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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 16 Nov 2011

Vol. 746 No. 4

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 17, inclusive, answered orally.

Special Educational Needs

Seán Crowe

Question:

18 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24 who after winning an appeal under section 29 of the Education Act 1998, for additional special needs assistant support in July, is still waiting for the increase in SNA classroom hours to be implemented; the number of similar cases there are in which children who have won their appeal are still awaiting the agreed supports. [34851/11]

Section 29 of the Education Act provides for an appeal to be taken against a refusal to enrol a child in a recognised school, however, such appeals do not consider the level of supports or resources applying to schools.

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible for allocating Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) to schools. A Section 29 appeal for this child, who was partially enrolled, was upheld in July of this year. The NCSE was requested by the school to reconsider the allocation of SNA support which had been made for this child with a view to increasing the allocation. This request was made subsequent to the school having been advised of its SNA allocation for the coming school year, which is 7.74 SNA posts.

A decision in respect of the application for increased SNA support for the school concerned, to take into account this child's increased attendance, is expected shortly. As the child is not attending school on a full-time basis the NCSE will prioritise this application. In the interim the school should be in a position to provide for the child's care needs from their existing level of SNA support, pending the outcome of this application.

Higher Education Participation

John Browne

Question:

19 Deputy John Browne asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he is committed to expanding participation in higher education in order for Ireland to achieve its ambitions for recovery and development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34752/11]

Ireland currently performs very strongly in terms of participation in higher education and has the highest tertiary attainment rate among 25-34 year olds in the European Union. Projections published by my Department in June of this year show that the demand for higher education in Ireland is set to grow by 62% in the next twenty years.

While welcome, the scale of projected growth will present major challenges for Ireland's higher education system in ensuring that student numbers can be accommodated in a sustainable way that does not compromise high quality outcomes.

The National Strategy for Higher Education makes a number of recommendations for system development, flexibility, efficiency and change aimed at supporting sustainable growth. Implementation of strategy recommendations is underway and as part of this the HEA has just completed an initial report on system sustainability with respect to numbers growth, funding and quality. This is now under consideration.

Institutes of Technology

John McGuinness

Question:

20 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Skills the progress made on the proposed new Dublin Institute of Technology, Grangegorman campus; when this project will proceed to the next stage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34779/11]

The Government has published details of capital funding available to my Department for the period 2012-2016. The level of funding available for Exchequer investment in higher education infrastructure provides only for funding projects where legally binding contractual commitments exist. While a master plan has been agreed for the Grangegorman project, work to date on the project has not advanced to the point of irrevocable contractual commitment. The Government is committed to the long term future of this project. It has decided to advance initially with planning towards a PPP project for completion around 2017 and to plan for subsequent projects where construction targeted to begin post 2017.

Officials from my Department will meet shortly with the Grangegorman Development Agency, Dublin Institute of Technology and the Higher Education Authority to discuss these matters and options for the next steps to progress the project having regard to the budgetary position.

Special Educational Needs

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

21 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide a list including dates of all planned reviews of special needs assistants for schools before the end of 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34845/11]

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible for allocating Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) to schools in accordance with my Department's policy.

Over the summer, the NCSE has advised all mainstream schools of their SNA allocations in respect of valid applications received by 17th June.

The NCSE retained 475 out of the total 10,575 SNA posts available in order to allocate them to valid applications received since 17th June, in respect of cases such as emergency, appeals, injuries, or new school entrants. The process of allocating these posts has begun.

The NCSE have advised that they expect approximately 300 of the 475 retained posts to have been allocated to schools by the end of November. A number of posts will be required to be retained for allocation during the remainder of the school year.

The NCSE is currently reviewing SNA allocations for special schools and processing new applications from mainstream schools. As the dates and times for these reviews are arranged locally, my Department does not hold details of the dates for such reviews.

School Curriculum

Sandra McLellan

Question:

22 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the concerns surrounding the failure to implement the teaching of engineering technology and architectural technology, which are two of the four redesigned technology subjects in the engineering and technology syllabus that are supposed to be taught at leaving certificate level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34866/11]

Revised Leaving Certificate syllabi were submitted by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment in relation to the four Leaving Certificate technology subjects in 2004. Two of these subjects, Technology and Design and Graphic Communications were introduced in September 2007. The remaining two subjects, Leaving Certificate Engineering Technology and Architectural Technology are awaiting implementation.

Both subjects require significant investment in equipment and professional development for teachers, and the resources for this are not available at the current time. The major priorities for the present government are to proceed with the maths and Irish reforms which are under way, to strengthen literacy and numeracy, and reform junior cycle provision to allow for greater creativity and innovation, embedding key skills and addressing curriculum overload.

While I agree that it would be desirable to implement the revised Leaving Certificate Engineering Technology and Architectural Technology curricula, it is also essential to have sustained and cumulative reductions in public expenditure over the coming years.

Third Level Charges

Seamus Kirk

Question:

23 Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Education and Skills if instructions will be issued to all higher education institutions to accept student contributions by instalment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34772/11]

In recognition of the financial pressures that the student contribution may place on families, my Department, through the Higher Education Authority requested higher education institutions to consider putting in place arrangements under which a student may opt to pay the student contribution in two instalments in a given academic year.

While I understand from the HEA that a small number of institutions do not yet offer this facility due to technical systems limitations, all institutions have been requested to accommodate students who present with financial difficulties on a case by case basis and, from the academic year 2012/13 onwards, to have systems in place that allow for the payment of the student contribution in instalments.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

24 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Skills the way he arrives at the pupil-teacher ratio; and the ratio of class teachers to pupils excluding administration, principals and special education [34725/11]

The Pupil Teacher Ratio is compiled by dividing the total number of pupils by the total number of allocated teaching posts. For 2010/2011 the PTR at primary level was 15.7 and at second level it was 13.6. The number of mainstream pupils divided by the number of mainstream class teachers is referred to as the Average Class Size. In 2010/11 the Average Class Size at first level was 23.9. When including special class pupils that are integrated into mainstream classes for part of the day the Average Class Size was 24.3. Average Class Size is not available at second level.

Question No. 25 answered with Question No. 15.

Proposed Legislation

Michael Moynihan

Question:

26 Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the drafting of the Residential Institution Statutory Fund Bill; if he will ensure that the concerns outlined at a meeting in July 2011 with a number of groups will be given further detailed consideration before the drafting process is complete; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34781/11]

Work is progressing on the drafting of the Residential Institutions Statutory Fund Bill. I had a very constructive meeting with groups representing survivors of residential institutional abuse on 22nd July last, when we discussed the Government's approach to the proposed Statutory Fund to support the needs of victims of residential institutional abuse. Attendees at that meeting raised a number of issues regarding aspects of the proposed approach as set out in the General Scheme of the Residential Institutions Statutory Fund Bill. I have also received a number of submissions from groups and individuals in relation to the proposed legislation. The various views expressed are being considered as the drafting process continues.

Special Educational Needs

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

27 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Skills the average annual cost per pupil in the period to December 2010 incurred by him in the 125 plus special schools throughout the country. [34870/11]

I wish to advise the Deputy that the staffing of special schools is determined by reference to the recommendations outlined in the Report of the Special Education Review Committee, 1993, also known as the SERC Report. The pupil to teacher staffing ratios in Special Schools range from 6:1 to 11:1, depending on the category of disability. The allocation of Special Needs Assistants per special school class also varies, depending on the disability categorisation of the class, and the individual needs of pupils. The staffing ratios for special schools in respect of the various disability categorisations, based on SERC recommendations, are set out in my Departments Circular 0038/2010.

Given the different suppports involved it is difficult to estimate a definitive average cost per pupil of pupils attending special schools. The approximate cost per pupil attending Special Schools in respect of teaching, Special Needs Assistant and capitation costs is €22,185 per pupil per annum. Additional costs relating to school buildings, transport and assistive technology support also arise and are not included in this figure.

Vocational Education Committees

Micheál Martin

Question:

28 Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Education and Skills the criteria applied in selecting the head offices for the proposed new vocational education committee entities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34773/11]

Michael McGrath

Question:

38 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he proposes to designate any other existing vocational education committees head offices as sub-offices for the new VEC entities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34778/11]

Dessie Ellis

Question:

46 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Education and Skills if there is any opportunity or mechanism for local vocational education committees to challenge the application of the criteria used to decide the location of headquarters of the new amalgamated VECs; if he is open to alternative proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34860/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 28, 38 and 46 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.

In addition to the head offices which I have announced, I have decided to maintain a number of sub offices where staff redeployment from the head office of an existing VEC to the head office of the relevant Education and Training Board is precluded because of the distance requirements provided for under the Croke Park agreement.

I expect that while headquarters staff employed in offices which have not been designated as a head office or a sub office of an Education and Training Board will move to the designated headquarters location as soon as feasible, these offices will remain open for some time and the approach to redeployment will be measured and considered.

I am anxious to ensure that swift progress continues to be made in the work of bringing about a reduction in the number of VECs. In this regard, while my decision in relation to the locations of head offices and sub offices is final, I want to make clear that my Department will not be forcing any one size fits all approach to staff deployment and office accommodation by the new Education and Training Boards. I will be receptive to any reasonable and sensible arrangements that are the best fit for the needs of the areas served by the new board.

School Curriculum

Catherine Murphy

Question:

29 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he is committed to continuing the applied leaving certificate; if it has contributed to a reduction in drop out rates; if so the rate by which this is so; if a calculation has been made on the cost of providing services to those who drop out of school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34726/11]

I am committed to the continuation of the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme.

The Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) was introduced to schools in 1995, designed to address the needs of students who would not be progressing directly to higher education, and for whom the established Leaving Certificate is unsuitable. The rate of early school leaving at that time, as evidenced in the 1996 ESRI Annual School Leaver Survey of 94/95 leavers was 19.2%.

The latest ESRI School Leavers Survey was published in 2007 of 2004/5 leavers, and shows an early leaving rate of 14%. In May 2011 my Department published a report on retention rates to completion of Leaving Certificate showing an early school leaving rate of 12% overall, in terms of the proportion who began their second level schooling in 2004 and completed it by 2010.

While the improvements in retention rates cannot be attributed uniquely to the Leaving Certificate Applied, the programme has played a very important role in providing an active and vocationally oriented learning programme which has been successful in stimulating and engaging learners at risk, and enabling them to complete senior cycle.

The unit cost of a place on a Youthreach programme for early school leavers is estimated at €18,553 per annum.

Third Level Grants

Clare Daly

Question:

30 Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Education and Skills if, in line with the position he took when in opposition, he will repeal the change introduced in May 2010 by the former Government regarding eligibility for student grant applications for third level colleges, specifically that the applicant must be resident here for three of the previous five years prior to application whether or not they are Irish citizens. [34732/11]

The issue to which the Deputy refers relates to the change in the residence requirement in the student grant schemes for the 2010/11 academic year. From the start of that academic year, the residence requirement to be met by a student in order to qualify for the maintenance grant was changed from a one-year requirement to have been living in the State directly prior to attending college, to a more flexible requirement of three out of the previous five years for the student.

I understand that the main purpose of the change was to ensure that persons applying for grants would have more established links with and integration into the State and, in many instances that the change provides greater flexibility for students who may be returning from abroad.

The residence requirement must be met by the student himself or herself in all cases and is no longer linked to the residence of the parent or legal guardian of the student. Save where a student has been studying abroad, there are no exceptions made for particular groups — the requirement is applied equally to all.

In addition to the increased flexibility introduced by allowing residence to be counted over the five years prior to entering college, a student may now also meet the residence requirement during the course of their studies in order to qualify for a grant. In the past, if a student did not meet the residence requirement on entry to a course, this could not be reassessed even if the requirement could subsequently be met during the course of their studies.

Now, all students are treated equally with regard to meeting the residence requirement. All students have greater flexibility in meeting the "three out of five" years requirement. And, even students who fail to meet the "three out of five" years at initial registration can now reapply in the course of their studies once they have met the residence requirement. I have no plans to change these arrangements.

Vocational Education Committees

Catherine Murphy

Question:

31 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans in relation to the enhanced training obligations on the vocational education committee sector; the resources that will be transferred in order to meet those new obligations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34727/11]

The Government decided in July 2011 that there would be a major restructuring of the Further Education and Training sector. This will involve the creation of a new authority called SOLAS, under the aegis of the Department of Education and Skills, to be responsible for the coordination and funding of the sector.

The restructuring will lead to the transfer over time of some 700 staff from FÁS training division, and the FÁS training centre premises, to the vocational education committees (VEC), who will ultimately be responsible for the delivery to the public in an integrated way of public further education and training services.

Schools Building Projects

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

32 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which he expects the school building programme to proceed in the coming year with particular reference to the urgently emerging needs of areas in which there is a demand arising from increased population requiring new buildings and facilities or when obsolete or out-dated structures are in need of replacement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34849/11]

The Deputy will be aware that the Government's Medium Term Infrastructure and Capital Investment Framework was published on the 10th of November. It includes an allocation for education capital of just over €2.2bn over the five years of the plan — an average annual allocation of just over €440m.

Total enrolment in both primary and post-primary schools is expected to grow by almost 70,000 between now and 2018 (over 45,000 at primary level and 25,000 at post primary) and will continue to grow up to at least 2024 at post-primary level.

The priority is now to focus on major school projects and smaller projects devolved to schools to meet the demographic demands. The primary aim will be to ensure that every child will have access to a school place.

With regard to the 2012 school building programme, I have previously committed to publishing details of this programme next month.

School Refurbishment

Willie O'Dea

Question:

33 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Education and Skills when the minor works grant payments will issue to schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34785/11]

I announced last Thursday that a minor works grant is being made available for the school year 2011/2012 in the amount of €28m. This grant will be paid to primary schools in the coming weeks.

Departmental Properties

Eamonn Maloney

Question:

34 Deputy Eamonn Maloney asked the Minister for Education and Skills in relation to the public swimming pool built in 1976 which is still in the ownership of his Department and is in need of refurbishment, the works programme that will be initiated to ensure that this popular local facility after 35 years can remain operational. [34724/11]

Sports complexes attached to a small number of Community and Comprehensive Schools, including the school to which the Deputy refers, were established in the early 1970s on the basis that they would operate on a self-financing basis.

In recent times, the complex at the school in question has experienced some difficulty in matching its operating costs and its income. Accordingly, the Board of Management, in consultation with the Trustees, has agreed to develop a business plan with a view to balancing the accounts of the sports complex and thereby ensure its continued viability.

My Department has been kept informed by the Board of Management on the issues involved, and will support the Board and the Trustees in their efforts.

Given the constraints on the level of capital funding available, the Government has to prioritise school building projects and the very real need to ensure that every child has access to a school place. It is unlikely, therefore, that funding will be available for the works referred to by the Deputy in the foreseeable future.

School Curriculum

Gerry Adams

Question:

35 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reasons science is not one of the specified subjects in the proposed new junior cycle as set out in Towards A Framework for Junior Cycle, which was launched by him on 3 November in view of his stated intention to develop Ireland as a knowledge-based economy. [34862/11]

I have endorsed the broad thrust of the proposals on junior cycle reform submitted to me by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment in October 2011 following an extensive consultation process. What is proposed is a general framework which is a first step in the reform process, and the detailed implications have yet to be considered. The question of whether science will be compulsory will be discussed by my officials with the partners in education as part of consideration of the implementation issues.

At present science is studied by 90% of the cohort in junior cycle. While the importance of science in the knowledge society is fully appreciated, other factors have also to be considered such as the importance of curriculum choice in encouraging increased retention rates, the need to cater for a diverse range of interests in schools, and to avoid an erosion of the practical subjects, particularly for weaker students.

In-service Training

Barry Cowen

Question:

36 Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he is committed to maintaining supports for the leaving certificate applied programme in 2012 in view of his recent decision not to sanction the professional development service for teachers national co-ordinator post. [34762/11]

The Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST) National Coordinator post for support for the Leaving Cert Applied (LCA) programme in post-primary schools was vacated at the start of this school year. Given recent changing priorities and developments in relation to continuing professional development (CPD), notably my Department's literacy and numeracy strategy, as well as pressure on personnel numbers, it is not intended to fill the National Coordinator vacancy at the present time. However, the levels of resources including personnel available to the PDST are being increased for the 2011/2012 school year.

The PDST was established to provide the organisational structures and the flexibility necessary to respond to changing need. The key task of the PDST is to build capacity at all levels within the organisation and among teachers but in particular at advisor and associate level to ensure that CPD needs can be identified and responded to in an effective way within the resources provided. Service in the LCA area in continuing, with the co-ordination of activities taken over by other personnel within the PDST and with the professional side (i.e course content/delivery/training of facilitators etc) handled by the 2 PDST advisors who are currently working in this area.

The PDST have prepared a comprehensive programme of support for schools engaged in the LCA programme in the current year which includes sessions for new schools and new LCA coordinators and a number of workshops, whole staff supports and web based supports amongst other items. They are also actively looking at further developing their network of part time personnel to further expand the proposed provision. The PDST are currently looking at their organisational structure with a view to creating a service which will have the necessary capacity in terms of planning, leadership, management, programme design, research, pedagogy and communications systems to meet the current and emerging needs of the education system and the priorities of government educational policies.

Institutes of Technology

Sandra McLellan

Question:

37 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on the possible redesignation of Waterford Institute of Technology to the enhanced status of a technological university. [34867/11]

As part of the implementation of the National Strategy for Higher Education, I have asked the Higher Education Authority (HEA) for their formal advice on final appropriate performance criteria against which amalgamated institutes of technology can be assessed for designation to technological university status. Following consideration of advice received from HEA, I intend to publish the designation criteria and the process arrangements before the end of December. Once a process is in place it will be open to institutes of technology to come together to make applications for consideration for re-designation. All applications, including any involving Waterford Institute of Technology, will be considered under an independent assessment process. This is a necessary pre-requisite of upholding the quality and international reputation of the overall higher education system.

Question Nos. 38 answered with Question No. 28.

Special Educational Needs

Luke 'Ming' Flanagan

Question:

39 Deputy Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he can facilitate the creation of proper schooling for children with special needs in the necessary areas in view of the fact that it costs €1,800 a week in taxi fares to transport a child with autism to proper teachers and facilities which seems like an extreme waste of scarce resources in hard economic times and also causes unnecessary stress on students with special needs; if he will investigate this waste and consider providing the appropriate teachers in schools closer to the students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34730/11]

The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), through the local special educational needs organisers (SENOs), is responsible for processing applications from primary and post primary schools for special educational needs supports. This includes applications for the establishment of special classes. The NCSE operates within the Department's criteria in allocating such support. In the context of the case referred to by the Deputy the NCSE has had further discussions with a post primary school with a view to establishing a special class and the SENO in the area will continue to progress the issue.

Pearse Doherty

Question:

40 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has carried out an assessment of the allocation and demand for special needs assistant support in view of the fact that schools are nearly three months into the new term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34852/11]

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. This number is 10,575 whole time equivalent (WTE) posts.

The NCSE advised all mainstream schools of their SNA allocations for the 2011/12 school year and published statistical information in relation to the allocation of SNA 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 at www.ncse.ie. The NCSE is currently reviewing SNA allocations for special schools and also considering new applications for SNA support received from mainstream schools since September. The NCSE retained 475 SNA posts in order to allocate them over the current school year in cases such as emergency, appeals, acquired injuries or new school entrants with care needs. The allocation of the 475 SNA posts is underway.

It is expected that the bulk of the posts will be distributed to schools by the end of November while a number of posts will be retained for allocation throughout the remainder of the school year. It is considered that with equitable and careful management and distribution of the significant level of SNA resources being provided, that there will be sufficient posts to provide access to SNA support for all children who require such care support to attend school, in accordance with my Department's criteria.

School Staffing

Gerry Adams

Question:

41 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills if plans are in place to cut 1,500-2,000 second level teaching posts; and if this will mean less subject choice for schools and higher pupil-teacher ratios. [34863/11]

Mick Wallace

Question:

53 Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on the fact that a decrease in teacher numbers at second level would result in a reduction in the number of subjects available to students, prevent many students form reaching their full potential, and is particularly unfeasible in the current climate in view of the anticipated 10% increase in the student population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34846/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 41 and 53 together.

I do not propose to give any specific commitment on the overall number of teaching posts in the education sector or on any changes to the pupil teacher ratio and the impact it could have. These are issues that I am considering with my colleagues in Cabinet in the context of the forthcoming budget discussions 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 back into line with what we can afford as a country. The challenge will be to ensure that the resources that are provided to schools are used by them to maximum effect in terms of providing an appropriate range of subjects and in delivering the best possible outcomes for their pupils.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

42 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has assessed the problems facing many schools resulting from the moratorium on posts of responsibility; and the number of posts that are waiting to be filled. [34873/11]

When the moratorium was introduced the Government exempted Principal and Deputy Principal posts in all primary and post-primary schools and these continue to be replaced in the normal manner. The impact of the moratorium is therefore limited to the Director of Adult Education, Assistant Principal and Special Duties allowances payable to teachers on promotion. Vacancies at this level arise due to retirements in the specific grades and typically also from the knock on effect of filling Principal and Deputy Principal posts.

Some further limited alleviation was announced in August 2011 for schools that are acutely affected by the impact of the moratorium at Assistant Principal level. The alleviation arrangements are set out in the published Department Circular 53/2011. Applications for alleviation have been received from 153 primary schools and 258 post primary schools. These are currently being examined and prioritised and the schools will be advised of the outcome in the coming weeks.

Special Educational Needs

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

43 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will confirm whether there is a requirement on the National Council for Special Education to ensure that places identified by special education needs organisers are appropriate for children with autism; and if this is a requirement, who precisely makes the final decision as to whether the placement identified is appropriate for the child. [34871/11]

As the Deputy is aware the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible for the provision of a range of educational services at local and national level for students with special educational needs. In particular, its network of Special Education Needs Organisers (SENOs) co-ordinates special needs education provision at local level and arranges for the delivery of special educational services including the approval of special classes for children with autism. The SENOs act as single points of contact for parents of students with special educational needs. Another specific function of the SENO is to identify 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.

My Department's policy is to provide for children with special educational needs, including autism, to be included in mainstream schools unless such a placement would not be in their best interests or the interests of the children with whom they are to be educated. Some children may be supported in a special class attached to a mainstream school. These students have the option, where appropriate, of full/partial integration and interaction with other pupils. Other children may have such complex needs that they are best placed in a special school. Students with special educational needs have access to a range of support services including additional teaching and/or care supports. In special schools and special classes, students are supported through lower pupil teacher ratios. Special needs assistants may also be recruited specifically where pupils with disabilities and significant care needs are enrolled.

The SENO can identify the available placements for children but the enrolment is a matter for the parents and the individual schools.

National Parks

Luke 'Ming' Flanagan

Question:

44 Deputy Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views that to date, there has been an error of omission in developing the Connemara National Park Interpretative Centre at Letterfrack, Connemara, County Galway, without any inclusion or reference to the history of the industrial institute which once occupied the site; if he will award part of the funding available to the memorial committee at his Department to help fund a memorial or other exhibit for the victims of the Letterfrack industrial institution, as per the initiative already undertaken by Child Aware (details supplied) [34731/11]

The provision of a Memorial to victims of abuse while in residential care was one of the recommendations of the Report of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse, which were unanimously accepted and supported by Dáil Éireann. A Committee was appointed to oversee the design and commissioning of the Memorial with a budget of up €0.5m. The competition for the Memorial is underway and I understand that the Committee will shortlist the entries, for Stage 2 of the competition, in the coming weeks.

The graveyard and some outbuildings of the former Letterfrack Industrial School lie within the Connemara National Park although the main school buildings lie outside the Park. The National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has facilitated and funded the enhancement of the graveyard, including the provision of appropriate signage, and the area is treated with dignity and respect and is cared for by NPWS staff who maintain it to the highest standards. Both the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and I are aware of the issues raised regarding the appropriate acknowledgement of the history of the School. This issue has been discussed between our relevant Departments and is currently being considered.

Departmental Expenditure

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

45 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he is satisfied that he will be in a position to retain the highest possible level of services throughout the educational sector while keeping in mind budgetary constraints and competing demands; if he expects to be in a position to retain core services including access to primary, secondary and third level education for all in view of the importance of the attainment of a high standard of education as a prelude to employment in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34848/11]

The condition of the country's finances mean that further difficult decisions will have to be taken by Government to reduce expenditure on public services. All sectors, including education, are being examined as part of the Comprehensive Expenditure Review and the full range of savings options identified as part of the Review will inform the Government's decisions in the Estimates process.

The options available to my Department to achieve further savings are constrained by several factors. These include:

The specific EU/IMF commitments and targets in relation to a reduction in the overall number of public servants on the payroll including teachers. Employees in the education sector account for close to one third of all employees in the public sector.

Some 77% of the expenditure by the Department of Education and Skills comprises public sector pay and pensions. Public sector pay is protected under the terms of the Croke Park Agreement.

The education sector is facing significant demographic pressures. The school going population is projected to increase by over 40,000 at primary level and by over 25,000 at post primary level over the next 6 years. Enrolments to higher education institutions are projected to increase by over 45,000 during the same period. There are also increased demands for further education and training places.

Savings are required in the Education Vote in order to support a number of planned reforms designed to improve the educational outcomes of all students and learners, a key priority for Government. Such reforms include the implementation of the Literacy and Numeracy Strategy, reform of the Junior Certificate curriculum, and the completion of the roll-out of 100 MB broadband to second level schools.

The Government is committed to protecting front line education services as far as possible and will strive to protect the most vulnerable at all levels of the education system, but we cannot underestimate the challenge ahead. The state of the country's finances mean that the education sector will have to contribute to the overall budgetary adjustment over the next four years 2012 to 2015. The scope for achieving such savings in the education sector is constrained by the factors I have outlined above.

Question No. 46 answered with Question No. 28.

Higher Education Grants

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

47 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Skills the date on which he intends to forward funding to local authority higher education grant departments to enable the latter to pay out awarded student contribution fees to universities. [34857/11]

Advance funding issued to grant awarding authorities in September of this year to enable the timely payment of student grants/student contributions and fees. Further funding will be made available, where needed, on foot of returns due from the grant awarding authorities later this month.

Question No. 48 answered with Question No. 17.

Pearse Doherty

Question:

49 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Education and Skills the rationale underlying the residency eligibility criteria for third level grant schemes as contained in section 4.1.1 of the higher education grants scheme; his views that the current criteria unfairly exclude returning Irish migrants from taking up valuable educational opportunities in the State that will enhance their employability; if there is any impediment in national or European law to amending the existing criteria to enable provision for returning Irish migrants who do not meet the criteria from accessing grant aid to engage in higher education; if he will introduce the necessary amendments in the eligibility criteria of the higher education grants scheme to achieve this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34853/11]

The issue to which the Deputy refers relates to the change in the residence requirement in the student grant schemes for the 2010/11 academic year. From the start of that academic year, the residence requirement to be met by a student in order to qualify for the maintenance grant was changed from a one-year requirement to have been living in the State directly prior to attending college, to a more flexible requirement of three out of the previous five years for the student.

I understand that the main purpose of the change was to ensure that persons applying for grants would have more established links with and integration into the State and, in many instances that the change provides greater flexibility for students who may be returning from abroad.

The residence requirement must be met by the student himself or herself in all cases and is no longer linked to the residence of the parent or legal guardian of the student. Save where a student has been studying abroad, there are no exceptions made for particular groups — the requirement is applied equally to all.

In addition to the increased flexibility introduced by allowing residence to be counted over the five years prior to entering college, a student may now also meet the residence requirement during the course of their studies in order to qualify for a grant. In the past, if a student did not meet the residence requirement on entry to a course, this could not be reassessed even if the requirement could subsequently be met during the course of their studies.

Now, all students are treated equally with regard to meeting the residence requirement. All students have greater flexibility in meeting the "three out of five" years requirement. And, even students who fail to meet the "three out of five" years at initial registration can now reapply in the course of their studies once they have met the residence requirement.

While I am not aware of any impediment to changing this arrangement, I have no plans to do so at present.

Special Educational Needs

Martin Ferris

Question:

50 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will explain the differences, if any, between his policy on educating children with autism and that of his predecessor [34868/11]

My Department strives to ensure that a continuum of special education provision is available as required for children with special educational needs. In line with this approach the policy is to promote a child-centred approach to education of all children with special educational needs including those with autism. My Department's policy is based on advice received from international experts on autism, NEPS, the Inspectorate and the report of the Irish Task Force on Autism. This policy continues to reflect what is in the best interest of the children concerned and I will support and build on developments in this area.

As each child with autism is unique they should have access to a range of different approaches to meet their individual needs. Children with autism present with a wide range of needs. Some children are capable of being fully integrated into mainstream schools without additional teaching or care supports. Others are able to attend mainstream schools but need additional teaching and/or care assistance. Many are best enrolled in autism-specific classes where more intensive and supportive interventions are required. Some may move from one setting to another as they get older and differing needs/strengths/abilities emerge.

The preferred policy of my Department is that children with autism are educated in school settings where children may have access to individualised education programmes (IEPs), fully-qualified professional teachers, special needs assistants, the appropriate school curriculum with the option, where possible and appropriate, of full or partial integration and interaction with other pupils.

Autism classes are established with a staffing ratio of 1 teacher and a minimum of 2 Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) for every 6 children. Other SNAs may be allocated if required to meet the care needs of the children. Start-up grants are provided to the schools to enable special equipment to be purchased. Enhanced capitation is paid in respect of each child and assistive technology is funded where this is recommended.

This approach promotes the maximum level of inclusion which accords with the intent of the EPSEN Act. While some children may be able to attend a mainstream class, for others the most appropriate provision may be in a special class or unit in the school or in a special school.

My Department supports provision in mainstream schools, some 430 special classes for autism attached to mainstream and special schools and 18 special schools for children with autism throughout the State which cater for the educational needs of some 5,000 children with autism.

School Curriculum

Pádraig Mac Lochlainn

Question:

51 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Education and Skills in view of his endorsement of the proposals contained in Towards A Framework for Junior Cycle and his statement that he has asked officials in his Department to begin discussions on their implementation with the partners in education, when these discussions will begin and if they will include engagement with schools and classroom teachers who will be required to implement the new junior cycle; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34854/11]

The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment proposals were developed following a major consultation process with stakeholders. The Council also has a network of schools with which it engages on a continuing basis to get the views of practising teachers. We must now begin to plan for implementation. In line with normal practice, my Department will enter into discussions with national representative bodies -- school management, principals, teacher unions and parents -- together with the NCCA and the State Examinations Commission on how best the changes proposed can be implemented. These national representative bodies have extensive structures in place through which the views of their members are channelled, and have played a well informed role in supporting change throughout the education system. The arrangements to begin the discussions will be made in the coming days.

School Accommodation

Brian Stanley

Question:

52 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Education and Skills the amount that has been spent annually over the past five years on the rental of prefabs for the purpose of using them as classrooms in counties Dublin, Laois and Offaly. [34876/11]

Historical data on the rental cost of prefabs units is readily available from 2009 onwards. Rented prefabs may be used for Mainstream Classrooms and/or Resource Rooms/Special Needs Rooms. The following Table sets out the annual rental cost of prefab units in counties Dublin, Laois and Offaly for 2009, 2010 and to date in 2011 as requested.

Annual Expenditure for Rented Prefabs (Primary & Post-Primary — 2009-2011)

*Please note that a prefab unit may consist of one or more classrooms and/or ancillary accommodation

Year

Dublin

Laois

Offaly

2011

€5.3M

€552K

€300K

2010

€5.5M

€532K

€322K

2009

€5.09M

€565K

€414K

Question No. 53 answered with Question No. 41.

School Staffing

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

54 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will list the schools that received notification of their allocation of part-time language support teachers in September and October, 2011; if he will address the concerns of principals who claim that receiving this information at such short notice makes it difficult for them to prepare for the new school term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34858/11]

Applications for part-time language support at primary level relate to schools that have less than 14 eligible pupils for language support. Decisions on these applications were deferred until the Autumn, having regard to the overall level of demand for full-time language support and other upward pressures on teacher numbers within the context of operating under a fixed ceiling on teacher numbers. My Department is not therefore in a position to approve applications for part-time language support posts and individual primary schools were notified accordingly.

Third Level Courses

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

55 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills the measures he intends to take to address the skill needs of the ICT sector that are continuously evolving and recognising that the current graduate output levels are less than 1,000 while the estimated demand from the sector is currently twice that level. [34859/11]

While it is very positive that the numbers of students accepting places on ICT undergraduate programmes have increased by almost 30% over the last 3 years, the impact of this will take time to feed through into increased graduate output. My officials have been working very closely with Forfás, the HEA and representatives of the ICT sector to more precisely identify the shortages that are being experienced and how they might be addressed. Specific proposals for an ICT Action Plan are being developed in consultation with industry representatives which aim to increase the domestic supply of high level ICT graduates in the short term through expansion of conversion and re skilling opportunities while also boosting the longer term supply of graduates in terms of numbers and quality. These include the provision of almost 2,000 Springboard places on ICT programmes, over 800 of which are at honours/masters degree level. Industry and academic experts have also been working together on the design of a tender for a new one year graduate skills conversion programme to commence early in 2012. The HEA expects to issue this tender before the end of the week.

Third Level Remuneration

Brendan Smith

Question:

56 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills the steps he has taken to address academic salaries and pay rises that were not agreed by him or the Higher Education Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34767/11]

The Deputy will be aware that agreement was reached in April 2009 which provided that unapproved payments would cease in the case of senior staff in universities. This regularised the remuneration of the individuals concerned apart from a limited number of outstanding issues in some universities. My Department requested the Higher Education Authority (HEA) to conduct an exercise to determine definitively the amount of unauthorised remuneration paid to individual senior staff in each of the universities and to have the amounts identified in each case verified by the Office of Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG). I will arrange to have the Public Accounts Committee informed of the outcome of this exercise as soon as it becomes available.

Under the current legislation my Department is limited in its options in respect of the imposition of penalties to deal with breaches. In view of possible contractual entitlements there are significant legal obstacles to recovering unauthorised payments from individuals.

Special Educational Needs

Brian Stanley

Question:

57 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of applications for special needs assistants that were made from schools in counties Dublin, Laois and Offaly since February 2011; the schools that made these applications; and the position regarding these applications. [34877/11]

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. Applications for SNA support are made directly to the NCSE. My Department does not therefore hold details of the number of applications made on a school by school, or county, basis for SNA support.

The NCSE has recently published statistical information in relation to the allocation of SNA and resource teacher posts to Primary, Special and Post Primary Schools. The information is provided on a county by county and school by school basis, including in relation to the counties referred to by the Deputy. This information is available on the NCSE website at www.ncse.ie.

Youth Services

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

58 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the waiting lists for persons wishing to avail of Youthreach centres which indicate the high demand for Youthreach courses; and his plans to provide €10 million in additional funding to provide an extra 500 places in the scheme. [34874/11]

There are almost 6,000 Youthreach places available nationwide under the Youthreach umbrella funded by my Department. The overall number of approved Youthreach places is set at its current level because there is a continuing requirement to plan and control numbers and to manage expenditure within the context of overall educational policy and provision. Any consideration of providing additional Youthreach places would have to take account of the present and prospective economic and budgetary context and related financial constraints.

I am aware that there is significant demand for further education and training programmes in general but my Department does not collect data on waiting lists, including for the Youthreach programme.

Third Level Fees

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

59 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will give a commitment that he will not raise the third level student contribution in budget 2012 or cut the maintenance grant for third level students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34844/11]

As the Deputy will be aware, the reality of our economic situation presents significant challenges that have to be reconciled with limitations on public resources. Ireland must adhere to its agreed economic recovery programme in order to reduce the budget deficit to 3% of GDP by 2015 and to restore our independence. This will mean that forthcoming budgets will involve further adjustments in taxation and public spending. Regrettably, education cannot be spared from this adjustment as the size of the challenge is so large. This is the unfortunate legacy caused by the reckless economic management of the previous Fianna Fail-Green Party Government.

I am very conscious of the fundamental role played by the free fees and student grant schemes in supporting families who are putting their children through further and higher education and I understand their concerns at the measures announced in Budget 2011 by the previous government. I will take account of those concerns in considering any future changes to the schemes as part of the budgetary process for 2012 and beyond, having regard to the position of the public finances.

The Deputy will also be aware that my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, is undertaking a Comprehensive Expenditure Review across all areas of Government spending. This process will inform funding allocations for the coming years. In this context, the Deputy will appreciate that in line with normal practice I am unable to comment on future savings options during the budgetary deliberative process.

Third Level Courses

Dessie Ellis

Question:

60 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the decision taken to downgrade the postgraduate diploma in education at University College Dublin from level nine to level eight; and if he understands the difficulties that this will now impose on students especially after they had enrolled in the course and paid registration fees and who now feel the course they are studying has been devalued. [34861/11]

Following detailed consultation between the Irish universities and the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI) in the context of the ongoing process of implementing the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), the universities, including University College Dublin, have agreed that the initial post-primary teaching qualification, hitherto known as the Higher Diploma in Education and latterly as the Graduate or Postgraduate Diploma in Education, is to be formally included for the first time in the NFQ at Level 8 with immediate effect.

All qualification titles used prior to 2011 (i.e. legacy titles) are also included in the NFQ at Level 8. The qualification will now be known as the Professional Diploma in Education, to avoid confusion with any Level 9 award type.

Universities are autonomous institutions within the meaning of the Universities Act 1997 and my Department does not have any function in relation to their academic affairs, including decisions concerning course provision and post-graduate fees.

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

61 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which currently exist within his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of each, listing, in particular, full name, location, the total funding allocated to each in 2011 and total staff number; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since he took office, and the total savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of budget 2012; if he will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying, in particular, their annual running costs, primary function, and staff number in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within his Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34898/11]

There are no state agencies, bodies or boards operating under the responsibility of my Department. However, there are three advisory committees and one commission that operate under my Department's remit: the Development Education Advisory Committee; the Irish Aid Expert Advisory Group; the Emigrant Services Advisory Committee; and the Ireland — United States Commission for Educational Exchange (the Fulbright Commission).

The Ireland-United States Commission for Educational Exchange enjoys autonomy of management and administration in accordance with section 2(5) of the Educational Exchange (Ireland and the United States of America) Act, 1991.

The committees employ no staff and their administration is serviced directly from my Department.

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

62 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the names of all persons nominated by him or by a Minister of State at his Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34985/11]

There are no state boards and no state agencies operating under the aegis of my Department. There are three advisory committees and one commission operating under the auspices of my Department to which I or my colleagues make appointments. These are: the Ireland — United States Commission for Educational Exchange (the Fulbright Commission); the Development Education Advisory Committee, the Irish Aid Expert Advisory Group, and the Emigrant Services Advisory Committee. Appointments to the Emigrant Services Advisory Committee the Irish Aid Expert Advisory Group have been made during the period in question. In April 2011, I appointed the members of the Emigrant Services Advisory Committee (ESAC), for a term to run until 31 December 2012.

The primary role of the Emigrant Services Advisory Committee (ESAC) is to advise the Minister for Foreign Affairs on the allocation of grants to Irish community organisations in Britain under the Emigrant Support Programme. The Committee consists of thirteen members including two officers from our Embassy in London, who act as Chair and Secretary to the Committee. The additional eleven members of the committee serve in a voluntary capacity. After consultation with our Embassy in London and the Irish Abroad Unit in the Department, I made the following appointments to the Committee:

Mr. Michael Forde — Chairman of the Irish Diaspora Foundation (appointed 1999).

Mr. Séamus McGarry — Member of the Ireland Fund of Great Britain; Board of Irish Cultural Centre, Hammersmith (appointed 2004).

Mr. Jim O'Hara — Vice Chair, Irish Youth Foundation UK, Chair of Irish Cultural Centre, Hammersmith (appointed 1996).

Cllr. Sally Mulready — Councillor in the London Borough of Hackney; Irish Elderly Advice Network (appointed 2008).

Tony Cusack — Manager of Irish Centre in Leicester (appointed 2008).

Breege McDaid — Chief Executive, Irish Community Care Merseyside (appointed 2008).

Tony Corcoran — Tyneside Irish Festival and Secretary of the Tyneside Irish Centre (appointed 2008).

Des Hurley — Chief Executive, Irish Arts Foundation (appointed 2008).

Bridie Nugent — Board Member of the Irish Welfare and Information Centre in Birmingham (appointed 2009).

John Gormley Former President of the GAA in Britain (appointed 2011).

Joe Brown Chair of the Irish Travellers Movement (appointed 2011).

In July 2011, I appointed Ms. Nora Owen as Chairperson as a member of the Irish Aid Expert Advisory Group. Also in July 2011, my colleague Minister of State for Trade and Development, Jan O’Sullivan, T.D., appointed Dr. Naomi Ngwira as a member of the Group.The Irish Aid Expert Advisory Group (IAEAG) was established in 2010 on foot of a recommendation contained in the Irish Aid Management Review adopted by the Government in 2009. The Group consists of seven members, six of whom are appointed directly by the Department for Foreign Affairs and Trade and one on the nomination of the Department of Finance. The role of the Group is to offer independent expert advice to the Minister of State and myself on the strategic direction of the aid programme. The other members of the Advisory Group were appointed by the then Minister in July 2010 for a three year term.

Human Rights Issues

Eoghan Murphy

Question:

63 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he recognises the term “gendercide”; and if so, the reason the term “infanticide” was included in the amendment to Senator Ronan Mullen’s motion on the problem of gendercide. [35028/11]

While I understand the term "gendercide" is beginning to gain currency, it is not a term which has been fully defined at international level, and is not currently in use in international law, human rights or development discourse. For his reason, the term "female infanticide" was used in the amendment proposed to Senator Ronan Mullen's motion. Infanticide is a long-standing recognised specific crime in national law and in many other jurisdictions.

The amendment envisaged that Seanad Éireann, condemning in the strongest terms female infanticide and all other violations of the rights of women and girls, would commend the Government's firm opposition to such practices and its efforts to combat all forms of gender-based violence. It would also endorse the Government's strong support for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls through its Official Development Assistance Programme.

Diplomatic Representation

Michael Conaghan

Question:

64 Deputy Michael Conaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the nature of diplomatic relations with the State of Kuwait; the diplomatic presence Ireland has in the State of Kuwait; and his plans to further diplomatic relations with this State. [35054/11]

Diplomatic relations with the State of Kuwait are conducted through Ireland's Embassy in Abu Dhabi, which opened in October 2009. Previously, all of Ireland's diplomatic relations with the Gulf States was conducted via the Embassy in Riyadh. The Ambassador in Abu Dhabi presented his credentials to H.H. Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Emir of the State of Kuwait, in April 2010.

The opening of the new Embassy has increased the State's diplomatic representation in the region and makes it possible for Ireland to do more in Kuwait, and in other locations across the Gulf.

While there are no current plans to upgrade Ireland's representation in Kuwait, some progress has been made in a number of specific areas.

In late 2010, a Double Taxation Agreement was signed between Ireland and Kuwait. It is hoped that this can enter into force in the near future.

In addition, Kuwait is one of the countries included in the pilot visa programme operated by the Department of Justice and Law Reform which will run until October 2012. The Programme was announced by the Government in July 2011 as part of its Jobs Initiative with a view to promoting tourism from emerging markets. This means that Kuwaiti nationals, holding a visa for the UK, may visit Ireland from the UK for business or tourism purposes, without obtaining an Irish visa. It is hoped that this will increase the number of visitors from Kuwait into Ireland.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

65 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of Irish staff employed in the Irish embassies in London, Brussels, Washington DC and Warsaw by grade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35085/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following table insofar as staff assigned from Headquarters is concerned. While many of the staff locally employed by Irish Missions are Irish or would be entitled to claim Irish citizenship, the Department does not maintain records on that basis.

Mission Staff (incl. equivalent grades)

Brussels (Belgium)

London

Warsaw

Washington

Assistant Secretary or higher

0

1

1

1

Counsellor/PO

0*

3

0

2

First Secretary/APO

1

6

2

5

Third Secretary/HEO

0

6

1

1

Garda Liaison Officer

0

1

0

0

Executive Officer

0

4

0

1

Staff Officer

0

2

0

0

Clerical Officer

0

15

0

2

Service Officer

0

3

0

0

Total staff assigned from HQ

1*

41

4

12

*Vacancy

Departmental Staff

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

66 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide the names of agencies which provide staff to his Department; the services they provide; the cost to the State of those services, the numbers of staff they provide; and if he will break these details into tabular form. [35717/11]

Joan Collins

Question:

67 Deputy Joan Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide the names of agencies which provide staff to his Department; the services they provide; the cost to the State of those services; the numbers of staff they provide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35720/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 66 and 67 together.

My Department has some contracts in place for services such as IT, cleaning and security. However it does not employ agency staff in Ireland.

In addition, a small number of our Missions abroad engage agency staff for administrative roles. In the short time available, it is not possible to provide detailed information on these services.

Budget Submissions

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

68 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding a specific identifier; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35011/11]

As the Deputy may be aware this matter is the subject of a Pre-Budget submission and as such will be considered in the context of the forthcoming Budget.

Tax Code

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

69 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding registration plate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35012/11]

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

70 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding additional tax revenue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35013/11]

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

71 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding current VRT band structure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35014/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 69 to 71, inclusive, together.

As the Deputy may be aware these matters are the subject of a Pre-Budget submission and as such will be considered in the context of the forthcoming Budget.

Budget Submissions

Robert Troy

Question:

72 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider a proposal made by an organisation (details supplied) with regard to the introduction of a system whereby there would be two registration periods in one year that is 12 WH 999 and then 12B WH 99 to help bring a more continuous approach to the car industry as at present the vast majority of the business is done in the first quarter of the year and this is running the risk of the organisation introducing seasonal employment. [35099/11]

Robert Troy

Question:

73 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider a further proposal by an organisation (details supplied) to introduce a system whereby second hand cars can be re-registered in a different county of choice, as in the case of a car originally registered in the west of Ireland whose new purchaser requires a Dublin registered plate, which cannot happen at present but the organisation believes this would be an added advantage to the second hand car market with no cost to the public finances. [35100/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 72 and 73 together.

As the Deputy may be aware these matters are the subject of a Pre-Budget submission and as such will be considered in the context of the forthcoming Budget.

Tax Code

Robert Troy

Question:

74 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider amending the Finance Act to allow betting shops trade until 10 p.m. during the winter months. [35102/11]

Paudie Coffey

Question:

82 Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for Finance if he intends to introduce a tax for online gambling and betting as a means of raising revenue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34972/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 74 and 82 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. The Finance Act 2011 contains legislation that, subject to a Ministerial Commencement Order, provides for the extension of betting duty to remote bookmakers and betting exchanges. The tax changes provided for in the Finance Act can only be implemented once the Betting (Amendment) Bill, which will provide for a regulatory and licensing regime, is enacted. The Betting (Amendment) Bill 2011 is currently at an advanced stage of drafting.

It is expected that by including this high-growth area of the betting sector, particularly given the increasing prevalence of smart phones, the tax base from betting will be boosted significantly. In a full year it is expected that the tax yield could grow up to €20 million depending on the prevailing market conditions. Just as important is the positive signal this measure will convey to international betting operations that have expressed an interest in or have already invested in Ireland. A location with an appropriate licensing framework coupled with relatively low taxes provides real investment and employment opportunities in this sector.

Michael McCarthy

Question:

75 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm, in respect of the VAT reduction on tourism-related goods and services introduced as part of the jobs initiative, the percentage of businesses nationwide which have passed on the rate reduction; the way the situation is being monitored by him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35106/11]

The Finance (No. 2) Act 2011 provided for a second reduced VAT rate, of 9%, on a temporary basis in respect of certain tourism-related services and goods for the period 1 July 2011 to end 2013. Businesses must account for VAT at the 9% rate on these specified goods and services provided by them on or after 1 July 2011. Where the goods and services are supplied to another VAT-registered business a VAT invoice must be issued, charging VAT at the new rate. However, where the supplies are to unregistered customers there is no obligation to show the VAT separately. Businesses dealing with unregistered customers are not legally obliged to reduce their (VAT-inclusive) pricing to reflect the lower VAT rate, but would be expected to do so. However, in reducing the VAT burden on activities related to the tourism industry, the introduction of the 9% VAT rate is aimed at contributing towards boosting tourism and the creation of additional jobs in that sector. With this in mind, the VAT reduction will be kept under review and evaluated before end 2012 in order to determine its effectiveness in aiding the industry. If it is shown that the VAT reduction has little or no effect in aiding the industry then the measure is open to being reformed or abolished. In addition, checks on the correct operation of VAT, including the rates of VAT applied are integral parts of Revenue's audit and compliance programmes.

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

76 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which currently exist within his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of each, listing in particular full name, location, the total amount of funding allocated to each in 2011 and total staff number; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since he took office, and the total amount of savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of budget 2012; if he will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying in particular their annual running costs, primary function, and staff number in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within his Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34897/11]

The question of rationalisation and the reduction in the number of State bodies is being considered in the context of the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure and the overall budgetary and estimates process for 2012, and decisions on such matters will be made by the Government over the coming weeks. The priorities set out in the Programme for Government for the rationalisation of State Agencies states that rationalisation must be cost effective and lead to a more transparent, accountable and efficient public service. The overriding imperative is the absolute requirement to achieve major savings in all areas of expenditure and to reduce staff numbers and administrative overheads. This underscores the need for radical streamlining of bodies, abolishing those bodies whose remit is no longer essential and amalgamation of other agencies or sharing of services between bodies, so that public services and functions can be delivered more cost-effectively.

Details in relation to bodies under the aegis on my Department are as follows:

National Treasury Management Agency

The National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) was established in 1990 with a commercial remit outside the civil service structure. It has a range of functions providing financial and risk management services to the Government. These include borrowing for the Exchequer and management of the National Debt, the State Claims Agency, the National Pensions Reserve Fund (NPRF), the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA), the National Asset Management Agency (NAMA) and the New Economy and Recovery Authority (NewERA).

The NPRF, the NDFA and NAMA each have their own board. The NTMA acts as the executive in respect of the NPRF and the NDFA. In the case of NAMA it assigns staff to NAMA and also provides it with business and support services and systems. NAMA reimburses the NTMA for the cost of these staff and services from its operations.

From March 2010 to August 2011 certain banking system functions of the Minister for Finance were delegated to the NTMA. The delegation of banking system functions to the NTMA was revoked with effect from 5 August 2011 and the NTMA banking team has been seconded to the Department of Finance. The NTMA budget for 2011 (excluding NAMA for which it is reimbursed as set out above) is €44.6m. The NTMA is located at Treasury Building, Grand Canal Street, Dublin 2. There are currently 428 employees in the NTMA. It is not proposed to abolish or wind down any of these agencies in the context of budget 2012.

National Assets Management Agency

The National Asset Management Agency is based in Treasury Building, Dublin; NAMA is funded from its own resources and the agency does not receive any voted moneys — Exchequer loans of €250m and €49m issued in 2010 have been repaid with interest; NAMA's officers are employees of the NTMA and it is expected that there will be up to 200 such officers by the end of 2011.

In addition there are currently two independent bodies in existence relating to credit unions. These are the Credit Union Advisory Committee and the Commission on Credit Unions. The Credit Union Advisory Committee is a statutory committee, established under Section 180 of the Credit Union Act 1997, whose task is to advise the Minister for Finance on credit union matters. The Commission on Credit Unions was established by the Government on 31 May 2011 to review the future of the credit union movement and make recommendations in relations to the most effective regulatory structure for credit unions.

The following provides a breakdown of these bodies:

Full name:

Credit Union Advisory Committee

Commission on Credit Unions

Location:

Meetings held at Department of Finance

Meetings held at Department of Finance

Total amount of funding allocated in 2011:

€30,000

€25,000

Bodies that come under my Department that do not get exchequer funding include the Financial Services Ombudsman Council which has a board consisting of 6 members , Irish Financial Services Appeals Tribunal which has a board consisting of 7 members the Central Bank of Ireland and the Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal. The Fiscal Advisory Council has recently been established under the aegis of may Department but is independent of it.

None of these bodies have been abolished. The Deputy will be aware that major restructuring is under way in the banking sector, especially in those credit institutions where the State has a controlling interest In this context Anglo and Irish Nationwide have been amalgamated to form Irish Bank Resolution Corporation (IBRC).

Budget Submissions

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

77 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider the introduction of a re-registration system whereby owners of second-hand cars can register their car in their county of residence, as a measure to stimulate the sales of second hand cars; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34925/11]

As the Deputy may be aware this matter is the subject of a Pre-Budget submission and as such will be considered in the context of the forthcoming Budget.

Bank Guarantee Scheme

Liam Twomey

Question:

78 Deputy Liam Twomey asked the Minister for Finance the average interest that the guaranteed banks pay on money they lend on mortgages here; the way this compares with the interest paid by mortgage holders in the same institutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34929/11]

Liam Twomey

Question:

79 Deputy Liam Twomey asked the Minister for Finance the average interest that the guaranteed banks charge on money they lend for commercial loans; the average interest rate charged to the banks to borrow this money; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34930/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 78 and 79 together.

None of the guaranteed banks publically discloses the average interest charged by product type as it is commercially sensitive information. However, I have set out in the following table publically available information from the three major covered banks' recent results which indicate the net interest margin being generated. Net interest margin is a measure of the difference between the interest income generated by and the amount of interest paid out on funding, relative to the amount of their assets.

Six months to 30 June 2011

AIB

BOI

PTSB

Net Interest Income (excluding ELG costs)

€860m

€966m

€212m

Net Interest Margin (excluding ELG costs)

1.36%

1.33%

0.97%

ELG Costs

€256m

€239m

€93m

Operating profit/(loss) before provisions(excluding LME gains and including operating costs)

(€125m)

€163m

(€54m)

Interest income is influenced by the mix of loan books they hold with a wide range of interest rates charged depending on product type. Interest costs arise from a variety of funding sources including deposits, funding from authorities, inter-bank funding and various wholesale funding sources including repos, securitisations, covered bonds, mortgage backed securities etc.

Banking Sector Regulation

Liam Twomey

Question:

80 Deputy Liam Twomey asked the Minister for Finance if the base-line costs in the banks are in line with the costs of similar banks in other jurisdictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34931/11]

Liam Twomey

Question:

81 Deputy Liam Twomey asked the Minister for Finance when looking at profit margins of the banks, are they in line with similar institutions in Europe after we have stripped out impairment charges on the bad loans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34932/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 80 and 81 together.

The Central Bank of Ireland has informed me that it does not conduct comparisons across local/international banks or banking sectors. They have also informed me that bank operating costs, funding costs and profitability vary significantly by jurisdiction, credit rating and time. This is due to differences in local law, products sold, general market risk appetite/tolerance and the impact of seasonal variations in funding liquidity.

Questions No. 82 answered with Question No. 74.

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

83 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Finance the names of all persons nominated by him or by a Minister of State at his Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34984/11]

In response to the Deputy's question the information in relation to appointments in relation to the period in question is as follows:

Membership of the Commission on Credit Unions

The Commission on Credit Unions has a Chair and 12 ordinary members. They were appointed by Government in June 2011. Members are listed as follows:

Chairman

Professor Donal McKillop (Professor of Financial Services, School of Management, Queens University, Belfast) and member of the Credit Union Advisory Committee.

Ordinary members of the Commission on Credit Unions:

Mr. Kieron Brennan (Chief Executive Officer, Irish League of Credit Unions)

Ms Fiona Cullen (Head of Legal Department, Irish League of Credit Unions)

Mr. Billy Doyle (Management Committee, Credit Union Development Association)

Ms Eileen Fitzgerald (Senior Manager in the Citizen's Information Board with responsibility for MABS)

Mr. Eamonn Kearns (Financial Services Division, Department of Finance), replaced in September 2011 by Mr. Aidan Carrigan (Financial Services Division, Department of Finance)

Mr. Tom McCarthy (Chief Executive Officer, Irish Management Institute),

Mr. Tim Molan (Secretary, Credit Union Managers Association)

Mr. Robert Moynihan (Qualified Chartered Accountant and Regulatory Consultant),

Mr. James O'Brien (Registrar of Credit Unions),

Mr. Dan O Gorman (Solicitor) and

Mr. Joe O Toole (Former Senator).

Prof. John Wilson, (Professor of Banking, St. Andrews University, Scotland)

Tax Code

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

84 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Finance his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding VAT; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35015/11]

Any changes in the VAT rates will be determined in the context of the annual Budget and Finance Bill cycle.

Credit Availability

Paudie Coffey

Question:

85 Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for Finance the level of Allied Irish Bank and Bank of Ireland lending to small and medium enterprise here this year as part of their conditions for State support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35056/11]

Paudie Coffey

Question:

86 Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for Finance the action he will take if Allied Irish Bank and Bank of Ireland are failing to meet their lending requirements to small and medium enterprises for this year to ensure that these targets are met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35057/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 85 and 86 together.

The restructuring of the domestic banking sector creates capacity for the pillar banks to lend in excess of €30 billion over the next three years in SME and other important sectors. This is in excess of Central Bank estimates of the likely demand for SME and mortgage credit over this period. Both pillar banks are concentrating on the Irish economy and need to issue credit to make profits and rebuild their balance sheets.

As the Deputy has mentioned, the Government has imposed lending targets on the two domestic pillar banks for the three calendar years, 2011 to 2013. Both banks will be required to sanction lending of at least €3 billion this year, €3.5 billion next year and €4 billion in 2013 for new or increased credit facilities to SMEs.

Both pillar banks have provided me with their plans to ensure that the 2011 target is achieved. This is particularly relevant given the comments contained in the fifth quarterly report of the Credit Review Office, which stated that "it will be a challenge for each of the banks to reach their €3bn sanction target for new and restructured facilities in the current year." In this regard, my officials, along with Mr Trethowan, have quarterly meetings with the pillar banks to ensure that their lending targets are being achieved.

Although the level of lending to SMEs by the pillar banks in the year to date is commercially sensitive, I can advise the Deputy that both banks have informed my Department that they are on course to meet their lending targets for 2011.

The Credit Review Office will provide more clarity on the progress of the two banks in relation to the 2011 target when he issues his next quarterly report before the end of November.

Paudie Coffey

Question:

87 Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for Finance the level of Allied Irish Bank and Bank of Ireland lending to small and medium enterprises in Waterford city and county this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35058/11]

The level of lending by the pillar banks to SMEs in Waterford city and county this year is commercially sensitive and banks do not report at county level. However, Mr John Trethowan, Head of the Credit Review Office, indicated in his fourth quarterly report that as part of his monitoring he has been able to show that no region, nor any trade sector, has experienced any adverse disadvantage in their proportion of bank lending since the base month of January 2010.

State Banking Sector

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

88 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the way the Anglo Irish Bank promissory note payment for 2012 is included in the national accounts; the impact on the primary deficit during 2012 if no such payment is made in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35061/11]

In 2010 the previous Government issued promissory notes to a number of financial institutions, primarily Anglo Irish Bank. These promissory notes amounted to €30.85 billion — €25.3bn to Anglo Irish Bank, €5.3bn to Irish Nationwide Building Society and €250m to the Educational Building Society. The effect of this was to increase the General Government Deficit by €30.85 billion or 20% of GDP in 2010. The reason the full amount of these promissory notes was included as part of the General Government Deficit in 2010 is because EUROSTAT rules require that the impact on the general government accounts be recorded in the year in which the obligation was recognised.

In terms of the cash payments which impact the Exchequer Borrowing Requirement, the promissory notes are being paid over to the financial institutions in annual tranches of 10% of the capital amount. The first tranche of €3.085bn was paid from the Exchequer earlier this year.

As the capital amount of €30.85bn has already been recorded in the General Government Debt and Deficit figures, the annual payments of €3.085bn do not impact any further on the General Government Deficit or Debt.

However, taking account of the promissory note structure and the phased payment of the monies due on the note means that there is additional accrued interest associated with the notes that must also be taken account of in the General Government Deficit and Debt calculations.

Taking account of the previous Government's agreement with EUROSTAT, an interest holiday for 2011 and 2012 was agreed. This means that the General Government Deficit is not impacted in 2012 by the promissory note payment, save for the very small impact of accrued interest due on the EBS note. It is currently estimated that the General Government Deficit is approximately 1% higher in 2013 as a result of the accounting treatment of the accrued interest payments.

If no such cash payment was made in 2012 the Exchequer primary deficit would, all other things being equal, be €3.085bn lower. However such a non-payment for 2012 would have no effect on the general government primary deficit because the capital amount of €30.85bn was recognised in the 2010 General Government Deficit.

Banks Recapitalisation

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

89 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the total cost of the bank bailout and interest payments for 2011 and the expected cost in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35062/11]

So far this year, the Exchequer has provided a net €6.5 billion in the context of the recapitalisation of the banking sector announced in July. A further €10 billion has been provided from the National Pensions Reserve Fund in that regard. The first €3.1 billion Exchequer payment in respect of the Promissory Notes committed to a number of financial institutions in 2010 was also made earlier this year. A further €3.1 billion payment is due in 2012.

Cash debt interest expenditure in 2011 was forecast in the recently published Medium-Term Fiscal Statement at €4.8 billion. The corresponding estimate for 2012 is €6.8 billion.

Tax Yield

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

90 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance if he will estimate the revenue from a new 48% tax band for income greater then €100,000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35064/11]

It is assumed that the threshold for the proposed new tax band mentioned by the Deputy would not alter the existing standard rate band structure applying to single and widowed persons, to lone parents and married couples. I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated full year yield to the Exchequer, estimated by reference to 2012 incomes, of the introduction of a new 48% rate would be of the order of €380 million. However, given the current band structures, major issues would need to be resolved as to how in practice such a new rate could be integrated into the current system and how this would affect the relative position of different types of income earners.

This figure is an estimate from the Revenue tax-forecasting model using latest actual data for the year 2009, adjusted as necessary for income and employment trends for the year 2012. It is therefore provisional and subject to revision.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

91 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the number of taxpayers who earned more than €80,000, €90,000, €100,000, €120,000, €140,000, €160,000, €180,000, €200,000, €300,000, €500,000, €750,000, €1 million and €2 million; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35065/11]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the information requested, estimated by reference to the income tax year 2011, is set out in the following table.

All Income Earners for Income Tax Year 2011 (provisional)

Gross Income €

Number

80,000 or less

1,963,480

80,001 — 90,000

47,247

90,001 — 100,000

32,818

100,001 — 120,000

41,068

120,001 — 140,000

22,589

140,001 — 160,000

12,839

160,001 — 180,000

7,857

180,001 — 200,000

5,195

200,001 — 300,000

12,167

300,001 — 500,000

6,078

500,001 — 750,000

2,000

750,001 — 1,000,000

626

1,000,001 — 2,000,000

519

Over 2,000,000

117

Overall Total

2,154,599

It should be noted that the income ranges shown in the above table relate to Gross Income as defined in Revenue Statistical Report 2009.

The figures are estimates from the Revenue tax-forecasting model using actual data for the year 2009 adjusted as necessary for income and employment trends in the interim. These are, therefore, provisional and likely to be revised.

It should be noted that a married couple who has elected or has been deemed to have elected for joint assessment is counted as one tax unit.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

92 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the estimated revenue from corporation tax if a 3.5% additional levy is placed on the 12.5% rate in 2012 as suggested by Social Justice Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35066/11]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the standard basis for any estimate of the tax yield from the action suggested by the Deputy would be the tax returns filed for the year 2009 (the latest year for which such information is available). Assuming that the proposed levy would apply to the same taxable income of all companies to which current standard rate of corporation tax rate applies, a straight line estimate of the nominal full year yield to the Exchequer from imposing an additional tax rate of 3.5% could be of the order of €980 million. In reality, this level of additional tax revenue will not be realised due to behavioural change on the part of taxpayers as a consequence of such a measure which would be a significant factor given the scale of the increase suggested in the question. Estimating the size of the behavioural effects of a change of this nature is difficult but they are significant. An OECD multi-country study found that a 1% increase in the corporate tax rate which is what the levy would be, in effect, reduces inward investment by 3.7% on average. In other words, it would take only a 2.5% increase in the rate (to 15%) to decrease Ireland's inward investment by nearly 10%. (This assumes the average applies across the board — but in fact it is likely to be more extreme for Ireland). Recent research by the OECD also points to the importance of low corporate tax rates to encourage growth. In ranking taxes by their impact on economic growth, corporate tax was found to be most harmful. In other words, governments seeking additional tax revenues would be advised to consider increasing all other types of tax (property, consumption and income) before increasing corporate taxes.

The very major importance to Ireland's international competitive position of maintaining the standard 12.5% rate of corporation tax in the current climate must also be borne in mind. Ireland (like other smaller member states) is geographically and historically a "peripheral" country in Europe. A low corporate tax rate is a tool to address the economic limitations that come with being a peripheral country, as compared to "core" countries.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

93 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the estimated revenue from corporation tax if all companies paid 12.5% rate rather than 4.6% rate paid by FDI companies as indicated in a recent TCD study; if the additional full revenue raised would be in the region of €1 billion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35067/11]

I wish to advise the Deputy that companies operating in Ireland are chargeable to corporation tax at the 12½ per cent rate on their trading profits. A higher 25 per cent rate applies in respect of investment, rental and other non-trading profits and chargeable capital gains. This rate also applies in respect of certain petroleum, mining or land dealing activities. The 10 per cent corporation tax rate for profits from manufacturing expired at the end of 2010 and the 12½ per cent rate now applies to such profits. Accordingly, all companies operating here pay corporation tax at the 12 ½ per cent rate or at the higher 25 per cent rate on their taxable profits. The ongoing yield from corporation tax reflects this position and the question of additional revenue as suggested by the Deputy does not therefore arise. There are different ways of measuring the effective rate of corporation tax depending on the variables that are used and it is difficult to determine a general or single reliable comparative measure of an effective tax rate. This fact is acknowledged in the TCD Discussion Paper referred to by the Deputy.

I am not in a position to comment on the calculations that underpin the figures in the TCD study referred to by the Deputy. However, other recent studies by international accountancy firms and the European Commission have shown that Ireland has an effective tax rate which is close to the statutory 12 ½ per cent rate. This is only to be expected as Ireland's 12 ½ per cent corporation tax regime is transparent, does not discriminate based on company size or ownership and applies across a broad base.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

94 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance if he has estimated the possible revenue from a self-assessed site-value tax of 0.1%; 0.2%; 0.3% as advocated by the TASC group in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35068/11]

The theory behind site value tax — or land value tax, as it is often called — is that tax is calculated by reference to the value of the land or site irrespective of whether there is a property on the site, or of what type of property is in place. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that they have no statistical basis for compiling estimates in relation to site values. I am not aware that any other agency has such information. The value of land has decreased in recent times, which would affect the potential yield. The return from a site value tax would also depend on whether the tax applied to all land or only to certain types of land, such as residential land. It is therefore not possible for my Department to provide the information requested by the Deputy on the potential return from a site value tax.

A decision has yet to be taken on what form of property tax will be introduced, whether a site value tax or some other form, the precise legal mechanism to be used to introduce the tax, and whether this will be done in tax legislation such as the Finance Bill or through other legislation which may fall within the ambit of the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government.

The Deputy will be aware that the Government has decided to introduce a household charge at a flat rate of €100 in 2012, to meet the commitment in the Memorandum of Understanding with the EU Commission, ECB and IMF to introduce a property tax. The household charge is a matter for the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, and it is expected to raise €160 million from the charge if collected in full.

Growth Levels

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

95 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the levels of growth in the years 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011; the expected levels of growth in quarter 1, quarter 2, quarter 3 and quarter 4 in 2012; the levels of growth at the end of 2013, end of 2014 and at the end of 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35083/11]

As regards the Deputy's request for projections for each quarter in 2012 and at end-2013, 2014 and 2015, quarterly Irish economic data can be very volatile and are subject to non-negligible revisions. This was evident once again in the latest Quarterly National Accounts release, which revealed that, on a seasonally adjusted basis, real GDP grew by 1.6 per cent quarter on quarter in Q2 2011 following positive growth of 1.9 per cent in Q1 2011. The previous estimate for the first quarter of 2011 was 1.3 per cent growth. Given this volatility, my Department's growth forecasts are based on annual rather than quarterly figures. This is in line with the approach of others, including the Central Bank and ESRI. The table below sets out the information the Deputy requests, showing real annual GDP growth in each of the years 2008 to 2010. My Department's projections for each of the years 2011 to 2015, as published in the Medium-Term Fiscal Statement, are set out in the following table:

Percentage Change in GDP 2008-2010:

2008

2009

2010

Real GDP Growth

-3.0

-7.0

-0.4

Projected Percentage Change in GDP 2011-2015:

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

Real GDP Growth

1.0

1.6

2.4

3.0

3.0

Banking Sector Regulation

Robert Troy

Question:

96 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Finance when he will bring forward legislation to regulate banks with regard to increasing lending rates on business customers. [35098/11]

The decisions financial institutions operating in Ireland make on the interest rates they charge to customers are commercial decisions for the institutions concerned. Interest rates are determined by a broad range of factors including ECB base rates, deposit rates, market funding costs, the competitive environment, and an institution's overall funding. I have no statutory function in relation to business interest rate decisions made by individual lending institutions at any particular time. The Financial Regulator and Deputy Governor of the Central Bank stated in his response of 11 November 2011 to the Taoiseach on the issue of passing on mortgage interest rate adjustments following ECB actions, the power to exercise close regulatory control over retail interest rates is not sought by the Central Bank. Similar principles apply in relation to business interest rates. The Deputy Governor has indicated that the Central Bank will, within its existing powers and through suasion, engage with specific lenders which appear to have standard mortgage variable rates set disproportionate to their cost of funds.

He has indicated that experience of such controls in the past and in other countries does not encourage the Central Bank to believe that such a regime would be advantageous in net terms as the banking system recovers its normal functioning. Binding controls tend to reduce availability of credit and channel it to the most creditworthy customers, starving smaller and less secure customers from credit. The Regulator indicates that this could have a chilling effect on the entry of sound competitors into the market. By absolving banks from their responsibility to price risk accurately, binding interest rate controls would, especially during this recovery phase, impede progress towards the re-establishment of bank management practices that can ensure a healthy and free-standing banking system no longer dependent on the Government for bail-outs.

In conclusion, it is vital that the banks continue to make credit available to support economic recovery. However, it is not in the interest of the banks, businesses or the economy for finance to be provided unless the business is viable and has the capacity to meet the interest payments and repay the sum borrowed.

Higher Education Grants

Liam Twomey

Question:

97 Deputy Liam Twomey asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the fact that local authorities are spending an inordinate length of time processing educational grants and this is increasing the risk that some students may drop out and end up in the dole queue; if he will direct local authorities to speed up this process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34934/11]

Liam Twomey

Question:

104 Deputy Liam Twomey asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the fact that local authorities are spending an inordinate length of time processing educational grants and this is increasing the risk that some students may drop out and end up in the dole queue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34933/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 97 and 104 together.

The process of assessing and paying third level or further education grants is a matter for the relevant local authority or VEC.

I am aware that the timing of payment varies between the 66 awarding authorities depending on a number of factors including the volume of applications received, staffing resources and whether or not properly completed application forms have been submitted. Work prioritisation across different functions, and how available staff are deployed to execute those functions are matters for the management of each grant awarding authority — in this case the City and County Managers. However, my Department constantly monitors the situation.

The Deputy will be pleased to know that plans are well underway to replace the 66 grant awarding bodies with one single authority and I have approved the appointment of the CDVEC to operate this centralised body.

The single authority will be operative from 2012 and I believe it will lead to a more efficient system for the processing of applications and improve the overall customer experience for those who apply for grants. I am sure the Deputy will agree this much needed overhaul of the grants system is a positive example of public sector reform.

Third Level Funding

Brendan Smith

Question:

98 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills the way he intends to accommodate increasing numbers of students at third level in view of the recent announcement that no new capital projects will be given the go ahead at third level over the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35175/11]

The Higher Education Authority is examining all issues relating to the funding of higher education having regard to continuing growth in student numbers and budgetary constraints. The planned outcome of this work is to facilitate Government decisions that support realistic and sustainable levels of growth in student numbers despite the difficult economic conditions.

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

99 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which currently exist within his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of each, listing in particular full name, location, the total amount of funding allocated to each in 2011 and total staff number; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since he took office, and the total amount of savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of Budget 2012; if he will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying in particular their annual running costs, primary function, and staff number in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within his Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34895/11]

A list of those bodies currently under the aegis of my Department is provided in the following table for the Deputy's information. The table provides details with regard to Head Quarter location, estimated funding allocations for 2011 and While Time Equivalent (WTE) staffing numbers.

While no bodies under the aegis of my Department have been abolished since my appointment as Minister the Deputy may wish to note that: In June 2011, the functions of the National Educational Welfare Board transferred to the newly established office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. Since September 2011, the National Centre for Technology in Education (NCTE) is within the remit of Dublin West Education Centre alongside the Department's largest support service, the Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST).

As the Deputy is aware my colleague the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform is leading the development of a new integrated public service reform plan and further details will be available on 17th November next.

The Deputy will also be aware that there are a number of major structural reform projects are being progressed in the Education sector. These are: Establishment of SOLAS, the new agency to reform, co-ordinate and fund further education and training programmes including developing a seamless interaction with the National Employment and Entitlement Service (NEES) on activation measures.

Body Name

Head Quarter Address

2011 Allocation — Estimated(000s)

Staffing Levels (Whole Time Equivalents)Qtr 3 2011

An Chomhairle um Oideachais Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta

22 Plás Mhic Liam, Dublin 2

2,300

3.00

Commission into Child Abuse

St. Stephens Green House, Dublin 2

2,200

6.80

Education Finance Board (EFB) —Note 1

Frederick Court, Dublin 1

Not Applicable

3.80

Foras Áiseanna Saothair — Note 2

27-33 Upper Baggot Street, Dublin 4

475,588

1,897.48

Further Education & Training Awards Council

East Point Plazza, East Point Business Park, Fairview, Dublin 3

4,661

36.00

Grangegorman Development Agency )GDA)

St Brendan’s Hospital, Dublin 7

2,080 (Current Allocation only)

7.00

Higher Education and Training Awards Council

26-27 Denzille Lane, Dublin 2

1,909

27.80

Higher Education Authority

Brooklawn House, Crampton Ave, Shelbourne Road, Dublin 4

5,587 (HEA Administrative Costs only)

52.20

Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering & Technology - Note 3

22,600

5.00

Irish Research Council for the Humanities and Social Sciences —Note 3

10,400

4.60

Léargas — The Exchange Bureau

189/193 Parnell Street, Dublin 1

1,195

31.40

National Centre for Guidance in Education

42/43 Prussia Street, Dublin 7

708

6.00

National Council for Curriculum and Assessment

24 Merrion Square, Dublin 2

3,812

22.80

National Council for Special Education

1-2 Mill Street, Trim, Co Meath

9,015

108.60

National Qualifications Authority of Ireland

Jervis House, Jervis St, Dublin 1

2,753

22.80

Residential Institutions Redress Board —Note 4

Belfield Office Park, Clonskeagh, Dublin 14

45,000

29.00

Skillnets Ltd

Q House, Furze Road, Q House, Furze Road, Sandyford, Dublin 18

14,500

19.00

State Examinations Commission

Cornamaddy, Athlone, Co. Westmeath

54,310 (net of income from fees)

196.89

The Teaching Council

Maynooth Business Campus, Co. Kildare

Not Applicable. Self-financing since March 2008

30.50

The ETBs will take over the work of VECs and will have an expanded role in the delivery of further education and training across the country.

Single awarding authority for student grants. City of Dublin VEC will operate as the new single student grant awarding authority to replace the existing 66 grant awarding bodies. Implementation of the new arrangements are being phased in from 2012/13 academic year.

Consolidation of Higher Education provision under the Strategy for Higher Education to 2030.

Establishment of the Qualifications and Quality Assurance Authority of Ireland which involves merger of the National Qualifications Authority, FETAC and HETAC.

It is also proposed to dissolve the Education Finance Board on the establishment of the Residential Institutions Statutory Fund. I intend to publish the necessary legislation at the earliest opportunity.

Note 1: The operation of the Education Finance Board is funded by €12.7m of the original contribution made by the religious congregations in the context of the 2002 Indemnity Agreement. The only financial contribution that the Department has made to the EFB relates to monies paid in respect of Travel & Subsistence due to some Board Members

Note 2: The Department of Social Protection will also provide over €481 million to FÁS in 2011 in respect of Employment Services and Employment Programmes.

Note 3: Figures provided for both of the Irish Research Councils relate primarily for research scholarships.

Note 4: Residential Institutions Redress Board (inclusive of Residential Institutions Review Committee, Board awards and 3rd Party Legal Costs and payments under the Indemnity Agreement). WTE figure of 29 includes 2 staff relating to Review Committee.

Schools Refurbishment

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

100 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Education and Skills further to Parliamentary Question No. 171 of 8 November 2011 (details supplied), if he has taken into account the health and safety implications of the decision to refuse funding as per the previous question. [34905/11]

In accordance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, individual school authorities are responsible in the first instance, for ensuring the safety and welfare of children and others in their care.

As the Deputy may be aware I announced last Thursday that my Department will be issuing the minor works grant for 2011/12 to the primary school shortly and it is open to the school authority referred to by the Deputy to prioritise the use of these funds to address such issues as furniture replacement.

School Transport

Dara Calleary

Question:

101 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will honour a commitment regarding to the provision of school transport given to the parents of children from a school (details supplied) in County Mayo that has closed and the children been transferred to another school in the locality. [34910/11]

Changes in the School Transport Scheme were announced by the previous Fianna Fáil-Green Party Government and derive from recommendations in the Value for Money Review of the scheme.

One of the changes announced was the uniform application of the distance criterion of 3.2 kilometres to all pupils travelling under the primary school transport scheme. This change, which came into effect this school year, means that the distance eligibility criterion of 3.2 kilometres is being applied uniformly and equitably on a national basis.

In line with the terms of the national primary school transport scheme, children residing less than 3.2kms may only apply for transport on a concessionary basis, subject to a number of conditions.

In this particular case Bus Éireann has reported that 8 children are no longer eligible for school transport as they reside less than 3.2 kilometres from the school. These children are however availing of school transport on a concessionary basis this year.

It is essential to stress that the wider context within which this and other changes are taking place, is a situation of the most serious financial difficulties. Under the four year recovery plan, there is a requirement to deliver savings of €17 million on the school transport budget and these measures are an integral part of this.

Schools Building Projects

Paschal Donohoe

Question:

102 Deputy Paschal Donohoe asked the Minister for Education and Skills if any construction works of any nature are planned or have been undertaken at a college (details supplied); the status of any such works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34912/11]

Works at the College to which the Deputy refers were halted in April of this year due to the withdrawal of the originally appointed contractor. The project is currently being re — tendered with completed tenders due back later this month. Provided that a successful and satisfactory tender is received, works should re- commence on site early in 2012. In this regard, the Deputy may be aware that I recenlty announced that funding for this project is available as part of capital spending plans covering the period 2012 to 2016.

Following the withdrawal of the contractor earlier this year, a range of works necesary to secure the site, to eliminate health and safety risks and to address relates issues and concerns were undertaken.

School Transport

Jack Wall

Question:

103 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Education and Skills when school transport will be sanctioned in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34915/11]

My Department has sanctioned a transport service for the pupil referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied.

Bus Éireann, which operates the School Transport Schemes on behalf of my Department, is making the necessary arrangements in this regard.

Question No. 104 answered with Question No. 97.

School Staffing

Seán Crowe

Question:

105 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will reinstate the two teaching posts lost to a school (details supplied) in County Cork. [34937/11]

The Deputy will be aware the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) for allocating teaching staff and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) to special schools to support children with special educational needs. The NCSE operates within my Departments criteria in allocating such support, which now includes a requirement for the NCSE to have regard to an overall cap on the number of SNA posts.

As set out in my Departments Circular 0042/2011, in order for the NCSE to complete the processing of applications for mainstream schools in the first instance, the existing 2010/11 level of SNA supports have been maintained in special schools for the coming school year, other than for schools with declining enrolments, with a review to take place early in the 11/12 school year. The school referred to by the Deputy has therefore not received a reduction in its SNA staff levels over those applying at the end of the last school year. The review of SNA support at special schools is currently ongoing and I understand that the review of SNA provision at the school referred to by the Deputy will take place in the coming weeks.

In relation to teaching posts, Circular 0042/11 states that there are a small number of special schools which have significant excess teacher posts and that the NCSE may therefore contact such schools to review the individual circumstances in these schools. The Circular indicated that the NCSE may suppress a post in schools which have excess teaching posts in order to create a post in a school which does not have excess posts and which has growing pupil numbers. The special school referred to by the Deputy caters for pupils with severe/profound disability and ASD. The correct teacher allocation ratio for schools catering for children with severe and profound disability is 6:1. In 2010/11 the school had 7 approved class teaching posts, 3 surplus teaching posts and 28 SNAs. The enrolment is 38 pupils, including 9 new children enrolled for September 2011. One of the surplus teachers retired at the end of the last school year and the school is not eligible for a replacement. A further surplus post has been withdrawn leaving the school with 1 surplus post above recommended staffing allocation levels.

It is the position of both my Department and the NCSE that given the exceptionally high levels of teaching and support staff which have been allocated to the school, that notwithstanding the outcome of any review of SNA support at the school, that the school has sufficient support within its overall allocation to enable it to provide for the teaching and care support requirements of all of the children enrolled to the school.

School Accommodation

Seán Crowe

Question:

106 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to provide permanent classroom accommodation for a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in the near future; and if his attention has been drawn to the fact that it is currently split over three buildings within the campus and it is increasingly difficult to function properly as a gaelscoileanna. [34938/11]

I can confirm that my Department is currently examining an application from the school to which the Deputy refers for improved and extended accommodation. My officials have met with the school and will be in further contact with the school authority as soon as full consideration of the application has been completed.

Schools Building Projects

Seán Crowe

Question:

107 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to progress the amalgamation of schools (details supplied) in County Sligo into a new school building to be constructed on a council owned site in the centre of the town. [34939/11]

Following clarification secured from the Deputy's office, I can confirm that a major capital works application was submitted to my Department in respect of a new school for the proposed amalgamation of two schools in the area to which he refers. The application was assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale projects and assigned a band 1 rating.

Information in respect of the current school building programme along with all assessed applications for major capital works, including the project in question, is available on my Department's website at www.education.ie.

As an interim measure, my Department provided funding in excess of €270,000 to the schools to facilitate improvement works to the electrical system, roof, disabled access and for the replacement of temporary accommodation. My officials also met with representatives from both schools in February 2011 to discuss the status of the proposed project.

The Government's Medium Term Infrastructure and Capital Investment Framework, which was published on 10th November 2011, sets out the demographic challenge facing the education system in the coming years. In conjunction with this, I indicated that I will publish details next month of the school building projects to be constructed in 2012. Early in the new year, I will publish a five year plan outlining the projects to be constructed in that time. Given the constraints on capital funding, the Government has to prioritise school building projects and the very real need to ensure that every child has access to a school place.

Seán Crowe

Question:

108 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Skills the progress made on the school planning and building programme in counties Dublin, Laois and Offaly. [34940/11]

Information in respect of my Department's School Building Works Programme for 2011, including those projects in the counties referred to by the Deputy is available on the Department's website at www.education.ie.

The status of each project on the programme is updated at regular intervals to reflect the current position.

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

109 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Education and Skills the names of all persons nominated by him or by a Minister of State at his Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34982/11]

Since 9th March 2011 the following appointments have been made to the Boards of the Bodies under the aegis of my Department.

Mr. Eamonn Devoy, Mr. Tony Donohoe, Professor Anne Scott, Ms. Maria Bourke and Ms. Audrey Deane were all appointed to the Board of the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI) with effect from end March 2011. While the terms of office for these appointments are for a five year period the NQAI is to be merged with both the Further Education and Training Awards Council (FETAC) and the Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC) to form a new body to be known as the Qualifications and Quality Assurance Authority of Ireland (QQAAI) in the coming months.

Mr. Mícheál Ó Fiannachta, a Departmental official, was appointed to the Board of Skillnets Ltd with effect from June 2011.

Dr Maria Hinfelaar and Mr Aengus Ó Maoláin were appointed to the Higher Education and Awards Council (HETAC) in June 2011. As in the case of the NQAI, this body is to be merged into the Qualifications and Quality Assurance Authority of Ireland in the coming months. It is customary for the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) to have one representative on the board of HETAC. Mr Ó Maoláin was nominated by the USI.

Ms. Maureen Costello was appointed to the National Council for Special Education Board in September 2011. Ms. Costello is the Director of the National Educational Psychological Service and her appointment was made because of the close interactions between the two agencies concerned.

Mr. Michael Moriarty was appointed to the FÁS Board in July 2011. The vacancy on the FÁS Board arose in July 2011 following the resignation of Mr. Sean Gallagher. Mr. Moriarty, who is General Secretary of the IVEA, was appointed because of his expertise in the Vocational Education Committees which will be availed of particularly when FÁS is transformed into SOLAS, the new further education and training authority.

Mr. Gary Redmond was re-appointed to the Higher Education Authority in July 2011. It is customary for the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) to have one representative on the board of the Higher Education Authority. Mr. Redmond was nominated by the USI.

In addition the Student Grants Appeals Board was established in September 2011. The Board consists of: Ms. Maureen Waldron (Chairperson) — former Director of the Department of Social Protection; Mr. Padraig McNamara (vice-Chair) — former Chief Executive Officer of the State Examinations Commission; Dr. Marie Clarke — Head of Education at UCD; Ms. Rebecca Murphy -former Student Union Welfare Officer, University College Cork; Ms. Eithne Frost — Consultant in the Voluntary Sector; Ms. Brenna Clarke, retired Professor of English at St. Patrick's College of Education; and Professor Kevin Ryan — former Registrar of the University of Limerick.

The Deputy may wish to note that officials in my Department are currently finalising arrangements to effect the government decision regarding direct Ministerial appointments to State Boards and issues regarding the public advertising of future vacancies will be addressed in this context.

Schools Building Projects

Brendan Smith

Question:

110 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills when a school building project (details supplied) will proceed to the next stage in view of the fact the existing accommodation is inadequate and substantial costs are also incurred in renting additional accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35009/11]

A building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is currently at an early stage of Architectural Planning.

The Design Team are currently working on finalising the Stage 2a Submission (Developed Sketch Design). When this submission is received it will be reviewed by my Department and, subject to no issues arising, officials in my Department will be in contact with the Board of Management of the school with regard to the further progression of the project.

FÁS Training Programmes

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

111 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason County Kerry students have to go to Dublin to complete phase 4 apprenticeship; and the reason they cannot do these courses in County Kerry. [35010/11]

I understand Phase 4 apprenticeship courses are not exclusively held in Dublin, they are also held in different locations throughout the Country. I am informed that the FÁS apprenticeship scheduling management system is designed to automatically call apprentices, by region, trade and training phase on a longest waiting basis on the day of scheduling to the nearest available FÁS Training Services Unit/Institute of Technology.

Apprenticeship Phase 4 location and allocation is determined by the HEA in liaison with the Institutes of Technology. While Kerry is not a location that has been identified for Phase 4 apprenticeship courses due to insufficient numbers, it has been identified as a location for Phase 6 training.

School Curriculum

Eoghan Murphy

Question:

112 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has any plans to make Irish a non-compulsory subject at leaving certificate level (details supplied); and if so, when does he predict this will happen. [35022/11]

This Government is committed to supporting the overall thrust of 20 Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030, and to the delivery of the goals and targets proposed. As part of this, a thorough reform of the Irish curriculum and the way Irish is taught at primary and second level will be undertaken. The priority is to take steps to improve the quality and effectiveness of the teaching of Irish. Only when these steps have been implemented, the question of whether Irish should be optional at Leaving Certificate will be considered.

A revised Leaving Certificate curriculum in Irish began in all schools in September 2010 for first examination in 2012. The revised programme provides for an increase in the proportion of marks available for oral assessment to 40%, and is aimed at promoting a significant shift in emphasis towards Irish as a spoken language, where students can communicate and interact in a spontaneous way, and where Irish is spoken every day in schools. The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment has been asked to review this syllabus in the light of the experiences of students in the first examination.

Teaching Qualifications

Eoghan Murphy

Question:

113 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will consider an appeal on a decision for incremental credit (details supplied). [35023/11]

The schemes for the award of Incremental Credit for prior teaching and relevant non-teaching service are agreed under the auspices of the Teachers' Conciliation Council, a body established in accordance with the terms of the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme for Teachers. The Council is composed of representatives of the teacher representative bodies, school management, the Department of Education and Skills and Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, chaired by an official of the Labour Relations Commission. The procedures for these schemes are outlined under Circular 29/2007. As these are agreed procedures it would be inappropriate for me, as Minister, to intervene in any individual case.

Departmental Expenditure

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

114 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the total spent on education in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011; the percentage of GDP spent on education in each of the same years and the percentage of GNP spent on education in each of the same years from 2008 to 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35071/11]

The following table expresses total education expenditure, as recorded in the Appropriation Accounts for 2008-10 and the Revised Estimates for Public Services 2011, as a percentage of GDP and GNP. It should be noted that a number of changes have occurred to the structure of the Vote for my Department over this period including:

The transfer out of the Education and Science Vote from 1 January 2009 of funding responsibility for various functions in relation to Youth Organisations and Youth Activities to the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs;

The transfer into the Education and Skills Vote from 1 May 2010 of responsibility for FÁS skills and training programmes (formerly funded through the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment).

The transfer into the Vote from 1 January 2011 of funding in respect of the provision of nursing education (formerly funded through the Department of Health).

The transfer out of the Vote from 1 January 2011 of funding in respect of functions of the National Education Welfare Board to the Vote of the Minister for Health and Children.

Total expenditure on education 2008-2011

Year

Education Expendiure€m

GNP€m

GDP€m

Expenditure as % of

GNP

GDP

2008

9,295

154,673

179,990

6.0%

5.2%

2009

9,356

132,233

160,596

7.1%

5.8%

2010

9,345

128,207

155,992

7.3%

6.0%

2011

8,888

126,450

155,250

7.0%

5.7%

Expenditure for 2007-2010 is as per the Appropriation Accounts for each of the years in question, while the 2011 figure is as per the 2011 Revised Estimates Volume

GNP & GDP figures for 2007-2010 are as per the Central Statistics Office, while 2011 figures are forecasts from the Department of Finance.

Departmental Staff

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

115 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the total number of staff employed in the primary, secondary and third level sectors each year from 2008 to 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35072/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is included in the table.

Number of staff employed in the primary, secondary and third level sectors each year from 2008 to 2011.

(Whole-Time Equivalents)

End 2008

End 2009

End 2010

End Sept 2011

First Level Education

41,033

40,903

41,504

40,318

Primary Teachers

31,939

31,814

32,423

31,850

Special Needs Assistants

8,670

8,683

8,692

8,085

Others

424

406

389

383

Second Level Education

33,074

32,501

32,990

32,145

Second Level Teachers

28,297

27,779

28,203

27,660

Special Needs Assistants

2,002

1,950

2,142

1,929

Non-Teachers in Community and Comprehensive sector

503

503

466

452

Non-Teachers in Vocational Education Committee sector

2,131

2,131

2,042

1,968

Others

141

138

137

136

Third Level Education*

21,073

20,107

19,607

19,165

Universities/HEA Institutions

11,656

11,121

10,792

10,617

Institutes of Technology

9,019

8,596

8,442

8,188

Other Third Level Institutions

398

390

373

360

*Includes third level staff funded from core funding provided for third level instututions, in addition to staff in certain research and related posts funded from other Exchequer resources. Sept 2011 figure estimated.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

116 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the pupil-teacher ratio each year from 2007 to 2011; the way this compares to the EU 27 and OECD rates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35073/11]

The pupil-teacher ratio published by the Department for the years 2006/07 to 2010/11 are as follows:

Year

First Level

Second Level

2006/2007

16.0

13.1

2007/2008

16.0

12.9

2008/2009

15.9

13.0

2009/2010

*16.0

13.6

2010/2011

15.7

13.6

**Whole-time equivalent of part-time teachers were included for the first-time in 09/10.

The most recent comparison of PTR with other European and OECD countries was published in the OECD report Education at a Glance 2011 (EAG) and data refers to 2008/2009. PTR in primary schools in Ireland, at 15.9, was marginally below the OECD average (16.0). At second level Ireland with a PTR of 12.6 was also below the OECD average (13.5). The PTR in EAG for second level is lower than the figure published by my Department (13.0) for the same year (2008/2009), due to the inclusion of pupils and teachers in other settings such as STTC, Youthreach and FAS. The OECD's report contains an EU 21 average rather than an EU 27 average which was 14.5 at primary level and 12.1 at second level.

School Curriculum

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

117 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will estimate the possible financial savings from the self-assessment system and new junior certificate syllabus; if there are any associated costs to introducing this new programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35074/11]

Subjects will be assessed by means of a written examination set and marked by SEC, and a portfolio marked by the class teacher in the school, moderated by the school and subject to external moderation on a sample basis by SEC. Short courses will be assessed by means of a portfolio, and subject to internal moderation by the school. The term "portfolio" may include practical tests, (or events or school musicals in a short course context) as well as project or portfolio work, depending on the area of learning.

Additional costs will arise for professional development for teachers, an upgraded IT system for the State Examinations Commission, and the processing of additional assessment components. The assessment and consideration of the resource implications of the proposals has begun. These will, of course, fall to be considered in the normal way by Government in the context of the estimates and budgetary processes.

Special Educational Needs

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

118 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to redeploy special needs assistants who have been made redundant; if so; if he will set out the process for such deployment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35090/11]

It is important to note that Special Needs Assistant (SNA) allocations are not permanent, as the level of SNA support allocated to a school may be increased or decreased as pupils who qualify for SNA support enrol or leave a school. They are also decreased where a child's care needs may have diminished over time. The recruitment and deployment of SNAs within schools are matters for the individual Principal/Board of Management. The Board is the SNA's employer and the terms of employment are subject to the conditions of the contract of employment. There are presently no plans to introduce a panel system for SNAs. However, the Deputy will be aware that my Department has recently published a Value for Money (VFM) and Policy Analysis review of the Special Needs Assistant scheme. This review is available on my Departments website: www.education.ie.

The Value for Money review recommended that the Department of Education and Skills should consider conducting a cost benefit analysis, to establish if the introduction of a regional redeployment scheme for SNAs would lead to greater economic efficiency. It also recommended that alternative employment models for SNAs that could achieve greater administrative efficiencies and provide greater employment certainty for SNAs should be considered by the DES. My Department has established a working group which will consider and implement the recommendations of the SNA Value for Money report.

In the interim, a Special Needs Assistant whose post is surplus to the approved allocation to the school may be entitled to a redundancy payment under the terms of circular 58/2006 — titled Redundancy Arrangements for Special Need Assistants. Support to SNAs who may have been made redundant is provided for within the terms of this scheme.

Departmental Properties

Robert Troy

Question:

119 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he or any agencies under his remit have private property leased in County Westmeath; and if so, if he will identify these properties together with the recurring annual rents paid. [35101/11]

As indicated to the Deputy in my response to parliamentary question number 79 of 10th November 2011 I do not have any property leased directly from the private sector in County Westmeath. With regard to those bodies under the aegis of my Department I can confirm to the Deputy that FÁS has four premises rented/leased in Westmeath. Details as follows:

Athlone Employment Services Office — Unit 7 & 8, Golden House, Athlone — Rent €70,280 per annum;

Mullingar Employment Services Office — Church Avenue, Mullingar — Rent €36,488 per annum;

STB Offices —Unit 16, Blyry Court (3 year lease which expires on 11/12/11) — Rent €30,000 per annum;

Training Centre (satellite) Moydrum — Vacating this premises on 31/12/11.

The lease expired on 30th June 2011 and was extended to end of year for €33,000. Rent per annum previously was €111,320.

Bullying in Schools

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

120 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which school bullying remains an issue at primary and or secondary level; the number of incidents reported throughout the country in each of the past five years to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35145/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

121 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which incidents of the various forms of school bullying that have been identified in each of the past five years to date whether through the use of modern technology or other methods; the degree to which structures are in place at local or national level with a view to ensuring early identification of the problem and positive intervention to deal with the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35146/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 120 and 121 together.

There is no requirement for local school authorities to report incidents or allegations of bullying to my Department. My Department does receive a number of complaints and queries from parents regarding matters such as bullying involving schools. It important to highlight that in many of these instances, parents are seeking guidance from the Department on how to resolve an issue or an alleged incident within a school. In dealing with complaints the Department's role is to provide advice to parents and students on the operation of schools' complaints procedures and to clarify for parents and pupils how grievances and complaints against schools can be progressed.

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.

My Department has 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.

School Enrolments

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

122 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which school place requirements at primary, secondary and third level have been noted in each of the past five years to date; the extent to which provision can be made and targets met in respect of such requirements over the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35147/11]

Total enrolment in both primary and post-primary schools is expected to grow by almost 70,000 between now and 2018 — over 45,000 at primary level and 25,000 at post primary — and will continue to grow up to at least 2024 at post-primary. This projected growth in enrolments reflects the increases in enrolment at both levels in the past five years and also the continuing very high level of births. The necessity to ensure sufficient school places arising from increasing demographics and involving both new school buildings and extensions, will continue to be the priority for schools capital expenditure.

In relation to Higher Education, the growth in student numbers is monitored on a continuous basis. In this regard, the Higher Education Authority is examining all issues relating to the funding of higher education having regard to continuous growth and budgetary constraints. The planned outcome of this work is to facilitate Government decisions that support realistic and sustainable levels of growth in student numbers despite the difficult economic conditions.

The Government's Medium Term Capital Investment Framework which was published last week includes an allocation for education capital of just over €2.2 bn over the five years of the plan — an average annual allocation of just over €440 m. This investment for the next five years will provide over 100,000 permanent school places of which over 80,000 will be additional school places. This substantial investment will result in over 11% of the total school population benefiting from new permanent places delivered during the period 2012 to 2016.

In addition, this will also enable higher education projects such as the UCD Science Library, NUI Maynooth's library project, the University of Limerick Medical school to be completed.

Student Support Schemes

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

123 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which he has observed the serious negative impact on the educational prospect of students already at third level whose higher education grants have been reduced by his predecessor with particular reference to non-adjacent support and whose parents find themselves in an impossible position resulting in serious hardship or withdrawal of their children from third level education thereby seriously restricting their ability to seek employment in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35148/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

124 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the negative impact on students at third level arising from budgetary cutbacks put in place by his predecessor and resulting in some situations of college authorities having to introduce food vouchers in order to provide for the welfare of their students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35149/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

129 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has identified the number of students who might find themselves forced out of third level education as a result of austerity measures introduced by his predecessor with particular reference to those whose parents are on low or fixed incomes whether employed or unemployed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35154/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 123, 124 and 129 together.

I am aware of the impact of changes to the student grant scheme on students, however, as the previous Government had factored in the savings from these changes to the public expenditure programme for 2011, I regret that I am not in a position to reverse or vary them.

The Deputy will be aware that, while a qualifying student may receive a lower rate of grant for the 2011/12 academic year, they will not lose grant assistance and students whose parents are on particularly low incomes will also receive a top-up in the special rate of grant. Students qualifying for a grant will also have their fees and/or student service charge paid on their behalf. In addition, students in exceptional financial circumstances can apply for assistance under the Student Assistance Fund. Information on the Fund is available through the access offices of third-level institutions. The access offices themselves will also continue to provide support and advice to students to enable them to continue with their studies.

Third Level Places

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

125 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the total number of third level places available throughout the country; the number of students accommodated; the number who had to seek places abroad in a number of institutions in other EU countries including the UK; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35150/11]

The number of full-time new entrants to publicly funded higher education institutions under the Higher Education Authority is larger than it has ever been due to an expansion in third level places in recent years. Indeed, Ireland is currently performing very strongly in terms of student participation in higher education and has the highest tertiary attainment rate among 25-34 year olds in the European Union. Most recent data available to my Department, in respect of the 2010/11 academic year, indicates that almost 41,000 full-time new entrants had entered Irish higher education institutions, bringing the total full-time enrolment to a record high of 161,000. Enrolment in higher education in Ireland has increased by almost 16% since 2007. The higher education sector has stretched itself significantly to accommodate these historic increases in the student population at both third and fourth level. This has been achieved largely on the strength of more efficient utilisation of campus space in the sector. Data on numbers of Irish students seeking college places abroad is not available to my Department.

Special Educational Needs

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

126 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which he expects to be able to provide and retain the maximum number of special needs assistants at primary and second level throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35151/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

127 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which he can retain and provide special needs teachers at primary and second level over the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35152/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

128 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which he has been able to meet the ongoing requirements at primary and second level of children with special needs who have been disadvantaged by decisions taken by his predecessor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35153/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 126 to 128, inclusive, together.

Firstly, I wish to reiterate this Government's commitment to the provision of resources for children with special educational needs. The Programme for Government sets out that education will be a priority for this Government and that we will endeavour to protect and enhance the educational experience of children, young people and students.

Approximately 15% of the entire budget of my Department — some €1.3 billion — will be spent in support of children with Special Educational Needs this year. This provision is in line with expenditure in 2010 and shows that despite the current economic difficulties, funding for special education has not been cut.

This Government is committed to the protection of frontline services for pupils with special educational needs. 10,575 whole time equivalent (wte) Special Needs Assistant (SNA) posts are being provided for primary, post-primary and special schools for the coming school year in order to support the care needs of pupils with disabilities. This represents an increase over the December 2010 position where 10,543 posts were provided. Unlike other areas of the public sector SNA vacancies can be filled up to the approved number.

Approximately 9,950 learning support/resource teacher posts, including those provided under the General Allocation Model, are also being provided in primary & post primary schools in order to provide additional teaching support to pupils with special educational needs. This represents an increase of approximately 350 whole time equivalent posts over last year's allocation. Over 1,000 teachers are also being provided for in special schools providing teaching to pupils with various disabilities at much reduced pupil: teacher ratios, for example the autism PTR is 6:1 and the moderate general learning disability PTR is 8:1. Enhanced levels of school capitation are payable to most special schools and special classes and special School Transport arrangements for pupils with disabilities are provided at a cost of over €60m per year. Approximately €1.3m is also provided annually to schools for assistive technology support.

Early educational intervention is provided for children with autism from 2½ years of age. There are now 56 early intervention classes for children with autism attached to mainstream schools that are funded by the Department. Funding is also provided through the home tuition programme for children with autism aged from 2 ½ years to 5 who are unable to access an early intervention class. An extended school year is also currently available for pupils who have either a severe/profound general learning disability or who have autism.

The continued commitment of this Government to special education provision, at a time when savings are being required across a range of expenditure areas, will ensure that children with special educational needs can continue to have access to educational facilities in line with their requirements. Whereas it is not possible to anticipate future budgetary decisions, my Government is committed to the protection of frontline services for pupils with special educational needs.

Question No. 129 answered with Question No. 123.

Schools Building Projects

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

130 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of applications received in his Department for provision of new schools, replacement or improvement of existing structures from the various school authorities throughout County Kildare on hand at present; the extent to which such works are likely to proceed during the course of the next twelve months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35155/11]

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

For the Deputy's convenience, however, I set out below details of the 37 applications for building works from schools in County Kildare that are on hand.

The Government's Medium Term Infrastructure and Capital Investment Framework, which was published on 10th November 2011, sets out the demographic challenge facing the education system in the coming years. In conjunction with this, I indicated that I will publish details next month of the school building projects to be constructed in 2012.

Application Stage — Schools in Kildare

Roll No.

School Name — Location

Details of Application

Band Rating

01821V

S N Rath Mor (Kildare)

New School

Band 1

13328I

Newbridge 2 N S (Kildare)

Extension/Refurbishment

Band 2

13902O

Hewetsons N S Clane (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

15599D

St Brigids Primary School Kildare Town (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 3

15769C

Monasterevan Convent Monasterevan (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 3

15870O

Scoil Chonnla Phadraig Newbridge (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

16302F

St Brigids N S Ballysax (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

16707I

Scoil Naisiunta Naomh Pheadar Monasterevan (Kildare)

New School

Band 2

16817P

Brannoxtown N S Brannockstown (Kildare)

Extension

Band 3

16845U

Rathcoffey N S Rathcoffey (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

17254C

St Corban’s Primary School, Naas

Extension/Refurb

Band 1

17341U

Maynooth Boys’ NS

Extension/Refurb

Band 3

17650K

Scoil Íde Naofa, Athy, (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

17872F

St Conleths And Marys N S Newbridge (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

17873H

S N Connlaodh Naofa N Newbridge (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

17931S

S N Brighde Ticknevin (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

17968S

Ursaille Naofa Teach An Da Mhile (Kildare)

New School

Band 2

18063A

S N Naomh Lorcain Levitstown (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 3

18093J

S N Cloch Rinnce Cloch Rinnce (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 1

18096P

Coill Dubh NS, Naas

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

18130M

St Patricks Ns Johnstownbridge (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

18430B

S N Baile Roibeaird (Kildare)

Extension/Refurbishment

Band 2

18445O

S N Scoil Treasa Kilshanroe (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

18449W

St Conleths N S Derrinturn (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 3

19455W

St. Mark’s Special School, Piercetosn, Newbridge

Extension/Refurb

Band 1

18644U

Straffan N S Straffan (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

18650P

Newtown Ns Enfield (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

18666H

Tiremohan National School, Donadea, Naas, (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 1

20114D

Scoil Bríd Oldtown (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 1

20257C

Sc Naomh Padraig, Celbridge

New School

Band 1

61681V

Patrician Secondary School (Kildare)

Extension

Band 2

61690W

Cross And Passion College Kilcullen (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

70660O

Curragh Post-Primary School Mcswiney Road (Kildare)

New School

Band 2

70670R

Colaiste Lorcain Castledermot (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

70710D

St Patrick’S Community College (Kildare)

New School

Band 2

70720G

St. Farnan’s Post primary School, Prosperous

Extension/Refurb

Band 2

91371B

Leixlip Community School Celbridge Road (Kildare)

Extension/Refurb

Band 1

Special Educational Needs

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

131 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the extent to which autism or other special needs units are located, available and fully operational at various schools and locations throughout County Kildare; the extent to which he expects to be in a position to ensure the continuation, expansion or extension to other of such facilities to such schools or other schools in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35156/11]

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible for the provision of a range of educational services at local and national level for students with special educational needs. In particular, its network of Special Education Needs Organisers (SENOs) co-ordinates special needs education provision at local level and arranges for the delivery of special educational services including the approval of special classes for children with special needs. The SENOs 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. I have arranged for the information requested by the Deputy to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct response.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

132 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the total number of children currently attending the various special needs classes at mainstream education throughout County Kildare; the number of children with special needs attending in which no special needs units exist; the number of applications on hand for access to special needs classes; the extent to which it is expected that this requirements can be met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35157/11]

The Deputy will be aware that my Department provides for the education of children with special educational needs through a number of support mechanisms depending on the child's assessed disability. In general, educational provision for children with special needs is made; in special schools; in special classes attached to ordinary schools; or in integrated settings in mainstream classes.

The nature and level of the educational response is based on the professionally-assessed needs of each individual child. My Departments policy is to ensure the maximum possible integration of children with special needs into ordinary mainstream schools. Many students with special educational needs will therefore not require or seek a special class placement, but will be educated along with their peers in mainstream provision, with additional supports.

I wish to advise the Deputy 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, including the area referred to by the Deputy, as required and the discontinuation of such classes where the need no longer exists.

I have therefore arranged for the Deputy's question to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.

Schools Refurbishment

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

133 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Skills if any emergency funding will be made available to a school (details supplied) which, although due shortly to start construction of a new school, is extremely concerned about the number of pressure cracks resulting from the deterioration in the structure of the current building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35204/11]

My Department has no record of having received an application for emergency funding from this school for the works referred to by the Deputy.

Should an application be received it will be assessed and the school authorities will be notified of the outcome.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

134 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the concerns among Protestant faith schools of the impact on their future sustainability of any increase in pupil-teacher ratios in view of the removal in 2009 of the funding which traditionally safeguarded their viability and the impact this had on pupil-teacher ratios in these Protestant faith based schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35205/11]

I, along with my colleagues in Government, recognise the importance of ensuring that students from a Protestant background can attend a school that reflects their denominational ethos. 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 frontline 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.

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

135 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which currently exist within his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of each, listing in particular full name, location, the total amount of funding allocated to each in 2011 and total staff number; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since he took office, and the total amount of savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of budget 2012; if he will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying in particular their annual running costs, primary function, and staff number in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within his Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34902/11]

The question of rationalisation and the reduction in the number of State bodies is being considered in the context of the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure and the overall budgetary and estimates process for 2012, and decisions on such matters will be made by the Government over the coming weeks.

The priorities set out in the Programme for Government for the rationalisation of State Agencies states that rationalisation must be cost effective and lead to a more transparent, democratically accountable and efficient public service. This underscores the need for radical streamlining of bodies, abolishing those bodies whose remit is no longer essential and amalgamation of other agencies or sharing of services between bodies. All State agencies will be subject to critical evaluation in this overall context and the outcome of the Government's deliberations will be published in due course.

In relation to my own Department the following tables give details requested by the Deputy in relation to bodies under the aegis of my Department. Table A outlines details in relation to bodies in receipt of Exchequer funding and Table B outlines details in relation to board.

Table A bodies in receipt of exchequer Funding

Name of Body

Location

Budget 2011

Staff Numbers

Special EU Programmes Body

Belfast Office, 7th Floor, The Clarence West Building, 2 Clarence Street West, Belfast, BT2 7GPOmagh Office, EU House, 11 Kevlin Road, Omagh, Northern Ireland, BT78 1LBMonaghan Office M:Tek II Building Armagh Road MonaghanIreland

The 2011 Budget for the Body is €78,741,000. This breaks down as follows:€76,075,000 Programme Expenditure (expenditure under the EU co-funded PEACE III and INTERREG IVA Programmes), and€2,666,000 Administration Expenditure.The Body’s Budget is provided by Irish and Northern Irish Government Departments. The Irish contribution to the 2011 Budget is:€28,406,000 Programme (note that a large portion of this is recoupable from EU)€1,242,500 Administration.The Body’s Administration costs are co-funded by the Department of Finance and Personnel in Northern Ireland and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform,

65

Civil Service Arbitration BoardCivil Service Disciplinary Code Appeal BoardIndependent Mediator for the Civil Service

No fixed location.The Board meet at various locations as required

A separate budget for each Board is not provided. The budget for the Boards in included in an overall budget of €43,000 which includes provision for payments to the Civil Service Adjudicator and the Independent Mediator for the Civil Service, as may arise.

No Staff

Outside Appointments Board

No fixed location meets at various locations as required

€2,296 — legal fees€9,200 —to be paid at end of 2011 in relation to fees for 3 board members.2 additional members receive no fee as they are Government Officials

No Staff

Valuation Tribunal

Valuation Tribunal, Ormond House, Ormond Quay Upper, Dublin 7

€574,000

8 in total 5 Permanent and 3 Temporary (to July 2012)

Board of Public Appointments Service

Meets every two months in the Public Service, Chapter House 26-30 Abbey Street Upper Dublin 1.

€17,130 approx9 Board Members appointed on 1 September 2011

No Staff

Table B

Name of Body

Location

Board Numbers

An Post National Lottery Company

An Post National Lottery CompanyAbbey Street Lower, Dublin 1

7

None of the above bodies has been abolished .

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

136 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the names of all persons nominated by him or by a Minister of State at his Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34989/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is as follows:

Arbitration Boards

As Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform I nominated the following re-appointments to the Arbitration Boards under the terms of the conciliation and arbitration schemes for the civil service, the Defence Forces, Gardaí and Teachers:

Mr. Turlough O'Donnell, SC, Chairperson;

Mr. Gerard Barry, Government nominee;

Mr. Tom Wall, staff side representative in the cases of the conciliation and arbitration schemes for the Civil Service and Teachers;

Mr. George Maybury, staff side representative in the case of the conciliation and arbitration scheme for the Defence Forces;

Mr. Hugh O'Flaherty, staff side representative in the case of the conciliation and arbitration scheme for the Gardaí.

Mr Kieran McGovern, was nominated as the Adjudicator.

The duration of these appointments is for the period ending 30th June 2012.

Valuation Tribunal

The following reappointments and appointments was made with effect from the 1 September 2011

Reappointments:

Mr Maurice Ahern, Valuer, Ordinary Member and Deputy Chairperson

Mr Frank O'Donnell, BAgrSc, FIAVI, Ordinary Member

Mr Michael F Lyng, Valuer Ordinary Member

Mr Patrick Riney, FSCS, FRICS, FIAVI Ordinary Member.

Appointments:

Mr Tom O'Driscoll Ordinary Member

Mr Thomas Collins Ordinary Member

Mr Niall O'Hanlon Deputy Chairperson (had been serving as an ordinary member)

Public Appointments Service

Mr. Eddie Sullivan, Chairman

Mr. Des Dowling, Assistant Secretary — Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government

Ms Deirdre O'Keeffe, Assistant Secretary — Department of Justice and Equality

Ms Patricia Coleman, Director — Department of Public Expenditure and Reform

Mr. Seán McGrath — National Director of HR in the HSE

Ms Judith Eve former Chairperson the Civil Service Commissioners, Northern Ireland

Mr. Eddie Molloy HR Consultant

Mr. Dan Murphy, former General Secretary of the PSEU — nominated by ICTU

Mr. Bryan Andrews as CEO of the PAS holding office on an ex officio basis.

All appointments made with effect from 1 September 2011.

Flood Relief

Brendan Griffin

Question:

137 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a project (details supplied) in County Kerry will be prioritised for flood prevention works in view of the many homes that are threatened by flood waters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35034/11]

Consultants are due to be appointed shortly to the South West CFRAM (Catchment Flood Risk Assessment & Management) Study as part of the national programme being undertaken by the Office of Public Works. As part of the early work of this study, the flood risk to Sneem will be reviewed. It is not possible at this stage, therefore, to say if it will be part of the detailed CFRAM assessment.

Based on the outcome of the flood risk review, the Minor Works application will be further considered.

Brendan Griffin

Question:

138 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a project (details supplied) in County Kerry will be reconsidered by the Office of Public Works in view of the fact that residents feel that the OPW is legally obliged to address the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35035/11]

The Office of Public Works is not responsible for the maintenance of former Land Commission embankments.

Kerry County Council has submitted an application this year under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works & Coastal Protection Scheme for funding of €350,000 to undertake embankment strengthening works at this location. A decision on this application will be made shortly.

Capital Spending

Willie O'Dea

Question:

139 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the net impact on jobs of changes agreed for capital spending in his Department and the nature of all studies which he has undertaken on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35051/11]

The Medium-Term Fiscal Statement published by the Government on 4 November detailed the budgetary parameters for the next four years including the revised current and capital envelopes. The Medium-Term Fiscal Statement also set out and discussed the economic and fiscal projections for the period ahead that are consistent with those budgetary parameters. As regards employment, the economy is expected to be creating jobs on a net basis by the end of next year, with the pace of hiring forecast to strengthen in subsequent years.

In considering the Capital envelope and the Government's detailed Capital Review that I published last week, it is first necessary to realise that most of the economy's key infrastructural deficits have been addressed through a massive capital investment of about €70bn over the last decade. The Budgetary situation requires spending to be prioritised and the Public Capital Programme to be scaled back.

The Review made a point of protecting supports to the enterprise sector primarily through agencies such as Enterprise Ireland and the IDA. The unprecedented level of investment over the past few years and in 2012 delivered through the Enterprise Development Agencies can foster sustainable and valuable employment in the exporting sectors of the economy which will be critical to recovery. While the overall capital envelope for 2012 has been reduced, we have actually held the level of capital allocation for the enterprise sector relative to the preceding period.

The State will be spending some €17 billion over the next five years on activities throughout the country and this will help support employment in many key areas. It is important to note that less expensive re-fit, refurbishment, and up-grade works can be more labour-intensive than larger capital-intensive projects that have been deferred.

Public Service Recruitment Embargo

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

140 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will report on the operation of the public service embargo in 2011; the number of additional posts that have been filled to date in 2011; the net impact on the Civil Service and the wider public service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35063/11]

The Programme for Government commits to reducing further the size of the public service, while seeking to protect front-line services.

Tomorrow, 17th November, as a further event in the Government's series of announcements as part of our Budget and Estimates process, I will be setting out an ambitious programme of Public Sector reform. Tomorrow's announcement will include the public sector numbers targets that the Government has now decided upon for the period 2012 to 2015, together with an update on public sector numbers performance for the year to date.

The Deputy has also requested data about the Moratorium exceptions for this year; the following tables set out the exceptions as reported to my Department from the introduction of the Moratorium to date.

Table 1 Civil Service

Dept/Office Title

Exception Sought¹

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

Courts Service

5 Legal Researchers

Legal Researchers

5

Approved

01-Jun-09

5

Approved but next 6 Tipstaff to be suppressed

1 CO in Limerick from PAS CO panel

CO

1

Approved

18-Nov-09

1

1 CO from PAS

1 CO in Waterford from PAS CO panel

CO

1

Approved

18-Nov-09

1

1 CO from PAS

Dep Gen Solicitor (AP) acting to Gen Solicitor (PO) to be made substantive

Gen Solicitor

1

Approved

06-Nov-09

1

Sanctioned as substantive Gen Solicitor on basis of suppressing Dep Gen Solicitor post

Tip staffs (criers and ushers) for judiciary

Tip Staff (criers and ushers)

5

Approved

11-Mar-10

5

Operational needs.

Permanent Court messenger Galway

Court Messenger

1

Approved

21-Jan-10

1

Statutory requirements

10 Judicial Fellowships to the High Court

Fellowships

10

Approved

16-Jun-10

10

Fellows considered to provide key support to the Judiciary

4 Assistant Principal Officer posts in Dublin

Assistant Principal

4

Part Approved

01-Nov-10

2

3 to replace 4 normal retirements and 1 lateral transfer

3 Executive Officers in Dublin

Executive Officer

3

Not Granted

2 to replace retirements and 1 to replace transfer

1 Clerical Officer Wexford/Waterford

Clerical Officer

1

Not Granted

To replace staff member transferring to a Garda Station

Service Officer with Allowance for Dublin

Service Officer

1

Not Granted

Vacancy created on retirement of incumbent

1 Higher Executive Officer Wexford

HEO

1

Approved

19-Oct-10

1

1 Executive Officer Clonmel

EO

1

Approved

19-Oct-10

1

Judicial Secretaries

CO

2

Approved

19-Oct-10

2

Private Secretary to President High Court

CO

1

Approved

01-Nov-10

1

Essential Post

Registrar Special Criminal Court

AP

1

Refused

Operational needs.

Tip staffs (criers and ushers) for judiciary

Tip Staff (criers and ushers)

1

Approved

20-Dec-10

1

Operational needs.

Tip staffs (criers and ushers) for judiciary

Tip Staff (criers and ushers)

1

Approved

10-May-11

1

Operational needs.

Crier for Circuit Court Judge

Tip Staff (criers and ushers)

1

Approved

26-Jul-11

1

Operational needs.

Usher

Tip Staff (criers and ushers)

1

Approved

26-Jul-11

1

Operational needs.

Executive Legal Assistant to Chief Justice

Executive Legal Officer

1

Approved

26-Jul-11

1

Operational needs.

Judicial Researcher

Legal Researchers

3

Approved

31-Aug-11

3

Operational needs.

PRA

35 Technical Promotions

Examiner of Maps

35

Part Approved

During 2009

20

20 Mapping Draughtspersons promoted to next level. Old grade defunct while their new grade has big workload. Part Granted (no allowance for 15 staff)

Deputy Registrar, Head of Operations (departmental grade, Director equivalent)

Deputy Registrar

1

Approved

09-Mar-10

1

Business Critical Post

Mapping Advisor, (departmental grade, PO standard equivalent)

Mapping Advisor

1

Approved

09-Mar-10

1

Business Critical Post

Personnel Officer, (PO standard)

PO

1

Approved

09-Mar-10

1

Business Critical Post

2 AP higher and 2 AP standard

AP

4

Part Approved

09-Mar-10

1

Promotions

3 Service Officer Posts for Roscommon Office

Service Officer

3

Approved

11-Aug-10

3

CEO replacement

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

10-Feb-11

JELR

CEO Legal Aid Board

CEO

1

Approved

28-Aug-09

1

Statutory Post, extension for a 5 year fixed term contract

CEO Equality Authority

CEO

1

Approved

23-Apr-09

1

Statutory Post, extension for a 5 year fixed term contract

Employment Assistance Officer (EAO)

Employment Assistance Officer

1

Approved

06-May-09

1

Existing Civil Servant, cost neutral

Garda Inspectorate — 2 members

Garda Inspectorate

2

Approved

07-Aug-09

2

2 new members of Inspectorate sanctioned for a 2 year period

Deputy Chief State Pathologist

Deputy Chief State Pathologist

1

Approved

07-Jul-09

1

Exception made to make temp contract established (see file )

Head of IT

Head of IT

1

Approved

17-Feb-10

1

Acting up allowance for 1 year

2 Legal Researchers -INIS/ORAC

Legal Researcher

2

Approved

02-Feb-10

2

Renewal of Contracts for 1 year

Director General (Dep Sec)

DG

1

Part Approved

25-May-10

1

Approved at lower level.

International Policy (Asst Sec)

Asst Sec

1

Suppressed

01-May-10

0

JELR ISER 10 PO posts

PO

8

Part Approved

4

JELR shared services (Payroll Project Team 1 AP, 2 HEOs and 1 EO)

EO to AP

5

Under Consideration

JELR shared services (1 AP, 2 EOs and 2 COs)

CO to AP

5

Under Consideration

12 Junior Solicitors — Legal Aid Board

Solicitors

12

Approved

15-Apr-10

12

Value for Money

Office of Data Protection Commissioner Commissioner, 5 year contract

Asst Sec

1

Approved

26-May-10

1

Statutory Post, extension for a 5 year fixed term contract

National Manager of Detention School Services

1

Under Consideration

Deputy Director Probation Services

1

Refused

1 Senior Legal Researcher

1

Refused

4 Legal Researchers

4

Approved

3

Essential expertise needed

Senior Investigations Officer GSOC

AP

1

Refused

3 Forensic Scientists Grade III

3

Refused

2 Scientists

2

Refused

Assistant Principal Probation Officer

AP

1

Refused

Probation Officers

5

Refused

3 Assistant Principal

AP

3

Part Approved

26-Aug-10

2

Business Critical Posts

7 Executive Officers

EO

7

Part Approved

26-Aug-10

3

Business Critical Posts

2 Senior Probation Officers

Senior Probation Officers

2

Approved

26-Aug-10

2

Business Critical Posts

8 Probation Officers

Probation Officers

8

Approved

26-Aug-10

8

Business Critical Posts

5 Community Service Supervisors

Community Service Supervisors

5

Part Approved

26-Aug-10

3

Business Critical Posts

Refugee Appeals Tribunal -Chairperson of Refugee Appeals Tribunal

1

Approved

30-Aug-10

1

Statutory Post

A/Sec — Finance and Corporate

Asst Sec

1

Approved

30-Sep-10

1

2 Executive Officers Anti-Money Laundering Unit

EO

2

Approved

22-Oct-10

2

Business Critical Posts

Extradition & Mutual Assistance Unit, Increased e-data.

1 HEO, 2EOs, 2 COs

5

Part Approved

09-Nov-10

3

Increased Statutory function

GSOC Head of Communications

1 PO

1

Part Approved

December

1

Business Critical Posts

Driver Inspector of Prisons

Driver

1

Approved

26-Oct-10

1

Allowance for GSOC PA

CO

1

Approved

08-Nov-10

1

Minister Alan Shatter

Special Advisor

1

Approved

24-Mar-11

1

Ministerial Appointment

Special Advisor

1

Approved

1

Ministerial Appointment

Personal Secretary

1

Approved

1

Ministerial Appointment

Minister of State for Defence Paul Kehoe

Special Adviser

1

Approved

1

Ministerial Appointment

Minister Alan Shatter

Personal Assistant

1

Approved

23-May-11

1

Ministerial Appointment

10 Executive Officers INIS

Executive Officers

10

Under consideration

4 Higher Executive Officers INIS

Higher Executive Officers

4

Under consideration

4 Assistant Principal

Assistant Principal

4

Under consideration

Coroner

Coroner

1

Approved

19-Sep-11

1

Taxing Master

Taxing Master

Approved

01-Aug-11

1

Irish Prison Service

Renewal of Contract for the Director General

Director General

1

Approved

June 09

1

Renewal of 5 year contract

Chief Officer competition

Chief Officer

1

Approved

31-Jul-09

1

Prison operational reasons.

40 Recruit Prison Officers

Prison Officer

40

Approved

31-Jul-09

40

Prison operational reasons.

3 Governor 1’s

Governor

3

Approved

31-Jul-09

3

Prison operational reasons.

2 Governor 2 posts

Governor

2

Approved

20/10/09

2

Prison operational reasons.

1 Governor 2 Post

Governor

1

Approved

20/10/09

1

Prison operational reasons.

Recruit grade prison officers

Prison Officers

40

Part Approved

23-Oct-09

40

Prison operational reasons.

Mandatory Drug Testing (Allowances)

2

Approved

13-Oct-09

2

Prison operational reasons.

Governor posts

Governor

15

Approved

01-Feb-09

15

Fill front line vacancies in prisons

Recruit grade prison officers

Prison Officer

40

Approved

22-Jan-10

40

38 recruit prison officers and 2 psychologists

Assistant Chief Officer

Asst Chief Officer

15

Approved

11-Feb-10

1

Governor III

Governor

1

Under Consideration

Required for Transformation Implementation Team

Assistant Governor

Asst Gov

1

Under Consideration

Required for Transformation Implementation Team

150 Prison Officers

Recruit Prison Officer

150

Approved

19-May-10

150

Prison operational reasons.

14 promotions to Assistant Chief Officer

Assistant Chief Officer

14

Approved

05-Jul-10

14

Prison operational reasons.

Allowance for campus Governor

Governor 1

1

1 Assistant Principal

AP

1

Approved

Oct

1

Required for Transformation Implementation Team

2 Clerical Officers

CO

2

Refused

Required for Transformation Implementation Team

9 Chief Officer I

Chief Officer I

9

Part Approved

18-Oct-10

5

Prison operational reasons.

9 Chief Officer II

Chief Officer II

9

Part Approved

18-Oct-10

5

Prison operational reasons.

Psychologists Grade II

Psychologists Grade II

2

Approved

December

2

Prison operational reasons.

4 Psychology Assistants

Psychology Assistants

4

Under Consideration

10 Nurse Officer Posts

Nurse Officers

10

Refused

October

Coordinator of Education

1

Under Consideration

5 Governor III posts

Governor III

5

Approved

15-Jul-10

5

Prison operational reasons.

2 Governor I posts

Governor I

2

Approved

15-Jul-10

2

Prison operational reasons.

1 Assistant Governor

Asst Gov

1

Approved

15-Jul-10

1

Prison operational reasons.

Psychologists Grade II

Psychologists Grade II

2

Approved

03-Sep-10

2

Prison operational reasons.

150 Prison Officers

Prison Officers

150

Part Approved

27-Sep-10

80

Assistant Industrial Supervisors

Assistant Industrial Supervisors (prison officers)

64

Part Approved

01-Dec-10

32

Prison operational reasons.

Prison Drs (1+panel)

1

Approved

14-Feb-11

1

Prison operational reasons.

4 Gov 2 promotions

Gov Grade 2

4

Approved

01-Jul-11

4

Operational Critical

DG of the Prison Service

1

Approved

01-Aug-11

1

Operational Critical

Garda Civilians

GPO head of HR strategy

PO

1

Not Granted

Head of Garda Infor Services centre

PO

1

Not Granted

Head of Training unit Templemore

AP

1

Approved

12-Mar-10

1

1 year contract extension

IT staff 9

Various

9

Part Granted

19-Apr-11

4

2 HEOs and 2 EOs subject to CMOD approval

31 staff for emergency call answering

CO

31

Refused

01-Jun-10

35 Staff for Garda Vetting Unit

CO

35

Part Granted

16-Feb-11

10

six month contracts to clear backlog

Head of legal affairs

PO higher

1

Approved

19-Apr-11

1

OSCAM

Various

4

Part Granted

19-Apr-11

2

GISC

HEO

3

Approved

19-Apr-11

3

Accident Damage Manager

HEO

1

Not Granted

19-Apr-11

0

Vehicle inspectors

EO

2

Part Granted

19-Apr-11

1

Dr

Dr

1

Not Granted

19-Apr-11

0

HR manager

HEO

2

Approved

19-Apr-11

2

Crime analyst

HEO

2

Not Granted

19-Apr-11

0

GNIB

EO

6

Under consideration

Head Grooms Person — An Garda Siochana

Head Grooms Person

1

Under consideration

Replacement for retirement

D/E&S

Programme for Govt 22 Psychologist & 3 SENO staff

Psychologists/SENO

25

Approved

25-May-09

25

Extending a service and reducing spend on panel scheme

Chief Inspector vacancy from retirement

Chief Inspector

1

1 Approved

Nov 09

1

Business Critical Post

DES

A/Secretary post

Asst Secretary

2

1 Approved

08-Oct-09

1

Business Critical Post

SEC

CEO of State Examinations Commission

Asst Secretary

1

1 Approved

08-Oct-09

1

Business Critical Post

School Inspectorate

10 Retired School Inspectors

10

10 Approved

03-Feb-10

10

NCCA

NCCA

8 Education Officers (temp.)

8

8 Approved

22-Jun-10

8

Business Critical Post

SEC

SEC

EAM (maths)

1

1 Approved

16-Sep-10

1

Specialist post

NCCA

NCCA

Director Curr. Assess.

1

1 Approved

22-Sep-10

1

Business Critical Post

Inspectorate

Deputy Chief Inspector

1

1 Approved

19-Oct-10

1

Business Critical Post

CICA

Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse

Secretary/Principal Officer

1

1 Approved

16-Nov-10

1

Business Critical Post

NCSE

NCSE

CEO (Asst. Sec)

1

1 Approved

01-Nov-10

1

Business Critical Post

SEC

SEC

CO & Porters

1,600 & 340 worker weeks

Approved

10-Feb-11

1,940 worker weeks

Business Critical Post (L & Jun Cert)

SEC

Director of Operations, State Exams Commission

Director

1

1 Approved

17-Feb-11

1

Business Critical Post

SEC

SEC

Director (HEAD)

1

1 Approved

09-Mar-11

1

Business Critical Post

DES

Mins. Office

Special Advisor (PO)

1

1 Approved

07-Apr-11

Min. appointment (Quinn)

DES

Mins. Office

Personal Assistant to Min Cannon

1

1 Approved

07-Apr-11

1

Min. appointment (Cannon)

DES

Mins. Office

Civilian drivers

2

1 Approved

07-Apr-11

2

Min. appointment (Cannon)

DES

Mins. Office

Personal Assistant to Min Quinn

1

1 Approved

01-May-11

1

Min. appointment (Quinn)

DES

Mins. Office

Personal Secretary to Min Quinn

1

1 Approved

01-May-11

1

Min. appointment (Quinn)

DES

Mins. Office

Civilian Driver

1

1 Approved

13-May-11

1

Min. appointment (Quinn)

DES

Mins. Office

Special Advisor (PO)

1

1 Approved

01-Jun-11

1

Min. appointment (Quinn)

DES

Mins. Office

Personal secretary

1

1 Approved

01-Jun-11

1

Min. appointment (Cannon)

DES

Mins. Office

Civilian Driver

1

1 Approved

01-Jun-11

1

Min. appointment (Quinn)

DES

3 Post-primary Inspectors

Education

3

2 approved

20-May-11

2

to hold a competition for possible vacancies in the primary & post-primary inspectorate (specific sanction required for any appointment by D/Fin)

DES

4 Temp COs from PAS + 2 redeployed from other local depts.

CO

6

6 approved

03-Jun-11

6

4 Temp COs from PAS + 2 redeployed from other local depts to cover absences in large scale operational areas.

NCCA

1 new education officer and replace 2 others in August and fill 1 Director post

3 Education Officer 1 Director

4

part approved

05-Jul-11

2

replacement of an existing 2 Education officers post from 1/9/2011 sanctioned. 1 Education Officer post for Early Childhood Education and Primary Language education and 1 Director post pending (more info required) .

CSO

replace senior statistician on 5 year secondment

Senior statistician

1

approved

06-Jul-11

1

replacement will return to CSO when DES statistician returns from ICTU

NCCA

CEO

CEO

1

approved

25-Aug-11

1

CEO of NCCA by PAS following publicly advertised competition

SEC

6 month extension for Acting up to Asst Head of the Examinations & Assessment Division

Asst Head

1

approved

04-Oct-11

1

6 month extension for Acting up to Asst Head due to long term sick leave of job holder.

SEC

1 Asst. Head of E&A Div, 4 Examination & Assment Managers, 1 APO, 1 Cleaner(Superintendent in Charge)

1 Asst. Head of E&A Div, 4 Examination & Assessment Managers, 1 APO, 1 Cleaner (Superintendent in Charge)

7

approved

17-Oct-11

7

1 Asst. Head of Examination & Assessment Managers Div, 4 Examination & Assessment Managers, 1 APO due to retirements and restructuring at mgmt level, 1 Cleaner (Superintendent in Charge) due to retirement and sick leave.

D/Social Protection

New Management Board Structure

A/Sec and Director

4

Agree in principle to fill two of three A/Sec arising in ‘09 and to replace over ‘09 and ‘10 four departing Directors by two /Secs.

Decision by Minister 8/10/09 to proceed. Sanction issued 19 April ‘10 to appoint 2 A/Secs to replace 4 departing Directors.

4

Agreed to restructure responsibilities at Mgt Board level from 5 A/Sec and 5 Directors to 6 A/Sec and 1 Director.

To fill vacancy resulting from retirement in Child Family & Supplementary Policy & Services

Asst Secretary

1

Approved

Oct-09

1

Business Critical Post

Regional & Pensions Service Delivery

Asst Secretary

1

Approved

Oct-09

1

Business Critical Post

General Register Office

Asst Secretary

1

Refused

0

GPs required to operate med assessment scheme

Medical Assessors

4

Approved

09-Nov-09

4

Control function in monitoring validity of illness cases

Dep Head for med assessment scheme

Deputy Chief Medical Advisor

1

Approved

13-Jul-09

1

To provide management level to ensure appropriate monitoring of illness cases

Director — This is a statutory post

Chief Appeals Officer

1

Approved

23-Oct-09

1

Statutory Requirement to have Director in place

Head of Office — renewal of contract

Pension Ombudsman

1

Approved

01-Apr-09

1

Statutory requirement to have Ombudsman in place

3 posts sanctioned for Buncrana Office Donegal

Service Officer

3

Approved

24-Aug-09

3

Not possible to recruit Service Officer staff locally or via CAF

8 Buncrana Office Donegal

Staff Officer

8

Approved

06-Oct-09

8

Supervisory posts

Promotions (Dundalk)

CO to SO

20

Approved

01-Jul-09

20

Reduce Live Register “waiting time” for new claimants

Promotions Dundalk Initiative

CO to SO

25

Approved

23-Dec-09

25

Reduce Live Register “waiting time” for new claimants

Sanction to run competition for PO post in Sligo

Principal Officer

Approved

18-Jan-10

1

No assignment to date

Package of up to 100 posts being requested — 50 promotions in 2010 and 50 in 2011.

SO, EO and HEO, AP,

100

Part Approved

25-Mar-10

20

To deal with increases in the Live Register

Social Welfare Appeals Officers (Retired)

AP

12

Approved

20-May-10

12

Backlog of Appeals office Claims requiring decisions

Special Adviser to Minister

PO Standard

1

Approved

06-May-10

1

Ministerial appointments to D/SP

Special Media Adviser to Minister

PO Standard

1

Approved

06-May-10

1

Ministerial appointments to D/SP

Personal Assistant to Minister

HEO

1

Approved

06-May-10

1

Ministerial appointments to D/SP

Personal Secretary to Minister

Personal Secretary

1

Approved

06-May-10

1

Ministerial appointments to D/SP

Request to fill posts by internal competition

PO, AP and HEO

3

Approved

17-Aug-10

3

Essential to the maintenance of critical IT projects connected with increased workload arising from increases in the Live Register and also resulting from the integration of IT systems associated with transfers of functions to the D/SP. PO post is to be filled from existing internal panel while other 2 posts are to filled from redeployment if possible.

Medical Assessors

Medical Assessors

13-Jul-10

Approval given to run competition — additional sanction will be required to fill posts. The Medical Review and Assessment Services (MRAS) is the principal control mechanism for illness, disability and carer payment schemes administered by DSP.

Filling of Senior Management Posts

1 Deputy Secretary and 1 Assistant Secretary

2

Under Consideration

Business Critical Posts

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary

1

Approved

20-Apr-11

1

Ministerial Appointment

Filling of Senior Management Posts

1 Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

27-Apr-11

1

Approved on a redeployment basis

Payment of PO acting up allowance

PO

2

Approved

10-May-11

2

Appointment of civilian driver

Civilian Driver

1

Approved

25-May-11

1

Ministerial Appointment

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Advisor

1

Approved

15-Jun-11

1

Ministerial Appointment

Appointment of civilian driver

Civilian Driver

1

Approved

16-Jun-11

1

Ministerial Appointment

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Advisor

1

Approved

28-Jun-11

1

Ministerial Appointment

Principal Officer

5

Sanction to hold a PO competition to fill 5 vacancies

26-Jul-11

Competition to be conducted by the Public Appointments Service.

D/AFF

Filling of vacancy in Direct Payment Schemes

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

10-Jul-09

1

Business Critical Post

Acting up allowance

HEO

1

Approved

02-Oct-09

1

Filling of 2 A/Sec posts

Assistant Secretary

2

Part Approved

19-Mar-10

1

Senior Management, technical and scientific (45) to address skills deficits and ensure EU directives compliance

Various

45

Part Approved

19-Mar-10

21

Statutory posts

Audit & Senior management

2

Approved

19-Mar-10

2

Re-engagement of an Asst. Sec on pension abatement basis

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

06-Oct-10

1

Business Critical Post

Re-engagement of an Asst. Sec on pension abatement basis

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

22-Oct-11

1

Business Critical Post

Senior Management and Technical Posts

Various

54

Part Approved

07-Dec-10

20

Business Critical Post

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers, special advisers

8

Approved

10-Mar-11

8

Ministerial Appointments

appointment of AP

AP

1

Approved

21-Apr-11

1

15 Aps retired in the previous 2 years. Consequential HEO vacancy will not be filled

Appointment of Chief Veterinary Officer and Director of Laboratories

Chief Veterinary Officer, Director of Laboratories

2

Approved

20-Jul-11

2

Business Critical Post

Filling of vacancies in service delivery posts

Various

42

Part Approved

20-Jul-11

18

Delivery of service

D/EH&LG

To replace retiring and promoted Assistant Secretary

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

19/6/09

1

Business Critical Post

Request for 35 posts, 14 via promotion and 21 via recruitment

various Tech and administrative grades

35

Part Approved

27/03/2010

22

8 Posts in the National Parks & Wildlife Service:1 Grade 1 Inspector, 1 Grade 11 Inspector, 4 Grade 111 Inspectors, 2 Conservation Rangers. 6 Posts in Met Éireann: 1 Assistant Director, 1 Meteorologist, 4 Meteorological Officers 3 Other Professional/Technical Posts 1 Water Quality Inspector, 1 Principal Adviser (Environment Inspectorate), 1 Inspector Grade 111, 5 General Service Posts 1 Principal Officer, 2 Assistant Principals, 1 Administrative Officer, 1 Executive Officer.

Met Eireann — Director

Director

1

Approved

18-Sep-09

1

Business Critical Post

To replace Principal on loan

PO

1

Approved

29/1/10

1

Acting position

To replace retired assistant secretary — Heritage Division

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

21-Apr-10

1

Business Critical Post — already deferred for 1 year

Replace retiree

GIS Manager

1

Approved

10-Jun-10

1

Required technical post

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers, special advisers

5

Approved

various 10 March 2011 to 21 March 2011

5

Ministerial Appointments

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Civilian Drivers and Special Advisors

5

Approved

various 9 May 2011 to 19 July 2011

5

Ministerial Appointments

Regularisation of Secondment

Building Standards Advisor

1

Approved

03-Aug-11

1

Business Critical Post

Met Eireann — Principal Meteorological Officer

Principal Meteorological Officer

1

Approved

05-Aug-11

1

Business Critical Post

Met Eireann — Application for 11 posts

Senior Meteorologist, Meteorologist, Meteorological Officer

11

Pending

Enterprise, Trade and Innovation

Labour Relations Commission

Reappointment of 2 Rights Commissioners

PO equivalent

2

Approved

28/04/2009

2

Non-discretionary volume of LRC cases and need to maintain state IR machinery.

DETI

Personal Assistant, Personal Secretary and 2 Civilian Drivers for Minister of State Kelleher

HEO, EO, Civilian Driver

4

Approved

06/05/2009

4

Political Appointments

DETI

Personal Assistant, Personal Secretary and 2 Civilian Drivers for Minister of State Lenihan

HEO, EO, Civilian Driver

4

Approved

12/05/2009

4

Political Appointments

ET&I (Labour Relations Commission)

Deputy Director of Conciliation Services

PO

1

Approved

29/5/2009

1

Business Critical Post in LRC necessary to maintain state IR machinery.

Personal Assistant, Personal Secretary and 2 Civilian Drivers for Minister of State Calleary

HEO, EO, Civilian Driver

4

Approved

09/06/2009

4

Political Appointments

ET&I (Labour Court)

Reappointment of 2 Members of Labour Court

N/A

2

Approved

02/06/2009

2

Statutory posts needed for operation of divisions of Labour Court

ET&I (Office of Director of Corporate Enforcement)

Part-time services of retired High Court Judge

High Court Judge

1

Approved

03/06/2009

1

To adjudicate on legal documents in Anglo Irish Bank investigation

ET&I (Labour Relations Commission)

Reappointment of 2 Rights Commissioners

PO equivalent

2

Approved

13/08/2009

2

Non-discretionary volume of LRC cases and need to maintain state IR machinery.

ET&I (National Employment Rights Authority)

Solicitor

Solicitor

1

Application was refused

10/09/2009

0

ET&I (Patents Office)

Request for higher duties allowances for 2 EOs

HEO

2

Approved

10/09/2009

2

Temporary replacements in Trademarks Division

ET&I

Renew contracts of 2 legal researchers

EO

2

Approved

16/09/2009

2

To provide research for drawing up Companies Consolidation bill. 2 EO posts to be suppressed for duration of temporary contract.

ET&I (Labour Court)

Deputy Chairman of Labour Court

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

31/01/2010

1

Statutory post. Filled by agreement by ICTU nominee.

ET&I

Additional 10 IT posts

HEO and EO

10

Partly approved

02-Jun-10

3

Critical ICT posts.

ET&I

Appointment of Legal Advisor on secondment from Office of AG

Legal Advisor

1

Approved

24-May-10

1

Critical legal skills requirement.

ET&I (Labour Court)

Filling of Ordinary member of Labour Court post

Principal Officer Higher

1

Approved

26-May-10

1

Statutory post. Filled by retention of member until new nomination is received.

Enterprise, Trade & Innovation

Minister O’Keeffe’s Special Advisors

Principal Officer

2

Approved

18-May-10

2

Political Appointment

Minister O’Keeffe’s Personal Assistant

Higher Executive Officer

1

Approved

18-May-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister O’Keeffe’s Personal Secretary

Executive Officer

1

Approved

18-May-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister of State Lenihan’s Personal Secretary

Executive Officer

1

Approved

21-Jun-10

1

Political Appointment

To give Acting Up to and AO for AP and consequentials to EO and CO

AP, HEO, EO

3

Under consideration

To hold an internal competition to fill 2 AP posts

Assistant Principal

2

Under consideration

Enterprise, Trade & Innovation

To renew the contracts of 2 Legal Researchers

2

Approved

09-Aug-10

2

Contractors working on legislation

Labour Court

To re-appoint the Chairman and 2 Ordinary Members

3

Approved

19-Jul-10

3

Statutory posts.

Labour Relations Commission

Re-appointment of a Rights Commissioner

1

Approved

19-Jul-10

1

Statutory post

NERA

To fill Legal Advisor vacancy

Solicitor (AP)

1

Approved.

13-Sep-10

1

Critical post that will save expenditure on external legal services.

Enterprise, Trade and Innovation

To fill PO vacancies

PO

3

Under consideration

Enterprise, Trade & Innovation

Assistant Secretary post

Assistant Secretary

1

Under consideration

Ass Sec posts have reduced from 7 to 4 since April. Post in CSD area — arises due to retirement

NERA

To fill Accountant vacancy

Accountant Grade I

1

Under consideration

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers, special advisers

13

Approved

various 10 March 2011 to 11 April 2011

13

Ministerial Appointments

WAM project — temporary placement

graduate

1

Approved

15/03/2011

1

Temporary replacement for 6 months- administered by the Association of Higher Education Access Disability (AHEAD)

Minister of State Sean Sherlock

Personal Assistant

Personal Assistant

1

Approved

01/04/2011

1

Required for Ministerial Office

Personal Secretary

Personal Secretary

1

Approved

01/04/2011

1

Required for Ministerial Office

Civilian Driver

Civilian Driver

1

Approved

01/04/2011

1

Required for Ministerial Office

Civilian Driver

Civilian Driver

1

Approved

01/04/2011

1

Required for Ministerial Office

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers, special advisers

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers, special advisers

4

Approved

21/03/2011

4

Minister Richard Bruton

Personal Assistant

Personal Assistant

1

Approved

12/04/2011

1

Required for Ministerial Office

Personal Secretary

Personal Secretary

1

Approved

12/04/2011

1

Required for Ministerial Office

Press Adviser

Press Adviser

1

Approved

12/04/2011

1

Required for Ministerial Office

EJ&I

To fill AP Vacancy

AP

6

Under Consideration

To Fill PO Vacanct

PO

4

Under Consideration

CEGA

To start up and oversee new Irish SI translation unit.

Director

1

Approved

08/04/2009

1

Response to High Court ruling.

To manage the translation of Statutory Instruments into Irish

Aistritheoir Grád II

1

Approved

08/04/2009

1

Response to High Court ruling.

To manage the translation of Statutory Instruments into Irish

Aistritheoir Grád III

1

Approved

08/04/2009

1

Response to High Court ruling.

Ministerial Staff

Personal Assistant (HEO)

1

Approved

06/05/2009

1

Political Appointment

Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary

1

Approved

06/05/2009

1

Political Appointment

Ministerial Staff

Civilian Driver

1

Approved

30/04/2009

2

Political Appointment

To translate documents into Irish for EU.

Detached National Expert

3

Approved

05/11/2009

3

Temporary fixed term contracts renewed for 1 year.

To replace 2 Assistant Secretaries, one of whom had retired and the other promoted.

Assistant Secretary

2

Approved

23/04/2010 & 14/05/2010

2

Department was operating with only 1 Assistant Sec. Business critical post

Charitable, Donations and Bequests Office

To renew contract of Secretary to Commissioners.

Solicitor (AP)

1

Approved

11-Mar-10

1

Need for continuity during the changeover period leading to the setting up of the Charities Regulatory Authority.

National Advisory Committee on Drugs

To recruit researcher into drugs.

Researcher (AP)

1

Approved

11-Mar-10

1

Sanction granted to Health Research Board to recruit and second the Researcher to the NACD. Post considered a ‘Business Critical Post’.

Minister Carey’s Special Adviser

Principal Officer

1

Approved

19-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister Carey’s Media Advisor

Principal Officer

1

Approved

19-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister Carey’s Personal Assistant

Higher Executive Officer

1

Approved

19-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister Carey’s Personal Secretary

Executive Officer

1

Approved

19-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister of State White’s Personal Assistant

Higher Executive Officer

1

Approved

19-May-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister of State White’s Personal Secretary

Executive Officer

1

Approved

19-May-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister of State White’s Civilian Drivers

Civilian Driver

2

Approved

19-May-10

2

Political Appointment

Ministerial Staff (Minister of State White)

Special Advisor

1

Approved

24-May-10

1

Political Appointment

Additional Assistant Secretary Post

Assistant Secretary

1

Refused but Director post approved

22-Jul-10

1

Critical management post

Equality Authority

Filling of Legal Advisor post

PO

1

Under consideration

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers special advisers

3

Approved

21-Mar-11

3

Ministerial Appointments

To allow substantive AP grade for 4 HEOs who have been on acting up basis for 3 years

AP

4

Approved

09-Mar-11

4

Duration of acting up period.

Finance

Banking specialist (temporary fixed term contract for 3 years)

Banking Specialist (Assistant Secretary level)

1

Approved

21/8/09

1

Urgent need for expertise in banking area.

Director, Language Training Unit; higher duties allowance

Assistant Principal

1

Approved

01-Oct-09

1

Business Critical post

Package of IT posts.

1 ICT AP, 2 ICT E0s, 1 promotion EO to HEO (ICT)

4

Approved

23/12/09

4

Is in line with the ICT staffing recommendations made by the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes

Assistant Secretary in CMOD

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

Jan 2010

1

Business Critical Post

Secretary General

Secretary General

1

Approved

01-Feb-10

1

Business Critical Post

8 POs

Principal

8

Approved

12-Apr-10

8

Business Critical posts in situation where staffing levels were already below approved revised limits

Employee Assistance Officer

Higher Executive officer

1

Under consideration

Staff Officer

Staff Officer

1

Approved

28-Jun-10

1

Business critical post

Second Secretary Financial Services Division

Second Secretary

1

Approved

21-Jul-10

1

Business critical post

Senior Economic Adviser

Senior Economic Adviser

1

Approved

27-Sep-10

1

Business critical post — 3 Year Contract

Asst Principal

Asst Principal

1

Approved

23-Feb-11

1

Business Critical Post for managing re-organised CS Employee Assistance Service

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers, special advisers

3

Approved

03-May-11

3

Ministerial Appointments

Special Adviser

Principal Std Scale

1

Approved

03-May-11

1

Business Critical to Minister’s Office

Personal Assistant

Personal Assistant Scale

1

Approved

02-May-11

1

Business Critical to Minister’s Office

2 Civilian Drivers

Civilian Driver

2

Approved

02-May-11

2

Business Critical to Minister’s Office

Assistant Secretary Banking

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

01-Jul-11

1

Business critical post

HR Manager

Principal Higher

1

Approved

12-Sep-11

1

Business Critical

Package of 200 posts.

Various Grades

200

Approved

22/12/09

200

To fill key management, audit and policy posts to ensure effective tax collection through a mix of redeployment, internal promotion and open competition.

To have internal competition for 2 CO positions in Print Room.

Clerical Officer

2

Approved

17-Feb-10

2

Open to Service Officers — regrading of 2 Service Officer posts to CO and filled by redeployment — with no overall increase in numbers.

Completion of final 2 phases of 2003 Uplift Agreement i.e. uplift of 20 Tax Officers to EO; 28 Higher Tax Officers to HEO & 5 CO Programmers to EO JSA

Uplift of 20 Tax Officers to EO; 28 Higher Tax Officers to HEO & 5 CO Programmers to EO JSA

53

Approved

30-Mar-10

53

Revenue Integration to General Service grades. This was a legacy of the Revenue Agreement on Integration agreed with the Unions following the integration of Customs staff with Tax staff. End result is more effective casework management following targeted training.

Revenue Solicitor and Asst Secretary post in Investigations and Prosecutions Division

Revenue Solicitor and Asst Secretary

2

Approved

22-Apr-10

2

Particular responsibilities attaching to each post.

29 AO ICT; 10 EO (ICT)

30 AO ICT; 10 EO (ICT)

40

Approved

11-Aug-11

40

To strengthen Revenue’s ICT capability while reducing overall ICT costs in medium to longterm, particularly through the displacement of expensive ICT consultants.

Revenue Commissioner

Revenue Commissioner

1

Approved

21-Sep-11

1

Critical for the effective Management of the Office of the Revenue Commissioners.

Creation of additional posts with allowances at Terminal 2 Dublin Airport

6 EOs, 12 COs

18

Approved

28-Sep-11

18

Minimum Customs staff required for T2 at Dublin Airport.

1 Printer (CO level) & 4 Service Officers

1 Printer (CO level) & 4 Service Officers

5

Approved

10-Oct-11

5

To maintain levels at a critical minimum required to ensure offices are able to function and print facility capable of operating at the required level.

Revenue Cutter Commander (HEO level)

Revenue Cutter Commander (HEO level)

1

Approved

13-Oct-11

1

Critical to Revenue’s Maritime Operations Drug Enforcement and blocking of contraband imports campaign

Valuation Office

Promotions

Chief Superintendents of Mapping

2

Approved

2

Element of restructuring plan for VO.

Higher Superintendents of Mapping

Higher Superintendents of Mapping

2

Approved

2

Element of restructuring plan for VO.

Appeal Officer

Appeal Officer

1

Approved

01-Sep-09

1

Internal competition — no backfilling of resulting vacancies — overall numbers not affected.

A minimum of 1 Asst Registrar (HEO) and 3 COs for Valuation Tribunal to deal with ongoing Tribunal Appeals arising from National Revaluation

1 Asst Registrar (HEO) and 3 COs

4

Approved

15-Apr-10

4

To ensure that the statutory deadlines for processing of appeals following the Revaluation process be met. Sanctioned on basis that an EO post be suppressed for 1 year, while an EO filled the HEO position on an acting up basis. 1 CO post to be filled on redeployment and the other 2 on temp contract for 11 mths each.

3 Student Valuers

3 Student Valuers @ CO level

3

Approved

17-Jun-10

3

On 1 year contracts on 1st pt of the CO scale, replacing students

To replace Service Officer retiring on age grounds

Service Officer

1

Approved

01-Oct-10

1

To be filled by redeployment, and that the overall number of Service Officers be reduced from 4 to 3 by end 2010

1 Managing Valuer (PO equiv)

1 Managing Valuer

1

Approved

05-Nov-10

1

To be filled internally with no backfilling i.e. suppress resulting AP equiv post

1 Cleaner and a promotion in situ of a Cleaner to Superintendent of Cleaners to replace upcoming retiree in latter grade

Cleaner & Superintendent of Cleaners

2

Part approved

17-Dec-10

1

To be filled through redeployment.

2 Temporary Appeals Officers

Appeal Officer

2

Approved

25-Feb-11

2

Business critical posts

2 Temporary Clerical Officers

Clerical Officer

2

Approved

14-Mar-11

2

Business critical posts

3 Student Valuers

Clerical Officer

3

Approved

13-Jun-11

3

Business critical posts

3 Temporary Clerical Officers

Clerical Officer

3

Approved

09-Aug-11

3

Business critical posts to be filled through redeployment

Extension of contracts for 2 Temporary Appeals Officers

Appeal Officer

2

Pending

C&AG

Vacancies at various Grades

4 PO, 4.7 AP, 14.5 HEO/EO, 1.7 CO (Total 24.9)

24.9

Approved

15-Mar-10

24.9

Extra responsibilities e.g. NAMA, new Accounting Standards, extra work on Revenue account

1 Director of Audit

Assistant Sec level

1

Approved

30-Apr-10

1

Scale of operations and complex issues involved.

Trainee Auditor to fill vacancies

Trainee Auditor

2

Approved

03-Aug-10

2

Temporary appointment to cover vacancy caused by secondment of a Detached National Expert to the EU, and relocation of other staff member.

Trainee Auditor

Trainee Auditor

1

Approved

28/04/2011

1

To replace Auditor recently deceased, during busiest period for auditing.

Clerical Officer

Clerical Officer

1

Approved

12-May-11

1

To backfill important CO position through redeployment.

Executive Officer

Executive Officer

1

Approved

08/09/2011

1

To backfill critical post in Finance Unit through redeployment

Trainee Auditor

Trainee Auditor

1

Approved

12/10/2011

1

Critical for Audit Certification Programme due to 2 retirements due shortly.

OPW

Upgrade

Architect

1

Refused

29/5/09

0

To fill vacancies

Service Officers

3

Approved

22/6/09

3

No viable alternatives to filling vacancy

Commissioner (Property Management Services)

Commissioner (Assistant Secretary)

1

Approved

26-Aug-09

1

To enable OPW to effectively deliver on the current demands for its services made by Government, other Departments and their agencies and the public.

Recruit 16 graduates at a reduced salary to replace those finishing the Graduate Architect Training Scheme.

Architect training programme

16

Approved

14/08/09

16

Participation in scheme for 5 years, — reduced salaries and fees

To fill vacancy in new section

Quantity Surveyor

1

Approved

08/12/09

1

NPPOU section in Trim

To fill possible vacancy in Director of the Botanic Gardens pending decision on 3 yr career break for incumbent to assume major positions in US

Acting up Director of Botanic Gardens

1

Approved

01-Apr-10

1

Provided that the previous post of the new Acting Director remain unfilled for the duration of the Director’s absence on career break

Filling of Management/Administration and Technical Posts

Various

142

Part Approved

24-Sep-10

28

Employee Assistance Officer and Payroll expert retentions. 26 posts approved for recruitment.

National Procurement Service (NPS)

Various

21

Approved

04-Aug-10

21

Staffing of NPS — 12 Buyers, 2 solicitors, 1 analyst & 6 Admin, 1 Admin officer

Appointment of Minister of State Staff

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers

4

Approved

various 10 March 2011 to 25 March 2011

4

Ministerial Appointments

Temporary district Inspector

Temporary district Inspector

1

Approved

13-May-11

1

3 month contract retention so as to allow continuation of maintenance work

Retention

Employee Assistance officer

1

Approved

02-Jun-11

1

Retntion for 3 months to allow business continuity

District inspector

1

Approved

02-Jun-11

1

Retention for 12 weeks to alloow business continuity

Grade 3 engineer

Grade 3 engineer

1

Approved

02-Jun-11

1

Vacancy filled by redeployment

Retention

District inspector/Works Managers

3

Approved

08-Aug-11

3

Retention to allow business continuity.

Retention

Employee Assistance officer

1

Approved

28-Sep-11

1

Retention until panel is in place.

Attorney General

Advisory Counsel Grade 111

Advisory Counsel Grade 111

1

Approved

18-Feb-10

1

Important legal post

Head of Administration

HEO

1

Approved

31-Dec-99

1

Principal post in charge of the office

Assistant Parliamentary Counsel Grade 11

Assistant Parliamentary Counsel Grade 11

3

Approved

3

Important legal posts

Advisory Counsel Grade 1 (Vacancy)

Assistant Secretary Level

1

Approved (acting-up basis for 3 yrs)

21-Sep-09

1

Business Critical Post

Advisory Counsel Grade 11

Advisory Counsel Grade 11

1

Approved

1

Important legal post because of the workload in the office

Dep Director

Deputy Secretary level

1

Approved

23-Feb-10

1

Business Critical Post (Internal TLAC type competition. Consequentials, if any, also sanctioned within ECF.)

Advisory Counsel Grade 111

Advisory Counsel Grade 111

1

Approved

1

Important legal post because of the workload in the office

Promotion AP to PO

PO

1

Approved

1

Promotion AP to PO

PO

1

Approved

1

Temp Asst Project Manager

Asst. Proj Manager

1

Approved

22-Oct-10

9 month contract not to exceed 15,000 @125.00 per day

Drafter

Contractor

2

Approved

03/12/2010

2

Max 6 months

Executive Officer

Executive Officer

1

Approved

28/01/2011

1

Business needs of office

Special Advisor

PO

1

Approved

29/03/2011

1

Ministerial Appointment

3 Legislative Drafters

Legislative Drafter

3

Refused

14/04/2011

0

2 Civilian Drivers

Civilian Driver

2

Approved

11/05/2011

2

Government Decision

CO

CO

1

Approved

15/04/2011

1

Long term sick leave case

Personal Assistant to AG

Personal Assistant

1

Approved

29/03/2011

1

Personal Staff Appointment

Personal Assistant to AG

Personal Assistant

1

Approved

29/03/2011

1

Personal Staff Appointment

Clerical Officer

Clerical Officer

1

Approved

15/09/2011

1

Admin needs of Office of Advisory Counsel

HEO

HEO

1

Refused

15/09/2011

0

Legislative Drafters

Contractor

2

Approved

18/10/2011

2

Contract for max of 12 months to cope with Govt Legislative Programme

Parliamentary Counsel

Parliamentary Counsel

2

Approved

18/10/2011

2

Permanent staff at this level required to cope with Govt Legislative Programme

Legislative Editors

Legislative Editors

2

Approved

18/10/2011

1

Permanent staff at this level required to cope with Govt Legislative Programme

Advisory Counsel

Advisory Counsel

1

Approved

18/10/2011

1

To deal with demand in legal advice into the future

Chief State Solicitor

Solicitor

Solicitor

1

Approved

23-Jun-10

1

Official appointed on completion of apprenticeship

Solicitor

Solicitor (temp.) NAMA

1

Approved

08-Jul-10

1

High Court NAMA case

Promotion Law Clerk to Legal Executive

Legal Executive

2

Approved

31-Aug-10

2

Trainee scheme

Temp State Solicitor

150 State Solicitor Manweeks

1

Approved

13-Apr-11

150 State Solicitor Manweeks

Mat. Leave cover etc business case.

Apprentice Solicitor and Trainee Law Clerk Schems

Solicitor and Legal Executive

2

Not approved.

13-Apr-11

0

Involves guaranteed promotion contra moratorium.

CO

CO

1

Approved

13-Apr-11

1

Business needs of office

CO

CO

1

Approved

17-Jun-11

1

Business needs of office

Staff Officer

SO

1

Approved

11-Aug-11

1

On redeployment, to replace the work co-ordinator in the

Chief State Solicitor

Chief State Solicitor

1

Approved

04-Oct-11

1

Business Critical Post

Central Statistics Office

Assistant Director General

Assistant Director General

1

Approved

22-Oct-09

1

Business Critical Post -approved on the basis any resultant internal vacancy is suppressed

Assistant Director General for Macroeconomic and Environment Divisions

Assistant Director General

1

Approved

Agreed by Minister 14 April 2010

1

Business Critical Post

Senior Statistician

Senior Statistician

1

Approved

30-Apr-10

1

Business case

EO

EO

2

Approved

23-Jun-10

2

To assist BIM decent.

QNHS/EU-SILC Survey

Interviewer

8

Approved

27-May-11

8

Business case

Defence

Night watchman

Night Watchman

1

Approved

1

To provide security at the Galway premises

Director of Military Prosecutions

Director of Military Prosecutions

1

Approved

1

Statutory post

Assistant Principal/Senior Systems Analyst

Assistant Principal/Senior Systems Analyst

1

Approved

1

Sanctioned in Galway as a result of the suppression of a PO and the transfer of his duties to Dublin

Head Services Officer

Head Services Officer

1

Approved

1

Needed for the decentralisation of premises to Newbridge

Services Officer

Services Officer

1

Approved

1

Director

Director

1

Approved

1

Principal Officer

Principal Officer

1

Approved

1

Special Adviser

Special Adviser

1

Approved

09-Apr-10

1

Ministerial staff

Special Adviser

Special Adviser

1

Approved

16-Apr-10

1

Ministerial staff

Personal Assistant

Personal Assistant

1

Approved

09-Apr-10

1

Ministerial staff

Personal Secretary

Personal Secretary

1

Approved

09-Apr-10

1

Ministerial staff

Principal Officer

Principal Officer

1

Approved

05-Aug-10

1

PO vacancy arising from appointment of Director

Principal Officer

Principal Officer

1

Approved

05-Aug-10

1

Retirement of PO in Galway

Assistant Principal

Assistant Principal

2

Approved

05-Aug-10

2

Arising from filling of PO posts

Prof. Accountant Grade I (Temporary)

Prof. Accountant Grade I

1

Approved

24-Mar-11

1

Business critical case

Contract Archivists

Temporary archivist

6

Approved

10-May-11

6

Work on 2016 project

Allowance

1 EO, 1 HEO

2

Approved

27-May-11

2

Allowances approved for temporary upgrades at a cost of €5,000 to allow cost effective delivery of a project valued at €1m

DPP

To fill retirement vacancy

Head of Directing Division (between Asst Sec and Dep Sec)

1

Approved

05-Jun-09

1

Business Critical Post

Chief Prosecution Solicitor

Chief Prosecution Solicitor (between Asst Sec and Dep Sec)

1

Approved

02-Nov-09

1

Business Critical Post

Internal Promotion to Deputy Chief Prosecution Solicitor

Deputy Chief Prosecution Solicitor

1

Approved

23-Apr-10

1

Business Critical Post

Internal Promotion to PO

PO (higher)

1

Approved

23-Apr-10

1

Business Critical Post

Legal Researcher (temp.)

Legal Researcher (temp.)

1

Approved

23-Apr-10

Business Critical Post

Head of Admin (allowance)

Head of Admin (allowance)

1

Approved

23-Apr-10

1

Business Critical Post

Legal Researcher (temp.)

Legal Researcher (temp.)

1

Approved

13-Apr-11

1

Business critical case

Director of Public Prosecutions

1

Approved

Sep-11

1

Statutory post

Foreign Affairs

10 Third Secretaries

Third Secretaries

10

Approved

25-Jan-10

10

From the 2008 competition to provide for succession planning

Assistant Secretary

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

19-Feb-10

1

Business Critical Post

Counsellor and First Secretary

Counsellor and First Secretary

2

Approved

2

Business Critical Post

Chairmanship of OSCE — temporary hiring of staff

3 Assistant Secretaries, 2 PO, 1 AP, 1 Third Sec, 2 Eos and 3 Clerical Officers

12

Under consideration — approved — 1 A/Sec, 2 A/Sec for 20 weeks, 2 PO, 1 AP, 4 Third Sec/EO/CO/local expert

30-11-2010 and 28-01-10

10

Business Critical posts essential to chairmanship of OSCE which has been approved by government

staff in audit and control area of ODA

AP level dealing with audit, control and monitoring functions of ODA

10

Approved

10

Arises from FGS Irish Aid Management Review

Special adviser to Minister

Special Adviser

1

Under consideration — approved

28-Sep-10

Secondment from HEA, returned to HEA when Minister Martin resigned, January 2011

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers, special advisers

14

Approved

Various 29 March 2011 to 15 June 2011

14

Ministerial Appointments

Services Officer and Services Attendant

Services Officer and Services Attendant

2

Approved

22/03/2010

2

Business Critical Posts

Special Adviser to MoS Creighton and replacement PA

Special Adviser, PA

2

Under consideration

Ministerial Appointments

State Laboratory

4 Student Analysts

Students

4

Approved

03-Aug-10

4

Temporary 7 month appointments

Taoiseach

Assistant Principal

Assistant Principal

1

Approved

1

Head of the IT Unit to be filled from redeployment

Administrative Officers

Administrative Officers

3

Approved

3

For succession planning

Special Adviser to Minister of State Curran, Chief Whip

Special Adviser

1

Approved

30-Apr-10

1

Transfer of staff to Minister from previous Dept

Staff for Minister of State/Chief Personal Staff

PA & 2 x Worksharing Sec Assistants

2

Approved

06-May-10

2

Transfer of staff to Minister from previous Dept

Special Advisor to Taoiseach

Special Adviser

1

Approved

15/06/2010

1

Transfer from DFA

Promotion HEO to AP

AP

1

Approved

15/06/2010

1

Business Case

Promotion AP to PO

PO

1

Approved

15/06/2010

1

Business Case

Deputy Government Press Secretary

Principal Officer (Higher)

1

Approved

04/02/2011

1

Transfer of staff at Request of Taoiseach

Personal Assistant to Taoiseach

AP

1

Approved

04/02/2011

1

Transfer of staff at Request of Taoiseach

Special Advisers

PO Std Scale

2

Approved

04/05/2011

2

Ministerial Appt

Special Advisers

Dep Secretary

2

Approved

04/05/2011

2

Ministerial Appt

Personal Assistant to Taoiseach

AP

1

Approved

04/05/2011

1

Business Case

Personal Assistant to Taoiseach

AP

1

Approved

04/05/2011

1

Business Case

Personal Assistant to Taoiseach

AP

1

Approved

04/05/2011

1

Business Case

Personal Assistant to Taoiseach

AP

1

Approved

04/05/2011

1

Business Case

Personal Secretary to Taoiseach

EO

1

Approved

04/05/2011

1

Business Case

Civilian Drivers for Chief Whip

Civilian Driver

2

Approved

27-May-11

2

Ministerial Appts

Civilian Driver for Leader of Seanad

Civilian Driver

1

Approved

23/06/2011

1

Necessary to fill post

Govt Press Secretary

Asst Sec Equiv

1

Approved

10/06/2011

1

Up to 1 Sept 2011 maximum for smooth changeover

Personal Assistant to Govt Chief Whip

Personal Assistant

1

Approved

05/07/2011

1

Business Critical

Civilian Driver to Leader of Seanad

Civilian Driver to Leader of Seanad

1

Approved

14/09/2011

1

Business case

Asst Secretary to replace Martin Fraser SG

Asst Secretary

1

Approved

15/09/2011

1

Business critical

Govt Press Secretary

Govt Press Sec -Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

06/10/2011

1

Business Critical

Dep Gov Press Secretary

Dep Govt Press Sec — Principal Officer (Higher)

1

Approved

06/10/2011

1

Business Critical

Asst Gov Press Secretary

Asst Govt Press Sec -Principal Officer (Std Scale))

1

Approved

06/10/2011

1

Business Critical

Special Adviser to Govt Chief Whip

Special Advisor to Chief Whip — Principal Officer (Std Scale)

1

Approved

06/10/2011

1

Business Critical

Executive Officer

Executive Officer

2

Approved

07/11/2011

2

Recruitment necessary due to level of experience required for maintenance and updating of the Govt News Website.

Assistant Secretary responsible for EU Affairs

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

17/10/2011

1

Business critical management post.

Transport

Coastal Sector Unit Managers

Coastal Sector Unit Managers

3

Approved

3

Needed for health and safety reasons

Operations and Training Officer in the coastal service

Operations and Training Officer in the coastal service

1

Approved

1

Needed for health and safety reasons

Assistant Secretary Vacancy from retirement (Public Transport)

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

22-Oct-09

1

Key management level post

A/Sec vacancy

Assistant Secretary

1

Refused

Principal Officer

Principal Officer

2

Refused

To be filled from internal competition.

Acting Up

Principal Officer

1

Approved

28-Feb-10

1

Pressures in connection with the setting up of the National Transport Authority

Personal Staff for Minister for State Ciarán Cuffe T.D

1 x PA & 1 x Personal Sec

2

Approved

21-Apr-10

2

Special Advisor for MoS Cuffe

Principal Officer

1

Approved

01-Jun-10

1

Political appointment

Chief Maritime Accident Investigator

Principal Officer

1

Approved (originally approved Nov 09). Transport sought amendment to condition of sanction but original sanction stands.

18-Aug-10

1

Critical post in new National Transport Investigation Unit

Filling of existing and forthcoming vacancies in the Irish Coast Guard.

Various from EO to PO

31

5 approved with redeployment condition: Manager Volunteer Services (AP1), Divisional Controller (AP), Shift Watch Keeping Officer (EOx3)

19-Aug-10

5

Critical posts in the Irish Coast Guard

Filling of vacancies in the Marine Survey Office

various up to PO

11

2 approved with redeployment condition: Deputy Divisional Controller (AP), Surveyor in Charge (PO).

19-Aug-10

2

Critical posts in the Marine Survey Office

Filling of PO post which had been deferred since Feb 2010

PO

1

Under consideration

Post has been deferred since Feb 2010- from Internal Panel

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers, special advisers

14

Approved

various 10 March 2011 to 26 April 2011

14

Ministerial Appointments

Health

DG of OMCYA

Deputy Secretary

1

Approved

23-Dec-09

1

Head of Office of Min for Children etc

CEO Designate of Adoption Authority

Assistant Secretary level

1

Approved

01-Sep-10

1

Head of Adoption Authority as required under Adoption Act 2010

Assessor of Youth Work

AP

1

Approved

30-Aug-10

1

Statutory Post

Regularization of Contract for Services

Health Promotion Policy Advisor (AP Equivalent)

1

Approved

04/05/2011

1

Temp Cover for Sick Leave

Personal Secretary

0.4

Approved

02/06/2011

0.4

Assistant Secretary

1

Granted

29/07/2011

1

PO 1

2

Granted

23/08/2011

2

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary — Minister Reilly

1

granted

10/03/2011

1

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Assistant— Minister Reilly

1

granted

10/03/2011

1

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Civilian Driver— Minister Reilly

1

granted

01/05/2011

1

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Civilian Driver— Minister Reilly

1

granted

01//05/2011

1

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Press Adviser— Minister Reilly

1

granted

31/05/2011

1

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Special Advisor— Minister Reilly

1

granted

10/03/2011

1

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary — Minister Shortall

1

Granted

10/03/2011

1

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Assistant — Minister Shortall

1

Granted

10/03/2011

1

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Special Advisor — Minister Shortall

0.5

Granted

Sep-11

0.5

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Assistant -Minister Lynch

1

Granted

10/03/2011

1

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary -Minister Lynch

1

granted

10/03/2011

1

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Civilian Driver — Minister Lynch

1

Granted

11/04/2011

1

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Civilian Driver — Minister Lynch

1

Granted

30/05/2011

1

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Temp CO — Minister Lynch

1

Secondment from Cork County Council

27/06/2011

1

Special Delivery Unit — National Strategic Lead Bed Management

Director of Nursing (CUH)

1

Granted

18/10/2011

1

Special Delivery Unit — National Strategic Lead Discharge Planning

Bed Manager (CUH)

1

Granted

18/10/2011

1

Children & Youth Affairs

Senior specialist with experience in the area of child welfare and protection services

PO Equivalent

1

Approved

01-May-11

1

Required in response to recommendations in the Ryan Report into institutional child abuse. Secondment from D/Health & Children

Secretary General appointment

Secretary General

1

Approved

01-Jul-11

1

Required for new Department

Assistant Secretary appointment

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

01-Oct-11

1

Required for new Department — agreed in March

Tourism, Culture & Sport

Filling of two posts in Minister’s Constituency Office by transfers from other Departments

Executive Officer

2

Approved

20-May-10

2

Posts vital to the functioning of the Constituency Office

Minister Hannifin’s Special Advisor

Principal Officer

1

Approved

27-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister Hannifin’s Press Advisor

Higher Executive Officer

1

Approved

27-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Minister Hannifin’s Personal Assistant

Higher Executive Officer

1

Approved

27-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Renewal of contract for Director in Culture Ireland

Assistant Principal

1

Approved

1

Critical function of the Dept. Government priority. Equivalent post to be suppressed.

Minister Hannifin’s Personal Secretary

Executive Officer

1

Approved

27-Apr-10

1

Political Appointment

Filling of PO vacancy

Principal Officer

1

Under consideration

Post is in CSD, which covers a wide area , and Dept already carrying other PO post which has not been filled

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers special advisers

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers special advisers

4

Approved

21/03/2011

4

National Archives

Filling of vacancies to avoid the closure of the reading room

CO, EO and Service Officers

6

Part approved to fill 3 posts (1 CO and 2 Service Officers) by redeployment. Service Officers not available via redeployment so sanction given to recruit.

June/July/Aug 2010

3

Business critical, frontline posts.

Ombudsman

Senior Investigator

Principal Officer

1

Approved

30-Apr-10

1

Business critical management post.

State Laboratory

4 Student Analysts

Students

4

Approved

03-Aug-10

4

Temporary 7 month appointments

CENR

Assistant Secretary

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

26-May-10

1

TLAC competition

Temporary EO for 6 months

EO

1

Refused

To suppress 2 CO posts and replace with 2 EO posts

EO

2

Approved

01-Jun-10

2

Business needs of Department

AO vacancy filled

AO

1

Approved

01-Jun-10

1

Business needs of Department

Appointment of Ministerial Staff

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers, special advisers

6

Approved

31-Mar-11

6

Ministerial Appointments

Assistant Secretary

Assistant Secretary

1

Approved

26-May-10

1

TLAC competition

EO

EO

1

Refused

EO

EO

2

Approved

01-Jun-10

2

Business needs of Department

AO

AO

1

Approved

01-Jun-10

1

Business needs of Department

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers, special advisers

Personal Secretary, Assistant, Civilian drivers, special advisers

6

Approved

31-Mar-11

6

Ministerial Appointments

EO

EO

1

Approved

25-May-11

1

To facilitate a commitment to allow a staff member to decentralise. Consequential CO post suppressed.

Economist

AP/PO

2

Approved

07-Jul-11

2

Business needs of Department

National Gallery

Renewal of temporary contracts

Security Attendant

15

Under consideration

Appointment of contractors to permanent posts

Security Attendant

7

Under consideration

Regularise position of Head of Conservation

Engineer Grade II (AK I)

1

Under consideration

To appoint staff on a fixed term basis for Master Development Plan

Head of Art Handling (HEO), MDP Project Manager (HEO), Paper Conservator (AKII), Painting Conservator (AKII), Art Handlers (x3)

7

Under consideration

Filling of permanent positions

Head of Exhibitions (AK I), Senior Curator (AK I), HEO, EO, Website Administrator (AK II), IT Officer (CO)

6

Under consideration

Filling of post of Director

Director

1

Approved

10-Jan-11

1

Statutory Post

Public Expenditure & Reform

Secretary General

Sec-Gen

1

Approved

26/04/2011

1

Govt Appointment

Special Adviser

Principal Standard

1

Approved

03/05/2011

1

Critical to operation of Minister’s Office

Special Adviser

Special Adviser

1

Approved

18/05/2011

1

Critical to operation of Minister’s Office

Personal Assistant

Personal Assistant

1

Approved

03/05/2011

1

Critical to operation of Minister’s Office

Personal Secretary (Constituency Secretary)

Personal Secretary

1

Approved

02/05/2011

1

Critical to operation of Minister’s Office

Manager of the CS Employee Assistance Servive

Asst Principal Higher

1

Approved

07/07/2011

1

Business Critical for management of centralised EAS

Executive Officer

EO

1

Approved

01/09/2011

1

Critical to administration of the Employee Assistance Service (EAS) for all of the Civil Service.

Quantity Surveyor

Architect

1

Approved

05/09/2011

1

Critical for Procurement Policy re Construction etc

HR Manager

Principal Higher

1

Approved

12/09/2011

1

Critical for Mgmt of HR

Programme Director

Assistant Secretary (modified scale)

1

Approved

18/10/2011

1

Business needs of Department (Reform and Delivery)

PO ICT

PO Higher ICT

1

Approved

18-Oct-11

1

ICT needs of Department (CMOD)

Project Manager HR Shared Services

PO Higher

1

Approved

18-Oct-11

1

Business critical

Shared Services Transformation Manager

PO Higher

1

Approved

01-Nov-11

1

Essential for management of Reform and Delivery in the Public Service.

2538.8

Total

1,792

1The Deputy may wish to note that an Independent Review Panel of the Department of Finance, comprising 3 Members, has also been established, chaired by Mr. Rob Wright. A Chairperson has also been appointed to the Implementation group on the Croke Park Agreement.

Temporary Posts for CENSUS of Population 2011 [CENTRAL STATISTICS OFFICE]

Dept / Office Title

Exception Sought¹

Grade

No. of Exceptions Sought Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Decision

Sanction Date

Exceptions Granted Promotion/ Recruitment Redeployment

Basis of Sanction

Central Statistics Office

Staff for the Household Budget Survey i.e. interviewers etc

Staff for the Household Budget Survey i.e. interviewers etc

Approved

85

These staff required for the Household Budget, Business Register and Annual Services Inquiry — 85 Temporary Contracts during 2009 & 2010

ICT Executive Officer

ICT Executive Officer

Approved

2

Required for preparatory work on the Census of Population 2011

Executive Officer

Executive Officer

Approved

4

Required for 18 months to work on the Census. Will be re-assigned to another department on completion of that work

Clerical Officer

Clerical Officer

Approved

24

The CSO was asked to seek staff from other departments for a period of 10 months for Census of Agriculture work. In the event, staff were not available so sanction was later granted to appoint COs on temporary contract

Statistician

Statistician

Approved

1

To work full time on an OECD ‘Programme for International Assessment of Adult Competencies’

Executive Officer

Executive Officer

Approved

2

Also required for this programme

Grades from Clerical Officer to Assistant Principal

Grades from Clerical Officer to Assistant Principal

Approved

158

These are internal CSO staff required from early 2010 to end 2011 to prepare for and finalise the Census 2011

Census Liaison Officers, Regional Supervisors, Field Supervisors and Clerical Officers

Census Liaison Officers, Regional Supervisors, Field Supervisors and Clerical Officers

Under Consideration

Temporary part-time enumerators

Temporary part-time enumerators

Under Consideration

Total posts approved for CSO (temps):

276

Table 2 — Requests for Exceptions in the Public Service Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation /Jobs Enterprise & Innovation

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

DETE- Enterprise Ireland

Retirement

Manager

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

May-09

Retirement

2

DETE- Enterprise Ireland

Graduate

Graduate

16

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

16

May-09

16 graduate posts

3

DETERoscommon CEB

Vacancy

CEO

1

No

0

May-09

Vacancy

4

DETE Cork CEB

Replacing maternity leave

Administrative Officer

1

No

0

Jun-09

Replacing maternity leave

5

DETE — FAS DG

Statutory post

DG

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Jun-09

Statutory post

6

DETE -NCA Registrar

No vacancy

AP-HAD

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Jun-09

Registrar

7

DETE — Enterprise Ireland

Rollover of contract posts for overseas (4 sanctioned)

Various

53

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

4

Jun-09

Rollover of contract posts for overseas (4 sanctioned)

8

DETE -PIAB

Renewal of contract posts (5 sanctioned)

CO

6

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

5

Jul-09

Renewal of contract posts (5 sanctioned)

9

DETE -NCA student

Student

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Jun-09

Student

10

DETE — NCA

Retirement — Head of Corporate Services (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

AP — STANDARD

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Aug-09

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

11

DETE — NCA

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

AP — STANDARD

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Aug-09

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

12

DETE — NCA

Retirement — Commercial Practises Division (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

HEO (x5)

5

Yes — on a permanent basis

5

Aug-09

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

13

DETE — NCA

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

EO (X3)

3

Yes — on a permanent basis

3

Aug-09

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

14

DETE — NCA

CO (X2)

2

Yes — on a permanent basis

2

Aug-09

15

DETE — IAASA

Vacancy

Accountant

1

No

0

Aug-09

Vacancy

16

DETE — FAS

Decision of Rights Commissioner

Training Instructor

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Sep-09

Decision of rights Commissioner

17

DETE — Interreg — Tradelinks 2 project

new project

Project Manager

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Sep-09

new project

18

DETE — Interreg — Tradelinks 2 project

new project

Financial Administrator

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Sep-09

new project

19

DETE — Interreg — Tradelinks 2 project

new project

4 Regional Coordinators

4

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

4

Sep-09

new project

20

DETE — Interreg — Tradelinks 2 project

new project

4 Support Co-ordinators

4

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

4

Sep-09

new project

21

DETE — Competition Authority

Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement in the Public Service

Case Officer

1

No

0

Oct-09

Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement in the Public Service

22

DETE — FÁS

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

ADG — Finance & IT

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Oct-09

Retirement (other than the Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement)

23

DETE — Forfas

New project — Self Financing — Manager of European Space Research Office

Manager

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Dec-09

New project — Self Financing

24

DETE — PIAB

Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement in the Public Service

Legal Services Manager

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Jan-10

Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement in the Public Service

25

DETE- Enterprise Ireland

Temporary Overseas Contract posts

Contract Posts (Overseas Jan-Mar 10) — Various Grades

2

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

2

Feb-10

Temporary Overseas Contract posts

26

DETE — Enterprise Ireland

Support for Credit Review

CO

1

Yes — on a permanent basis

1

Mar-10

Support for Credit Review

27

DETE — Competition Authority

Request under consideration

Board Members 2

2

Request under consideration

0

Mar-10

Request under consideration

28

DETE — Competition Authority

Statutory post

Chairperson of Board

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Mar-10

Statutory post

29

DETE — SFI

City of Science Project

Project Manager

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Mar-10

City of Science Project

30

DETE — SFI

City of Science Project

CO

1

No

0

May-10

PA for Dublin City of Science

31

DETE — FAS

Request under consideration

4

Request under consideration

0

Mar-10

Request under consideration

32

DETE — NSAI

Ongoing contracts

Various

4

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

4

Apr-10

Ongoing contracts

33

DETE — NCA

3 Student posts

3

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

3

May-10

34

DETI — Forfas

Request under consideration

PO

1

Request under consideration

0

Request under consideration

35

DETI — Competition Authority

internship

CO

2

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

2

Jun-10

Request under consideration

36

DETI — Competition Authority

Board Members 2

2

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

2

Jun-10

37

DETI _ IAASA

Various

3

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

3

Sep-10

38

DETI — CEB

CEO

CEO

1

Request under consideration

Request under consideration

39

DETI — IDA

Various

10

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

10

SEP -10

40

DETI — Competition Authority

Chair/CEO Designate

1

Request under consideration

1

Jul — 10

41

DETI — NSAI

Certification Officer

1

Request under consideration

Request under consideration

42

DETI — Enterprise Ireland

Various

12

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

12

Oct — 10

43

DETI — Forfás

Various

5

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

2

Dec 2010

44

DETI — SFI

Researchers

3

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

3

Dec — 10

45

DETI — SFI

DG

1

Yes — on a temporary/acting basis

1

Dec — 10

46

DETI — Inward Investment North/South

Research Officer

1

Request under consideration

Request under consideration

47

DETI — NSAI

Various

2

Request under consideration

Request under consideration

48

DETI — Forfás

1 AP 1 EO

2

Request under consideration

Request under consideration

49

DETI — PIAB

Various

11

Yes — Redeployment

From redeployment from within the DETI Vote

50

DETI -Forfás

2 AP

2

Request under consideration

Request under consideration

51

DETI — Forfás

Chief Financial Officer

1

Yes

1

Jul 2011

52

DETI — IAASA

Statutory post

CEO

1

Request under consideration

Request under consideration

53

DJEI — EI

Various

3

Request under consideration

Request under consideration

54

DJEI — SFI

Research Officers

7

Request under consideration

Request under consideration

55

DJEI — IDA

Various

8

Request under consideration

Request under consideration

56

DJEI — EI

Various

5

Request under consideration

Request under consideration

Department of Social Protection

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

Family Support Agency

To cover Term-time vacancies in front line mediation service — Portlaoise + Sligo

1

Yes

1

2

Family Support Agency

To cover Term-time vacancies in front line mediation service — Raheny + Wexford

0.8

Yes

0.8

3

Family Support Agency

Temporary appointment due to end June 2009 — Castlebar FMS office

0.5

Yes

0.5

4

Family Support Agency

Temporary appointment due to end June 2009 — Letterkenny office

0.4

Yes

0.4

5

Family Support Agency

Supervision + Management of Mediation Service in Southern and Westerns Regions — temporary appointment due to end June 09

1.6

Yes

1.6

6

Family Support Agency

Supervision + Management of Mediation Service in Southern and Westerns Regions — temporary appointment due to end January 10

1.6

Yes

1.6

7

Family Support Agency

To cover Shorter Working Year Scheme vacancies in front line mediation service — Letterkenny, Portlaoise, Sligo, Raheny, Athlone, Wexford & HQ

4.5

Yes

4.5

8

Family Support Agency

Temporary appointment due to end June 2010 — Castlebar FMS office

0.5

Yes

0.5

9

Family Support Agency

Temporary appointment due to end June 2010 — Letterkenny office

0.4

Yes

0.4

10

Citizens Information Board

Temporary ICT contracts due to end March 2010 — Dublin HQ

2

Yes

2

11

Pensions Board

Staff required due to developments in the pensions arena

1 PO4 APs4 HEOs3 EOs

12

Sanction was given for the transfer of 6 posts from the Department of Social Protection’s ECF by end-2012; Sanction was given for 6 posts to be recruited on fixed-term contracts for a period of no more than 3 years.

12 (6 posts to be trans-ferred from DSP and 6 posts to be re-cruited extern-ally on a three year fixed-term con-tract)

11 March 2011

12

Citizens Information Board

ICT manager post to cover maternity leave and Regional Manager post to be filed internally

Grade 7 (HEO) post and Regional Manager

2

Approved Grade 7 post to end November 2011 and Regional Manager post to be filled internally

2

2 March 2011

13

Citizens Information Board

This was to fill the position made vacant by the resignation of an administrator who was acting up into an ICT project management role until 31 March 2011;

Grade 4 ICT Administrator Post

1

1

31 March 2011

14

Pensions Board

The current contract for the CEO of the Pensions Board will expire on 30 November 2011

CEO

1

Sanction was given for the re-appointment of Mr Brendan Kennedy as CEO of the Pensions Board for a further 5 years from 30 November 2011.

1

15 September 2011

Department of Defence

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

Defence Forces

To retain the capacity of the organisation to operate effectively across all roles while contributing to the necessary public service economies

Cadets and army/naval service recruits. Promotion across a range of ranks. Acting up appointments for overseas deployment.

529

Yes

207

July 2009 and November 2009

Recruitment of 42 cadets and promotions across a range of ranks. 100 acting up appointments.

2

Defence Forces

Retirement of Military Judge which is a statutory post

Colonel

1

Yes

1

April 2010

Statutory post

3

Defence Forces

Retirement of Director of Military Prosecutions which is a statutory post

Colonel

1

Yes

1

June 2009

Statutory post

4

Defence Forces

Civilian employees. Temporary post and extension of contract.

Pharmacist

2

Yes

2

July 2009

5

Defence Forces

Civilian employee contract extension.

Social Worker

1

Yes

1

July 2009

6

Defence Forces

Civilian Employee. Management of provision of electrical services.

Foreman

1

Yes

1

7

Defence Forces

Civilian employee to assist in the re-fit of Naval ships.

Welder

1

Yes

1

April 2010

8

Defence Forces

Filling of GOC Air Corps

Brigadier General

1

See note below

9

Defence Forces

Filling of DCOS (Operations) vacancy which is a statutory post

Major General

1

Yes

1

July 2010

Statutory post

10

Defence Forces

Civilian employee. Management of provision of social worker service for the Defence Forces.

Principal Social Worker

1

Yes

1

September 2010

Note: Sanction for GOC Air Corps was approved in the context of agreement between the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and the Department of Defence on the ECF and the approved number of Brigadier Generals set out therein. In addition, ongoing targeted recruitment to and promotion within the Defence Forces has continued in the context of the undertakings agreed under the ECF, the Croke Park Agreement and between the Ministers for Defence and PER, subject to Defence remaining within agreed Vote allocations.

Department of Tourism, Culture & Sport / Arts Heritage and Gaeltacht

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

National Library of Ireland

To fill Director post

Director

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

18/12/09

Statutory position

2

National Library of Ireland

2 vacancies due to retirement and internal promotion

Keeper, Asst Keeper

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

22/9/09

Due to the specialised nature of the work of the Library

3

Irish Sports Council

To fill Director post

CEO

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

14/5/09

Statutory position

4

Arts Council

To fill Director post

Director

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

20/8/09

Statutory position

5

Failte Ireland

temporary posts

Principal Officer (temporary)

1

4. Application was refused

0

6

Failte Ireland

temporary posts

Principal Officer (temporary)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

13/1/10

Payment of acting up allowance paid temporarily due to maternity leave

7

Failte Ireland

E Business manager

Assistant Principal

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

13/1/10

Post filled as a necessity for the development of the Tourism Sector

8

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

IT Manager

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

19/11/09

Key post for the successful running of the National Concert Hall

9

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Financial Accountant

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

19/11/09

Key post for the successful running of the National Concert Hall

10

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Learn & Explore Administrative Assistant

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

19/11/09

Key post for the successful running of the National Concert Hall

11

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Graphic Designer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

19/11/09

Key post for the successful running of the National Concert Hall

12

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

On line Marketing Executive

1

4. Application was refused

0

13

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Lighting Technician/stage hand

1

4. Application was refused

0

14

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Box Office Cashier Supervisor

1

4. Application was refused

0

15

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Operations Assistant Manager

1

4. Application was refused

0

16

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Own Promotions Executive

1

4. Application was refused

0

17

National Concert Hall

Fixed term contract post

Director of NCH

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

14/12/2010

Statutory Post

18

Chester Beatty Library

To fill Director post

PO 1

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

29/3/10

Key post

19

Irish Film Board

To fill Chief Executive Post

CEO

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

1/9/2010

Statutory position

20

Irish Museum of Modern Art

To fill post of Director

Director

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/4/2011

Statutory Post

21

Udaras na Gaeltachta

To fill post of CEO

CEO

1

Fáilte Ireland also requested 80 seasonal Tourist Information Officers (clerical) to staff its Information Offices for the tourist season. Sanction granted on 20th of April. Shannon Development was also granted 12 Tourist Information Officers on the same basis. Such sanctions are given on the understanding that the pay can be met from within existing budgetary resources

Department of Health

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

HSE

Front line post

Senior Locum

0.6

3. No decision to date

0

Further info awaited

2

Galway University Hospital

Critical management post

General Manager

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

17/06/2009

3

HIQA

Level of expenditure on external advice

Legal Advisor (AP1)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

31/07/2009

4

HIQA

Operational reasons

Regional Operations Manager (PO)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

31/07/2009

5

HIQA

Value for money

Health Technology Assessment — AP1

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

31/07/2009

6

HIQA

Value for Money

HTA — Engineer Grade I

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

31/07/2009

7

HIQA

Value for Money

HTA — Engineer Grade III

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

31/07/2009

8

HSE

New HSE structure

Regional Operation Director (Assist Nat,. Dir)

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

07/07/2009

9

HSE

New HSE structure

Care Group (Assistant National Director)

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

07/07/2009

10

Mental Health Commission

Front line post

Consultant Psychiatrist

5

1. Yes, application was approved

5

31/07/2009

11

Mental Health Commission

Front line post

Assistant Inspector (Occupational Therapist)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

31/07/2009

12

Mental Health Commission

Service reasons

Staff Officer (Temp Contract Renewal)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

31/07/2009

13

National Treatment Purchase Fund

Fair Deal requirements

EO / HEO

6

1. Yes, application was approved

6

31/07/2009

14

Central Mental Hospital

Front line post

Mental Health Nurses

23

1. Yes, application was approved

23

31/08/2009

15

St Loman’s Hospital

Front line post

Mental Health Nurses

36

1. Yes, application was approved

36

31/08/2009

16

Temple Street Hospital

Critical nursing management post

Director of Nursing

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

20/10/2009

17

Galway University Hospital

Key post for flu pandemic

Chief Medical Scientist

1

3. No decision to date

0

Further info awaited

18

HSE

Front line post

General Dental Surgeon

3

1. Yes, application was approved

2

25/11/2009

Sanction was only given for two of the three posts

19

HSE

Front line post

Principal Environmental Health Officers

2

3. No decision to date

0

Further info awaited

20

HSE

Front line post

Fire Prevention Officer

1

3. No decision to date

0

Further info awaited

21

HSE

Front line post

Clinical Perfusionist Post

1

3. No decision to date

0

Further info awaited

22

Children’s Hospital, Crumlin

Front line post

Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) Nurses

5

1. Yes, application was approved

5

8/12/1009

The filling of these posts was to be met through redeployment first, and where this was not possible, suppression

23

Temple Street Hospital

Front line post

Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) Nurses

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

8/12/1009

The filling of these posts was to be met through redeployment first, and where this was not possible, suppression

24

HSE

Development post for Primary Care Teams

Senior Dietician (Sligo/Leitrim/Cavan)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

18/01/2010

25

HSE — St. James, Dublin

Critical maintenance post

Maintenance Manager

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

18/01/2010

26

HSE — St. Lukes Kilkenny

Front line post

Clinical Nurse Manager II

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

18/01/2010

27

An Bord Altranais

Front line post

Director of Operations

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

01/07/2010

28

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland

Front line post

Pharmacist Chief II

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

01/07/2010

29

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland

Front line post

Senior Pharmacist

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

01/07/2010

30

Food Safety Authority of Ireland

Critical to meeting statutory obligations / essential health & public safety requirements

Auditor — AP level

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

01/07/2010

31

Health and Social Care professions Council

Critical to meeting statutory obligations / essential health & public safety requirements

HEO

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

01/07/2010

32

Health and Social Care professions Council

Critical to meeting statutory obligations / essential health & public safety requirements

EO

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

01/07/2010

33

Mental Health Commission

Critical to meeting statutory obligations / essential health & public safety requirements

CO (temporary contract renewal)

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

01/07/2010

34

National Cancer Registry Board

Critical to meeting statutory obligations / essential health & public safety requirements

Statistician (Grade V)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

01/07/2010

Note: Includes HSEand Health NCSAs exceptions sought between May 2009 and end December 2010. Under the 2011-2014 ECF within overall numbers reduction targets the HSE is responsible for filling of specified exempted posts and exceptions to the moratorium while the Department of Health is responsible for approving exceptions for health NCSAs. There must be suppression of a post or posts of an equivalent value in non-priority areas for each new exempted post or post filled on an exceptional basis. Subsequent data for the HSE will be forwarded directly to the Deputy.

Department of Children and Youth Affairs

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

NEWB

EWO — Helpline Services

EWO — Helpline Services

Refused

NEWB

HEO — Office Manager

HEO — Office Manager

Refused

NEWB

AP — Regional Manager (West North West)

AP — Regional Manager (West North West)

Refused

NEWB

AP — Regional Manager (Dublin City)

AP — Regional Manager (Dublin City)

Refused

NEWB

CEO

CEO

Accepted

NEWB

Interim CEO — Director Level

Interim CEO — Director Level

Accepted

NEWB

PO — Director of Educational Welfare Services (Temporary Filling)

PO — Director of Educational Welfare Services (Temporary Filling)

Accepted — but possible backfilling refused

Interim Director Post not filled due to backfilling being refused

NEWB

Director Level — PO — Director of Integration

Director Level — PO — Director of Integration

Refused

Replacement of posts under National Co-ordinator SCP and HSCL

NEWB

1 x Executive Officer, 1 x Research and Development Manager

1 x Executive Officer, 1 x Research and Development Manager

Accepted

Staff transferred from Curriculum Development Unit

NEWB

EWO — Fixed Term Contract Renewal

EWO — Fixed Term Contract Renewal

Accepted

NEWB

Clerical Officer — Fixed Term Contract Renewal

Clerical Officer — Fixed Term Contract Renewal

Refused

NEWB

EWO — Dublin City

EWO — Dublin City

Under Consideration

Re-deployment of staff member of Department of Justice

NEWB

AP — Communications Manager

AP — Communications Manager

Under Consideration

Family Support Agency (FSA)

replacement

C.O.

0.5

Granted

0.5

23/06/2011

No other clerical support available for Professional Mediator

FSA

Clerical Support for Dolphin House project

C.O.

1

Granted

1

11/07/2011 ( to end-March 2012 only)

Substantial savings accrued from the project

FSA

Cover for Maternity Leave

C.O.

1

Granted

1

09/07/2011 (for 6-9 months only)

Central payments and clerical support office support required

National Education Welfare Board

Contract renewal

EducationWelfare Officer (EWO)

1

Granted

1

17/08/2011 (for 1 year)

Large number of vacancies at EWO level

Department of Transport / Transport, Tourism & Sport

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

Road Safety Authority (RSA)

New Posts

Assistant Principals

3

not approved

New Posts

Higher Executive Officers

3

not approved

New Posts

Executive Officers

2

not approved

New Posts

Clerical Officers

3

not approved

New Posts

Vehicle Inspector

11

not approved

2

Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR)

Renew Contract

Principal Officer

1

Approved

1

Dec-09

Vacancy filled to meet statuary obligation

Renew Contract

Assistant Principals

2

Approved

2

Dec-09

Vacancy filled to meet statuary obligation

Renew Contract

Executive Officers

3

Approved

3

Dec-09

Vacancy filled to meet statuary obligation

3

National Accident Investigation Office

Filling Post

Principal Officer

1

Approved

1

Nov-09

Important for safety purposes

4

National Transport Authority

New Posts

CEO

1

Approved

1

Jan-10

Newly established Authority

New Posts

Senior Management

4

Approved/ Not approved

3

Jan-10

Newly established Authority

5

Medical Bureau of Road Safety ( MBRS)

Filling Post

Admin Manager

1

Decision

1

28/6/11

Re-deployment

Filling Post

Scientist

3

Decision

3

28/6/11

Re-deployment

Filling Post

Manager

1

No decision to-date

6

Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR)

Renew Contract

Head of Economics and Air Passengers Rights Executive posts

1

Approved

1

28/6/11

Renewal of employment contracts

7

Railway Safety Commission

Contract

External expertise

1

Approved

1

28/06/11

The short-term engagement of external expertise to provide technical know-how relating to regulatory supervision of railway activities and EU regulations

8

National Transport Authority

Renew Contract

Specialist Roles

5

Approved

3

28/06/11

Renewal of employment contracts of 3 transport modelling staff on contract for so long as the specialist work they are involved in forms part of the workload of the Authority.

Commission for Aviation Regulation

The renewal of employment contracts for the Head of Economics and Air Passengers Rights Executive posts;

The filling of the Deputy Head of Economics post by means of redeployment from the Public Service Redeployment Panel. Only if a candidate with the required skills set is not available can the post be filled by means of external recruitment;

The filling of 2.3 (WTE) administrative staff by means of redeployment from the Public Service Redeployment Panel.

Medical Bureau of Road Safety

The temporary redeployment of 3 locum scientists from within science staff at University College Dublin to help deliver breath testing programmes;

The filling of 1 administrative post by means of redeployment from the Public Service Redeployment Panel.

Road Safety Authority

The filling of a HEO equivalent post on an acting up basis from within the existing staff cohort subject to the post vacated by the successful candidate being suppressed.

Railway Safety Commission

The short-term engagement of external expertise to provide technical know-how relating to regulatory supervision of railway activities and EY regulations.

National Transport Authority

The retention of 3 transport modelling staff on contract for so long as the specialist work they are involved in forms part of the workload of the Authority.

To fill a clerical officer post from the redeployment from the Public Service Redeployment Panel.

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

Teagasc

These posts are long-term recurring positions that are filled on an academic year basis (Sept — June) only. The posts are of importance to the operation of Teagasc Colleges and to the welfare, health & safety of students

Student Supervisors, part time lecturers

3.5

Application refused

Ban on recruitment and promotion in public service applies

Teagasc

To support the delivery of the WIT funded B.Sc. (Hons) Business Management/ Agriculture (Level 8) programme at Kildalton College in the 2009/10 Academic year, as it was not possible to deliver the programme from within existing resources.

part-time Lecturer

0.5

Application refused

Teagasc

To fill three senior management posts, following the retirement of 5 Heads of Directorate (3 age grounds, 2 ISER)

Heads of Directorate — Assistant Secretary

3

Application approved

3

26/11/2009

Exceptional sanction granted based on organisational restructuring from 6 to 4 Head of Directorate posts

Teagasc

Appoint General Manager for Moorepark Technology Limited (MTL) (51% Teagasc ownership) following the retirement of the previous General Manager at MTL.

SPRO (Senior Professional Research Officer)

1

Application approved

1

14/10/2010

MTL plays a critical role in technology transfer for Teagasc.

Teagasc

To recruit nine scientists for the Teagasc Agriculture & Horticulture research programmes.

Scientists

9

Application approved, to recruit six scientists

6

9/11/2010

Recent changes have seriously impacted on Teagasc’s agriculture and horticulture research programmes. Opportunities for internal redeployment are quite limited due to the specialised nature of the roles and the lack of suitable staff to redeploy.

Teagasc

Redeployment of 14 (Private College) employees to Teagasc following the closure of Warrenstown Private College

Teachers

14

Application approved

14

26/06/2009

This sanction was granted on condition that Teagasc identified savings in the wider organisation to facilitate the redeployment of these staff

Teagasc

Request to redeploy another 38 Private College staff into the Organisation

29 Teachers, 3 secretarial, 3 matron, 3 maintenance

38

Application refused

Application refused due to the moratorium.

Teagasc

REPS Staff

Advisory

18

Application approved

18

02/03/2010

Sanction to grant contracts of indefinite duration following Labour Court recommendation.

Teagasc

Senior Management Posts

Senior Management posts, Advisory Grade 4 (PO level)

6

Application approved for Head of ICT

1

3rd March 2011

Bord Iascaigh Mhara

Delivery of service

Eng. Grade 3

5

No Decision

2

30/06/2010

1 Seafood Technology Post 1 Inshore Survey Officer

Bord Iascaigh Mhara

Delivery of service

Master Mariner Posts

2

No Decision

-

03/08/2011

SFPA

fishery Control

See Comment

9

Application pending

-

-

1 National Director 2 Senior port Officers, one based at Castletownbere/Dingle and the second at Clonakilty 5 Sea Fisheries Protection Officers based at port offices and at Clonakilty 1 Clerical Officer based at Clonakilty

Teagasc

Improve efficiency of education delivery

Contract Teachers

16

Sanction was given for six posts

6

17/8/2011

Contract Teachers (3 years max)

Teagasc — subsidiary company Moorepark Technology Limited (MTL)

Retain 2 staff on contracts of indefinite duration to meet the business needs of MTL.

1 Customer Research Assistant and 1 Plant Operator

2

Application approved

2

27/09/2011

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

Central Fisheries Board

To meet legal obligations under the Water Framework Directive

Technician (Hydroacoustics)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

1 year temporary position. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

2

Central Fisheries Board

To meet legal obligations under the Water Framework Directive

Research Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

1 year temporary position. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

3

Central and Regional Fisheries Boards

To meet legal obligations under the Water Framework, Habitats and Eels Directives

Fishery Officers

23

1. Yes, application was approved

23

28/07/2009

4 month seasonal positions. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

4

Eastern Regional Fisheries Board

For increased surveillance in the Dublin, Dundalk and Wexford districts.

Fishery Officers

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

28/07/2009

6.5 month temporary positions. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

5

Shannon Regional Fisheries Board

To fill recently vacated post

Fisheries Environmental Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

1 year temporary position. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

6

Western Regional Fisheries Board

Cover for maternity leave

Administrative Assistant, Grade IV

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

1 year temporary position. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

7

Western Regional Fisheries Board

For housekeeper at Aasleagh Lodge

Summer Student

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

4 month seasonal position. Generates substantial own resources income for the Board.

8

North Western Regional Fisheries Board

To fill recently vacated post

Assistant Inspector

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

Permanent position. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

9

North Western Regional Fisheries Board

For increased salmon protection effort

Fishery Officers

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

28/07/2009

3 month seasonal positions. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

10

Northern Regional Fisheries Board

To fill recently vacated post

Fisheries Environmental Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

Permanent position. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

11

Northern Regional Fisheries Board

For administrative support for the CEO/Assistant CEO

Administrative Assistant, Grade IV

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

6 month temporary position. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

12

Northern Regional Fisheries Board

To meet minimum staffing levels required to run angling centres.

General Operatives

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

28/07/2009

5 month seasonal positions. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

13

Central Fisheries Board

For EU Life+ Programme

Research Officers (including Project Manager)

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

28/07/2009

4 year contract positions. Externally funded: 50% EU, 50% National Parks and Wildlife Service. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

14

Central Fisheries Board

For EU Life+ Programme

Fisheries Assistant

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

4 year contract position. Externally funded: 50% EU, 50% National Parks and Wildlife Service. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

15

Shannon Regional Fisheries Board

Protection and conservation work at Scartleigh Dam

Fishery Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

1 year contract position. Board would be unable to carry out contract with Kerry County Council who are fully funding this post.

16

Shannon Regional Fisheries Board

To fulfil contract with ESB to provide fisheries enforcement services on ESB fisheries in the Shannon region

Fishery Officers

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

28/07/2009

1 year contract positions. Board would be unable to carry out contract with ESB who are fully funding this post.

17

Shannon Regional Fisheries Board

For EU Life+ Programme

Project Manager

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

5 year contract position. Externally funded: 50% EU, 50% National Parks and Wildlife Service and others. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

18

Shannon Regional Fisheries Board

For EU Life+ Programme

Research Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

5 year contract position. Externally funded: 50% EU, 50% National Parks and Wildlife Service and others. Necessity to protect recent investment in the Inland Fisheries resource and in recognition of EU and statutory requirements applying to the Fisheries Boards.

19

Central Fisheries Board

For Marine Sports Fish Programme

Technician (Data Mining)

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/07/2009

1 year contract position. Funded by Marine Institute and own resources

20

Geological Survey of Ireland

To facilitate participation by the INFOMAR programme team in two EU sponsored marine geology projects.

Specialist contract staff

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

23/10/2009

Posts funded from EU sources at no cost to Exchequer. Participation in the projects will leverage external funding to the benefit of the economy Participation in and attraction of such projects is a stated objective of the INFOMAR programme The posts are for a three-year fixed term under specific purpose contracts linked to EU projects

21

Commission for Energy Regulation

To replace retiring Commissioner for Energy Regulation

Commissioner

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

09/11/2009

5 year contract. Current and future role of the CER, both nationally and at a regional and EU level, justifies a full-time multi-member Commission.

22

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

To extend the contract of the Department’s Research Coordinator by 50 weeks.

Research Coordinator

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

18/11/2010

Work to be undertaken is a critical time-defined component of the Knowledge Society Strategy. No further renewal of contract beyond period specified.

23

Commission for Energy Regulation

To renew contract of employment of legal advisor

Level 4, Band A

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

21/01/2010

Permanent contract. Significant savings can be realised from use of in-house legal advice compared with cost of procuring such advice from external sources.

24

Broadcasting Authority of Ireland

Replace Finance Officer

Finance Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

04/02/2010

Sanctioned on basis of redeployment from within the public service.

25

Central Fisheries Board

To formally assign staff member to role of Director of Finance and pay higher duties allowance in absence of post holder who is on sick leave.

Director

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

16/03/2010

Agreed for up to six months.

26

Commission for Energy Regulation

For design and implementation of the Petroleum Safety Framework

Petroleum Safety Manager

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

31/03/2010

Permanent post. Sanctioned on basis that new functions for petroleum safety conferred on the CER require specialist expertise.

27

Commission for Energy Regulation

To assist the Petroleum Safety Manager (see above) in the design and implementation of the Petroleum Safety Framework.

Support Analyst

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

31/03/2010

Permanent posts. Sanctioned on basis that new functions for petroleum safety conferred on the CER require specialist expertise.

28

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

Provide expert financial advice and support to CEO and board. Responsibility for organisation’s financial control function.

Head of Department

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

07/09/2010

Permanent post. Sanctioned on the basis that finance function requires specialist expertise.

29

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

Manage, introduce and operate systems for financial resource allocation and business planning.

Senior Accountant

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

07/09/2010

Permanent post. Sanctioned on the basis that finance function requires specialist expertise.

30

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

To lead and manage the design, development and delivery of a range of initiatives across domestic and non-domestic sectors through the Retrofit Programme.

Programme Manager EDRT

1

Application was approved

1

September 2010

Sanction subject to suitable staff being available from redeployment panel.

31

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

Manage the design, development, implementation, maintenance and review of technical specifications for SEAI administered retrofit programmes.

Technical Standards Development Manager

1

Application was approved

1

September 2010

Sanction subject to suitable staff being available from redeployment panel.

32

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

Support and assist initiatives on fuel poverty in context of retrofit programme

Programme Executive Domestic Energy Efficiency

1

Application was approved

1

September 2010

Sanction subject to suitable staff being available from redeployment panel.

33

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

Provide advice and support to the National Energy Efficiency Retrofit Programme on contract framework agreements and Save As You Pay mechanisms.

Legal and Contracts Executive

1

Application was approved

1

September 2010

Sanction subject to suitable staff being available from redeployment panel.

34

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

To design, implement and oversee a harmonised quality assurance framework across all retrofit programmes.

QA and Inspection Manager

1

Application was approved

1

September 2010

Sanction subject to suitable staff being available from redeployment panel.

35

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

To deliver and manage the Triple E register of energy efficient products that underpin the ACA scheme.

Programme Manager — Accelerated Capital Allowances

1

Application was approved

1

September 2010

Sanction subject to suitable staff being available from redeployment panel.

36

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

To manage and drive the development of energy modelling activity.

Programme Manager — Energy Modelling

1

Application was approved

1

September 2010

Sanction subject to suitable staff being available from redeployment panel.

37

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

Provide a statistical data management and analysis service within the Authority’s Energy Policy Statistical Support Unit

Data Management Executive

1

Application was approved

1

September 2010

Sanction subject to suitable staff being available from redeployment panel.

38

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

Ongoing management and development of the Home Energy Savings Scheme

Programme Manager — Sustainable Energy

1

Application was approved

1

September 2010

Sanction subject to suitable staff being available from redeployment panel.

39

Commission for Communications Regulation

To provide high-level, strategic, mission critical legal advice to the Commissioners and the organisation and to manage all legal matters arising from ComReg’s remit and activities

Senior Legal Counsel

1

Application was approved

1

21 January 2010

Sanctioned on basis of being most cost effective means of procuring legal advice.

40

Inland Fisheries Ireland

Surveillance support

Fishery Officers

6

1. Yes, application was approved

6

20/09/2010

2 month seasonal positions. Sanctioned on basis that appointments in line with agreement on seasonal staff at IFI in Employment Control Framework

41

Inland Fisheries Ireland

Operational support

Fishery Assistants

23

1. Yes, application was approved

23

20/09/2010

2 month seasonal positions. Sanctioned on basis that appointments in line with agreement on seasonal staff at IFI in Employment Control Framework

42

Inland Fisheries Ireland

To run angling centres

General Operatives

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

20/09/2010

2 month seasonal positions. Sanctioned on basis that appointments in line with agreement on seasonal staff at IFI in Employment Control Framework

43

National Oil Reserves Agency

To meet regulatory compliance responsibilities that arise from NORA’s management of both Ringsend and Tarbert storage facilities, and the mitigation of risks associated with same to acceptable levels

Operations Engineer (Engineer Grade II)

1

Application was approved

1

9 November 2010

Approved on basis that Ringsend storage facility about to come on line and need for suitably qualified staff to manage it.

44

Commission for Energy Regulation

Downstream gas and electricity safety staff

CER Analyst

10

Application was approved

10

15 December 2010 & 22 June 2011

Approved on basis that required for CER’s new functions.Original sanction (Dec 2010) for 8 posts plus 2 returnees from career break.Updated sanction (June 2011) for 9 posts (2 redeployed from NBA) and 1 returnee from career break.

45

Inland Fisheries Ireland

To fill vacancy created by retirement

Laboratory Chemist

1

No decision to date

46

Inland Fisheries Ireland

To fill vacancies created by retirements

Inspector

2

No decision to date

47

Inland Fisheries Ireland

To fill vacancies created by retirements

Administrator Grade 4

2

No decision to date

48

Inland Fisheries Ireland

New positions in procurement, business development and operational support

HEO

3

No decision to date

49

Inland Fisheries Ireland

To fill vacancies created by retirements

Assistant Inspector

2

No decision to date

50

Inland Fisheries Ireland

To fill vacancies created by retirements

Fishery Officers

3

No decision to date

51

Commission for Communications Regulation

To fill vacancy created by retirement

Commissioner

1

Application was approved

1

January 2011

52

Inland Fisheries Ireland

To fill seasonal posts

Fishery Officer

32

Application was approved

32

9 May 2011

4 month seasonal positions. Sanctioned on basis that appointments in line with agreement on seasonal staff at IFI in Employment Control Framework

53

Commission for Energy Regulation

Cover for maternity leave

Legal Advisor

1

Application was approved

1

2 June 2011

Sanctioned on basis of being most cost effective means of procuring legal advice.

54

Commission for Energy Regulation

To fill vacancy created by retirement

Commissioner

1

Application was approved

1

29 August 2011

55

Commission for Communications Regulation

To fill vacancy created by retirement

Director, Retail & Consumer Services

1

Application was approved

1

27 September 2011

56

Commission for Communications Regulation

To fill vacancy created by retirement

Postal manager

1

Application was approved

1

27 September 2011

57

Commission for Communications Regulation

New post arising from opening of postal market

Analyst

1

Application withdrawn

59

Commission for Communications Regulation

Renewal of contract

Commissioner

1

Application was approved

1

4 July 2011

60

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

Renewal of contracts

HEO & AP

2

Application was approved

2

1 September 2011

61

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

For national energy retrofit programme and to meet business needs of SEAI

EO

2

Application was approved

2

1 September 2011

Posts to be filled through redeployment. 2 Level B (CO) posts to be suppressed.

62

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

For national energy retrofit programme and to meet business needs of SEAI

AP & HEO

2

Application was approved

2

22 September 2011

Posts to be filled through redeployment

63

Digital Hub Development Agency

To fill marketing executive position

HEO

1

No decision to date

64

Broadcasting Authority of Ireland

To meet business needs of BAI

HEO

2

No decision to date

65

Broadcasting Authority of Ireland

Maternity cover

Senior manager

1

No decision to date

Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

0

Nil requests

0

0

Department of Education and Skills

Public Service Exemptions to Moratorium

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

Vocational Education Committees

To award a fixed term contract to fill one existing caretaker vacancy on a temporary basis to ensure the smooth running of Certificate examinations during June 2009. To give delegated sanction to award similar contracts in other VECs, in similar circumstances, during June 2009, should the need arise.

Caretaker

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

27/05/2009

To ensure uninterrupted running of State examinations. One immediate post sanctioned; delegated sanction to appoint others should the need arise.

2

Co Roscommon VEC

To replace retiring CEO; statutory post. Temporary appointment.

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

26/06/2009 15/10/2009 12/11/2010 01/07/2011

Temporary 6 month appointment to 31/12/2009, pending reorganisation of VECs. — Extended to 28 Feb 2010 (under Sanction 1441 on 15/10/2009). — Extended on 17 February 2010 to 30 April 2010. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2010. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 28 Feb 2011. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2011 on condition DES finalises draft legislation within same period. Further Extend acting-up appointment — Approved until 31 Dec 2011

3

DES

Renewal of secondment of 276 teachers to Education Services

Teacher

276

1. Yes, application was approved

170

06/07/2009

Continuation of highest priority teacher training and support. Partial approval granted. 276 posts were sought of which 170 were approved.

4

Church of Ireland College of Education

To replace retiring principal

Principal, College of Education

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

06/07/2009

Need for head of organisation.

5

NCTE

To fill 1 National Coordinator post; Renewal of contracts of 2 Project Officers; Renewal of either 1 Senior Administrative Assistant or 1 Secretary Grade III post

National Coordinator; 2 Project Officers; Senior Admin Asst or Secretary Grade III

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

31/07/2009

Majority of staff of NCTE employed on fixed term contracts. Need to reappoint a minimum number of these staff (4) to maintain services.

6

IoT Tralee

Request from HEA to fill 2 technician posts — 1 fixed term, 1 fixed purpose to ensure the continued provision of certain courses

2 Technicians

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

23/09/2009

The Technician post in Hotel, Catering and Tourism should be filled on a fixed term contract basis, while the Technician post in Chemical & Life Science should be filled on a temporary basis using a fixed purpose contract to cover the duration of the sick leave of the person who is being temporarily replaced.

7

DLIADT

To replace 4 Technicians

Technician

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

13/10/2009

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

8

Co Offaly VEC

Replace CEO

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

09/10/2009 12/11/2010 01/07/2011 27/09/2011

Temporary 3 month acting appointment pending reorganisation of VECs to 28 Feb 2010. — Extended on 17 February 2010 to 30 April 2010. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2010 Further Extend acting-up appointment to 28 Feb 2011. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2011 on condition DES finalises draft legislation within same period. Further Extend acting-up appointment — Approved until 31 Dec 2011

9

Co Dublin VEC

Replace CEO

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

15/10/2009 01/07/2011 27/09/2011

Temporary 3 month acting appointment pending reorganisation of VECs. Extended to 28 Feb 2010. — Extended on 17 February 2010 to 30 April 2010. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2010 Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2011 on condition DES finalises draft legislation within same period. Further Extend acting-up appointment — Approved until 31 Dec 2011

10

City of Waterford VEC

Replace CEO

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

15/10/2009 12/11/2010 01/07/2011 27/09/2011

Temporary 3 month acting appointment pending reorganisation of VECs. Extended to 28 Feb 2010. — Extended on 17 February 2010 to 30 April 2010. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2010 Further Extend acting-up appointment to 28 Feb 2011. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2011 on condition DES finalises draft legislation within same period. Further Extend acting-up appointment — Approved until 31 Dec 2011

11

Co Westmeath VEC

Replace CEO

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

15/10/2009 12/11/2010 01/07/2011 27/09/2011

Temporary 3 month acting appointment pending reorganisation of VECs. Extended to 28 Feb 2010. — Extended on 17 February 2010 to 30 April 2010. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2010 Further Extend acting-up appointment to 28 Feb 2011. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2011 on condition DES finalises draft legislation within same period. Further Extend acting-up appointment — Approved until 31 Dec 2011

12

Co Donegal VEC

Replace CEO

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

15/10/2009 12/11/2010 01/07/2011 27/09/2011

Temporary 3 month acting appointment pending reorganisation of VECs. Extended to 28 Feb 2010. — Extended on 17 February 2010 to 30 April 2010. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2010 Further Extend acting-up appointment to 28 Feb 2011. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2011 on condition DES finalises draft legislation within same period. Further Extend acting-up appointment — Approved until 31 Dec 2011

13

City of Limerick VEC

Replace CEO

Chief Executive Officer, VEC

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

15/10/2009 12/11/2010 01/07/2011 27/09/2011

Temporary 3 month acting appointment pending reorganisation of VECs. Extended to 28 Feb 2010. — Extended on 17 February 2010 to 30 April 2010. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2010 Further Extend acting-up appointment to 28 Feb 2011. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2011 on condition DES finalises draft legislation within same period. Further Extend acting-up appointment — Approved until 31 Dec 2011

14

IoT Blanchardstown

To replace 5 staff on maternity leave

4 Lecturers and 1 Asst Lecturers

5

1. Yes, application was approved

5

16/10/2009

Fixed purpose contracts to cover 5 staff on mat leave

15

IoT Sligo

Project Manager Higher Certificate in Custodial Care

Project Manager

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

27/10/2009

Fixed term contract to coincide with contract with Prison Service

16

IoT Carlow

To replace 4 Technicians

Technician

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

17/11/2009

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

17

Galway-Mayo IoT

To replace 2.5 Technicians

Technician

2.5

1. Yes, application was approved

2.5

17/11/2009

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

18

IoT Tallaght

To replace 2 Technicians

Technician

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

17/11/2009

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

19

IoT Tralee

To replace 2 Technicians

Technician

2

1. Yes, application was approved

2

17/11/2009

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

20

Dublin Institute of Technology

To replace 6 Technicians

Technician

6

1. Yes, application was approved

6

17/11/2009

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

21

Athlone IoT

To replace 1 Technician

Technician

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

17/11/2009

Health and Safety. Courses would have to be suspended

22

Dundalk IoT

To replace 1 Technician

Technician

1

4. Application was refused

1

17/11/2009

Not recommended by DES and not approved by DOF. Appears not to be required until Jan 2010 anyway

23

TRBDI

Temp Replace 1 Lab Technician

Lab Technician

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

17/11/2009

Temp replacement due to absence on Mat Leave

24

New Body amalgamating HETAC, FETAC & NQAI

CEO of NQAI/Interim CEO of new qualifications and QA Body

Chief Executive Officer

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

22/12/2009

CEO of NQAI and Interim appointment of CEO for the new body to be established amalgamating HETAC, FETAC and the NQAI

25

Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse

to retain 6 staff on rolling 3 month contracts to continue work of commission

2 x f/t EO; 1 x p/t EO; 1 x p/t IT Manager; 2 x p/t SO

4

1. Yes, application was approved

4

06/01/2010

To continue essential work of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse. Please note that the 6 posts equate to less than 4 WTE

26

European Schools

11 Teachers

11 Teachers

11

1. Yes, application was approved

11

02/02/2010

11 Teachers seconded from Ireland to European Schools

27

FETAC

Appt of 3 staff on 3 year fixed term contracts to carry out EQARF project. Fully EU funded.

Director, Policy Officer, Project Administrator

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

12/02/2010

Fully funded by EU. FETAC won tender to carry out EQARF project.

28

Mayo VEC

Appt of 1 Education Officer and 1 Adult Edu. Officer pending VEC amalgamation

1 Adult Education Officer

2

1. Yes, application was approved

1

27/04/2010 01/09/2010 29/03/2011 23/08/2011

1 AEO post sanctioned for initial period of 6 months from 01/09/2010 to 31/03/2011 pending reform of the VEC structure. — extended on 29/03/2011 to 30/09/2011 — extended on 23/08/2011 to 30/12/2011

29

Vocational Support Services Unit (VSSU)

To replace the deceased Director of the Vocational Support Services Unit

Professional Accountant Grade I

1

4. Application was refused

30

Comhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaiochta (COGG)

Appt of 4 staff on initial one year renewable contracts to carry out the functions of COGG. 3 x Development Officer posts and one CO post. Upgrade one existing EO post to HEO level.

3 x Engineer Grade II, 1 x CO, 1 EO to HEO upgrade

4

4. Application was refused

To perform the functions of COGG. The provision of supports for the teaching of Irish at 1st and 2nd level.

31

FETAC

Ext of contracts for 1 year of 3 FETAC Monitors for monitoring and assessment of education providers

3 Monitors

3

4. Application was refused

0

28/04/2010

32

HEA

Ext of contracts of 3 EOs for various tasks

3 EOs

3

1. Yes, application was approved

3

28/04/2010

Part approval granted — 3 posts for 7 months. 1 year extension sought.

33

NEWB

Replacement of CEO (at level of PO (higher scale))

CEO

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

20/05/2010

To continue the work of the CEO. 1 x 5 year fixed-term contract

34

Wexford VEC

Temp Replacement of CEO

CEO

1

1. Yes, application was approved

28/05/2010 17/10/2011

To replace, on an acting basis, the serving CEO who is on extended sick leave. — CEO has returned to post on 1/11/2010. To replace, again, on an acting basis, the serving CEO who is on extended sick leave, to 21 Dec 2011 or whenever present incumbent returns.

35

Co. Longford VEC

Replacement of CEO

CEO

1

1. Yes, application was approved

28/05/2010 12/11/2010 01/07/2011 27/09/2011

CEO due to retire on 17/07/2010. Temp acting appointment to 30/09/2010 Further Extend acting-up appointment to 28 Feb 2011. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2011 on condition DES finalises draft legislation within same period. Further Extend acting-up appointment — Approved until 31 Dec 2011

36

CDVEC

To renew the contracts of 21 School Librarians

Librarian

21

1. Yes, application was approved

21

37

NCTE

To appoint 2 Project Coordinators to work on a pilot project to deliver Next Generation broadband to post-primary schools

2 Project Co-ordinators

2

4. Application was refused

38

VECs

To fill vacancies of cleaning/maintenance staff in 33 VEC administrative offices, as they arise

Cleaner

33

4. Application was refused

39

FÁS

Extension of 17 Employment Service Officers contracts

17 Employment Service Officers

17

1. Yes, application was approved

17

28/06/2010

Retention of 17 Employment Service Officers contracts for a period of 3 months from 26/6/2010 to 30/9/2010

40

NQAI

Retrospective sanction for recruitment of a Grade III post

1 Grade III post

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

06/07/2010

Retrospective sanction for recruitment of a Grade III post

41

FÁS

Specialised Instructor in FÁS in Biopharmaceutical Training Facilities in Cork — Permanent post

Specialised Training Instructor

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

08/07/2010

Appt. on 1 year fixed term covering from July 2010 to 30 June 2011 (third fixed contract) whose duration would relate specifically to however long the attributes of the post were specifically needed.

42

HEA

To engage 1 EO to provide admin support for the co-ordination of programme activities on the context of a European e-infrastructure project for which the HEA has secured funding under FP7

EO

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

30/07/2010

To provide admin support for the co-ordination of programme activities on the context of a European e-infrastructure project for which the HEA has secured funding under FP7 — for period ending no later than 31 December 2010

43

NEWB

Transfer of 3.5 support staff from SCP to NEWB on foot of amalgamation of School Completion Programme

3.5 Support Staff (incl. 1 R&D officer and 1 EO)

3.5

1. Yes, application was approved

2

01/09/2010

Transfer of one EO and one R&D Officer from SCP to NEWB on foot of amalgamation of school support services

44

NCTE

Retention of Director of the NCTE for 2 years

Director

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

01/09/2010

1 year contract for Director of NCTE specifically to achieve the required integration of the work of the NCTE across existing educational support services

45

Grangegorman Development Agency

Appoint a CEO to the GDA (at PO standard scale)

CEO

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

22/09/2009

Appoint a CEO to the GDA (at PO standard scale).Approved, given the particular importance/urgency of filling this post.

46

NQAI

Administrator for Europass

CO

1

4. Application was refused

16/12/10

to administer Europass project

47

Co. Cork VEC

Appointment of acting CEO

CEO

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

12/11/2010 01/07/2011 27/09/2011

Acting appointment of CEO to Co. Cork VEC due to retirement of CEO at end Nov 2010 to 28 Feb 2011. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2011 on condition DES finalises draft legislation within same period. Further Extend acting-up appointment — Approved until 31 Dec 2011

48

Co. Kerry VEC

Appointment of acting CEO

CEO

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

12/11/2010 01/07/2011 27/09/2011

Acting appointment of CEO to Co. Cork VEC due to retirement of CEO at end Nov 2010 to 28 Feb 2011. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2011 on condition DES finalises draft legislation within same period. Further Extend acting-up appointment — Approved until 31 Dec 2011

49

Co. Kilkenny VEC

Appointment of acting CEO

CEO

1

1. Yes, application was approved

11

12/11/2010 01/07/2011 27/09/2011

Acting appointment of CEO to Co. Cork VEC due to retirement of CEO at end Nov 2010 to 28 Feb 2011. Further Extend acting-up appointment to 30 Sept 2011 on condition DES finalises draft legislation within same period. Further Extend acting-up appointment — Approved until 31 Dec 2011

50

FÁS

temporary CO’s to cover SWY — 40 TCO’s max & 20 acting up assignments

40 temp CO’s 20 acting up to ESOs

60

1. Yes, application was approved

60

11/03/2011

Temp CO staff and acting-up allowance to cover SWY in FÁS in 2011.

51

NEWB

1 x director of services 1 x director of integration 1 regional manager 2 x education welfare officer 1 x clerical officer post

Various

6

1 EWO post extended by 6 months

1 extension

24/03/2011

1 post extended as due to expire 29 March 2011 because of staff shortages. 5 other posts queried and pending answers to queries.

52

Teaching Council

Renew contracts of 5 Temp COs to complete registration of existing and new teachers for 2011/2012 academic year

Clerical Officer

5

1. Yes, application was approved

5

31/03/2011

To finalise registration of existing and new teachers in time for September 2011 academic year — Approved until 31 August 2011 only

53

FÁS

Specialised Instructor in FÁS in Biopharmaceutical Training Facilities in Cork

Specialised Training Instructor

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

28/06/2011

Contract of specific purpose from July 2011 whose duration would relate specifically to however long the attributes of the post were specifically needed.

54

Teaching Council

Renew contracts of 5 Temp COs to complete registration of existing and new teachers for 2011/2012 academic year

Clerical Officer

5

1. Yes, application was approved

5

30/08/2011

To extend 3 contracts to end Oct and to finalise registration of existing and new teachers in time for September 2011 academic year. — Approved until 28 October 2011 only

55

FÁS

Temp Aircraft mechanic Instructor for 11 months

Aircraft mechanic Instructor

1

1. Yes, application was approved

1

30/09/2011

Temp Aircraft mechanic Instructor in Shannon form Oct 2011 for 11 months to meet demand for instruction of aircraft maintenance apprentices.

Footnote:

Special arrangements have been agreed with the Department of Education & Science for the filling of certain key posts in the Education sector on a delegated basis, as an exception under the Moratorium, without having to receive the specific approval of the Minister for Finance on a case by case basis. These include:

(1) Vacancies arising in Principal, Vice-Principal, Teaching and Special Needs Assistant posts in schools, which may continue to be filled as they arise, within and subject to an overall ceiling on the number of such posts; be forced to close or new schools would be unable to open in the absence of such support staff;

(2) Vacancies arising in essential support posts (secretarial & caretaking) in Community & Comprehensive and VEC schools, which may continue to be filled on a minimalist basis, where schools would otherwise.

(3) Vacancies arising in posts of responsibility in schools, in certain cases, where this is considered to be necessary for the continued operation of the schools in question;

(4) Certain specific vacancies arising in the Higher Education sector may continue to be filled subject to achieving a targeted reduction in employment numbers by year end.

Department of Justice & Equality

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

Garda

Appointment of 3 Chief Superintendents & 10 Superintendents & 1 Assistant Garda Commissioner

1 Assistant Garda Commissioner, 3 Chief Superintendents, 10 Superintendents

14

Yes, application was approved.

14

22/05/2009

To replace key staff who are retiring

2

Garda

Appointment of 1 Assistant Garda Commissioner

1 Assistant Garda Commissioner

1

Yes, application was approved.

1

28/09/2009

To replace key staff who are retiring

3

Garda

Appointment of 1 Assistant Garda Commissioner , 9 Chief Superintendent, 14 Superintendents, 28 Inspectors, 120 Sergeants (172 posts in total)

1 Assistant Garda Commissioner, 9 Chief Superintendents, 14 Superintendents, 28 Inspectors, 120 Sergeants

172

No formal sanction given as an Employment Control Framework is in the process of being agreed with the Department of Justice for the Justice Sector. Its will then be a matter for the Garda to manage staff numbers within the agreed Framework and associated pay allocation.

4

Garda

Reappointment of Garda to Garda Technical Bureau

1 Garda

1

Yes, application was approved.

1

09/03/2010

Reappointment of a Guard who had left force who had previously been given technical training and worked in the Bureau. 3 staff due to retire from the Bureau this year and this guard’s training and experience would make him suitable to fill one of these posts.

5

Garda

Reappointment of Garda to the Garda Force

1 Garda

1

Yes, application was approved.

1

16/04/2010

Sanction was given on foot of legal advice from the Office of the Attorney General which advised that this Garda had a legitimate expectation that she would be re-appointed on the basis of an agreement between the Minister for Justice and the Garda Commissioner in 1980 regarding the extension of the categories to be considered for re-appointment which included members who resign from the Force to take up a post with UN.

6

Garda

Reappointment of 2 Garda to the Garda Force

2 Garda

2

Yes, application was approved.

2

08/06/2010

Justice sought approval to the reappointment of 2 garda, 1 of whom who left the Force to take up UN posts and another who left to set up a Driving school.

7

Garda

Appointment of 8 Inspectors and 7 Sergeants,

4 Inspectors4 Sergeants

15

8 posts were approved

8

16/08/2011

Justice sought approval to the promotion of 6 sergeants to Inspector (mainstream policing) and 2 sergeants to specialist IT and Mapping Inspector posts and 7 Garda to Sergeant in specialist posts (fingerprinting (3), Ballistics (1) and Telecoms (3). Sanction was given for 3 Inspectors (mainstream policing) and 1 Inspector mapping and 4 Sergeants (fingerprinting (3) and Ballistics (1). 3 of the Inspector posts (mainstream policing) were refused on the grounds that the posts would have to be accommodated through re-organisation/rebalancing of workload of existing postholders. The Inspector posts were filled to replace key staff who are due to retire. The specialist posts were filled due to the need for specialist services. The IT and Telecoms posts are still under consideration.

8

Irish Youth Justice Service

Extension of contracts for 27 staff employed in the Finglas and Oberstown Children Detention Schools.

10 Residential Childcare Workers, 4 Night Supervisors, 6 General Operatives, 1 Chef, 1 Assistant chef, 1 Assistance Maintenance Officer, 2 Clerical Officer, 1 Night Unit manager, 1 Assistant Deputy Director

27

Yes, application was approved.

27

26/06/2009

To facilitate the ordered restructuring of staffing in the youth detention centres prior to the closure of one detention centre.

9

Irish Youth Justice Service

Extension of contract for 1 worker at Trinity House

1 General Operative

1

Yes, application was approved.

1

02/09/2009

To maintain catering services at weekends.

10

Irish Youth Justice Service

Extension of contract for 5 workers at Trinity House

2 Residential Childcare Workers, 2 Night Supervisers, 1 Clerical Officer

5

Yes, application was approved.

5

18/09/2009

To facilitate the ordered restructuring of staffing in the youth detention centres prior to the closure of one detention centre.

11

Irish Youth Justice Service

Extension of contracts for 68 staff employed in the Children Detention Schools to 31 March 2010.

31 Residential Childcare Workers, 12 Night Supervisors, 13 General Operatives, 1 Chef, 1 Assistance Maintenance Officer, 6 Clerical Staff, 3 Night Unit Managers, 1 Assistant Night Unit Manager

68

Yes, application was approved.

68

25/09/2009

To facilitate the ordered restructuring of staffing in the youth detention centres prior to the closure of one detention centre.

12

Irish Youth Justice Service

Contract expired

1 assistant maintenance Officer1 Childcare Worker

2

Yes sanction was given on a permanent basis

2

20/12/2010

Both staff members had particular skills and training which were deemed essential to the running of Oberstiown youth detention centre.

Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government

No.

Requesting Body

Purpose of Sanction

Grade

No. of posts

Decision

No. of posts granted

Date Sanctioned

Comment

1

An Bord Pleanála

Delay in filling staff complement due to industrial relations issue

SEO

1

Sanction was refused

0

09.06.09

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

2

Private Residential Tenancies Board

PRTB wish to engage 30 COs rather than 22 agency staff for same cost

CO

30

Sanction was refused

0

21.05.09

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

3

Environmental Protection Agency

Reappointment as term has expired

Director

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

11.09.09

Post is vital for operation of services.

4

Wicklow County Council*

Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement in the Public Service

Director of Services

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a temporary/acting basis

1

18.12.09

Post is vital for operation of services.

5

Irish Regions Office

Contract expired

EU Programmes & Communication Officer

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

27.01.10

Post is vital for operation of services.

6

BMW Regional Assembly

Contract expired

Auditor

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

24.03.10

Post is vital for operation of services.

7

Environmental Protection Agency

New Post to Manage Dumping at Sea Permits

Technical Manager

1

Sanction was refused

0

08.03.10

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

8

Dublin Docklands Development Authority

Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement in the Public Service

Secretary

1

No decision to date

0

9

Dublin Docklands Development Authority

Contract is due to expire

Director of Finance

1

No decision to date

0

10

Housing Finance Agency

To fill one full time and one part time EO posts to supply administrative support and loan book management

EO

1.5

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1.5

08.03.10

Post is vital for operation of services.

11

Housing Finance Agency

To fill a jobshare CO post due to a member of staff switching to job share

CO

0.5

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

0.5

08.03.10

Post is vital for operation of services.

12

Housing Finance Agency

To fill 1 full time & 1 part time CO posts arising as consequential vacancies from the filling of the EO posts above

CO

1.5

Sanction was refused

0

08.03.10

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

13

Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland

To fill the post of Director of Advisory Services following the departure of Dr. Colgan to the IAEA

PSO

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

08.03.10

Post is vital for operation of services.

14

Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland

Fill the consequential vacancy arising from filling the post of Director of Advisory Services

SSO

1

Sanction was refused

0

08.03.10

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

15

Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland

Fill the consequential vacancy arising from filling the post of Director of Advisory Services

SO

1

Sanction was refused

0

08.03.10

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

16

Local Government Management Agency

Director of OLAM

Director

1

Yes, sanction was given on a temporary/acting basis

1

19.05.10

Post must be filled through redeployment.

17

Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly

To fill a first level controller post to implement the systems of controls for the Ireland Wales Programme

Grade 1V

4

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

19.04.10

Post is vital for operation of services.

18

An Bord Pleanála

Contract Expired. Application to extend contract for 1 year

Planning Inspector

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a temporary/acting basis

1

23.04.10

Post is vital for operation of services.

19

Dublin Docklands Development Authority

Sanction sought to acting up allowance for the Acting CEO

Acting CEO

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a temporary/acting basis

1

24.06.10

Post is vital for operation of services.

20.

Private Residential Tenancies Board

Sanction sought to extend temporary contract by 12 months

ICT Administrator

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a temporary/acting basis

1

15.07.10

Vital to ensure project completion which will negate the need for Agency staff

21.

Irish Water Safety Association

Sanction for a three year contract post sought

Educational Development Officer

1

Sanction was refused

0

05.08.10

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

22.

Environmental Protection Agency

To fill the Programme Manager — Laboratory Services post after a retirement

Programme Manager — Level 1

1

Sanction was refused

0

05.10.10

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

23.

Environmental Protection Agency

To fill the Programme Manager — Aquatic Environment post after a retirement

Programme Manager — Level 1

1

Sanction was refused

0

05.10.10

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

24.

Environmental Protection Agency

To fill the post in the Office of Climate, Licensing & Resource Use after a retirement

Senior Scientific Officer — Level 2

1

Sanction was refused

0

05.10.10

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

25.

Environmental Protection Agency

8 temporary fixed term purpose contract staff sought to cover maternity leave

Level 5 or 6 as appropriate

8

Sanction was refused

0

05.10.10

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

26.

Housing & Sustainable Communities Agency

Fill the post of Director of Asset Management, Planning, Procurement & Shared Services

PO — Standard Equivalent

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

30.09.10

Post is vital for operation of services. Post will be filled through redeployment.

27.

Housing & Sustainable Communities Agency

To fill the post of Director of Research, Policy Standards & Regulations

PO — Standard Equivalent

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

30.09.10

Post is vital for operation of services. Post will be filled through redeployment.

28.

Housing & Sustainable Communities Agency

To fill the post of Director of Local Authority Services

PO — Standard Equivalent

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

30.09.10

Post is vital for operation of services. Post will be filled through redeployment.

29.

Irish Water Safety

Sanction for a three year contract post sought

Educational Development Officer

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a temporary/acting basis

1

29.10.10

Post will be filled through redeployment.

30.

An Bord Pleanála

To fill an Ordinary Board Member post

Ordinary Board Member

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a temporary/acting basis

1

22.12.10

Post to be filled for one year while regarding of Board Members is examined

31.

Housing & Sustainable Communities Agency

To fill Housing Administrator Post

Staff Officer

1

Sanction was refused

0

22.12.10

Request for sanction does not fall within the “very limited circumstances” where Ministerial exceptions can be sought.

32.

An Bord Pleanála

To fill the post of Chairperson

Chairperson

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

14.02.11

Post was advertised stating that pay is being reviewed & may be subject to downward revision

33.

An Bord Pleanála

To fill the post of Deputy Chairperson

Deputy Chairperson

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

18.02.11

Post to be filled for one year while regarding of Board Members is examined

34.

Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly

To fill the post of National Contact Point

National Contact Point

1

No decision to date

0

35.

Environmental Protection Agency

To fill the Director General Post

Director General

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

29.07.11

Post was regraded & a reduced remuneration rate was applied.

36.

Western Development Commission

To provide a Higher Duties Allowance to fill the CEO Post

CEO

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a temporary/acting basis

1

16.08.11

Post was regraded & a reduced remuneration rate was applied.

37.

Western Development Commission

To fill the Chief Executive Officer Post

CEO

1

Sanction was refused

0

18.10.11

Post will be filled through Higher Duties Allowance until Agency is reviewed.

38.

Private Residential Tenancies Board

To fill an Assistant Director Post

AP Higher Scale

1

Yes, sanction was given — on a permanent basis

1

03.08.11

Post is vital for operation of services. Post will be filled through redeployment.

Please note that D/ECLG has a delegated sanction to apply the moratorium in the local authority sector.

Note: A Commission of Investigation into the Banking Sector has also been established, chaired by Mr. Peter Nyberg. The Commission is making a number of appointments to assist it in its work.

Departmental Staff

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

141 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide the names of agencies which provide staff for all Departments of the public sector; the services they provide; the cost to the State of those services, the numbers of staff they provide; and if he will break these details on a Department by Department basis in tabular form. [35206/11]

My Department does not employ any agency staff. You may wish to contact my fellow ministers to ascertain the information with regard to their respective Departments and bodies under their aegis.

Public Capital Programme

Micheál Martin

Question:

142 Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the progress of the national development plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32724/11]

I presume that the Deputy is referring to the Public Capital Programme as the NDP has effectively been superseded for some time now. In this regard, I would draw the Deputy's attention to the Capital Review which the Government published last week. This lays out allocations and priorities for capital investment from 2012 to 2016 reflecting the fiscal constraints we are experiencing. I understand copies of the Review have been circulated to Deputies.

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

143 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which currently exist within his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of each, listing in particular full name, location, the total amount of funding allocated to each in 2011 and total staff numbers; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since he took office, and the total amount of savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of budget 2012; if he will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying in particular their annual running costs, primary function, and staff numbers in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within his Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34900/11]

My Department currently has 13 State Agencies and 8 Offices supporting us in our work. The Agencies are:

Name

Location (Head Office)

Funding allocated in 2011 from the Revised Estimate Volume(€000)

Total staff numbers at 30 September 2011 (WTE)

Enterprise Ireland

Dublin

€168,473 (includes temporary employment subsidy scheme)

811

IDA Ireland

Dublin

€124,577

246

Science Foundation Ireland

Dublin

€175,142

46

Shannon Development

Shannon

€7,118

113

County & City Enterprise Boards (35)

Co-ordination Unit in Shannon i

€30,542

130.9

National Standards Authority of Ireland

Dublin

€6,836

163.55

InterTradelreland (the North/South Trade and Business Development Body)

Newry

€8,041

47.11

Forfas

Dublin

€57,294 (€43,787 relates to pension payments)

105.5

National Consumer Agency ii

Dublin

€8,366

63.5

The Competition Authority

Dublin

€5,116

37.1

Irish Auditing and Accounting Standards Authority

Kildare

€1,598

14

Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB)

Dublin

€58 iii

68

The Health & Safety Authority

Dublin

€20,556

182.1

It should be noted that the funding allocations include also, where appropriate, the cost of grant aid to industry, as well as the normal administrative running costs of the Agency. A breakdown of costs as between payroll and administrative costs and grant aid to industry can be found under Vote 34 of the Revised Estimates Volume for 2011.

The 8 Offices supporting the work of the Department are:

9. The Patents Office

10. Companies Registration Office

11. Office of the Registrar of Friendly Societies

12. Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement

13. Labour Relations Commission

14. Employment Appeals Tribunal

15. Labour Court

16. National Employment Rights Authority (NERA)

The staffing and funding requirements of all of the Offices are provided centrally by my Department. All of the Offices of the Department are located in Dublin, apart from the Patents Office which is based in Kilkenny. In addition, NERA is based in Carlow, although there are small regional offices based in Cork, Shannon, Dublin and Sligo. There is also an office of the Companies Registration Office in Carlow.

In the context of the Government's Programme of Public Sector Reform including rationalisation of the number of State Agencies and Bodies, at its meeting on 5th July, Government approved the drafting of a Bill to give effect to the amalgamation of the Competition Authority and the National Consumer Agency. As both bodies were established under statute, it is necessary to give effect to the newly merged body by way of primary legislation. The proposed Bill will also:

update the existing competition law on foot a review of the operation and implementation of the 2002 Competition Act,

strengthen the public interest test in respect of media mergers, in line with the report of the Advisory Group on Media Mergers,

make some minor amendments to the consumer protection legislation, and

provide for a Code of Practice for doing business in the Grocery Goods sector.

It is expected that drafting of this Bill will be completed in the first half of 2012. In relation to the Employment Rights and Industrial Relations bodies within my Department's remit, I have announced my intention to streamline the work of five bodies currently dealing with employment disputes in the workplace into a two-tier structure. Four of the existing bodies — the Employment Appeals Tribunal, the National Employment Rights Authority, The Labour Relations Commission and the Labour Court — are currently within my remit. One — the Equality Tribunal — is currently within the remit of the Minister for Justice and Equality. I expect this reform and streamlining project to deliver a measurable improvement in the quality of services provided to users of the State's employment rights/industrial relations dispute resolution services and reduce the burden of accessing such services for users and reduce costs to the State. I have announced an ambitious timeline for delivery, including a number of initiatives to be delivered by the end of this year, including a single portal of entry for all claims, a single website containing all relevant information and a single application form for workplace dispute claims. Regarding the Enterprise agencies under my Department's remit, I am currently considering how the policy and research functions of Forfás could be integrated with my Department's resources to further enhance the formulation and development of national enterprise policy.

Work is well advanced in my Department on determining the extent of a restructuring of the network of CEBs in a way that brings greater cohesion to the way that local enterprise supports are embedded into the national enterprise policy framework and interact with key local stakeholders. My intention is to ensure appropriate and targeted local delivery of enterprise supports within the context of national enterprise policy in a manner which eliminates overlap and duplication and provides an enhanced focused model for entrepreneurs.

iEach of the County and City Enterprise Boards (CEBs) are individual limited companies in their own right and therefore do not have a "Head Office". They do however have a CEB Central Coordination Unit located within El, based in Shannon providing day-to-day operational, technical and financial support (budgets and budgetary matters) to CEBs.

iiUnder the Central Bank Reform Act 2010, the consumer information and education functions carried out by the Financial Regulator were formally transferred to the Agency with effect from 1 January 2011. The cost of the Agency's financial services function is exchequer neutral as it is funded by a levy on regulated financial service providers. The Central Bank has agreed to collect the levy on the Agency's behalf for administrative reasons. In the interim, the Department is paying non-pay costs through Subhead R02 and the Central Bank is funding pay costs. The Department will be reimbursed when the levy is collected by the Central Bank later on in the year. The Central Bank administers the pay costs in relation to this function on behalf of the Agency. An allocation of €2m is included in the Estimates figure provided for the Agency and the staffing figure includes 18.9 whole-time equivalent staff in respect of these functions.

iiiThe PIAB is self-funded by fees paid for its services. The purpose of the provision of €58,000 is to reimburse PIAB in respect of pension payments made to retired staff.

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

144 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the names of all persons nominated by him or by a Minister of State at his Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34987/11]

Advisory Council on Science, Technology and Innovation

In consultation with the Minister for Research and Innovation, Seán Sherlock T.D., the Forfás Board appointed the following members to the Advisory Council on Science, Technology and Innovation with effect from July 2011: Dr David Lloyd, Bursar and Director of Strategic Innovation, Trinity College Dublin; Kevin O'Leary, Chief Executive Officer, Qumas Ltd.; and Julie O'Neill, Vice President, Operations and General Manager, Gilead Sciences Ltd.

The Advisory Council on Science, Technology and Innovation is the national entity providing policy advice to the Irish Government on science, technology and innovation issues. Its membership is drawn from complementary professional and enterprise sectors.

Science Foundation Ireland

I have reappointed Dr. Rita Colwell and Dr. Martina Newell McLoughlin to the Board of Science Foundation Ireland with effect from 25th July 2011.

Personal Injuries Assessment Board

Ms Breda Power, Assistant Secretary at the Department of Jobs, Enterprise & Innovation, was appointed by me to the Personal Injuries Assessment Board. Ms Power's appointment was made on the 26th of October 2011 for a period not exceeding five years.

Food Safety Consultative Panel

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland Act 1998 provides for the establishment of the Food Safety Consultative Council by the Food Safety Authority. Section 14 of the Act provides for the appointment by the Minister for Health of "not more than 12 members" of the Council of whom "one shall have been nominated by the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation" I nominated Mr. Peter Dargan, Barrister on 11th October 2011.

Health and Social Care Professionals Council

Section 9(3)(b)(iv) of the Health and Social Care Professionals Act 2005 provides that of the 13 members from outside professions registered under the Act, 6 are representative of the interest of the general public and are appointed with the consent of the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation. I recently consented to the appointment of Ms. Kirsten Quinn, Brand Manager, ESB, Mr. Martin Higgins, CEO, SafeFood and Mr. Donal Casey, CEO, AON.

Labour Court

In accordance with the provisions of the Industrial Relations Acts, I appointed Linda Tanham as a Member of the Labour Court on 29th August 2011 and re-appointed Peter Murphy as a Member on 15th September 2011.

Labour Relations Commission

In accordance with the provisions of the Industrial Relations Acts, I re-appointed Michael Rooney as a Rights Commissioner on 23rd September 2011.

Innovation Fund Ireland

Willie O'Dea

Question:

145 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the total spend on Innovation Fund Ireland in each of the years from its foundation to 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35037/11]

Innovation Fund Ireland (IFI) is a key pillar of support for dynamic new industries and investments through the Fund facilitate job creation in innovative export focused sectors as well as providing a return to the exchequer over time.

The Fund has up to €250 million available to make commitments. This funding runs along two parallel tracks. The first comprises a €125 million pool of funds provided by the Exchequer and managed by Enterprise Ireland. Successful applicants who receive an investment from Enterprise Ireland will have to commit to investing an equivalent amount in ‘Irish companies or companies with significant Irish operations' over the lifetime of their fund. The second is for a similar amount and designed to allow Ireland's National Pensions Reserve Fund (NPRF) to make a similar level of commercial investments assuming its criteria are met.

Over the lifetime of the funds, it is envisaged that the State will make a return on its investment. In terms of economic growth where the Funds invest in Irish start-up, scaling companies or companies with operations in Ireland, the State can expect to see:

an increase in employment;

an increase in the number of high potential start-ups;

the attraction of high potential start up and scaling European technology and life science companies requiring growth capital investment to Ireland;

increased commercialisation of the ideas and R&D coming out of the Universities and Institutes of Technology and

the enhancement of Ireland as a centre for technology, life sciences and venture capital investment within Europe through multiple fund iterations.

Following the first call for expressions of interest in September 2010, a large number of responses were received from a sectorally and geographically diverse group of companies. To date the NPRF have made three investments. The first investments were in DJF Esprit and DFJ Venture Capital resulting in a partner being hired on the ground in Ireland to invest in Irish companies. The other NPRF investment is in Polaris which has resulted in the establishment of the first Dogpatch Incubator Lab outside of the United States.

The first round of commitments out of the €125m of Enterprise Ireland managed funds are expected to be to be formalised in the near term that will amount to €60m of the total EI fund. As you will be aware I issued a statement on October 5th indicating my intention to issue a second call for expressions of interest for the remaining of the fund when the first of the new Irish offices associated with these new investments is established.

Venture Capital Funds are established by way of Limited Partnership Agreements. These involve limited partners such as Enterprise Ireland committing to invest an agreed figure over the lifetime of a venture capital fund. Venture Capital Funds are normally 10 years in length and during the first 5 years (known as the investment period) the Fund managers make investments in new companies and in the latter stages of the fund they follow those investments.

The exact drawdown per year for commitments under IFI to 2016 will depend on a range of factors which will only become clear when the expressions of interest are received and examined following a second call. Therefore, the annual spend over the period is dependent on the investments made of the fund and cannot be predetermined. However, in estimating this for budget purposes, previous Enterprise Ireland drawn down figures and international benchmarks have been used and these have been factored into the EI capital allocation announced by me last week.

Science Foundation Ireland

Willie O'Dea

Question:

146 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the numbers of researchers to be supported under the Science Foundation Ireland funding in each of the years 2012 to 2016 under the announced capital funding; the comparable figures for the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35038/11]

Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) typically makes research grants awards that are multi-annual in nature, typically spanning a three to five year period.

The following table sets out the researcher numbers directly supported by SFI since 2006.

Year

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

No. of Researchers

1,362

1,909

2,812

3,225

2,999

c.3,000

Due to the wide range of variables that impact upon the overall numbers of researchers being directly supported by SFI in-year it is not possible to provide exact projections of the numbers of researchers that will be supported under SFI funding. The following estimated projections represent the most likely scenarios based on current information available.

Year

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Estimated number of SFI supported Researchers

3,000

2,900

2,750

2,750

2,750

It is to be expected that some of the researcher number reductions may be offset by other sources, such as EU funding which has been an increasing source of funds for the Irish research system in recent years.

Employment Statistics

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

147 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will estimate the expected employment levels for second quarter of 2012 and the end of 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35081/11]

Quarterly Irish economic data can be very volatile. Reflecting this, the Government's labour market forecasts are based on annual averages, rather than quarterly figures.

The Medium Term Fiscal Statement published by the Minister for Finance on 4 November forecasts a projected decline of 1.8% in employment levels over the whole of 2011 and a marginal contraction of 0.2% in employment levels for 2012 as a whole. Based on these figures, the Department of Finance forecasts that employment levels will average in the order of 1.811 million in 2012.

Supported by the measures set out in the Government's Jobs Initiative, the economy is expected to be creating jobs on a net basis by the end of next year, with an annual increase foreseen for 2013.

It is important to point out that the forecasts provided in the Medium Term Fiscal Statement are predicated on policies that have already been published and cannot take into account policies that have yet to be announced. I am currently preparing a Jobs Strategy for the Government which will set out a series of clear, actionable measures to support the creation of jobs. This Strategy will be published in January.

Economic Growth

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

148 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the levels of growth in the years 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011; the expedited levels of growth for quarter 1, quarter 2, quarter 3 and quarter 4 in the years 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35082/11]

The figures for economic growth for the years 2008 to 2010, and quarterly figures in respect of the first two quarters of 2011, are set out in Table 1, showing GDP and GNP at constant market prices.

Quarterly Irish economic data can be very volatile. Reflecting this, the Government's economic forecasts for future years are based on annual averages, rather than quarterly figures.

The Medium Term Fiscal Statement published by the Minister for Finance on 4 November sets out growth projections for the years 2011-2015 on this basis. These figures are provided on Table 2.

The figures indicate that, after three years of decline, we will achieve modest growth in 2011 and in 2012, with more significant growth being realised in 2013, 2014 and 2015.

The traded sector is leading this recovery. Safeguarding and expanding the economy's export base will be a critically important objective of our overall economic strategy. The Government will continue to develop and implement policies designed to improve the competitiveness of our internationally traded sectors and the economy as a whole and enhance Ireland's attractiveness as a place in which to set up and grow businesses.

Table 1 — Annual Percentage Change in GDP and GNP at Constant Market Prices, 2008-2011

2008

2009

2010

Q1 2011

Q2 2011

GDP

-3.0

-7.0

-0.4

0.3

2.3

GNP

-2.8

-9.8

0.3

1.0

1.1

Source: CSO

Table 2 — Projected Annual Percentage Change in GDP and GNP at Constant Market Prices, 2011-2015

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

GDP

1.0

1.6

2.4

3.0

3.0

GNP

0.4

1.0

1.7

2.3

2.3

Source: Department of Finance, Medium Term Fiscal Statement, November 2011

Community Employment Schemes

Paschal Donohoe

Question:

149 Deputy Paschal Donohoe asked the Minister for Social Protection if her attention has been drawn to the fact that FÁS recently removed funding to community employment schemes (details supplied); the impact this withdrawal will have on after schools education and support programmes; if she will review this matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34955/11]

From 1st January 2011 policy and funding responsibility for FÁS functions in relation to employment and community employment services was transferred to the Department of Social Protection in accordance with the provisions of the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2010. FÁS remains responsible for the day to day operation of community employment in accordance with the terms of a Service Agreement/Framework Document which it has concluded with the Department.

A number of community employment projects operate in support of the National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016 to provide 1,000 work and training placements as part of the overall funding for the community employment programme. These work and training placements can be located in special CE projects or in designated CE positions in other CE projects as in the case with the organisation detailed. Specific criteria for the selection of placements and participants agreed with the sector representatives are in place. Further work is underway by the National Drug Rehabilitation Implementation Committee under the aegis of the Minister of State with responsibility for the National Drugs Strategy to review the allocation of placements and recruitment procedures to ensure that effective referral protocols are in place.

FÁS has informed me that there has been no withdrawal or reduction in funding to the organisation detailed by the Deputy. As indicated during a Topical Issues Debate on this matter in this House on Tuesday the 8th November last, the conditions relating to the CE Drugs Rehabilitation Programme have not changed. The position is that, following a review process carried out by the CE Oversight Working Group during 2010, the conditions have been restated and the referral process has been clarified. A commitment has been given to the organisation concerned that those participants already engaged by it under the CE Drugs Rehabilitation Programme will not be detrimentally affected by the refocusing of recruitment procedures. Participant numbers supported by FÁS in the organisation will be maintained at their present level. My Department will continue to work with the Office of the Minister of State with responsibility for the National Drugs Strategy and with FÁS to improve the effectiveness of this particular initiative.

Redundancy Payments

Brendan Griffin

Question:

150 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection when redundancy payment will be made available to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34962/11]

A redundancy lump sum payment in respect of the person detailed was awarded on 14th November 2011 and a cheque will issue shortly.

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

151 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which currently exist within his Department; if she will provide a breakdown of each, listing in particular full name, location, the total amount of funding allocated to each in 2011 and total staff number; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since she took office, and the total amount of savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of budget 2012; if she will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying in particular their annual running costs, primary function, and staff number in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within her Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34903/11]

There are three statutory bodies operating under the aegis of the Department of Social Protection, namely 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.

The information sought regarding location, staff numbers and funding allocated to the above statutory bodies is as follows:

Name/Location

Number of Staff

2011 Budget Allocation

*Social Welfare Tribunal

Nil

€0.002m

Citizens Information BoardGround FloorGeorges Quay House43 Townsend StreetDublin 2

81 Full time equivalent(FTE)

€46.64m

The Pensions BoardVerschoyle House28/30 Lower Mount StreetDublin 2

37.8 (FTE)

The operations of the Pensions Board are largely financed by annual fees payable to it by occupational pension schemes (OPS) and by providers of Personal Retirement Savings Accounts. The estimated fee receipts for OPS is €3.2m and PRSA fees is €1.7m in 2011. Projected expenditure for 2011 is €5.5m. The allocation from the Department of Social Protection for the National Pension Awareness Campaign is €0.4m in 2011.

Office of the Pensions Ombudsman36 Upper Mount StreetDublin 2

10 FTE

€1.009m

*Social Welfare Tribunal

There are no full-time staff allocated to the Social Welfare Tribunal. One member of staff from the Department acts as Secretary to the Tribunal as part of their normal duties. The Tribunal consists of a Chairperson and four ordinary members, two nominated by ICTU and two nominated by IBEC.

The Chairperson and members do not receive an annual salary but are paid fees for attending hearings or meetings. The Tribunal holds hearings and meetings as required to deal with social welfare entitlement issues arising in the context of industrial disputes. All expenditure in relation to the Social Welfare Tribunal comes from hearings and meetings. There has been no expenditure to date in 2011.

No statutory body under the aegis of the Department has been merged or abolished since March 2011.

The possibility of merging the Pensions Board with the Financial Regulator and merging the Pensions Ombudsman with the Financial Services Ombudsman has been raised for consideration. While there are no immediate plans to proceed along those lines, the feasibility of doing so will be kept under review.

Social Welfare Appeals

Paudie Coffey

Question:

152 Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an appeal for an invalidity pension in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34923/11]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 03 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 in due course 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.

Social Welfare Benefits

Joan Collins

Question:

153 Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Social Protection her views in regard to the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 20; and her further views on whether persons are penalised for taking up work. [34924/11]

The community welfare service and the community welfare officers providing it, transferred formally to the Department of Social Protection from 1 October 2011.

The person concerned was in receipt of a monthly rent allowance of €812 up to September 2011 when she commenced a community employment scheme. Her entitlement to rent allowance was reviewed due to her change in circumstances and a revised rent allowance of €356.85 was incorrectly assessed. This error has now been rectified and her monthly rate has been reassessed at €512.85 with effect from October 2011. Payment of two months' rent allowance will issue to her on 29 November 2011.

If the person concerned is not happy with her current rent allowance entitlement it is open to her to submit an appeal to the social welfare appeals office citing her grounds for appeal.

In relation to the position of people on social welfare payments taking up employment a relatively small cohort of people are in a position where the difference between in-work income and out of work income reduces the incentive to work. The degree of financial disincentive varies very significantly depending on individual circumstances such as the number of dependent children and the receipt of rent or mortgage supplement.

As a support to families on low income my Department administers the family income supplement which is a weekly payment for families, including one parent families where income from insurable employment is below a fixed amount for the family size.

In relation to rent allowance, a multi-agency steering group established by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government are currently developing proposals and operational protocols for the transfer of responsibility from the Department of Social Protection to housing authorities of persons who have long term housing requirements. The focus of this approach is to achieve a key Government commitment of removing barriers to employment and at the same time returning rent supplement to its original purpose of a short-term income support.

Jack Wall

Question:

154 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for rent allowance for a new address in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34927/11]

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 on the 10th of October 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.

Social Welfare Appeals

Martin Ferris

Question:

155 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will issue on appeal by a person (details supplied). [34942/11]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 26 October 2011. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by the Community Welfare Services on the grounds of appeal be sought. When received, the appeal in question will be referred in due course 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.

Martin Ferris

Question:

156 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will issue on an appeal by a person (details supplied). [34943/11]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 21 September 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 in due course 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.

Martin Ferris

Question:

157 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will issue on an appeal by a person (details supplied). [34944/11]

I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that the appeal from the person concerned has been referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing on 23 November 2011. The person concerned has been notified of the arrangements.

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.

Martin Ferris

Question:

158 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will issue on an appeal by a person (details supplied). [34945/11]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 02 November 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 in due course 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.

Social Welfare Code

Gerry Adams

Question:

159 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will provide an update on the work of the group established to examine the position of part-time firefighters in relation to their entitlement to jobseeker’s benefit or allowance. [34956/11]

Social welfare legislation provides that a person must satisfy the conditions of being available for and genuinely seeking work in order to be entitled to jobseeker's benefit or jobseeker's allowance. Any person who fails to satisfy these conditions is not entitled to a jobseeker's payment. Part-time firefighters are entitled to a jobseeker's payment in respect of days that they are engaged in firefighting or training. They are, however, required to satisfy the statutory conditions for the receipt of a jobseeker's payment of being available for and genuinely seeking work. In this respect, Deciding Officers do not treat them differently to any other jobseeker's benefit or allowance claimant. While the importance of retained fire brigade personnel is fully recognised, special arrangements exempting them from the requirement to fulfil the statutory conditions for entitlement to jobseeker's benefit or allowance would raise equity issues vis-à-vis other claimants to jobseeker’s payments. However, taking account of the unusual circumstances of these workers and general efforts to develop and standardise our jobseeker schemes, a group has been established in the Department to examine the position of part-time firefighters in relation to unemployment payments. The issues involved in this area are detailed and considerations by the group are ongoing.

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

160 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Social Protection the names of all persons nominated by her or by a Minister of State at her Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34990/11]

The three statutory bodies operating under the aegis of the Department of Social Protection are the Social Welfare Tribunal, the Citizens Information Board and the Pensions Board. In addition, the Office of the Pensions Ombudsman (which does not have a board) comes under the remit of the Department. Mr. Eugene McErlean was appointed to the Citizens Information Board on 7 September 2011. That vacancy was publicly advertised and the appointment was made following a rigorous selection process taking account of the need for particular expertise on the board. Following a recent resignation, there is one vacancy on the Social Welfare Tribunal to be filled by a nominating body. The process for appointing a replacement member is under way. No appointment has been made to the board of the Pensions Board since 9 March 2011. Information on boards, board members and appointments is available on the Department's website at www.welfare.ie/EN/AboutUs/Pages/stateagencies.aspx and is updated as required.

Community Development

Brendan Griffin

Question:

161 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will review a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35005/11]

The community services programme co-funds the services delivered by around 440 community-based not-for-profit enterprises across the State. Some €47.4 million has been allocated to the programme in 2011, supporting 2,800 people in full-time and part-time employment. A key requirement of the programme is that the service provider must generate a significant element of their turnover from traded activity or other non-public sources of income. The reduction in the rate of employers' PRSI resulting from the Government's jobs initiative will have a positive effect on some service providers funded by the community services programme by reducing their PRSI liability. I do not propose to alter the value of the contracts in place with service providers for 2011.

Social Welfare Offices

Alan Farrell

Question:

162 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Social Protection the times in which all social welfare service offices throughout the country are manned in tabular form; when they are available to speak with the public in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35018/11]

Alan Farrell

Question:

163 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Social Protection the opening hours of all social welfare service offices throughout the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35019/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 162 and 163 together.

The Department operates a network of local and branch offices throughout the country. Each of these offices is manned during normal working hours and is open to the public from Monday to Friday each week during the hours indicated in the following table. Each office has dedicated officers who are available to explain supports and services and provide other information to customers on their entitlements. These locally based services are supported by a central information unit which operates a LoCall information line (1890 662244) which customers may call for general information and guidance on departmental services.

Office

Opening Hours

Exception(s)

Ardee (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Achill

9.15 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 12.00 14.00 — 16.00

Apollo House

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Arklow

9.15 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Fri 9.15 — 12.00 14.00 — 15.00

Athlone

9.30 — 16.00

Athy (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Balbriggan

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Ballina

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Ballinasloe (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Ballinrobe (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Ballybofey (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Ballyconnell (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Ballyfermot

9.30 — 16.00

Fri 10.30 — 16.00

Ballymun

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Ballyshannon (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Baltinglass (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Bandon (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Bantry

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Bantry (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Belmullet

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Birr (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Bishop Square

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Blanchardstown

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 9.30 — 15.00

Boyle (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Bray

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 9.30 — 15.00

Buncrana

9.15 — 16.00

Mon 9.15 — 15.00

Cahir (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Cahirciveen

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Carlow

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 9.30 — 15.00

Carrickmacross (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Carrick-on-Shannon

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 9.30 — 15.00

Carrick-on-Suir (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Carrigaline

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Cashel (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Castlebar

9.15 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Fri 10.30 — 12.00 14.00 — 16.00

Castleblaney (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Castlepollard (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Castlerea (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Cavan

9.30 — 16.00

Fri 9.30 — 15.00

Claremorris (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Clifden

9.15 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 12.00 14.00 — 16.00

Clonakilty (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Clondalkin

9.30 — 16.00

Fri 9.30 — 15.00

Clones (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Clonmel

9.30 — 16.00

Wed 9.30 — 15.00

Cobh

9.15 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Coolock

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 9.30 — 15.00

Cork

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Dingle (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Donegal Town (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Drogheda

9.30 — 16.00

Dun Laoghaire

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Dundalk

9.30 — 16.00

Dunfanaghy

9.15 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Dungarvan (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Dungloe

9.30 — 16.00

Edenderry (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Ennis

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 9.30 — 15.00

Enniscorthy (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Ennistymon (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Fermoy (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Finglas

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Galway

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Gorey (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Gort (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Kells (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Kenmare

9.30 — 12.00

Tues 9.30 — 16.00

Kilbarrack

9.30 — 16.00

Fri 10.30 — 16.00

Kilkenny

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 9.30 — 15.00

Killarney

9.30 — 13.00

14.00 — 16.00

Thur 10.00 — 13.00 14.00 — 16.00

Killorglin (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Killybegs (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Kilmallock (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Kilrush (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

King’s Inn Street

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Kinsale (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Letterkenny

9.30 — 16.00

Limerick

9.30 — 16.00

Listowel

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Longford

9.30 — 16.00

Loughrea

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Macroom (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Mallow (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Manorhamilton

9.15 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Maynooth (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Midleton (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Monaghan (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Muine Bheag (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Mullingar

9.30 — 16.00

Navan

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Navan Road

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Nenagh (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

New Ross (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Newbridge

9.30 — 16.00

Fri 9.30 — 15.00

Newcastlewest

9.30 — 16.00

Newmarket (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Nutgrove

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Portarlington (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Portlaoise (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Rathdowney (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Roscommon (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Roscrea (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Skibbereen (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Sligo

9.30 — 16.00

Swinford (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Swords

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 16.00

Tallaght

9.30 — 16.00

Fri 10.30 — 16.00

Thomas Street

9.30 — 16.00

Fri 10.30 — 16.00

Thomastown (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Thurles

9.30 — 16.00

Thur 9.30 — 15.00

Tipperary (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Tralee

9.30 — 16.00

Trim (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Tuam (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Tubbercurry (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Tulla (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Tullamore

9.30 — 16.00

Fri 10.30 — 16.00

Tullow (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Waterford

9.30 — 16.00

Westport

9.15 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Thur 10.30 — 12.00 14.00 — 16.00

Wexford

9.30 — 16.00

Fri 9.30 — 15.00

Wicklow (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Youghal (Branch Office)

9.30 — 12.00

14.00 — 16.00

Social Insurance Fund

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

164 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Social Protection the levels of the social insurance fund each year from 2007 to 2011; the size of the deficit in the social insurance fund in absolute and % terms for each of the same years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35075/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is provided in the following table:

Year

Income

Expenditure

Surplus / Deficit

As % of expenditure

€000

€000

€000

2007

7,834,147

7,250,990

583,157

8.0%

2008

8,144,410

8,399,739

-255,329

-3.0%

2009

7,297,601

9,784,225

-2,486,624

-25.4%

2010

6,709,681

9,460,835

-2,751,154

-29.1%

2011

7,148,371

9,054,539

-1,906,168

-21.1%

The information shown in respect of 2007 to 2010, inclusive, is the out-turn for each year. The information shown in respect of 2011 is the Estimate published in the Revised Estimates Volume. From its inception, social insurance spending was funded on a tripartite basis, with contributions coming from employers, workers and the Exchequer. The Exchequer is the residual financier of the Social Insurance Fund and Exchequer contributions were the norm over 40 years. For example in 1967, the State contribution was 38% of fund expenditure and almost 29% in 1985. However, no Exchequer contributions were required between 1996 and 2009 as the Fund was in surplus on foot of contributions from employers and workers. The Social Insurance Fund has incurred an operating deficit each year since 2008. Total spending in 2008 exceeded total income in 2008 and that pattern has been repeated in subsequent years. This deficit was funded in 2008 and 2009 using the fund's cash reserves accumulated in the earlier years of operating surplus. The remaining balance of the accumulated surplus was fully depleted during 2010, with the shortfall in 2010 and again in 2011 being met by way of Exchequer subvention from Vote 38 in accordance with section 9 of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

165 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will make it a priority to ensure the social insurance fund is fully funded from 2012; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35076/11]

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

166 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Social Protection in order to balance the social insurance fund, if she will consider a social insurance payment for all types of income, including rental and currently non-assessed income; the estimated yield if social insurance was extended to all incomes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35078/11]

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

The Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act, 2005 requires regular actuarial reviews of the financial condition of the Social Insurance Fund. The last such review was published in 2007 and was based on the position as at 31 December 2005. The key objectives of the review were to project future contribution income to and benefit outgo fro the Fund. The review also considers the adequacy or otherwise of the current contribution rates to the Fund, the impact of a number of possible changes to the Fund's benefit / contribution terms, and the value-for-money provided by the Fund in a range of individual circumstances. The next actuarial review will be published in 2012.

Measures such as those referred to by the Deputy are considered against this background and in the context of Budget deliberations. It is not possible to quantify potential yield in the absence of specific proposals.

Departmental Schemes

Michael McCarthy

Question:

167 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will be made on a case (details supplied) following a representation made regarding the JobBridge scheme on 6 October 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35107/11]

JobBridge, the National Internship Scheme, is open to organisations in the public, private and community and voluntary sectors. In order to participate in JobBridge an organisation must employ at least one full time employee who works for a minimum of thirty hours per week. The aim of this criterion is to ensure that a participating organisation has the capacity to monitor and provide the necessary support and learning to the intern over the course of the internship.

It should also be noted that an intern under the JobBridge scheme must be with their host organisation for a minimum of thirty hours per week to ensure that they receive a meaningful and high quality work experience opportunity during their internship.

No exception can be made in relation to these criteria as they are central elements in ensuring that JobBridge provides interns with a quality and invaluable experience, which aims to improve their employment prospects.

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

168 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which currently exist within his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of each, listing in particular full name, location, the total amount of funding allocated to each in 2011 and total staff number; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since he took office, and the total amount of savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of budget 2012; if he will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying in particular their annual running costs, primary function, and staff number in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within his Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34892/11]

The 15 State bodies/agencies currently funded from my Department's Vote Group are listed in the table together with details of the whole-time equivalent staff serving in each body as at 30 September 2011.

Details of the expenditure allocations made available to the bodies in question are published each year in the annual REV and the Appropriation Account. The REV also includes Agency Statements, which provide details in relation to expenditure on administration and pay in the previous year. These publications are available on the website of Department of Public Expenditure and Reform at www.per.gov.ie and on the website of the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General at www.audgen.gov.ie. The primary function of the bodies/agencies is detailed on their web-sites, together with other relevant information, all of which can be accessed through the Department’s website at:

http://www.ahg.gov.ie/en/AboutUs/AgenciesBodiesunderDepartmentsAegis/.

As the Deputy will be aware, the question of the rationalisation and the reduction of State bodies is currently being considered in the context of the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure and the overall budgetary and estimates process for 2012, and decisions on such matters will be announced by the Government in due course.

No State bodies have been closed by my Department since its establishment on 2 June 2011.

Table:

Name of Agency

Number of whole time equivalent staff serving at 30/09/2011

Waterways Ireland

359.81

Foras na Gaeilge

61

Údarás na Gaeltachta

92.8

Crawford Art Gallery

14

National Library of Ireland

109.27

Heritage Council

16

National Gallery of Ireland

113.20

National Concert Hall

59

National Museum of Ireland

164.99

Irish Museum of Modern Art

81

Arts Council

46

National Archives

44.7*

Chester Beatty Library

32.5

Irish Film Board

15

An Coimisinéir Teanga

6.4*

*Part of overall Departmental numbers

Grant Payments

Brendan Griffin

Question:

169 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will consider making grant aid available to students from disadvantaged backgrounds to enable them to attend Irish language courses in the Gaeltacht; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34964/11]

Under Scéim na bhFoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge, my Department provides assistance to Gaeltacht households who accommodate Irish students while attending Gaeltacht Summer Colleges. This helps to reduce the cost for those families who wish to send their children to the Gaeltacht, including those from disadvantaged areas.

While my Department does not provide direct financial support to families who wish to send their children to the Gaeltacht, assistance of this nature may be available in some cases from the relevant local authority or from the relevant Vocational Education Committee.

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

170 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the names of all persons nominated by him or by a Minister of State at his Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34978/11]

The details of persons nominated to State boards within the ambit of my Department are set out in the table.

Name of Body

Appointments since 9th March 2011

National Gallery of Ireland

Fred Krehbiel

National Concert Hall

Kieran Tobin (Chair)

Dearbhla Collins

John McGrane

Laurie Cearr

Gina Menzies

Bruce Arnold

Margaret Ryan

Ray Bates

Alma Hynes

Artemis Kent

Deborah Kelleher

Peter McEvoy

Pat Heneghan

Rachel Holstead

Patricia Slavin

Arts Council

Eimear O’Connor

Ciaran Walsh

Mark O’Regan

John Fanning

Chester Beatty Library

Patricia Donlon

Commonage Division

John O'Mahony

Question:

171 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his plans to take account of the special circumstances of a small number of farmers (details supplied) in the Owenduff, Nephin Beg area of County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35021/11]

My Department and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine administer the arrangements that regulate sheep grazing in the Owenduff/Nephin Complex SPA and cSAC. These arrangements have been in place for the past five years and terminated on the 31st October 2011. Farmers in commonages which have not recovered sufficiently to meet cross-compliance standards were notified in writing of the continuation of restrictions for a further two years (until November 2013) but at reduced levels.

I am advised that parts of the Owenduff/Nephin commonages are showing satisfactory recovery but approximately half of the SPA has not recovered to a sufficient extent to meet the judgment of the European Court of Justice in relation to overgrazing in this SPA. In 19 of the 40 townlands where restrictions previously existed the restrictions have been removed; in 14 of the townlands there is an ongoing but reduced restriction; and in 7 of the 40 townlands there is an ongoing but reduced restriction in parts of the commonages.

This new proposal will mean an increase in the numbers of sheep that can be carried on the commonages for the next two years, within sustainable parameters. This proposal also removes the capping of sheep numbers at farm level. Farmers can now increase their flock numbers on the in-bye land, provided that Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition standards are adhered to and commonage limits are not exceeded.

Compensation for losses in income, where restrictions still apply, will be paid through the NPWS Farm Plan Scheme and through top-ups to REPS and AEOS. These payments will be funded entirely from the national exchequer.

In summary, partial restrictions will continue for two years to deliver vegetative recovery in these commonages and to ensure that all farmers are compliant with cross-compliance and Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition standards. The issue of financial assistance is being examined in the light of Departmental budgets.

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

172 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which currently exist within his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of each, listing in particular full name, location, the total amount of funding allocated to each in 2011 and total staff number; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since he took office, and the total amount of savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of budget 2012; if he will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying in particular their annual running costs, primary function, and staff number in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within his Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34894/11]

I can inform the Deputy that the Bodies under the aegis of my Department are set out in Table 1. This table lists full name of each Body, its location, the total amount of Exchequer funding to each Body (where applicable) in 2011 and whole time equivalent staff numbers as at 30 September 2011.

I can further inform the Deputy that the number of Bodies under the remit of my Department has been cut by 9 through merger or abolition since the formation of my Department in 2007 as set out in the Table 2.

Proposals for further restructuring of Bodies under my remit are being considered by Government in the context of the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure and further information will be made available in due course.

Table 1

Body

Location

Exchequer Funding 2011 — €m

WTE Staff Numbers @ 30/09/2011

Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI)

2-5 Warrington Place, Dublin 2

33

Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg)

Block DEF, Abbey Court, Irish Life Centre, Lower Abbey St., Dublin 1

120

Commission for Energy Regulation (CER)

The Exchange, Belgard Square North, Tallaght, Dublin 24

71

Digital Hub Development Agency (DHDA)

Digital Exchange, Crane St., The Digital Hub, Dublin 8

3.495

13

Loughs Agency (North-South Body)

22 Victoria Road, Derry BT47 2AB

2.819

56

Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI)

Swords Business Campus, Balheary Road, Swords, Co. Dublin

25.798

346

National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA)

7 Clanwilliam Square, Grand Canal Quay, Dublin 2

6

Ordnance Survey Ireland (OSi)

Ordnance Survey Road, Phoenix Park, Dublin 8

7.451

273

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI)

Wilton Park House, Wilton Place, Dublin 2

8.968

61

An Post

General Post Office, O’Connell St., Dublin 1

8,852

Bord Gáis Éireann

Gasworks Road, Cork

1,149

Bord na Móna

Main St., Newbridge, Co. Kildare

2,200

EirGrid

The Oval, 160 Shelbourne Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4

317

ESB

ESB Head Office, 27 Lower Fitzwilliam St., Dublin 2

6,235

Irish National Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (INPC)

7 Clanwilliam Square, Grand Canal Quay, Dublin 2

0

Raidió Teilifís Éireann

Donnybrook, Dublin 4

1,986

Teilifís na Gaeilge

Baile na hAbhann, Co. na Gaillimhe

81

Table 2

Restructuring since establishment of Department in June 2007

Current Status/Savings

1. Abolish The National Salmon Commission

Abolished on the enactment of the Inland Fisheries Act 2010. No Exchequer spending was incurred in relation to the National Salmon Commission in either 2009 or 2010.

2. Merge BCI and BCC

BCI and BCC were dissolved under the Broadcasting Act 2009 and subsumed into the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland. The BAI is now a levy based organisation and is not funded by the Exchequer. The last full year of Exchequer funding in 2008 amounted to €6.5m.

3. Merge Regional Fisheries Boards

Merger took effect on 1 July 2010 on the establishment of Inland Fisheries Ireland following the enactment of the Inland Fisheries Ireland Act 2010. Direct Exchequer funding for Inland Fisheries Ireland was reduced by €2.582 million in 2010 compared to 2009 and there was a further €0.749 million reduction in 2011 although not all of this is attributable to savings arising from restructuring of the inland fisheries sector.

Fisheries Conservation

Joe Carey

Question:

173 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the species of fish that may currently be harvested by driftnet on the River Fergus, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34959/11]

No commercial fishing is permitted on the River Fergus, County Clare. In accordance with the Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme (No. 2) Regulations 2010 (S.I. No. 665 of 2010) and the Conservation of Salmon and Sea Trout (Closed Rivers) Bye-law No. C.S. 306 of 2010, the river is closed to salmon and sea trout fishing during the 2011 season, given the status of stocks.

It is not expected that this will change for the 2012 season. The Deputy will be aware that I recently announced a 30 day public consultation process on the Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme (No. 2) Regulations 2011 and associated conservation measures, which will inform the management of the wild salmon and sea trout fishery for 2012, based on the scientific and management advice provided by Inland Fisheries Ireland. Details are available on my Department's website (http://www.dcenr.gov.ie/Natural/Inland+Fisheries/).

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

174 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the names of all persons nominated by him or by a Minister of State at his Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34980/11]

I can inform the Deputy that there are 18 State bodies under the aegis of my Department. Of these there are 15 whose boards are appointed in whole in or in part by the Minister and /or the Government. The table beneath details the information requested on board positions, which have been filled since 9 March 2011 taking into consideration requirements and qualifications set out in legislation governing the body, where applicable.

Body

Appointee

Date of Appointment

An Post

Mr Donal Connell

14/08/2011 (CEO of An Post — reappointed to Board).

Mr James Wrynn

15/09/2011

Mr Paul Henry

15/09/2011

Bord na Móna

Ms Denise Cronin

15/09/2011

EirGrid

Dr Gary Healy

15/09/2011

Ms Regina Moran

15/09/2011

Mr Liam O’Halloran

15/09/2011

Ms Bride Rosney

15/09/2011

ESB

Ms Noreen Wright

28/06/2011

Mr Seamus Mallon

Reappointed — 03/05/2011

Irish National Petroleum Corporation

Mr Sean Fitzgerald

Reappointed 01/06/2011

Mr Vincent Caffrey

Reappointed 01/06/2011

Ms Aoife MacEvilly (DCENR)

11/04/2011

National Oil Reserves Agency

Ms Aoife MacEvilly (DCENR)

11/04/2011

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland

Ms Julie O’Neill

15/09/2011

Mr Michael Conlon

15/09/2011

Fishing Licences

Gerald Nash

Question:

175 Deputy Gerald Nash asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if Inland Fisheries Ireland plan to introduce coarse fishing licences or permits; if Inland Fisheries Ireland have been in contact with him on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35103/11]

My Department, in consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland, is in the course of reviewing the existing provisions of the Fisheries Acts dating back to 1959 with a view to producing one consolidated and modernised piece of legislation for the inland fisheries sector, including the licensing regime. Once the review is completed, Inland Fisheries Ireland will be in a position to make recommendations to me on future licensing regimes for all types of fishing including that referred to in the Deputy's question, in the context of any proposed legislation.

Grant Payments

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

176 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide adequate financial and HR support to organisations in situations where cuts that he makes to funding of community and voluntary groups results in redundancies. [35097/11]

There are 52 Local Development Companies contracted, on my Department's behalf, to deliver a number of programmes throughout the country, these companies are private limited companies. In this context my Department has no role in the staffing or HR structures of these companies and any decisions relating to their staffing structure are the sole responsibility of the individual development company.

All funding decisions regarding programmes delivered by my Department will be made in the context of the overall national budgetary situation and will be addressed as part of the estimates process.

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

177 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which currently exist within his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of each, listing in particular full name, location, the total amount of funding allocated to each in 2011 and total staff number; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since he took office, and the total amount of savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of Budget 2012; if he will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying in particular their annual running costs, primary function, and staff number in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within his Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34896/11]

As part of a rigorous appraisal of the State Agencies under the aegis of my Department, I announced, in October, 2011, further measures in relation to the rationalisation programme with the overall number of agencies being reduced from 21 to 12. The Agencies under the aegis of my Department, their location, the number of Whole Time Equivalent staff and details of exchequer funding as of end September 2011 are outlined in the following table:

Name of Body

Location

WTE Quarter 3 2011

Allocation 2011€

1

An Bord Pleanála

64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1

159.4

12,829,000

2

Building Regulations Advisory Board

C/o Building Standards Unit, Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, Custom House, Dublin 1

0

20,000

3

An Chomhairle Leabharlanna

53/54 Upper Mount Street, Dublin 2

14.9

0.00

4

Comhar

Floor 2, Block 7, Irish Life Centre, Abbey Street, Dublin 1

0

458,500

5

Dublin Docklands Development Authority

Custom House Quay, Docklands, Dublin 1

18

0.00

6

Environmental Protection Agency

EPA Headquarters, PO Box 300, Johnstown Castle Estate, Co Wexford

323.7

19,796,000

7

Housing Finance Agency

46 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2

11

0.00

8

Housing & Sustainable Communities Agency

2nd Floor, Cumberland House, Fenian St., Dublin 2

38.2

1,800,000

9

Irish Water Safety

The Long Walk, Galway

6

512,000

10

Limerick Northside Regeneration Agency

Watch House Cross, Shopping Centre, Moyross, Limerick

8

9,000,000*

11

Limerick Southside Regeneration Agency

Units 12-14B, LEPD, Roxboro Road, Limerick

8

12

Local Government Computer Services Board (now part of LGMA)

Local Government House, 35-39 Usher’s Quay, Dublin 8

77.8

0.00

13

Local Government Management Services Board (now part of LGMA)

Local Government House, 35 — 39 Usher’s Quay, Dublin 8

27.5

0.00

14

National Building Agency (will be subsumed into HSCA)

Housing and Sustainable Communities Agency, 2nd Floor, Cumberland House, Fenian St., Dublin 2

3.8

1,500,000

15

National Traveller Accomodation Consultative Committee

Custom House, Dublin 1

0

28,000

16

Private Residential Tenancies Board

PO Box 11884, Dublin 2

55.4

0.00

17

Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland

3 Clonskeagh Square, Dublin 14

46.2

3,323,000

18

Western Development Commission

Dillon House, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon

13.4

660,000

*The allocation with respect to the Limerick Regeneration Agencies refers to Capital funding provided for projects.

An Chomhairle Leabharlanna will be dissolved, with any key residual functions to be subsumed into an existing public body.

The Housing and Sustainable Communities Agency (HSCA) has been established and is operating on an administrative basis. It rationalises the functions of the National Building Agency (NBA), the Affordable Homes Partnership (AHP) and the Centre for Housing Research (CHR). The AHP and the CHR have been closed down and the NBA is in the process of being wound down.

The Local Government Management Services Board and the Local Government Computer Services Board are merging as the Local Government Management Agency. Pending necessary legislation, a common board and Chief Executive have been put in place on an interim basis and joint management arrangements are being implemented. The rationalisation process includes the closure of regional offices in Limerick and Waterford and other non-pay savings have been achieved by rationalising the use of products and services such as software licensing, hardware infrastructure, phone systems etc.

The Limerick Northside and Southside Regeneration Agencies are being serviced by a single executive, and resources freed up through this are being used to deliver the Phase 1 implementation plans for Limerick Regeneration. (The agencies' roles will be replaced through the development of a joint management arrangement in 2012 for Limerick City and Limerick County Council as a step to the merger of the two Councils).

The functions of the Fire Services Council have been subsumed into my Department.

The sustainable development role performed by Comhar, the Sustainable Development Council, is to be integrated into the National Economic and Social Council (NESC).

The administrative functions of the Rent Tribunal have transferred to the Private Residential Tenancies Board.

Pobal, is a not-for-profit company with charitable status, which manages programmes on behalf of the Irish Government and the EU.

The Dormant Accounts Board operated with Departmental administrative support. The Dormant Accounts Board (Amendment) Bill 2011 proposes to dissolve the Dormant Accounts Board.

Deliberations on Budget 2012 are ongoing, and the agency rationalisation/efficiency agenda is being kept under review insofar as all agencies under my Department's aegis are concerned.

Proposed Legislation

Emmet Stagg

Question:

178 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will review and amend the legislation that prevents local authorities from publishing the names of those who have been successfully prosecuted under the terms of the Litter Act; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34921/11]

The Data Protection Commissioner has indicated to my Department that actions taken by local authorities in publishing the names and addresses of persons fined or convicted as a result of littering or illegal dumping, whether by publication on their websites or by notices published in the local press and paid for by the local authority, would be in breach of the principles of data protection. These principles are contained in the Data Protection Act 1988 as amended by the Data Protection (Amendment) Act 2003, and in particular, by Section 2A of that Act. Data Protection legislation is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Justice and Equality.

My Department is currently examining whether an amendment could be made to the Litter Pollution Act, which would address the issues raised by the Data Protection Commissioner, while allowing for the publication of the names and addresses of those convicted under the Act.

Fire Stations

John McGuinness

Question:

179 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to provide adequate funding to upgrade the Tallaght fire station, Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34958/11]

The provision of fire services in local authority areas, including the establishment and maintenance of fire brigades, the assessment of fire cover needs and the provision of premises, is a statutory function of the individual fire authorities under the provisions of the Fire Services Act 1981. My Department supports the fire authorities through setting general policy, providing a central training programme, issuing guidance on operational and other related matters and capital funding for infrastructural projects.

I recently indicated that support of €300,000 from my Department's fire services capital programme would be made available, as an exceptional measure, to supplement funding announced by Dublin City Council to upgrade facilities at Tallaght fire Station.

Given the current constraints on public finances, continued investment in the fire appliance fleet has been identified as a key national priority for the available capital funds. In that context, I have approved a new programme of joint procurement of 17 fire appliances which will involve fire authorities working together to aggregate demand and provide value for money.

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

180 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the names of all persons nominated by him or by a Minister of State at his Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34983/11]

I have made the following appointments since I took office:

Agency / Board

Name of Appointee

An Bord Pleanála

Dr. Mary Kelly (Chairperson)

Building Regulation Advisory Board (BRAB)

Mr. Aidan O’Connor (Departmental Representative)

BRAB

Mr. Paul Kelly

EPA

Ms. Laura Burke (Director General)

RPII

Dr Maurice Fitzgerald, reappointed (nominee of the Dental council)

The Boards of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and An Bord Pleanala are executive in nature and members are employed on a full time salaried basis. The appointments as Chairperson of An Bord Pleanála and Director General of the EPA were made by Government after competitions held by the Public Appointments Service. On 10 November 2011, I nominated Professor William Reville to the position of Chairman of the Board of the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland. Before being formally appointed, Professor Reville will appear before the Oireachtas Committee on Environment, Transport, Culture and Gaeltacht on the 23 November 2011 to discuss the approach which he will take to his role as Chairperson.

The following members were appointed to the Board of Pobal, a not for profit company under the aegis of my Department, by Government on 14 October 2011:

Mr. Séamus Boland (Chair)

Mr. Thomas Maguire

Mr. Liam Keane

Ms. Siobhan McLoughlin

No other persons have been nominated for appointments to state Boards by any Minister at my Department.

Waste Management

Brendan Griffin

Question:

181 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will consider the views of a business person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35006/11]

The Programme for Government includes a commitment to introduce competitive tendering for household waste collection, whereby service providers would bid to provide waste collection services in a given area, for a given period of time and to a guaranteed level of service. This system is known as franchise bidding.

A public consultation designed to inform the policy development process concluded in September. A large number of responses were received, including many from the waste collection industry which raise points similar to those mentioned in the correspondence referred to, such as the potentially adverse impact of franchise bidding on waste collection firms and the benefits of ongoing competition in the current system of side-by-side competition. Other responses point to the possible significant savings for householders and the potential for improved environmental outcomes if franchise bidding were to be introduced. I intend to publish all of the responses received on my Department's website shortly.

The responses are currently being examined and I intend to conclude examination of the issue before the end of the year. All policy proposals will be carefully considered by Government, which will take account of the full range of issues and perspectives.

Grant Payments

Paschal Donohoe

Question:

182 Deputy Paschal Donohoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when a group (details supplied) will receive payment for the LEADER grant contract they were approved considering that equipment has been ordered based on their approval; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35007/11]

Paschal Donohoe

Question:

183 Deputy Paschal Donohoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when a group (details supplied) will receive payment for the grant contract they were approved considering that the group took out a bridging loan, with personal guarantees, based on the funding contract approved by LEADER; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35008/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 182 and 183 together.

Meitheal Forbartha na Gaeltachta (MFG) was contracted by my Department to deliver two programmes in Gaeltacht areas, the Rural Development Programme (RDP) Axes 3 and 4, and the Local and Community Development Programme (LCDP). MFG also implemented other programmes on behalf of other Government Departments.

I understand the difficulty that the recent dissolution of this company is having on project promoters in Gaeltacht areas and I am sympathetic to this situation; however, it is my Department's responsibility to ensure that any solution arrived at will maintain the continued effective delivery of services in Gaeltacht areas previously supplied by MFG. Potential solutions must also be compliant with the relevant national and EU regulations and frameworks.

There are complex legal and contractual issues in regard to MFG to be resolved and my Department is currently working on both long and short term solutions to ensure the continued delivery of the RDP and other programmes in Gaeltacht areas, including those in Co Mayo. My intention is to find a solution that will be efficient and effective and applied at the earliest possible opportunity.

Social and Affordable Housing

Jack Wall

Question:

184 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will issue policy guidelines and directives to local authorities to enable them, when allocating accommodation, to take account of persons who have separated permanently. [35016/11]

Regulation 22 of Social Housing Assessment Regulations 2011 provides that an applicant household for long-term social housing support is ineligible for social housing support if a household member owns alternative accommodation that it could reasonably be expected to use to meet its housing need, either by occupying it or by selling it and using the proceeds to secure suitable accommodation. For this reason, if either member of a separated couple applies, local authorities require evidence of legal separation or divorce before considering a household's eligibility for long-term social housing support, as the separation agreement will provide certainty regarding ownership of property. Authorities are aware of these provisions and take account of them when making decisions on social housing assessment applications.

Allocation of accommodation must be carried out in accordance with authorities' Allocation Schemes, the making of which is a reserved function of elected members of housing authorities.

Water Pollution

James Bannon

Question:

185 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the reason there was no investigation carried out into the leaking of oil into the Camlin river, County Longford, by a commercial entity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35029/11]

The investigation of the incident referred to in the Question is a matter for the local authority, in this case, Longford County Council.

Private Housing Developments

Simon Harris

Question:

186 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding the numbering of houses in private developments in view of the difficulties that can be faced by emergency responders in locating houses which are unnumbered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35059/11]

Under Section 34 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, planning authorities may attach conditions to planning permissions in relation to appropriate naming and numbering of, and the provision of appropriate signage for, proposed developments.

Social and Affordable Housing

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

187 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the levels of social housing he expects to provide in 2012; if it is the case that even a portion of the spend currently spent on rent supplement could provide for a vigorous new social housing programme to address the housing waiting lists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35079/11]

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

188 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the social housing targets for 2012; the number of the 100,000 families and persons on the housing list he intends to have rehoused; the reason there are still large numbers waiting on housing lists for four or five years or more; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35080/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 187 and 188 together.

Details of the expected social housing targets for 2012 will be provided as part of the announcement of budget allocations for housing authorities which will be made as early as possible in 2012.

The Housing Needs Assessment carried out in March 2011 shows that the numbers of applicants on the lists for 4 years or longer has increased from just over 10,000 in 2008 to over 24,000 in 2011, and from 18% of total net need in 2008 to 25% of total net need in 2011. The number of those on the list for longer than 4 years increased by 134% in the three years, compared with an increase of 75% in the list as a whole. There are likely to be many contributory factors to the increase and these may vary from one authority to another. As part of the review of allocation schemes I have indicated my intention to provide for a move towards a "time on the list" approach in the future to address at least one of the contributory factors.

It is not the case that diverting funding from rent supplement would enable a more vigorous social housing programme. For every new unit acquired or constructed through such a transfer support for 20 or more households on rent supplement would have to be withdrawn. The capital programme would not be in a position to absorb the additional volume of households thus requiring social housing.

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

189 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which currently exist within his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of each, listing in particular full name, location, the total amount of funding allocated to each in 2011 and total staff number; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since he took office, and the total amount of savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of budget 2012; if he will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying in particular their annual running costs, primary function, and staff number in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within his Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34901/11]

I wish to inform the Deputy that it has not been possible to provide the information required in the time available. The information is currently being collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it is to hand.

Citizenship Applications

Martin Ferris

Question:

190 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when a decision will be made on an application for naturalisation in respect of a person (details supplied). [34951/11]

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 August 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.

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.

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from INIS is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.

Garda Vetting of Personnel

Martin Ferris

Question:

191 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when a decision will issue on a vetting application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry. [34952/11]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that it is not possible to check the status of an application for Garda vetting in the absence of a date of birth. Notwithstanding that, I am further informed that no vetting application in the name of the person referred to by the Deputy has been received from any organisation registered with the Garda Central Vetting Unit (GCVU). In the circumstances, the person should seek clarification from the organisation in question.

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

192 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the names of all persons nominated by him to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34974/11]

Dara Calleary

Question:

195 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the names of all persons nominated by him or by a Minister of State at his Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34988/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 192 and 195 together.

I wish to inform the Deputy that it has not been possible to provide the information required in the time available. The information is currently being collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it is to hand.

Judicial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

193 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will outline all judicial appointments made by him since 9 March 2011. [34975/11]

I wish to advise the Deputy that Judges are appointed by the President on the advice of the Government. Such appointments are dealt with by the Judicial Appointments Advisory Board which was established pursuant to the Courts and Court Officers Act 1995. Under section 16 of the Act, where a judicial office stands vacant or before a vacancy in a judicial office arises, the Advisory Board submits to me, as Minister for Justice and Equality, the names of all persons who have informed the Advisory Board of their wish to be considered for appointment to that vacancy and the names of at least seven persons whom it recommends for appointment. I then bring the names to Government. Section 17 of the same Act provides that these procedures shall not apply where the Government propose to advise the President to appoint a serving judge.

Since 9 March 2011, the following persons have been nominated by the Government for appointment by the President.

Name

Position

Susan Denham

Chief Justice

Michael White

Judge of the High Court

Kevin Cross S.C.

Judge of the High Court

Thomas O’Donnell

Judge of the Circuit Court

Rosemary Horgan

Judge of the District Court

Michael P. Coghlan

Judge of the District Court

Patrick Durcan

Judge of the District Court

Gráinne Malone

Judge of the District Court

Prison Visiting Committees

Dara Calleary

Question:

194 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the completion date of the mandate for the visiting committee of each prison; his plans for the future appointment of such committees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34976/11]

A Visiting Committee is appointed to each prison under the Prisons (Visiting Committees) Act, 1925 and Prisons (Visiting Committees) Order, 1925. There are currently 14 Visiting Committees — one for each institution.

While dates of appointment vary, members of Committees are appointed by the Minister for Justice and Equality for a term not exceeding three years. At the end of their term, their membership of the Committee automatically lapses but they may be either re-appointed for a further term or replaced by new members.

As for the future, I announced plans some time ago to strengthen the independent oversight of our prisons. Under new legislation to be prepared, I intend to make Visiting Committees more effective while they continue their role of visiting prisons, meeting with prisoners, and liaising on their behalf with prison authorities. The arrangements for membership of the Committees will be changed and a link will be established between the Visiting Committees and the Inspector of Prisons.

Question No. 195 answered with Question No. 192.

Prison Building Programme

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

196 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the capital allocation funding that will be given to the prison service building programme for specific use on Cork Prison. [34993/11]

As I announced last week, the Government remains very much committed to addressing the twin problems of overcrowding and poor physical conditions particularly in Mountjoy and Cork prisons.

Since my announcement of its 2012 Capital Allocation (€24.1 million), the Irish Prison Service has commenced work on developing a five year strategy for the continued enhancement of the prison estate including the provision of in-cell sanitation. While it is not possible at this time to be specific on the funding for use in respect of Cork prison, I can assure the Deputy that the need to improve conditions there will form a significant element of the Prison Service's strategy.

Prison Accommodation

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

197 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to end over-crowding at Cork Prison and Mountjoy Prison, Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34994/11]

As of 14 November, 2011, there were a total of 4,257 prisoners in custody and 799 on temporary release. The number on temporary release equates to 15% of the total prisoner population.

There has been a consistent increase in the total prisoner population in Ireland over recent years, with dramatic increases in the number of sentenced prisoners, those being committed on remand and a trend towards longer sentences. The problem of prison overcrowding therefore remains a challenging issue which unfortunately cannot be resolved overnight.

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. Whilst the reduced capital envelope this year will not allow the Prison Service to proceed with the construction of Thornton Hall or Kilworth prisons, this does not signal a reversal of the Government's decision earlier this year to approve in principle the recommendations contained in the Thornton Hall Review Group Report. It has been necessary to defer the commencement of these projects but the Deputy can be assured that it is my strong intention to revisit the timeframe for their delivery in 12 months time.

In the meantime, despite a reduction in the capital allocation available to the Prison Service in 2012, work will continue on the completion of a new 300 space prison wing in the Midlands Prison and it is expected that these spaces will be fully commissioned by mid 2012. The Prison Service will also continue with the refurbishment and in-cell sanitation project in Mountjoy Prison. The upgrade of the C Division of the prison is close to completion and will radically improve the existing physical conditions, including the provision of in-cell sanitation and the upgrading of fire safety and detection systems. In 2012, the Irish Prison Service plans to undertake a similar renovation of the B Division in the prison. This will result in 317 cells in Mountjoy prison having in-cell sanitation by the end of that year, almost 60% of the total prison.

I am also continuing to pursue alternatives to custody and progress is being made. The recently enacted Criminal Justice (Community Service) (Amendment) Act 2011 requires the sentencing judge to consider the imposition of community service where a custodial sentence of 12 months or less is being considered.

A number of key recommendations contained in the Thornton Hall Review Group Report are also receiving priority attention in my Department and many are in the process of being implemented most notably the introduction of an incentivised scheme for earned temporary release under which offenders who pose no threat to the community are offered early temporary release in return for supervised community service. In this regard, a six month pilot project commenced in October 2011 in which it is envisaged that a total of 130 prisoners will participate. To date, 16 prisoners have been released under the scheme with a further 14 due for release this week. I also intend to give new guidelines to the Parole Board for the application of a similar scheme to long-term prisoners. I expect to make further announcements about the implementation of these reforms later in the year.

The Fines Act 2010 introduced measures to prevent the automatic imprisonment of fine defaulters. I intend to bring forward new legislative proposals to introduce a system of "attachment orders" allowing a small amount of money to be taken from wages or social welfare facilitating the payment of the debt or fine over time. The concept of restorative justice also has a place in the range of non-custodial options which are available for use by the courts. The Deputy can be assured that my focus is to encourage the use of such options to the greatest extent possible.

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

198 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to address the living conditions of the 40% persons imprisoned in Mountjoy Prison, Dublin, who will still be without in-cell sanitation facilities by the end of 2012. [34995/11]

I can inform the Deputy that 72% of prisoner accommodation has in-cell sanitation at present. This will rise to approximately 80% when the extension currently under construction in the Midlands Prison is opened in 2012.

A refurbishment project in the C-wing at Mountjoy Prison is nearing completion and will result in all cells on that wing having in-cell sanitation. Depending on the findings of a post project appraisal, the Irish Prison Service will consider installing in-cell sanitation facilities in the remaining cells in Mountjoy and indeed to other facilities that do not have in-cell sanitation. I am committed to ending the practice of slopping out within the prison system, however, any project to provide in-cell sanitation to the remaining wings in Mountjoy or indeed in any other facility will, of course, be subject to the availability of financial resources.

Prison Education Service

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

199 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to improve education and training facilities in each of the prisons in the State. [34996/11]

The Irish Prison Service places a strong emphasis on the provision of education, work and training for prisoners with a wide range of education classes and training workshops available across the prison estate. The Irish Prison Service will continue to improve services available to prisoners insofar as resources allow.

In this regard, a number of projects are currently under way which will improve the facilities available. A significant programme of works is nearing completion in the Dóchas Centre where, in addition to improving the overall standard of the Centre, will provide for additional training workshops and a new training kitchen. At the Midlands prison, as part of the new accommodation block to be fully commissioned in 2012, additional work training and educational facilities are being provided. It will also include a new fully fitted kitchen which will provide enhanced training opportunities for prisoners.

The Irish Prison Service continues to develop its IT facilities in the prison schools which will enhance prisoner educational opportunities. An in-cell education pilot project to allow prisoners continue their classroom learning is also being introduced in St Patrick's Institution and Wheatfield prison.

I am further informed by the Irish Prison Service that, as the prison estate is developed by new building projects or by refurbishment of the existing estate, education and training facilities will be enhanced to the greatest extent that resources will allow.

Irish Prison Service

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

200 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will clarify whether the Irish Prison Service within its capital allocation budget for development of key prison related IT projects, will develop projects to improve training facilities for prisoners or if they are solely for the running of the prison system. [34997/11]

I can inform the Deputy that the Irish Prison Service has assigned part of its 2012 capital allocation for the development of a number of key systems designed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the management of the prisoner population and to enhance facilities for prisoners.

The Irish Prison Service continues to develop IT facilities in the prison schools which will enhance prisoner educational opportunities. An in-cell education pilot project to allow prisoners continue their classroom learning is also being introduced in St Patrick's Institution and Wheatfield prison.

In addition, a number of other IT projects are being rolled out including:

a new prisoner records system;

an extended prisoner medical system;

a new prisoner cash and gratuity system;

an extended integrated sentence management system;

extended video conferencing to reduce the need for prisoners to attend court for short duration appearances;

an extended visitor system; and

online booking of prison visits.

Prison Building Programme

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

201 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views that there will be an increase in the Justice Capital Investment Programme after 12 months time; the basis for his revisiting the timeframe for delivery of Thornton Hall prison in 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34998/11]

The capital allocation to the Justice sector for 2012 is €56 million. The largest single allocation of this, €24.1million, will be allocated to the Prisons Service and spent on the prisons building programme. Despite the challenging economic climate, it is my intention to use a large portion of these funds to improve the situation in our prisons.

This Government remains committed to addressing overcrowding and poor physical conditions within the prison estate. Whilst the reduced capital envelope this year will not allow the Prison Service to proceed with the construction of Thornton Hall or Kilworth prisons, this does not signal a reversal of the Government's decision earlier this year to approve in principle the recommendations contained in the Thornton Hall Review Group Report. It has been necessary to defer the commencement of these projects but the Deputy can be assured that it is my strong intention to revisit the timeframe for their delivery in 12 months time.

In the meantime, within its 2012 capital allocation, work will continue on the completion of a new 300 space prison wing in the Midlands Prison. It is expected that these spaces will be fully commissioned by mid 2012. The refurbishment and in-cell sanitation project in Mountjoy Prison will also continue. The upgrade of the C Division of the prison is close to completion and will very much improve the existing physical conditions, including the provision of in-cell sanitation and the upgrading of fire safety and detection systems. It is also intended to undertake a similar renovation of the B Division in the prison. This will result in 317 cells in Mountjoy prison having in-cell sanitation by the end of that year, almost 60% of the total prison.

The Irish Prison Service also intends to complete a number of infrastructural works to which it is already committed including the development of key prison related IT projects, the upgrading of fire detection systems and the enhancement of CCTV security systems.

Prisoner Releases

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

202 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of prisoners who have benefited from early release in each of the past five years; and the categories of offences for which they served their sentences. [34999/11]

As the Deputy is aware, periods of temporary release granted can vary greatly from a few hours following a family bereavement to, for example, a requirement to report to the prison every 12 months in the case of a life sentenced prisoner who has been released into the community a considerable time ago.

Most prisoners will benefit from temporary release at some stage but it is not possible to provide the Deputy with the specific information requested as this would require the manual examination of records. Such an examination would require a disproportionate and inordinate amount of staff time and effort and could not be justified in current circumstances where there are other significant demands on resources.

However, I can provide the Deputy with statistics on the average number of prisoners on temporary release from 2006 to 2010:-

Year

Number

2010

732

2009

535

2008

273

2007

153

2006

140

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

203 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of prisoners who he expects will benefit from early release in each of the next two years. [35000/11]

I wish to inform the Deputy that it is not possible to forecast how many prisoners will benefit from temporary release in each of the next two years. I can, however, advise that on Monday, 14 November 2011, 799 prisoners were on temporary release. The number on temporary release equates to 15% of the total prison population.

The Criminal Justice Act 1960, as amended by the Criminal Justice (Temporary Release of Prisoners) Act 2003 provides that sentenced prisoners may be approved temporary release. This discretionary instrument assists in gradually preparing suitable offenders for release and in administering short sentences, and is an incentive to well-behaved prisoners.

Temporary release arrangements operate similarly to a system of parole, which is a feature of prison systems worldwide. They are an important vehicle for re-integrating an offender into the community in a planned way. The generally accepted view is that the risk to the community is reduced by planned re-integration of offenders compared with their return to the community on the completion of their full sentence. The Irish Prison Service has also judiciously used temporary release as a means of reducing numbers in times of serious overcrowding. Each case is examined on its own merits and the safety of the public is paramount when decisions are made. In addition, all releases are subject to conditions, which in the vast majority of cases include a requirement to report on a regular basis to the offender's Garda Station. Of course, any offender who breaches his or her conditions may be arrested and returned to prison immediately by the Gardaí.

I might mention that a number of key recommendations contained in the Thornton Hall Review Group Report are receiving priority attention in my Department and many are in the process of being implemented most notably the introduction of an incentivised scheme for earned temporary release under which offenders who pose no threat to the community are offered early temporary release in return for supervised community service. In this regard, a six month pilot project commenced in October 2011 in which it is envisaged that a total of 130 prisoners will participate. To date, 16 prisoners have been released under the scheme with a further 14 due for release this week.

I also intend to give new guidelines to the Parole Board for the application of a similar scheme to long-term prisoners. I expect to make further announcements about the implementation of these reforms later in the year.

Penal Policy Review Group

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

204 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason for establishing a Penal Policy Review Group; if he will provide the group’s terms of reference; the way this group will differ from the Sub-Committee on Penal Reform of the Justice, Defence and Equality Committee; the date on which it will be established; the names of the persons who will be appointed to the Committee; the mechanism used to choose them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35001/11]

In April 2011 I established the Thornton Hall Review Group. They reported to me in July 2011 and one of their recommendations was the establishment of an all encompassing strategic review of penal policy which would incorporate an examination and analysis of all aspects of penal policy including prevention, sentencing policies, alternatives to custody, accommodation and regimes, support for reintegration and rehabilitation, the issue of female prisoners and 16 and 17 year olds within the system. I intend to establish a group to give effect to that recommendation. Details of the group will be announced shortly.

I am aware that the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality have established a Sub-Committee on Penal Reform to analyse the recommendations of the Review Group in respect of non-custodial alternatives to imprisonment — in particular back-door strategies which involve some form of early release. The Order of 8 June 2011 establishing the Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality gives it the power to appoint such sub-Committees who can invite submissions and draft recommendations for legislative change.

Mental Health Services

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

205 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the date on which he will establish an interdepartmental group to consider the issue of persons with mental illness coming into the criminal justice system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35002/11]

The designation of a group to examine the issue of people with mental illness coming into the criminal justice system is in line with the recommendations of the Thornton Hall Review Group which were approved by Government last July.

My officials are consulting with the Department of Health on the arrangements involved including the terms of reference and an announcement will be made shortly.

Asylum Support Services

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

206 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason a person (details supplied) in County Wexford was moved to Cork; if he will facilitate their return to County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35017/11]

The Reception and Integration Agency (RIA) of the Department of Justice and Equality is responsible for the accommodation of asylum seekers in accordance with the Government policy of direct provision.

RIA no longer operates an accommodation centre in County Wexford and therefore cannot facilitate the return of the person cited in this question to that county. The person had been accommodated in the Old Rectory asylum accommodation centre, New Ross, County Wexford, which was under contract to RIA to provide direct provision accommodation services to asylum seekers from 19 February, 2001 to its closure on 25 October, 2011. Residents of the centre were relocated to alternative accommodation centres, including in Cork city.

This closure has taken place in the context of the reducing numbers of new applications for asylum over the last number of years. In line with this, the number of asylum seekers availing of direct provision accommodation has also decreased. The RIA is required to manage its accommodation portfolio to reflect this change in demand and accordingly has reduced contracted capacity through accommodation centre closures as follows: in 2008, five centres were closed; in 2009, six centres were closed; in 2010, eight centres were closed; and, to date in 2011, seven centres have been closed, including the Old Rectory centre.

Citizenship Applications

James Bannon

Question:

207 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding an application for citizenship in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35031/11]

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 January 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.

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from INIS is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.

Visa Applications

Michael Conaghan

Question:

208 Deputy Michael Conaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the visa requirements for Kuwait nationals who wish to visit family members studying or working here; his views on whether these requirements are administered in an efficient a way as possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35055/11]

It is open to any visa required national to apply for a visa for any purpose and citizens of Kuwait are no different from other visa required nationals in this regard.

I can advise that each visa application is considered on its individual merits, the onus as always resting with the applicant to establish to the satisfaction of the Visa Officer as to why the visa sought should be granted. Visa applications for Kuwaiti nationals are handled by the Irish Visa Office, Abu Dhabi. That office is an office of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (I.N.I.S.) and it handles all aspects of visa applications inclusive of appeals. In general ‘visit' visa applications for Kuwaiti nationals are considered within one — five working days of receipt. This time frame is dependent on all the required documentation being provided with no queries remaining outstanding. Applicants are advised to lodge their applications two — three weeks in advance of the proposed date of travel. At present the services of courier companies are utilised in order to return documents such as passport etc. to the applicant(s) concerned.

I am satisfied that the current visa application process is administered in an efficient manner and timely manner. However, as with all I.N.I.S. Visa Offices abroad the administrative processes and procedures remain continuously under review.

The Deputy may also wish to note that the Visa Waiver Programme applies to holders of certain types of UK short stay visas from sixteen selected countries, including Kuwait. This pilot programme allows persons who are in possession of the relevant type of UK visa and who have been granted permission to enter the UK on foot of that visa to also travel to Ireland without the need to apply for an Irish visa.

Guidelines on the visa application process for nationals of Kuwait, including details of the required supporting documentation can be found on the website — (www.embassyofireland.ae).

Road Traffic Offences

Aodhán Ó Ríordáin

Question:

209 Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of fines given to cyclists in Dublin city who have been caught breaking red lights and or cycling on pedestrian footpaths in 2010 and to date in 2011; the level of fines for cyclists caught in these acts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35084/11]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that members of An Garda Síochána enforce the law on cycling on footpaths and cyclists breaking red lights as part of their normal duties on an ongoing basis. In addition to the day to day enforcement of the relevant provisions of the Road Traffic Acts, breaches of the legislation in respect of pedal cycle behaviour are regularly targeted by way of specific Garda operations. Where breaches of legislation are detected, members of An Garda Síochána, depending on the circumstances, may deal with the incident by way of advice or caution or by initiating criminal proceedings.

Educational talks are regularly given by members of the Regional Road Safety Units through the Garda Schools Programme on road safety and road traffic legislation, including on cycling, to young people and other identified high-risk road users to encourage increased compliance.

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 enquiries made and been informed that it is not possible to provide the information in relation to fines requested by the Deputy without a disproportionate use of resources.

The penalties imposed for breaches of the law in relation to cycling offences are set out in road traffic legislation which is the responsibility of my colleague the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport.

Garda Strength

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

210 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí by rank in the Garda national drugs unit and the Criminal Assets Bureau; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35086/11]

I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of the Garda National Drugs Unit and Criminal Assets Bureau, on the latest date for which figures are readily available, as set out in the table hereunder:

Unit

C/Supt

Supt

Insp

Sgt

Garda

Total

G.N.D.U.

1

2

4

9

43

59

C.A.B.

1

1

2

5

27

36

There are also 33 civilian staff assigned to the Criminal Assets Bureau comprising the Bureau Legal Officer, Inspectors from the Revenue Commissioners and the Department of Social Protection and technical, specialist and support staff from the Department of Justice and Law Reform. There are a further 379 personnel attached to Divisional Drugs Units.

Responsibility for the allocation of resources, including personnel, within the Force rests with the Garda Commissioner, in consultation with his senior management team. Resource levels are constantly monitored, in conjunction with crime trends, and the situation is kept under continuing review to ensure optimum use is made of all resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public.

Garda Transport

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

211 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will provide an additional Garda public order unit and an additional marked Garda vehicle for a station (details supplied) in Dublin 5; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35087/11]

The allocation of Garda resources, including transport, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner and I have no direct function in the matter raised by the Deputy. The efficient deployment of Garda vehicles and other resources within each Garda Division is a matter for the Divisional Officer in the context of operational requirements.

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

212 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Defence the names of all persons nominated by him or by a Minister of State at his Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34981/11]

The Civil Defence Act 2002 provides that the Board shall consist of at least eight but not more than fourteen members who shall be appointed by the Minister for Defence. The Minister for Defence can directly appoint four persons to the Board of Civil Defence. Legislation is currently being drafted to dissolve the Civil Defence Board and transfer the functions of the Board back into the Department of Defence, and I appointed the current Board as an interim measure from 11 July 2011. The members I nominated to the interim Board in my capacity as Minister for Defence are set out in the following table:

Name

Civil Defence Board Chairperson

Mr. Brian Spain, Director, Department of Defence

Civil Defence Board Members

Mr. Cathal Duffy, Principal Officer, Department of Defence

Ms. Clare Tiernan, Principal Officer, Department of Defence

Mr. Robert Mooney, Principal Officer, Department of Defence

No other nominations have been made by the Minister of State or myself since taking office.

Departmental Staff

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

213 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide the names of agencies that provide staff to his Department; the services they provide; the cost to the State of those services, the number of staff they provide; and if he will break these details into tabular form. [35716/11]

Joan Collins

Question:

214 Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide the names of agencies that provide staff to his Department; the services they provide; the cost to the State of those services; the number of staff they provide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35719/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 213 and 214 together.

The Department sources its staff through the Public Appointments Service. There is no cost to the Department for using this service.

On-Farm Investment Schemes

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

215 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, further to Parliamentary Question No. 413 of 8 November 2011, if he will verify that the principle of force majeure has never been invoked with regard to the possibility of re-opening schemes. [34888/11]

As the EU provisions in regard to force majeure can vary from scheme to scheme, it is not possible to provide a general statement in regard to the application of the principle of force majeure which governs all schemes administered by my Department. However, the current EU provisions in regard to the application of force majeure in the case of on-farm investment schemes which are operated by my Department are clear that this facility is strictly limited to beneficiaries only and, in those cases, that the remedy is the avoidance of partial or full reimbursement of the grant-aid received by the beneficiary.

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

216 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which currently exist within his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of each, listing in particular its full name, location, the total amount of funding allocated in 2011 and the total staff number; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since he took office, and the total amount of savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of budget 2012; if he will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying in particular their annual running costs, primary functions, and staff numbers in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within his Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34891/11]

The information on State Agencies sought by the Deputy is listed in the following table. The Government will be making an announcement shortly about the reform of State agencies.

Body

Location

Function

Total Number of Staff(Full-time equivalents)

Total Amount of Central Funding for each Agency

Aquaculture Licensing Appeals Board (ALAB)

Kilminchy Court Portlaoise Co Laois

It provides an independent authority for the determination of appeals against decisions by the Minister on aquaculture licence applications.

0.251

€300,000

Bord Bia (Irish Food Board)

Clanwilliam Court Lower Mount St. Dublin 2

Acts as a link between Irish Food, Drink & Horticulture suppliers and existing and potential customers throughout the world

97

€28.392m

Bord Iascaigh Mhara

Crofton Road Dun Laoghaire Co. Dublin Or Clogheen Road Clonakilty Co. Cork

Development of the Irish seafood sector by adding value, driving growth, increasing competitiveness and creating jobs

123.8

€16.738m

Bord na gCon

Green Park Dock Road Limerick

Is responsible for the control and development of the greyhound industry in the Republic of Ireland

82

€11.460m

Coillte Teoranta

Newtownmountkennedy Co Wicklow

A commercial company operating in forestry, land based businesses, renewable energies and panel products

1053

Nil

Horse Racing Ireland

Ballymany The Curragh Co Kildare

The overall administration of Irish horse-racing

57

€45.830m

Irish National Stud

Tully Co Kildare

Management of thoroughbred industry

37

Nil

Marine Institute

Rinville Oranmore Co. Galway

The national agency responsible for Marine Research, Technology Development and Innovation (RTDI)

186.1

€24.2m

National Milk Agency

IPC House 35/39 Shelbourne Road Ballsbridge Dublin 4

Regulates the supply of milk for liquid consumption throughout the State

5

Nil

Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA)

Park Road Clogheen Clonakilty Co Cork

Ireland’s competent authority for Seafood Safety and Sea-Fisheries Protection

93.5

€10.9m

Teagasc

Headquarters Oak Park Carlow

The agriculture and food development authority

1,271

€132.156m

Veterinary Council of Ireland

53 Lansdowne Road Ballsbridge Dublin 4

To regulate the veterinary practitioner and veterinary nursing professions

3

Nil

1Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine staff.

Grant Payments

Heather Humphreys

Question:

217 Deputy Heather Humphreys asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a person (details supplied) in County Cavan will receive their single farm payment and disadvantaged area payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34908/11]

An application under the 2011 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 16 May 2011, processing of which has recently been finalised, thereby allowing the 50% advance of the Single Payment and payment under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme to issue to the applicant in the coming days.

Michael Creed

Question:

218 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a person (details supplied) in County Cork is in receipt of their full entitlement under the REP scheme 4; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34973/11]

The person named commenced REPS 4 in May 2009 and received payments for the first year of the contract. In addition, 75% of the year 2 payment issued on 21 April 2011 for the amount of €5,581.69. Following an inspection in June 2010, a 25% penalty was imposed for bovines "not excluded from watercourses" and a 35% penalty for "a water well which was unfenced". The person named unsuccessfully appealed this decision to officials in my Department in March 2011.

These penalties have now been deducted from the balancing 25% payment for 2010 with the result that the person named is not due a balancing payment and there is also an additional overpayment of €2,604.78 which must be deducted from the 2011 payment.

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

219 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the names of all persons nominated by him or by a Minister of State at his Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34977/11]

As the Deputy may be aware I can nominate and appoint people as Chairs for a number of the State Agencies under my Department's remit. In April 2011, I appointed Phil Meaney as Chair of Bord na gCon and in October I appointed Michael Carey as Chair of Bord Bia. In October, I also nominated five people for appointment by the Minister for Health to the Poisons Council as provided as provided under Section 4(1) of the Poisons Act 1961: Caroline Garvan, Gabriel Beechinor, Dermot Sheridan, Diarmuid Lynch and Billy Nicholson.

Grant Payments

Pat Breen

Question:

220 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35104/11]

An application under the 2011 Single Payment/Disadvantaged Areas Schemes was received from the person named on 21 April 2011. Processing of these applications has recently been finalised thereby allowing payment to issue to the applicant under both schemes in the coming days.

Tom Fleming

Question:

221 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the agri-environmental options scheme payment will be forwarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry. [35168/11]

The person named was approved for participation in the Agri-Environment Options Scheme with effect from the 1st 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. During these checks a discrepancy was discovered in respect of one parcel listed on the application of the person named. A letter issued to the person named requesting clarification of the area on this specific parcel. Officials in my Department are awaiting a response to this letter and on receipt of clarification regarding the matter the file will be further processed.

Departmental Staff

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

222 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide the names of agencies which provide staff to his Department; the services they provide; the cost to the State of these services, the numbers of staff they provide; and if he will break down these details into tabular form. [35715/11]

It is not possible to provide this information in the required time. I will forward it to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Joan Collins

Question:

223 Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide the names of agencies which provide staff to his Department; the services they provide; the cost to the State of those services; the numbers of staff they provide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35718/11]

It is not possible to provide this information in the required time. I will forward it to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Foster Care

Charles Flanagan

Question:

224 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a sum of €500 per child is currently being deducted from foster carers in respect of payment to cover fostering expenses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34961/11]

As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive for the information in question which I will forward to the Deputy.

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

225 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies and State boards or other quangos which currently exist within her Department; if she will provide a breakdown of each, listing, in particular, full name, location, the total amount of funding allocated to each in 2011 and the total staff number; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since she took office, and the total amount of savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies and State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of budget 2012; if she will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying, in particular, their annual running costs, primary function and the staff number in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within her Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies and State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34893/11]

The following is a table of State agencies under the aegis of my Department, including 2011 budget, functions and staff numbers as requested.

Name

Annual Running Cost

Primary Function

Staff Number**at end of September

Family Support Agency, 4th Floor St. Stephen’s House, Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2

2011 Budget€31.7 million

Family Mediation Service ( up to 1.11.2011)Programmes:• Family Resource Centres Programme• Annual Scheme of Grants to Voluntary Organisation providing marriage, child & bereavement counselling & support

53 Persons

Adoption Authority of Ireland, Shelbourne House, Dublin 4

€3.5m

Quasi-judicial body for purposes of adoption regulation, granting of adoption orders, granting of entries in the Register of Intercountry Adoptions, monitoring, inspection and regulation of Accredited Bodies for activities outlined in the Adoption Act 2010

28 persons

National Educational Welfare Board,16-22 Green Street,Dublin 7

€9,731,000

The Education (Welfare) Act, 2000, established the National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) with statutory responsibility to ensure that each child attends a recognised school or otherwise receives a certain minimum education. The Act provides a comprehensive framework for promoting regular school attendance and the adoption of a welfare based approach to tackling the underlying causes of absenteeism and early school leaving. The general functions of the Board are to ensure that each child attends a recognised school or receives a certain minimum education.

93 persons

Office of the Ombudsman of Children, Millennium House, 52-56 Great Strand Street, Dublin 1

€2,112,000

The main areas of work of the OCO are:• Independent complaints handling• Communication & participation• Research & legislation

11 Persons

As my Department was formally established on the 3rd of June 2011 it has not abolished any State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos.

It should be noted that following enactment of the Child Care Amendment Act 2011, which was guided through its final stages in the Oireachtas in July by myself, the Children's Act Advisory Board was subsequently dissolved by means of the commencement by the Minister of Health of Part 6 of the Child Amendment Act 2011. A commitment has been given to establish a new Child and Family Support Agency under the aegis of my Department. Consideration will be given to rationalising other agencies under my Department in that context.

Adoption Services

Sandra McLellan

Question:

226 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the reasons for the delays in adopted persons being granted access to their files relating to Seán Ross Abbey which are being held by the Health Services Executive in St. Stephen’s Hospital, Glanmire, County Cork; if appropriate measures will be implemented to shorten these delays; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34916/11]

Sandra McLellan

Question:

227 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the reasons for the delays in adopted persons being granted access to their medical files relating to Seán Ross Abbey, which are being held by the Health Services Executive in St. Stephen’s Hospital, Glanmire, Cork; if appropriate measures will be implemented to shorten these delays; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34917/11]

Sandra McLellan

Question:

228 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the measures she has taken to ensure appropriate access and supports are in place for those adopted persons wishing to access their personal files, including medical files, relating to Bessborough Centre, County Cork which are being held by the Health Services Executive in St. Stephen’s Hospital, Glanmire, Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34918/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 226 to 228, inclusive, together. Following talks with the HSE, the Sacred Heart Order and officials from my Department, the HSE agreed to take responsibility for the adoption files of the Sacred Heart Adoption Society for homes in Bessborough, Co. Cork, St Peter's, Castlepollard, Co. Westmeath and Sean Ross Abbey, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary.

I have been advised by the Office of the National Director, Children & Family Services HSE that the files have now been transferred to the HSE in their entirety. The HSE inform me that a system has been put in place to manage queries from clients, i.e. children born in the Sacred Heart Homes (now adults) and birth mothers. Queries are being dealt with in the HSE Regional Adoption Department in order that enquirers can be offered a meeting with a social worker/counsellor to deal with requests as promptly as possible. The HSE has already commenced responding to individual queries and encourages anyone seeking their personal data to communicate directly with the HSE South Adoption Unit, St Stephen's Hospital, Glanmire, Co.Cork (tel. 021 4858650).

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

229 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the names of all persons nominated by her or by a Minister of State at her Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34979/11]

My Department was formally established on 2nd June 2011 and to date I have nominated the following persons:

Persons Nominated

Mr. Dick Hickey

Family Support Agency

Ms. Catherine Hazlett

Family Support Agency

Ms. Caroline Murphy

Family Support Agency

Mr. Brendan Broderick

National Education Welfare Board

Mr. Eamonn Flynn

National Education Welfare Board

Youth Services

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

230 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will indicate to an organisation (details supplied) the way she is measuring value for money; and if reductions in funding are being imposed will she articulate a clear rationale for the reductions and for the level of reductions being imposed. [35094/11]

The Youth Affairs Unit of my Department supports the delivery of a range of funding schemes, programmes and supports to the youth sector. These include the Youth Service Grant Scheme, the Special Projects for Youth Scheme, the Young People's Facilities and Services Fund Rounds 1 and 2 and Local Drugs Task Force Projects.

St. John Bosco Youth Centre is currently in receipt of funding under the Young People's Facilities and Services Fund (Rounds 1 and 2) and the 2011 allocation to the Centre is €248,247. Funding is administered to the Youth Centre by City of Dublin Youth Service Board (CDYSB). In determining allocations to initiatives and schemes in 2011 my Department has made every effort to minimise the impact of the reduction in the Youth Affairs budget on front line youth work services. In light of continuing budgetary constraints, the Youth Affairs budget in 2012 will again require careful management with a focus on prioritising existing youth service provision and protecting jobs and pay in so far as is possible. Every effort will be made to notify the various youth work organisations and administering agencies, in this instance, CDYSB, of their 2012 allocations as speedily as possible.

The main objectives of the Youth Affairs area are to develop and implement coherent, co-ordinated and relevant youth policies and strategies to support the youth sector in providing effective non-formal education and developmental opportunities for young people through which they can enhance and develop their personal and social skills and competencies. To support this work, the Youth Affairs area of my Department has a budget in 2011 of €60.154m on current expenditure and €0.8m on capital expenditure. As Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, I am committed to the development of a new youth policy framework which my Department is currently progressing. Through this work a clear policy framework will emerge that will aim to enhance the development, participation and support of young people. The overall aim will be to clarify and enhance coherence, connectivity, coordination and delivery in youth services and related out-of-schools services for young people and to ensure such provision is both quality and outcomes based. Ensuring quality service delivery is an ongoing priority for me. My Department is at present progressing two quality standards initiatives in the youth area that will help ensure an improvement in good practice, that services are outcomes focussed and that the young people involved are deriving the maximum benefit from being involved.

Community Development

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

231 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if he will provide adequate financial and HR support to organisations in situations where cuts that she makes to funding of community and voluntary groups results in redundancies. [35096/11]

The Comprehensive Review of Expenditure (CRE) is ongoing. It would be inappropriate to comment on the impact of any decision which may be taken by Government at this point.

Inter-County Adoptions

Finian McGrath

Question:

232 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will review a matter (details supplied) in respect of inter-country adoptions. [35169/11]

The Adoption Act, 2010, commenced on 1st November 2010. This coincided with Ireland's formal ratification of the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption. The purpose of the Adoption Act, 2010, is to improve standards in both domestic and intercountry adoption. The regulatory framework governing adoption has been strengthened in an attempt to ensure that the best interests of children are protected at every step throughout the adoption process. With effect from 1 November 2010, intercountry adoptions can be effected with other countries which have ratified the Hague Convention or with which Ireland has a bilateral agreement.

The Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI) is an independent statutory body charged with implementing the Adoption Act, 2010. The Authority has responsibility for the direct operational implementation of legislation and Government policy. It has a quasi-judicial role and is independent in its decision-making functions.

As provided for in Section 72 of the Adoption Act, 2010, the Authority may establish administrative arrangements concerning the processing of applications with other Hague countries in relation to intercountry adoptions. The Authority has already travelled to a number of jurisdictions in order to make contact with the Central Authorities; advise of our processes and procedures, assess the need for additional administrative arrangements or agreements; and to glean as much information as possible of relevance to prospective adopters from those countries. The visits also provide opportunities to streamline processes on both sides and get up to date information for prospective adopters on developments in these countries. AAI delegations will shortly travel to Mexico and the United States to discuss possible administrative agreements. It is envisaged that the AAI will visit Vietnam in the near future as that country has recently ratified the Hague Convention and entry into force of the Convention is 1 February 2012. The Authority has also commenced a review of the adoption laws of Lithuania, Panama, Kenya and Kazakhstan as prospective countries for adoption into Ireland, and said it would look at other Hague countries as appropriate.

As the Hague Convention is designed to ensure a minimum set of standards in intercountry adoption, the Adoption Authority have indicated that their first priority is to reach agreements on arrangements with other Hague countries. The negotiation of bilateral agreements on intercountry adoption with non-contracting states is governed by Section 73 of the Adoption Act 2010 which states that "the Authority, with the prior consent of the Minister, may enter into discussions with any non contracting state concerning the possibility of the Government entering into a bilateral agreement with that State". Ethiopia, as it is not a signatory of Hague, is covered by Section 73 of the Adoption Act 2010. Ireland currently has no bilateral agreements with non Hague Countries.

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

233 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Health if he will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which currently exist within his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of each, listing in particular full name, location, the total amount of funding allocated to each in 2011 and total staff number; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since he took office, and the total amount of savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of Budget 2012; if he will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying in particular their annual running costs, primary function and staff number in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within his Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34899/11]

Table A outlines the non-commercial state agencies under the aegis of my Department, their allocation where funded by the Department and staff (WTE) numbers. Table B outlines the boards\agencies to which I nominate/appoint board members but are funded through the HSE, with the exception of the Hepatitis C and HIV Compensation Tribunal, whose funding is administered through this Department..

One agency, the Children Acts Advisory Board, (allocation of €0.45m and staffing (WTE) of 16) was dissolved on 8th September 2011. The VHI is the only Commercial State Agency within my Department. The primary aim of the programme of agency rationalisation within the health sector is to streamline service delivery, professional registration and policy making in a number of areas, through the integration and/or amalgamation of functions. The rationalisation programme involves a significant legislative programme and a considerable amount of work is ongoing in this area at present.

5 Bodies are currently being dissolved/subsumed; National Cancer Registry Board, Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council, Optician Board, National Council for Professional Development of Nursing and Midwifery and the Drug Treatment Centre Board, with legislation at various stages of preparation. With regard to staff numbers, all staff employed by an Agency prior to rationalisation transfer to the employ of the receiving Agency. A reduction in numbers employed will only arise when staff leave on expiry of a contract at some future date or in the case of permanent staff reaching retirement age.

The future reconfiguration of agencies within my Department is currently being considered by Government.

Table A

Agency

Location

Allocation € (m)

Staffing (WTE)

An Bord Altranais

Dublin

Self funding

40.5

Dental Council

Dublin

Self funding

5

Food Safety Authority of Ireland

Dublin

16.6

76.9

Food Safety Promotions Board

Cork

6.0

31.8

Health and Social Care Professional Council

Dublin

1.9

8

Health Information Quality Authority

Cork

11.7

148.9

Health Insurance Authority

Dublin

Self funding

8.6

Health Research Board

Dublin

32.3

69.5

Irish Blood Transfusion Service

Dublin

Self funding

550

Irish Medicines Board

Dublin

3.3

258.9

Medical Council

Dublin

Self funding

52.5

Mental Health Commission

Dublin

15.0

36.6

National Cancer Registry Board

Cork

2.8

52.5

National Council for the Professional Development of Nursing & Midwifery

Dublin

1.7

11.5

National Paediatric Hospital Development Board

Dublin

Funded by HSE

1.5

National Treatment Purchase Fund

Dublin

85.6

46.6

Opticians Board

Dublin

Self funding

2

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland

Dublin

Self funding

23.6

Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council

Kildare

3.0

16

Table B

Board\Agency

Beaumont Hospital Board

Consultative Council on Hepatitis C

Drug Treatment Centre Board

Dublin Dental Hospital Board

Health Service Executive

Hepatitis C and HIV Compensation Tribunal

Leopardstown Park Hospital Board

National Haemophilia Council

St James’s Hospital Board

Health Practitioners’ Qualifications

Gerry Adams

Question:

234 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the recognition of an Italian qualification in respect of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34911/11]

The Deputy refers to an application, from the person whose details are supplied, to have his professional qualifications recognised under Directive 2005/36/EC for the purposes of seeking employment in the publicly-funded health service in Ireland.

This Directive applies to all EEA nationals wishing to practise a regulated profession in an EEA Member State other than that in which they obtained their professional qualifications. Its intention is to make it easier for certain professionals to practise their professions in European countries other than their own but due safeguards are provided in the assessment of the qualification for public health and safety and consumer protection.

For the purposes of the Directive, a regulated profession is defined as a professional activity access to which is subject, directly or indirectly, by virtue of legislative, regulatory or administrative provisions to the possession of specific professional qualifications. Where statutory registration does not exist for a profession in Ireland, non-Irish qualifications are assessed for their equivalence to the Irish entry-level qualifications required to work in the publicly-funded health sector.

Under Statutory Instruments Nos. 139 and 166 of 2008, which transpose the Directive into Irish law, the Minister for Health and Children is the Competent Authority for the profession in question. For this profession, the Directive does not provide for automatic recognition of professional qualifications obtained in another Member State; it provides for an assessment, on a case-by-case basis, of the qualifications of an applicant against those required to practise in the host member state. If the activities covered by the profession in the home and the host member state are not comparable, then the qualifications cannot be recognised. If the activities are comparable but deficits in the qualifications are identified, subsequent post-qualification professional experience of the applicant must be considered. If deficits still remain, the host Member State must offer an applicant a compensation measure, a choice of completing an adaptation period or taking an aptitude test. The Period of Adaptation is defined in the Directive as: “the pursuit of a regulated profession in the host Member State under the responsibility of a qualified member of that profession, such period of supervised practice possibly being accompanied by further training. This period of supervised practice shall be the subject of an assessment.”

It would be inappropriate to comment on individual applications but I am advised that, in the case of this person's application, he has been advised of his deficit, which is in clinical research. This deficit must be addressed by either of the compensation measures provided for in the Directive. As the role of the recognition process is not to conduct primary assessment/evaluation of professional training but rather to assess for equivalence to Irish reference standards the certification of previous professional training, the applicant was recommended to undertake a taught research programme. It is considered that this would satisfy the requirements of the Directive as he would receive additional professional training within a supervised structure; and the outcome of this additional training could be assessed for equivalence.

Hospital Staff

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

235 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the reasons for the delay in appointing the necessary staff to the promised, and agreed, stroke unit at Cavan General Hospital; the steps he will take to ensure the removal of any and every obstacle to the said appointments; and if he will guarantee the establishment of the unit, with all required specialist staff in situ, before Christmas 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34913/11]

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

General Medical Services Scheme

Patrick Nulty

Question:

236 Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for Health the steps he will take to ensure that general practitioners do not charge medical card top up fees for blood tests. [34919/11]

Charles Flanagan

Question:

240 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health the position in respect of general medical practitioners who impose a charge on medical card holders in respect of routine blood tests; if such imposition is considered acceptable in the circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34968/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 236 and 240 together.

Under the General Medical Services (GMS) contract, it is the general practitioners (GPs) contracted responsibility to provide proper and necessary treatment to medical card and GP visit card holders. In circumstances where the taking of blood is necessary to either (a) diagnose a patient or (b) monitor a diagnosed condition, the GP may not charge the patient if they are eligible for free GMS services under the Health Act, 1970, as amended. The HSE points out that, in many GP surgeries, it is the practice nurse who takes blood samples. The HSE significantly subsidises the cost of employing practice nurses.

At my request, the HSE has written to all GMS GPs reminding them of their obligations under their contract in this regard. I would encourage patients to follow up with the HSE if they believe they are being wrongly charged for services by their GP and the matter will be fully investigated by the HSE. Formal complaints will be dealt with through the HSE's Consumer Affairs Service. In a number of cases to-date, the GP has reimbursed their patients following receipt of correspondence from the HSE.

I appreciate that because of the nature of the GP/patient relationship, it may be difficult for patients to make such complaints. Where public representatives are made aware of GPs charging GMS patients for blood tests, they may wish to notify the HSE directly.

Medical Cards

Michelle Mulherin

Question:

237 Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Health the position regarding an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; if the processing of the application will be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34936/11]

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

Croke Park Agreement

Liam Twomey

Question:

238 Deputy Liam Twomey asked the Minister for Health the aspects of the Croke Park agreement, such as an 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. working day and a 5-7 workday week, that have been implemented; the areas of the health service in which this is happening; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34965/11]

The Public Service Agreement is an essential "enabler" for the health sector, to allow services to respond the healthcare needs of the population in an appropriate and sustainable manner, against a backdrop of very significant reductions in financial and staff resources. The Agreement also facilitates the implementation of major reforms aimed at improving access to services, as well as improving quality and safety, achieving better value for money and improving health outcomes at a population level.

The introduction of revised working patterns, such as an extended working day (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) and new rostering arrangements, has potential significantly to improve the responsiveness and efficiency of health service delivery. Agreement was reached in February 2011 with the relevant staff unions (MLSA, IMPACT and SIPTU) on the introduction of an extended working day for medical laboratory staff. This affects some 3,000 staff, who now have a liability to be rostered between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. from Monday to Friday. The HSE has projected annual savings of at least €5m arising from this agreement. Discussions are at present underway in relation to revision of work patterns for radiography staff and the HSE has also tabled proposals for more flexible rostering arrangements for nursing staff.

To date, the HSE has submitted two detailed progress reports on the implementation of the Health Sector Action Plan under the Public Service Agreement to the national-level Implementation Body. These refer to the periods March 2010-March 2011 and April 2011-September 2011 respectively. Sectoral progress reports are published on the Implementation Body's website www.implementationbody.gov.ie

Significant achievements reported to date include the transfer of the Community Welfare Service from the HSE to the Department of Social Protection, the centralisation of medical card processing (with estimated annual savings of €20m), implementation in late 2010 of a voluntary early retirement scheme and voluntary redundancy scheme for certain staff categories, under which 1,626 WTE staff left the public health service, and internal redeployment of a further 750 staff.

There must remain a clear focus on the part of all parties to the Agreement on achieving the changes and in particular the efficiencies which the PSA makes possible. The HSE will continue to pursue further initiatives with the staff side to ensure that all possible benefits from the Agreement are achieved.

Liam Twomey

Question:

239 Deputy Liam Twomey asked the Minister for Health how the Health Service Executive intends monitoring quicker discharge of patients, particularly at weekends by hospital consultants; the other changes to consultants’ work practices envisaged under the Croke Park agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34966/11]

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 was established in June and quickly began work with the HSE to put in place a systematic approach to eliminate excessive waiting in emergency departments.

The problems in our emergency departments are complex and they did not arise overnight. The particular issues vary from hospital to hospital and some of the solutions will depend on local factors. However it is clear that in many cases delayed discharge is a major factor. More rapid discharge depends on a number of factors but regular and timely ward rounds by consultants is critical, including at weekends. As part of the work the SDU is doing in supporting the HSE this issue is being closely monitored particularly on those sites which have a particular problem with trolley waits.

With regard to changes to consultants work practices, an immediate priority is to achieve more effective implementation of Consultant Contract 2008. I believe there is plenty of scope under the 2008 Contract, that provides for an extended working day, an increase in the length of the working week and structured weekend work, with consultants working as part of a team delivering the Clinical Directorate Service Plan, and the Croke Park agreement to achieve greater productivity from consultants. For example, increased consultant participation in patient discharges at weekends would more quickly free up beds for emergency admissions.

Question No. 240 answered with Question No. 236.

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

241 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Health the names of all persons appointed by him or by a Minister of State at his Department to any State board since 9 March 2011. [34986/11]

The following appointments have been made on my nomination since 9th March 2011.

Nominee

Board

Appointed

Expiry Date

Mr Brian Gilroy

Health Service Executive

20/05/2011

31/12/2012

Ms Laverne McGuinness

Health Service Executive

20/05/2011

31/12/2012

Dr Philip Crowley

Health Service Executive

20/05/2011

31/12/2012

Dr Barry White

Health Service Executive

20/05/2011

31/12/2012

Ms Bairbre Nic Aongusa

Health Service Executive

20/05/2011

07/02/2015

Mr Paul Barron

Health Service Executive

20/05/2011

07/02/2015

Dr Tony Holohan

Health Service Executive

20/05/2011

07/02/2015

Mr Michael Scanlan

Health Service Executive

20/05/2011

07/02/2015

Ms Ann Grogan

National Haemophilia Council

23/05/2011

09/12/2013

Dr Martin Connor

Health Service Executive

06/06/2011

07/06/2015

Dr Michael Barry

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland Council

15/06/2011

14/06/2015

Dr Jean Holohan

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland Council

15/06/2011

14/06/2015

Professor Ciaran O’Boyle

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland Council

15/06/2011

14/06/2015

Mr Fionan O Cuinneagain

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland Council

15/06/2011

14/06/2015

Dr Barry Harrington

National Haemophilia Council

19/07/2011

18/07/2014

Ms Mary Jackson

National Haemophilia Council

22/07/2011

21/07/2014

Ms Kathryn Hutton

Hepatitis C and HIV Compensation Tribunal

01/08/2011

31/07/2012

Dr Anna Gavin

National Cancer Registry Board

06/08/2011

05/08/2012

Mr Tony O’Brien

National Cancer Registry Board

06/08/2011

05/08/2012

Professor Donal Hollywood

National Cancer Registry Board

06/08/2011

05/08/2012

Dr Deirdre Murray

National Cancer Registry Board

06/08/2011

05/08/2012

Ms Mary Jackson

National Cancer Registry Board

06/08/2011

05/08/2012

Mr John McCormack

National Cancer Registry Board

06/08/2011

05/08/2012

Professor Paul Redmond

National Cancer Registry Board

06/08/2011

05/08/2012

Dr Lelia Thornton

Irish Blood Transfusion Service

19/10/2011

31/10/2013

Professor Mary Horgan

Irish Medicines Board

19/10/2011

31/12/2015

Medical Cards

Eoghan Murphy

Question:

242 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Health if he will consider the following case regarding a person’s (details supplied) in Dublin 6 difficulty in receiving a medical card. [35025/11]

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

Health Services

James Bannon

Question:

243 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health the reason the Health Service Executive is failing to reply to representatives on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35032/11]

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

National Drugs Strategy

Joe Costello

Question:

244 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Health the reason local drugs task force and community employment scheme managers were not consulted or made aware of the new eligibility rules for special projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35033/11]

As indicated during a Topical Issues Debate on this matter on Tuesday, 8 November last, the conditions relating to the Community Employment Drugs Rehabilitation Programme have not changed. Following a review carried out in 2010 the conditions have been restated and the referral process has been clarified. The review was conducted by a Working Group, whose membership included representatives from the community and voluntary sectors.

Further work is underway by the National Drugs Rehabilitation Implementation Committee to review the allocation of placements and recruitment procedures to ensure that effective referral protocols are in place.

Hospitals Building Programme

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

245 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Health when he expects building works to commence on the new national children’s hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35060/11]

As the Deputy will be aware I commissioned an independent Review regarding the location of the new hospital on the Mater Campus. I announced the outcome of the Review on 6 July 2011. The independent experts who formed the Review Team, having examined all the issues in accordance with the Terms of Reference came to the unanimous and unequivocal recommendation that the development of the new hospital should proceed on the Mater Campus.

I confirmed the Government's acceptance of the recommendation of the Review Team and requested the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board (NPHDB) to proceed with a planning application to an Bord Pleanála. Planning permission has just completed the oral hearing stage and a decision is expected early next year. Subject to receipt of planning permission it is intended to go to tender for construction of the new hospital by mid 2012, with a view to commencement of construction as early as possible in 2013.

Departmental Expenditure

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

246 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the total spent on health in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011; if he would also indicate the percentage of GDP spent on health in each of the same years and the percentage of GNP spent on health in each of the same years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35069/11]

The information sought by the Deputy is set out hereunder. Expenditure includes Treatment Benefits which is administered by the Department of Social Protection, but excludes items not considered health expenditure such as expenditure under Vote 41 Office of the Minister for Children (2008) and the Office of the Minister for Children & Youth Affairs (2009-2011). GDP and GNP percentages for 2011 are based on forecast figures contained in the Department of Finance Medium-Term Fiscal Statement (November 2011).

2008

2009

2010

2011

Total Public Expenditure (Capital and Non-Capital)

€ millions

€ millions

€ millions

€ millions

Expenditure

15,172

15,516

14,811

14,079 (estimated)

As a percentage of GDP

8.4

9.7

9.5

9.1

As a percentage of GNP

9.8

11.7

11.6

11.1

Health Service Staff

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

247 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the total number of staff employed in the Health Service Executive and his Department each year from 2008 to 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35070/11]

The numbers of staff employed in the public health service for the years 2008 to 2011 (the latest available data is for September 2011) are set out in the table below. This information is from the HSE Census.

The numbers employed across the Department of Health for the years in question are as follows: The reduction in staff numbers in 2011 can be attributed to the establishment of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) on the 2nd June 2011. This included the transfer of 89 WTE to the new Department. In addition, 16 WTE were transferred to the Department of Health from the Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs.

Hospital Services

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

248 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the number of consultant histopathologists currently in Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9; the number of persons on the waiting list to see the consultant; the average waiting time to see the consultant; the steps being taken to reduce the waiting times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35088/11]

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

249 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the number of consultant rheumatologists currently in Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9; the number of persons on the waiting list to see the consultant; the average waiting time to see the consultant; the steps being taken to reduce the waiting times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35089/11]

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

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

Health Services

Brian Walsh

Question:

250 Deputy Brian Walsh asked the Minister for Health if funding will be made available to provide a home care package to allow for the discharge of a 21 month old child (details supplied). [35158/11]

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

State Agencies

Michael McCarthy

Question:

251 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will confirm the total number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which currently exist within his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of each, listing in particular full name, location, the total amount of funding allocated to each in 2011 and total staff number; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos which have been abolished or wound down since he took office, and the total amount of savings achieved with each closure; the number of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos being considered for abolition in the context of budget 2012; if he will furnish a list of the organisations under consideration, specifying in particular their annual running costs, primary function, and staff number in tabular form; if there is a rationalisation programme in place within his Department in respect of State agencies, independent statutory bodies, State boards or other quangos for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34904/11]

The Government is committed to a radical streamlining of State bodies and is currently considering proposals for doing so. I expect it will be in a position shortly to announce its plans in this regard.

In relation to my Department and its agencies, I have already taken a number of actions to date on rationalisation and I am working on progressing further proposals. These are detailed in my reply to Question 586 on 8 November 2011.

There are currently 33 State agencies within the aegis of my Department. I provided a full list of these in my reply to Questions 624 and 645 on 25th October 2011. The amount of central funding, if any, provided to each agency is set out in the Book of Estimates. The details sought by the Deputy on location, staff numbers, and running costs are available in the annual reports and accounts of the individual agencies.

Sports Capital Programme

Patrick Nulty

Question:

252 Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if funds remain in place to build an all weather pitch at a location (details supplied) in Dublin 15. [34920/11]

All of the recently announced allocations to local authorities for sport capital projects were allocated on condition that grant would be drawn down by the end of the year. It is my understanding that the project referred to by the Deputy will commence construction in the next week or so.

Departmental Funding

Billy Timmins

Question:

253 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of applications received from Wicklow County Council in respect of funding for walkways under the jobs initiative scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34928/11]

Applications for funding under the Government's Jobs Initiative for projects in the Greater Dublin Area, which includes Wicklow, and in the regional cities falls within the remit of the National Transport Authority (NTA).

I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. If no response has been received within ten working days, he should advise my private office.

Ministerial Appointments

Dara Calleary

Question:

254 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the names of all persons nominated by him or by a Minister of State at his Department to any State appointment since 9 March 2011. [34991/11]

Since my appointment as Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport on 9th March 2011 I have made 38 appointments to the boards of the agencies under my remit. They are listed in the table below. My Department will very shortly commence regular publication of details of board membership to our website to ensure that up to date information will be more easily available to interested parties and the public.

Board Appointments since 9th March

Body

Appointee

Date of Appointment

National Roads Authority

David O’Connor

27/06/2011

Road Safety Authority

Gay Byrne

14/09/2011

Edward Rock

14/09/2011

Sean Finan

14/09/2011

Aaron McHale

14/09/2011

Áine Cornally

14/09/2011

Dr. Áine Carroll

14/09/2011

Ronan Melvin

14/09/2011

Myra Garrett

14/09/2011

Bus Átha Cliath

Kevin Bonner

29/06/2011

Bus Éireann

Paul Mallee

29/06/2011

Henry Minogue

10/10/2011

Bus Éireann

Kieran Fay

07/11/2011

Iarnród Éireann

Phil Gaffney

29/06/2011

Railway Procurement Agency

Frank Allen

06/08/2011

David O’Connor

27/06/2011

Tom Wall

28/07/2011

Advisory Committee to the National Transport Authority

Pat Byrne

01/07/2011

Frank Moore

01/07/2011

Peter Rogers

01/07/2011

Christopher Humphrey

01/07/2011

Michael Kilcoyne

01/07/2011

Donie O’Shea

01/07/2011

Douglas Jordan

01/07/2011

Michael Rowland

01/07/2011

Derek McGovern

01/07/2011

Brian Killeen

01/07/2011

Al Ryan

01/07/2011

Cornelius McIntyre

01/07/2011

Kathleen Diamond

01/07/2011

Ciarán Aylward

05/09/2011

Irish Aviation Authority

Eamonn Brennan

08/09/2011

Michael A Norton

06/10/2011

Fáilte Ireland

Gina Murphy

18/07/2011

Noel Kavanagh

18/07/2011

Frankie Sheahan

18/07/2011

Ciarán O’Gaora

18/07/2011

Irish Sports Council

Bernard Allen

12/10/2011

Taxi Regulations

Eoghan Murphy

Question:

255 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will review the following case (details supplied). [35026/11]

The regulation of the taxi industry, including arrangements for the sitting of the taxi suitability and area knowledge tests, are a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) under the Taxi Regulation Act, 2003.

I have asked the NTA to respond to you in this case. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

Road Network

Charlie McConalogue

Question:

256 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the total figure for funds he has ring-fenced for the A5 through Northern Ireland to Derry providing access to County Donegal, under the Infrastructure and Capital Investment Programme 2012 to 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35091/11]

Arising from the St Andrew's Agreement, the Irish Government gave a commitment to co-fund the construction of the A5 through Northern Ireland to Derry thus improving access to Letterkenny and North Donegal. In light of the current economic circumstances, the Government has had to defer its funding commitment to this project.

As indicated in the Infrastructure and Capital Investment Programme 2012 to 2016, given the tight fiscal constraints, roads investment will be focused on maintaining existing roads, rather than developing new routes. It is therefore not anticipated that significant resources will be available for this project over that timeframe. Next year, a payment of £3 million is due in accordance with the current A5 payment schedule, and provision for this has been made in my Department's 2012 capital allocation. After next year, the funding requirements for the A5 will be met from the Government's unallocated reserves and not from the vote of the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport. This obviously includes the €25m contribution to the project in 2015 and 2016. As such, there will be no specific funding provision for the A5 in the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport's annual allocations.

The Government will be discussing with the Northern Ireland Executive, at next Friday's North-South Ministerial Council, the extent to which it may be able to provide such funding in future years , and, in that light, the approach to be taken to developing a new funding and implementation plan.

Furthermore, I would remind the Deputy that the previous Government made no provision to meet the costs of the A5 post 2012 in either the Four Year Plan or the Infrastructure Investment Priorities Plan 2010 to 2016.

Road Signage

Aodhán Ó Ríordáin

Question:

257 Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will consider introducing colour coded signs indicating the days and times in which bus lanes are available for cars and traffic to allow drivers to be more aware of when they may avail of bus lanes for example, green for the more normal times of 7.00 — 19.00 hours, orange for non-standard times of say 7.00 — 10.00 and 12.00 — 19.00 hours and so on, red for 24 hour bus lanes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35143/11]

The signage at the entrance to all bus lanes clearly indicates the times and days at which they are restricted to buses and public service vehicles.

I am advised that there have been suggestions previously regarding the format of supplementary plates associated with bus lane signs, including the use of coloured plates to indicate the times of operation. The issue was examined during the revision of the Traffic Signs Manual, which was reissued in 2010, and it was decided on balance to keep to the existing system. Guidance on supplementary plates is given in section 5.22 of the Traffic Signs Manual, which may be downloaded from my Department's website. www.dttas.ie.

Capital Investment Programme

Timmy Dooley

Question:

258 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will give further and more detailed information on the infrastructure and capital investment 2012 to 2016 Medium Term Exchequer Framework commitment to the removal of certain pinch points and bottlenecks including some urban rail level crossings and give the exact crossings in question; and the timeframe expected for this work programme. [35161/11]

Following the publication of the Medium Term Exchequer Framework 2012 -2016 the individual agencies have been advised of their overall allocations for the period 2012 to 2016. It is now a matter for the relevant agencies to prepare five year plans having regard to the funds available and the priorities as outlined in the Framework .

My Department will be liaising closely with the agencies as regards their five year plans.

Rail Services

Timmy Dooley

Question:

259 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide an updated report on the position regarding, including timeframe, the plan for the electrification of the Maynooth train service to supple DART services. [35162/11]

Following the establishment of the National Transport Authority (NTA) on December 2009, the implementation and development of infrastructure projects in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA), such as the development of the Maynooth line, comes under the remit of the NTA. As such, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you don't receive a reply within 10 working days.

However, I would say that the electrification of the Maynooth train service is an element of the DART Underground Programme. Due to funding constraints the DART Underground tunnel has been postponed and will be reviewed in advance of the next capital programme in 2015. While elements of the overall programme which by themselves would bring benefits for rail commuters may precede if funds allow, this would be a matter for the NTA to determine in preparing their programme for the next 5 years arising from the funding and priorities outlined in the Medium Term Exchequer Framework 2012-2016.

Road Network

Timmy Dooley

Question:

260 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the Slane bypass has now been postponed beyond 2016 in view of the curtailment of capital spending at his Department. [35163/11]

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The construction, improvement and maintenance of individual national roads, is a matter for the National Roads Authority under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

Noting this I have referred the Deputy's question to the NRA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you don't receive a reply within 10 working days.

Public Transport Projects

Timmy Dooley

Question:

261 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the total amount of money spent by him on the Metro North project since 1 March 2011. [35164/11]

Timmy Dooley

Question:

262 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the contingency funding that has been put in place to deal with any potential compensation claims arising out of the decision not to proceed with the Metro North project at this time. [35165/11]

Timmy Dooley

Question:

263 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the total amount of money spent on the DART underground project by him since 1 March 2011. [35166/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 261 to 263, inclusive, together.

I am informed by the National Transport Authority (NTA) that they provided €4.9 million to the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) between 1st March 2011 and 31st October 2011 in respect of costs associated with Metro North. The NTA provided €4.6 million to Iarnrod Éireann in respect of costs associated with DART Underground in the same period.

With regard to the question of compensation arising from the deferment of Metro North, the terms of the Metro North PPP Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) provide for RPA to make an ex-gratia payment of up to €1 million to each tenderer remaining in the process (of which there are two) in the event that the project does not proceed. Any claim must be independently verified. This arrangement was approved by the previous Government in 2008. Funding in respect of any reimbursement will be provided by my Department.

I would point out that there will be further costs associated with the orderly deferral of these projects. In the case of Metro North, the main item will be the works at the Mater Hospital which are required to be undertaken in order to preserve, ahead of the completion of the new Adult Hospital, the necessary clearance envelope for the subsequent construction of the underground metro stop whenever it is decided to proceed with this project in the future. I believe it is important to carry out these works so that the Metro can be built at some point in the future without the requirement to close the Adult Hospital.

I expect to have full details of all outstanding costs for these two projects by year-end.

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