray paint in order to reduce the availability of it in order to reduce anti-social graffiti; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29490/11]

I am aware of the major blight on communities caused by graffiti. To this end and in order to support efforts to tackle the issue, I have made available funding of €1 million to local authorities under the anti-litter and anti graffiti grant scheme for 2011.

It is a matter for the relevant local authorities to apply for funding for suitable projects under the scheme. To be eligible, projects must heighten awareness and educate the public on the damaging effects that graffiti cause in a community.

I have no plans to introduce a licensing system for the purchase of spray paint to limit availability of the product.

Local Authority Funding

Joan Collins

Question:

325 Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that when Sligo County Council sought and received sanction from him for a term loan of €15 million in 2010 it stated in its application that the purpose to which the loan was to be applied was “to fund balances on our capital account that remain unfunded — Water Investment Projects awaiting Special Development Levies, Asset purchases completed in advance of Gateway funding and project balances, along with our Revenue Account Deficit”; if his further attention has been drawn to the fact that the loan was not in fact applied to the revenue account deficit of €7.5 million and the deficit was carried forward into the following year; his views on whether he was misled by Sligo County Council and if he finds such behaviour acceptable, in view of the fact that the council had a total closing overall deficit balance of €9,981,616 on 31 December 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29537/11]

It is a matter for each local authority, including Sligo County Council, to manage its own day-to-day finances in a prudent and sustainable manner. All local authorities are required under legislation to adopt a balanced budget. I am aware of the total closing overall deficit balance of Sligo County Council for the year ended 31 December 2010. I am also aware of the sanction provided on 19 July 2010 to Sligo County Council for a term loan of €15m.

My Department will meet shortly with the County Manager and the Head of Finance in Sligo County Council to discuss the application of the €15m loan funding and to further explore the financial position of the Council including the need to ensure that appropriate arrangements are in place to reduce the deficit over time.

Joan Collins

Question:

326 Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the funding he allocated for the regeneration of Cranmore estate, Sligo, between 2004 and 2011; the amount spent in each year on the regeneration programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29540/11]

Since 2006, my Department has recouped some €14.8 million to Sligo Borough Council in respect of the regeneration project for Sligo, which includes the Cranmore estate. Recoupments in 2006 and 2007 amounted to €1.376 million and €4.061 million respectively and these amounts were funded out of the Council's overall remedial works allocations for those years.

Details of the allocations made to Sligo Borough Council under my Department's national regeneration programme over the period 2008 to date, together with details of the amounts recouped, are set out in the following table:

Year

Allocations€000’s

Amounts Recouped€000’s

2008

€7,500

€5,158

2009

€4,500

€3,282

2010

€3,500

€0,488

2011 to date

€2,000

€0,459

Private Rented Accommodation

Dara Calleary

Question:

327 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if it is a prerequisite for each landlord to have up-to-date registration with the Private Residential Tenancies Board; and whose responsibility it is to enforce this registration. [29574/11]

The Residential Tenancies Act 2004 provides that every landlord of a dwelling to which the Act applies shall apply to the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) to register the tenancy of the dwelling.

It is a matter for the PRTB to enforce tenancies' registration requirements in accordance with the provisions of the Act, specifically sections 144 and 145 which provide for the issuing of notices to landlords and/or occupiers of the dwellings in question and the prosecution of offenders for non-compliance with the registration requirement. Under section 9 of the Act, a person guilty of an offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months or both.

Robert Dowds

Question:

328 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the course of action available to a private landlord under the circumstance in which the landlord has served a legal eviction notice on a tenant and the tenant refuses to leave when the notice has expired; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29576/11]

The Residential Tenancies Act 2004 regulates the tenant-landlord relationship in the private rented residential sector. The Act sets out the obligations of tenants and landlords in the sector and the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) is the independent statutory body charged with the administration of the Act and the enforcement of those obligations, as necessary.

The PRTB offers a dispute resolution service in relation to the majority of landlord and tenant disputes in the sector and parties to a dispute can apply for dispute resolution via either adjudication or mediation. Section 78(1)(j) of the Act provides that a landlord of a dwelling, who has registered the tenancy under Part 7 of the Act, may refer a complaint for resolution to the PRTB where there is an alleged failure by the tenant to offer up vacant possession of the dwelling on foot of receipt by him or her of a notice of termination validly served by the landlord.

Further information on the PRTB's dispute resolution services, including a downloadable dispute resolution application form, is available on its website at www.prtb.ie. The fee for dispute resolution is €25.00.

Harbours and Piers

Brendan Griffin

Question:

329 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding a project (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29585/11]

To the extent that my Department is involved with the project concerned, the necessary foreshore leases and licences were executed in December 2010.

Building Regulations

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

330 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to enure the safety of residents of Priory Hall estate in Donaghmede, Dublin 13, in view of the fact that the management company has informed residents that it cannot get insurance for the complex and that a company (details supplied) has refused to provide cover; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29588/11]

Following an application by Dublin City Council, a High Court Order was granted on 14 October 2011 for the evacuation of the development at Priory Hall on the grounds that the development is unsafe. I understand that at a further hearing on 17 October 2011 the developer has committed to carrying out a schedule of necessary remedial works in the coming weeks Dublin City Council has also made arrangements for the temporary accommodation of the affected residents I am satisfied that Dublin City Council is dealing proactively with this matter in line with the standard arrangements in place for the discharge of its statutory functions.

Waste Management

Dara Calleary

Question:

331 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans for the restructuring of the waste sector here. [29618/11]

Dara Calleary

Question:

332 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to introduce franchise bidding to the waste sector here; if his attention has been drawn to the implications such an approach will have on employment, on consumer choice and on costs to businesses and the consumers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29619/11]

Eric J. Byrne

Question:

340 Deputy Eric Byrne asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on whether, with the application of the €50 per tonne landfill levy being demanded from customers in the private domestic market irrespective of the number of bins left for collection, a charge per weight would be more appropriate for those who are dedicated to recycling; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29734/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 331, 332 and 340 together.

The Programme for Government contains a commitment to introduce competitive tendering for household waste collection, under which service providers will bid to provide waste collection services in a given area, for a given period of time and to a guaranteed level of service. A public consultation on the issues involved, designed to inform the policy development process, has recently concluded. The responses received are being examined and I intend to bring policy proposals to Government before the end of the year. Issues such as costs to households and businesses, consumer choice and employment impacts will be among the issues for consideration in this context.

The landfill levy is chargeable on waste presented for disposal at landfill facilities. The increase in the levy to €50 per tonne, which I recently introduced, is intended to send a strong price signal to the producers, collectors and managers of waste, to alter behaviour and to encourage a shift away from landfill to more sustainable management of waste. Further increases in the levy are also planned, to €65 per tonne in 2012 and €75 per tonne in 2013. I hope to see significantly improved levels of prevention, recovery, recycling and reuse of waste as a consequence of these increases.

As the waste collection market is currently structured, the pricing schemes used by private waste collectors are a matter for determination as between the service providers and consumers of the service, subject, of course, to a service provider's collection permit and other legal responsibilities being complied with. The relative merits of different pricing schemes, including schemes which include a pay-by-weight component, will also be among the issues considered during the Government's deliberations on the future approach to regulating household waste collection markets.

Social and Affordable Housing

Dara Murphy

Question:

333 Deputy Dara Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government how costs may be recovered with regard to a social housing scheme (details supplied) in County Cork, as the local authority has decided not to proceed with the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29649/11]

In March 2009, Cork City Council submitted an outline proposal to my Department to purchase a number of houses in a private residential development being progressed by the person referred to. My Department subsequently raised concerns with the City Council in relation to a number of issues including the design of the houses, the location of the site and the existing high concentration of social housing in the immediate area.

My Department understands the Council's proposal to acquire the properties was not progressed and that the development is currently unfinished and in a derelict state. The resolution of any outstanding issues in relation to the Council's dealings with the developer are entirely a matter for the two parties concerned. My Department has advised the Council to explore all opportunities to bring the matter to a satisfactory close as soon as possible.

Local Authority Housing

Simon Harris

Question:

334 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of persons in local authority housing in rent or mortgage arrears for 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and to date in 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29659/11]

I refer to the reply to Question No. 366 of 27 September 2011. My Department has since 2008 collected data on rent arrears, calculated by the total monetary amounts and not by individual persons or households, owing to local authorities and those data were set out in the above-mentioned reply.

My Department has recently commenced the collation of data from local authorities on the number of loans in arrears broken down by the length of time in arrears. The data to mid-2011 indicate that 6,197 such loans are in arrears of more than 90 days which represents 26.8% of the total number of loans.

The use of 90 days as a comparative metric in considering the level of arrears is consistent with the approach adopted by the Central Bank in compiling information in respect of private lenders' loans. The Central Bank's data show that 16.17% of mortgages in the private sector are now either in arrears for more than 90 days or have been restructured. It is to be expected that the rate of arrears among local authority mortgage holders would be higher than the rate of arrears generally given local authorities' position as lenders of last resort.

Public Sector Staff

Simon Harris

Question:

335 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on a derogation from the public service moratorium for a position (details supplied), in view of the fact that the failure to recruit for this position would necessitate the winding up of the organisation as it will have no staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29660/11]

The moratorium on recruitment and promotion in the public service was introduced in March 2009 following a Government decision to implement savings measures across the wider public service. The emergency measure was introduced as a response to the financial crisis facing the State.

The terms of the moratorium are quite explicit and provide that no public service post, however arising, may be filled by recruitment, promotion, or payment of an allowance for the performance of duties at a higher grade. When vacancies arise public bodies must reallocate or reorganise work or staff accordingly. Any exceptions to this principle, which will arise in very limited circumstances only, require prior sanction.

My Department received a delegated sanction from the Department of Finance in August 2009 for implementation of this general moratorium on the filling of public sector posts across all local authorities. This is on condition that the overall staffing levels in the sector are reduced in line with the Employment Control Framework.

Under section 159 of the Local Government Act 2001, each County and City Manager is responsible for staffing and organisational arrangements necessary for carrying out the functions of the local authorities for which he or she is responsible. In this regard, it is a matter for County and City Managers, in the first instance, to ensure that the reduction in staff numbers is managed so that the appropriate service level is maintained.

My Department works very closely with local authorities to ensure that critical posts are filled while overall numbers are reduced. All staffing sanction requests are examined on a case by case basis having due regard to the continued delivery of key services and the need to further reduce overall staffing levels and expenditure in the local authority sector.

Local authorities have been early movers in terms of staff reductions with over 6,900 whole time equivalent staff leaving the sector since June 2008. The reduction of staff in local authorities is a net figure as given the nature of the front line services provided such as fire and emergency services, road and water services, beach supervision in summer months and other temporary seasonal services, some sanctions for exceptions to the moratorium need to be, and are, regularly approved. In this regard my Department has processed some 2,264 such requests since 2009.

In considering sanction requests public safety, maintaining key front-line services and economic issues are given precedence as is the requirement to avoid increases in overall staffing levels. Contract posts are favoured as they allow flexibility in this most challenging period for Ireland's economy. In the very exceptional situation that a post is to be filled permanently all redeployment options must be fully exhausted before recruitment can be countenanced.

In relation to the particular post referred to in Question No. 335, it was considered, in the particular circumstances, that the creation of an additional permanent post was not justified. The Department advised the relevant Council that it would be more appropriate if the post was filled internally via redeployment or through the re-organisation or reallocation of work to meet requirements.

Local Authority Housing

Simon Harris

Question:

336 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of house repossessions from local authority borrowers in County Wicklow for each of the years 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and to date in 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29661/11]

Repossession remains extremely rare for local authority borrowers with only 128 repossessions across all local authority areas carried out in the period 2005-2010. During that period Wicklow County Council carried out only three repossessions. Two of these cases were voluntary surrenders in 2010. The other repossession took place in 2008. Clearly, where repossession does occur it is a last resort and my Department is aware that it generally involves those households in arrears who refuse to engage with the local authority lender.

Local Authority Expenditure

John McGuinness

Question:

337 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the value of the debt owed to central Government by each local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29695/11]

In 2011 local authorities have budgeted to spend some €7bn in total between current and capital programmes. The main sources of funding include current and capital income, grants and subsidies. In addition, limited debt finance is available to local authorities as necessary to finance their expenditure.

The information requested, which relates to debt owed to central government, is set out in the table and refers to loans advanced through the Local Loans Fund which is operated by the Office of Public Works under the aegis of the Minister for Finance. 2009 is the latest year for which audited information is available.

Carlow

1,189,347

Cavan

1,794,297

Clare

755,711

Cork

5,110,536

Donegal

1,052,156

Fingal

117,083

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown

82,921

Galway

1,058,825

Kerry

1,349,253

Kildare

117,589

Kilkenny

298,151

Laois

61,955

Leitrim

861,526

Limerick

418,640

Longford

762,001

Louth

2,262,160

Mayo

2,238,364

Meath

62,521

North Tipperary

416,262

Offaly

88,154

Roscommon

1,740,833

Sligo

16,620

South Dublin

248,449

South Tipperary

748,764

Waterford

129,646

Westmeath

884,269

Wexford

1,079,290

Wicklow

2,376,012

Subtotal

27,321,337

City Councils

Cork

847,552

Galway

213,162

Limerick

190,161

Waterford

65,743

Subtotal

1,316,618

Town & Borough Councils

Clonmel

294,287

Drogheda

685,499

Kilkenny

222,029

Sligo

94,020

Wexford

47,996

Arklow

79,631

Athlone

130,974

Ballina

107,465

Bray

205,262

Carrick on Suir

24,718

Dundalk

1,000,143

Dungarvan

54,774

Enniscorthy

4,978

Kells

64,509

Letterkenny

12,470

Tipperary

115,689

Tullamore

15,061

Wicklow

101,033

Sub Total

3,260,538

Total

31,898,493

Election Management System

Niall Collins

Question:

338 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when a person who has been denied a position as polling clerk for the forthcoming presidential election and referendum may appeal this decision of the local returning officer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29718/11]

The primary role of my Department in electoral matters is to provide an appropriate policy and legislative framework for a modern and efficient electoral system. Within that framework, local returning officers are responsible for all matters in connection with the actual conduct of elections and referenda, including the selection, appointment and training of polling station and count staff in accordance with the relevant provisions of electoral law.

To assist returning officers, my Department issues guidance to them in advance of each election and referendum. The guidance emphasises that the smooth conduct of polls is dependent on maintaining a cadre of sufficiently skilled and experienced people. Having regard to that overall objective, returning officers are advised to employ competent and efficient persons as polling staff and asked to give consideration, where possible, to employing suitable persons who are unemployed.

Water and Sewerage Schemes

Jim Daly

Question:

339 Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding the proposed upgrade of the Courtmacsherry sewage collection system, County Cork: if he will consider having a brief meeting with a small delegation so that they may impress their case upon him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29719/11]

The Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas Library, provides for the development of a comprehensive range of new water services infrastructure in County Cork. The Courtmacsherry/Timoleague Sewerage Scheme is included among the contracts to start during the life of the programme.

My Department approved a revised Preliminary Report for Phase 1 of this scheme in December 2010. Approval of the Preliminary Report allows the Council to advance the project. The next step for the Council is to procure consultants to undertake the preparation of contract documents for the scheme. I understand that the Council has commenced that process.

As this scheme is currently being dealt with by the local authority, it might be more beneficial for the delegation to seek a meeting in the first instance with Cork County Council.

Question No. 340 answered with Question No. 331.

Local Government Appointments

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

341 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he is satisfied that there is no conflict of interest in relation to the membership of organisations (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29737/11]

I am not aware of any conflict of interest in relation to the membership of the organisations in question.

The appointment of members to the Limerick Reorganisation Implementation Group was based, inter alia, on their specific working knowledge of local government in Limerick; experience in local government and organisational matters generally; expertise in business and development matters in Limerick and the broader region; and the desirability of providing continuity of approach in terms of membership of the Mid-West Task Force and the 2010 Limerick Local Government Committee.

Waste Management

Alex White

Question:

342 Deputy Alex White asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, in view of the irreparable damage caused to the long-term sustainability of a number of small businesses which have experienced a 93% market reduction since the plastic bag levy was introduced in 2002, if he is willing to consider negotiating a modest compensation scheme for those businesses who have lost a core revenue resource as a result; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29739/11]

Prior to the introduction of the plastic bag levy, a two-month consultation period was provided to give interested parties an opportunity to make comments or observations in relation to the draft regulations. The Department examined the submissions that were made, to see if the draft regulations needed to be adjusted before they were finalised. On foot of the examination of the submissions received, several changes were made, such as the deferral of the introduction of the levy until 4 March 2002. Final regulations were introduced on 19 December 2001.

Having considered the implications of the levy for the suppliers of plastic bags, it was decided not to offer any form of compensation to those adversely affected by the levy. There has been no change in this position and therefore there is no compensation scheme available for those businesses affected by the levy.

The plastic bag levy was introduced primarily as an anti litter measure and has been an outstanding success since its introduction on 4 March 2002.

Plastic bag consumption had increased substantially in Ireland in the 1990s. One of the most significant side effects of this trend was the careless disposal of plastic bags by consumers after use — a significant proportion of which ended up as highly visible components of litter and also became highly persistent pollutants in urban, rural and coastal settings. This trend was also undermining Ireland's clean, green image on which the Irish tourism industry depends.

The fall in the consumption of plastic bags from 328 bags per capita prior to the introduction of the levy, to an estimated 18 bags per capita in 2010, demonstrates how successful the levy has been. The most recent survey data available for 2010 from the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System show that plastic bags now constitute approximately 0.25% of litter pollution nationally compared to approximately 5% of litter arising prior to the introduction of the levy.

Tax Code

Timmy Dooley

Question:

343 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will clarify the exemptions on the second home tax and particularly the exemption on nearby second homes; if this exemption or waiver applies to urban and rural second homes; if there is any provision for an exemption based on the occupant’s status, age, health etc.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29749/11]

The legislation providing for the charge on non-principal private residences is the Local Government (Charges) Act 2009. Section 2 of the Act provides for the exclusion of certain buildings from the charge as follows:

a) certain heritage buildings approved under section 482 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997;

b) newly constructed but unsold buildings that form part of the trading stock of a business;

c) a building let by the Government, a housing authority and the Health Service Executive;

d) a building occupied under a shared ownership lease within the meaning of section 2 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1992;

e) a building let by a voluntary housing body;

f) a building leased under the Rental Accommodation Scheme;

g) a building leased to the Health Service Executive; and

h) a building in respect of which commercial rates are paid.

Section 4 of the Act provides for exemptions from the charge as follows:

a) a building which is occupied by an individual as his or her sole or main residence;

b) a building partly occupied by a person as his or her sole or main residence and in respect of which that person is entitled to and is claiming relief under the provisions of the Rent-a-Room Scheme;

c) residential property of discretionary trusts or corporate bodies that are accorded charitable status;

d) an owner of residential property who is in the process of moving house on a liability date and for that reason owns two properties for a relatively short period;

e) where a divorce or separation has been granted on or before a liability date in respect of a marriage and one party continues to reside in the family home as their sole or main residence but the other party, (a co-owner with the other spouse) does not;

f) where a person who owns a principal private residence vacates the dwelling in question because he or she is long term incapacitated as a result of physical or mental illness; and

g) where a ‘granny flat' is occupied rent free by a relative of the owner of both the granny flat and the principal residence and the properties concerned are on the same property or within 2 kilometres of each other.

The ‘granny flat' provision was provided to principally cater for situations in which accommodation might be provided for a parent by a son or daughter, and follows precedent from Revenue legislation dealing with the home carer tax credit. The exemption applies generally and there are no distinctions as to urban or rural residential property or in relation to the status, age or health of a relative.

Local Authority Charges

Jerry Buttimer

Question:

344 Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of court cases to recover unpaid commercial rates initiated by local authorities in each of the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29750/11]

Jerry Buttimer

Question:

345 Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of judgments awarded in favour of the local authorities and the amount secured by such judgments in court cases to recover unpaid commercial rates initiated by local authorities in each of the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29751/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 344 and 345 together.

I have no function in relation to the matters raised in the Questions and the information requested is not available in my Department.

Jerry Buttimer

Question:

346 Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the criteria used by local authorities when determining which unpaid commercial rates are to be written off as bad debts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29752/11]

The levying and collection of rates are matters for each individual local authority. As with all local charges, the invoicing and collection of due amounts is a matter for the local authority concerned to manage in the light of prevailing local circumstances and in accordance with normal accountancy procedures. In accordance with the Local Authority Accounting in Ireland Code of Practice and Accounting Regulations issued by my Department in December 2009 under section 107 of the Local Government Act 2001, local authorities are required to make provision for doubtful debts and to write off known uncollectible debts.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

347 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29779/11]

The capping of existing pensions of former employees of State agencies would involve changes to terms and conditions and is a policy matter for the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.

The following additional information was provided under Standing Order 40A:

Pensions of former employees of State agencies under the aegis of my Department are paid directly by the agencies. Accordingly, information regarding the level of these payments is a matter, in the first instance, for each agency, and is not readily available in my Department.

However, the table outlines the number of former employees in receipt of pension payments in each State agency under the aegis of my Department as at October 2010 broken down by income band. For illustrative purposes, by calculating notional average pension payments for each income band, a notional potential saving of €1.38 million could be realised if pension payments were capped at €35,000.

Pension payments in State Agencies under the aegis of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government — October 2010

Level of gross annual pension payable

State Agency

Above €155,000

Above €135,000 but less than €154,999

Above €115,000 but less than €134,999

Above €95,000 but less than €114,999

Above €75,000 but less than €94,999

Above €55,000 but less than €74,999

Above €35,000 but less than €54,999

Above €15,000 but less than €34,999

Below €15,000

Total

Environmental Protection Agency

0

0

0

0

2

4

26

15

33

80

Private Rented Tenancies Board

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

An Bord Pleanala

0

0

2

0

1

4

6

10

8

31

Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland

0

0

0

0

1

0

3

3

1

8

Housing Finance Agency

0

0

0

0

0

1

0

1

0

2

National Building Agency

0

0

0

0

0

0

3

11

12

26

Dublin Docklands Development Agency

0

0

0

0

0

0

2

0

1

3

Limerick Regeneration

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Environmental Research Unit (no longer in existence

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

1

0

2

Affordable Homes Partnership

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

An Chomhairle Leabharlanna

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

2

1

4

Local Government Management Services Board

0

0

0

0

2

0

0

3

1

6

Local Government Computer Services Board

0

0

0

0

0

4

9

7

3

23

Irish Water Safety

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Total Number of Pensions

0

0

2

0

6

13

51

53

60

185

Notional Average salary in income band

€155,000

€145,000

€125,000

€105,000

€85,000

€65,000

€45,000

€25,000

€7,500

Notional Savings if pensions capped at €35000

€0

€0

€179,999

€0

€299,997

€389,994

€509,975

€0

€0

€1,379,964

Regeneration Projects

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

348 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the cost of the original regeneration tenders for projects (details supplied). [28877/11]

I refer to the reply to Question No. 334 of 11 October 2011, setting out the current position in relation to the national regeneration programme and the individual regeneration projects being progressed in Limerick City and in Dublin at St Michael's Estate, O'Devaney Gardens, Dominick Street and Dolphin House.

Dublin City Council previously intended carrying out the regeneration of St. Michael's Estate, O'Devaney Gardens, St. Teresa's Gardens and Dominick Street by way of a Public Private Partnership (PPP). Under these arrangements a significant mixed use development using local authority land assets would have been delivered at no net cost to the Exchequer. By their nature, PPP housing and mixed use projects required a lengthy and complex procurement process. By late 2008 the downturn in the housing market and wider economic conditions had made the original plans for the PPP projects at these locations unviable and, although preferred bidders had been selected for the redevelopment of St. Michael's Estate, O'Devaney Gardens and Dominick Street, these projects were suspended. The detailed information set out in the tender process is not available in my Department. The proposed PPP at St. Teresa's Gardens was still at a very early stage and, in light of the prevailing conditions, the PPP procurement process was also suspended at this location.

Given the pressing need for regeneration in the Dublin city flat complexes, the City Council, with support from my Department, established a multi-disciplinary Special Housing Taskforce to examine the alternative options for the redevelopment of these complexes and, in particular, for the fast tracking of the relocation of households from poor accommodation to better accommodation. Initially, the taskforce prioritised the projects at St. Michael's Estate, O'Devaney Gardens and Dominick Street and developed alternative masterplans that recognised the greater involvement of public sector finance. It is clear that the Exchequer would not be in a position to fully support the original, ambitious masterplans, involving as they did a range of private housing, commercial and office facilities, as well as social housing and community facilities. To date, my Department has provided support for the construction of phase 1 of St. Michael's Estate, for the relocation of households from O'Devaney Gardens to facilitate the demolitions that are now well advanced, and relocations and demolitions at Dominick Street. Planning permission was granted in summer 2011 for O'Devaney Gardens and is pending for Dominick Street, with a decision expected this month. The full costs of the projects will not be available until after the tender process is completed. My Department approved funding of €5.8 million for the first phase of St. Michael's Estate. This is currently under construction.

With regard to the redevelopment of the Charlemont Flat Complex, this remains the City Council's only PPP housing project. Planning permission for a mixed use development with residential units, offices, retail units, restaurants, community sports facilities and a cinema was granted earlier in 2011 and the Council continues to progress the procurement process. It is not possible to estimate the total cost of the project at this stage in the process. However, such projects continue to be based on the leveraging of land assets to deliver mixed-use developments which include social housing at no net cost to the Exchequer.

Dublin City Council has also been progressing an area-wide improvement programme in Cherry Orchard based on the principles of a holistic approach to building sustainable communities. This approach has delivered social, economic and physical improvements to the area, and has involved a range of stakeholders including local community and business interests as well as the City Council. This improvement programme has been delivered by the City Council outside of the National Regeneration Programme.

Closed Circuit Television Systems

Dara Calleary

Question:

349 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of CCTV projects that have been funded through the RAPID programme; the location of these projects; and the amount spent on each one. [29926/11]

Details of approvals for CCTV-related projects (37 in total) that have been funded through the RAPID programme, with co-funding from the Department of Justice and Equality, are listed in the table below.

Community-Based CCTV Scheme

CCTV No.

RAPID Area

Budget Department of Justice and Equality

Budget Department Environment, Community and Local Government

Total Award

CCTVR2Con05

Waterford City

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

CCTVR2Con11

Cavan Town

€88,589.00

€88,589.00

€177,178.00

CCTVR2Con12

Dublin City (Liberties)

€99,415.00

€99,415.00

€198,830.00

CCTVR2Con14

New Ross, Wexford

€85,142.50

€85,142.50

€170,285.00

CCTVR2Con15

Cork City

€76,706.50

€76,706.50

€153,413.00

CCTVR2Con18

Dublin North West Inner City

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

CCTVR2Con09

Kilkenny City

€54,664.50

€54,664.50

€109,329.00

CCTVR2S204

Longford Town

€87,096.50

€87,096.50

€174,193.00

CCTVR2S213

Drogheda, Louth

€84,330.50

€84,331.50

€168,661.00

CCTVR2S218

Dublin City — St Teresa’s Gardens

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

CCTVR2S219

Balcurris — Ballymun

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

CCTVR2S220

Poppintree — Ballymun

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

CCTVR2S221

Coultry — Ballymun

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

CCTVR2S222

Sillogue — Ballymun

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

CCTVR2S223

Shangan — Ballymun

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

CCTVR2S229

Ennis, Clare

€99,893.00

€99,893.00

€199,786.00

CCTVR2S231

Dundalk, Louth

€96,558.00

€96,558.00

€193,116.00

CCTVR2S201

Tralee, Kerry

€72,234.00

€72,234.00

€144,468.00

CCTVR2Con03

Carrick-on-Suir, Tipperary

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

CCTVR2Con01

Fettercairn, Tallaght, Dublin

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

CCTVR2Con02

Killinarden, Tallaght, Dublin

€99,656.50

€99,656.50

€199,313.00

CCTVR2Con07

Clondalkin

€93,325.00

€93,325.00

€186,650.00

CCTVR2Con08

Jobstown, Tallaght

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

CCTVR2Con10

Clonmel, Tipperary

€90,825.00

€90,825.00

€181,650.00

CCTVR2S226

St. Munchins, Limerick City

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

CCTV069

Athy, Kildare

€35,726.00

€35,726.00

€71,452.00

CCTV018

Corduff, Dublin

€77,374.00

€77,374.00

€154,748.00

CCTV073

Drogheda, Louth

€89,401.00

€89,401.00

€178,802.00

CCTV056

Ballinasloe, Galway

€71,789.00

€71,789.00

€143,578.00

CCTV002

Tuam, Galway

€95,583.00

€95,583.00

€191,166.00

CCTV023

Mallow, Cork

€65,822.00

€65,822.00

€131,644.00

CCTV059

Moyross, Limerick City

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

CCTV055

Our Lady of Lourdes Community, Limerick City

€49,411.00

€49,411.00

€98,822.00

CCTV054

Cranmore, Sligo

€53,119.00

€53,119.00

€106,238.00

CCTV051

Northside, Sligo

€42,834.00

€42,834.00

€85,668.00

CCTV080

Tralee , Kerry

€50,000.00

€50,000.00

€100,000.00

CCTV079

Waterford City

€100,000.00

€100,000.00

€200,000.00

Total

€3,159,495.00

€3,159,496.00

€6,318,990.00

Question No. 350 answered with Question No. 323.

Private Rented Accommodation

Barry Cowen

Question:

351 Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will confirm that the Private Residential Tenancies Board has sufficient legal jurisdiction to deal with residential tenancy contracts, or if such contracts should be considered as civil matters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29934/11]

The Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) was established under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004. The Act provides the main legislative framework for the private rented residential sector and for the operation of the PRTB. It sets out the obligations of tenants and landlords in the sector and the PRTB is charged with the enforcement of those obligations, as necessary, and the administration of the Act. The Act applies to all dwellings that are the subject of a tenancy, whether oral or in writing or implied, except for the exemptions outlined in section 3(2) of the Act. Matters arising within the exempted categories are dealt with, as necessary, by civil proceedings. All other matters fall to be dealt with by the PRTB.

Proposed Legislation

Aodhán Ó Ríordáin

Question:

352 Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when he intends to publish a climate change Bill; and his strategy to meet the EU 2020 targets. [29952/11]

My immediate priority on climate change is to finalise a review of national policy in light of existing and anticipated national greenhouse gas mitigation targets up to the period 2020. The review, which is almost finalised and will be made available as soon as possible on my Department's website, will provide the background for future policy development. I am satisfied that Ireland can and will meet its 2020 greenhouse gas emission reduction obligations under EU law. This will be achieved through progress on the domestic climate agenda, complemented as necessary by use of flexibilities provided in Decision 406/2009/EC of 23 April 2009.

Waste Management

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

353 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding grants available to voluntary, community or co-operative groups for initiatives relating to recycling, composting or reusing waste; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29974/11]

My Department provides funding through the Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund to assist small scale, local, non-profit environmental projects aimed at increasing environmental awareness and developing sustainable communities. Community groups can apply for funding for a variety of environmental projects including those relating to recycling, composting or reusing waste. Application for funding is made to local authorities who match the funding provided by the Department. The funding programme has operated since 1997 and my Department is providing funding of €395,000 for the scheme in 2011. An invitation to community groups to submit proposals for the 2011 scheme is currently open; submissions are to be returned to the relevant local authority by 19 October.

Community groups in rural areas can also avail of support under the measures of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2007-2013 that are managed by my Department. The Programme has an objective of supporting integrated approaches to the protection of local heritage through a suite of related preservation actions, complemented by a range of initiatives designed to develop the sustainable economic contribution of our natural heritage. In this context, actions to support waste reduction can be supported, particularly those initiated through community effort. Anyone wishing to apply for this funding should contact their Local Development Company. The contact details for the Local Development Companies contracted to deliver the RDP in Ireland can be found on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.

A number of grants are also available to voluntary, community or cooperative groups for initiatives in relation to preventing, recycling, composting or reusing waste, through the National Waste Prevention Programme which is run by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Departmental Agencies

Seán Kenny

Question:

354 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the names of persons who are the accounting officers to State agencies and State boards under his remit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29992/11]

The term Accounting Officer is defined under the Comptroller & Auditor General (Amendment) Act 1993 and the duties of an Accounting Officer are set out in Section 19 of that Act.

Accounting Officers can be appointed in two ways:

(i) Secretaries General of Government Departments and Heads of most Offices that have a Vote are appointed under Section 22 of the Exchequer and Audit Departments Act, 1866, which provides the legislative basis empowering the Minister for Finance to appoint an Accounting Officer in respect of any body for which a Vote is included in the Annual Appropriation Act.

(ii) Heads (CEO, Director, Chairman, etc.) of some Offices that have a Vote are appointed to the position of Accounting Officer on foot of primary legislation, i.e. the legislation which established the Office specifies to whom the role of Accounting Officer is assigned, for the Vote of that Office.

The legislation establishing some public bodies makes the CEO, Director, Chairman, etc. of the body accountable to the Committee of Public Accounts (PAC). This should not be confused with the position of an Accounting Officer. An Accounting Officer receives a Vote direct from the Exchequer and thus is required to produce an Appropriation Account. No agency under the aegis of my Department receives a Vote directly from the Exchequer.

Building Regulations

Terence Flanagan

Question:

355 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when he will be seeking public consultation on the building regulations and especially on Technical Guidance Document B: Fire Safety; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30019/11]

My Department, in conjunction with the Building Regulations Advisory Body (BRAB), is commencing a review of Part B (Fire Safety) of the Building Regulations and the accompanying Technical Guidance Document B (2006). An initial public consultation process will take place to ensure all relevant matters are covered in the review and this process will commence shortly. There will be a further public consultation process at a later stage in the project when draft proposals have been developed.

Waste Management

Tom Fleming

Question:

356 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to restructure Ireland’s waste market to restrict side by side competition; and his views on a document (details supplied). [30160/11]

The Programme for Government contains a commitment to introduce competitive tendering for household waste collection, under which service providers will bid to provide waste collection services in a given area, for a given period of time and to a guaranteed level of service. A public consultation on the issues involved, designed to inform the policy development process, has recently concluded. The responses received, including a response from the party referred to in the Question, are being examined and I intend to bring policy proposals to Government before the end of the year.

Appointments to State Boards

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

357 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the saving to the State if all State agency board members’ annual payments were rescinded and instead board membership was awarded without remuneration. [30256/11]

Based on the latest full year for which figures are available, 2010, fees totalling €428,605 were payable to board members in State agencies under the aegis of my Department. On the basis that all fees were paid it should be possible to save the entire amount through the abolition of fees. Where public servants are appointed to Boards, no fees are payable. In this regard, public servants make up over half of the combined membership of the Boards of agencies under my Department's aegis. The boards of An Bord Pleanála and the Environmental Protection Agency are executive in nature and the members hold full-time salaried positions. As part of a rigorous appraisal of the State Agencies under the aegis of my Department, the overall number of agencies is being reduced from 21 to 12.

Departmental Bodies

Aodhán Ó Ríordáin

Question:

358 Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding the possible merger of the National Disability Authority and the Equality Authority, which was recently recommended by a collection of rights bodies to his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29538/11]

Following consideration of the relative merits of mergers involving the two bodies named, along with the Irish Human Rights Commission and the Equality Tribunal, the Government recently decided that the Human Rights and Equality agendas would best be enhanced by merging the Equality Authority and the Irish Human Rights Commission. I anticipate that the new Human Rights and Equality Commission will be in place early next year.

Housing Market

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

359 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he intends to create a register of the sale prices of all houses and apartments sold here to ensure greater transparency in the housing and auctioneering sectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29586/11]

The Programme for Government contains a commitment to improve the quality of information available on the Irish housing market by requiring that the selling price of all dwellings be recorded in a publicly available national housing price database. I intend to give effect to this commitment by assigning statutory responsibility for publishing details of residential property sales prices to the Property Services Regulatory Authority. The Dáil Committee Stage of the Property Services (Regulation) Bill 2009, which provides for establishment of the Authority, is scheduled for tomorrow. I have tabled Committee Stage amendments to the Bill which will expand the Authority's statutory functions to include the publication of residential property sales prices. This information will be supplied to the Authority on an ongoing basis by the Revenue Commissioners who are in receipt of it for stamp duty purposes.

Garda Vetting

Tony McLoughlin

Question:

360 Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to set up a single child vetting body in which a single card would be issued to cover all activities, including educational, sporting, youth club activities and community programmes involving children; and if this card would be valid for a fixed period, similar to a driving licence. [29710/11]

The Garda Central Vetting Unit (GCVU) provides employment vetting for a large number of organisations registered with the Garda for this purpose and which employ persons in a full-time, part-time, voluntary or training capacity to positions where they would have substantial, unsupervised access to children and/or vulnerable adults. On 27 July, I published the Scheme of a National Vetting Bureau Bill. The Bill will provide a statutory basis underpinning vetting procedures for persons to work with children and vulnerable adults. It will also provide that all vetting will be conducted by a single agency — The National Vetting Bureau. The Bureau a will take over the work of the GCVU. The Bill will be published in accordance with the Government's Legislative programme.

Child Protection

Alan Farrell

Question:

361 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the guidelines or proposed guidelines he has to deal with social media bullying of children and teenagers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30010/11]

The term cyberbullying refers to bullying carried out using the internet, mobile phones or other technological devices. Cyberbullying is a complex issue which transcends the home or school environment. Cyberbullying generally takes a psychological rather than physical form but is often part of a wider pattern of "traditional" bullying.

Specifically in relation to social networking websites, the first thing anyone should do if they have issues with content on a Social Networking Site is to report the matter to the website. A person can use the website reporting tools to do this and should also contact the service provider through its Customer Care or Report Abuse facility. In February 2009, the Safer Social Networking Principles for the EU were adopted on a voluntary basis by the major social networking website operators in the EU, in an initiative lead by the EU Commission. The Safer Social Networking Principles for the EU were developed to provide good practice recommendations for social networking providers to enhance the safety of children and young people using these services. The Principles provide that social networking services should, inter alia, provide a mechanism for reporting inappropriate content, respond to notifications of illegal or inappropriate content or conduct and should review their systems for examining and responding to such reports. The EU Commission has indicated that it will monitor the implementation of the Principles on an ongoing basis.

I should also inform the Deputy of the Safer Internet Ireland project, which is coordinated by the Office for Internet Safety (OIS) in my Department. This project, which is funded by the EU's Safer Internet Programme, comprises a consortium of industry, education, child welfare and government partners that acts as a Safer Internet Centre to provide Safer Internet awareness, hotline and helpline functions and activities for the Republic of Ireland. The main aim of the project is to develop national initiatives promoting the safer use of electronic media and enhance protection of the vulnerable, particularly children and young people, against the downside of the internet. The Office for Internet Safety has published a number of relevant information guides which have been widely disseminated, including "A Parents Guide to Social Networking Sites" and "A Guide to Cyberbullying".

As part of the Safer Internet Ireland project, the National Centre for Technology in Education (NCTE), an Agency of the Department of Education and Skills, manages the Webwise initiative (www.webwise.ie) which is the Irish Internet Safety Awareness Centre. Webwise provides parents, teachers and children with educational resources, advice and information about potential dangers on the internet and empowers users to minimise or avoid these risks. The NCTE also operates the www.watchyourspace.ie website which provides advice for young people on how to manage their online activities to avoid problems. The ISPCC’s Childline service receives funding from the Safer Internet Ireland project to support it in responding to contact from young people who may have encountered difficulties in their use of the internet and other technologies, including issues such as cyberbullying. Another element of the Safer Internet Ireland project involves funding to the National Parents Council (Primary) which operates a national confidential helpline for parents providing information and support to parents if their children encounter issues on the internet, particularly cyberbullying.

Rights of Way

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

362 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding amendments to the rules regarding rights of way; when same will be before Dáil Éireann again; and the timeframe for same. [30073/11]

The position is that Parts 12 and 13 of the recently-enacted Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2011, which contain amendments to the Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Act 2009 and the Registration of Title Act 1964 respectively, amend the law relating to the acquisition of easements, including rights of way, by prescription. The amendments permit the Property Registration Authority (PRA) to register such an easement without a court order where there is no disagreement between the parties concerning entitlement to the easement concerned. The period during which easements acquired, or in the process of being acquired, before 1 December 2009 (the date the 2009 Act came into force) may be registered has also been extended from 3 years to 12 years. Land Registration Rules to implement the new PRA scheme are being finalised at present.

Road Traffic Offences

Kevin Humphreys

Question:

363 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of on-the-spot fines or prosecutions on an annual basis since 2007 that were taken for failure to use proper lighting on a bicycle as outlined under the Road Traffic (Lighting of Vehicles) Regulations 1963; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29465/11]

Following the submission in 2004 of a report and recommendations by an expert group on crime statistics, it was decided that the compilation and publication of crime statistics should be taken over by the Central Statistics Office, as the national statistical agency, from An Garda Síochána. The Garda Síochána Act 2005 consequently makes provision for this and the CSO has established a dedicated unit for this purpose. Following the setting up of the necessary technical systems and auditing of the data from which the statistics are compiled, the CSO is now compiling, publishing and responding to queries regarding recorded crime statistics.

I have requested the CSO to provide statistics directly to the Deputy.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that there is currently no provision in law for the issue of fixed charge notices in respect of offences by pedal cyclists, including failure to use proper lighting on a bicycle. Road traffic law is the responsibility of my colleague the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport.

Kevin Humphreys

Question:

364 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of prosecutions that were taken at the District Courts on an annual basis since 2007 against cyclists for road traffic offences; if he will provide a breakdown of the offences; the number of cyclists who were prosecuted for cycling on a footpath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29466/11]

Following the submission in 2004 of a report and recommendations by an expert group on crime statistics, it was decided that the compilation and publication of crime statistics should be taken over by the Central Statistics Office, as the national statistical agency, from An Garda Síochána. The Garda Síochána Act 2005 consequently makes provision for this and the CSO has established a dedicated unit for this purpose. Following the setting up of the necessary technical systems and auditing of the data from which the statistics are compiled, the CSO is now compiling, publishing and responding to queries regarding recorded crime statistics.

I have requested the CSO to provide statistics directly to the Deputy.

Citizenship Applications

Joe Costello

Question:

365 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice and Equality how a refugee who has been granted residency here but whose home documents are lost or destroyed in their home country can apply for naturalisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29487/11]

With reference to the further information provided by the Deputy, I am advised by the Citizenship Division of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that an application for a certificate of naturalisation was received from the person concerned in September 2011.

The application is currently being processed 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 as expeditiously as possible. Persons lodging an application for a certificate of naturalisation are required to provide evidence of their identity. In rare circumstances where an applicant cannot obtain their birth certificate or other supporting documents for reasons genuinely beyond their control, alternative means of validating the identity of the person are put in place. This is individually assessed in each case.

The granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is a privilege and an honour which confers certain rights and entitlements not only within the State but also at European Union level and it is important that appropriate procedures are in place to preserve the integrity of the process.

Road Traffic Offences

Thomas Pringle

Question:

366 Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will ensure that the new speed cameras being operated on behalf of the Garda and its own speed camera vans are not located in certain areas only to generate revenue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29499/11]

In November, 2009 a contract was concluded for the provision of an outsourced safety camera network to An Garda Síochána. The objective of the network is to reduce the number of speed related collisions and so save lives, as excessive or inappropriate speeding is a major factor in road traffic collisions and fatalities.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that, in preparation for the roll out of the network, An Garda Síochána, in conjunction with the National Roads Authority, carried out an extensive analysis of the collision history of the road network, as a result of which sections of road were identified where a significant proportion of collisions where speed was deemed the primary contributory factor occurred. Based on this analysis, a list of speed enforcement zones has been developed, with the aim of providing information to motorists in order to raise awareness of the danger of speeding in these zones. An Garda Síochána utilises this information to direct speed enforcement activity in a proportionate and targeted manner. Information on the location of these speed enforcement zones is publicly available on the Garda website www.garda.ie.

Surveys are conducted on an ongoing basis to ensure that the safety cameras continue to be deployed on roads which are identified as being subject to inappropriate speed and where fatal and injury collisions occur.

It is also the objective of the safety cameras directly operated by An Garda Síochána to reduce the number of speed-related collisions and so save lives.

Noel Grealish

Question:

367 Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the operators of speed detection vans in at least two locations (details supplied) in County Galway are issuing fixed charge notices to motorists containing the incorrect address with regard to the location at which the speeding offence occurred; the number of motorists who have had their fines returned and penalty points removed as a direct result of these errors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29523/11]

I have requested a report from the Garda authorities in relation to the matter referred to by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy again when the report is to hand.

Liquor Licensing Laws

Michael Creed

Question:

368 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the legislative or other initiatives he plans with regard to regulation of the sale of alcohol through off-licences; if he is satisfied with the Responsible Retailers of Alcohol in Ireland voluntary code and compliance with same; his views regarding the code as it relates to specialist off-licences and mixed traders; his further views regarding enforcement of section 9 of the miscellaneous provisions Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29530/11]

The Chairperson of Responsible Retailing of Alcohol in Ireland (RRAI), Mr Padraic White, submitted the 3rd Compliance Report on the Implementation of the Code of Practice on the Display and Sale of Alcohol in Mixed Trading Premises on 30 September. The Code does not apply to specialist off-licences.

Arrangements are currently being made to publish that Report on my Department's website. I intend to seek the views of interested bodies on its conclusions and, more generally, on the effectiveness of the voluntary approach to implementing structural separation objectives in mixed trading premises preparatory to a decision on whether to commence the statutory provisions on structural separation in section 9 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2008.

Certification of Documents

Jim Daly

Question:

369 Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason he will not certify copies of original documents held by his Department. [29542/11]

Documentation submitted to my Department to attest to an individual's identity and nationality is retained on file until the relevant case has had a definitive outcome. My Department will supply a photo-copy of such documentation on request. However, my Department cannot certify such documentation as being authentic as it cannot be certain of its provenance.

Prison Accommodation

Clare Daly

Question:

370 Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of prisoners who currently have to slop out; the number of same who must do so while sharing cells; and his view on whether this constitutes a violation of prisoner human rights. [29550/11]

I am informed by the Irish Prison Service that there were 830 prisoners in custody on 12 October 2011 who did not have access to 24-hour in-cell sanitation. Of that number, 555 prisoners were in multiple-occupancy cells.

Unfortunately, this issue cannot be resolved overnight. However, I can assure the Deputy that the Government is committed to the elimination of slopping out in all prisons and places of detention. The Programme for Government includes the objective to provide in-cell sanitation to all prisons, and in so far as resources permit, to upgrade prison facilities where possible.

I share the view of the Thornton Hall Review Group that decisive action is required on a number of fronts in order to address the problem of overcrowding and poor physical conditions particularly in Mountjoy and Cork Prisons. As the Deputy will know, the Government has decided in principle to proceed with the construction of new prison facilities at Thornton Hall and also at Kilworth, County Cork, albeit on a much smaller scale and design to that previously envisaged. The timeframe for this project is currently being discussed in the context of the Government's discussions on capital spending priorities for 2012.

I am informed by the Irish Prison Service that 72% of prisoner accommodation has in-cell sanitation at present. This will rise to in excess of 80% when the extension currently under construction in the Midlands Prison is opened in 2012.

A refurbishment project is also nearing completion in the basement of the C-wing at Mountjoy Prison which will result in an additional 36 cells with in-cell sanitation coming on stream by October, 2011. In addition, work has commenced on a project to provide in-cell sanitation in the remaining 74 cells on the same wing which is expected to be completed by the end of the October. Depending on the findings of a post project appraisal, the Irish Prison Service will consider installing in-cell sanitation facilities in the remaining cells of Mountjoy and indeed to other facilities that do not have in-cell sanitation.

The Irish Prison Service also has toilet patrols in operation until late evening in Mountjoy, Cork and Limerick Prisons with staff rostered to provide this function after final lock in the evenings. Prisoners requesting to use toilet facilities after these times are accommodated where possible. The possibility of extending toilet patrols is being further examined by the Irish Prison Service.

Youth Projects

Gerry Adams

Question:

371 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the amount of funding that a youth project (details supplied) in Drogheda, County Louth, receives in funding from the Garda diversion fund; the amount of funding same has received in each of the past five years; the number of community employment staff employed with the project; the number who will be employed from next year on; and how reductions in funding will affect the level of service delivered by this project. [29572/11]

The project in question is one of a hundred Garda Youth Diversion Projects nationwide. The projects are community-based, multi-agency crime prevention initiatives which seek to divert young people who have been involved in criminal and/or anti-social behaviour or who are at serious risk of such behaviour. The projects, which are funded by the Irish Youth Justice Service and delivered in collaboration with An Garda Síochána and local community/youth organisations, have a clear role in intervening to challenge bad behaviour and to promote good behaviour. They do so by providing suitable activities to facilitate personal development and promote civic responsibility and improve long-term employability prospects.

The following table sets out the funding provided by IYJS to the project in question over the past five years.

Year

Funding

2011

€105,234

2010

€108,746

2009

€113,230

2008

€102,020

2007

€77,787

Since 2008, IYJS has provided funding to the local youth organisation to directly employ two youth justice workers on this project. The Deputy will be aware that expenditure programmes are being examined in the context of the comprehensive Review of Expenditure currently being undertaken across all Government Departments and Agencies. Accordingly, it would be premature to comment at this stage in relation to the impacts for 2012 until the final position is known.

Property Services Regulation

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

372 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the plans he has to reform the auctioneering industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29587/11]

The position is that the Property Services (Regulation) Bill 2009, which is currently awaiting Dail Committee Stage, provides for establishment of the Property Services Regulatory Authority to control and supervise providers of property services, including auctioneers, and to improve standards in the provision of those services.

The proposed statutory powers of the new Authority include:

issuing and renewing licenses for property services providers;

specifying and enforcing qualification requirements, including levels of education, training and experience, and other requirements such as minimum levels of professional indemnity insurance, for the issue and renewal of licences;

specifying and enforcing ethical standards to be observed in the provision of property services;

publishing codes of practice, or approving codes drawn up by other bodies, for the purpose of setting standards for the provision of property services;

investigating complaints against licensees and imposing a range of sanctions in cases of improper conduct.

The Bill has already been passed by the Seanad and Dáil Committee Stage is scheduled for tomorrow.

Garda Vetting

John Lyons

Question:

373 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the length of time for which garda vetting applies; if it can be transferred from one job to another within the lifetime of the vetting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29603/11]

Garda vetting certificates are issued to specified registered organisations in respect of a particular post or employment in response to a written request and with the permission of the person who is the subject of that request. Decisions on the suitability for the recruitment/engagement of the person concerned rest at all times with the recruiting organisation.

The Garda Vetting certificate is non-transferable. It is important to emphasise that it is a disclosure to the requesting, registered organisation of the position at the time when it is issued. Furthermore, non-transferability protects against the risk of fraud or forgery of such certificates and is a guarantee of the integrity of the vetting system.

Illegal Immigrants

Finian McGrath

Question:

374 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the approximate number of illegal immigrants here; and the most common way of accessing this State. [29628/11]

By definition, it is not possible to estimate accurately the number and source of illegal immigrants in any jurisdiction. Ireland is no different in this regard as by its very nature illegal immigration is clandestine and covert. Any estimate of the number involved would be conjecture.

In keeping with practice elsewhere, illegal immigrants are likely to have entered the State by legal means in the first instance by the usual routes of airports, ferry ports, or through the land border with Northern Ireland.

Road Traffic Offences

Sandra McLellan

Question:

375 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of prosecution cases for speeding that have been brought in front of Mallow District Court, Kanturk District Court, Macroom District Court and Fermoy District court, County Cork, on the basis of evidence obtained by mobile speed detection vans from 1 January 2011 to 1 October 2011, inclusive; and the number of these cases in each of Mallow District Court, Kanturk District Court, Macroom District Court and Fermoy District Court that have been dismissed or struck out. [29630/11]

Under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998, the management and administration of the courts, including responsibility for maintaining and publishing court statistics, is a function of the Courts Service. However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had inquiries made and, while the Courts Service has informed me that it is not possible to provide statistics solely relating to those speeding offences detected by mobile speed detection vans, it has provided information as follows.

Table 1 below sets out details of the number of camera speeding offences from 1 January, 2011 to 1 October, 2011, which includes detections by mobile speed detection vans and other detections, such as those by gardaí using hand held devices.

Table 2 below sets out details of speeding offences based on non-camera evidence from 1 January, 2011 to 1 October, 2011.

Table 1

Orders

Fermoy

Mallow

Macroom*

Total**

Dismiss

11

14

3

28

Dismiss on probation

5

5

Fine

25

10

5

40

Strike out

21

8

29

Poor box

2

1

3

Withdrawn

4

4

Total

59

33

17

109

Table 2

Orders

Fermoy

Mallow

Macroom*

Total**

Dismiss

1

1

1

3

Dismiss on probation

16

16

Disqualified

2

2

Fine

27

14

30

71

Strike out

6

3

9

Poor box

2

1

3

6

Taken into consideration

1

1

Withdrawn

1

12

13

Total

36

20

65

121

*Macroom District Court was closed for refurbishment from 10 November, 2010 to 3 May, 2011 and court business transferred to Bandon District Court for that period.

**Kanturk District Court area was amalgamated with Mallow District Court area on 1 September, 2010 and all court business was dealt with at Mallow District Court.

Human Rights Issues

Clare Daly

Question:

376 Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if, with regard to the statement in the stakeholder summary report prepared by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights that, contrary to section 6 of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964 which confers joint guardianship to the mother and the father of a child, fathers are generally discriminated against, notably following separation or divorce, and the stakeholder recommendation that whenever consent is deemed necessary it should be sought from both legal guardians, there are any developments in this area; and if there are any plans to address this discrimination. [29642/11]

In the Stakeholder Summary Report, reference is made to a submission by Equality for Fathers Ireland (EFI) which stated that, contrary to section 6 of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964 conferring joint guardianship to the mother and the father of a child, fathers were generally discriminated against, notably following separation or divorce. EFI recommended that wherever consent was deemed necessary, it should be sought from both legal guardians.

As the Deputy knows, section 6 of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964 as amended confers guardianship of the child of married parents on both parents jointly. Separation or divorce of the parents does not affect the status of either parent as a guardian of their child or children. In cases where both parents maintain an ongoing interest and involvement in their children's lives, they should jointly make important decisions concerning the children's health, education and upbringing. However, given the many different family dynamics resulting from marriage break-up, it may not always be practical for both parents to consent to each and every decision made about the child's upbringing

Present law is comprehensive. Under section 11 of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964 as amended, a guardian of a child may apply to the court for direction on any question affecting the welfare of the child. As with all orders under the Act, the court is required to regard the welfare of the child as the first and paramount consideration. Section 11D of the Act, inserted by the Children Act 1997, provides that the court must also have regard to whether the child's best interests would be served by maintaining personal relations and direct contact with both his father and mother on a regular basis. It is also important to recall that in all proceedings under the Act, where appropriate and practicable the court must take into account the child's wishes in the matter, having regard to the age and understanding of the child. In practical terms, the older the child, the greater the importance the court attaches to the wishes expressed by the child.

I do not foresee any departure from these important principles in the law. However, I would at this stage indicate that, in line with commitments in the Programme for Government, the operation of family law is under active review in my Department. The commitments in the Programme for Government are to reform and modernise certain aspects of family law, and to promote mediation as a means of resolving disputes. Already, in that context, the Legal Aid Board will shortly take on responsibility for the Family Mediation Service following provisions I made for that in the Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2011. My Department is also finalising proposals for a Mediation and Conciliation Bill which will promote a more structured approach to mediation in the legal system.

Legal Aid Service

Simon Harris

Question:

377 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of persons in County Wicklow receiving legal aid; the waiting list in County Wicklow to receive legal aid; the budget allocated to legal aid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29656/11]

I wish to inform the Deputy that an independent body, the Legal Aid Board, is responsible for the number of persons receiving civil legal aid and for matters dealing with the administration of civil legal aid, including waiting lists. However, in order to be helpful to the Deputy, enquires were made with the Board.

I am informed that it is difficult, at a particular point in time, to give an exact figure in respect of the number of persons in County Wicklow, or any other county, receiving civil legal aid provided by the Board. However, in the 12 months to 1 October 2011, I am informed that approximately 361 new applicants were offered an appointment with a solicitor in Wicklow Law Centre and a further 135 applicants were referred to private solicitors on the Board's panels for the purpose of obtaining a legally aided service.

In 2010 legal services were provided by Wicklow Law Centre in 460 cases while 145 cases were referred to private solicitors. As of 1 October 2011 there were 156 applicants at the Law Centre awaiting a first appointment. The current waiting time is approximately five months.

I wish to further inform the Deputy that the Board's grant-in-aid for 2011 is €24.125 m. The grant-in-aid represents close to 91% of the Board's income.

Simon Harris

Question:

378 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will outline the purpose of legal aid; the services provided for under legal aid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29657/11]

I wish to inform the Deputy that the provision of legal aid within this State is split into two separate categories, namely civil legal aid and criminal legal aid.

Civil Legal Aid

The Legal Aid Board is the statutory body charged with providing legal aid in civil law cases. The Board was placed on a statutory footing by the Civil Legal Aid Act, 1995 and is completely independent in its functions. The Act makes provision for the grant by the State of legal aid and advice to persons of insufficient means in civil law cases. The principal function of the Board is set out in the Civil Legal Aid Act 1995 and can be summarised, insofar as the civil legal aid aspect is concerned, as being to provide, within the Board's resources and subject to the other provisions of the Act, legal aid and advice in civil cases to persons who satisfy the requirements of the Act. Applicants for civil legal aid must meet financial eligibility requirements determined by a merits test that is set out in the legislation.

The Civil Legal Aid Act 1995 defines legal aid as "representation by a solicitor of the Board, or a solicitor or barrister engaged by the Board under section 11, in any civil proceedings to which this section applies and includes all such assistance as is usually given by a solicitor and, where appropriate, barrister in contemplation of, ancillary to or in connection with, such proceedings, whether for the purposes of arriving at or giving effect to any settlement in the proceedings or otherwise".

The Act also defines legal advice as "any oral or written advice given by a solicitor of the Board or by a solicitor or barrister engaged by the Board for that purpose"'.

The Deputy might wish to note that a civil matter is included within the scope of legal aid unless it is specifically excluded. The matters that are specifically excluded are as follows:

Defamation

Disputes concerning rights and interests in or over land;

Matters within the jurisdiction of the Small Claims procedure;

Licensing;

Conveyancing;

Election petitions;

Certain matters where the application for legal services is made in a ‘representative' capacity.

Services are provided in the main through a network of law centres spread across the country. In addition services are provided in certain matters through the retention of private solicitors on a fee per case basis.

Criminal Legal Aid

The right to criminal legal aid in Ireland does not stem from a statute but is a constitutional right. The Criminal Justice (Legal Aid) Act 1962 is the primary piece of legislation governing the award of legal aid and is a means of vindicating that right.

The Act provides that free legal aid may be granted, in certain circumstances, for the defence of persons of insufficient means in criminal proceedings. Legal aid is granted in all courts including the District, Circuit and higher Courts. Under the Act, the grant of legal aid entitles the applicant to the services of a solicitor and, in certain circumstances, up to two counsel, in the preparation and conduct of their defence or appeal. It also includes, where appropriate, access to expert witnesses and reports as part of an accused person's defence.

Under the Criminal Justice (Legal Aid) Act 1962, the courts, through the judiciary, are responsible for the granting of legal aid. An applicant for legal aid must establish to the satisfaction of the court that his/her means are insufficient to enable him/her to pay for legal representation him/herself. The court must also be satisfied that by reason of the "gravity of the charge" or "exceptional circumstances", it is essential in the interests of justice that the applicant should have legal aid. I have no function in these matters which are determined by the judiciary.

When a defendant is granted free legal aid the court in question will assign a solicitor from the list of those registered as willing to act under the scheme for sittings of the court in that area. In making the assignment the court must, however, take into consideration the representations, if any, of the accused concerned. In practice this usually results in the assignment of the solicitor of one's own choice.

Security Industry

Simon Harris

Question:

379 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will outline the legal requirement for bouncers and security staff registered to work at licensed premises; the registration process entailed; if these staff may work while their applications are being processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29658/11]

The Private Security Authority is the regulatory body with responsibility for the regulation of the security industry in Ireland. The Authority is an independent body under the aegis of my Department and so I have no involvement in the day to day operations of the Authority.

The Authority has however advised me that all individuals providing a security service as either a door supervisor (licensed premises) or security guard (static) must hold a licence issued by the Authority and must display an identity badge while providing these services. There are currently over 27,300 licensed individuals in the country.

In addition, I am informed that a small number of applicants are permitted to work pending receipt of their licence. These individuals are considered to meet all the requirements of licensing and have been granted permission to work at the request of their employer, pending validation of their applications.

There are currently less than 200 such cases and in all cases, an applicant can only work for the employer on file.

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

380 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding the Croke Park agreement; if he has received implementation plans for this agreement from his Department and each State agency under his remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion he has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29689/11]

Under the Public Service Agreement 2010-2014, detailed action plans have been developed across the Justice Sector to underpin the change and reform process envisaged by the Agreement. The Action Plans were first developed in October 2010 and subsequently revised in January 2011.

The Department and the Agencies under its remit were required to prepare their first detailed report on the progress being made in implementing their Action Plans last May and this formed part of the first annual review of the Agreement undertaken by the Implementation Body. These progress reports have been published on the websites of the bodies concerned.

The second phase of progress reporting on the Agreement is underway at present and updated progress reports from the Justice Sector are due to be submitted for examination to the Implementation Body by end October. As before, the individual reports will be published on the websites of the bodies concerned.

My Department has no responsibility for discussions with the EU/IMF in regard to the Agreement.

Legal Aid Service

John McGuinness

Question:

381 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has assessed the number of applicants seeking services in each of the free legal aid centres; if the number of staff in each centre is sufficient to deal with the demand; if he has identified centres within the service which require further support; if he will explain the reason a person (detail supplied) could not get a legal representative for a court appearance through the centre at Portlaoise, County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29693/11]

I wish to inform the Deputy that under the Civil Legal Aid Act 1995, as passed by the Oireachtas, the Legal Aid Board is independent in the operation of its functions. I have no responsibility for the matters which the Deputy has raised. However, as a courtesy to the Deputy I have obtained from the Board the information sought and am providing it to the Deputy.

At the outset, I wish to clarify for the Deputy that the Legal Aid Board provides ‘legal aid' and not ‘free legal aid'. The vast majority of persons receiving services from the Board pay a small financial contribution. I also wish to clarify that the Board provides services through, inter alia, law centres. There is also an organisation known as FLAC (Free Legal Advice Centres) which is an non-governmental organisation and is not connected to the Board in any way.

I am informed by the Board that there has been a very significant increase in demand for general civil legal aid services in the last number of years and particularly since the economic downturn. In 2007 approximately 10,164 applications for legal services were made. This figure had increased to 17,175 in 2010. The number applying for services in the first six months of this year was almost the same as sought legal services in the whole of 2007. This has given rise to increased waiting times in most geographic areas for matters that are not prioritised. The waiting times in the Legal Aid Board's law centres as of 1 October 2011 and the numbers waiting for a first appointment in each law centre are set out in the table below:

Maximum Waiting Times and Numbers Waiting as at 01/10/2011

Law Centre

Max. waiting time

Number waiting

Blanchardstown

3

67

Brunswick Street

6

214

Clondalkin

8

229

Finglas

5

104

Gardiner Street

6

207

Medical Negligence Unit

3

21

Tallaght

11

202

Cork, Popes Quay

4

241

Cork, South Mall

6

259

Cavan

7

108

Clare

3

170

Donegal

3

108

Galway

4

145

Kerry

3

95

Kildare

8

210

Kilkenny

5

273

Laois

7

256

Limerick

2

87

Longford

5

103

Louth

0

0

Mayo

6

133

Meath

4

138

Monaghan

3

87

Offaly

4

91

Sligo

5

138

Tipperary

10

205

Waterford

5

131

Westmeath

5

149

Wexford

5

255

Wicklow

5

156

Total

4,582

The Board monitors waiting times closely and tries to take steps to address particular issues. However it is not always possible to address specific spikes in waiting times. Prioritised matters continue to get an immediate or near immediate service. Prioritised cases include those involving domestic violence, children at risk of going into care, child abduction and critical dates that are close to expiry. Cases are not prioritised simply because there is a court date pending.

I can also inform the Deputy that the Board, by taking a range of measures, is keeping all of its services under review with a view to ensuring that its resources are used as efficiently and as effectively as possible. This includes greater use of the private practitioner scheme, an ‘advice only' service where applicants are likely to have to wait in excess of four months for a substantive appointment, the integration of the delivery of all services, the introduction of a pilot integrated mediation service involving the Board and the Family Mediation Service, the creation of specialist units for medical negligence and child-care services, the development of a new legal case management system, the use of a very limited exemption from the recruitment moratorium in relation to a small number of temporary front-line service delivery positions and the utilisation of (i) a work placement scheme in co-ordination with FÁS, (ii) a small number of solicitors who have sought experience on a voluntary basis and (iii) the new National Internship Scheme.

Finally, I wish to inform the Deputy that as the Legal Aid Board is a statutory, independent body, any decision to grant or refuse legal aid is a matter for the Board. Furthermore, the solicitor/client relationship is protected by privilege in accordance with the terms of section 32 of the Civil Legal Aid Act 1995 and therefore the Board does not provide information to third parties regarding a person who may or may not be a client of the Board. I can however advise the Deputy that a person who is refused legal aid may appeal this decision to an Appeal Committee which is made up of non-executive members of the Board.

Interdepartmental Committees

John O'Mahony

Question:

382 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will extend the current mandate of the interdepartmental committee to establish the facts of State involvement with the Magdalen laundries to the Bethany Home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29727/11]

I can inform the Deputy that the inter-departmental committee is charged with establishing the facts of the State's involvement, clarifying any State interaction with the Magdalen Laundries, and with producing a narrative detailing such interaction. There are presently no plans to extend its brief beyond those institutions.

Immigration Service

Eoghan Murphy

Question:

383 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his proposals and recommendations with regard to reforming the business permission scheme to an enterprise and investment visa. [29753/11]

As I informed the Deputy in my reply to Parliamentary Question No 131 on 6 October 2011, I am currently considering recommendations for a new immigration scheme for entrepreneurship and investment.

Liquor Licensing Laws

Jim Daly

Question:

384 Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding a miscellaneous provisions Bill (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29754/11]

Section 17 of the recently-enacted Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2011 provides statutory support for Codes of Practice dealing with standards for the display, sale, supply, advertising promotion or marketing of intoxicating liquor. Such Codes may be drawn up by the Minister for Justice and Equality following appropriate consultation or, if a draft Code has been drawn up by some other body, be approved of and published by the Minister.

While breach of such a Code by a licensee will not be an offence under licensing law, failure to comply with a Code's provisions will constitute a ground on which an objection to renewal of the licence in question may be lodged. These provisions form part of the Government's strategy to promote compliance with licensing law and to combat alcohol-related harm.

My Department is currently consulting with representative bodies in the licensed trade on the drawing up of future Codes under section 17 and the matters to be covered in them.

Electoral Legislation

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

385 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he is satisfied that the electoral law in relation to election material which states that it is an offence to print posters, leaflets and so on without an imprint is being enforced; if there have been any prosecutions in relation to this; if any candidate has not received a refund of election expenses for failing to have the imprint; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29766/11]

I have sought a report from An Garda Síochána in relation to matters within the question that may fall within their remit. The Deputy will appreciate that the legislation for the registration of electors and the conduct of elections is a matter for my colleague the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

386 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29784/11]

The estimated savings that would be generated if pensions paid to retired members of An Garda Síochána were capped at €35,000 amounts to €7.6 million per annum. The estimated savings from other pension payments made by my Department, subject to a cap of €35,000, would be €200,000. These estimates take no account of the reduction in income tax and other statutory deductions that would arise.

Citizenship Applications

Sean Conlan

Question:

387 Deputy Seán Conlan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding an application for naturalisation in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29810/11]

I am advised by the Citizenship Division of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that a valid application for a certificate of naturalisation was received from the person referred to by the Deputy in July, 2009.

The application is at an advanced stage of processing and will be finalised as expeditiously as possible.

The granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is a privilege and an honour which confers certain rights and entitlements not only within the State but also at European Union level and it is important that appropriate procedures are in place to preserve the integrity of the process.

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.

Proposed Legislation

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

388 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the progress that has been made in reforming upward-only rent review clauses. [28875/11]

As the Deputy will be aware, the Programme for Government indicates that legislation will be introduced to end upward only rent reviews for existing business leases. In order to progress that commitment outline proposals were forwarded to the Attorney General for examination and development.

I am giving further consideration to those proposals in the light of the most recent advices of the Attorney General.

Garda Stations

Tom Fleming

Question:

389 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will refrain from closing any rural Garda station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29878/11]

Niall Collins

Question:

397 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will confirm and give a commitment that no Garda stations in County Limerick will be closed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30053/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 389 and 397 together.

I wish to make it clear at this juncture that no decisions have been made in relation to the closure of Garda stations. The Commissioner is currently carrying out a review of the entire Garda organisation in the context of ensuring that the Force will be in a position to match the deployment of resources to its policing commitments as effectively as possible.

Clearly, an examination of the opening hours and in some cases the viability of Garda stations will form part of this review. The Commissioner may have to consider in appropriate cases whether a better policing service could be delivered to a local community by having Gardaí out on patrol instead of in a station. I look forward to receiving the Commissioner's proposals, which will be aimed at maximising the efficiency of the Garda Síochána, and prioritising the resources available to operational front-line policing services.

Visa Applications

Michelle Mulherin

Question:

390 Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reasons for the refusal of a visa application in respect of a person (details supplied); and the next step they should take. [29937/11]

The visa application referred to by the Deputy was received in the Visa Office, Dublin on the 5 August 2011. It was refused by the Visa Officer on the 4 October 2011 for the following reasons:

The finances shown were deemed to be insufficient;

The Visa Officer had concerns about the authenticity of documents provided by the applicant, specifically the marriage certificate;

The Visa Officer had concerns that the granting of the visa sought may result in a cost in respect of public funds and public resources;

The applicant had not provided evidence of a relationship being in existence prior to the visa application/marriage.

As is the case with all refused visa applications, the refusal decision and the reasons for that decision were sent by way of letter to the applicant. In addition, and in common with all visa applications refused in Dublin, the refusal decision and the reasons for that decision were posted promptly on-line (in a format confidential to the applicant). It is open to the person concerned to submit an appeal within two months of the date of refusal, in this case before the 4 December 2011. Guidelines on the visa appeals process are available on the website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service, www.inis.gov.ie.

I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual Immigration cases may also 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.

Citizenship Applications

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

391 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the current or expected position in relation to an application for naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29961/11]

I am advised by the Citizenship Division of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that a valid application for a certificate of naturalisation was received from the person referred to by the Deputy in February, 2010.

The application is currently being processed 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 as expeditiously as possible.

The granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is a privilege and an honour which confers certain rights and entitlements not only within the State but also at European Union level and it is important that appropriate procedures are in place to preserve the integrity of the process.

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.

Anti-Social Behaviour

Seán Kenny

Question:

392 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding anti-social behaviour at a location (details supplied) in Dublin 13; if this location will receive additional Garda patrols; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29987/11]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the area referred to is within Coolock Garda District. Local Garda management is aware of difficulties being experienced by local residents through persons gathering at the location referred to. One incident relating to public disorder was reported to date in 2011. This matter was responded to promptly and dealt with by Gardaí from Coolock Garda Station.

I am further informed that the area is the subject of regular patrols by uniform and plain clothes personnel, including the Community Policing Unit, Mountain Bike Unit and local Detective and Drug Unit personnel, supplemented as required by the Divisional Crime Task Force and Traffic Corps personnel.

Local Garda management closely monitors and keeps under review patrols and other operational strategies in place, in conjunction with crime trends and policing needs of the communities in the area, to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public.

Current policing plans in the area are designed to address issues of crime and public order offences. Community policing is a central feature and core value of policing policy, and current policing strategies are predicated on the prevention of crime, public order offences and anti-social behaviour.

Garda Transport

Seán Kenny

Question:

393 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the amount spent on fuel and maintenance for aircraft in the Garda air support unit for the years 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and to date in 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29988/11]

The Garda Air Support Unit currently consists of one fixed wing Britten Norman Defender aircraft and two EC135 helicopters.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that the cost of maintenance for the fixed wing aircraft and the cost of fuel for the Garda Air Support Unit as a whole is borne by the Air Corps. The cost of maintaining both EC135 helicopters is borne by the Garda Vote.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the cost of maintenance for both EC135 helicopters for the years requested, including support by the hour, purchase of equipment, replacement parts and hire of equipment is as outlined below.

Year

2007

1,064,601

2008

1,348,373

2009

1,669,558

2010

1,951,123

2011 (January-September)

1,226,148

Garda Deployment

Seán Kenny

Question:

394 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí by rank in the Garda water unit; the number of boats in the unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29989/11]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are currently three Sergeants and thirteen Gardaí allocated to the Garda Water Unit. The unit has two patrol boats, four rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) and six inflatable boats at its disposal.

Garda Vetting

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

395 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding an application for Garda clearance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will expedite the application. [29995/11]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that responses to two vetting applications in respect of the person to whom the Deputy refers were issued to the registered organisations involved on 6 October 2011 and 12 October 2011 respectively. There are no other outstanding vetting applications on hand with the Vetting Unit in respect of the person concerned.

Charities Regulatory Authority

Tony McLoughlin

Question:

396 Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the charities regulation authority has been established under the Charities Act 2009 and if it is operational; if it is operational, the criteria for reporting; and if a member of the public can report on administrative mishandling which is causing funds to be used for a purpose other than that for which they were donated. [30051/11]

The Charities Act 2009 provides for an integrated system of mandatory registration and proportionate regulation and supervision of the charities sector in Ireland. The various sections of the Charities Act are subject to implementation through commencement orders. A number of sections of the Act have already been commenced. Those sections providing for mandatory registration and reporting have not yet been commenced.

The Deputy may also be aware that responsibility for the Charities Act transferred to my Department in May 2011. Full implementation of the Act on a statutory basis, which would require the establishment of a new regulatory authority, would of course have new cost implications for the Exchequer. This is a matter which I am considering in the context of the review of expenditure currently being undertaken in my Department and, indeed, in all Government Departments and Agencies.

Irish charities may take a number of legal forms. For example, some charities are companies limited by guarantee while other charities are trusts. They are, therefore, governed by the relevant legislative or other provisions governing such entities. Incorporated charities, for example, are subject to the provisions of company law and are generally required to provide information to the Companies Registration Office under the Companies Acts, which can be accessed by the public. Such charities would also be subject to scrutiny by the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement. Charities that take the form of a trust are subject to the provisions of trust law. And, of course, any business entity is subject to general criminal and fraud legislation.

Question No. 397 answered with Question No. 389.

Court Proceedings

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

398 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding allegations of corruption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30062/11]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the matters referred to relate to civil proceedings which are before the courts. The Deputy will appreciate that it would therefore be inappropriate for me to comment further.

Garda Deployment

Seán Kyne

Question:

399 Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Justice and Equality, further to Parliamentary Question No. 385 of 11 October 2011, if he will confirm the locations across Galway city and county of the 48 members of the Garda traffic corps. [30127/11]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that while the strength of the Garda Traffic Corps in Galway was 48 at the end of August, it was 41 on 30 September 2011. The Deputy will appreciate that Garda strengths fluctuate due to transfers, promotions retirements etc. The stations to which these 41 Gardaí are assigned are set out in the table hereunder.

Garda Stations

No.

Tuam Garda Station

11

Loughrea Garda Station

9

Galway Garda Station

11

Oranmore Garda Station

9

Clifden Garda Station

1

Total

41

Garda Operations

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

400 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the amount it is costing the Exchequer to supply the security measures currently in place for the facilitation of the Smithfield horse fair, Dublin, in terms of Garda officials; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30148/11]

The event referred to by the Deputy takes place on the first Sunday of every month, with the events in March and September attracting the largest amount of patrons, including overseas visitors.

The Garda authorities advise me that establishing the exact cost associated with policing the event would take a disproportionate amount of Garda time and resources. They estimate that the approximate cost for policing the Smithfield Fair each month is €4,000 except for the months of March and September where, due to an increase in patrons attending, the approximate cost for policing the Smithfield Fair is estimated at €7,500.

I am further advised that local Garda management are satisfied there are sufficient Gardaí deployed on the first Sunday each month to police the event.

Legal Aid Board

Tom Fleming

Question:

401 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will review a decision of the Legal Aid Board to refuse a legal aid certificate to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry. [30161/11]

I wish to inform the Deputy that any decision to grant or refuse a legal aid certificate is a matter for the Legal Aid Board which is a statutory, independent body that provides legal aid and advice to persons of limited means. Furthermore, the solicitor/client relationship is protected by privilege in accordance with the terms of section 32 of the Civil Legal Aid Act 1995 and therefore the Board does not provide information to third parties regarding a person who may or may not be a client of the Board.

However, I can advise the Deputy that any person who is refused a legal aid certificate may appeal this decision to an Appeal Committee which is made up of non-executive members of the Board.

Appointments to State Boards

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

402 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the saving to the State if all State agency board members’ annual payments were rescinded and instead board membership was awarded without remuneration. [30259/11]

I wish to inform the Deputy that for the purposes of answering her question I am listing the Boards under the aegis of my Department which have responsibility for discharging the normal functions of a Board charged with the oversight and governance of statutory agencies. These are as follows: the Courts Service Board, the Private Security Authority, the Equality Authority, the Property Registration Authority, the Legal Aid Board and the National Disability Authority.

A gross total of €570,713 would accrue in savings if Board members' fees were rescinded and Board membership was not remunerated.

The proportion of fees allocated to Chairpersons of the relevant Boards is €65,408 with the remaining amount of €505,305 paid to ordinary members. The figures are provided for a period of a full year and on the basis that the relevant Board has full membership and is not carrying any vacancies.

The Deputy might further wish to note that, as the figures provided above are gross figures, all Board members would be further liable to normal tax deductions in respect of their fees and that the savings to the State would be much less than the gross figures.

Defence Forces Training

Michael McCarthy

Question:

403 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide a breakdown of the various courses, visits and competitions attended by members of the Defence Forces which led to costs of €1.3 million that occurred in 2010, including the name, location and date of each occasion in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29611/11]

Michael McCarthy

Question:

404 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Defence the number of Defence Forces personnel currently attending third level courses which are being fully or partly paid by his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of the courses being attended by personnel, including the name and duration of course, the name of the institution and the annual cost incurred by his Department by course; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29614/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 403 and 404 together.

Training and Education are vital activities in all Military organisations. Training enables Defence Forces personnel to achieve their required standard of operational effectiveness. Over the past decade the Defence Forces have undertaken more challenging roles, in particular on overseas service and have also introduced new highly technical equipment. External Education both at Universities and Institutes at home and abroad, fulfils Defence Forces requirements by providing education and expertise, which cannot be delivered within the organisation and which ensures that Defence Force personnel attain the required level of academic and professional qualifications.

Training and Education is under constant review within the Defence Forces. This is to ensure that the Defence Forces provide an effective highly trained force capable of fulfilling all roles assigned by Government, while also utilising the most efficient and economic use of resources.

It was not possible to provide the detailed information sought by the Deputy in the time available. My Department is currently seeking to compile the relevant data and I will provide the information directly to the Deputy once it comes to hand.

Army Equitation School

Michael McCarthy

Question:

405 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Defence the number of new horses that have been purchased or leased by his Department for the Army Equitation School since 2006; the cost of each individual purchase or lease and the number of horses which are now property of the school in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29621/11]

The Army Equitation School has in place a Horse Purchase Board consisting of the Officer Commanding the Equitation School, his Deputy, an official from the Department of Defence and a retired Officer Commanding the Equitation School. The School arranges for the Horse Purchase Board to inspect and assess horses that are presented by breeders and producers with a view to either purchase or lease. Details of all purchases and leases of new horses since 2006 are set out in a tabular statement. The total number of horses currently owned or leased is 39.

Year

No. of horses purchased

Cost of each new purchase

No. of horses leased

Cost per annum of each new lease

Duration of Lease Payments

2006

4

€70,000€125,000€18,000€32,500

2

€40,000€10,000

1 yr1 yr

2007

3

€55,020€67,500€24,000

NIL

2008

4

€19,000€67,500€45,000€24,000

3

€10,000€17,000€6,000

Still ongoing2 yrs2 yrs

2009

2

€30,000€71,958

NIL

2010

5

€25,000€12,000€14,000€65,000€65,000

1

Nil (Free Lease)

Still ongoing

2011 to date

1

€100,000

1

€29,000

Still ongoing

Michael McCarthy

Question:

406 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide a breakdown of travel costs incurred by members of the Army Equitation School on an annual basis since 2006 while travelling to national and international horse shows; the specific costs incurred on each trip, including accommodation, food, and other subsistence, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29623/11]

The mission of the Army Equitation School, as assigned to it on its establishment in 1926, is to promote the Irish horse abroad through the participation in international competition. The school has discharged this task with considerable distinction down through the years by competing in national and international events in show-jumping and three day eventing. Details of the travel and other costs incurred by members of the Army Equitation School on an annual basis since 2006, whilst travelling to national and international competitions, are set out in the tabular statement below. For each year, the total cost is broken down in the manner in which the data is recorded by my Department.

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

Jan to Sep 2011

Motor Travel

€13,829.98

€15,483.09

€10,694.92

€1,539.76

Nil

Nil

Public Transport

Nil

€324.82

€107.32

€83.90

€765.40

Nil

Taxi

€228.00

€349.71

€552.51

€139.21

€150.59

€78.03

Home Subsistence

€20,769.48

€31,625.37

€18,986.78

€15,387.01

€17,780.52

€11,227.39

Foreign Subsistence

€97,956.38

€133,710.35

€170,732.22

€86,639.25

€104,411.39

€61,917.54

Incidentals*

€34,616.22

€25,387.46

€70,882.26

€26,871.11

€26,415.58

€11,850.32

Total

€167,400.06

€206,880.80

€271,956.01

€130,660.24

€149,523.48

€85,073.28

*Please note that incidentals could include for example vouched costs for accommodation and food.

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

407 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the Croke Park agreement; if he has received implementation plans for this agreement from his Department and each State agency under his remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion he has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29682/11]

Under the Public Service Agreement 2010-2014, detailed action plans have been developed by the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces to underpin the change and reform process envisaged by the Agreement. The Action Plans were first developed in October 2010 and subsequently revised in January 2011. Public service bodies in each sector were required to prepare their first detailed report on the progress being made in implementing their Action Plans last May and the reports provided by the Department and the Defence Forces formed part of the first annual review of the Agreement undertaken by the Implementation Body.

The second phase of progress reporting on the Agreement is underway at present and my Department is currently preparing progress reports for submission to the Implementation Body during October. These reports will be examined by the Implementation Body and published on its website (www.implementationbody.gov.ie). It is expected that all Action Plans will need to be revisited later in the year when decisions have been taken by Government on the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure.

The Government has indicated that the Public Service Agreement represents a key enabler to meeting its fiscal targets under its obligations under the EU/IMF Joint Programme of Assistance. The quarterly returns made to date by the Government under the Programme on public service numbers and the paybill have indicated that the number of public servants is falling and we are on track to meet the existing target of 302,000 public service posts by end 2011. Similarly, the Exchequer pay bill return for the first six months is in line with the 2011 pay bill targets.

The Government has indicated that it wishes to honour the commitments given in the Public Service Agreement. However, this will only be possible if the Agreement is implemented in full.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

408 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Defence the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29777/11]

The only non-commercial State bodies in this context under my Department's aegis are the Army Pensions Board and Civil Defence Board. The payment of public service pensions to any former civil service employees who worked with those bodies would be a matter for the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. Any savings from capping such pensions on the basis referred to would therefore be included in the figures already provided by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform in his reply to the Deputy in Question No. 297 on the 4 October 2011. While the Permanent Defence Force is not a State agency in the usual meaning of the term, the savings if military pensions were capped at €35,000 a year are estimated at some €6.0 million annually. This reflects the impact of the Public Service Pension Reduction under the provisions introduced by the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2010 from 1 January 2011. It should be borne in mind that the Exchequer would only receive a proportion of those savings in net terms, as income tax and other statutory deductions such as the universal social charge would be foregone if such a measure were implemented.

Army Barracks

John Halligan

Question:

409 Deputy John Halligan asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the adverse effect the uncertainty regarding the potential closure of army barracks across the country is having on the soldiers who will be directly affected; if he will confirm the position in relation to these rumoured closures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29954/11]

As of now, no decision has been made by the Government on the future of any military installation. The issue of the closure of barracks no longer required for operational reasons to effect necessary savings will, however, be considered shortly by Government. Various commissions, reports and studies back to the 1990s identified barrack closures as a fundamental requirement for improving military effectiveness and efficiency. Since 1998 a total of ten barracks have been closed under two barrack consolidation programmes. A total of €84.98 million has been realised from the disposal of six of these barracks and part of another. The monies received from the sales of such properties have been reinvested in equipment and infrastructure for the Defence Forces.

The priority must be to ensure that all decisions about resource allocation are focused on maximizing the capabilities of the Defence Forces and ensuring their continued operational excellence. I am also anxious to ensure, in so far as is possible, that the Government is not compelled by fiscal and budgetary constraints to effect any substantial reduction in the current number of personnel in the Defence Forces.

I regret that, prior to this matter being considered by Government in the context of the overall review of expenditure, uncertainty has arisen as to the future of barracks and that this is a cause of concern to members of the Defence Forces and family members. This unfortunately is a consequence of the appalling financial legacy inherited by the Government and my obligation as Minister is to fully engage in the review that is being undertaken to ensure that this State fully meets its obligations under the EU/ECB/IMF agreement concluded by the previous Government in November 2010 and to comply with our obligation to substantially reduce public expenditure.

Defence Forces Personnel

Seán Kenny

Question:

410 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Defence the number of female recruits currently in the Defence Forces at each rank above the rank of Commandant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29994/11]

As at 30 September 2011, the latest date for which figures are available, there were 145 female officers serving in the Permanent Defence Force. There is one female officer above the rank of Commandant who holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. There are 23 female officers at the rank of Commandant, 67 at the rank of Captain and 54 at the rank of Lieutenant. There are 421 females (including Cadets) enlisted in the Permanent Defence Force. There are 3 Company Sergeants, 1 Company Quarter Master Sergeant, 38 Sergeants, 145 Corporals, 230 Privates and 4 Cadets. The total number of females serving in the Permanent Defence Force on 30th September 2011 was 566. The Government is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for men and women throughout the Defence Forces and to the full participation by women in all aspects of Defence Forces activities. Unlike many other national armed forces, the Defence Forces have no restrictions as regards the assignment of men or women to the full range of operational and administrative duties. All promotions and career courses are open to both genders on merit.

In 2007, the Department received the report of a TNS/MRBI study it had commissioned, titled "Retention and Recruitment of Women in the Defence Forces". This research was commissioned with a view to identifying areas where action could be taken to maximise the number of women applicants to the Defence Forces, hence increasing the number joining. The question of retention was also studied.

The results of the research were, on balance, positive. Three-quarters of serving females agreed that the Defence Forces are a good place to work. In addition there was a very high level of satisfaction (70% -80%) expressed as regards the issues of job security, pay and benefits and the variety of work on offer.

The recommendations of the report have been implemented and the challenges identified therein continue to be addressed.

The Defence Forces prides itself on providing a gender neutral working environment. Policies on equality are being constantly communicated to all ranks. The military authorities are alert and vigilant to this issue and are committed to addressing this matter in a continuing and proactive manner.

Appointments to State Boards

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

411 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Defence the saving to the State if all State agency board members’ annual payments were rescinded and instead board membership was awarded without remuneration. [30254/11]

The boards under the aegis of my Department are the Civil Defence Board, the Board of Coiste an Asgard and the Army Pensions Board. Legislation is currently being drafted to dissolve the Civil Defence Board and transfer the functions of the Board back into the Department of Defence.

In the context of settling the Estimates for the Department of Defence for 2010, the Government decided that the national sail training scheme operated by Coiste an Asgard would be discontinued as recommended in the Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure. As a result, no funding was provided in 2010 or 2011. No appointments have been made since that decision was taken and the Board will be dissolved shortly.

There is no remuneration attached to membership of the Civil Defence Board or the Board of Coiste an Asgard.

The Army Pensions Board has three members, a chairperson, a civilian doctor, and an officer of the Army Medical Corps. The chairperson and the civilian doctor are entitled to annual fees of €7,618 and €5,079 respectively.

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

412 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Defence the number of persons who hold more than one State agency board position across the aegis of all Departments; their total remuneration; the number of board memberships said persons hold and their names in tabular form; and if such information is collated. [30263/11]

The boards under the aegis of my Department are the Civil Defence Board, the Army Pensions Board and the Board of Coiste an Asgard. Members of these boards who hold positions on other State boards are set out in tabular form below.

Name

No of Memberships Held

Board under aegis of Department of Defence

Other State Board

Mr. Tom Harrington

2

Army Pensions Board

Consumer Foods Board (An Bord Bia)

Mr. Noel Ryan

2

Coiste an Asgard

Ordnance Survey Ireland

In his capacity as chairperson of the Army Pension Board, Mr Tom Harrington is entitled to annual fees of €7,619.

There is no remuneration attached to membership of the Civil Defence Board or the Board of Coiste an Asgard.

Departmental Funding

Tom Hayes

Question:

413 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if funding will be provided to the Tipperary Association for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (details supplied). [29597/11]

An application for ex-gratia funding has been received from the organisation in question. Provision of ex-gratia assistance this year is subject to the availability of funds and the application will be considered in this context and having regard to competing claims for financial assistance submitted by other animal welfare bodies.

Proposed Legislation

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

414 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to amend the Control of Horses Act to ensure the proper control of horses on the open road; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29888/11]

The Control of Horses Act, 1996 was enacted to address problems caused by wandering horses in urban and rural areas and it contains a comprehensive range of measures aimed at controlling horses. Local authorities have extensive powers under the Act. Section 46 of the Act provides for a local authority to make by-laws for the control and welfare of horses in the whole or part of its functional area. By-laws made under this section may specify the manner in which a horse is to be kept under control by a person having charge or control of it in a public place, including on the open road or other place so as to prevent injury or nuisance to persons or damage to property.

Calafoirt agus Céanna

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

415 D’fhiafraigh Peadar Tóibín den Aire Talmhaíochta, Bia agus Mara an bhfuil straitéis aige chun oibriú leis na páirtithe leasmhara chun togra Chalafort Ros an Mhíl, Contae na Gaillimhe, a chur chun cinn. [30183/11]

Ceann de shé Lárionad Cuain Iascaigh a bhfuil mo Roinn freagrach astu is ea Lárionad Cuain Iascaigh Ros an Mhíl. Tuigim go maith an méid uathúil agus luachmhar a chaithfidh Lárionad Cuain Iascaigh Ros an Mhíl a chur le tionscal na hiascaireachta agus leis an timpeallacht eacnamaíoch níos leithne.

D'ainneoin an timpeallacht eacnamaíoch reatha ina bhfuilimid ag feidhmiú, lean mo Roinn de mhaoiniú a chur ar fáil le haghaidh oibreacha cothabhála, forbartha, agus uasghrádaithe ag Lárionad Cuain Iascaigh Ros an Mhíl mar chuid de Chlár Forbartha mo Roinne sa bhliain reatha um Lárionaid Chuain Iascaigh agus um Bonneagar Cósta.

Fáiltíonn mo Roinn roimh dhearcthaí agus tuairimí na bpáirtithe leasmhara go léir ag Lárionad Cuain Iascaigh Ros an Mhíl agus go deimhin d'éascaigh sí Fóram d'Úsáideoirí Cuanta ag Lárionad Cuain Iascaigh Ros an Mhíl ar an gCéadaoin 12 Deireadh Fómhair 2011. Is deis uathúil é an Fóram d'Úsáideoirí Cuanta do na páirtithe leasmhara éagsúla chun a ndearcthaí a chur in iúl agus chomh maith chun faisnéis ábhartha cothrom le dáta maidir leis an gcuan a chloisteáil iad féin.

Grant Payments

Brendan Griffin

Question:

416 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if disadvantaged area payment will be awarded in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29476/11]

An application under the 2011 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 6 May 2011, processing of which has recently been completed, thereby allowing payment to issue on 18 October 2011.

Departmental Agencies

Dominic Hannigan

Question:

417 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, further to Parliamentary Question No. 143 of 6 October 2011, the number of meetings that have been held about the transfer of control over aquaculture in the Foyle to the Loughs Agency; the number of persons involved in his Department programme to transfer control; the length of time these persons have been involved; the other agencies and other Departments involved; the role of each of the other agencies and Departments in the process of transferring management control to the Loughs Agency; if a draft agreement has been written to grant the Loughs Agency control over aquaculture in the Foyle; if not, the timescale for such an agreement and the current timetable for the transfer of power; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29518/11]

My Department has participated with other stakeholders in at least eight meetings to discuss the issues involved in the proposal to devolve aquaculture licensing to the Loughs Agency.

A range of Departmental and Agency staff are involved in addressing the scientific, technical and policy elements. It would not be possible to provide a breakdown of the portion of each official's time that is being given to this matter.

The key Departments and Agencies involved, in addition to my own, are the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, the Marine Institute, Bord Iascaigh Mhara, and in view of the very important jurisdictional issues, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

My Department continues to make every effort to expedite the conclusion of a draft agreement, but it would not be appropriate to put a definitive deadline on these considerations at this time.

Departmental Staff

Patrick Deering

Question:

418 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of veterinary surgeons employed in each district veterinary office; the cost of same; and the details of their job specification. [29520/11]

There are 138 veterinarians currently employed by my Department throughout the regional office network and the numbers of veterinarians at each location is outlined in the table below.

In addition there are a further 16 whole-time veterinary inspectors (WTVIs) employed by the Department on a fee-per-test basis whose sole function is to carry out TB and Brucellosis testing.

Veterinary staff of the Department maintain the high standards of veterinary public health, animal health and animal welfare vital for Irish Agriculture. They play a vital role in the safeguarding of public health, the prevention and control of animal diseases, in the supervision of animal welfare standards and the certification of animals and animal products for export.

The 2010 salary cost of both veterinary staff working in the regional offices and WTVIs was €16,815,460. The salary cost from 1 January 2011 to 13 October 2011 was €12,912,032.

Regional office location

Number of veterinarians

Castlebar

7

Cavan Town

13

Clonakilty

6

Cork City

9

Drumshanbo

10

Enniscorthy

11

Galway City

7

Limerick City

12

Naas

11

Navan

8

Raphoe

5

Roscommon Town

4

Tipperary Town

11

Tralee

5

Tullamore

10

Waterford City

9

Total

138

Milk Quota

Michael Creed

Question:

419 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will clarify the operation of the milk quota trading scheme with regard to specific provision therein for smaller producers; the volume of milk expected to be traded in the current round; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29529/11]

The Milk Quota Trading Scheme is run twice annually in respect of each Co-op collection area, and is comprised of a priority pool and a market exchange. A maximum of thirty per cent of the quota offered for sale is sold into the priority pool at a maximum price. This pool of quota is allotted to eligible applicants under one of four priority categories. The remainder is traded through an exchange at prices determined by sellers and buyers themselves.

Quota from the Priority Pool is allotted to the four priority categories in the following order of preference:

Successors

Producers with "lost lease" entitlements

New and recent entrants to dairying under 35 years of age

Category 1 producers, and new and recent entrants to dairying over 35 years of age.

Category 1 producers are those with a permanent quota of less than 350, 000 litres, and while they may from time to time access quota as Successor or Lost Lease applicants, the majority qualify under category 4 above.

The quota remaining in the priority pool after the applicants in the Successor and Lost Lease categories have been catered for is divided between categories 3 and 4 in a ratio of 3:2. In the event that a priority category request for quota is not satisfied from the Priority Pool, the balance of the bid is placed on the Exchange.

As the processing of applications in the current scheme is at an early stage, I am not in a position to comment on the volumes of milk expected to be traded. I intend to announce the results of the scheme in late November. I can, however, confirm that the number of applications received from buyers has increased by approximately 50% since the last scheme while the number of applications received from sellers has decreased marginally.

Grant Payments

Marcella Corcoran Kennedy

Question:

420 Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a person (details supplied) in County Offaly will receive payment under the agri-environment options scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29557/11]

The person named was approved for participation in the Agri-Environment Options Scheme with effect from the 1 September 2010.

Under the EU Regulations governing the 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, while the application of the person named was also randomly selected for an on farm inspection. During these checks a discrepancy was discovered in respect of one parcel listed on the application of the person named. Officials in my Department have been in contact with the person named and the parcel in question is being re-digitised following which the application will be processed for payment.

Heather Humphreys

Question:

421 Deputy Heather Humphreys asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the delays involved in the digitisation of maps for farmers who are awaiting their disadvantaged area payments; his plans to alleviate this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29562/11]

I again wish to state categorically that there are no delays in payments to farmers under either the Single Farm Payment Scheme or the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme. In the case of the SFP, the earliest payment date under the governing EU rules is 1 December, while in respect of DAS there is no regulatory payment date — however, it is generally recognised and indeed acknowledged in the Farmers' Charter, that a payment target of late September of the year in question is the most realistic.

I can assure the Deputy, and the wider farming community, that my Department is committed to allocating such resources as is necessary to ensure that the essential digitisation of applicants' maps onto the Department's Land Parcel Identification System (LPIS) and the processing of payments are proceeding as quickly as possible . However, I must emphasise that any failings or shortcomings in LPIS would leave the Department open to the very real risk of significant fines. I am not prepared to take such a risk, nor will I compromisethe value of direct payments to Irish farmers .

In the case of the Single Farm Payment, it should be remembered that, while the earliest payment date provided for under EU rules is 1 December, I am acutely aware of the significance to the wider rural economy of the Single Payment. Therefore earlier this year, I successfully sought the approval of the Commissioner to have advance payments made as and from 17 October. This is the earliest possible legal date for making payments, being the start of the new EU financial year.

Following this agreement to my request for an advance payment of the SFP, I set a very demanding schedule of payments for the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme and the Single Payment Scheme, with payment of DAS scheduled for 22 September, the 50% advance of the SFP scheduled for 17 October and the 50% balance of the SFP scheduled for 1 December. I am pleased to say that the DAS payments commenced on target, as did the advance payments for the SFP. In all cases, my Department will continue to make multiple payment runs, under both schemes, on a weekly basis, to pay farmers as their applications become fully processed and cleared .

I fully appreciate the value and importance of these schemes to Irish farmers and remain committed to ensuring that the maximum numbers are paid at the earliest possible date, mindful, of course, of the over-riding necessity to ensure compliance with the governing EU requirements. I note that Ireland continues to be among the very first countries throughout the EU to be in a position to make such payments and perhaps sight should not be lost of this fact.

Michael Creed

Question:

422 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the reason for the delay in awarding a disadvantaged area payment in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29564/11]

An application under the 2011 Single Payment/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 13 May 2011. On processing of this application, an over-claim was identified on one of the land parcels listed. The person named has been written to in this regard and, on receipt of a satisfactory reply, the application will be further processed, with a view to payments under both Schemes issuing as soon as possible thereafter.

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

423 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding a disadvantaged area scheme payment in respect of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29590/11]

An application under the 2011 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 11 May 2011, processing of which has recently been completed, thereby allowing payment to issue on 18 October 2011.

Pat Breen

Question:

424 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a disadvantaged area payment will be awarded in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29612/11]

An application under the 2011 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 11 May 2011, processing of which has recently been completed, thereby allowing payment to issue on 7 October 2011.

Pat Breen

Question:

425 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a disadvantaged area aid payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29616/11]

An application under the 2011 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 11 May 2011. Payments under the 2011 Single Payment Scheme and Disadvantaged Areas Scheme have commenced nationally on 17 October 2011 and 21 September 2011 respectively.

The processing of the application of the person named has recently been completed and payments under both Schemes will issue shortly.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

426 Deputy Paul J. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when an area-based payment will be awarded in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties caused by the delay in such payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29617/11]

An application under the 2011 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 29 April 2011, processing of which has recently been completed, thereby allowing payment to issue on 18 October 2011.

John O'Mahony

Question:

427 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a person (details supplied) will receive their single farm payment for 2010 and 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29622/11]

The person named submitted 2010 and 2011 applications for both the Single Payment Scheme and Disadvantaged Areas Scheme on 17 May 2010 and 11 May 2011 respectively. The person named also incurred a penalty under the REPS 3 Scheme. The applicant appealed this penalty. However, the original penalty was upheld. My Department has deducted the amount due arising from the penalty from a number of payments due to the applicant including a REPS payment of 30 December 2010, a 2010 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme payment on 26 January 2011, a 2010 Single Payment Scheme payment on 27 January 2011 and a 2011 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme payment on 21 September 2011. The penalty has now been deducted in full. All outstanding monies due under the 2010 Single Payment Scheme were paid to the person named, after the deduction of the aforementioned penalty, on 16 December 2010 and 11 October 2011 respectively.

All outstanding monies due under the 2011 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme were paid to the applicants on 21 September 2011. The 50% advance payment of the 2011 Single Payment Scheme was issued to the person named on 17 October 2011.

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

428 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding the Croke Park agreement; if he has received implementation plans for this agreement from his Department and each State agency under his remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion he has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29678/11]

My Department submitted its revised ‘Action Plan' under the Public Service (Croke Park) Agreement In January. In May, the Department submitted its first progress report on the implementation of that Action Plan. The report outlines the significant progress made by the Department, which has been engaged in a fundamental process of re-organisation, major reductions in staffing levels and improvement of its business processes, including major changes to the local office network. The report shows a reduction of 173 staff and total administrative savings of nearly €14 million (including non-pay savings of over €4.7 million) in the year ending March 2011, the reporting period for the Agreement. Both the Action Plan and the progress report are published in full on my Department's website (under 2011 Publications). They give comprehensive details of both the pay and non-pay savings to be achieved over the period of the Agreement to 2014.

The Department's progress report and the progress reports of the State agencies under my remit formed part of the first annual review of the Agreement undertaken by the Implementation Body, details of which can be found on the Implementation Body website (www.implementationbody.gov.ie).

My Department will shortly report on the six months to the end of September and that will also be made available on the Department's website.

The Government has indicated that the Public Service Agreement represents a key enabler to meeting its fiscal targets under its obligations under the EU/IMF Joint Programme of Assistance. The quarterly returns made to date by the Government under the Programme on public service numbers and the paybill have indicated that the numbers of public servants are falling and we are on track to meet the existing target of 302,000 public service posts by end 2011. Similarly, the Exchequer pay bill return for the first six months is in line with the 2011 pay bill targets.

The Government has indicated that it wishes to honour the commitments given in the Public Service Agreement. However, this will only be possible if the Agreement is implemented in full.

Departmental Expenditure

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

429 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding budget 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29764/11]

The funding available to the Department in the 2012 Budget will be determined by the Government in the context of the prevailing economic and budgetary situation while having regard to the outcome of the Comprehensive Expenditure Review which is under way and the discussions on the 2012 Estimates process.

The National Recovery Plan 2011-2014 requires the Department to reduce total expenditure from €1.647 billion in 2011 to €1.286 billion in 2012. The reduced level of funding provided for will inevitably mean substantial cuts in expenditure in 2012 and subsequent years, and will impact on the schemes and services delivered by the Department.

Arising from the budgetary constraints as set out in the National Recovery Plan and the on-going difficulties in the national finances, the Government requested all Departments to undertake a Comprehensive Expenditure Review for the purposes of ensuring the best use of resources and also that Government's public service reform objectives of achieving new goals with lower levels of resources will be realised.

My Department has carried out a comprehensive review of all areas of activities and expenditure and has submitted a report to the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform which provides for cost reductions and a comprehensive set of options to meet the funding constraints. The review will be considered as part of the Government's overall pre-budget deliberations and the 2012 Estimates process.

I am acutely aware of the financial pressures on many farm families and of the importance of grant and scheme payments to their incomes and cash-flow. I have given the highest priority to the processing and payment of all scheme payments and to the elimination of all unnecessary delays. Payments under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme and the Agri-environment Options Scheme commenced in recent weeks and will continue as queries are resolved. I can also confirm that very substantial payments will issue between now and year end under the Single Payment Scheme and the Rural Environment Protection Scheme. Grants payments in respect of on-farm investments are dependent on the completion of the project concerned and submission of a valid, documented claim. I am also committed to ensuring that all such claims are processed and paid without delay.

Funding for these schemes in 2012 will be decided in Budget 2012 against the background I have outlined. My objectives are to ensure that funding is directed to priority schemes and services in accordance with Government policy and that the most cost-effective and efficient service is delivered by my Department. In this context, I will be aiming to maintain support for the most vulnerable farm families while attempting to focus the remaining available resources in favour of investment opportunities in the Food Harvest 2020 strategy and the Government's Programme for Recovery.

Environmental Policy

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

430 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will review the agri-environment options scheme (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29765/11]

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. Payment issues in all cases as soon as an application successfully passes these checks and to date, a total of 3437 farmers have received 75% of their 2010 entitlement. I expect that the remaining 25% of the 2010 entitlement will issue to these farmers by the end of October. I expect that outstanding cases will be paid or notified of any queries by the end of this month.

There are no delays in payments to farmers under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme. While there is no regulatory payment date, it is generally recognised and indeed acknowledged in the Farmers' Charter, that a payment target of late September of the year in question is the most realistic. In this regard, the Deputy will be aware that payments commenced, on target, on 22 September, with payments issuing to those farmers whose applications had been confirmed eligible for payment at that time. While I am pleased to note that payments worth in excess of €173 million have issued to date, representing almost 80% of applicants, I remain confident that the full budget for the Scheme will have been exhausted by year-end. I can confirm that my Department has, in the interim, continued to pay individuals, as their cases become clear, with payment runs taking place twice a week. This is normal practise and will continue on an ongoing basis, as necessary. In this regard, suggestions have been made that the necessity to re-digitise farmers' maps is leading to unnecessary and inordinate delays, resulting in payments being made later than would otherwise be the case. While I can assure the Deputy, and the wider farming community, that I am committed to allocating such resources as is necessary to ensure that the essential digitisation of applicants' maps onto the Department's Land Parcel Identification System (LPIS) , I must emphasise that any failings or shortcomings in LPIS would leave the Department open to the very real risk of significant fines. I am not prepared to take such a risk, nor will I compromise the value of direct payments to Irish farmers. Furthermore, sight should not be lost of the fact that the changes which have been recorded onto LPIS in very significant numbers, both throughout last year and again this year, are necessitated by the need to have all ineligible areas mapped; simply put, the position on the ground in any given farm must be accurately reflected on LPIS. To this end, therefore, these changes are, in the majority of cases, changes which were long since over-due.

As ever, the working relationship between my Department and the farming community greatly assists in the processing of these Schemes. Where in-house checks reveal anomalies in applicants' applications, the necessary correspondence issues immediately. By replying to all such correspondence as quickly as possible farmers ensure the rapid resolution of issues, thereby allowing their payments to be made.

I fully appreciate the value and importance of these schemes to Irish farmers and remain committed to ensuring that the maximum numbers are paid at the earliest possible date, mindful, of course, of the over-riding necessity to ensure compliance with the governing EU requirements.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

431 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29773/11]

This information is not available in my Department and in the time available it would not be possible to obtain such information from the Semi-State Bodies under the aegis of my Department.

Grant Payments

Pat Breen

Question:

432 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when headage payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29798/11]

An application under the 2011 Single Payment/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 10 May 2011. On processing of this application, an over-claim was identified on one of the land parcels listed. The person named has been written to in this regard and, on receipt of a satisfactory reply, the application will be further processed, with a view to payments under both Schemes issuing as soon as possible thereafter.

Farm Retirement Scheme

Brendan Griffin

Question:

433 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to introduce an early retirement scheme for farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29801/11]

Following the suspension of the Early Retirement Scheme on 14 October, 2008 due to budgetary constraints it became apparent that there was a number of farmers who had their preparations to apply for the Scheme completed or close to completion at that point. The Scheme was re-opened temporarily on 23 September 2009 with limited additional funding with a view to accepting as many as possible of the applications that fell into this category. I have no plans to re-open this Scheme or introduce another Scheme at this time.

Grant Payments

Paul Connaughton

Question:

434 Deputy Paul J. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the single farm payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29890/11]

An application under the 2011 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 13 May 2011, processing of which has recently been completed, thereby allowing Disadvantaged Area payment to issue on 17 October 2011. Advance payment under the Single Payment Scheme was issued to the applicant on 17 October 2011.

Michael Creed

Question:

435 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the reason for the delay in payment of the outstanding balance of a 2010 REP scheme 4 application to a person (details supplied) in County Cork; if he will also arrange for the prompt payment of 2011 REP scheme 4 and disadvantaged area payments to this person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29896/11]

The person named commenced REPS 4 in June 2008 and received full payments for the first two years of their contract.

In addition, 75% of the third year payment issued on 7 April 2011 for the amount of €6724.28. Following a cross-check between the SPS application for 2010 and the REPS agri-environmental plan an area discrepancy of 0.98 ha. was discovered which resulted in the imposition of a penalty. My Department is currently making arrangements to process the outstanding 25% payments to farmers in these instances where penalties have been imposed. I expect that these outstanding payments will commence in October.

Arrangements are also well advanced to issue payments in respect of 2011 and I expect that these payments will commence in November.

Pat Breen

Question:

436 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the disadvantaged area payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29924/11]

An application under the 2011 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 11 April 2011. Processing of the application of the person named has recently been completed thereby allowing payment to issue shortly.

Animal Welfare

Paschal Donohoe

Question:

437 Deputy Paschal Donohoe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if there is legislation in place on the health and safety of carriage horses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29943/11]

The main statutes governing the health and safety of all animals, including carriage horses, in this country is the Protection of Animals Act 1911 and the Protection of Animals (Amendment) Act, 1965. This legislation is enforced by the Garda Síochána, who may on receipt of a complaint investigate and bring a prosecution against any person alleged to have committed an offence under these Acts.

Grant Payments

Sean Conlan

Question:

438 Deputy Seán Conlan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding an application for the farm improvement grant scheme in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29968/11]

The person concerned is an applicant for grant-aid under the Farm Improvement Scheme. A query has arisen in respect of the application of the person named and I am arranging to have the case reviewed within my Department. I will be in touch with the Deputy again as soon as possible.

Tom Hayes

Question:

439 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a single farm and disadvantaged area payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary. [29976/11]

An application under the Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Area Scheme was received from the person named on the 18 April 2011. This application was selected for and was the subject of a Ground Eligibility Inspection.

The inspection process is completed and the application has now been fully processed. Payment under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme will issue within a week.

Under EU regulations governing the Single Payment Scheme advance payments cannot commence until 16 October. The 50% advance due to the applicant will issue shortly, with the balancing payment due in December.

Regional Boards

Terence Flanagan

Question:

440 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of vacant positions within regional boards as a result of persons on leave of absence; his plans to fill the vacancies; when the persons are due back; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30020/11]

This Department does not have any regional boards.

Departmental Expenditure

Terence Flanagan

Question:

441 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the amount spent by him on legal fees for the years 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30021/11]

The amount paid by my Department in legal fees for the years in question is listed in the following table. It should be noted that some of the figures include costs.

Year

Total Amount paid (€)

2006

3,120,996

2007

3,784,900

2008

3,298,268

2009

1,563,466

2010

3,729,575

2011 (30 September 2011)

989,208

Animal Diseases

Brendan Smith

Question:

442 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the timescale for the implementation of a national bovine viral diarrhoea eradication programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30058/11]

An industry led BVD eradication programme is currently being developed by a BVD Implementation Group (BVDIG), the work of which is being facilitated by Animal Health Ireland (AHI). The Implementation Group comprises representatives of a number of industry stakeholders as well as my Department, with technical advice being provided by AHI. A voluntary programme is foreseen for 2012, with an intention that the programme will become compulsory in 2013.

The details of the programme have not yet been fully finalised, however the basis of the scheme is early sampling of young calves by the farmers themselves through the capture of a tissue sample using a ‘tissue tag', submission of samples to a designated laboratory and the management of data arising through ICBF databases.

The recent unexpected development, where it was not possible to approve a tissue tag as an official identity tag for this forthcoming spring calving season was most disappointing for all stakeholders. However I am heartened by the resolve of the BVDIG to overcome this undoubted setback and their stated commitment to have a programme available for those that wish to participate in the voluntary programme in 2012. We must wait further announcements from the BVDIG.

Appointments to State Boards

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

443 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the saving to the State if all State agency board members’ annual payments were rescinded and instead board membership was awarded without remuneration. [30251/11]

There are currently 12 State Bodies/Agencies that fall under the aegis of this Department and these boards have a combined total of 199 board members. The total combined annual payments for all the board members is €1.17 million per annum.

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

444 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of persons who hold more than one State agency board position across the aegis of all Departments; their total remuneration; the number of board memberships said persons hold and their names in tabular form; and if such information is collated. [30262/11]

There are currently 12 State Bodies/Agencies that fall under the aegis of this Department.

The following table lists all persons who hold more than one State Board position in respect of the State Bodies/ Agencies under the aegis of this Department.

Board Members Names

Name of State Body/Agency

Remuneration

Dr Noel Cawley

Teagasc (Chair)

€20,520

Bord Bia

€11,970

€32,490

Lorcan O’Cinnéide

Aquaculture Licensing Appeals Board (ALAB)

€5,985

Marine Institute

€7,695

€13,680

Children in Care

Robert Dowds

Question:

445 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will provide an up-to-date report on the Health Service Executive residential youth centre in Dublin 22; and if she will provide assurances that it is being run in a way which ensures the safety of the children in the facility and that of local residents. [29579/11]

I have requested a report on this matter from the HSE and I will be in further contact with Deputy Dowds on receipt of this report.

Departmental Expenditure

Charlie McConalogue

Question:

446 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the amount of funding provided to an agency (details supplied) in 2010; the purpose for which the funding was provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29566/11]

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

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

447 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the position regarding the Croke Park Agreement; if he has received implementation plans for this agreement from her Department and each State agency under her remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion she has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29680/11]

My Department is currently compiling a report for the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform regarding the substantial reforms associated with the establishment of and transition to the new Department of Children and Youth Affairs and taking account of the relevant actions across existing Departmental and State Agency plans which now fall under the remit of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs.

Of course, as my Department was established on 1st June, 2011, it is currently preparing an Action Plan as required under the Croke Park Agreement and is integrating existing plans from the Agencies under my Department's remit. I have not had discussions with the EU and the IMF regarding the Agreement.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

448 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of her Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29775/11]

As all of the retired public servants from agencies under the aegis of my Department are in receipt of retirement pensions under €35,000 per annum, there would be no benefit to the Exchequer by capping these pensions at the rate suggested by the Deputy.

Youth Services

Ciara Conway

Question:

449 Deputy Ciara Conway asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the position regarding funding for youth cafés, in view of the fact that this is a good model for engaging with young persons; if funding will be sustained at current levels; when a decision on same will be made; her plans for youth cafés; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29876/11]

I agree that youth cafés offer a good model for positive engagement with young people. This is perhaps not surprising as it is a model which was initiated and led by young people themselves. The success of the model is evidence of the huge benefits which can flow from the encouragement of active participation by young people in decision making which my Department sees as one its continuing policy priorities.

As you will be aware as a result of the national youth café funding scheme 2010, jointly operated by my own Department and Pobal, a total of 64 youth café projects received funding to either open a brand new youth café site or to upgrade and improve facilities in existing sites. I am pleased to announce that as a result of that scheme a total of 16 brand new cafés are gradually coming on steam this year and in 2012. I have had the pleasure myself of officially opening some brand new youth cafés in recent months and it is extraordinary to see the real and meaningful difference that such facilities can bring to local communities. In many cases youth cafés are either partly or totally operated by young people themselves which itself helps encourage independence, personal responsibility and indeed entrepreneurial skills in terms of fund-raising and innovative ideas for revenue generation so that the cafés remain financially sustainable for the future. In these difficult economic times I would regard long term financial sustainability as the most important issue in terms of the continued success of the youth café model.

Following the completion of the payments to local projects by Pobal as a result of funds provided by my Department which has been ongoing throughout this year, my Department is currently examining the possibilities of providing funding for a small amount of additional projects who have applied for funding. Due to the current tough fiscal situation however, I regret that I am not in a position at this stage to give any specific new commitments in terms of additional funding being provided in 2012. Given the significant investment to date I believe it may also be timely to evaluate the results of the model generally. My Department will examine cost effective ways to study the impact of youth cafés facilities on local communities, specifically in areas where no such facilities existed previously.

Child Protection

Ciara Conway

Question:

450 Deputy Ciara Conway asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if a working group has been set up for the development of the child protection agency; the persons on this working group; if any non-governmental organisation that works with women and children who are victims of domestic violence has been included in the group, in view of the fact that such experience would be invaluable; if a group has been set up; if not, when same will happen; how the members will be chosen; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29877/11]

I established the Task Force on the Child and Family Support Agency in September, in response to the Programme for Government commitment to "fundamentally reform the delivery of child protection services by removing child welfare and protection from the HSE and creating a dedicated Child Welfare and Protection Agency, reforming the model of service delivery and improving accountability to the Dáil".

The Task Force will advise my Department in regard to the necessary transition programme to establish a Child and Family Support Agency, and will base its work on best practice in child welfare, family support and public administration; consistent with the Government's public sector reform agenda.

In relation to the Agency it has been asked to:

Propose a vision and the principles to guide operations;

Advise on the appropriate service responsibilities, and the delivery of same;

Review existing financial, staffing and corporate resources; and propose a methodology for resource allocation;

Propose an organisational design and operating child welfare and protection service model;

Prepare a detailed implementation plan;

Identify the main priorities and core relationships required;

Oversee the implementation and monitor progress, pending establishment of the Agency.

The Task Force members are listed below for the Deputy's information.

Chair: Ms Maureen Lynott, Management Consultant, and former Chair, Children First National Guidelines

Mr Jim Breslin, Secretary General, Department of Children and Youth Affairs

Prof Pat Dolan, UNESCO Chair and Director, Child and Family Research Centre, NUI Galway

Ms Norah Gibbons, Director of Advocacy, Barnardos

Mr Gordon Jeyes, National Director, Child & Family Services, HSE

Ms Sylda Langford, former Director General of the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

Dr Kevin McCoy, former Chief Inspector, Northern Ireland Social Services Inspectorate

Mr Pat McLoughlin, Chief Executive, Irish Payment Services Organisation Limited

Ms Ellen O'Malley-Dunlop, Chief Executive, Dublin Rape Crisis Centre

Mr Liam Woods, National Director, Finance, HSE.

Medical Cards

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

451 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health the position regarding a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29584/11]

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

Proposed Legislation

John Lyons

Question:

452 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Health his plans to introduce a human tissue Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29891/11]

I intend to bring legislative proposals for a Human Tissue Bill to Government early next year. These will include provisions that no hospital post-mortem may be carried out and no organ retained without consent and provisions to put in place a more comprehensive system for consent to anatomical examination to reflect current practices in this area. The legislative proposals will also include provisions relating to a consent framework for the donors of tissue and organs, whether living or deceased.

Home Care Services

Simon Harris

Question:

453 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the rationale behind the rationing of incontinence pads for carers and their dependants, including the introduction of a requirement that carers measure the output for each pad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30001/11]

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

Mental Health Services

Brendan Griffin

Question:

454 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Health his views in relation to a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30282/11]

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

463 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if he will lobby for capital funding to build the replacement facilities required to allow St. Finan’s Hospital, County Kerry, to close by 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29596/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 454 and 463 together.

The Programme for Government provided for a Comprehensive Expenditure Review which is now well under way. This exercise includes a review of the planned health care capital programme, the outcome of which will determine the health care capital allocations for 2012 and future years.

The Deputy may wish to note that Government policy on mental health incorporates the recommendations of A Vision for Change. This Government is therefore committed to the closure of the old psychiatric institutions and the transfer of patients to more appropriate community based accommodation.

Health Services

Jack Wall

Question:

455 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health the position regarding orthodontic treatment in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29456/11]

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

Nursing Home Services

John McGuinness

Question:

456 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health if he will immediately discuss with Health Service Executive management plans for the closure of a nursing home (details supplied) in County Dublin; if he will appreciate that news of the closure has come as a great shock to the local community and many families; the plans that are in place to look after existing patients; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29468/11]

Robert Dowds

Question:

462 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an up to date report on plans for a nursing home (details supplied) in County Dublin; when a replacement facility will be completed; the plans of the Health Service Executive for the current site in view of the fact that it is a good location for a nursing home or senior citizen’s facility due to its easy access from Tallaght. [29578/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 456 and 462 together.

The nursing home in question was established in 1959. It was originally a Tuberculosis clinic opened in 1935. There are 80 residents currently at the facility. There is also a day centre at the front of the main building providing a service to older persons from the local community.

The HSE completed a survey of the physical infrastructure, mechanical services installations and water & drainage services at the Unit and found substantial issues and deficits in these areas. It is estimated that it would cost almost €3m to carry out the essential works to address these issues. However these works would not ensure compliance with National Quality Standards. The HSE decided to close the home and transfer the majority of services to the new modern purpose built unit at Hollybrook Community Nursing Unit at Inchicore. The new CNU at Inchicore has a total capacity of 50 beds. It has not been opened to date due to the current constraints on staffing.

As capacity of the new CNU is less than that at the home referred to by the Deputies the proposal also envisages that some staff and residents will transfer to other public units. This will provide the HSE with an opportunity to reopen beds that are closed at these facilities.

I would like to reassure the Deputies that the residents will remain our primary concern. I am satisfied that the HSE is acting to provide the most appropriate care possible for them and the Executive will continue to work closely with them and their families to assist them through this difficult time. Selection of alternative placements will be informed by the medical and care needs of each resident as evaluated by clinical staff. It is important to emphasise that no resident will be placed in a more costly financial position because of the move.

The day-care services at the home are used by approximately 18 people daily from Monday to Friday. Part of the relocation plan will include the placement of these clients in alternative day centres suitable for their needs in their local areas.

Ongoing consultation will continue to take place with residents, their families, staff, representative organisations and public representatives. I understand that the indicative timescale for the transfer is between 3 and 6 months.

Medicinal Products

Robert Dowds

Question:

457 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Health the reason the cost of the drug Dona, commonly used by those suffering from arthritis in Ireland, is over six times more expensive than the drug Xicil, which is identical and used widely by those suffering from arthritis in other countries including Spain; and if there is scope for savings to his Department by substituting Xicil for Dona. [29480/11]

The medicinal product Xicil, which contains the active ingredient glucosamine, is not authorised for the Irish market. However, there are over twenty medicinal products containing glucosamine which are authorised for the Irish market.

Pharmaceutical companies can apply to the HSE for products to be reimbursed under the GMS Scheme and other community drugs schemes. In order for a medicinal product to be considered for reimbursement it must meet specified criteria. The medicinal product must be authorised for the Irish market by the Irish Medicines Board or the European Commission. The product must be such that it is ordinarily supplied to the public only on foot of a medical prescription. In addition, the product should not be advertised or promoted to the public.

Eight products containing glucosamine are available for reimbursement under the GMS and other community drugs schemes, including the brand Dona. The reimbursement price of Dona Sachets 1500mg has been reduced from €32.19 in February 2008 to €11.52 as a result of a range of measures taken by my Department and the HSE to lower the costs of medicines for both taxpayers and patients.

Health Services

Nicky McFadden

Question:

458 Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health his views on the scaling back of medical card holder entitlements to emergency dental procedures. [29525/11]

Unfortunately due to the current position of the public finances, it has been necessary to reduce the services available under the Dental Treatment Services Scheme (DTSS). However the Health Service Executive (HSE) has measures in place to ensure that patients with special needs, high risk patients and those who have greater clinical needs receive priority for treatment. In addition, a free oral examination every calendar year and free emergency dental treatment with a focus on the relief of pain and sepsis are available to all eligible patients.

Medical Cards

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

459 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health, further to Parliamentary Question No. 615 of 4 October 2011 and the supplementary reply in which he stated that the Health Service Executive replied to the question on the presumption of other income by outlining the assessment criteria, if he will clarify the assessment criteria cited by the HSE in that reply. [29527/11]

The Health Service Executive has confirmed to me that medical card applications for persons aged 16 to 25 years are assessed according to the Medical Card/GP Visit Card National Assessment Guidelines 2009 on the basis of the provisions of the Health Services (No. 3) Regulations, 1983 (S.I. No. 381 of 1983).

As stated in my reply on 4 October last, in accordance with these Guidelines, persons aged 16 to 25 years who are eligible for Medical Cards or GP Visit Cards are:

Persons who are dependant on holders of a Medical Card or GP Visit Card;

Financially independent persons whose means are within the income guidelines; and

Cases of undue hardship where it would be unduly burdensome to provide general practitioner or medical and surgical services.

Applicants aged 16 to 25 are deemed to be financially independent if they are in receipt of income equivalent to or greater than the current rate of Supplementary Welfare Allowance. Financial independence may be achieved through student loans, education grants, employment, self-employment, part-time employment, savings or social welfare payments.

Persons aged 16 to 25 who are ineligible for Medical Cards or GP Visit Cards are:

Persons who are financial dependents of persons who are not holders of a Medical Card or a GP Visit Card; and,

Financially independent persons whose income does not fall within the Medical Card/GP Visit Card guidelines.

Hospital Services

Gerry Adams

Question:

460 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Health the position regarding a surgery appointment in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29532/11]

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

Medical Cards

Finian McGrath

Question:

461 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health if he will review an medical card application in respect of a person (detail supplied) in Dublin 5. [29568/11]

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

Question No. 462 answered with Question No. 456.
Question No. 463 answered with Question No. 454.

Hospital Services

Charles Flanagan

Question:

464 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon will receive an appointment at Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin, for an operation or procedure, in view of the fact that the appointment was cancelled twice in July; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29599/11]

I am determined to address the issues which cause unacceptable delays in patients receiving treatment in our hospitals. In this regard I have established the Special Delivery Unit (SDU), which will work to unblock access to acute services by dramatically improving the flow of patients through the system, and by streamlining waiting lists, including referrals from GPs. The SDU is working closely with its partner agencies — mainly the HSE and the NTPF.

As a priority, public hospitals have been instructed to ensure that, by the end of 2011, they have no patients waiting more than 12 months for treatment. Where they fail to do so, the NTPF will source the necessary treatments elsewhere and an appropriate budgetary adjustment will be made.

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply. Should the patient's general practitioner consider that the patient's condition warrants an earlier appointment, he/she would be in the best position to take the matter up with the consultant and facility involved.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

465 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health if he will request the Health Service Executive to expedite surgical intervention in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29644/11]

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

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

466 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) in County Cork who has been attending the ophthalmology department at Cork University Hospital since May 2011 will be provided with the necessary surgical procedures to deal with the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29651/11]

I am determined to address the issues which cause unacceptable delays in patients receiving treatment in our hospitals. In this regard I have established the Special Delivery Unit (SDU), which will work to unblock access to acute services by dramatically improving the flow of patients through the system, and by streamlining waiting lists, including referrals from GPs. The SDU is working closely with its partner agencies — mainly the HSE and the NTPF.

As a priority, public hospitals have been instructed to ensure that, by the end of 2011, they have no patients waiting more than 12 months for treatment. Where they fail to do so, the NTPF will source the necessary treatments elsewhere and an appropriate budgetary adjustment will be made.

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply. Should the patient's general practitioner consider that the patient's condition warrants an earlier appointment, he/she would be in the best position to take the matter up with the consultant and facility involved.

Palliative Care

Simon Harris

Question:

467 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the policy on palliative care for children and young persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29664/11]

‘Palliative care for children with life-limiting conditions — A National Policy' was adopted as Government policy on 15 December 2009. This Policy aims to ensure that all children with life-limiting conditions will have the choice and opportunity to be cared for at home. Implementation of Phase 1 of the policy recommended the appointment of 1 Paediatric Palliative Care Consultant, and 8 Outreach Nurses nationally (2 per HSE region).

At present, the Consultant post and 2 of the Outreach Nursing posts have been filled. The Department will continue to liaise closely with the Health Service Executive to fill the outstanding nursing posts as quickly as possible.

Health Policy

Simon Harris

Question:

468 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the recommendations of the 2005 task force on obesity which have been implemented to date; the plans to implement the remainder of the recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29665/11]

Simon Harris

Question:

469 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost to the State of obesity and related illnesses each year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29666/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 468 and 469 together.

The National Task Force on Obesity completed its work in 2005. They estimated the direct health care costs of obesity for 2002 at some €70 million and the cost of deaths from obesity at up to €4bn per annum. An Inter-Sectoral Group on Obesity, comprising relevant Government Departments and key stake-holders, was established early in 2009 to oversee and monitor implementation of the Task Force recommendations. Its report, published in April 2009, detailed the progress made on each of the 93 recommendations. It showed that significant progress was made in the case of 32% of the recommendations, partial implementation occurred on 31%, action progressed on a further 28%, leaving 9% where little progress was reported.

Since 2009 work on initiatives to tackle obesity is continuing and progress has been made in a number of key areas, including the development of national physical activity guidelines and treatment algorithms for health care professionals. Earlier this year I established a Special Action Group on Obesity to identify and progress a number of issues to address the problem of obesity. The Group is concentrating on a range of measures such as calorie posting in restaurants, the introducing of a sugar tax on sugar-sweetened drinks, the restriction of marketing of high salt, fat and sugary food and drink to children, healthy eating guidelines, the detection and treatment of obesity and the promotion of physical activity. The Group will liaise with other Government Departments and organisations as required.

Addiction Services

Simon Harris

Question:

470 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the addiction services currently funded by the State; the models of treatment under which care is provided; if studies have been conducted into the efficacy of the different models of addiction care provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29667/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is being collated by the HSE. I will arrange to have it forwarded to the Deputy shortly.

Simon Harris

Question:

471 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the funding provided for addiction services nationally and within the Dublin/Leinster region for each of the years 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and to date in 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29668/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is being collated by the HSE. I will arrange to have it forwarded to the Deputy shortly.

Simon Harris

Question:

472 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the addiction services available to residents in County Wicklow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29669/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is being collated by the HSE. I will arrange to have it forwarded to the Deputy shortly.

Health Services

Simon Harris

Question:

473 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the cost to the State of oral health care for each of the years 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and to date in 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29670/11]

Oral health services span Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Care Services including Acute Hospitals.

The Public Dental Service (PDS) provides emergency, routine and preventive oral health services to children under 16 and people of all ages with special needs. Oral health care is provided to medical card holders by dental practitioners contracted by the HSE under the Dental Treatment Services Scheme (DTSS). Orthodontic services, also delivered by salaried dental staff of the HSE, are provided to eligible patients based on the level of clinical need. Oral surgery and maxillofacial surgery is delivered either by secondary or tertiary services.

The following information is available in relation to costs of oral health care:

Year

Public Dental Service Expenditure (approximate)

DTSS Expenditure (approximate)

2005

n/a

€54 m

2006

n/a

€55 m

2007

n/a

€58 m

2008

€65.5m

€63 m

2009

€64.8m

€88 m

2010

€59.5m

€79 m

2011

€60m (allocated budget)

€37m (to end of August)

The base budget for orthodontics is currently €16m approximately. This includes some oral surgery and restorative treatment costs.

The HSE is not in a position to provide the level of detail requested in respect of the cost of Public Dental Services in 2005-2007 or in respect of oral and maxillofacial surgery which in most cases forms part of the budget for the setting in which it is provided and cannot be disaggregated.

The HSE has provided revenue funding of between €6m and €7.5m approximately to the Dublin Dental School and Hospital (DDSH) for the years in question in respect of a Service Level Agreement. The DDSH has other sources of funding including payment from the HSE for individual items of treatment. The HSE provides approximately €2m to Cork University Dental School and Hospital each year also.

The HSE is currently implementing the recommendations of the Strategic Review of the Management and Delivery of Dental Services which includes the development of a National Oral Health Office. It is intended that a new structure for the collation of financial information will be implemented in 2012.

Simon Harris

Question:

474 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health if a cost-benefit analysis comparing the cost of preventative dental health care measures compared to the provision of emergency dental care was carried out in advance of budget 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29671/11]

A cost benefit analysis comparing the cost of preventative dental health care and emergency dental care was not carried out in advance of budget 2010.

Unfortunately it was deemed necessary to reduce the services available under the Dental Treatment Services Scheme (DTSS) at that time due to the difficult position of the public finances.

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

475 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the Croke Park agreement; if he has received implementation plans for this agreement from his Department and each State agency under his remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion he has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29687/11]

Under the Public Service Agreement 2010-2014, detailed action plans have been developed by my Department, the Health Service Executive and the other statutory agencies under the aegis of my Department. The Action Plans were developed in 2010 and are subject to revision from time to time in the light of changing priorities and circumstances.

Each organisation was required by May 2011 to prepare its first detailed report on the progress being made in implementing its Action Plan and these reports formed part of the first annual review of the Agreement undertaken by the Implementation Body. The second phase of progress reporting on the Agreement is underway at present, with updated progress reports due to be submitted to the Implementation Body during October. Sectoral reports will be examined by the Body and published on its website (www.implementationbody.gov.ie). It is expected that Action Plans will need to be revisited later in the year when decisions have been taken by Government following the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure.

The Public Service Agreement represents a key enabler to the Government meeting its fiscal targets under its obligations under the EU/IMF Joint Programme of Assistance. The Government wishes to honour the commitments given in the Public Service Agreement. However, this will only be possible if the Agreement is implemented in full. The successful implementation of the agreement in the health sector will be dependent on constructive engagement between the parties to achieve significant and meaningful reform in the organisation of services and in work practices.

Health Service Staff

John McGuinness

Question:

476 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health the number of agency staff qualified in the areas of speech therapy, physiotherapy and occupational therapy who are employed by the Health Service Executive in Carlow and Kilkenny and whose contracts have ended in the past three months; if there is a waiting list for each of these services in Carlow and Kilkenny; and his plans for dealing with the delivery of these services with a reduced number of qualified staff. [29694/11]

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

Medical Cards

John McGuinness

Question:

477 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health if a medical card will be issued immediately in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [29698/11]

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

John McGuinness

Question:

478 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health if he will confirm the time frame involved in processing a medical card application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will expedite the matter. [29699/11]

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

John McGuinness

Question:

479 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health if a medical card will be issued to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [29703/11]

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

Hospital Waiting Lists

Brendan Griffin

Question:

480 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Health if an appointment will be brought forward for a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29704/11]

I am determined to address the issues which cause unacceptable delays in patients receiving treatment in our hospitals. In this regard I have established the Special Delivery Unit (SDU), which will work to unblock access to acute services by dramatically improving the flow of patients through the system, and by streamlining waiting lists, including referrals from GPs. The SDU is working closely with its partner agencies — mainly the HSE and the NTPF.

As a priority, public hospitals have been instructed to ensure that, by the end of 2011, they have no patients waiting more than 12 months for treatment. Where they fail to do so, the NTPF will source the necessary treatments elsewhere and an appropriate budgetary adjustment will be made.

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply. Should the patient's general practitioner consider that the patient's condition warrants an earlier appointment, he/she would be in the best position to take the matter up with the consultant and facility involved.

Home Help Services

Mattie McGrath

Question:

481 Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Health Service Executive has informed a client that it cannot provide or increase their home help hours until hours are freed up by another client and that this position is unlikely to change by the end of the year; if he finds it acceptable that elderly persons in need of home help should have to wait until another client is deceased in order that they can get home help; his view on whether this is an acceptable policy in the provision of community care; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29715/11]

Government policy is to support older people to live at home and in their communities for as long as possible. This is realised through a range of community based supports provided by the Health Service Executive (HSE), including home help, home care packages, meals-on-wheels, and day / respite care.

There has been no reduction in the overall funding to the Executive for the home help service for 2011, compared to last year. As per the HSE Service Plan agreed for the current year, the Executive is committed to providing nearly 12 million home help hours nationally, to around 54,000 clients. It is a matter for the Executive, which has operational responsibility to provide the service nationally, to manage the service at local or individual level. Applicants are prioritised by the Executive, which targets services at clients with a high level of dependency, in accordance with their assessed needs and available resources.

It is not necessarily the case that an existing recipient has to die before a service is made available to an approved applicant. Factors such as changing personal, family, or care circumstances are taken into account in respect of prioritising those waiting to receive home help.

I am not familiar with the particular case raised by the Deputy, but if he wishes to forward the relevant details to me I will follow up the matter with the HSE.

Hospital Services

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

482 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Health, further to Parliamentary Question No. 443 of 12 July 2011, when a reply will issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29716/11]

My Department has made enquiries with the Health Service Executive in relation to this matter and I understand that a reply issued to the Deputy on 17 October.

Charlie McConalogue

Question:

483 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Health when the special delivery unit will be in operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29722/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

496 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if, in view of his commitment in an interview on www.irishhealth.com that he personally, or someone on his behalf, will contact hospitals to ask the reason individual patients have been waiting in emergency departments for over 12 or 24 hours, he has in fact contacted any hospitals to inquire about individual patients; the hospitals he has contacted; if he will put in place a system whereby patients or their families can contact his office directly in order that he can inquire about delays that relate to them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29901/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 483 and 496 together.

Immediately following my appointment I set about establishing the Special Delivery Unit to unblock access to acute services by improving the flow of patients through the system. The SDU is focusing initially on emergency departments and will be working to support hospitals in addressing excessive waiting times for admission to hospital. The Special Delivery Unit (SDU) is working closely with key teams in the HSE and the NTPF. The SDU will also be working with hospitals to conduct a performance diagnostic analysis of the unscheduled care system in the acute hospital sector over the coming months.

My view is that we need to embed performance management in the system to sustain shorter waiting times. As the Deputy knows, this Government has an ambitious programme of reform which includes institutional reforms and economic incentives which will make health care providers truly accountable for delivering patient centred care. I can assure the Deputy that I have the commitment and determination to deliver this agenda.

I am very impressed with the work already begun by the Special Delivery Unit. Our problems did not arise overnight and they will take time to resolve but they are being tackled in a systematic and relentless fashion through the SDU. I do not minimise the scale of the task before us but I am very confident that the Special Delivery Unit will provide a real performance management function for the Irish hospital system and will drive down waiting times.

Medical Cards

Denis Naughten

Question:

484 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health the reason a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon is deemed not to be financially independent to apply for a medical card in their own right even though they are in receipt of the maximum supplementary welfare allowance for their age; if this means that every person in the country under 25 years will have to be means tested for a medical card on their parents’ income if they live at home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29736/11]

I have requested the Health Service Executive to furnish a full report on this case. I will revert to the Deputy as soon as the information is to hand.

Health Services

Timmy Dooley

Question:

485 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Health, further to Parliamentary Question No. 519 of 19 July 2011 and in view of his response in July that this information in respect of 2010 would be published on the Health Service Executive website shortly, and noting that this has not yet happened, if he will now arrange for same to be furnished; and the reason information is slow to be made available this year. [29746/11]

The HSE has informed me that the information requested by the Deputy is in the process of being finalised. I understand that there is a huge volume of work involved in producing the figures. On completion, the amounts paid to all contractors (doctors, pharmacists, dentists and optometrists) will be made publicly available.

Pearse Doherty

Question:

486 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an explanation for the delay in providing an operation in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 20; when the patient concerned will receive the required treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29755/11]

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

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

487 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties that Camphill Communities has in operating at 2005 costings and the reduced availability of workers; if he will arrange for the Health Service Executive to undertake the negotiation of a new long-term funding strategy to reflect the new conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29761/11]

As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for this question to be transferred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Freedom of Information

Catherine Murphy

Question:

488 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health if he will confirm the reason no response, reply or acknowledgement has ever been issued in response to a letter sent to the office of the chief executive officer of the Health Service Executive (details supplied); the current policy within the HSE with regard to the acknowledgement and processing of and response to freedom of information requests generally; if there is anything in the general HSE policy or a specific policy pertaining to the office of the CEO of the HSE which would preclude the issuing of responses to freedom of information requests; if so, the reason that is the case; the details of that policy; if the office of the CEO of the HSE is required to process and act upon the receipt of a freedom of information request; if so, the time frame within which such a request must be processed and responded to; if not, the reason this is the case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29762/11]

Under the Freedom of Information legislation the Health Service Executive is a completely separate body from the Department of Health. Statutory responsibility for compliance with the provisions of the Freedom of Information Acts rests entirely with the Health Service Executive.

Provisions within the Freedom of Information legislation allow for an appeals process should any prescribed body fail to meet its requirements under the Acts.

I have been advised that this particular request, which was resubmitted to the relevant local office of the HSE on the 5 of October, has been acknowledged as received by that office and the request is being processed.

Health Service Investigations

Emmet Stagg

Question:

489 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health, further to Parliamentary Question No 598 of 3 May 2011, if the independent investigation has been completed; and when will the recommendations be published. [29768/11]

As the investigation concerned was commissioned by the HSE under its Trust in Care policy, and concerns an individual case, the Deputy's question has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply.

Health Services

Emmet Stagg

Question:

490 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be assessed by an occupational therapist. [29769/11]

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

Hospital Accommodation

Emmet Stagg

Question:

491 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health the number of beds currently available at Maynooth Community Hospital, Leinster Street, Maynooth, County Kildare; if beds have been closed recently; and if so, when will these bed spaces be reopening. [29770/11]

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

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

492 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Health the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29782/11]

The application of such a cap on Exchequer funded pension payments of my Department's directly funded agencies would result in an annual saving of €32,209.

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

493 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Health the savings to the Exchequer if all existing Health Service Executive public service pension payments were capped at €35,000 per year. [29789/11]

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

Health Service Investigations

Billy Kelleher

Question:

494 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the status of an independent report, which was due in September 2011, into the practice of symphysiotomy; when he expects the report to be published; if his attention has been drawn to the anxiety the delay in publishing the report is causing to victims of the procedure; the steps he will take to address the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29894/11]

My Department has been in discussion with the independent academic researcher appointed to carry out the research in relation to its completion. The researcher has advised my Department that due to unforeseen difficulties in accessing information sources over the summer she expects to complete the report by the end of this month rather than as originally planned.

As soon as the draft report is received my Department will further engage with patient representative groups and the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists as I am very conscious of the feelings of the women that underwent this procedure.

It is my intention that the report be published, subject of course to the usual legal and related considerations, which are as of now not expected to create any significant barriers to publication.

Hospital Accommodation

Billy Kelleher

Question:

495 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will confirm that on 4 October 2011 there were 49 patients on trolleys at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, County Louth, and that this is the highest figure ever recorded for that hospital; if he will confirm if the full capacity protocol was activated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29900/11]

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

Question No. 496 answered with Question No. 483.

Medical Cards

Regina Doherty

Question:

497 Deputy Regina Doherty asked the Minister for Health the differences in services offered and medicines covered by medical cards in different counties. [29916/11]

Drugs and medicines on the list of reimbursable items under the General Medical Services (GMS) scheme are available to all valid medical card holders regardless of location. This list is available to view on the Health Service Executive (HSE) website. Those contracted to provide services to medical card holders i.e. doctors, pharmacists, dentists and optometrists are bound by the terms and conditions of their contracts and provide the same services to clients nationally.

Mental Health Services

Simon Harris

Question:

498 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health his strategy to address the issue of youth suicide, particularly for young males under the age of 35 years; his plans to address mental illnesses suffered by young men; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29917/11]

Alan Farrell

Question:

510 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Health the various mental health resources available to children and teenagers; the current programmes in place to raise awareness and encourage good mental health among children and teenagers; his plans to increase availability of mental health resources and raise awareness for children and teenagers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30012/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 498 and 510 together.

A Vision for Change identified mental health services for children and young people as a priority area for development. The HSE has therefore placed a particular emphasis on developing child and adolescent mental health teams, improving in-patient access and addressing waiting times for assessment, and progress has been made in recent years. There are now 61 multi-disciplinary Child and Adolescent Mental Health teams nationally and further teams will be developed in line with the recommendations of A Vision for Change.

In terms of child and adolescent mental health infrastructure, two new purpose built units opened earlier this year at Bessborough, Cork and Merlin Park, Galway, increasing the total bed capacity to 36 beds, with a further increase to 52 beds expected before the end of 2011. It is proposed to provide further beds in the Dublin region and, in this regard, work is due to commence on the second phase of the Child and Adolescent Unit at St. Vincent's Hospital, Fairview which will increase capacity from 6 to 12 beds, and on the development of an 8 bedded facility at St Loman's, Palmerstown. In addition, work on the Linn Dara Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day Facility in Cherry Orchard, Dublin is close to completion.

Specific initiatives aimed at addressing young people's mental health include the Jigsaw Programme, which was designed by Headstrong and its panel of youth advisors, and is an evidence-based integrated model designed to strengthen a community’s capacity to support young people’s mental health. It works on a partnership model, pulling together and aligning all existing resources and expertise in any given community. Jigsaw is up and running in Counties Galway, Roscommon, Kerry, Meath and Ballymun in Dublin. An additional €1m Innovation Funding was allocated to Headstrong in 2011 to support the expansion of Jigsaw to Donegal, Offaly, Clondalkin, Tallaght, North Fingal and Dublin 15.

Further initiatives aimed at addressing young people's mental health include:

The HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention public education campaign, centred around www.yourmentalhealth.ie. In addition www.letsomeoneknow.ie is a website specifically targeted at a younger audience.

Reaching Out (awareness) safeTALK (alertness) and ASIST (intervention) are three training programmes which are available across the country through the HSE Resource Officers for Suicide Prevention and are accessed by volunteers, staff from statutory / non-statutory agencies and community groups.

The National Youth Council of Ireland is training youth workers to deliver the MindOut programme to early school leavers across the country. An evaluation of this mental health promotion programme has demonstrated its efficacy in improving knowledge, attitudes and behaviours.

Shine is in receipt of funding to deliver Taking Control workshops across the country to those who have become unemployed and are facing financial or personal challenges. The practical workshop focuses on ways to build resilience, enhance coping skills and build self-esteem.

The National Traveller Suicide Awareness Project is being funded by the HSE. This community development project to address the issue of suicide among young Traveller men will devise and deliver culturally appropriate suicide and mental health awareness programmes for a population which is traditionally hard to reach.

The Dodder Valley Partnership/Suicide Action West Tallaght project focuses on unemployed men/men in financial distress who are expressing suicidal ideation.

The National Office for Suicide Prevention in the HSE is also working with an all-island Men's Health Forum on a project specifically addressing Men's Health which includes Mental Health issues.

The Government is committed to improving access to community based mental health services and proposes to ringfence €35m annually from within the health budget to develop community based teams and services.

Vaccination Programme

Michelle Mulherin

Question:

499 Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Health the complaints of side effects he has received from recipients of the swine flu vaccine since 2009; and the nature of the complaints. [29938/11]

Michelle Mulherin

Question:

500 Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Health if any of the swine flu vaccines or winter flu vaccines have been withdrawn from use. [29940/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 499 and 500 together.

Throughout the H1N1 influenza pandemic of 2009/10, the Irish Medicines Board published regular updates on national monitoring experience with the vaccines used on its website. Since then, the IMB has received information on reports of suspected cases of Narcolepsy in some patients who received one of the vaccines, Pandemrix, in Ireland and is working in consultation with other national organisations including the Health Service Executive and the Health Protection Surveillance Centre in relation to this matter.

The IMB is also contributing to the evaluation of this issue at EU level through its participation at the European Medicines Agency and its scientific committees. An update on the outcome of the EU evaluation was published by the European Medicines Agency in July 2011 and is available on the EMA website. The EMA has advised that balance of risks/benefits still favour this vaccine being provided in a pandemic (which we are currently not in). Also, that it should only be used in persons under 20 years of age if the recommended annual seasonal trivalent influenza strain (which protects against three influenza strains) is not available and that immunisation against H1N1 is still needed. For instance, in people at risk of complications of infection. GP's have been advised to return any remaining stocks to the HSE for disposal. Any stock in Ireland is now out of date.

The seasonal influenza vaccine changes annually in accordance with the particular strain of influenza identified in that year and the vaccine is, therefore, only licensed and effective for that particular year. There have been no withdrawals or recalls of the current seasonal flu vaccine as it does not arise.

Health Service Expenditure

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

501 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Health if he will provide details of the pro rata expenditure by the Health Service Executive in each of the old health board regions for the years 2007 to date in 2011; and if he will provide details of the total expenditure by the HSE in each of these regions for the same period. [29948/11]

Information pertaining to former Health Board structures is not available as the Health Service Executive is now configured from an operational basis into four distinct Regions. Each Region deals primarily with acute and community services. Whilst these regions generally follow old Health Board geographical areas, corporate functions such as Human Resources and Finance, and other national services are now administered centrally, and therefore comparison with the previous Health Board expenditure patterns in not appropriate.

The information regarding expenditure broken down by the new regional structure is set out in the following table.

8 Months Aug-11€000

Full Year 2010€000

Full Year 2009€000

Full Year 2008€000

Full Year 2007€000

Dublin / Mid Leinster Region

1,859,220

2,923,309

2,193,348

3,112,264

2,995,424

Dublin / North East Region

1,321,774

2,051,431

3,019,918

2,293,118

2,199,116

South Region

1,302,126

2,026,880

2,256,355

2,139,492

2,033,978

West Region

1,370,150

2,116,267

2,328,706

2,319,760

2,557,658

Total Regional Expenditure*

5,853,270

9,117,886

9,798,327

9,864,635

9,786,176

* Includes expenditure on hospital and community services. Excludes national and centrally administered services.

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

502 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Health if the Health Service Executive employs taxis to convey medical and other files from the Mid-Western Regional Hospital in Limerick; if he will provide details on amounts spent by the HSE for that purpose in the years 2010 and to date in 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29949/11]

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

General Practitioner Fees

John Halligan

Question:

503 Deputy John Halligan asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that many persons have continuously expressed concern that in the midst of the current economic crisis, many doctors are still charging excessively for consultation fees, which is having a huge financial impact on families without either medical cards or general practitioner visit cards; his plans to encourage doctors to reduce their over-inflated consultation fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29955/11]

Consultation fees charged by general practitioners to private patients are a matter of private contract between the clinicians and the patients. While I have no role in relation to such fees, I would expect clinicians to have regard to the overall economic situation in setting their fees.

The Medical Council's Guide to Professional Conduct and Ethics for Registered Medical Practitioners states that the fees charged should be appropriate to the service provided and that patients should be informed of the likely costs before the consultation and treatment. The Health (Provision of General Practitioner Services) Bill 2011 was published on 30th September 2011. The Bill provides for the elimination of restrictions on GPs wishing to treat public patients under the General Medical Services (GMS) Scheme. This legislation will encourage young GPs to remain in Ireland and to establish their practices here. It will also encourage competition among GPs at a time when many fee paying patients have less money at their disposal.

I would also like to point out that the Programme for Government provides for significant strengthening of primary care services to deliver universal primary care with the removal of cost as a barrier to access for patients. This commitment will be achieved on a phased basis to allow for the recruitment of additional doctors, nurses and other primary care professionals.

Access to primary care without fees will be extended in the first year to claimants of free drugs under the Long-Term Illness Scheme and in the second year to claimants of free drugs under the High-Tech Drugs Scheme. Access to subsidised primary care will be extended to all in the next phase and universal access to care without fees will occur in the final phase. I will oversee the implementation of this programme with the assistance of a project team of officials from my Department and the HSE.

Health Service Allowances

John O'Mahony

Question:

504 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their superannuation payment; the reason for the delay in this payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29979/11]

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

Health Service Expenditure

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

505 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Health the cost to his Department of the printing, posting and administration of payslips for Health Service Executive staff. [29983/11]

I have referred this matter to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Hospital Services

Seán Kenny

Question:

506 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Health his plans to open a new burns unit at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29993/11]

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

Nursing Homes Support Scheme

Simon Harris

Question:

507 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health if he will address the imposition of additional charges on nursing home residents, on top of the agreed fees, for services supposed to be covered by the nursing homes support scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29998/11]

Simon Harris

Question:

508 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health if additional charges, above those agreed under the fair deal scheme, are to be imposed on residents of a nursing home (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29999/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 507 and 508 together.

The Nursing Homes Support Scheme provides financial support towards the cost of long-term residential care. The cost for long-term residential care in private nursing homes is agreed between the each individual nursing home and the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF). The services which fall within the scope of long-term residential care and which are covered by this cost are:

nursing and personal care appropriate to the level of care needs of the person,

basic aids and appliances necessary to assist a person with the activities of daily living,

bed and board, and

laundry service.

The cost for each public nursing home has been determined using the definition of long-term residential care services underpinned by an agreed set of cost components which has been laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas. The cost components are consistent with the services outlined above but differ in format in order to mirror existing cost coding structures within the HSE. Incontinence wear, where required, is provided free of charge by the HSE to all Nursing Homes Support Scheme residents that possess a Medical Card. Under the scheme, all residents retain their eligibility for other schemes, such as the Medical Card Scheme or the Drugs Payment Scheme. Individuals can continue to receive goods and services in accordance with the terms of these other schemes regardless of whether they are in a private nursing home or elsewhere.

In determining the services covered by the Nursing Homes Support Scheme, it was considered very important that the care recipient and the taxpayer would be protected and would not end up paying for the same services twice. For this reason, medications and aids that are already prescribed for individuals under an existing scheme are not included in the services covered by the scheme, as this would involve effectively paying twice for the same items or service.

Individuals who avail of the Nursing Homes Support Scheme should not be charged any additional fee over and above the cost agreed with the NTPF, except where he or she chooses to obtain additional services over and above long-term residential care services, for example, hairdressing, social programmes or the delivery of daily newspapers. Under the Health Act 2007, statutory responsibility is given to the Chief Inspector of Social Services, part of the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA), for the independent inspection and registration of certain categories of designated centres. This includes residential care settings for older people. This responsibility is underpinned by a comprehensive quality framework comprising the Health Act 2007, the Health Act 2007 (Care and Welfare of Residents in Designated Centres for Older People) Regulations 2009, as amended, and the National Quality Standards for Residential Care Settings for Older People in Ireland.

Article 28 of the Regulations provides that the registered provider shall agree a contract with the resident within one month of admission and that the contract shall include details of the services to be provided and the fees to be charged. The Chief Inspector has the power to refuse to register, attach conditions to a registration or cancel the registration of a designated centre in the event of non-compliance with the regulations or the standards.

Finally, with regard to the particular nursing home referred to by the Deputy, this is a private nursing home and as such the Minister for Health has no role in determining the fees that it charges to residents. However, the nursing home can only charge fees for services not covered by the Nursing Homes Support Scheme in accordance with the legislation as outlined above. If the Deputy is aware of any nursing home not complying with the Regulations I would encourage him to notify HIQA directly of these concerns.

Health Services

Simon Harris

Question:

509 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health if respite services for carers will be reinstated at a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30000/11]

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

Question No. 510 answered with Question No. 498.

Hospital Services

Billy Kelleher

Question:

511 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if there will be any changes to services at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin, between now and the end of the year; if he will list the services affected; the details of any changes to staffing arrangements; the estimated cost of the change in these services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30023/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

512 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of staff who will be affected by the reduction in agency staff and overtime hours at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30024/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

513 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the wards and services at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, that will be affected by the proposed reduction in agency staff and overtime hours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30025/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

516 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the reason 12 surgical beds are to be closed at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15; when these bed closures will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30028/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

517 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the measures he will put in place to cover the closure of 12 surgical beds at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30029/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

518 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the expected reduction in the number of patients treated arising from the closure of 12 surgical beds at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30030/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

519 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the measures he will put in place to cover the closure of the surgical ward at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, from 24 October to 7 November; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30031/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

520 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the reason the surgical ward at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, is being closed from 24 October to 7 November; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30032/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

521 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health how surgical procedures at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, will be impacted by the closure of the surgical ward from 24 October to 7 November 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30033/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

522 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the reason the surgical ward at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, will be reduced from 24 beds to eight upon its reopening on 7 November 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30034/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

523 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health how surgical procedures at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, will be impacted by the reduction of beds in the surgical ward from 24 to eight from 7 November 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30035/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

524 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the measures being put in place at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, to cover the reduction in beds in the surgical ward from 24 to eight from 7 November 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30036/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

525 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the reason the surgical ward at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, will be closed for three weeks from 19 December in the run-up to Christmas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30037/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

526 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health how surgical procedures at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, will be impacted by the closure of the surgical ward for three weeks from 19 December 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30038/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

527 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the measures put in place at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, to cover the closure of the surgical ward for three weeks from 19 December 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30039/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 511 to 513, inclusive, and 516 to 527, inclusive, together.

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

Billy Kelleher

Question:

514 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the date on which he was informed there would be changes to the services provided by Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30026/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

515 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health when he was informed there would be changes made to the services provided by Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30027/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 514 and 515 together.

I am very conscious of the scale of the financial challenge faced by the HSE this year. All hospitals have to seek efficiencies, and I have emphasised to the HSE that budgetary compliance must be maintained, while delivering the service levels promised in the National Service Plan. Both activity and expenditure at Connolly Hospital are ahead of the levels approved in the 2011 National Service Plan. With this in mind, a comprehensive review of services at the hospital has been undertaken by the HSE and hospital management.

On 18 August last the Department of Health was informed that the HSE had confirmed to my Department that measures were being planned to ensure that Connolly remains within budget by year end. In mid September the Department of Health was advised by the HSE that a number of options were being reviewed relating to procurement of all externally sourced services and goods, agency staffing and overtime levels, in-patient, day case and out-patient activity and improved / additional income collection measures to increase private income collection. On 23 September 2011, I was advised by the HSE that a cost containment plan was in place including the closure of 24 acute beds, seasonal closures of the OPD/Surgical Day Ward, additional reductions in agency and overtime per month from August 2011 and curtailment of activity while remaining within national targets.

On 3 October 2011 I met with Consultants and Senior Management Personnel when I opened the Endoscopy Unit at the Hospital. The specific details in relation to bed closures at Connolly were raised in the Dáil and the media on the 6 and 7 October 2011. On 10 October, the HSE confirmed to my Department the temporary closure of the surgical day ward for 2 weeks from 24 October 2011 and its reopening on 7 November 2011 with a reduction from 24 to 8 places. In addition a further temporary closure for 3 weeks is planned from 19 December. The phased closure of 12 in-patient surgical beds between then and the end of the year was also confirmed by the HSE.

Questions Nos. 516 to 527, inclusive, answered with Question No. 511.

Billy Kelleher

Question:

528 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the reason he did not detail in his speech during his visit to Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 on 3 October 2011 that the endoscopy department had been operational since May 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30042/11]

Billy Kelleher

Question:

529 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the reason the press release issued to mark his visit to the endoscopy department in Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 on 3 October 2011 did not refer to the fact that the unit had been operational since May 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30043/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 528 and 529 together.

While the endoscopy unit in Connolly Hospital has been operational since May 2010, I was invited by the hospital in a letter of the 14 of June to perform the official opening ceremony. The main purposes of my speech of 3 October was to congratulate all those involved with the development of the unit since its inception and to emphasise that the work being done within the unit in diagnosing and treating digestive conditions is helping to ensure the early detection of and prevention of colon cancer.

The press release referred to by the Deputy was released by the HSE and it also concentrated on the work being done by the Unit and the resulting benefits to patients.

Mental Health Services

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

530 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health his views on correspondence regarding Kerry Mental Health Services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30061/11]

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

Health Services

Dara Calleary

Question:

531 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Health, further to Parliamentary Question No. 962 of 14 September 2011, when a response will issue from the Health Service Executive. [30063/11]

I have contacted the HSE and a response to the Deputy's question will issue shortly.

Medical Cards

Jack Wall

Question:

532 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kildare was granted a doctor-only medical card; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30065/11]

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

Departmental Funding

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

533 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Health if the allocated school-leaver funding for a person (details supplied) will be ring-fenced and available to them next year in view of the fact that no suitable place was available to them in the current year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30128/11]

An allocation for funding for the individual referred to has been confirmed.

In relation to the person in question, the preferred facility in respect of meeting the specific needs is currently at capacity in terms of its available places. The individual referred to in this PQ will continue to remain a priority for day service placement until the matter is resolved. The Disability manager is in constant contact with the individual's parents.

Hospital Services

John McGuinness

Question:

534 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health the reason an operation was cancelled in respect of a person (details supplied). [30159/11]

I am determined to address the issues which cause unacceptable delays in patients receiving treatment in our hospitals. In this regard I have established the Special Delivery Unit (SDU), which will work to unblock access to acute services by dramatically improving the flow of patients through the system, and by streamlining waiting lists, including referrals from GPs. The SDU is working closely with its partner agencies — mainly the HSE and the NTPF.

As a priority, public hospitals have been instructed to ensure that, by the end of 2011, they have no patients waiting more than 12 months for treatment. Where they fail to do so, the NTPF will source the necessary treatments elsewhere and an appropriate budgetary adjustment will be made.

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply. Should the patient's general practitioner consider that the patient's condition warrants an earlier appointment, he/she would be in the best position to take the matter up with the consultant and facility involved.

Health Services

Tom Fleming

Question:

535 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Health the waiting time for audiology services in County Kerry; if the current temporary services will be upgraded to a five-day-week service; and if he will arrange that the clinic at Edward Street, Tralee, County Kerry, be re-located to a more accessible location. [30162/11]

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

Hospital Services

Stephen S. Donnelly

Question:

536 Deputy Stephen Donnelly asked the Minister for Health, with regard to the ongoing collaborative study on smaller hospitals, the person who is leading this study; if any other persons are involved; the oversight and review structure mechanism for this study; if any external consultants are being used for the collaborative study; the terms of reference for the collaborative study; the timeframe for the collaborative study; and the reason the downgrading of the emergency department of St. Columcille’s Hospital was announced before the conclusion of the collaborative study. [30163/11]

Stephen S. Donnelly

Question:

537 Deputy Stephen Donnelly asked the Minister for Health, with regard to the ongoing collaborative study on smaller hospitals and any consultation ongoing as part of that process, or that will follow on from it, the person who is being or will be consulted as part of this consultation; the patient representative or public representative groups that are being or will be consulted; the elected public representatives that are being or will be consulted; the mechanism for persons or groups to feed into the consultation process; and the timeframe for the consultation process. [30164/11]

Stephen S. Donnelly

Question:

539 Deputy Stephen Donnelly asked the Minister for Health the steps being taken to increase capacity at the emergency department at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin, in view of the recent numbers of patients on trolleys in the department; the steps being taken to ensure that the department is capable of dealing with the additional volume which will arise from the changes to St. Columcille’s emergency department; the number of additional acute beds being made available in St. Vincent’s Hospital to deal with the additional patient volume which will arise form the changes to St. Columcille’s emergency department; and when these beds will be operational. [30166/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 536, 537 and 539 together.

There is a joint HSE/Departmental group which is developing a framework for the future development of smaller hospitals with oversight from a steering group comprising of HSE and Departmental officials. No external consultants are being used for this process. Consultation covering all the key stakeholders including patients and public representatives, will be an integral part of the process and plans for the consultations required are currently under development and are expected to be completed shortly.

The three hospitals in the region (St. Michael's, St. Columcille's and St. Vincent's) are working together with the HSE to ensure that the appropriate level of service is provided in the best location to ensure clinical safety, quality and patient safety and to manage risk. No downgrading of the emergency department at St Columcille's hospital has been announced. Work has been ongoing for a number of months and transfer of services from one site to another will not occur until all patient safety issues and clinical issues are fully considered. Any future changes will take place within the context of the Clinical Programmes and the developing Framework for smaller hospitals.

Health Services

Stephen S. Donnelly

Question:

538 Deputy Stephen Donnelly asked the Minister for Health the targets in place for health care outcomes for County Wicklow; the targets in place for health care outcomes for the region being considered by the collaborative study that is currently assessing St. Columcille’s Hospital, County Dublin; the person who is accountable for meeting these targets and the measures that will be taken if they are not met; the reason there is no integrated health care strategy, including geographical analysis and targets for health care outcomes, for County Wicklow or the region; and if any such plan is being developed. [30165/11]

The detailed information requested by the Deputy in relation to service levels in County Wicklow has been requested from the Health Service Executive. When I have received this information I will be in further contact with the Deputy in relation to the issues raised by him.

Service delivery targets for the HSE are set out in the National Service Plan on a national basis and under some headings are broken down by the four HSE regions — Dublin North East (DNE), Dublin Mid-Leinster (DML), West and South. The targets for health care outcomes for Co. Wicklow would be a subset of the regional targets for the DML region.

Performance against these targets by region is reported in the monthly HSE Performance Report and Supplementary Report and are shown as rolled up regional figures. In the case of County Wicklow these would form part of the Dublin Mid-Leinster (DML) region and would be reported within DML's overall figures.

County Wicklow is covered by the two Local Health Offices (LHOs) — LHO Wicklow and LHO Kildare/West Wicklow. Overall Expenditure information for each LHO is shown on page 44 of the August Supplementary Performance Report. Staffing numbers (Whole-Time Equivalents or WTEs) and Absenteeism rates are shown on pages 54/56/58. St Columcille's Hospital is in the HSE region Dublin Mid-Leinster (DML). In the case of acute hospitals, performance against targets is shown on an individual hospital basis in the monthly Supplementary Report.

The HSE has just published the August Performance and Supplementary Reports on its web site. The Deputy might like to review this information while the more detailed information required by him is acquired from the HSE.

I have also sought further information from the HSE that may have been presented to the DMl Regional Health Forum. I will forward any relevant information received directly to the Deputy.

Question No. 539 answered with Question No. 536.

Appointments to State Boards

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

540 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Health the saving to the State if all State agency board members’ annual payments were rescinded and instead board membership was awarded without remuneration. [30258/11]

A total of €346,911 is currently payable annually in Exchequer-funded fees to board members of six of my Department's directly funded agencies.

Marine Salvage

Kevin Humphreys

Question:

541 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the legal position regarding salvage from shipwrecks containing precious metals (details supplied) within Irish territorial waters; if the State has a claim on any materials raised from the seabed; his views on amending the law to ensure companies or persons searching for wrecks for commercial exploitation should report any discoveries to him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29607/11]

The law of salvage and of finds is triggered when a person salvages or finds a wreck. If a wreck, including cargo and apparel, is salvaged or found within the territorial sea limits (c. 12 nautical miles) it must be made known to the Receiver of Wreck for the district in which it is found, and, if the owner is not known, given into the possession of the Receiver of Wreck.

If a wreck is found outside the territorial sea, whether the wreck is in the EEZ — Exclusive Economic Zone (c.200 nautical miles) or beyond, Irish law is triggered only if or when a salvor or finder brings the wreck into the State. The wreck to which the Deputy refers is located some 160 kilometres off the coast and is therefore outside the territorial waters of the State. Therefore the State has no claim on the cargo of this vessel. However, if the cargo is brought from the vessel located outside the territorial waters of the State into the State it is subject to normal Customs rules.

The law of salvage and wreck is governed by the the International Convention on Salvage 1989 and this is implemented in Ireland by the Merchant Shipping (Salvage and Wreck) Act 1993. The law seeks to protect the interests of salvors, owners and the State. As well as the provisions of the 1993 Act, the National Monuments (Amendment) Act 1987 provides that an underwater Heritage Order may be made to designate any wreck or site of a wreck on account of its historical, archaeological, or artistic importance. This falls within the remit of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

Salvage of wreck in the territorial waters is rewarded in line with criteria set out in the 1993 Act. Wreck includes precious metals whether cargo or vessel apparel. Salvaged wreck remains the property of the owner and must be returned to the owner after salvage. Companies as well as all other persons must report all wreck discovered in the territorial waters of the State. If, when the wreck is discovered, the ownership is known, the person who makes the discovery may agree with the owner terms for salvage. The contract between a salvor and owner is governed by contract law, separate from the provisions of the 1993 Act.

If a wreck is discovered within the territorial waters of the State and the owner of wreck is not known, the finder must deliver the find to the Receiver of Wreck for the district in which the wreck was found. If the Receiver cannot establish ownership, the wreck becomes the property of the State. The Director of the National Museum will decide if such wreck has historical, archaeological, or artistic importance and may retain the wreck or part of it on behalf of the State. In such instances, salvors are paid reward by the Director in accordance with the circumstances of the case. If the Director decides not to retain such wreck, the Receiver will sell the wreck and pay the proceeds to the State, after payment of salvage reward and expenses to the salvor or finder.

Renewable Energy

Simon Harris

Question:

542 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the 2011 report of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland and the Irish Maritime Development Office on renewable energy opportunities; his plans to implement the recommendations of the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29677/11]

Simon Harris

Question:

562 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will make funding available in 2012 for port development along the east coast in order to facilitate the renewable energy opportunities outlined in the 2011 report of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland and the Irish Maritime Development Office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29675/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 542 and 562 together.

The report referred to by the Deputy provides a very useful overview of the port and shipping services currently available in Ireland to support the development of the offshore energy sector. However, it also highlights that the sector is at an early stage of development and faces considerable challenges.

I welcome the proactive approach already being taken in this area by a number of the Irish ports around the coast.

The State owned port companies are expected to fund themselves on a commercial basis. The policy going back to 2005 has been that infrastructure developments in the ports should be funded either through the companies own resources, or in conjunction with private sector partners. It is unlikely that this position will change for the foreseeable future, particularly in the current budgetary climate.

My Department is at the final stage of a review of national ports policy. This review will cover all aspects of current policy, including the issue of funding. I hope to publish a revised policy statement in the coming months.

Road Traffic Offences

Kevin Humphreys

Question:

543 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide a list of the road traffic Acts that apply to cyclists; the specific road traffic offences that apply to cyclists; his views on whether there is sufficient legislation in place to regulate cyclist behaviour; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29458/11]

Kevin Humphreys

Question:

544 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the road traffic legislation and penalties that apply specifically to cyclists who cycle on footpaths, cycle through red lights, or cycle the wrong way on a one-way street; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29459/11]

Kevin Humphreys

Question:

545 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the penalties that apply to cyclists for failure to display proper lighting as documented in Statutory Instrument No. 189/1963, Road Traffic (Lighting of Vehicles) Regulations 1963; if his attention has been drawn to any prosecutions that have taken place to enforce this legislation since 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29460/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 543 to 545, inclusive, together.

Regrettably, the use of our roads — whether by motorists, cyclists or pedestrians — can never be risk free and the safety of all vulnerable road users is a matter of concern for me.

All bicycles used on public roads in Ireland are required to comply with the Road Traffic (Lighting of Vehicles) Regulations, which was most recently amended by Statutory Instrument S.I 487/2009.

Where a person is guilty of an offence under these regulations, the penalties for such an offence are set out in the Road Traffic Act 2006. The penalty for a first offence is a fine not exceeding €1,000, for a second offence a fine not exceeding €2,000 and for a third or subsequent offence a fine not exceeding €2,000 and/or a term of imprisonment not exceeding 3 months

I will arrange to forward to the Deputy details of all road traffic regulations relating to cyclists. However, it should be noted that as a class of road user specified in legislation, cyclists are required to observe road traffic legislation in the same manner as other road users. The enforcement of road traffic regulations generally is a matter for An Garda Síochána and my Department has no information, nor does it maintain statistics, on the level of prosecutions brought to court.

Cycling Facilities

Kevin Humphreys

Question:

546 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to make it mandatory to sell bicycles with legally compliant lights, as outlined in the National Cycle Policy Framework 2009-2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29461/11]

Kevin Humphreys

Question:

547 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he is conducting a review of road traffic legislation that affects cycling, as outlined in the National Cycle Policy Framework 2009-2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29462/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 546 and 547 together.

The National Cycle Policy is a broad framework aimed at providing a common, integrated basis for the long term development and implementation of cycling policies. Within that, my priority in 2011, in line with the Programme for Government, is to support investment in delivery. For example, investment in infrastructure designed to enhance cycling facilities and funding to deliver improved cycling infrastructure all over the country was boosted this year under the Jobs Initiative Smarter Travel funding programme.

Where legislative change is needed to support this it will be developed where appropriate.

On the other hand, all bicycles used on public roads in Ireland are already required to comply with the Road Traffic (Lighting of Vehicles) Regulations. I do not have immediate proposals to require that bikes can only be sold with legally compliant lights. We have, however, raised awareness of the need for appropriate lights and other aids to visibility. It is an area I will keep under review and will liaise with the Deputy on.

Kevin Humphreys

Question:

548 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will amend road traffic regulations to allow Dublinbikes service vehicles to use bus lanes when reallocating bicycles around the city; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29463/11]

Bus lanes were introduced at the taxpayer's expense to provide on-street priority for public transport. It was, therefore, decided that, besides buses and emergency vehicles, the only road users permitted access should be taxis (as public service vehicles available for on-street hire) and bicyclists (as vulnerable road users). Over the years, my Department has received numerous requests to open bus lanes to various other categories of road users, including motorcycles, multi-occupancy cars, limousines, hackneys and animal ambulances. All such requests have been refused.

On foot of a recommendation from the Joint Committee on Environment, Transport, Culture and Gaeltacht, I have looked at the case for allowing vehicles servicing the Dublin City bike scheme to use bus lanes, and I think that prima facie they are in a rather different position from those categories of vehicle for which my Department has refused access to bus lanes. In examining the case for their inclusion, one consideration is the impact that allowing any additional category of vehicles to use bus lanes will inevitably have on the efficiency of these lanes for their original purpose. A second consideration is that allowing bike service vehicles to use these lanes would tie in with existing policy, given that bicyclists are among those already allowed to use bus lanes. For these reasons, I am giving this proposal serious consideration.

Kevin Humphreys

Question:

549 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if there are minimum standards to which a bicycle lane must be maintained, such as quality and smoothness of pavement and markings; if not, his views on introducing a minimum standard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29464/11]

Under the 1993 Roads Act (Part 2, Section 13), local authorities have an obligation to maintain public roads. The maintenance of cycle ways and cycle tracks falls within this remit.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has completed work on a comprehensive design manual for the provision of cycle routes which provides a framework for the design and delivery of safe, cycle-friendly facilities to facilitate increased cycle usage and is available at www.cyclemanual.ie.

Public Transport

Michael McCarthy

Question:

550 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when a report on the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be made available by Bus Éireann; the reason for the delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29519/11]

The issue raised is a matter for Bus Éireann. I have referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please inform my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

Road Safety

Gerry Adams

Question:

551 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide any available statistics on road accidents in County Meath, particularly in the vicinity of Donacarney, Bettystown, Laytown and Mornington, in each of the past five years, including any fatalities recorded. [29533/11]

Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority has responsibility for the collection and compilation of statistics on road accidents.

I have referred the Deputy's question to the Road Safety Authority for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.

Public Transport

Peter Mathews

Question:

552 Deputy Peter Mathews asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the efficiency cost of changes to a bus route (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29554/11]

The issue raised is an operational matter for Dublin Bus in conjunction with the National Transport Authority.

I have referred the Deputy's question to Dublin Bus for direct reply. The Deputy should inform my private office if he does not receive a reply within ten working days.

Cycle Facilities

Ciara Conway

Question:

553 Deputy Ciara Conway asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide an update on the city bicycle scheme; when the scheme might be extended to Waterford; his plans for the scheme in Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29561/11]

Recognising the success of the Dublin bikes scheme, the Programme for Government commits my Department to look to extend the scheme to other cities and integrate the scheme more effectively with public transport links.

The National Transport Authority has, at my request, had an initial analysis of the potential for similar bikes schemes in the regional cities carried out. My Department and the NTA are currently considering the findings of that analysis including how to address key issues identified such as the changed commercial environment to that pertaining when the Dublin bikes scheme was negotiated and different characteristics of scheme provision in smaller cities. I am committed to exploring a range of mechanisms to seek to secure public bike schemes in other cities and work is ongoing in that regard. However I will keep the Deputy informed of all ongoing developments relating to city bike schemes.

Tourism Industry

Dominic Hannigan

Question:

554 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of tourist offices that Fáilte Ireland operates here; the location of same; the number of employees per site; the amount of turnover per site; the cost of each site per year including rent, utility bills and associated costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29634/11]

Dominic Hannigan

Question:

555 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if Fáilte Ireland has proposals to close down any tourist offices by the end of 2011 or during 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29635/11]

Dominic Hannigan

Question:

556 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has had any meetings with or communication from Fáilte Ireland outlining its plans for the network of tourist offices here; if the current number of offices is feasible to maintain under the current economic conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29636/11]

Dominic Hannigan

Question:

557 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if any study has been undertaken to ascertain the economic value to a town or historical site of a tourist office and the economic impact the withdrawal of a tourist office would have on a town or historical site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29637/11]

Dominic Hannigan

Question:

558 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the criteria Fáilte Ireland uses when deciding the location of a tourist office; the criteria it uses when deciding if an open tourist office is viable; the criteria it uses when deciding to close a tourist office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29638/11]

Dominic Hannigan

Question:

559 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his attention has been drawn to plans to close down tourist offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29639/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 554 to 559, inclusive, together.

Fáilte Ireland operates an extensive network of Tourism Information Offices throughout the country. Each office has travel advisors to advise tourists when they are planning a holiday and to provide on the spot assistance and information to tourists when they arrive in a particular location. The management and staffing of the offices, their opening hours and their locations are administrative matters for Fáilte Ireland.

Fáilte Ireland has over recent years reconfigured service delivery, reshaped its services and prioritised the locations where Tourism Information Offices are provided in order to use its resources more efficiently. As part of this, Fáilte Ireland has been pursuing, where possible, the provision of tourism information offices by local communities and businesses. I have not discussed the operation of any specific Tourist Information Offices with Fáilte Ireland, although as part of the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure all options are being considered in terms of cost savings and future service provision. I have asked Fáilte Ireland to provide the Deputy with the detailed information he has requested. The Deputy should advise my private office if he does not receive a reply within ten working days.

Severe Weather Events

Simon Harris

Question:

560 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps that have been taken to prepare for severe weather events which may affect roads and other transport networks over the winter season; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29673/11]

The overall State response to severe weather events is led by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. The Review of the Severe Weather Event of 2010 published by that Department sets out a series of recommended measures, including a number for my Department and its agencies. The recommendations in respect of my Department are all being progressed.

My Department co-ordinates with its agencies our operational and communications response to severe weather. As part of the overall review, my Department and its agencies are putting in place the necessary actions to improve on our existing resilience to such events in the future. These actions include increased investment in snow clearing equipment by the Dublin Airport Authority to reduce the time it takes to clear the runways/aprons, special equipment to reduce snow impact on railway points, salt procurement and amendments to priority routes on our roads network to facilitate further public transport access. Our www.transport.ie website will continue to be used as a communications access portal in the event of a future event as part of our contribution towards effective customer service.

In relation to our roads network, the National Roads Authority (NRA) is co-ordinating the supply of de-icing salt for use on our road network. The NRA will have available a total of 140,000 tonnes for use on the national roads network, including 40,000 tonnes reserve stock for use on priority 1 Routes. Additionally 60,000 tonnes of de-icing salt will be available for use on regional and local roads.

I recently availed of savings in my Department to increase this year's Winter Maintenance Grant from €10 million to €11.25 million to assist local authorities with the costs associated with winter weather conditions on their priority road network routes. I have also organised a special transport winter preparedness meeting which is due to take place in the coming days, involving all the key transport agencies of my Department, to update me on the plans of each operator.

Sports Funding

Simon Harris

Question:

561 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport how he envisages sports funding for local councils will be administered in the absence of local sports officers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29674/11]

The administration of funding by local councils is a matter for the councils and I have no role in that regard. The Irish Sports Council has responsibility for Local Sports Partnership funding and I have referred the question to them for direct reply in relation to that funding. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a reply has not been received within ten days.

Question No. 562 answered with Question No. 542.

Croke Park Agreement

Simon Harris

Question:

563 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding the Croke Park agreement; if he has received implementation plans for this agreement from his Department and each State agency under his remit; the status of these implementation plans; the discussion he has had with the EU and IMF regarding the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29692/11]

The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport has no role in relation to the implementation of the detailed actions plans under the Public Service Agreement 2010-2014 for other Government Departments. The second phase of progress reporting on the Agreement in respect of both my Department and the non-commercial semi-state agencies under my aegis is under way at present and will be submitted to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, who will then submit sectoral reports to the Implementation Body during October. The Implementation body will examine and publish the sectoral reports on its website (www.implementationbody.gov.ie). With respect to discussions with the EU and IMF in respect of the agreement, this would be a matter for the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.

Safety at Sports Grounds

John Lyons

Question:

564 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he is satisfied with the safety standards within the adventure sports sector — specifically, outdoor adventure centres catering for water sports activities; if there are any statutory safety guidelines in place to which this sector must adhere; if providers are required to register with a statutory authority as providers of certain specified adventure sports and/or activities; and if he will introduce further regulation, such as a set of safety guidelines, to enhance the safety provision in this area. [29729/11]

The Adventure Activities Standards Authority Act, 2001 made provision for the establishment by the Minister for Marine and Natural Resources of an Adventure Activities Standards Authority. However, I am informed that this body was not subsequently put in place. I have now asked officials in my Department to examine the implications of the legislation and to consider what might now be the best approach to ensuring that safety standards are maintained in the adventure sports sector.

Local Authority Expenditure

Pádraig Mac Lochlainn

Question:

565 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will confirm that town and county councils will have to pay for the salt they receive from the National Roads Authority; and if this cost will correspond with the costs accrued by the NRA in acquiring the salt. [29741/11]

The arrangements for the purchase and distribution of salt are a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA). Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NRA for direct reply. The Deputy should advise my private office if he does not receive a reply within 10 working days.

Road Network

Dessie Ellis

Question:

566 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when he will make funding available to complete the constraints study for a new road at Kilkelly, County Mayo, and a motorway from Achrony in County Sligo to Knock in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29757/11]

As Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The planning, design and implementation of individual national road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NRA for direct reply. The Deputy should advise my private office if he does not receive a reply within 10 working days.

National Car Test

Dessie Ellis

Question:

567 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the time allotted to testing cars at national car test centres in recent weeks has been reduced by the company from 35 minutes per car to less than 20 minutes per car; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29758/11]

Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has overall responsibility for the operation, oversight, development, quality assurance and delivery of vehicle testing arrangements. The testing function is currently carried out by Applus+ under a contractual arrangement with the RSA, who exercise a supervisory role to ensure that the service provided by Applus+ conforms to the conditions of that contract. The RSA continuously monitors Applus+ performance and has regular meetings with them to ensure compliance with contract requirements. To assist the RSA in carrying out this role, the Authority has appointed external contractors to monitor performance by Applus+, and who report regularly to the RSA.

I understand from the RSA that Applus+ has confirmed to them that booking slots have not been reduced to 20 minutes. The shortest slots are in large volume centres and have an average duration of 28 minutes. Activity at some NCT test centres declined during the current quarter due to a drop in demand allied to an increase in the number of owners failing to keep appointments ("no shows"). This situation arises every year and, as in previous years, Applus+ has increased the average number of appointments at 7 centres to minimise its impact. In these centres the time allocated per slot, for a test with an average duration of 20 minutes, has been reduced from 35 minutes to 32.5 minutes. Time slots at other centres are unaffected and those in the affected centres will revert to 35 minutes in January when demand increases and the number of "no shows" decreases.

Pension Provisions

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

568 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the saving to the Exchequer if all existing public service pension payments to former employees of State agencies under the aegis of his Department were capped at €35,000 per year. [29788/11]

I have asked the State agencies under the aegis of my Department to provide the Deputy with the information requested. If the Deputy does not receive a reply within ten working days, she should contact my private office.

Road Network

Dominic Hannigan

Question:

569 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, further to Parliamentary Question No. 587 of 27 September 2011, if he will provide a copy of the traffic forecasts that were prepared for the National Roads Authority in respect of the M3 public private partnership scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29872/11]

As outlined previously in my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 587 of 27 September 2011, the implementation of individual national road projects, including the M3 PPP scheme, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993-2007. Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NRA for direct reply. The Deputy should advise my private office if he does not receive a reply within 10 working days.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

570 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the current standard of the road surface in terms of noise reduction on the M4 from Leixlip to Kilcock in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29925/11]

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to national roads. The construction, improvement and maintenance of individual national roads, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. Noting this I have referred the Deputy's question to the NRA for direct reply. The Deputy should advise my private office if he does not receive a reply within 10 working days.

Tourism Industry

John Deasy

Question:

571 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the funding available from him for new tourism initiatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29960/11]

There is provision in 2011 for expenditure of almost €148 million on tourism services across a diverse range of activities such as marketing, tourism product development, registration and grading, business supports and tourism information offices. All of these monies are voted for use by the State tourism agencies, Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland and the Shannon Free Airport Development Company. I have referred the Deputy's question to these agencies for direct reply concerning funding available for new tourism initiatives. The Deputy should advise my private office if he does receive a reply within ten working days.

Harbours and Piers

Tom Barry

Question:

572 Deputy Tom Barry asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will confirm the funding available to complete repairs to Lower Aghada pier, County Cork; and if there is a timescale for the commencement of work. [29980/11]

Under the 1946 Harbours Act, I have responsibility for Four Regional Harbours. As Aghada Pier is the responsibility of Cork County Council who are under the remit of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government I have no function in the provision of finance for this matter.

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