Vol. 754 No. 1
13 Deputy Seamus Healy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will take the current licensing and tax arrangements for oil and gas finds into account in his decision on whether to grant a foreshore licence to a company (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5758/12]
32 Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government what precedent there is for granting foreshore licences to drill for oil; how that compares with international standards; his views on the granting of a foreshore licence so close to an special area of conservation (details supplied) in which there are both protected and endangered species; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5757/12]
33 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the details of any environmental impact assessments that have been carried out with regard to an application by a company (details supplied) for a foreshore licence to drill for oil 6 km off the coast of Dalkey Island; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5755/12]
35 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will call for a public inquiry about the application by a company (details supplied) for a foreshore licence to drill for oil 6 km off Dalkey Island; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5754/12]
39 Deputy Seamus Healy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the factors he will take into account in his decision on whether to call for a public inquiry into the current application for a foreshore licence by a company (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5759/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 13, 32, 33, 35 and 39 together.
Primary policy responsibility for the exploitation of offshore natural resources, including the tax regime applicable to such projects, is a matter for the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. Such projects are subject to a number of statutory consents under the Gas Acts, and the Petroleum and Other Minerals Development Act. Projects involving works within the 12 nautical mile outer limit of the foreshore are also subject to consent under the Foreshore Acts.
My Department has received an application from Providence Resources for a foreshore licence in respect of site investigations and the drilling of an exploratory well off Dalkey. This is the first such application under foreshore legislation for this type of project. The application is currently the subject of a public consultation procedure which commenced on 5 January 2012. The closing date for the receipt of submissions by my Department is today. The application has been referred to standard prescribed body consultees including the Marine Institute, the Marine Survey Office, the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority, Inland Fisheries Ireland and the National Parks and Wildlife Service. In addition, and owing to the nature of the proposal, the application has also been referred to Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Wicklow County Council, Dublin Port Company, Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. Given the nature of the application, the fact that it is the subject of a public consultation process, and that the decision and related documentation, including the submissions received under the public consultation process, will be published on my Department's website, I do not consider that a public inquiry is necessary.
The proposal will be the subject of an environmental assessment by the scientific and technical advisors on the marine licence vetting committee. Their assessment will involve a detailed examination of the application and related information and the issues raised in the submissions received on foot of the consultation process. The extent of the environmental assessment required will also be informed by the issues that may emerge from the prescribed body and public consultations. It would be expected that the environmental assessment will consider impacts on European sites, sensitive species, other legitimate uses within the area that is the subject of the application, and navigation issues.
I will make a determination on the application in due course, taking account of the recommendation of the marine licence vetting committee and my Department. Should the project progress to commercial exploitation, it would be the subject of further applications for consents from the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, in the first instance, and then An Bord Pleanála under the Planning Acts, and a lease or licence under the Foreshore Acts, all of which will require the submission of an environmental impact statement and environmental impact assessments by the relevant consent authorities.
14 Deputy Derek Keating asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the plans he has to regulate private refuse collection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5822/12]
27 Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on the handing over of Dublin City Council’s waste collection to a company (details supplied); his views on the €100 charge, and the steps he will take to rescind this charge in view of the fact that it is contrary to the polluter pays principle; if he will bring in regulation to ensure that private companies conform to the highest of standards; and if he will bring in legislation establishing a bond to secure a waste service for households that pay in advance for collection, in case of private companies going into liquidation. [5724/12]
44 Deputy Derek Keating asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he is satisfied that the service from private contractors providing a refuse collection is adequate; if he will consider some sort of local appeal system for cases in which standards are not being adhered to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5823/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 14, 27 and 44 together.
The charges applied by waste management companies are a matter between those companies and their customers, subject to compliance with all applicable environmental and other relevant legislation, particularly the conditions attached to each waste collector's collection permit issued by the relevant local authority under the Waste Management (Collection Permit) Regulations 2007, as amended. Waste collection in individual local authority areas may also be subject to local bye-laws. The Programme for Government contains a commitment to introduce competitive tendering for household waste collection, under which 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.
A public consultation designed to inform the policy development process concluded in September 2011. A large number of responses were received from a broad spectrum of interests. As one might expect, a consensus is not apparent and, on almost all of the relevant issues, a considerable breadth of opinion was expressed. All of the responses received, in addition to a summary document, are available on my Department's website, www.environ.ie.
I expect to be in a position to submit final proposals in relation to household waste collection to Government by Easter this year. All policy proposals will be carefully considered by Government and will take account of the full range of issues and perspectives. Issues including pricing structures, value for money and service standards will be among the issues for consideration in this context.
15 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to ensure that the Limerick regeneration project is fast-tracked and housing is provided as soon as possible. [5920/12]
This Government remains committed to the regeneration of the estates and communities in our most disadvantaged areas. Despite the current adverse economic conditions and consequent Exchequer constraints, we continue to prioritise funding for regeneration within the overall social housing programme. Last year alone my Department provided €118 million for regeneration, representing 25% of the total housing capital investment programme. Of this, €55 million was invested in Limerick with a significant amount of this being expended on essential strategic and preparatory work, including the purchase of strategic sites in the city centre and elsewhere, to allow progress towards the critical construction phase.
Over the course of 2011, the regeneration programme largely transitioned from the planning and early interventions phase to construction and implementation. This work will continue in 2012. My Department envisages more than 100 new housing units commencing construction in the current year with many more being progressed through the various stages of planning. In addition, I have directed the Regeneration Agencies and the City Council to prepare plans for improving the existing housing which is suitable for retention within the estates. It is important to note that all projects and interventions receiving support from my Department must be based on a thorough and sound analysis of the needs of the community. To this end, the Agencies, with the Council, are currently finalising robust, evidence-based implementation plans which will provide greater clarity and a road map for the implementation of projects over the coming years.
The merger of the two local authorities presents a further opportunity to build on the foundations already laid by ensuring that regeneration takes a central role in the programme of the new unitary authority. I will be visiting the regeneration areas tomorrow where I intend to set out my vision for the future of regeneration in Limerick. I am confident that this will meet with the support of all stakeholders and help accelerate the long awaited and much-needed implementation phase of the regeneration project.
16 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the steps he has taken towards agency rationalisation; the number of agencies currently under his remit; the number of these that he envisages will be cut; the estimated savings from this rationalisation; the effect on services provided by these agencies; the locations at which these services will be provided in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5765/12]
In October 2011, I announced further measures in relation to my Department's agency rationalisation programme with the overall number of agencies being reduced from 21 to 12. Overall, estimated savings in the order of €1.9 million have been achieved to date in the agency rationalisation process and I anticipate that this should rise significantly. Agency staff numbers are targeted to fall to 712 by 2015 as compared to 951 at the end of 2008 — a reduction of 239 (25%).
An Chomhairle Leabharlanna will be dissolved, with any key residual functions to be subsumed into the Local Government Management Agency. The dissolution should result in savings in terms of annual operating costs of the order of €1m and could yield a once-off windfall through disposal of its headquarters in Dublin's City centre. The Housing and Sustainable Communities Agency (HSCA) rationalises the functions of three Agencies. The Local Government Management Services Board and the Local Government Computer Services Board are merging as the Local Government Management Agency. The Limerick Northside and South side Regeneration Agencies will be replaced through the development of new management arrangements in the context of the merger of Limerick City and Limerick County Council. The Dormant Accounts Board (Amendment) Bill 2011 proposes to dissolve the Dormant Accounts Board. The agency rationalisation/efficiency agenda will be kept under review, taking the Public Service Reform Plan's recommendations into account, in so far as all agencies under my Department's aegis are concerned.
17 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government how he intends to reallocate the funds raised through the household charge to local authorities; and if there is a shortfall in moneys raised, how this shortfall will be met. [5898/12]
The household charge is a local authority charge, the proceeds of which will be used to fund vital local services in our communities. The Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 provides that income from the household charge is to be paid into the Local Government Fund. I will disburse monies back to local authorities in general-purpose grants. It is considered that this approach is preferable to allowing local authorities directly retain all moneys collected from the household charge in their areas, as it will make it possible for me to equalise distribution, ensuring that those local authorities with lower populations than others do not suffer unduly as a result.
It is estimated that there are some 1.6 million residential properties potentially liable to the household charge. As such, if collected in full, the household charge has the potential to raise €160 million annually. The household charge is framed on a self assessment basis at a point in time. It is a matter for those who own residential property liable to the charge to declare this and to pay the charge by the due date, 31 March 2012. As an incentive to pay the self assessment charge, late payment fees and late payment interest apply and any amounts due and unpaid remain as a charge against the property concerned. Such amounts will have to be discharged in the event of the sale or transfer of the property concerned. Over 68,000 properties have registered to pay the household charge from 1 January to 31 January. This represents some €6.8m. The large numbers of people paying the charge is a clear indication of compliance with the legislation and the acceptance that the household charge is necessary to fund vital local services in our communities.
I will be keeping the income being generated from the household charge under constant review and I and local authorities will take any necessary measures, as appropriate, in regard to compliance with the legislation.
18 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the action he, as Minister with legislative responsibility for local authorities, will take to address the loss of service arising from the retirement of more than 730 authority workers by the end of February 2012. [5903/12]
25 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of jobs that have been lost in each of the 34 premier Irish local authorities in 2011 due to the embargo on recruitment; if he will estimate the potential job losses in each of the local authorities in 2012 due to the same embargo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5721/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 18 and 25 together.
The number of staff employed across all 34 local authorities at end of June 2008 was 37,243, compared to 29,744 at end of December 2011, a reduction of 7,499. Based on estimates from local authorities it is anticipated that a further 755 staff may leave the sector by end 2012. The recruitment moratorium in the Public Service was introduced by the Government in March 2009 as an emergency measure in response to the financial crisis facing the State and the moratorium remains in place.
Under section 159 of the Local Government Act 2001, each County and City Manager is responsible for staffing and organisational arrangements necessary for carrying out the functions of the local authorities for which he or she is responsible. In this regard, it is a matter for County and City managers, in the first instance, to ensure that the reduction in staff numbers is managed so that the appropriate service level is maintained. My Department operates the moratorium in relation to local authorities on delegated sanction from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. My Department works very closely with local authorities to ensure that critical posts are filled while overall numbers are reduced. In this regard, some 2,600 sanction requests have been dealt with by my Department.
A joint working group of the City and County Managers Association and my Department has been established to deal with staffing issues. The approach to staffing issues in the local government sector takes account of financial and efficiency requirements and the need to ensure appropriate levels of service, including front-line service provision.
19 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the legislation he was referring to when he indicated during the debate in Dáil Éireann that households would be exempt from planning permission when upgrading septic tanks in line with the Water Services Act 2011. [5905/12]
40 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the legislation to which he was referring when he indicated during the debate in Dail Éireann that households with septic tanks on sites of a quarter of an acre or less would be exempt from having to access more land in order to comply with the Water Service Act. [5906/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 19 and 40 together.
Section 4 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 provides for the exemption of certain developments from planning requirements. Under the provisions of Part 1 of the Second Schedule of the 2001 Planning Regulations, works consisting of, or incidental to, the carrying out of development in compliance with a notice under Section 12 of the Local Government (Water Pollution) Act 1977 is an exempted development. Such notices are issued by local authorities in order to prevent or control pollution of waters, including pollution arising from on-site waste water treatment and disposal systems. I anticipate that works arising from the implementation of the Water Services (Amendment) Bill 2011 will be treated similarly to those arising from notices issued under Section 12 of the Local Government (Water Pollution) Act 1977.
I have committed, during the consideration of the Water Services (Amendment) Bill 2011 by the Oireachtas, to examine what further amendments to the exempted development provisions of planning legislation will be necessary where remediation or upgrading of domestic waste water treatment systems arises from implementation of the inspection requirements of the new legislation. There is nothing in the Bill which would require a householder to purchase additional lands. Where a septic tank or other on-site waste water treatment system is found to be causing risk to human health or the environment, a decision regarding the remediation work to be carried out will be based not only on the exact nature of the failure in the tank or system and the extent of the risk to health and the environment but also on issues such as existing site size and hydrological and geological conditions. The most appropriate and cost-effective engineering solution available will inform the work to be specified in an advisory notice.
A key objective of the new legislation is to enhance and protect public health and the environment, including drinking water quality, on an on-going basis. The national inspection plan, which will be prepared by the Environmental Protection Agency, will target inspections to areas where the risks to human health and the environment arising from failing septic tanks and other on-site waste water treatment systems are greatest. The local authorities will be responsible for implementing the plan within their functional areas. The national inspection plan will be updated by the Agency at least once every five years, having regard to the outcomes of inspections and technical advancements in the area of waste water treatment. While the objective of the legislation is to identify treatment systems which may be causing risks to public health and the environment, and to ensure the removal of such risks, it is simply not possible to speculate whether or not there will continue to be treatment systems causing pollution once the new arrangements are in place.
20 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when he will meet the Priory Hall residents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5722/12]
Dublin City Council is the designated authority with powers to enforce the statutory requirements arising under the Fire Safety Act, the Building Control Acts and the Planning and Development Acts, all of which are at issue in relation to Priory Hall. The Council is also the designated housing authority under the Housing Acts. The legal proceedings in relation to Priory Hall are continuing and it would be inappropriate to anticipate their conclusion.
My own responsibility, as Minister, is to ensure that appropriate statutory requirements, technical standards and administrative provisions are put in place under the relevant legislation. This responsibility is not in dispute. I have no role in relation to enforcement activity or in relation to the direct provision of housing services. Residents at Priory Hall and their representatives have previously been advised of this standing division of responsibilities. In the circumstances, it would not be appropriate for me to meet the residents at this point. While I appreciate the very difficult circumstances which they are experiencing I must act appropriately and within my powers, particularly in a case such as this which is already the subject of legal proceedings.
The overriding priority is to facilitate the return by residents to their homes as early as possible. In this respect it will be necessary to ensure that these homes are made fit for purpose and that the costs of so doing fall where they should. I have asked Dublin City Council to do all within its powers to achieve this objective and I have asked my Department to continue to liaise closely with Dublin City Council in this regard. I urge all concerned to allow the Council to continue to deal with this situation in line with the standard arrangements in place for the discharge of its statutory functions.
21 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of transfers he envisages the rental accommodation scheme will receive this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5793/12]
In 2011, 6,337 households were transferred by housing authorities from rent supplement to the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) or other social housing accommodation. Of this figure, 4,234 were accommodated directly under RAS with the balance accommodated under other social housing options. Added to transfers in previous years, since RAS commenced in 2004, a total of 37,759 households have been transferred from rent supplement. A broadly similar output level to that of 2011 is expected for RAS this year.
22 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the steps that have been taken to address problems with unfinished estates; the amount of money available to rectify immediate and ongoing problems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5787/12]
24 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the progress made in the development of a plan to resolve the issues surrounding ghost estates; and in particular the progress that has been made with an estate (details supplied) in County Laois. [5904/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 22 and 24 together.
I am chairing the National Co-ordination Committee on Unfinished Housing Developments to oversee implementation of the Report of the Advisory Group on Unfinished Housing Developments, together with the Government's response to the recommendations. The Committee includes representatives from the Irish Banking Federation, local authorities, the Housing and Sustainable Communities Agency, NAMA and the construction sector. The Committee is meeting on a regular basis with the aim of publishing a report on progress achieved within the next 12 months. In the meantime, work is ongoing on implementation of the Report of the Advisory Group and real progress is already being made with regard to the public safety works required to improve the living conditions of existing residents on some unfinished estates. To date, my Department has made allocations totalling €2,548,305 to fifteen local authorities from the funding allocation made available to address immediate safety issues.
The types of works that have been approved to date include:
fencing off of unsecured and hazardous areas,
capping of pipes,
installation of street lighting, and
other works to secure sites.
Planning authorities are also making progress in securing the co-operation of developers, financial institutions, both domestic and foreign owned, and/or bond holders, thereby obviating the need to use Exchequer resources to fund such work. In the case of the Estate referred to in Question 24, my Department understands that this development is in the hands of a receiver who is responsible for the estate.
23 Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of social housing units that will be built in the next three years. [5922/12]
51 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of social housing units that will be built in the next three years. [5914/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 23 and 51 together.
In line with the significant reduction in the capital funding available to my Department the scope for construction of new social housing units in the medium term will be very constrained. This is reflected in the Government's Housing Policy Statement of June 2011 which sets out the measures which will be taken to address housing need in an innovative solution-based approach which recognises the financial reality which must be faced. My Department asked housing authorities to submit their proposals for consideration for funding under the Social Housing Investment Programme for the next three years by the end of January. Once the proposals submitted have been assessed it will be possible to estimate the number of new social units to be built over the period. I hope to be in a position to make announcements in relation to budgets or allocations for the various housing supply programmes in early March.
26 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, in respect of local authority mortgages, the progress made on measures to deal with the issues relating to distressed housing loans. [5899/12]
My Department issued comprehensive guidance to local authorities on the treatment of mortgage arrears, including local authority mortgages for shared ownership transactions, in March 2010. That guidance was closely based on the Central Bank's first statutory Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears to ensure that cases of local authority mortgage arrears are handled in a manner that is sympathetic to the needs of the particular household, while also protecting the position of the local authority concerned. To reflect the content of the Central Bank's revised Code of Conduct — which replaced the previous code from 1 January 2011 and was informed by the deliberations of the Expert Group on Mortgage Arrears and Personal Debt — my Department is currently preparing updated guidance to local authorities in consultation with the City and County Managers Association.
Where any borrower, either from a local authority or from a private financial institution, is facing difficulties in meeting mortgage repayments, they should engage proactively and constructively with the lender to seek to achieve an agreed solution. The services of the Money Advice and Budgeting Service are also available to such borrowers and support is available through the Supplementary Welfare Allowance Scheme.
In addition Section 34 of Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 provides local authorities with powers to deal flexibly with distressed borrowers.
28 Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if city and council manager new entrants will continue to be awarded added years and special severance gratuity payments on retirement. [5901/12]
45 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will consider rescinding added years and special severance gratuity payments to current city and council managers on retirement. [5902/12]
48 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to tackle the high pay, pension and abatement arrangements for city and county managers. [5900/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 28, 45 and 48 together.
I refer to the reply to Question No. 137 of 1 February 2012, which sets out the position in these matters.
30 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he is reviewing the national spatial strategy; his plans for a review; the timeframe that exists for such a review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5778/12]
The 2002 National Spatial Strategy (NSS) is a twenty-year planning framework designed to achieve a better balance of social, economic and physical development and population growth between regions, and it provides the spatial vision and principles for statutory regional planning guidelines across eight regions and for development plans at a local level.
A comprehensive review of implementation of the NSS was undertaken during 2010, culminating in the publication in October 2010 of the NSS Update and Outlook Report (available at www.environ.ie). This report reaffirms the commitment to implementing long-term planning frameworks such as the NSS and identifies new priorities and objectives to deliver more consistent implementation at all levels, taking account of experience since 2002 and the new environmental, budgetary and economic challenges that we are currently facing. In particular, the 2010 Report identifies a series of actions in respect of:
better alignment and prioritisation of sectoral infrastructure investment,
improved governance at national, regional and local levels, and
the promotion of more sustainable patterns of development, both in rural and urban contexts, through more effective, evidence-based planning policies, with the aim of maximising the role of NSS implementation in supporting overall economic recovery.
In addition, the adoption of updated Regional Planning Guidelines in 2010 for the twelve-year period to 2022 and the new legislative provisions to include core strategies in development plans, taking account of regional policies, targets and priorities, are further embedding the NSS principles into the forward-planning process, and should help to deliver more co-ordinated, coherent and sustainable planning outcomes.
My Department will as necessary consider the need for any further such review in the light of the current evolving economic circumstances and the beneficial deployment of the currently more constrained resources.
31 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the timeframe for the Knocknaheeny regeneration project, Cork; and the steps being taken to ensure its is completed within this timeframe. [5921/12]
My Department provided funding of €12.2 million to Cork City Council in 2011 for the delivery of two major regeneration projects at Knocknaheeny and the Glen. A major focus of the regeneration programme in 2011 was the completion of the review of the Knocknaheeny regeneration master plan. This revised plan, now covering a wider area including Hollyhill, recently received support from both the City Council and the community and represents a significant step forward for the regeneration of the area.
The revised master plan presents a much broader view, beyond a simple upgrading of the housing stock, to address the underlying issues of social exclusion and socio-economic disadvantage. This plan builds on the foundations of previous initiatives, including the redevelopment of Knocknaheeny Block D which delivered 78 refurbished dwellings, 42 new housing units and the well-known "drum" community centre.
I intend to make sufficient funding available under the 2012 allocations to enable real progress to be made in implementing the revised plan. My Department will liaise closely with Cork City Council in the context of determining the work programme for 2012 and the associated necessary capital allocations, within the wider National Regeneration Programme. At this stage, it seems likely that the programme will deliver the first relocations to facilitate demolition, public realm upgrades including addressing areas of anti-social behaviour, and significant investment in social regeneration activities including improvements to McSwiney Hall. My Department will also be supporting the delivery of the Glen Phase II new housing project.
36 Deputy Joe Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on whether compliance with the building regulations relating to fire safety cannot be delivered in the case of timber-frame housing unless construction is monitored at all crucial stages by building inspectors competent in fire safety inspection; and if he will indicate when he will introduce such a necessary system of monitoring fire safety compliance during construction. [5926/12]
Since 1 June 1992, all new, extended or materially altered buildings, including those which have timber frame structures, must be built in compliance with the requirements of the national Building Regulations. Primary responsibility for compliance with the requirements of the Building Regulations rests with the designers, builders and owners of buildings. Implementation and enforcement of the building control system is a matter for the local building control authority.
An Irish standard for Timber Frame Dwellings, I.S. 440, was published in June 2009 by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) which specifies the requirements for timber frame construction for dwelling houses and apartment blocks. It specifies all the requirements which must be adhered to for materials, design, manufacture, construction details, site work and quality control.
A full review of Part A (Structure) of the Building Regulations, and the accompanying Technical Guidance Document A, has recently been completed by my Department in conjunction with the Building Regulations Advisory Body. The revised Part A /TGD A will, among other things, refer to I.S. 440. Where works are carried out in accordance with this guidance, this will, prima facie, indicate compliance with the Regulations. The amended Part A regulations will be signed into law in the coming weeks.
A review of Part B (Fire Safety)/Technical Guidance Document B is currently under way.
37 Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will report on the implementation of The Way Home, the national homeless strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5723/12]
43 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the timeframe envisaged for the review and renewal of the strategy to end homelessness. [5911/12]
58 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to set a new deadline for the ending of long-term homelessness. [5916/12]
59 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to set a new deadline for the ending of long-term homelessness. [5910/12]
60 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the timeframe envisaged for the review and renewal of the strategy to end homelessness. [5917/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 37, 43 and 58 to 60, inclusive, together.
The Programme for Government commits to reviewing and updating the current homeless strategy and to adopting a "housing-led" approach to homelessness. Work now under way on updating the strategy is almost complete and will involve the establishment of clear performance targets and associated timelines. Targets should not be simply aspirational but should be realistic, measurable and achievable. A particular emphasis will necessarily be on the delivery of accommodation units for homeless persons through the policy approach outlined in the Housing Policy Statement of June 2011.
Although it is regrettable that we did not reach the target of ending long term homelessness by the end of 2010, as envisaged by the current homeless strategy, the commitment remains as strong as ever and I am ensuring it continues to be a priority in 2012. However, much progress has been made in otherwise implementing the strategy including inter alia:
the publication of a detailed Implementation Plan in April 2009, which set out a range of priority actions to be undertaken to deliver on the six strategic aims of the Strategy;
new legislative provisions in the Housing Act 2009 that came into force on 1 February 2010, which put Homelessness Fora and Homelessness Action Plans on a statutory basis and are now being implemented at regional and local level;
the adoption in 2010 by the 34 City and County Councils of their statutory Homelessness Action Plans;
annual provision of current funding to provide for sufficient bed capacity to accommodate all those in need of emergency accommodation nationwide and to deliver on the commitment to eliminate the need for persons to involuntarily sleep rough;
the ongoing reconfiguration of existing emergency or transitional homeless facilities to provide a substantial number of secure long-term tenancies for homeless persons;
the development of a scheme, Support to Live Independently, to provide visiting supports for persons leaving homelessness which assists people progress from homelessness to independent living in mainstream housing and forms an important element of follow up action to end long term homelessness, by co-ordinating appropriate tenancy and other supports to meet each individuals needs in their local community setting; and
the new homelessness on-line data and bed management system PASS which is now operational in Dublin and to be rolled out nationally this year.
The National Implementation Plan for the Homeless Strategy also provides for the development of a more devolved allocation-based system for the provision of accommodation-related funding to housing authorities with emphasis on increased decision making at local level, in lieu of the existing individual project based arrangements, to improve overall efficiency, value for money and greater local decision making in homeless services.
A Protocol which sets outs arrangements and responsibilities for delegation of Section 10, Housing Act, 1988 funding between the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government and Dublin City Council in relation to the provision of ongoing revenue funding for homeless accommodation and related service costs has already being put in place in the Dublin region beginning 1 January 2012 and will be rolled out nationally to the other regions at the earliest opportunity.
38 Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, with reference to his reply to a Topical Issue debate on 24 January 2012 regarding the plight of the residents of the Priory Hall apartment building, Dublin, during which he made a statement (details supplied), if he will accept that the statutory requirements and technical standards relating to construction have been demonstrated to be totally inadequate at Priory Hall and many other developments in the absence of site monitoring by competent building inspectors at all the crucial stages of construction; and his plans to introduce such a necessary system of monitoring. [5894/12]
46 Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he is putting together a contingency plan to assist the residents of Priory Hall, Dublin, in the event that the Supreme Court overturns the High Court judgment in relation to the provision of temporary accommodation, the costs of which are currently being met by Dublin City Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5924/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 46 together.
The legal requirements applicable to the design and construction of new buildings, including dwellings, are specified in the second schedule to the Building Regulations. Technical Guidance Documents are published by my Department to demonstrate how the legal requirements can be achieved in practice. Compliance with the regulations is first and foremost the responsibility of the owner or builder of a building. Enforcement of the Regulations is the responsibility of the local building control authority (Dublin City Council in the case of the development at Priory Hall) which is empowered to carry out inspections and to initiate enforcement proceedings where appropriate.
Notwithstanding the above, I am committed to strengthening the system to ensure stronger compliance with, and oversight of, the requirements of the Building Regulations. Local authorities and construction industry professionals in particular have a key role in this regard. In this context, I announced, in July 2011, a number of measures to further strengthen the existing regulatory regime. In broad terms the measures will involve:—
(a) the introduction of mandatory certificates of compliance by builders and designers of buildings confirming that the statutory requirements of the Building Regulations have been met;
(b) the lodgement of drawings at both commencement and completion of construction, demonstrating how the building has been designed and built to comply with all parts of the Building Regulations;
(c) more efficient pooling of building control staff and resources across the local authority sector to ensure more effective and meaningful oversight of building activity;
(d) standardised approaches and common protocols to ensure nationwide consistency in the administration of building control functions;
(e) better support and further development of the building control function nationwide.
The above reforms will have the capacity to improve the quality of buildings following their introduction as early as possible in 2012. Professionals who are engaged by developers will be required to ensure that construction at least meets the legal minimum standards and there is an urgent need for the construction professions to deliver high standards and professionalism in the construction field.
The legal proceedings in relation to Priory Hall are continuing and it would be inappropriate to anticipate their conclusion. The overriding priority is to facilitate the return by residents to their homes as early as possible. In this respect it will be necessary to ensure that these homes are made fit for purpose and that the costs of so doing fall where they should. I have asked Dublin City Council to do all within its powers to achieve this objective and I have asked my Department to continue to liaise closely with Dublin City Council in this regard.
41 Deputy Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will disclose the percentage of the €12.8 million made available to Roscommon Integrated Development Company that has been given out in grant aid to companies in its catchment area; and the number of jobs created by companies funded by the RIDC. [4107/12]
I presume the question refers to funding awarded to Roscommon Integrated Development Company under the Rural Development Programme. Funding of €427m is available under Axes 3 and 4 (LEADER) of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2007-2013 for allocation to qualifying projects up to the end of 2013. In line with European policy the programme is permitted a further two years, to the end of 2015, to realise approved commitments as expenditure.
There are 35 Local Action Groups contracted, on my Department's behalf, to deliver the RDP throughout the country and these groups are the principal decision-makers in relation to the allocation of project funding. Such decisions are made in the context of the individual group's local development strategy and in line with Departmental operating rules and EU regulations.
The main aims and objectives of the Axes 3 and 4 of the RDP are to improve the quality of life in rural areas and to support the diversification of the rural economy. The Programme is broken down into a series of measures under which support can be given by Groups to private individuals and community groups in order to achieve these aims. Three measures provide direct support to projects that increase economic activity and three provide for a broader range of supports for the development of vibrant rural communities. There is also a training and development measure and a measure to facilitate cooperation between RDP groups at both National and International level.
Roscommon Integrated Development Company (RIDC) is the company contracted by my Department to deliver Axes 3 and 4 of the RDP in Co Roscommon with an overall programme allocation of €12,838,021.00. To date RIDC have spent €2,286,223.28 which accounts for 18% of their overall allocation. This can be further broken down to support provided directly to projects that improve economic activity which amounts to €784,971.06 and projects to support community activity which to date amounts to €1,206,989.91. There is a further €976,838.75 of commitments at an advanced stage of development in RIDC and €848,266.53 in the early stages of the project life cycle.
The programme in general does not provide 100% funding for such projects and beneficiaries are required to match the RDP funding with their own resources. I accept that the current economic climate makes it difficult for entrepreneurs and small businesses to access the required level of matched funding and as a result groups, including RIDC, are finding it difficult to bring business start up projects to completion. My Department is currently looking at ways to address areas where groups are having difficulty spending to ensure that the financial resources of the RDP are made available to as many rural dwellers as possible.
RIDC has supported the creation of 8.75 jobs and has also provided and will continue to provide significant financial resources to communities to develop facilities and amenities in their local areas. I believe that community facilities not only promote social cohesion but also have a positive effect on the local rural economy and the provision of support for such facilities can, and does, make a significant contribution to overall economic development, particularly in rural areas. In this context, I am confident that there is significant work being done by RIDC to ensure that the resources available under Axes 3 and 4 of the RDP are being made available to both individuals and community groups in County Roscommon.
42 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which he can put in place provisions for future requirements in respect of the domestic drinking water supply in all areas throughout the country, with particular reference to source, transmission, storage and prevention of any possible contamination; the extent to which the total requirement has been determined; the likely cost, if known; the time within which he can expect to finalise any such matters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5872/12]
197 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which the future sources of domestic drinking water have been identified, with particular reference to the need to make adequate provision in respect of such requirements throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6174/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 42 and 197 together.
The overall strategy of investment in water services is to ensure that the timing and scale of investment facilitates economic and other development, achieves compliance with statutory requirements and promotes environmental sustainability objectives. The main vehicle for achieving these objectives for public domestic water supplies is the multi-annual Water Services Investment Programme. The Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012 is available in the Oireachtas Library.
The Programme provides for the commencement of contracts with a value of over €800m in relation to water supply infrastructure. This includes contracts to address deficiencies in the quality of supply, to improve the overall capacity of the system and an accelerated programme of mains rehabilitation. The Programme also provides for the advancement of a further range of schemes through planning, for progression to construction in future investment cycles.
The Programme is based on an assessment of needs for water and sewerage services undertaken by each water services authority which were subsequently appraised by my Department. In preparing their assessments, water services authorities were required to take into consideration key environmental and economic criteria in prioritising contracts and schemes to be progressed in their areas. The development of the Programme was strongly influenced by reports by the Environmental Protection Agency on drinking water quality, an assessment by Forfás of the requirements of enterprise in Gateways and Hubs, as well as River Basin Management Plans. In addition, a detailed project appraisal is undertaken during the planning phase of each scheme, which determines issues such as the appropriate source of water, projected future demand and the most cost effective solution to meeting needs. There is, therefore, a strong evidence base, from technical assessments, environmental monitoring and policy studies to underpin the strategic direction of water services capital investment.
In order to create efficiencies, improve service delivery and achieve cost savings in the delivery of water services, the Programme for Government provides for the establishment of a new State-owned national water authority to take over responsibility for managing and supervising investment in water services infrastructure. The Memorandum of Understanding between Ireland and the EU/IMF commits Ireland to undertaking an independent assessment of the establishment of such an authority.
The first phase of work on the independent assessment has been completed and has been published as part of a public consultation which will conclude on 24 February 2012. The report set outs an outline transition plan for the establishment of Irish Water and following on from the consultation process, phase two of the independent assessment will set out a more detailed implementation plan. This plan will take account of the need to ensure that this critical public service delivered efficiently during the transition and that there is no loss of momentum in the delivery of key projects.
47 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the progress made to date on addressing the issue of funding food projects under the Leader programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5719/12]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 340 of 17 January 2012 which sets out the position in this matter.
I am not in a position to make any decisions regarding additional funds for the types of project referred to at this time. Any such decision will be made in the context of the overall budgetary situation in due course.
49 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the purpose of including questions on water on the application form for the household charge; if he intends to retain that information within his Department or if it will be provided to any other body or agency; if so, whether there are data protection implications; of the 1.6 million households which are estimated to be liable to pay the charge, the number who might qualify for a waiver; if common guidelines have been issued to local authorities in relation to waivers; if so, the contents of same; the estimated number of households that will qualify; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5716/12]
The Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 and the Local Government (Household Charge) Regulations 2012 provide the legislation underpinning the household charge.
Section 6 of the Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 provides for the preparation and maintenance of a database of residential property in the State. It provides that information for the purposes of the database may include details of the accommodation, facilities and services available in respect of properties. It is in this context that the information on water supply is required.
The Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) is administering the household charge system on a shared service/agency basis for all county and city councils. The LGMA is collecting and holding all of the data for the purposes of the household charge.
Section 14 of the Act provides for data sharing and exchange for the purposes of the household charge. Officials from my Department have met recently with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner in relation to the operation of the data sharing provisions in the legislation. It has been agreed that protocols will be developed for the exchange of data in consultation with that Office and with relevant agencies/bodies in advance of utilisation of the legislative provisions of the Act.
The waivers which apply under section 4 of the Act concern—
Owners of residential property entitled to mortgage interest supplement, and
Owners of houses in certain prescribed unfinished housing estates.
It is estimated that there are some 18,000 households in receipt of mortgage supplement and some 34,000 properties in unfinished housing estates eligible to claim a waiver from payment of the household charge. Guidelines as such have not been issued by my Department to local authorities on the waivers available under the Act. However, the Schedule in the 2012 Regulations contains the list of developments prescribed for the purposes of the unfinished estates waiver. The LGMA website www.householdcharge.ie includes further details on the household charge, including frequently asked questions.
50 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the timetable for the establishment of an Irish water utility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5720/12]
The programme for Government provides for the establishment of a new State-owned national water authority, Irish Water, to take over responsibility for managing and supervising investment in water services infrastructure and to manage the domestic water metering programme. The Memorandum of Understanding between Ireland and the EU/IMF commits Ireland to undertaking an independent assessment of the establishment of such an authority.
The first phase of work on the independent assessment has been completed and has been published as part of a public consultation which will conclude on 24 February 2012. The report set outs an outline transition plan for the establishment of Irish Water which would involve the appointment of an interim board and Project Management Office in 2012. Irish Water would be established under its own statute by mid 2013 at which point ownership of assets would transfer from local authorities to Irish Water. Local authorities would be agents of Irish Water for a period with Irish Water taking over their operations on a phased basis from January 2015. The full transfer of operations would be completed by end 2017.
Phase two of the independent assessment will set out a more detailed implementation plan and it is expected that this plan will be completed in April 2012 following on from the consultation process.
52 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the duration of lease terms for National Asset Management Agency properties designated for social housing; and the mixture of tenure approach that will be taken. [5912/12]
61 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the duration of lease terms for National Asset Management Agency properties designated for social housing; and the mixture of tenure approach that will be taken. [5918/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 52 and 61 together.
The units being advanced by NAMA will in general be provided through the Social Housing Leasing Initiative under the standard terms and conditions that apply. The length of lease is determined by negotiation which may vary to reflect the circumstances of a particular case and the terms of the contractual agreement. Generally leases entered into by housing authorities are for periods of ten to twenty years. The properties under consideration are part of the security for loans that NAMA has acquired. In the majority of cases, properties remain in the ownership of the original borrowers. The remaining properties are controlled by receivers appointed by NAMA. Once a demand has been identified, NAMA will make contact with the relevant property owner/receiver to determine if the properties are still available and to discuss how these properties can be best utilised.
It is expected that the majority of suitable properties will be secured through leasing arrangements with the property owners/receivers. Such arrangements will be determined on a case by case basis, and will involve either a local authority or an approved housing body as the prospective social housing provider depending on the particular circumstances in each case.
The Housing Agency is working with housing authorities and NAMA to determine whether there is a social housing demand for the properties identified. Where a demand is identified, this information will be provided to NAMA and arrangements will be made to secure as many of the suitable properties as possible for social housing.
53 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the full requirement in terms of local authority housing needs at present, with particular reference to the means of those who may have lost their jobs and their homes through repossession as a consequence; if he will review the procedures whereby such persons are admissible to the local authority housing waiting list; if it is anticipated that extra housing units can be accessed or provided directly by whatever means with the objective of ensuring that empty housing estates around the country are utilised to obviate the need for rent support; if he has quantified the full extent of the requirement in terms of both the existing housing waiting list and those seeking to access this waiting list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5873/12]
The Government is acutely conscious of the difficulties many households are facing in terms of mortgage arrears. In October 2011 we published the Report of the Inter-Departmental Working Group on Mortgage Arrears and implementation of the report's recommendations is a key part of the Government's ongoing efforts to tackle mortgage difficulty.
A Steering Group, chaired by the Department of Finance, has been established to oversee and drive the overall implementation of the report's recommendations and to report regularly to the Economic Management Council and to Government on this. In addition to the Department of Finance, the Steering Group includes the Departments of the Environment, Community and Local Government, Justice and Equality, Social Protection and Public Expenditure and Reform. The Central Bank is also represented on the Group.
Separate working groups, established to progress the individual work streams of this broad work area, report to the overall Steering Group. Significant progress has already been achieved across a number of the individual work areas.
The Minister for Justice and Equality has produced the General Scheme of a Personal Insolvency Bill
On "mortgage to rent", my Department has advanced work with a number of lenders and an approved housing body to pilot a scheme which will test the practicalities of such a measure in advance of wider implementation.
Regarding engagement with the banks, the Central Bank, as the regulator of credit institutions, has now received mortgage arrears resolution strategies and implementation plans from all mortgage lenders and these are being considered by the Central Bank.
Work has also commenced on the necessary steps to put in place the mortgage advisory function as recommended by the Inter-Departmental group.
In addition, my Department had already taken steps to take account of the critical interface between the Central Bank's Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process and the social housing needs assessment process. New provisions, introduced under the Social Housing Assessment Amendment Regulations introduced in July 2011, now enable an authority to carry out a needs assessment at any time after a mortgage has been deemed to be unsustainable and before repossession proceedings have been instituted. My Department does not hold information on the number of households on local authorities' waiting lists, or on the number of households that may, at some point in the future, apply for social housing. The number of households on waiting lists continuously fluctuates as households are allocated housing and new households apply for housing support. Detailed information on the latest statutory assessment of housing need carried out in March 2011, including a breakdown by housing authority, is available onmy Department's website —www.environ.ie or on the Housing Agency’s website at www.housing.ie.
54 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government how the planned regenerations of Limerick, St. Theresa’s Gardens, Tom Kelly Road, St. Michael’s Estate, O’Devaney Gardens and Dominick Street will proceed with a diminishing capital budget; and the progress made to date in each project. [5909/12]
This Government remains fully committed to supporting a number of area based and estate-wide regeneration projects under the National Regeneration Programme, including projects in Limerick city and elsewhere as well as estates and flat complexes in Dublin city. Notwithstanding the constraints on capital budgets, my Department continues to prioritise funding for regeneration within the wider Social Housing Investment Programme. As a proportion of the overall funding available for social housing, its relative importance rose from 11% in 2010 to almost 25% of the total programme in 2011, with an investment of some €118 million. The regeneration programme, and ensuring that it is adequately resourced, remains a key element of the Government's housing policy for 2012 and beyond.
In terms of the projects referred to, it is worth noting that the investment in the Limerick Regeneration, Ballymun, and the Inner City Flats and Former PPP Projects, accounted for 82% of the overall investment in regeneration last year at €96.2 million. It is my intention to ensure that sufficient funding for my Department's social housing programme is made available in 2012 to deliver real progress in the case of each of these projects, having regard to their particular stage of development and in the context of the wider programme.
My Department is currently liaising closely with relevant local authorities and agencies in determining the regeneration work programme for 2012. I intend to announce details of the capital allocations under the housing programme, including the allocations for regeneration, as soon as possible after this process has been concluded.
56 Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, in formulating plans for the new property tax, whether allowances will be made available for those homeowners who paid large amounts of stamp duty during the property boom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5718/12]
The Government has decided to establish an Inter-Departmental expert Group to consider the structures and modalities for an equitable valuation based property tax. This Group will complete its work and make recommendations to me by end April 2012. Following consideration of the Group's recommendations, I will bring proposals to Government on the property tax as soon as possible. It will then be a matter for the Government to decide on the modalities of the property tax.
57 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to encourage financial institutions to lend money on a fixed rate to voluntary housing associations for the development of their housing stock. [5915/12]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 5 on today's Order Paper which sets out the position in this matter.
Questions Nos. 58 to 60, inclusive, answered with Question No. 37.
Question No. 61 answered with Question No. 52.
62 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 10 of 5 October 2011, if the forum on philanthropy and fundraising has completed its interim report; if so, the recommendations of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5509/12]
The Forum on Philanthropy and Fundraising has set out a target to increase philanthropic giving by ten percent year on year in Ireland from its current level of some €500m per annum to €800m by 2016. The Forum presented its interim report to me on 15 November 2011 in advance of the 2012 estimates; this set out the main strategic recommendations of the Forum.
The Forum has now completed its final report which includes an implementation plan. The report's recommendations fall under four headings:
A National "Giving Campaign";
Improving the fiscal environment and infrastructure for giving;
Developing fundraising capacity among not-for-profits;
Creating a National Social Innovation Fund.
I intend to bring the final report to Cabinet and publish it in the near future.
63 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of incidents involving Irish citizens abroad which required consular assistance through Ireland’s embassies in 2011; the number of times Irish citizens availed of the services of the embassy of another EU member state when there was no Irish diplomatic representation available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6088/12]
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, through its Consular Assistance Section and Crisis Planning Unit, Embassies, Consulates and Honorary Consuls, provided consular assistance to 1,506 Irish citizens involved in 1,342 incidents abroad in 2011. This does not include the number of Irish citizens who were assisted during the large number of crises abroad in 2011 including the earthquakes in Japan and New Zealand and the uprisings in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, Bahrain, Syria etc. for which we do not have complete statistics available. My Department does not have statistics for assistance received from Embassies of other EU member states.
64 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding trade missions to China; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6108/12]
Trade missions are a valuable support to Irish business in developing the exports which are crucial to our economic recovery. This is particularly the case in countries where Government-to-Government contacts are a prerequisite for doing business. My Department and our Embassy network work closely with the agencies and other Government Departments regarding the organisation of such missions. A programme of Minister-led trade missions, organised in association with Enterprise Ireland to develop and expand Ireland's exports to existing and new markets abroad, is planned for next year. The full range of destinations is still being finalised at this stage, and will most likely include a trade mission to China.
I hope to visit China on an official visit at a mutually convenient date in 2012. This visit will provide an opportunity to build on the excellent bilateral relations that exist between our two countries; to have discussions with my opposite number in China on matters of mutual concern; to promote Irish interests; and to further enhance our political, trade, investment, education and tourism links with China.
The Government attaches great importance to widening and deepening bilateral relations with China, including the political and economic relationships. China is a key high-growth and high-potential market for Ireland under the Strategy and Action Plan for Irish Trade, Tourism and Investment to 2015. The local market team, set up under the Strategy, includes all of the State Agencies present in China in addition to the Embassy in Beijing and the Consulate-General in Shanghai. The team is chaired by our Ambassador in Beijing and has been actively working to build on our growing economic and trade relationships with China.
Ireland had a modest trade surplus with China in 2010. Total merchandise trade between Ireland and China was worth almost €5.6 billion in 2010. Trade in services during the same period was worth €2.7 billion. Over 130 Irish companies now have a permanent business presence in China — an increase of 300% over the last five years.
65 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding his recent visit to Japan; his plans to visit again; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6109/12]
I paid a visit to Japan from 12 to 13 October 2011 and the main focus of which was on trade promotion. Included in my itinerary were several business events, organised by the Embassy and agencies — Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland. I held a meeting with the Chief Secretary of Japan, Mr. Osamu Fujimura on economic, political and trade matters. I availed of the opportunity to raise the current ban on the export of Irish beef to Japan.
During my visit I met members of the Europe Committee of Keidanren (a representative body for Japanese companies) as well as representatives from key Enterprise Ireland and IDA clients. I briefed on the progress being made towards Ireland's economic recovery and encouraged trade and investment with Ireland.
I also met the Japanese Red Cross Society and was briefed on the impact of the earthquake and tidal wave-tsunami which affected coastal communities in March 2011 and on their continuing efforts towards the reconstruction and rehabilitation of those communities.
During this substantive visit to Japan I conveyed key messages about the progress being made in Ireland's economic recovery to the Japanese Government, business and media. I am confident that this visit will promote trade and investment and advance our efforts to restore Ireland's beef trade.
66 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will reverse the decision to close Ireland’s embassy in the Vatican; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6110/12]
As was outlined in my statement of 3 November last year, the decision of the Government to close our embassy to the Holy See and to appoint a non-resident Ambassador was driven by economic factors deriving from our need to cut public expenditure and focus the modest resources of our diplomatic service on economic recovery. The total cost saving in a full year is estimated at €845,000. The Government will continue to review our diplomatic network and it may be that, as public finances recover, we will at some time in the future be able to reopen a modest resident embassy to the Holy See.
68 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Finance the basis for the decision to phase out the age tax credit; and how this will be conducted over the course of the next four years. [5935/12]
The position is that in Budget 2011, the previous Government reduced the value of the age tax credits by approximately 25 per cent from €325/€650 to €245/€490 for single and married respectively with a view to them being abolished over four years. As the Deputy is aware, in line with the commitment in the Programme for Government, there have been no changes in tax rates, tax bands or personal tax credits in Budget 2012.
Any tax changes for future years will be considered as part of the Government's ongoing budgetary and fiscal policy.
69 Deputy Michael P. Kitt asked the Minister for Finance how the increase in VAT from 1 January 2012 is calculated in relation to utility companies and agencies which issue bills covering December 2011 and January 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5946/12]
The increase in the standard rate of VAT from 21% to 23% applies with effect from 1 January 2012. In the case of continuous supplies of telecommunications services, electricity or gas, for which a bill is issued at least every three months, the rate of VAT that should be charged is the rate in force at the date of issue of the bill. In all other cases of services to private individuals, the correct rate is the rate in force at the time of supply of the services. The Revenue Commissioners have published a comprehensive information note about the application of the increase in the standard rate of VAT, whichis available on their website —http://www.revenue.ie/en/tax/vat/leaflets/increase-in-standard-rate.html.
70 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding EBS mortgage repayments for persons on welfare. [5974/12]
I assume that the Deputy is referring to the Mortgage Interest Supplement Scheme which is administered by the Department of Social Protection. I have been advised by that Department that the purpose of the Mortgage Interest Supplement Scheme is to provide short term income to eligible persons who are unable to meet their mortgage interest repayments in respect of a house which is their sole place of residence. The supplement assists only with the interest portion of the mortgage repayments. The capital element of the repayment is not taken into account in calculating the amount of supplement payable as it is not considered appropriate that the Exchequer should repay part of the initial loan and thereby provide assistance towards the accumulation of a capital asset on the part of the individual concerned. The Scheme applies to mortgages held by EBS customers in the same manner as it applies to all other mortgages.
I have also been informed that, under Social Welfare rules, the supplement is calculated to ensure that a person, after the payment of the mortgage interest, has an income equal to the rate of Social Welfare appropriate to their family circumstances less a minimum contribution which recipients are required to pay from their own resources. Many recipients pay more than the minimum contribution because recipients are also required, subject to income disregards, to contribute any additional assessable means that they have over and above the appropriate basic Social Welfare rate towards their accommodation costs.
71 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Finance if he will issue a breakdown of the remuneration packages in place for chief executive officers of all semi-State companies here as of 27 January 2011, specifying in detail any bonus, pension, expenses or other arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5991/12]
I am assuming that the Deputy is referring to Semi-State Bodies other than commercial State entities such as the ESB, Bord Gáis, etc. There are no such bodies under the aegis of my Department.
72 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether debit card transactions are third party electronic payments exempted under SI No. 838/2007; if he will confirm that credit unions are associated members of the Irish Payment Services Organisation and will be included in any programme to promote a basic payment account to the unbanked; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6050/12]
Section 48 of the Credit Union Act 1997 provides that a credit union may offer additional services to its members subject to these services appearing to the Central Bank of Ireland to be of mutual benefit to its members. Each credit union is required to apply to the Registrar of Credit Unions for permission to provide the service. However, in cases where a service appears to the Central Bank to generally involve no risk to the assets of the credit union or the funds of its members, the Minister for Finance has powers under Section 48(2) of the Act to make regulations under Section 182, exempting such a service from the requirement to have the separate prior approval of the Registrar.
Statutory Instrument 838/2007
S.I. No. 838/2007 sets out the Credit Union Act 1997 (Exemption from Additional Services Requirements) (Amendment) Regulations 2007. These regulations were made by the then Minister for Finance under Section 182, following consultations with the Registrar of Credit Unions. They provide that individual credit unions can offer any service whereby a credit union member may arrange to have transferred to or from his or her account third party payments by way of electronic funds transfer or otherwise, without requiring the prior approval of the Registrar of Credit Unions at the Central Bank.
The Deputy asks if debit card transactions are exempted under this provision. Debit card transactions cover a broad range of services. The Registrar of Credit Unions advises that, while in general it may be reasonable to expect that debit card transactions would be third party electronic payments, it is not possible to be definitive on this for all circumstances. In addition to the provision of such services being required to meet the requirements under S.I. No. 838/2007, credit unions are also required to meet all legislative and regulatory requirements under the Act including the provisions set out in Section 32(3) of the Act, relating to restrictions on withdrawal of members' savings.
It is up to each credit union to ensure, in the context of the specific nature of the particular debit card transactions proposed, that any service provided to their members is in accordance with the provisions set out in the Credit Union Act 1997. As set out in the Registry of Credit Unions' circular to all credit unions sent on the 27 January 2010, any credit union considering providing new card services (such as ATM cards, Debit Cards, Prepaid Debit Cards) to their members is required to contact the Registry of Credit Unions prior to developing any such services.
The Irish Payment Services Organisation
The Irish Payment Services Organisation (IPSO) is a private representative industry body. I understand that some, but not all, credit unions are associate members of IPSO. The question of their membership is, however, a private issue and is not a matter for me as Minister for Finance.
Government programme to promote a basic payment account
The Final Report on the Strategy for Financial Inclusion which was published on my Department's website in March 2011 identified that the credit unions have the potential to play a key role in the provision of the basic payment account and in the promotion of financial inclusion in the future when they have the necessary technology, infrastructure and legislative framework to handle these services. The Commission on Credit Unions is examining the issue of "social lending" and how credit unions can play a role in providing financial services and products to meet the needs of low income groups and the unbanked.
73 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance the amount of credit card debt here; his plans to deal with same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6072/12]
I am advised by the Central Bank that the outstanding indebtedness on credit cards at end November 2011 was €2.730 billion. This figure is comprised of €2.587 billion debt on personal cards and €143 billion on business cards. The Bank has also advised me that the overall level of indebtedness has been decreasing steadily since August 2010. I have no plans to propose to Government to introduce legislation on credit card debt.
74 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if any evaluation has been carried out of the extent to which business sector borrowing requirements continue to be met in cases in which a number of banking institutions have withdrawn from this economy; if any particular investigations or steps have been taken to ensure the availability of the necessary funds to meet the borrowing requirement of businesses so affected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6120/12]
75 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent, if any, to which the level of lending by the various banks has been monitored over the past three years to date, with particular reference to meeting the working capital requirements of the small business sector; if such requirements are being met in full, partially or not at all; if the latter, the extent of the effect on the economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6121/12]
76 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which he can secure agreement from the banks to meet the borrowing requirements of the business sector, having particular regard to the fact that recapitalisation came at a cost to the economy and the taxpayer and that there is an expectation that in the current economic climate the normal borrowing requirements of the business sector must be met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6122/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 74 to 76, inclusive, together.
The banking system restructuring plan creates capacity for the two Pillar Banks, Bank of Ireland and AIB, to provide lending in excess of €30 billion in the next three years. SME and new mortgage lending for these banks is expected to be in the range of €16-20bn over this period. This lending capacity is incorporated into the banks' deleveraging plans which allow for repayment of Central Bank funding through asset run-off and disposals over the period to 2013.
The Government has imposed lending targets on the two domestic pillar banks for the three calendar years, 2011 to 2013. Both banks were required to sanction lending of at least €3 billion in 2011, €3.5 billion this year and €4 billion in 2013 for new or increased credit facilities to SMEs. Both have indicated that they have achieved their 2011 targets.
In terms of monitoring the level of lending, both pillar banks provide my Department and the Credit Review Office (CRO) with annual lending plans outlining in detail how they will achieve the lending target for SMEs. Both pillar banks also produce quarterly reports which incorporate figures for sanctions and drawdowns by SMEs. In addition, the pillar banks also provide monthly figures on balance sheet volumes, sanctioned facilities and regional and sectoral breakdowns of their SME lending. The data contained in these reports is reviewed and analysed by the Department of Finance and the CRO to ensure that the banks are compliant with the terms of the Government recapitalisation as it relates to the provision of credit for SMEs. In addition, the Economic Management Council will meet on a frequent basis with the pillar banks to discuss a range of issues in relation to SME business including the availability of credit to this important sector.
As regards evaluating whether business sector borrowing requirements continue to be met, my Department commissioned an independent survey of demand for SME credit, the results of which will inform policy decisions in this area. The report was based on responses from 1,506 SMEs and covered the period April-September 2011. The survey showed that:
Demand for Credit
36% of SMEs surveyed requested credit;
64% did not request credit;
Most demand was for cash flow and working capital purposes.
Reasons for not requesting credit
80% did not need it or have sufficient internal reserves/funds;
7% thought or believe the banks are not lending.
Decisions on credit
54% of credit applications were approved;
23% of credit applications were declined; and
23% of credit applications are still pending.
When the pending applications are excluded, the approval rate is 70%.
The full report is available on the Department of Finance website. A follow up survey will be conducted in April 2012 to cover the period from October 2011 to March 2012, with the outcome published shortly afterwards.
In conjunction with the Minister for Small Business, Mr John Perry T.D., the Head of Banking Policy Division in my Department will be holding a series of regional meetings around the country to discuss access to bank credit with key local stakeholders. The purpose of the meetings will be to allow the Minister to hear at first hand the views and experiences of local business representative groups, local bank representatives and state agencies on access to bank lending. These will complement the information provided by the credit demand survey and better inform the design and implementation of future Government policies on credit to the SME sector. The first of these meetings will be held on 3 February in Dundalk and Dublin.
77 Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which he will be involved in drawing up the technical note on refinancing the Anglo Irish Bank promissory notes due by the end of February 2012; the other institutions that were involved in drawing up the technical note, and to what extent; the proposed parameters of the technical note; if submissions from interested parties will be invited prior to finalising the technical note; if the evidence and analysis informing the technical note will be published, and the timeline for publication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6132/12]
As indicated, I am committed to exploring way to reduce the burden to the State of funding the bank recapitalisation without the use of private sector involvement. This includes reviewing the Promissory Note structure. The Troika have agreed to engage in a process with Irish Officials to produce a common paper which will involve consideration of many factors including restructuring the Promissory Note in terms of the source of funding, the duration of the notes, the interest rate etc. As Minister, I am responsible for deciding the overall policy that underpins the technical discussions at official level.
I expect that the report of this group will, in the first instance, form the basis of discussion with the Troika at senior level and from there will be considered by the Commission and the ECB in consultation with us. However, in terms of publication it must be borne in mind that this will be a "common" paper and the parties to the paper would have to agree to its publication. At this point the matter of publication has not been considered.
We have however separately informed the Dail of full details of the Promissory Note structure and I would encourage the Deputy to share any ideas he might have with me and my officials.
78 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will set out the details of the promissory note structure entered into with Irish Bank Resolution Corporation; the role of the Central Bank of Ireland and the European Central Bank in this structure; if he will provide details of how the note enables IBRC to meet its capital requirements; and how he is planning to reduce the burden on the Irish State by redesigning the note with the agreement of the European authorities. [6140/12]
During 2009 it was determined that Anglo and INBS required additional capital. A commitment was provided by the then Minister to Anglo and separately to INBS to provide capital of €8.3 billion and €2.7 billion, respectively. This capital was provided on 31 March 2010. In relation to Anglo, this €8.3 billion of capital was injected by way of a capital contribution. This capital contribution is treated as equity capital for regulatory capital purposes. In relation to INBS, a special investment share was acquired for €100 million in cash and a further €2.6 billion was subsequently injected by way of a capital contribution.
The Government did not pay for these capital contributions in Anglo and INBS with cash. The Government effectively issued an IOU, in the form of promissory notes, to Anglo and INBS for €8.3 billion and €2.6 billion, respectively. As the State had a debt to the institutions, it also had an associated interest charge. This interest charge was set by reference to Government yields at the date of issue on 31 March 2010.
Subsequently, it was determined that Anglo and INBS needed additional capital, which was again provided by increasing the 31 March 2010 promissory notes. The final promissory note increase was on 31 December 2010 bringing the total promissory notes in Anglo and INBS to €30.6 billion. See table below for the increases:
|
€ billion |
Anglo |
INBS |
Total (IBRC) |
|
31 March 2010 |
8.30 |
2.60 |
10.90 |
|
28 May 2010 |
2.00 |
— |
2.00 |
|
23 August 2010 |
8.58 |
— |
8.58 |
|
31 December 2010 |
6.42 |
2.70 |
9.12 |
|
25.30 |
5.30 |
30.60 |
When the final capital contribution was made on 31 December 2011 an interest holiday was inserted into each of the promissory notes which meant that between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2012 no interest was payable. Absent the interest holiday the weighted average interest rate on these promissory notes would have been 5.8%. However, as a result of the insertion of the interest holiday the weighted average interest rate from 1 January 2013 is 8.2%.
While there was an interest holiday this does not affect the promissory note repayments of the principal amount. The cash flows on the promissory notes are 10% (€3.06billion) of the original amount per annum until the full amount is repaid. Set out below is a detailed aggregated schedule of capital repayments and interest payments on the promissory notes:
|
€bn |
Total Interest Paid: A |
Total Capital Reduction: B |
Repayments: A + B |
|
31/03/2011 |
0.55 |
2.51 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2012 |
— |
3.06 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2013 |
0.49 |
2.57 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2014 |
1.84 |
1.22 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2015 |
1.75 |
1.31 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2016 |
1.65 |
1.41 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2017 |
1.55 |
1.51 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2018 |
1.44 |
1.62 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2019 |
1.32 |
1.74 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2020 |
1.19 |
1.87 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2021 |
1.06 |
2.00 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2022 |
0.91 |
2.15 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2023 |
0.75 |
2.31 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2024 |
0.57 |
1.52 |
2.09 |
|
31/03/2025 |
0.45 |
0.47 |
0.91 |
|
31/03/2026 |
0.39 |
0.52 |
0.91 |
|
31/03/2027 |
0.33 |
0.58 |
0.91 |
|
31/03/2028 |
0.26 |
0.65 |
0.91 |
|
31/03/2029 |
0.19 |
0.73 |
0.91 |
|
31/03/2030 |
0.10 |
0.81 |
0.91 |
|
31/03/2031 |
0.01 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
|
16.8 |
30.6 |
47.4 |
* These numbers may not tot exactly as a result of rounding
As set out above, the total interest cost for the State for all tranches of the Anglo and Irish Nationwide promissory notes is €16.8 billion with annual repayments of €3.06 billion per annum until 2023, reducing thereafter until 2031 when the final repayment is made. These annual repayments reduce over time as the various tranches of the promissory notes are repaid. The final payment on the promissory notes of circa €0.1 billion will be made on 31 March 2031. The total cost of the promissory notes including the principal amount and interest will be €47.4 billion over the life of the promissory notes.
The Promissory Note acts as collateral under emergency liquidity assistance (ELA) loan (repo) agreements with the Central bank of Ireland (CBI). The promissory note is, therefore funded by ELA, provided by the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI). This ELA is itself funded by the CBI through Intra-Eurosystem liabilities and any repayments of ELA are used to reduce this liability on the Central Bank's balance sheet. Other than that there is no link between the Promissory Note and ELA.
As the repayment of the capital amount of the Promissory Note and the interest payments fall due the payments will provide cash to IBRC and thereby reduce the bank's requirement for ELA. It is these repayments from the Government's Promissory Note IOU and flows from IBRC's banking assets that will repay ELA over time.
As the Deputy is aware the Government is currently engaged in a process with our Troika partners with a view to re-engineering of the capital commitment to IBRC. This review of the promissory note will consider a range of possible options to reduce the burden on the State including a reduction in the interest rate and consideration as to other possible sources of funding etc.
I expect that the report of the technical group charged with looking at options will, in the first instance, form the basis of discussion with the Troika at senior level and from there will be considered by the Commission and the ECB in consultation with us. If the discussions are successful, it could result in the replacement of these notes with an alternative instrument and a change in the repayment profile of the associated funding. The government's approach in this matter is to vigorously pursue a resolution that is in Ireland's interests but to do so with the agreement of the ECB, the IMF and EC.
79 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that the present value of payments to Irish Bank Resolution Corporation under the terms of the promissory note structure was €30.6 billion at date of issuance; if any change to the timetable for payments could potentially have implications for the solvency of that institution in the absence of additional capital provision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6142/12]
During 2009 it was determined that Anglo and INBS required additional capital. A commitment was provided by the then Minister to Anglo and separately to INBS to provide capital of €8.3 billion and €2.7 billion, respectively. This capital was provided on 31 March 2010. In relation to Anglo, this €8.3 billion of capital was injected by way of a capital contribution. This capital contribution is treated as equity capital for regulatory capital purposes. In relation to INBS, a special investment share was acquired for €100 million in cash and a further €2.6 billion was subsequently injected by way of a capital contribution.
The Government did not pay for these capital contributions in Anglo and INBS with cash. The Government effectively issued an IOU, in the form of promissory notes, to Anglo and INBS for €8.3 billion and €2.6 billion, respectively. As the State had a debt to the institutions, it also had an associated interest charge. This interest charge was set by reference to Government yields at the date of issue on 31 March 2010.
Subsequently, it was determined that Anglo and INBS needed additional capital, which was again provided by increasing the 31 March 2010 promissory notes. The final promissory note increase was on 31 December 2010 bringing the total promissory notes in Anglo and INBS to €30.6 billion. See table below for the increases:
|
€ billion |
Anglo |
INBS |
Total (IBRC) |
|
31 March 2010 |
8.30 |
2.60 |
10.90 |
|
28 May 2010 |
2.00 |
— |
2.00 |
|
23 August 2010 |
8.58 |
— |
8.58 |
|
31 December 2010 |
6.42 |
2.70 |
9.12 |
|
25.30 |
5.30 |
30.60 |
When the final capital contribution was made on 31 December 2011 an interest holiday was inserted into each of the promissory notes which meant that between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2012 no interest was payable. Absent the interest holiday the weighted average interest rate on these promissory notes would have been 5.8%. However, as a result of the insertion of the interest holiday the weighted average interest rate from 1 January 2013 is 8.2%.
While there was an interest holiday this does not affect the promissory note repayments of the principal amount. The cash flows on the promissory notes are 10% (€3.06billion) of the original amount per annum until the full amount is repaid. Set out below is a detailed aggregated schedule of capital repayments and interest payments on the promissory notes:
|
€bn |
Total Interest Paid: A |
Total Capital Reduction: B |
Repayments: A + B |
|
31/03/2011 |
0.55 |
2.51 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2012 |
— |
3.06 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2013 |
0.49 |
2.57 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2014 |
1.84 |
1.22 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2015 |
1.75 |
1.31 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2016 |
1.65 |
1.41 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2017 |
1.55 |
1.51 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2018 |
1.44 |
1.62 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2019 |
1.32 |
1.74 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2020 |
1.19 |
1.87 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2021 |
1.06 |
2.00 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2022 |
0.91 |
2.15 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2023 |
0.75 |
2.31 |
3.06 |
|
31/03/2024 |
0.57 |
1.52 |
2.09 |
|
31/03/2025 |
0.45 |
0.47 |
0.91 |
|
31/03/2026 |
0.39 |
0.52 |
0.91 |
|
31/03/2027 |
0.33 |
0.58 |
0.91 |
|
31/03/2028 |
0.26 |
0.65 |
0.91 |
|
31/03/2029 |
0.19 |
0.73 |
0.91 |
|
31/03/2030 |
0.10 |
0.81 |
0.91 |
|
31/03/2031 |
0.01 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
|
16.8 |
30.6 |
47.4 |
*These numbers may not tot exactly as a result of rounding
As set out above, the total interest cost for the State for all tranches of the Anglo and Irish Nationwide promissory notes is €16.8 billion with annual repayments of €3.06 billion per annum until 2023, reducing thereafter until 2031 when the final repayment is made. These annual repayments reduce over time as the various tranches of the promissory notes are repaid. The final payment on the promissory notes of circa €0.1 billion will be made on 31 March 2031. The total cost of the promissory notes including the principal amount and interest will be €47.4 billion over the life of the promissory notes.
A change in the payment schedule could potentially have implications for the solvency of IBRC. If, for example, the principal and interest payments are changed, to avoid creating a potential solvency problem the interest rate after the deferred period may need to increase to make up for a potential capital shortfall. The solvency of the institution is a prime consideration in the analysis of the options for re-engineering the Promissory Note. This analysis is currently under way and the technical group, comprising of representatives of the Troika and the Irish authorities, will report on their findings.
80 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if it is his policy that the Central Bank of Ireland should not incur a loss on the provision of emergency liquidity assistance to support Irish credit institutions; if he has committed to provide for the Central Bank to receive payment to make good any shortfall that may arise on the provision of such assistance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6143/12]
One of the functions of the Central Bank of Ireland, similar to other central banks, is to grant Exceptional Liquidity Assistance to a credit institution when this is deemed necessary for financial stability purposes. These amounts are published monthly. ELA is one of the ways that the Central Bank has responded to the financial crisis. This is distinct and separate from regular funding operations carried out for monetary policy implementation purposes through the ECB. A loan provided to a credit institution under Exceptional Liquidity Assistance is granted against suitable collateral, where suitability is in line with unpublished criteria defined by the Central Bank. As with procedures for ECB eligible collateral, appropriate haircuts/discounts are applied by the Central Bank to ensure that it does not suffer any loss in the event of default on the loan assistance. I have provided formal comfort to the Central Bank such that any shortfall on the liquidation of this collateral will be made good.
81 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance his views on the extent to which covered institutions are meeting lending targets in terms of actual amounts of loans drawn down rather than loans approved, given that many approvals are made with onerous conditions which may result in the prospective borrower withdrawing the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [614 4/12]
I presume the Deputy is referring to business lending in this instance. As the Deputy is aware, the Government has imposed lending targets on the two domestic pillar banks for the three calendar years, 2011 to 2013. Both banks were required to sanction lending of at least €3 billion in 2011, €3.5 billion this year and €4 billion in 2013 for new or increased credit facilities to SMEs. Both have indicated that they have achieved their 2011 targets.
I should stress that the targets are for approvals of credit, targets have not been imposed for drawdowns. I would point out that the drawdown of funding is at the discretion of the borrower. There are many factors affecting whether or not funding is drawn down, such as changes in market conditions or company restructuring. The recent Mazars Survey of SME Lending, conducted on behalf of my Department, found that the most frequently cited reason for not availing of approved credit was "not needed at present time".
In terms of loan approvals with onerous conditions, if a borrower believes that the bank has attached terms and conditions to a loan such that the loan cannot be accepted then the borrower should ask for the decision to be appealed through the bank's appeals process. If that appeal is unsuccessful, then the borrower can apply for review to the Credit Review Office.
The Mazars Survey found that in 4% of approved application cases the respondent noted that the criteria/conditions attaching to the credit approval prevented them from availing of the sanctioned facility.
The Mazars Survey is available on the Department of Finance website: http://www.finance.gov.ie/documents/publications/reports/2011/mazarbanklend.pdf.
82 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if Ireland is availing of the extended loan maturities in respect of funds drawn down under the EU-IMF programme of assistance, as provided for in the 21 July 2011 Heads of Government in the euro area communique. [6145/12]
The Euro Area Heads of State or Government (HOSG) agreed on 21 July 2011 to lengthen the maturity of future EFSF loans from 7.5 years to a minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years. The EFSF has since raised a mixture of long and short-term funds for Ireland including a 10 year loan of €3 billion. The weighted average original maturity of Ireland's €10 billion EFSF loans to date is 5.8 years. Short-term loans issued to date will be converted to long-term loans when market circumstances are appropriate, thereby extending the average life. In October 2011, the EU Council of Ministers approved an EU Commission proposal to increase the maturity of individual tranches of lending to Ireland and Portugal from a minimum of 15 years to up to 30 years. In addition, EU Finance Ministers agreed that the average original maturity of the EFSM loans to these countries will be extended from 7.5 years to up to 12.5 years. Since this declaration the EFSM has issued Ireland with a thirty year loan of €1.5 billion. The weighted average original maturity of Ireland's €15.4 billion EFSM loans to date is currently 10.2 years.
The EFSF and EFSM fund their disbursements to Ireland by selling bonds and bills in the international capital markets. Notwithstanding the decision to extend the maturity of these loans, the terms and conditions of the individual disbursements to Ireland are, therefore, heavily dependent on the market conditions at the time of issue.
83 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the completion of an apprenticeship in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [5971/12]
I understand that in order to qualify as a craftsperson, an apprentice must be employed by a FÁS approved employer and complete all seven alternating on-the-job and off-the-job phases of their apprenticeship, which is a minimum of four years (208 weeks) in duration from the date of registration, as well as achieving the qualifying standard throughout their apprenticeship.
I have been informed by FÁS that an examination of the person in question's apprenticeship records indicates he needs to complete Phase 7 of his apprenticeship and secure another 27 weeks in employment with a FÁS approved employer in order to qualify as a craftsperson.
In these difficult times for apprentices, FÁS has introduced a range of interventions to allow apprentices complete their apprenticeships without undermining the integrity of the apprenticeship system. The current interventions to facilitate redundant apprentices include the following:
Redundant Apprentice Placement Scheme(RAPS) — the RAPS allows redundant apprentices to complete the on-the-job phases of their apprenticeship;
Phase 7 Equivalent Assessments — applies to redundant apprentices that have successfully completed Phases 1 to Phase 6 of their apprenticeships but have not successfully completed Phase 7;
Competency Determination Mechanism (CDM) — this mechanism provides redundant apprentices with the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and knowledge against the occupational standard for the specified trade over a number of days in a FÁS Training Centre. This initiative applies to redundant apprentices that have successfully completed the seven training phases of their apprenticeship but do not comply with the minimum time requirement.
The person in question is eligible to participate in the Redundant Apprentice Placement Scheme. He would be advised to contact his FÁS Training Adviser, Mr. Charlie Walsh on 087 7444537 to discuss the options available to him. Furthermore, he can register with his local FÁS Employment Services Office to avail of information on job vacancies. Information on job vacancies may also be accessed by telephoning FÁS Jobs Ireland at Freephone 1800 611 116 or on the FÁS website at www.fás.ie.
84 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Education and Skills when the planned amalgamation of FETAC, HETAC and the NQAI will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6006/12]
The Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Bill 2011, which provides for the amalgamation of the NQAI, HETAC and FETAC into the new Qualifications and Quality Assurance Authority of Ireland, was published in July 2011 and Second Stage was taken in the Seanad in September. It is intended to secure the passage of the legislation and establish the new Authority in the first half of the year.
85 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will clarify the impact budget 2012 will have on a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5969/12]
112 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Education and Skills how the new cost-cutting plans in education will affect schools in County Roscommon and County Leitrim; the number of schools that will lose a teacher in County Roscommon as a result of the cost-cutting plans; the number of schools that will lose a teacher in County Leitrim; if schools will be amalgamated in the Roscommon and Leitrim area; if the new measure will affect every school nationwide which has under 50 pupils; if the sustainability and regeneration of small rural schools have a role in his present cost-cutting plans; and if he will assure parents, teachers and families that their quality and standard of education will not be jeopardised due to unrealistic student-teacher ratios and extra burdens on principals. [6154/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 85 and 112 together.
My Department's focus is on implementing the staffing arrangements for the coming school year and I do not propose to divert scarce staffing resources to deal with individual queries from Deputies. My Department will be notifying schools in the coming weeks of the new staffing arrangements for the 2012/13 school year. At a time of great strain in our public finances, we have to ensure that the very valuable but limited resources available for the education system are used in the best way possible.
The staffing schedule at primary level disproportionately benefits small primary schools. It is worth noting that we have 3,200 primary schools across Ireland. Over two thirds of those schools have more than 86 pupils and, as a result, have far higher average class sizes than all of the schools affected by this measure. For example a two teacher school with 32 pupils has an average class size of 1 teacher for sixteen pupils. In contrast, a typical ten teacher school with 272 pupils has an average class size of 27.2 pupils. It is important to retain a sense of perspective and balance when discussing this matter and to realise the exceptionally favourable supports my Department will continue to provide for small schools.
For that reason, as part of the Budget 2012 decisions, the number of pupils required to gain and retain a classroom teaching post in small primary schools will be gradually increased between September 2012 and September 2014. Even when all of these phased increases are implemented, the threshold for small schools will still be significantly lower than the minimum of 28 pupils that was required for the appointment of a second teacher in schools prior to the mid-1990s.
The phasing of these measures can provide the schools concerned with time to consider the potential for amalgamation with other schools where this is feasible. If amalgamations take place, they will be voluntary and follow decisions taken by local communities and not by my Department.
86 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding increments in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [5975/12]
The scheme for the award of Incremental Credit for prior teaching service in a private second level school was 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 terms of this scheme are set out in circular 0029/2010.
My Department has no record of receiving an application under this scheme from the person referred to by the Deputy. If she wishes to apply to my Department for incremental credit, her case can be examined.
87 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will consider changing the deadline for applications to the Central Applications Office for third-level courses from January, in view of the fact that anecdotal evidence suggests that January is a difficult month for families to find the money for the application. [5984/12]
The higher education institutions have delegated to the CAO the task of processing applications to their undergraduate courses. Neither my Department nor the Higher Education Authority has any role in relation to the operation of the CAO including the setting of deadlines.
88 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concern of a board of management of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in relation to the possible loss of teachers and teaching support due to the proposed changes to DEIS; when the review applicable to this school is likely to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5992/12]
89 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concern of a board of management of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in relation to the possible loss of teachers and teaching support due to the proposed changes to DEIS; when the review applicable to this school is likely to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5993/12]
90 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concern of a board of management of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in relation to the possible loss of teachers and teaching support due to the proposed changes to DEIS; when the review applicable to this school is likely to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5994/12]
91 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concern of a board of management of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in relation to the possible loss of teachers and teaching support due to the proposed changes to DEIS; when the review applicable to this school is likely to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5995/12]
92 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concern of a board of management of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in relation to the possible loss of teachers and teaching support due to the proposed changes to DEIS; when the review applicable to this school is likely to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5996/12]
93 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concern of a board of management of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in relation to the possible loss of teachers and teaching support due to the proposed changes to DEIS; when the review applicable to this school is likely to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5997/12]
94 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concern of a board of management of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in relation to the possible loss of teachers and teaching support due to the proposed changes to DEIS; when the review applicable to this school is likely to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5998/12]
95 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concern of a board of management of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in relation to the possible loss of teachers and teaching support due to the proposed changes to DEIS; when the review applicable to this school is likely to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5999/12]
96 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concern of a board of management of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in relation to the possible loss of teachers and teaching support due to the proposed changes to DEIS; when the review applicable to this school is likely to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6000/12]
97 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concern of a board of management of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in relation to the possible loss of teachers and teaching support due to the proposed changes to DEIS; when the review applicable to this school is likely to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6001/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 88 to 97, inclusive, together.
I announced in the House on 11th January that my Department is to report to me within four weeks on the impact of the withdrawal of posts under these older schemes on DEIS Band 1 and Band 2 primary schools only. This report will detail the facts for each individual school affected by this measure, applying the most up to date enrolments for September 2011. In addition, the report will take account of the net effect of a range of factors on teacher allocations in these schools, for example increasing and decreasing enrolments and the reforms to the existing teacher allocations process, all of which will determine the staffing requirement for these schools for 2012/13 school year.
It is only when this report is made available to me that I will be in a position to make a decision on the final outcome for the individual schools involved and finalise and publish the staffing schedules for 2012/2013.
98 Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will review the decision to cut the pupil-teacher ratio for a DEIS school (details supplied) in Dublin 15; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this disadvantaged school may lose five teachers unless the cuts are reversed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6012/12]
I announced in the House on 11th January that my Department is to report to me within four weeks on the impact of the withdrawal of posts under these older schemes on DEIS Band 1 and Band 2 primary schools only. This report will detail the facts for each individual school affected by this measure, applying the most up to date enrolments for September 2011. In addition, the report will take account of the net effect of a range of factors on teacher allocations in these schools, for example, increasing and decreasing enrolments and the reforms to the existing teacher allocations process, all of which will determine the staffing requirement for these schools for 2012/13 school year. It is only when this report is made available to me that I will be in a position to make a decision on the final outcome for the individual schools involved and finalise and publish the staffing schedules for 2012/2013.
99 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will issue an update regarding the replacement of FÁS by SOLAS; if he will give a date as to when he expects the process to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6016/12]
Following the Government Decision to create SOLAS, an Implementation Group was set up to establish SOLAS. I am chairing this Group and its membership includes representatives from the Department of Education and Skills, FÁS, the Irish Vocational Education Association and the Department of Social Protection. The Group has been meeting regularly since August 2011 to drive the process forward. Legislation is being prepared by officials in the Department. A public consultation process with stakeholders is currently underway. In addition, a number of projects are currently being undertaken to ensure the smooth integration of the further education and training sectors. Given the complex elements involved, including enacting appropriate legislation, it is expected that the process of establishing SOLAS will be completed by the end of 2012.
100 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the total amount paid in expenses to chief executives of vocational education committees around the country last year; if he will provide a breakdown in tabular form of the amount awarded to each CEO; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6038/12]
101 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will publish the total amount paid in salaries to chief executive officers of vocational education committees around the country in 2011; if he will provide a breakdown of the total salary of each CEO; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6040/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 100 and 101 together.
The details which the Deputy has requested are not readily available to my Department. Accordingly, my Department has requested the information from the Vocational Education Committees and this will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it is received and collated.
102 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will confirm the total amount of expenses paid to board members of vocational education committees last year; the total amount paid per board; the number of members per board in each county; if the 2011 expenses bill represented an increase or decrease on the previous year; if such expenses are vouched or unvouched; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6041/12]
The details the Deputy has requested are not readily available to my Department. Accordingly, my Department has requested the information from the Vocational Education Committees. I will arrange for the information to be collated by my Department and forwarded to the Deputy.
103 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a proposal to lease accommodation for a school (details supplied) will be finalised and approved without further delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6058/12]
My Department is currently considering additional information provided in support of the request to lease accommodation for the school referred to by the Deputy. A decision will be conveyed to the school authority as soon as this process has been completed.
104 Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if the changes to the general allocation model in relation to learning support teachers has disproportionately affected Church of Ireland schools; if an analysis has been conducted regarding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6067/12]
The new simplified approach to the General Allocation Model of support for schools will make it easier to automatically update it annually in line with the changes in the number of classroom teachers in each school. Schools will also have autonomy on how to deploy the resource between language support and learning support depending on their specific needs. All schools are being treated equally irrespective of the type of patronage. The overall objective of the reforms is to enable the teacher allocation process to operate more smoothly and efficiently within the new climate of fixed ceilings on teacher numbers. The previous allocation model was based on enrolments in schools from 2003 and did not account for changes in pupil numbers in schools since that time. The arrangements for the staffing allocation under the General Allocation Model (GAM) are specifically designed to facilitate GAM hours being clustered into full-time posts, either entirely within their own school or with a nearby neighbouring school. These reforms are intended to be neutral in relation to the overall number of teaching posts allocated to schools. As many of the changes are designed to bring a more equitable distribution of existing posts between schools, it is inevitable that some schools that will lose posts and other schools will gain posts. My Department will notify schools in the coming weeks of the new staffing arrangements for the 2012-13 school year.
105 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason Scoilnet maps is to cease operation this month; the steps being taken to protect access to this valuable educational resource; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6078/12]
As I am sure the Deputy will appreciate, the need to ensure value for money in public expenditure is greater than ever. In common with many other State-funded initiatives, the ICT in Schools programme has needed to re-evaluate its spending priorities to ensure it can continue to deliver essential services, notwithstanding an unavoidable reduction in the overall level of resources available. The contracts for providing this service expire on 4 February and there are no plans to renew them. Other options of providing access to maps are being examined within the context of available resources and value for money. The Scoilnet service will continue to make other Geography-related digital resources available through its portal and the Professional Development Service for Teachers will continue to support teachers in this area.
106 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of schools now listed on the school building programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6087/12]
Last December, I announced details of the education infrastructure plan for 2012. Details of this plan are available on my Department's website, www.education.ie. For the Deputy’s convenience, I have attached copies of the announced lists of schools under construction (60 schools) or anticipated to be progressed to construction in 2012 (56 schools). I have also committed to announcing details of the five-year education infrastructure plan in the coming months. This will outline when the major projects needed to cater for demographic growth will be completed. Publication of the plan will also enhance the transparency and openness in the school building system.
|
Area |
Roll Number |
School Name and Address |
Brief |
Sector |
|
Carlow |
17127S |
St. Joseph’s NS, Hacketstown |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Carlow |
17501Q |
Bennekerry NS, Bennykerry |
New School |
Primary |
|
Cavan |
61060M |
St Patrick’s College, Cavan, Co. Cavan |
New School |
Post-primary |
|
Cork |
13450F |
Rushbrooke NS, Cobh |
New School |
Primary |
|
Cork |
16746S |
Ballygarvan NS |
New School |
Primary |
|
Cork |
17667E |
SN Pádraig Naofa, Whitechurch |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Cork |
18279A |
St. Mary’s NS, Waterpark, Carrigaline |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Donegal |
17268N |
SN An Br M O Cleirigh, Creevy, Ballyshannon |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Donegal |
18052S |
Scoil Mhuire gan Smál, Letterkenny |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Dublin City |
17936F |
Scoil Eoin Baisde Snr, Clontarf (see also 19006Q) |
Extension\refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Dublin City |
19006Q |
Scoil Eoin Baisde B Sois, Clontarf (see also 17936F) |
Extension\refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Dublin City |
19373U |
St. Michael’s House Special School, Kish House, Greendale Road, Kilbarrack, Dublin 5 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Dublin City |
60450U |
Coláiste Mhuire, CID Campus, Cabra, Dublin 7 |
New School |
Post-primary |
|
Dublin Fingal |
00697S |
St. Brigid’s NS, Castleknock, Dublin 15 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Dublin Fingal |
60010P |
Loreto Secondary School, Balbriggan |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Dún Laoghaire Rathdown |
19374W |
Garran Mhuire, Goatstown, Dublin 14 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Dun Laoghaire Rathdown |
19474D |
St. Colmcille’s Junior NS, Knocklyon, Templeogue, Dublin 16 (Linked to 19742C) |
New School |
Primary |
|
Dun Laoghaire Rathdown |
19742C |
St. Colmcille’s Senior NS, Knocklyon, Templeogue, Dublin 16 (Linked to 19474D) |
New School |
Primary |
|
Galway |
08512U |
Iomair NS, Killimor |
New School |
Primary |
|
Kerry |
17646T |
O’Brennan NS, Kielduff, Tralee |
New School |
Primary |
|
Kerry |
20197K |
Kenmare NS, Kenmare |
New School |
Primary |
|
Kerry |
61440W |
St Mary’s CBS, Tralee |
Extension\refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Kildare |
17674B |
SN Aine Naofa, Ard Cloc, Straffan |
New School |
Primary |
|
Kildare |
18018S |
Scoil Bhride NS, Rathangan |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Kildare |
20058T |
Sc Uí Fhiach, Maynooth |
New School |
Primary |
|
Kildare |
20114D |
Scoil Brid, Naas |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Kildare |
61710C |
Meánscoil Iognáid Ris, Naas |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Kilkenny |
61580P |
Loreto Secondary School, Granges Road |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Laois |
07442U |
Convent of Mercy NS, Borris in Ossory |
New School |
Primary |
|
Laois |
17617M |
Scoil Chomhgain Naofa, Killeshin |
New School |
Primary |
|
Laois |
20071L |
Scoil Bhríde, Rathdowney |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Limerick City |
18991S |
JFK Memorial School, Ennis Road |
New School |
Primary |
|
Louth |
20205G |
St Mary’s Parish School, Drogheda |
New School |
Primary |
|
Louth |
63920A |
Dundalk Grammar School, The Crescent |
Extension\refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Louth |
20349H |
Scoil Oilibhéir Naofa |
New School |
Primary |
|
Mayo |
20142I |
Scoil Íosa, Abbeyquarter, Ballyhaunis |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Meath |
17213L |
SN Mhuire, Ma Nealta, Ceannanus Mór |
New School |
Primary |
|
Meath |
17821L |
Scoil Nais Mhuire Naofa, Enfield, Co Meath |
New School |
Primary |
|
Meath |
63870L |
Drogheda Grammar School |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Meath |
76103M |
Colaiste Na hInse, Laytown |
New School |
Post-primary |
|
Monaghan |
19936P |
Gaelscoil Ultain |
New School |
Primary |
|
Monaghan |
76091I |
Gaelcholáiste Oiriall |
New School |
Post-primary |
|
Monaghan |
76095Q |
Monaghan Institute of Further Education (MIFET) |
New School |
Post-primary |
|
Offaly |
17637S |
SN Sheosaimh Naofa, Beál Átha na gCarr, Tullamore |
New School |
Primary |
|
Offaly |
18267Q |
Croinchoill NS, Birr |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Offaly |
65610S |
Colaiste Choilm, O’Moore Street, Tullamore, Co Offaly |
New School |
Post-primary |
|
Roscommon |
65100S |
Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown, Co Roscommon |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Sligo |
19495L |
Carbury NS, The Mall |
New 8cr School |
Primary |
|
Sligo |
65170Q |
Summerhill College, Sligo |
New School |
Post-primary |
|
South Dublin |
18324C |
Scoil Bride C, Palmerstown |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Tipperary NR |
15696B |
Silvermines National School |
New School |
Primary |
|
Tipperary NR |
65470F |
Ursuline Convent, Thurles |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Tipperary NR |
72370P |
Borrisokane Community College, Tipperary |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Tipperary NR |
72440K |
Nenagh VS, Nenagh |
Extension\refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
South Tipperary |
72430H |
Scoil Ruain, Killenaule |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Waterford City |
64970U |
Coláiste na Maighdine, Presentation Secondary School, Waterford City |
New School |
Post-primary |
|
Westmeath |
63290Q |
Loreto College, Mullingar |
Extension\refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Wexford |
17017L |
SN Phádraig, Crossabeg |
Extension\refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Wicklow |
09760V |
Powerscourt NS, Powerscourt, Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow |
New School |
Primary |
|
Wicklow |
61800D |
Presentation College, Bray |
New School |
Post-primary |
|
Area |
Roll Number |
School Name and Address |
Brief |
Sector |
|
Carlow |
20295K |
Carlow Educate Together NS |
New school |
Primary |
|
Cavan |
18857O |
Carraigabruise NS, Virginia |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Clare |
15042A |
Ennis National School |
New School |
Primary |
|
Cork |
17609N |
Rathcormac NS, Rathcormac |
New School |
Primary |
|
Cork |
19839R |
Gaelscoil Uí Riordán, Ballincollig |
New School |
Primary |
|
Cork |
20006A |
Gaelscoil Chloich na Coillte, Clonakilty |
New School |
Primary |
|
Cork City |
20106E |
Scoil Nioclais, Frankfield, Grange |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Cork |
20335T |
Scoil Phadraig Naofa, Rochestown (PHASE II) |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Cork City |
62690E |
Scoil Mhuire, 2 Sydney Place, Wellington Road |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Cork City |
81008W |
Ashton Comprehensive School, Blackrock Road |
New School |
Post-primary |
|
Donegal |
16672P |
St. Patrick’s NS, Lurgybrack |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Donegal |
19971R |
Gaelscoil Adhamanain, Letterkenny |
New School |
Primary |
|
Dublin City |
20139T |
Inchicore NS, Sarsfield Road, Dublin 10 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Dublin City |
09932B |
Stanhope Street Convent Primary school |
New School |
Primary |
|
Dublin Fingal |
16675V |
Mulhuddart National School |
New School |
Primary |
|
Dublin Fingal |
20302E |
Thornleigh Educate Together National School, Thornleigh Green, Swords |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Dublin Fingal |
20348F |
Holywell ET, Swords |
New School |
Primary |
|
Dublin Fingal |
20269J |
Scoil Chormaic Community Primary School, Clogheder, Balbriggan |
New School |
Primary |
|
Dublin Fingal |
18046A |
Scoil Bhride, Blanchardstown |
New School |
Primary |
|
Dublin Fingal |
18047C |
Scoil Bhride, Blanchardstown |
New School |
Primary |
|
Dublin Fingal |
20383H |
Blanchardstown West ETNS |
New School |
Primary |
|
Dublin Fingal |
76129H |
Ardgillan Community College |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Dublin Fingal |
76130P |
Luttrellstown CC (see also 20241K) |
New school |
Post-primary |
|
Dublin Fingal |
20241K |
Scoil Choilm, Diswellstown, Porterstown (see also 76130P) |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Dun Laoghaire Rathdown |
70030E |
Senior College, Dún Laoghaire, Eblana Avenue, Dún Laoghaire, Co Dublin |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Dun Laoghaire Rathdown |
20190T |
Holy Trinity NS |
New School |
Primary |
|
Galway |
20199O |
Scoil Náisiúnta Uachtar Árd, Oughterard |
New School |
Primary |
|
Galway City |
19795A |
Tirellan Heights NS, Headford Road, Galway |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Galway City |
62970K |
Coláiste Iognáid SJ Bothar na Mara |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Kildare |
17064U |
Scoil Phadraig, Ballylinan, Athy |
New School |
Primary |
|
Laois |
15556I |
Portarlington Convent NS |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Limerick |
13026P |
Kilfinane National School |
New School |
Primary |
|
Limerick City |
64201T |
Ardscoil Ris, North Circular Rd, Limerick |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Limerick City |
64240G |
St. Munchin’s College, Limerick City |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Longford |
20128O |
St. Matthew’s Mixed NS, Ballymahon |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Longford |
20124G |
Edgeworthstown NS |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
Louth |
20259G |
St. Francis’ NS, Dundalk |
New School |
Primary |
|
Mayo |
64570E |
Our Lady’s Secondary School Belmullet |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Meath |
18767N |
SN Realt na Mara (Boys) Mornington (joint project with 18762D) |
New School |
Primary |
|
Meath |
18762D |
SN Realt na Mara (Girls) Mornington — joint project with 18767N) |
New School |
Primary |
|
Meath |
71960I |
Dunshaughlin Community College |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
South Dublin |
19817H |
St. Mary’s NS, Airlie Heights, Woodlawn, Lucan |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Primary |
|
South Dublin |
20223I |
Gaelscoil Eiscir Riada, Lucan |
New School |
Primary |
|
South Dublin |
19878E |
Ballycragh NS |
New School |
Primary |
|
Waterford City |
20050D |
Gaelscoil na Deise, Grace Dieu Road, Waterford (see also 20160K) |
New School |
Primary |
|
Waterford City |
20160K |
Waterford Educate Together NS (see also 20050D) |
New School |
Primary |
|
Wicklow |
19522L |
St. Catherine’s Special School, Newcastle |
New School |
Primary |
|
Tipperary |
65240L |
Scoil Mhuire Presentation Secondary School, Ballingarry |
Extension/Refurbishment |
Post-primary |
|
Area |
Roll Number |
School Name and Address |
Brief |
Sector |
|
Donegal |
76081F |
Coláiste Ailigh, Letterkenny |
New School |
Post-Primary |
|
Galway |
not yet assigned |
New Primary School in Doughiska |
New school |
Primary |
|
Galway |
not yet assigned |
New Post-Primary school in Doughiska |
New school |
Post-Primary |
|
Leitrim |
91519H |
Ballinamore Community School |
New school |
Post-Primary |
|
Limerick |
Amalgamation — not yet assigned |
Post Primary school in Doon |
New School |
Post-Primary |
|
Waterford |
Amalgamation — not yet assigned |
Post Primary school in Tramore |
New school |
Post-primary |
|
Westmeath |
71410T |
Athlone Community College |
New school |
Post-Primary |
|
Wexford |
76127D |
Gorey Community College |
New school |
Post-Primary |
107 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of secondary schools covered by the national educational psychological service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6092/12]
The Deputy will be aware that primary and post-primary schools have access to psychological assessments either directly through the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) or through the Scheme for Commissioning Psychological Assessments (SCPA). Any school that does not have a NEPS psychologist assigned to it may avail of the SCPA, whereby it can have an assessment carried out by a member of the panel of private psychologists approved and paid for by NEPS. In common with many other psychological services and best international practice, NEPS encourages a staged assessment process, whereby each school takes responsibility for initial assessment, educational planning and remedial intervention, in consultation with its assigned NEPS psychologist. Only if there is a failure to make reasonable progress, in spite of the school's best efforts, will a student be referred for individual psychological assessment. This system allows the psychologists to give early attention to urgent cases and help many more students indirectly than could be seen individually. It also ensures students are not referred unnecessarily for psychological intervention.
In late 2010, NEPS outlined its approach in this regard in its publication, A Continuum of Support for Post-Primary Schools, which demonstrates the process from whole school interventions to more specialised and individual interventions. These guidelines describe a graduated problem-solving model of assessment and intervention in schools and comprise three distinct school based processes. The first process, Support for All, is a process of prevention, effective mainstream teaching and early identification. This is available to all students and effectively meets the needs of most students. The second process, School Support (for Some), is an assessment and intervention process which is directed to some students or groups of students who require some additional input. The third process, School Support Plus (for a Few), is generally characterised by more intensive and individualised supports. This level of intervention is for students with complex and/or enduring needs. Relatively few students will need this level of support.
Since the production of these guidelines, NEPS psychologists have offered information seminars to all post-primary principals. That process is nearing completion. It has also had preparatory engagement with individual schools to embed the continuum in each school's practice. The continuum model recognises that pupils present with a wide range of issues and difficulties and allows for their amelioration through intervention at the level most appropriate to the particular need. Currently, NEPS psychologists are assigned to some 615 recognised second level schools, or 93% of the sector's enrolment. Services are also provided to an additional 38 schools through the psychological services of the City and County Dublin VECs. The remaining 46 schools receive assessment services via the SCPA scheme that has been described. NEPS psychologists process applications from all post-primary schools for reasonable accommodations in the leaving certificate examination for students with specific learning disabilities on behalf of State Examinations Commission. It is estimated that applications in respect of over 4,500 pupils will be processed in this regard in the current academic year.
NEPS provides assistance to all schools that experience critical incidents, regardless of whether they have a NEPS psychologist assigned to them. The incidents themselves generally arise because of death through illness, road accident or sometimes suicide of a pupil or school staff member. In the event of a critical incident within a school, NEPS is proactive in offering support to the school community in accordance with its needs. During 2008, NEPS provided all schools with updated advisory material and support to assist them in preparing a critical incident management plan in order that they might better cope with the challenges such unexpected events can present. At a more general level, NEPS psychologists provide a range of supports to school authorities and communities, including the promotion of positive mental health among the general student body and assistance in supporting pupils with particular social emotional or behavioural difficulties. NEPS actively promotes and supports the development of student support structures in schools, which includes the development of contact and collaboration with the relevant local HSE mental health agencies, including the Community Psychology Services and Mental Health Promotion Officers and the referral services of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service.
108 Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a job-sharing application on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Donegal was refused in March 2010 because his Department did not allocate a whole-time equivalent replacement; whether it is normal for this not to be communicated in writing to the applicant, and whether the board of management of the school appealed the refusal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6095/12]
109 Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Education and Skills the criteria being applied in granting concessions to schools to accommodate job-sharing and career breaks in the 2011-2012 academic year; when such applications will be looked on favourably; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6096/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 108 and 109 together.
The decision to approve a job-sharing or career break application is a matter for the authorities of the employing school. In schools that have over-quota teachers, applications for job-sharing and a career break may be considered by the authorities of the schools concerned in the normal way. However if the school is over its staffing allocation the established rules do not allow for the automatic replacement of teachers approved for job-share or career break arrangements. It is, of course, open to the school authority to apply to my Department for additional teaching hours by way of curricular concessions to cover part or all of the hours in respect of an approved job-sharer/career break teacher. Each such application is considered on its merits. This position is no different from that pertaining in previous years.
Teacher allocations to all second level schools are approved annually by my Department in accordance with established rules based on recognised pupil enrolment. In accordance with these rules each school management authority is required to organise its subject options within the limit of its approved teacher allocation. The deployment of teaching staff in the school, the range of subjects offered and ultimately the quality of teaching and learning are in the first instance a matter for the school management authorities.
The criteria for the allocation of teaching posts at post-primary level, including the appeals mechanism, for the coming school year will be published shortly on my Department's website.
110 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if chief executive officers of vocational education committees are still in receipt of a €13,000 payment for their work as transport liaison officers for schools; if this is the case, if he will confirm whether every CEO is set to receive the payment in 2012; his plan to review such an arrangement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6111/12]
The matter referred to by the Deputy is currently the subject of discussions under the auspices of the Labour Relations Commission. It would therefore be inappropriate for me to comment on the matter at this time.
111 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will reconsider the decision to end the modern languages pilot initiative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6119/12]
The Modern Languages in Primary Schools Initiative has been a pilot scheme involving approximately 550 schools that has operated since 1998.
The decision to end the scheme took account of a 2008 Report by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA). The report identified serious issues with curricular overload at primary level. The NCCA's advice recommended for the present modern languages should not be part of the Primary School Curriculum as an additional and separate subject. The advice in relation to curriculum overload predated the wake up call on literacy and numeracy triggered by the PISA results. I am taking that advice on board and with particular regard to the demands on time in school that will result from a heightened focus on literacy and numeracy.
The primary curriculum is currently being reviewed by the NCCA in the context of the national literacy and numeracy strategy. The €2.5 million in savings from this measure will go towards the cost of implementing the new national literacy and numeracy strategy. The 17% of primary schools at present in the Initiative, which have had even more time demands than others in a crowded curricular space, should as a result be better placed to deliver under the strategy. Given the priority of literacy and numeracy I have acted on the 2008 advice about overload and could not justify either the continuation of the initiative in the existing schools or its expansion to all schools even if funding was not an issue.
113 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the total number of senior staff below chief executive level in commercial semi-State companies who will face reductions in pay levels shortly; the staff positions concerned and the corresponding number of staff in each category who will be affected, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5989/12]
The agreement of both the relevant Minister and myself is, under various statutes, required in relation to the remuneration of CEOs of Commercial State Companies. Similar provisions do not apply in relation to staff below the level of CEO. In this context my Department does not hold information with regard to grading or salary structures of staff below CEO.
The Deputy will be aware that I announced revised general salary rates for future appointments of CEOs in Commercial State Companies in June last year. It is anticipated that, over time, these significant adjustments for CEO pay in Commercial State Companies will also give rise to adjustments to the salary levels of staff below CEO level in these companies.
It is my intention to engage in dialogue with my colleagues in Government to ensure that the boards of the Commercial State Companies for which they are responsible have regard to Government policy on pay when recruiting staff to those companies.
114 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will issue a breakdown of the remuneration packages in place for chief executive officers of all semi-State companies as of 27 January 2011, specifying in detail any bonus, pension, expenses or other arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6430/12]
In response to the Deputy's question each Department is responsible for the semi-State companies which come under their remit. Details in respect of the remuneration packages in place for chief executive officers are a matter for individual Ministers in each Department.
In respect of my own Department An Post National Lottery is the only commercial semi-state body. Details in respect of the chief executive officers remuneration package as at 1 January 2012 are as follows:
|
Details |
€ |
|
Basic Salary |
230,000 |
|
Non-Pensionable Performance Related Pay |
The Chief Executive has voluntarily waived his entitlement to performance related pay since 2009 |
|
Car Allowance |
15,000 |
|
Health Insurance |
5,000 |
|
Company Pension Contribution |
33,000 |
|
Chief Executives Personal Pension |
14,950 (6.5%) |
|
Directors Fee |
12,000 (Following 10% reduction implemented from 1 May 2009) |
The basic salary of the chief executive officer has remained at €230,000 since 1st January 2008.
115 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he has established the possibility of merging Forfás into his Department as per his public services reform plan; if it will now be necessary to merge the two entities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6007/12]
The Government's Public Service Reform Plan, which was published last November, includes a commitment to establishing the scope to merge Forfás into the Department.
Since its establishment in 1994, Forfás has played a key role in providing policy advice, research and analysis on matters pertaining to enterprise, trade, science, technology and innovation. The agency also supports the work of various other bodies, such as the National Competitiveness Council, the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs and the Advisory Council for Science, Technology and Innovation. Forfás also carries out a range of shared services, including pensions administration, payroll operation, and accommodation services, on behalf of other agencies.
However, there is an imperative, at this point in time, to examine all aspects of public service delivery to determine how best to maximise the strengths available across the public sector, including in relation to enterprise policy formulation and implementation.
In this context, I have been considering how best the available resources in Forfás and my Department can be collectively harnessed in order to further enhance the formulation and implementation of national enterprise policy. I have consulted with the Board of Forfás on this matter and I am currently considering their views.
I have also asked the Secretary General of my Department to examine, with senior officials from Forfás, the practical implications which might arise from the integration of Forfás with my Department.
116 Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he is satisfied with the adequacy of staff cover in the Industrial Development Agency and Enterprise Ireland in Dundalk and in County Louth as a whole; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5941/12]
As part of the Employment Control Framework, which is the mechanism for the management of reduction of overall staff numbers, my Department has agreed staff numbers and annual operational ceilings with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. These relate to the staffing levels of my Department, its Offices and agencies, including Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland. The issue of staffing of their individual local offices is a day-to-day operational matter for the agencies themselves and not one in which I have any role or function.
Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland share an office in Dundalk. The office services the North East Region which encompasses counties Louth, Monaghan, and Cavan. The staff complement within Enterprise Ireland is six executives, and a Regional Director with responsibility for the Border Region and links to Northern Ireland. IDA has a complement of three staff consisting of one Regional Executive, one Property Executive and one Executive Assistant.
All Enterprise Ireland clients based in Co. Louth are assigned a Development Advisor who works in a holistic way, across all the business functions of the company, to maximise sustainable exports and jobs in Ireland. Through its Dundalk office, Enterprise Ireland provides assistance to entrepreneurs and businesses to develop and test business propositions which are at an early stage, ensuring there is a supportive environment for start-up companies and the provision of direct financial assistance for High Potential Start-Ups in Louth.
IDA Ireland continues to market the North East Region for new inward investment mainly through its Gateway of Dundalk, in line with the Government's National Spatial Strategy (NSS). The agency works closely with its 21 client companies in Louth that currently employ approximately 1,500 people.
The challenge of reducing staff numbers across the Public Sector means delivering the same high-quality services in an even more efficient manner. However, I am satisfied that the policies and initiatives being pursued by the two agencies will continue to bring about industrial development and employment opportunities for Co. Louth, as evidenced by the recent announcement by Prometric of the creation of more than 100 jobs at its Test Development Solutions HQ in Dundalk. In addition, my Department will continue to work closely with both agencies to assist them in meeting the challenges they face in carrying out their mandates.
117 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if his attention has been drawn to problems involving a company trading under a name (details supplied) and its former employees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6017/12]
Responsibility for the resolution of disputes between employers and workers is, in the first instance, a matter for the employer, the workers and their representatives. The State facilitates employers and employees in resolving issues in dispute by providing a framework and institutions through which good relations can prosper. Accordingly, there exists a comprehensive suite of employment rights and industrial relations law, and institutions, such as the Labour Relations Commission, including its Rights Commissioner Service, the Labour Court and the Employment Appeals Tribunal, through which employment related disputes can be pursued and resolved. I am not aware of the status of any proceedings in this case.
118 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the circumstances surrounding the possible publication of the Deloitte report; if circumstances will allow publication of the report in the near future with public access to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6053/12]
The Deloitte Report, referred to by the Deputy, was commissioned following ongoing allegations made against Enterprise Ireland and its predecessor organisations (Forbairt/Industrial Development Authority). The report was completed in May 2011, at a cost to Enterprise Ireland of €10,527. The Report found that the evidence put forward by the Deputy's correspondent did not support the allegations.
This report was commissioned as a confidential report for Enterprise Ireland and contains information of a confidential nature concerning third parties. Enterprise Ireland does not foresee circumstances arising where this report will be published.
119 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the position regarding the transfer of land by the Industrial Development Agency to Cork County Council to facilitate the DEN project in Dunmanway County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6071/12]
I have been informed by IDA Ireland that the agency is currently progressing the transfer of land sales at Miles and Cloheen, Clonakilty and Brookpark, Dunmanway with Cork County Council. The contract documents are scheduled for forwarding to the Cork County Council solicitor in two weeks.
120 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he intends to update or consolidate the legislation governing regulation of industrial and provident societies, friendly societies and trade unions; when he expects legislation to be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6123/12]
122 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he has consulted with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform regarding the updating and consolidation of legislation governing the regulation of industrial and provident societies, friendly societies and trade unions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6125/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 120 and 122 together.
Existing legislation relating to industrial and provident societies (co-operative societies), friendly societies and Registry-related aspects of trade unions is currently under review. Last year, I secured the agreement of Government to draft legislation to make a number of amendments to existing legislation in the areas of Industrial and Provident Societies and Friendly Societies. I hope to publish a Draft Bill during 2012.
While I appreciate that legislation in these areas has become outdated, advancement of a broader review for all three areas is unlikely pending progress being made on the finalisation and enactment of the Companies Bill, which is my priority in this area at present.
In accordance with standard procedures, the views of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, and other relevant Departments, will be sought in relation to this issue in due course.
121 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the names and number of trade unions which submitted an annual return to the register of friendly societies by 1 June 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6124/12]
123 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his role, exercised through the friendly societies register, in trade union regulation and governance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6126/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 121 and 123 together.
Under the powers conferred on me by the Friendly Societies Acts 1986 to 1977, I appoint an officer to the position of Registrar of Friendly Societies, who is charged with regulation of trade unions on my behalf. The Registrar of Friendly Societies has a range of functions relating to friendly societies, industrial and provident societies and trade unions, dating back to the late nineteenth century. The relevant legislation concerning trade unions is set down in the Trade Union Acts, 1871 to 1990. Under that legislation trade unions may register with the Registrar of Friendly Societies, subject to a range of obligations in relation to such registration.
Principally, these include the following obligations:
to register their rules and the titles and names of officers,
to submit an annual return to the Registrar before the first day of June each year, specifying the receipts, funds, effects and expenditure of the trade union (which return to be accompanied by a copy of the audited accounts and a copy of the current rules),
to submit annually a copy of all alterations of rules, new rules, and change of officers made during the previous year, and
to maintain a registered office and to notify the Registrar of any change in the registered office.
In addition to maintaining a file on each registered trade union and making it available for inspection, for her part the Registrar must:
issue a certificate of registration to trade unions,
register the returns mentioned above,
cancel/restore registered trade unions as appropriate, and
approve and register amalgamations and transfer of engagements.
The Registrar also has a number of specific powers in the area of investigation/dispute resolution:
to investigate complaints of discriminatory treatment against a non-contributor to a political fund. The Registrar may make an order to remedy the breach, which is binding and conclusive, and not subject to appeal (section 3(2) of the Trade Union Act 1913).
to investigate complaints under section 16(5) of the Industrial Relations Act 1990 concerning the operation of secret ballots, following which the Registrar may instruct a trade union to comply with the secret ballot provisions of the Act (section 14(2)). Where such instruction is disregarded the Registrar must inform the Minister, who may revoke the union's negotiating licence.
to hear disputes referred to the Registrar under section 10 of the Trade Union Act, 1975 concerning the passing of resolutions approving amalgamations of trade unions. Under this section, the Registrar may, at the request of the complainant or of the trade union, state a case for the opinion of the High Court on a question of law arising in the proceedings.
The Registrar has no independent powers of investigation, and can only act where requested to do so on the specific areas mentioned above, or to refer a matter to the court in relation to wilful or fraudulent withholding of money. This latter option is also available to "any person" acting on behalf of a trade union.
The Registrar reports annually to the Minister in respect of the principal matters transacted in the Registry in respect of registered trade unions. This report is laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas.
Seventeen trade unions filed an annual return in respect of 2010 with the Registrar of Friendly Societies by 1 June 2011. This information is available on the public file of each trade union, which includes details of registration, the rules of the trade union and its annual returns. It is open to the Deputy to make enquiries to the Registry of Friendly Societies regarding any individual trade union.
124 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will ensure that the State’s industrial relations agencies will treat with the utmost urgency the need to resolve without further delay the issues before the Labour Relations Commission pertaining to a company (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6136/12]
Workers at the Lagan Brick factory, Kingscourt, Co Cavan have been involved in a protest outside the company's premises in a dispute over the decision by the company to close the operation on 15 December last with the loss of up to 30 jobs. The union wants to retain maximum employment at the plant and secure satisfactory redundancy terms for any workers who lose their jobs.
Representatives of the company and the trade union SIPTU attended conciliation talks at the Labour Relations Commission on 10th and 16th January. Following those talks, the company and SIPTU accepted proposals put to both sides by the Commission to progress the issues in dispute. In line with these proposals, an independent assessor, who has been agreed by both sides, is examining the trading position of the company, including an assessment of the viability of continuing manufacturing in Kingscourt. It was envisaged that the assessor would provide a report to both sides within a period of 2 weeks and that the parties would reconvene under the auspices of the LRC on 30 January to consider the implications of the assessor's report and other outstanding issues, including the question of severance terms for required redundancies.
However, I understand that the assessor has sought additional time to complete the report and that the reconvened hearing will take place on 6th February next.
125 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will issue a breakdown of the remuneration packages in place for chief executive officers of all semi-State companies here as of 27 January 2011, specifying in detail any bonus, pension, expenses or other arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6428/12]
The remuneration of the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of semi-State agencies that fall under the aegis of the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation is as set by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. The information is as follows:
|
Agency |
Remuneration |
|
|
PPC |
Non-PPC |
|
|
IDA Ireland |
€189,115 |
€179,659 |
|
Enterprise Ireland |
€189,115 |
€179,659 |
|
Science Foundation Ireland |
€180,109 |
€175,999 |
|
Shannon Free Airport Development Co. Ltd. |
€154,183 |
€146,473 |
|
The National Standards Authority of Ireland |
€154,183 |
€146,473 |
|
The Health and Safety Authority |
€153,885 |
€146,191 |
|
Forfás |
€189,115 |
€179,659 |
|
The County Enterprise Boards |
N/A |
€67,115 to €87,126 |
|
Irish Auditing and Accounting Supervisory Authority |
€132,511 |
€125,886 |
|
The Personal Injuries Assessment Board |
€168,379 |
€159,959 |
|
The National Consumer Agency |
€176,800 |
€168,000 |
|
The Competition Authority |
€164,464 |
€156,240 |
|
The Labour Relations Commission |
€176,800 |
€168,000 |
Bonus
There are no bonus payments payable to the CEOs of the above agencies.
Pension
Each CEO is obliged to be a member of the staff Superannuation scheme of their respective agency. Pensions are calculated as 1/80th of pensionable remuneration per year of reckonable service, subject to a maximum of 40/80ths. Lump sums are calculated as 3/80ths of pensionable remuneration per year of service, subject to a maximum of 120/80ths.
Expenses are a day to day matter for each agency.
126 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding redundancy payments (details supplied). [5976/12]
It is the responsibility of the employer to pay statutory redundancy to all eligible employees. An employer who pays statutory redundancy payments to employees is then entitled to a rebate from the State of a percentage of the relevant amount. In a situation where the employer is unable to pay the statutory redundancy to his/her employees the Department will make lump sum payments directly to the employees and will seek to recover the debt from the employer.
The time limit for lump sum claims is 52 weeks after the date of termination of employment. The Employment Appeals Tribunal has discretion to extend the 52 week time-limit to 104 weeks, provided that it receives the necessary claim within 104 weeks of the date of dismissal and is satisfied that the delay by the employee in making the claim arose through reasonable cause. It should be stressed, however, that the period of 52 weeks is the period which will normally apply.
127 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding the recognition of autism as a disability under the disability allowance scheme. [5977/12]
Autism spectrum disorders are categorized by the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) as: autism F84-F84.9 and are recognised by the World Health Organisation. My Department recognises autism spectrum disorders as disabilities. The eligibility to disability allowance is determined by its severity and expected duration.
128 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on the options for pension reform; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6089/12]
There are a number of elements of the pension system which are in need of reform and there is a significant amount of work under way at present.
We want to make the State pension more transparent and equitable, as well as affordable and sustainable. The qualifying age for State pension has been increased to age 66 from 2014, 67 in 2021 and 68 in 2028. The number of minimum paid contributions required to qualify for a State pension will increase from 260 to 520 in April 2012. This has been legislated for since 1997. Changes have been introduced in Budget 2012 to make the contribution band rates more equitable. In addition, it is also proposed to move away from the current system of averaging contributions to determine the rate of pension to a more transparent system of calculating total contributions. The proposed date for its introduction is 2020. This will mean that individuals can qualify for a maximum pension with 30 years contributions and a minimum pension with 10 years paid contributions. In conjunction with these changes, it is also planned to allow people to defer receipt of the State pension and make up shortfalls in contributions.
We want more people to save for their retirement and we want people to save more. In fact, the Programme for Government includes a commitment to progressively achieve universal coverage, with a particular focus on lower-paid workers. That is why we are currently working on the development of an auto-enrolment scheme.
The complexity of the pensions system overall is another area we will be examining. In particular, we want to make the whole system more transparent so that people can make informed decisions about their retirement planning.
Given the extreme difficulties that most defined benefit schemes have faced in recent years, and indeed that many are still facing, we must recognise that changes to the current system are required if this type of provision is to survive. Following detailed consideration of the issues involved and consultation process with stakeholders, the Government decided to introduce a number of changes with respect to defined benefit provision.
These include: the introduction of a reformed and strengthened Funding Standard; a change in the way accrued pension benefits are revalued in order to ensure equity; a change in the priority order in which funds are disbursed when a scheme winds up to allow for a better return to members who have not yet retired. In addition, the Pensions Board will be given powers to wind up schemes in certain limited circumstances. Legislation to provide for these changes will be introduced in the coming months. Initially however, the existing Funding Standard is being restored and this will give underfunded schemes 3 years in which to restore their funding levels to the current standard.
In addition, the Pensions Board has published guidelines in relation to the sovereign annuity initiative. This will enable potential providers to develop these products which will make it easier for pension schemes to invest in Ireland.
My Department is currently conducting a study of pension charges which was instigated because of concerns that pensions schemes and their members have in relation to the level of charges applied to their scheme and the lack of transparency around some of these charges. This study will provide an initial benchmark on the level of pension charges for different forms of funded supplementary pension arrangements and will provide information in relation to the transparency of pensions charges. These data have not been available to date so the study will provide valuable information to inform policy. I will report on the findings and make recommendations to Government in due course.
Our agreement with the EU and IMF includes commitments to deliver full year savings of €940 million in tax relief in the broad pension tax relief area in the period to 2014. The Minister for Finance has given a commitment to consult with stakeholders in relation to how this level of saving might be achieved.
In the Programme for Government, we have committed to capping taxpayers' subsidies for all future pension schemes for politicians, and indeed for everybody, that deliver income in retirement of more than €60,000. This reform will have an impact on high earners whether in the public or the private sector.
The reform of public sector pensions is a key element of the wider public sector reform agenda. Last September Minister Howlin published legislation which will see the introduction of a new single pension scheme for new entrants to the public sector. This will provide a more straightforward and efficient structure for the management of public service pensions.
With regard to the pensions paid to politicians we want to ensure that no political pensions will be paid to sitting TDs. So, our Programme for Government includes a commitment to restrict the payment of pensions to politicians so that in future a member can only qualify for a pension at State pension age upon leaving public life.
We have succeeded in achieving a society where people are living longer. This is something to be welcomed but to support this we need a sustainable, fair and adequate pension system and this is something we are aiming for.
With regard to further policy developments, I am currently considering options with regard to the oversight of future pension policy direction.
129 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Social Protection when redundancy payment will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [5933/12]
A redundancy lump sum claim in respect of the person concerned was received on 29 September 2011. The Department is currently processing redundancy lump sum claims received at the start of June 2011.
130 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of rent supplement recipients in County Donegal; the total number who now face cuts to their payments; and the average level of the proposed cuts for each recipient. [5965/12]
131 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of rent supplement recipients in County Mayo; the total number who now face cuts to their payments; and the average level of the proposed cuts for each recipient. [5966/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 130 and 131 together.
At end of 2011 there were 2,928 and 2,977 recipients of rent supplement in counties Mayo and Donegal respectively. Rent supplement provides short-term support to eligible people living in private rented accommodation, whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation costs and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source. Since 2005, rent supplement expenditure has increased from €369 million to a provisional outturn of €503 million in 2011. The number of persons claiming the allowance increased from almost 60,200 persons in 2005 to over 96,800 at end 2011, a 61% increase.
As the Department currently funds approximately 40% of the private rented sector it is essential that State support for rents are kept under review, reflect current market conditions and do not distort the market in a way that could increase rent prices for others, such as low paid workers and students.
New maximum rent limits came into force on 1 January 2012. These new limits are in line with the most up to date market data available. The emphasis of the rent limit review was to ensure that maximum value for money was achieved whilst at the same time ensuring that people on rent supplement are not priced out of the market for private rented accommodation.
All new rent supplement applications are subject to these limits though no adjustments are required in respect of existing claims which are already within the new prescribed limits. Existing claims will be reassessed using the new limits; most claims are reviewed every six months, or when an existing lease expires.
Where a claim is under review and the rent is above the new maximum limit the customer is being asked to contact the landlord to renegotiate the rent. Where a landlord does not agree to reduce the rent to the new rates departmental officials will discuss the options open to the tenant up to and including seeking alternative accommodation. Departmental guidance to the officers administering rent supplement states that where negotiation with the landlord fails then rent supplement may continue to be paid for a period of up to thirteen weeks at the higher rate. However, once the lease has expired the tenant will be expected to find suitable accommodation at below the new limits in force.
The rent limit review will have no impact on the income of a person in receipt of rent supplement. The impact of the change in the rent limits will be on the amounts received by landlords who rent to rent supplement recipients.
132 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an appeal for disability allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [5970/12]
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing in this case on 9 February 2012. The person concerned has been notified of the arrangements for the hearing.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
133 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding rent arrears in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 3. [5973/12]
The person concerned is in receipt of her full entitlement to rent supplement based on her household circumstances, since 2 August 2010.
134 Deputy Heather Humphreys asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan may expect to receive their redundancy payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6042/12]
A redundancy lump sum claim in respect of the person concerned was received on 10 August 2011. The Department is currently processing lump sum claims received at the start of June 2011.
135 Deputy Heather Humphreys asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan may expect to receive their redundancy payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6047/12]
A redundancy lump sum claim in respect of the person concerned was received on 21 December 2011. It is hoped that the claim will be finalised in the coming weeks.
136 Deputy Dara Murphy asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a group (details supplied) in County Cork have had their training allowance reduced from €31.80 to €20 per week; the reason they were given such short notice regarding this cut; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6048/12]
The matter referred to in the question refers to a training programme and therefore comes under the remit of the Department of Education and Skills.
137 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding community employment schemes (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6083/12]
Community Employment (CE) is a valuable resource in the provision of a range of services to communities. However it is acknowledged that its effectiveness in terms of labour market progression is somewhat limited. The report ‘Supports and Services for Unemployed Jobseeker's: Challenges and Opportunities in a Time of Recession', published in August 2011 by the National Economic and Social Council, was critical in terms of labour market progression.
The budget for CE is some €315 million for 2012. The massive increase in unemployment requires that as many places as possible are open to a broader range of Jobseeker's. The reduction in training and employment grants was implemented in the context of the overarching need to ensure that all exchequer expenditure is targeted appropriately, which I consider to be a reasonable objective. The total number of CE places available and the number of CE supervisors is not affected.
I have directed that a review of the financial resources of individual schemes be completed by the end of March. The purpose of the review is to examine the income and funding of sponsoring organisations in terms of their ability to continue to deliver the programme. As part of the review alternative sources of support will be examined, particularly the level of funding from other State agencies. The review will also seek to establish if income is generated by scheme activity and the potential for utilisation of these funds to cover project costs. The outcome of the review will provide a clear picture of the core funding required for each CE scheme. This will assist my Department in ensuring a fair distribution of the funding available for these schemes.
I have given assurances to community and voluntary organisations that no CE scheme will be forced to close as a result of the reductions in training and material grants, pending the completion of this review at the end of March. This guarantee will be funded by my Department from its 2012 allocation.
In conclusion, I would like to assure you of my full appreciation of the value of CE schemes locally. The focus now is on achieving improved outcomes both in terms of service provided at local level and job progression for CE participants themselves.
138 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Carlow will be informed of the result of their application for domiciliary care allowance; and if she will expedite a response. [6114/12]
An application for domiciliary care allowance was received from the person concerned on 4 July 2011. The application was refused as the child was not considered to satisfy the medical criteria. The person concerned was notified of the decision on 3 October 2011 and they have since appealed the decision. As part of the appeal process, the application has been forwarded to another of the Department's Medical Assessors for further consideration, including a review of any new information supplied. Upon receipt of their opinion, the case will be forwarded for consideration by the Appeals Office, if necessary.
140 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will expedite an oral hearing on an appeal for domiciliary care in respect of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6141/12]
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing in this case.
There has been a very significant increase in the number of appeals received by the Social Welfare Appeals Office since 2007 when the intake was 14,070 to 2010 and 2011 when the intake rose to 32,432 and 31,241 respectively. This has significantly impacted on the processing time for appeals which require oral hearings and, in order to be fair to all appellants, they are dealt with in strict chronological order.
While every effort is being made to deal with the large numbers awaiting oral hearing as quickly as possible, it is not possible to give a date when the person's oral hearing will be heard, but s/he will be informed when arrangements have been made.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
141 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will provide information on a redundancy application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the current status of this application; when a decision can be expected on this matter; if her attention has been drawn to the hardship being caused in this case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6149/12]
A redundancy lump sum claim in respect of the person concerned was received on 9 August 2011. The Department is currently processing redundancy lump sum claims received at the start of June 2011.
142 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Social Protection when it is envisaged that employees will require 30 years of PRSI contributions to qualify for a full contributory pension; and if her attention has been drawn to the fact that this will have a detrimental effect on women who resigned from their work to take care of a family for a number of years. [6156/12]
The challenges facing the Irish pension system are significant. There are currently six people of working age for every pensioner and this ratio is expected to decrease to approximately two to one by 2050. In addition, those aged over 65 will account for a greater proportion of the population while the proportion who are of working age is expected to decline. With increases in life expectancy, more people are living to pension age and living longer in retirement. The period for which an average pension will be paid will be greater than the period for which a pension is paid at present. This has obvious and significant implications in relation to the future costs of State pension provision.
As part of a series of planned reforms to pensions a ‘total contributions approach' to State pension will be adopted to replace the current averaging system. The current proposed date for its introduction is 2020. Under this system, the level of pension paid will be directly proportionate to the number of social insurance contributions made by a person over his or her working life. This change reflects the potential that people now have to accumulate contributions as a result of the comprehensive nature of social insurance coverage which has been in place for 20 years, and the growth in the labour force over that period. Accordingly, a total contributions requirement of 30 years' contributions and credited contributions for a maximum pension will be introduced. The amount of credits which can be used to claim pension will be capped at 10 years. Under the new approach, a minimum rate of State pension (contributory) (SPC) will be payable at one third (10/30ths) of the maximum rate, which will be 30/30ths and a person will accumulate 1/30th of a pension for each year of contributions up to a maximum of 30/30ths.
I do not accept that total contributions will be detrimental to women. In fact, the opposite is envisaged as this reform will replace the current averaging system which can create anomalies, particularly for women. Under the current averaging system the average is calculated from the date a person enters into insurance until pension age whereas under the total contributions system a contribution has equal value regardless of at what stage in a person's working career it was made. This can allow people to achieve a higher average contribution rate — and thus a higher level of pension — even where they have a lower total number of contributions paid. This reform will bring transparency and fairness to the eligibility for pension and will assist people with gaps in their records.
The homemaker's scheme was introduced in 1994 to make qualification for State pension (contributory) easier for those who take time out of the workforce for caring duties. The scheme allows up to 20 years spent caring for children under 12 years of age or incapacitated adults to be disregarded when a person's social insurance record is being averaged for pension purposes.
The scheme will not, of itself, qualify a person for a pension. The standard qualifying conditions, which require a person to enter insurance ten years before pension age, pay a minimum of 260 contributions at the correct rate and achieve a yearly average of at least 10 contributions on their record from the time they enter insurance until they reach pension age, must also be satisfied. From April 2012, 520 contributions (10 years) will be required.
I am currently considering the introduction of a system of homemaker's credits to replace the current disregard from 2012 and allow backdating to 1994 for the purpose of the averaging system that will continue until the total contributions system is introduced. This means that people reaching pension age could have credits rather than disregards applied to their records to cover periods of care since 1994 (up to a maximum of 20 years) and would represent a significant improvement, particularly for women and those who take time out of the workforce for caring duties.
143 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will issue a breakdown of the remuneration packages in place for chief executive officers of all semi-state companies here as of 27 January 2011, specifying in detail any bonus, pension, expenses or other arrangements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6431/12]
There are no semi-State companies under the aegis of the Department of Social Protection.
144 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the number of the objections made by landowners to the proposed inclusion of land in the special protection areas in County Donegal that were accepted, excluding the proposed land from an SPA area; and the number of individual one-to-one consultations or meetings with landowners that were held before these decisions were made. [5963/12]
145 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the number of the objections made by landowners to the proposed inclusion of land in special protection areas in County Mayo were that accepted, excluding the proposed land from an SPA area; and the number of individual one-to-one consultations or meetings with landowners that were held before these decisions were made. [5964/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 144 and 145 together.
For the purposes of this reply, I am referring to the most recent proposed Special Protection Areas put forward by my Department in Donegal and Mayo, that is, those proposed for designation in 2011.
In Donegal, some 260 valid informal, or Stage 1, objections were received from landowners and others concerning the proposed Special Protection Areas for the corncrake in the county. Sixteen objections were submitted in relation to proposed Special Protection Areas in Mayo.
Decisions have yet to be made on the majority of these objections. However, no objection has been deemed to be successful to date.
Staff from my Department have attended a number of public meetings in relation to these designations, and would have met many individual landowners to explain the designation process and to answer questions. However, my Department does not compile statistics on the numbers of such meetings held.
146 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will investigate the delay in payment for bog compensation and ensure that a person (details supplied) has their money paid over as quickly as possible in view of the fact that this landowner is entitled to the new compensation package and did not cut turf in 2011. [6133/12]
The individual referred to in the Question received payment under the Voluntary Bog Purchase Scheme, administered by my Department, on the condition that he would permanently cease turf cutting on sites included in Special Areas of Conservation.
The individual has submitted an application for compensation under the Cessation of Turf Cutting Compensation Scheme, announced by the Government in April 2011, in respect of lands he still holds in a Special Area of Conservation. This application is currently being assessed within my Department.
147 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the numbers who have applied for turfcutter’s compensation; if he will provide a breakdown of numbers for bogs in counties Galway and Roscommon and applicant numbers for County Leitrim; if he will put in place a compensation package for farmers who have bogs in these special areas of compensation and who have not cut turf in the past five years; and if the farmers who had sold bog land under the voluntary bog purchase scheme and who did not receive any payment will be compensated under this or a previous scheme, given that a small number of farmers did in fact sign contracts but have not received payment. [6151/12]
In April 2011, the Government announced a redress package for those affected by the cessation of turf cutting on 53 raised bog special areas of conservation. The package offers qualifying turf cutters the option of a financial payment of €1,000 per year, index linked, over 15 years or, where feasible, relocation to non-designated bogs, where they can continue to cut turf. Those wishing to relocate can avail of the financial payment or the delivery of cut turf while relocation sites are identified and prepared. The costs of acquiring and preparing relocation sites will be met by the State.
My Department is currently processing almost 650 applications for compensation under this Cessation of Turf Cutting Compensation Scheme. The majority of applications relate to the 29 raised bog special areas of conservation designated between 1997 and 1999 and for which the deadline for the receipt of applications has now passed. To date, 51 applicants have received payments under the scheme.
For the 24 sites designated up to 2002, the closing date for the receipt of applications was 29 February 2012 and, as such, more applications are expected to be received in the coming weeks.
If an individual has a legal interest in one of the 53 designated sites and had not been extracting turf in the relevant five year period, my Department is willing to examine the feasibility of relocating such interests to alternative non-designated bogs.
Details of the number of applications received under the Cessation of Turf Cutting Compensation Scheme and the number of payments made to date for Cos. Galway and Roscommon are set out in the following table.
There are no sites in Co. Leitrim affected by the cessation of turf cutting on raised bog special areas of conservation.
Since 1999 my Department has operated a Voluntary Bog Purchase Scheme under which sites in designated bogs have been purchased by the Department at agreed rates. In May 2010, this scheme was closed to new applicants. Where applicants under the Voluntary Bog Purchase Scheme have received a letter of offer but contracts have not been signed, my Department will be writing to applicants to outline their options under the Cessation of Turf Cutting Compensation Scheme.
|
Site Code |
Site Name |
County |
Number of applications received |
Number of payments |
|
000231 |
Barroughter Bog |
Galway |
22 |
2 |
|
000248 |
Cloonmoylan Bog |
Galway |
38 |
6 |
|
000285 |
Kilsallagh Bog |
Galway |
15 |
2 |
|
000296 |
Lisnageeragh Bog and Ballinstack Turlough |
Galway |
12 |
1 |
|
000297 |
Lough Corrib |
Galway/Mayo |
28 |
3 |
|
000301 |
Lough Lurgeen Bog/ Glenamaddy Turlough |
Galway |
19 |
|
|
000326 |
Shankill West Bog |
Galway |
6 |
1 |
|
000592 |
Bellanagare Bog |
Roscommon |
97 |
6 |
|
000597 |
Carrowbehy/Caher Bog |
Roscommon |
2 |
|
|
000600 |
Cloonchambers Bog |
Roscommon |
6 |
|
|
000604 |
Derrinea Bog |
Roscommon |
1 |
|
|
000614 |
Cloonshanville Bog |
Roscommon |
6 |
2 |
|
001242 |
Carrownagappul Bog |
Galway |
85 |
1 |
|
002110 |
Corliskea/Trien/Cloonfelliv Bog |
Galway/Roscommon |
16 |
2 |
|
Site Code |
Site Name |
County |
Number of applications received |
Number of payments |
|
440 |
Lough Ree |
Roscommon/ Longford/Westmeath |
10 |
|
|
595 |
Callow Bog |
Roscommon |
6 |
|
|
2298 |
River Moy |
Mayo/Roscommon/Sligo |
3 |
|
|
2338 |
Drumalough Bog |
Roscommon |
1 |
|
|
2339 |
Ballynamona Bog and Corkip Lough |
Roscommon |
4 |
|
|
2347 |
Camderry Bog |
Galway |
0 |
|
|
2349 |
Corbo Bog |
Roscommon |
3 |
|
|
2350 |
Curraghlehanagh Bog |
Galway |
9 |
|
|
2352 |
Monivea Bog |
Galway |
0 |
|
|
2354 |
Tullaghanrock Bog |
Roscommon |
1 |
|
|
2356 |
Ardgraigue Bog |
Galway |
0 |
148 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the steps he will take to have a bog purchase deal completed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Leitrim. [6152/12]
The land referred to by the Deputy is located in a Natural Heritage Area (NHA) designated in 2004. In 2010, the then Government decided that turf-cutting should come to an end on raised bog NHAs at the end of 2013. However, the current Programme for Government contains an undertaking to review the situation with regard to turf cutting on NHAs.
On 15 April 2011, the Government made a number of decisions in relation to turf cutting in Ireland, including the putting in place of a compensation package for those who are required to cease cutting, the establishment of a Peatlands Council and the drawing up of a national strategy on peatland conservation and management. In the context of the national strategy, the position regarding raised bog NHAs, which are designated under national legislation, will be examined in advance of the 2014 cutting season in accordance with the Programme for Government.
My Department is giving priority to putting in place the compensation requirements in relation to the cessation of cutting on the 53 raised bog Special Areas of Conservation. In the circumstances, and in light of the decision to review the approach to these areas more generally, the issue of any further purchase of land/rights in NHA bogs, including the land referred to, is being kept under review.
149 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will reactivate the traditional ring-netting of salmon on the stretch of water along Inver Strand, County Donegal, where the practice was undertaken for generations. [5962/12]
The strand at Inver bay is inside the half seaward mile of the defined mouth of the river Eany. Salmon fishing can take place by ordinary draft net outside the half seaward mile in accordance with the regulations.
In relation to the protection and conservation of salmon stocks, under the Fisheries (Consolidation) Act 1959 — Part VII; Section 94 (1)—
It shall not be lawful for any person (other than the owner of a several fishery within limits thereof) to shoot, draw, or use any net for the taking salmon at the mouth of any river of within half a mile seaward or half a mile inwards or along the coast from the defined mouth of any river.
The defined (River) mouth of the River Eany is: — a straight line drawn from in a south-easterly direction from a point in the town land of Fanaghans to a point in the town land of Clover Hill or Drumbeg (D13 of 9 May 1864).
The legal limits of the fishery, which has been communicated to licence applicants over previous seasons, is necessary to conserve and protect salmon spawning escapement to the river, particularly in light of the overall widespread decline in Atlantic salmon stocks over recent years.
The permitted area for commercial salmon draft netting under current legislation has been communicated annually to all salmon draft net licence applicants.
150 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has agreed on a tendering process for the proposed pay-as-you-save contracts to insulate domestic and public buildings; and if so, to provide details in this regard. [6023/12]
The Programme for Government includes a commitment to roll out a Pay-As-You-Save (PAYS) energy retrofit scheme for domestic buildings after 2013. Such a scheme would substitute Exchequer funding currently being provided to the Better Energy Programme.
The PAYS concept is an innovative financing mechanism that would allow consumers to finance upgrades directly through the energy savings generated. It is also envisaged at this time that such a scheme would encourage energy efficiency measures in non-domestic buildings and premises. My Department has established a project team to undertake the necessary technical and financial analysis of a PAYS model in the Irish context and I will bring forward proposals to Government shortly. There are considerable complexities involved in the development of the PAYS scheme. Any scheme design will be subject to comprehensive consultation with stakeholders.
151 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to introduce a waiver scheme whereby he will defray some or all of the costs that must be borne by persons and families to access the new Saorview service in geographic locations when terrestrial television signals have been exceptionally and consistently poor for many years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6082/12]
I am very much aware of the challenges digital switchover brings, in particular for households that are reliant on the existing "free to air" analogue TV network. However, I wish to make clear from the outset, that I have no plans to introduce waivers for persons to upgrade their television equipment.
All households solely reliant on the existing "free to air" analogue TV network will need to upgrade to digital TV by 24th October 2012, the date of analogue switch off, or they will lose access to television services. TV households can choose to upgrade to digital TV by moving to a pay-TV service or by upgrading to Saorview, Ireland's national digital TV aerial network, which was launched by RTÉ on 26th May 2011.
To upgrade to Saorview, TV households will need to purchase either a Saorview approved set top box to connect to their existing TV or a new Saorview digital TV. In some cases, depending on the type of aerial, the orientation and age of the aerial, some TV households may need a new aerial or aerial adjustment. The number of these is estimated to be around 20,000 TV households.
Experience from other European countries indicates that the cost of set top boxes and other digital receivers reduces as the date for digital switchover approaches and as competition increases in the market. There is clear evidence that this is now happening in Ireland with affordable set top boxes that meet the Saorview standard now coming on the market, as well as a range of suitable digital televisions. In addition, experience from other European countries also shows that the availability of accurate and reliable information and the provision of practical assistance is the most effective approach towards assisting people in making the switch to digital television.
In this regard, therefore, to overcome the challenges that digital switchover brings, I have undertaken to deliver a substantial information campaign providing households with information on the digital switchover and on their options for going digital. This information campaign commenced in quarter four 2011. There are a number of strands to the campaign including a national telephone helpline and a national advertising and public relations campaign. The campaign will run up to the end of 2012.
In conjunction with this, my Department has been working to address the particular information and assistance needs of vulnerable households as they prepare to go digital. In this context, the expertise and local knowledge of the many voluntary and charity organisations around the country is of critical importance in ensuring the success of the switchover process. On January 10th 2012 I signed an agreement with national voluntary organisation, the Wheel, to develop and operate a nationwide community outreach digital switchover programme.
The Wheel, in conjunction with voluntary and community organisations throughout the country, will roll out a countrywide Outreach Programme in April 2012, which will provide additional assistance and advice at community level to those who may find the move to digital TV difficult. The aim of the Outreach Programme is to ensure that everybody is made aware of the switchover and that no TV viewers are left without a TV service once the national analogue TV service switches off on October 24th 2012. A press release issued and is available on my Department's website at www.dcenr.gov.ie.
152 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to provide cutting-edge telecommunications technology in all areas throughout the country, urban and rural; if he has had discussions with interested parties with a view to expanding, extending and improving the service and its availability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6090/12]
The provision of electronic communications services is, in the first instance, a matter for private sector service providers operating in Ireland's fully liberalised telecommunications market, regulated by the independent regulator, the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg).
Under the NewERA proposals in the Programme for Government, there is a commitment to co-invest with the private sector and commercial semi-State sector to provide Next Generation Broadband access to every home and business in the State.
The Next Generation Broadband Taskforce, which I convened last summer, has an important role to play in this regard. The Taskforce, which I chair, also comprises Minister of State, Fergus O'Dowd, T.D., the CEOs of all of the major telecommunications companies operating in the Irish market, as well as CEOs of some other companies that provide broadband services. The purpose of the Taskforce is to discuss and report on policy issues and proposals in relation to the provision of high speed broadband across Ireland.
The Taskforce, and four Working Groups reporting to it, are considering issues such as targets, spectrum policy, private sector investment plans, and the removal of barriers (for example, local authority way leave processes) in order to facilitate investment. I expect that the Taskforce will help to identify how best to deliver wider customer access to high-speed broadband generally and thereby assist in delivering on the commitment in the Programme for Government. The Taskforce will conclude its deliberations shortly. I intend to consider the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the report of the Taskforce and to make a submission to Government in this regard. It is my objective to move quickly thereafter to put in place the optimal policy environment for the delivery of high speed broadband.
153 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to further encourage energy conservation; if he has in mind the identification of specific targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6093/12]
Ireland's energy policy framework and specifically the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP), contains a long-standing commitment to deliver 20% energy savings in 2020, with a more ambitious target of 33% for the public sector as part of a drive for Government to lead by example.
The current NEEAP sets out actions for the period to 2020 to achieve the energy efficiency targets. The savings identified in the Action Plan represent approximately €1.6 billion in annual energy cost reductions for the economy in 2020 whilst also reducing our CO2 emissions by approximately 5.7 million tonnes per annum.
To put this target in perspective, the national 20% energy saving target is equivalent to 32,000 GWh (gigawatt hours) saved by 2020. The actions outlined in our second NEEAP, which I will shortly be bringing to Government, are projected to realise 33,500 GWh of energy savings in 2020. While the latest projections are positive, a fundamental change in the energy sector, focused on the efficient management and correct use of energy, will be crucial to achieving our ambitious national targets.
Moreover the EU Commission's proposed Energy Efficiency Directive, which is currently under negotiation, signals an intention to place a mandatory obligation scheme on all energy suppliers, with a fixed target for energy savings. This will prove challenging, and with the possibility of binding targets to come, we need to be aware of the demands of future EU policy measures.
My Department has committed funding of €76 million towards the Better Energy programme in 2012. Better Energy: Homes encourages homeowners to improve the energy performance of their homes through the installation of upgrade measures, including roof and wall insulation, boiler upgrades and heating controls. Almost 48,000 homes benefited from energy efficiency upgrades in 2011.
Better Energy: Warmer Homes delivers a range of energy efficiency measures to households that are vulnerable to energy poverty with a total of 20,388 being addressed in 2011. The scheme is delivered through a range of Community Based Organisations (CBOs), augmented by a panel of private contractors in order to ensure national coverage.
Better Energy: Workplaces provides support for implementing a wide range of qualifying sustainable energy upgrading projects in the public, commercial, industrial and community sectors. In 2011 €11.5m was made available to the scheme, which supported 85 sustainable energy (mainly energy efficiency) investment projects of differing sizes and complexities.
In the public sector, the most significant cost-cutting and energy saving potential lies in improving the energy performance of new and existing buildings and facilities. This will be a key focus of the new National Retrofit Programme, which will seek to raise financing from institutional investors for retrofit work in the public sector.
The Public Sector Programme of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), is the main delivery mechanism for energy efficiency actions by public sector bodies, which provides assessments and training to all public sector bodies and a grant programme to support energy efficiency measures. The SEAI Energy in Business Programme supports efforts by business to improve energy efficiency and competitiveness through structured energy management. It now involves the 150 largest business energy users and 2,000 small businesses.
154 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if it was a direct instruction from the European Commission Directorate-General for Competition to allow AER VI projects to terminate early, or his interpretation of a REFIT clause; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6099/12]
155 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if there are specific rules or regulations which prevent him reclaiming for the public service obligation fund the 35% bonus payments from early terminating AER VI contracts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6100/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 154 and 155 together.
The Alternative Energy Requirement (AER) was a series of 6 competitive tender schemes to support new renewable generation that were run from the mid 1990s to the mid 2000s. AER was subsequently replaced by the feed-in tariff scheme known as REFIT. The AER schemes were all introduced prior to full electricity market liberalisation.
At the time that State Aid clearance was being sought from the European Commission for REFIT 1 in 2007, DG Competition inserted a clause in the terms and conditions of the scheme that generators were free to leave the scheme and join the open market, either by agreement with their supply company or in the event of disagreement, by serving 12 months notice. Any generator that voluntarily leaves a support scheme in respect of a particular project will not be eligible to re-enter the support scheme at any later date in respect of that project.
It was also concluded by my Department that the concerns expressed by the European Commission about a continuing intervention in the market to deliver a public policy for any period longer than the participating generator required in REFIT should also be applied on a similar basis to the AER programme.
As a result, my Department informed ESB Customer Supply (as the sole contracting party to the AER contracts) that nothing in the AER rules should be interpreted to preclude an undertaking from exiting an AER Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), subject to adequate protection being provided to ESB Customer Supply, and that ESB should terminate its AER PPAs with any AER Generator who requests such termination as soon as is reasonably practicable after the AER Generator notifies to ESB Customer Supply its intention to exit the AER programme; or, where ESB is the Intermediary of the relevant AER Generator under the Trading and Settlement Code, on the expiry of the minimum period prescribed under the Code in respect of revocation by the AER Generator of ESB's authority to act in that capacity; or within a period not exceeding 12 months from the receipt of notification from an AER generator of its decision to terminate an AER PPA, whichever event occurs first.
Accordingly, under these provisions, an AER VI contracted renewable generators are allowed to leave their 15-year PPA contracts at any time subject to notification periods not exceeding 12 months.
The AER VI competition included a provision whereby an applicant could opt for an accelerated payment in the first seven and a half years in the scheme, where the price applicable could be increased by 35% during that period and decreased by 35% in the following seven and a half years. This was a feature of the competition.
DG Competition, in insisting on an exit clause from REFIT, was seeking to ensure not to impose on renewable generation a requirement to participate in a scheme, when the renewable generators considered that they were capable of participating in the open market without further support.
The Department, in applying this condition to AER, did so in a similar spirit. The AER VI projects that wish to leave may do so without condition, if they consider that they can now compete in the open market. No conditions were applied that would seek to retain the AER VI projects in the scheme beyond when they considered they could compete in the open market. An attempt to retrospectively reclaim payments from the PSO would most likely result in renewable generators remaining in the scheme, rather than competing in the open market and this was considered contrary to the policy DG Competition was trying to encourage.
156 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will issue a breakdown of the remuneration packages in place for chief executive officers of all semi-state companies here as of 27 January 2011, specifying in detail any bonus, pension, expenses or other arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6423/12]
I wish to advise the Deputy that the Government decided that the salary range for newly appointed CEOs of Commercial Semi State Companies under the aegis of my Department should be as set out in the following table with effect from 21st June 2011:
|
Name of Organisation |
New Appointment Rate |
|
ESB |
€318,083 |
|
An Post |
€240,448 |
|
RTÉ |
€219,871 |
|
BGÉ |
€191,014 |
|
Bord na Móna |
€191,014 |
|
EirGrid |
€158,459 |
|
TG4 |
€139,104 |
The Annual Reports of the companies contain details of incumbent CEOs' salaries. The Annual Reports should be available in the library of the House. None of the CEOs receive a bonus.
Pensions are negotiated on a case by case basis between the relevant company and the CEO as part of the new contract, in accordance with the Guidelines on contracts, remuneration and other conditions of Chief Executives and senior management of Commercial State Bodies, subject to statutory provision for the approval of remuneration and terms by Ministers and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform. Expenses arrangements are an operational matter for the companies.
157 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will develop an integrated coastal zone management plan for the Donegal Bay area, including Inver Bay, to resolve outstanding issues in the bay and protect localised fish stocks. [5961/12]
The Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2011 already provide that a planning authority's development plan may include objectives for, inter alia:
Regulating, restricting or controlling development in areas at risk of flooding (whether inland or coastal), erosion and other natural hazards;
Regulating, restricting and controlling the development of coastal areas and development in the vicinity of inland waterways; and
Regulating, restricting and controlling development on the foreshore, or any part of the foreshore.
I understand that a number of planning authorities have already included objectives for integrated coastal zone management in their development plans. The drafting of the General Scheme of a Bill to modernise the foreshore consent system and integrate it within the wider planning system is being progressed by my Department. It is intended that the proposed legislation will, inter alia, require coastal planning authorities to set mandatory objectives for integrated coastal zone management in their development plans as part of a wider plan-led approach to the foreshore. Issues relating specifically to the protection of fish stocks and other fishery related concerns are a matter for the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
158 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the provisions he intends to put in place for those in financial hardship who may be required to upgrade their septic tanks as a result of the Water Services (Amendment) Bill; the person who will be responsible for administering the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5949/12]
I have previously signalled my intention to keep under review the question of providing financial assistance to householders whose domestic waste water treatment systems are deemed, following inspection, to require substantial remediation or upgrading. The position regarding the extent of problems and remediation costs will be clearer once inspections are underway. Any support provided would have to take account of the overall budgetary situation and the financial situation of the households concerned.
159 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the criteria considered to judge whether a person has ties to a community; whether somebody who has lived in an area for four years should be considered as having ties to the community; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6013/12]
Section 20 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2009 dealing with social housing support, and related Social Housing Assessment Regulations, 2011, was commenced on 1 April 2011. A new standard procedure for assessing applicants for social housing was introduced in every housing authority.
A household may apply to the housing authority for the functional area—
where it normally resides — this would include a household residing in rented accommodation, or
where it has a local connection.
The Regulations require a housing authority, in determining if a household has a local connection, to have regard to whether a household member:
lived in the area for a continuous 5 year period at any time in the past;
is employed in the area or within 15 km of the area;
is in full-time education, or attending specialist medical care in the area;
has a relative (defined in the Regulations) living in the area for 2 years or longer.
A household meeting either the residence or local connection criterion may specify up to three areas of choice in any housing authority in the county (including city) concerned. At least one of these choices must be in the functional area of the housing authority of application. Qualified households will appear on the waiting lists of each of the housing authorities in respect of which they have expressed areas of choice. A housing authority may also decide at its discretion to consider an application for social housing support from a household that does not meet these residence or local connection criteria. In such a case, the household may express areas of choice within the functional area of that authority only. These provisions, taken together, provide a reasonable level of choice for applicants for social housing support.
160 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding the household charge; where a property is let, whether the tenant pay the household charge rather than the landlord, as the landlord pays the €200 second home charge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6018/12]
The Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 and the Local Government (Charges) Act 2009, as amended, set out the legislation underpinning the household charge and the charge on non-principal private residences respectively. Under the legislation, it is the owner of a residential property who is liable for the household charge and the charge on non-principal private residences.
161 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when work will commence on a main drainage scheme (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6019/12]
The Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas Library, provides for the development of a comprehensive range of new water services infrastructure in County Cork. The Programme includes contracts under construction and to commence to the value of some €230 million in the county during the life of the Programme.
Contracts for both a waste water treatment plant (Design Build Operate) and network for Youghal Sewerage Scheme are included among the contracts to start during the period of the 2010-2012 Programme at an estimated total cost of €18 million. Cork County Council has recently submitted revised contract documents to my Department for both the waste water treatment plant and network contracts and this documentation is currently under examination. A decision will be conveyed to the Council as soon as possible.
162 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the policy in place with regard to updating files with local authority housing departments; when an applicant wants to change or update their address, whether they can do so at the counter without having to fill out the entire application form again; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6020/12]
The Social Housing Assessment Regulations 2011, which came into force on 1 April, 2011, make provision for social housing assessment and review of such assessments and provide for a standard application form for applications for social housing support.
Once a household has been deemed qualified for social housing support, and entered on the waiting list, it is the responsibility of the household to keep the housing authority updated of any change in details or circumstances which may affect the household's eligibility or priority. This process of notifying, for example, a change of address, does not, of itself, require re-submission of an application form.
However, the housing authority has the power to request the household to supply additional information verifying the change in details or circumstances and may, on foot of the updated information, decide to review the social housing assessment carried out in respect of the household. If the household was on the waiting list prior to the 1 April 2011, the housing authority may, at its discretion, require the household to complete the prescribed standard application form as part of this review.
Questions Nos. 163 and 164 answered with Question No. 7.
165 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the plans he has put in place to establish Ireland as a leading player in the global carbon market. [6024/12]
The Programme for Government includes the objective that "Ireland will be developed as a centre of excellence in green finance and carbon management, through the creation of an enabling, co-ordinated and supportive environment."
In this regard, I refer to the comprehensive reply which An Taoiseach provided to Question No. 1 of 22 November 2011 which, inter alia, refers to the potential for green financial services growth outlined in the new strategy for the international financial services industry in Ireland 2011-2016.
166 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the progress made on the commitment to introduce a single national building inspectorate service; if he will clarify whether this inspectorate will include fire safety and whether it will be answerable to local authorities. [6025/12]
167 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the contact he has had with Dublin City Council in his efforts to improve building regulations. [6026/12]
168 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on whether it is of the utmost urgency to introduce legislation that establishes a new fire safety inspectorate and certification regime and which makes it mandatory for builders and architects to provide evidence of compliance with building regulations, including fire standards. [6027/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 166, 167 and 168 together.
I announced, in July 2011, a number of measures to be advanced by my Department and local authorities with a view to improving compliance with, and oversight of, the requirements of the Building Regulations and which will make it mandatory for owners, builders and designers of buildings to provide evidence of compliance with building regulations, including fire safety requirements. In broad terms the measures will involve:—
(a) the introduction of mandatory certificates of compliance by builders and designers of buildings confirming that the statutory requirements of the Building Regulations have been met;
(b) the lodgement of drawings at both commencement and completion of construction, demonstrating how the building has been designed and built to comply with all parts of the Building Regulations;
(c) more efficient pooling of building control staff and resources across the local authority sector to ensure more effective and meaningful oversight of building activity;
(d) standardised approaches and common protocols to ensure nationwide consistency in the administration of building control functions;
(e) better support and further development of the building control function nationwide.
Mandatory certification, lodgement of drawings and improved inspection arrangements as outlined above are key reforms which, I believe, will have the capacity to improve the quality of buildings and will lead to further strengthening of the regulatory regime as early as possible in 2012.
The Local Government Efficiency Review Group recommended in its Report in July 2010 that a single building inspectorate service could be established on a regional basis to streamline the approach to the inspection of property. The matter is being kept under review in the context of the above-mentioned actions being taken at Department and at Local Authority levels to further the development of the Building Control function.
Building Regulations are subject to ongoing review by my Department, working in conjunction with the Building Regulations Advisory Body (BRAB). The membership of BRAB is comprised of nominated representatives of key Construction Industry stakeholders (both private and public sectors). Several local authority officials, including a senior official from Dublin City Council, currently serve on BRAB.
169 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if there has been a rationalisation impact assessment on household waste collection; and if he intends introducing a Bill to introduce competitive tendering for household waste collection, under which 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 under the system of market structuring known as franchise bidding. [6028/12]
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to introduce competitive tendering for household waste collection, under which 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.
A public consultation designed to inform policy development concluded in September 2011. A large number of responses were received from a broad spectrum of interests. As one might expect, a consensus is not apparent and on almost all of the relevant issues, a considerable breadth of opinion was expressed. All of the responses received, in addition to a summary document, are available on my Department's website, www.environ.ie.
A Regulatory Impact Analysis, which will inform Government's deliberations, is being finalised. I expect to be in a position to submit final proposals in relation to household waste collection to Government by Easter this year. The nature and extent of any legislative requirements will depend on the outcome of the policy development process.
170 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government how he will meet the commitment to increase the stock of social housing with a diminishing capital budget as outlined in the report on infrastructural and capital investment. [6029/12]
The Government's new housing policy statement, published in June 2011, will serve as a framework for a sequence of legislative and policy initiatives in the short to medium term. Based on a number of fundamental principles and goals that will form the foundation of a substantial reform programme, the new framework for housing policy responds to current and emerging conditions in the housing sector, taking account of the dramatic cycle of rapid growth and sudden collapse in the residential property market. The centrepiece of the approach is to chart a way forward for housing policy in Ireland by placing greater emphasis on choice, equity across housing tenures, and delivering quality outcomes for the resources invested.
In terms of the delivery of social housing, the policy statement clearly identifies that the main focus in terms of supports provided by Government will be on meeting the most acute needs — the housing support needs of those unable to provide for their accommodation from their own resources. In light of the reduction in the social housing capital budget since 2008, it is not possible to return to very large capital funded construction programmes by local authorities. Nevertheless, we are committed to responding more quickly and on a larger scale to social housing support needs through a variety of mechanisms including through increased provision of social housing.
Delivery of social housing will be significantly facilitated through more flexible funding models such as RAS and leasing, but the Government is also committed to developing other funding mechanisms that will increase the supply of permanent new social housing. Such mechanisms will include options to purchase, build to lease and the sourcing of loan finance by approved housing bodies for construction and acquisition. There is also obvious potential, across a range of housing programmes, for the Government's objective of sourcing and providing suitable residential units for use as social housing to be aligned with the commercial objectives of the National Asset Management Agency (NAMA).
171 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if it is necessary for those applying for local authority housing to supply leases for all rented addresses over the past five years. [6030/12]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 14 of 30 November, 2011, which sets out the position in this matter.
172 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government how he plans to move towards zero-carbon homes. [6031/12]
I refer to the reply given to Question No. 32 of 30 November 2011, which sets out the position in this matter.
173 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when we can expect legislation that will allow local authorities to take housing estates in charge; and whether the legislation will make allowance for the financial implications for the relevant local authority. [6032/12]
The Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 included an amendment of the existing legislation to provide that a planning authority may take in charge an unfinished estate, at the request of the owners of the housing units, at any time after the expiration of the planning permission, in situations where enforcement actions have commenced or where the planning authority consider that enforcement action will not result in the satisfactory completion of the estate by the developer. Planning authorities have also been empowered to take in charge part of an estate or some, but not all, of the facilities in an estate.
174 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he intends amending the 2010 Planning and Development Act to rebalance power towards elected representatives and the public. [6033/12]
The Government remains committed to ensuring the highest standards of public consultation and democratic accountability in planning and the planning code is kept under review in my Department to ensure that there continues to be appropriate participation by public representatives and by third parties in decision-making and policy formulation. The role of elected representatives in the planning process is part of that wider consideration. In the context of forthcoming Guidelines to Planning Authorities on Local Area Plans provision is made for further and deeper public consultation with all stakeholders in the process. This will be supplemented by policy guidance in other areas of the planning system.
175 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he has carried out any reviews into funding cuts to programmes funded through social inclusion; and if so, the details of same. [6034/12]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 191 on today's Order Paper which sets out funding for a range of programmes for community groups or local authorities for, inter alia, social inclusion activities.
As part of the Government's Comprehensive Review of Expenditure and the 2012 Estimates process, difficult decisions have had to be taken in relation to prioritising funding for core services in all programme areas, including those related to social inclusion. The funding estimate to support my Department's mainstreamed drugs projects under the Housing programme in 2012 is €100,000 compared with €400,000 in 2011, i.e. a reduction of 75%.
My Department is currently engaging in a consultation process with relevant local authorities and other bodies to explore alternative funding mechanisms for the mainstreamed drugs projects for 2012 and beyond. While this process is underway my Department has agreed to provide pro rata funding to support the mainstreamed projects for the first quarter of 2012. This represents the final housing budget contribution to the projects. It will be a matter for all the public funding bodies, as part of the consultation process, to identify resources to deliver on the overall objectives of the reconfigured projects beyond end March 2012.
Furthermore, in the context of a public funding provision of €260 million for drugs programmes across all Departments and agencies in 2011, my colleague, the Minister of State with responsibility for the National Drugs Strategy is currently undertaking a review of the structures that underpin the National Drugs Strategy at local, regional and national level, including how the current funding structures can be improved or streamlined, particularly in relation to local and regional drugs task forces.
177 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the way in which he expects the cuts to fire and emergency services, from €11.25 million in 2011 to €6 million for 2012, will be made; and if he will explain how the ongoing service will be maintained while importing these cuts into the funding of the services. [6036/12]
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 fire authorities through the setting of general policy and guidance, and the provision of capital funding, including the recoupment (within the overall funding available) of costs incurred by fire authorities in relation to the approved purchase of fire appliances and emergency equipment as well as construction and upgrading of fire stations.
The day to day cost of the provision of fire and emergency services, which is currently of the order of €270m, is met by local authorities, This pays for responding to fires and other emergency incidents, and the support services which are necessary to maintain 24 hour/ 365 emergency capability. In addition, related services such as fire prevention, fire safety inspections and major emergency management, are provided and funded by local authorities.
In keeping with other adjustments to capital programmes, it has been necessary to reduce the fire service capital allocation of my Department for 2012. However, much has been accomplished in the past decade to strengthen the infrastructure of fire services in Ireland. The significant resources provided to local authorities under my Department's fire services capital programme have resulted in a quality fire and rescue infrastructure throughout the country. Most of our fire stations have full facilities, the appliance fleet is in very good shape and specialist equipment is generally regarded as top class.
Given the quality of the existing infrastructure, this year's reduction is not expected to impact on or disrupt the delivery of front line fire service delivery. Continued investment in the fire appliance fleet has been identified as a key national priority for capital investment, given the current constraints on public finances. In order to deliver cost efficiencies in line with recommendations of the Local Authority Efficiency Review Group, a programme is currently underway which involves fire authorities aggregating demand and inviting tenders for 17 fire appliances, following the development of an agreed national fire appliance specification.
178 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the actions he will be taking to ensure his Department will spend only €1.9 million for 2012, as opposed to the €4.2 million spent in 2011, on the carbon fund. [6037/12]
As part of an overall approach to meeting Ireland's Kyoto Protocol target in the commitment period 2008-2012, the Government entered into an agreement with the World Bank in January 2007 to invest €20 million in two of their managed carbon funds by way of promissory notes, for the acquisition of carbon credits. €10m was invested in the BioCarbon Fund and €10m in the Carbon Fund for Europe.
Under the Carbon Fund Act 2007, the National Treasury Management Agency is the designated purchasing agent for the State. The cost of purchases is met through the Carbon Fund. Each drawdown by the NTMA on the Carbon Fund is reimbursed to the Central Fund in the following year from my Department's Vote. In 2010, €4.1m was paid by NTMA from the Carbon Fund to cover drawdown demands from the World Bank. This €4.1m was reimbursed from subhead D4 of my Department's Vote in 2011. In 2011, a payment of €1,930,386 was made by NTMA to the World Bank in respect of the BioCarbon Fund. This amount will be refunded from my Department's Vote in 2012.
While the overall level of financial commitment to the World Bank Funds is fixed at €20m, the timing and actual amount of the annual drawdowns are not. The quantum and timing of drawdowns are agreed by the participants at the annual general meetings of the Funds and depend, in the main, on progress made with the various projects, which make up the investment portfolio.
179 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, in relation to the alignment steering group, the procedure in the consultation process with local community stakeholders; if stakeholder consultation is important, the reason no member of the steering group has local experience, with all members having only national or international experience; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6054/12]
I established a Steering Group in September 2011 to advise me on options for improving alignment between local government and local development. I am satisfied that the Groups comprises individuals with an appropriate balance of experience, including extensive experience across the whole spectrum of the local and community development sector, from policy and planning to implementation and delivery at a local level, and programme evaluation.
The Steering Group has undertaken extensive consultation as part of its work. This has involved a written consultation process and meetings with key groups. It has included stakeholders in the local government and local development sectors and representative organisations within the Community and Voluntary sector. Consultation has been an important part of the Group's work and I am confident that it will be reflected in the Group's recommendations.
I expect to receive the final report from the Steering Group shortly.
180 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if those who had to abandon their homes in the Kilmainham area of Dublin and other areas during last year’s flooding and who may not be able to return for many more months may be exempted from the household charge in view of their circumstances. [6061/12]
181 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the residents of Priory Hall in Dublin may be exempted from the household charge in view of their circumstances. [6062/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 180 and 181 together.
The Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 and the Local Government (Household Charge) Regulations 2012 provide the legislative basis for the household charge.
The Act places the household charge under the care and management of the local authorities, and application in particular circumstances is a matter for the relevant local authority. Interpretation of the legislation is a matter for legal advice in individual cases and ultimately a matter for the Courts.
The definition of "residential property" in section 2(1) is relevant when considering whether a residential property that is not used or lived in is liable to the household charge.
There are a number of indicators as to what makes a house suitable for occupation for the purposes of determining any liability to the household charge. The indicators include the structure of the house, whether or not it has a roof, whether or not it is so affected by dampness as to render it unsuitable for habitation, and whether or not it has sanitary facilities, including a water closet and water supply. A property that is not suitable for occupation should not be regarded as a residential property within the meaning of the Act. The Act places the onus on an owner of a residential property to assess his or her liability to the household charge on the liability date (1 January 2012) and, if liable, to declare that liability and to pay the charge in respect of that property by the due date, 31 March 2012.
Under section 4(4) of the Act, an owner of a residential property is entitled to a waiver from payment of a household charge, where the residential property is situated in an unfinished estate which is specified in a list prescribed for the purposes of the section. The Schedule in the Local Government (Household Charge) Regulations 2012 contains the list of developments prescribed for the purposes of the unfinished estates waiver. Priory Hall, Hole in the Wall, Dublin 13, is included in this Schedule.
182 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding the sewage treatment plan for Drimoleague, County Cork; if funding is available to complete this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6070/12]
The Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas Library, provides for the development of a comprehensive range of new water services infrastructure in County Cork. The Programme includes contracts under construction and to commence to the value of some €230 million in the county during the life of the Programme.
Drimoleague Sewerage Scheme is included among the schemes that are to advance through planning during the period of the 2010-2012 Programme. My Department is awaiting the submission by Cork County Council of a design brief for the appointment of a consultant to prepare a Preliminary Report for the scheme.
183 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will clarify the situation regarding the obligation on householders to pay the household charge without being invoiced; if he will clarify that failure to register does not exempt a person from being obliged to pay; if he will explain the legal basis for the registration and payment system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6084/12]
The Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 and the Local Government (Household Charge) Regulations 2012 provide the legislative basis for the household charge.
Under section 5(1) of the Act, the owner of a residential property, who on a liability date, is liable to pay a household charge to a relevant local authority, or who is entitled to a waiver from payment of a household charge under section 4(4), must make and provide to the relevant local authority a declaration stating that he or she is so liable or so entitled, as the case may be. Under section 5(2) of the Act, the declaration must, in the case of a person who is liable to pay a household charge, be accompanied by payment of the household charge in respect of the property concerned.
The Act places the onus on an owner of a residential property to assess his or her liability for the household charge in the first instance and there is no obligation on local authorities to issue notifications or invoices regarding the household charge under the Act.
Significant efforts are being made to ensure that property owners are aware of the household charge and the liability and payment dates. The Local Government Management Agency, which is administering the household charge on a shared services/agency basis on behalf of county and city councils, and local authorities have commenced a national information campaign to advise people of the household charge and their responsibilities in relation to payment of the charge. A similar and successful advertising and information campaign was undertaken in the context of the €200 charge on non-principal private residences on its introduction in 2009 with further advertising taking place each year since. It is also intended that a household charge information leaflet will be issued shortly to residential properties in the State. I am confident that those liable to the household charge will be aware of their obligation to discharge their liability for the charge by 31 March 2012 and thereby avoid any late payment fees or late payment interest.
184 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on the fact that many young persons are being taken off the voters’ register if they stay a number of nights in a city or large town where they work to avoid commuting for long hours but come home each weekend or on other days off, in view of the fact that these young persons regard their permanent address as home and have no social or cultural attachment to the areas in which they work. [6091/12]
The Electoral Act 1992 entitles anyone who has reached the age of eighteen years and who is ordinarily resident in the constituency to which the register relates to be registered as an elector in that constituency. The preparation of the electoral register is a matter for each local registration authority. It is their duty to ensure, as far as possible and with the cooperation of the public, the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the Register.
Section 11 of the Electoral Act 1992 provides that where a person appears to be eligible for registration in two or more registration areas, the registration authorities involved should take steps to ensure that a person is not registered in respect of more than one such registration area. Section 11 also provides that a person is deemed not to have given up ordinary residence if he or she intends to resume residence within eighteen months after giving it up. A written statement by a person that he or she intends to resume residence within eighteen months after giving it up will, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, be accepted by registration authorities as a correct statement.
185 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when he will be allocating funding to Limerick County Council for the housing aid for elderly grant scheme and the housing adaptation grant scheme; the amount of moneys that were given to area offices (details supplied) of Limerick County Council for these grants last year; and the amount that is expected to be given this year. [6134/12]
My Department's involvement with the Housing Adaptation Grant Schemes for Older People and People with a Disability relates primarily to the recoupment of a proportion of local authority expenditure on the payment of individual grants. The grant schemes, introduced in November 2007, are funded by 80% recoupment available from my Department together with a 20% contribution from the resources of the local authority. Allocations are made on a county-at-large basis. It is a matter for each local authority to determine how the funding is apportioned between the various grant measures.
In order to determine the capital allocations for 2012, my Department requested local authorities to submit details of their funding requirements under the grant schemes by 20 January, 2012. The information received is being examined at present and I intend to announce details of the capital allocations to local authorities for this year as soon as possible. In 2011, my Department recouped a total of €1.7 million to Limerick County Council under the grant schemes. Information in relation to grant expenditure at sub-county level is not available in my Department.
186 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which he has received information from the various local authorities in respect of arrears of shared ownership annuity loans; if as a result he will initiate proposals to address the situation whereby borrowers are expected to meet repayments in respect of the rental equity which are greater than those applicable to the mortgage equity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6162/12]
Under the Shared Ownership Scheme, the rent charged on the local authority's equity in a shared ownership transaction is to cover the funding costs to the Housing Finance Agency which are based on borrowings at the prevailing interest rates. Any difference between the rent and prevailing interest rate is reflected in the capital outstanding on the property, i.e. if the rent charged in any period is greater than the prevailing mortgage interest due on the local authority's share the purchase price of the outstanding equity will be reduced accordingly. My Department does not hold data from housing authorities on the number of mortgages that are in arrears, including in respect of shared ownership transactions.
187 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if it is expected that the proposed personal insolvency legislation will be available to shared ownership mortgage borrowers who, due to unemployment or other factors, are in danger of having their homes repossessed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6163/12]
The proposed personal insolvency legislation is a matter for the Minister for Justice and Equality.
188 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the total number of persons currently on local authority housing lists throughout the country; their average length of time on such lists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6164/12]
My Department does not hold information on the number of households on local authorities' waiting lists. This figure continuously fluctuates as households are allocated housing and new households apply for housing support.
Detailed information on the latest statutory assessment of housing need carried out in March 2011, including a breakdown by housing authority, is available on my Department's website —www.environ.ie or on the Housing Agency’s website at www.housing.ie. The report includes a table showing breakdown of applicants by local authority by length of time on waiting list.
189 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the total cost of remedial works in respect of illegal or unregulated landfill sites in each of the past five years to date in 2012; the likely cost in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6165/12]
My Department has provided financial support for a number of waste enforcement initiatives related to illegal or unregulated landfill sites under a European Court of Justice ruling in case ECJ C494/01 in order to give effect to the Court judgment. This has included illegal sites which were unregulated at the time of the judgment, a number of local authority owned landfills which were operating at the time of the judgement in April 2005 without a waste licence (and which have since been regulated) and also areas where offset has been provided for habitat loss or where waste has or had to be removed, as well as unregulated end of life vehicle sites. The information requested in relation to the annual breakdown of the expenditure is being compiled and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible. Future costs will be dependent of the outcome of a number of tendering processes as work is progressed.
190 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when his attention was first drawn to the need to protect groundwater from pollution from domestic septic tanks or overflows from malfunctioning or overloaded municipal or other sewage treatment plants; when the appropriate action was recommended or taken; the fine impositions in the event of failure to implement remedial work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6166/12]
In its Water Quality 2007-2009 Report, the Environmental Protection Agency noted the presence of microbial contamination arising from the entry of faecal matter to Ireland's waters and stated that one of the main sources of microbial pathogens was on-site waste water treatment systems, including septic tanks. The report states that while the proportion of monitoring points with faecal coliform detections is high, it not only reflects the impact of human activities, but also the vulnerable nature of groundwater in some parts of the country. Groundwater is a source of drinking water for many people.
The EPA's Urban Waste Water Discharges in Ireland for Population Equivalents Greater than 500 Persons: A Report for the Years 2006 and 2007 stated that at the start of 2008, waste water from 112 locations was being discharged with either no treatment or basic treatment, and in most cases was discharging to estuarine or coastal waters. However, a number of major waste water treatment plants which discharge to tidal waters came into operation during the period 2007-2009 and the level of untreated discharges is expected to decrease further as additional treatment plants come into operation in the coming years. Discharges from local authority waste water treatment plants are subject to authorisation by the Environmental Protection Agency under the Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations 2007, a copy of which are available in the Oireachtas library. A water services authority which commits an offence under these Regulations is liable on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding €5,000, or, on conviction on indictment, to a fine not exceeding €500,000.
Section 70 of the Water Services Act 2007 places a duty of care on owners to ensure that their treatment systems do not cause a risk to human health or the environment or a nuisance through odours. Offences committed under section 70 of the 2007 Act carry potential fines on summary conviction of up to €5,000 or imprisonment for up to 3 months, or both, or on conviction on indictment, fines up to €15 million or imprisonment for up to 5 years or both.
The maximum penalty for an individual who commits an offence under the Water Services (Amendment) Bill 2011, which passed all stages in the Oireachtas yesterday, is a fine of €5,000.
On my appointment as Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, I was briefed by my Department on the urgency of implementing the necessary legislation to comply with the ECJ ruling of October 2009 and the consequential fines that would be imposed on the State by failing to do so.
191 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent or scale of grant aid available to him for disbursement to community groups or local authorities throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6167/12]
A key principle underlying my Department's community programmes is to enable communities themselves to identify and address social and economic needs and problems in their own areas. There is a particular focus on supporting communities that are vulnerable, disadvantaged or under threat, and an adherence to the values of local participation.
My Department is responsible for a range of programmes to support communities. These include the:
1. Local and Community Development Programme, which tackles poverty and social exclusion in disadvantaged communities;
2. Supports for the Community and Voluntary Sector, which foster vibrant, sustainable and inclusive communities through a range of Programmes;
3. Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 which implements measures to improve the quality of life in rural areas and facilitate the diversification of the rural economy;
4. RAPID (Revitalising Areas by Planning, Investment and Development), a Government initiative which targets the most disadvantaged urban areas and provincial towns in the country;
5. Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund, which assists small scale, local, non-profit environmental projects aimed at increasing environmental awareness and developing sustainable communities; and
6. Social Inclusion Units — located in 16 Local Authorities.
Local and Community Development Programme
The objective of the Local and Community Development Programme is to tackle poverty and social exclusion through partnership and constructive engagement between Government and its agencies and people in disadvantaged communities. The Programme is managed by Pobal on behalf of my Department and delivered at a local level by the nationwide network of Local Development Companies. Funding of €55.157m has been provided under the Programme for 2012.
I am confident that the 2012 budget allocation will allow for the continuation of important supports for people in disadvantaged communities and will allow for the key, essential, front-line services delivered through the Programme to be maintained for 2012. I am also confident that the adjustment to the Programme has been structured to protect front-line services and supports at the expense of administration, overheads and ancillary costs.
Scheme to Support National Organisations in the Community and Voluntary Sector
This Scheme is to provide multi-annual funding to national organisations towards core costs associated with the provision of services. Priority is to be given under this Scheme to supporting national organisations which provide direct services to disadvantaged target groups. Under The scheme to support National Organisations in the Community and Voluntary Sector some €4m is allocated to 64 national organisations per annum for core costs (salaries and related overheads). This is a two and a half year funding scheme and will not be open for application until 2014.
Community and Voluntary Forums In line with the commitment in the White Paper Supporting Voluntary Activity funding is provided to local authorities to support the operation of the Community and Voluntary Fora established as part of the County/City Development Board process. €600,000 is also available to disburse between 34 Community and Voluntary Fora.
Seniors Alert Scheme
My Department manages the Seniors Alert Scheme which encourages and assists the community's support for older people by means of a community-based grant scheme to improve the security of people over 65 years of age. The Scheme is administered by local community and voluntary groups with the support of my Department. Grant support is available towards the purchase and installation of personal monitored alert systems (pendant alarms) and other items to improve the safety and security of the home (including monitored smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, internal emergency lighting and external security lighting).
Rural Development Programme
My Department also funds the LEADER elements (Axes 3 and 4) of the Rural Development Programme Ireland 2007-2013. LEADER funding under this Programme supports improvements to the quality of life in rural areas and the diversification and development of the rural economy. Of the total €427 million public funding available, almost €235 million will come from the European Union. The LEADER elements of the Programme are being implemented at a local level by 35 Local Action Groups throughout the country.
The measures funded and eligibility of activities under the Programme include inter alia :
Diversification into non-agricultural activities for farm families — €16.66m — eligible activities include the development of niche tourism and educational services such as arts and crafts, speciality food provision, open farms, etc.
Support for business creation and development — €48.26m — funding can be provided to promoters wishing to start a new business or expand an existing enterprise.
Encouragement of tourism activities — €45.4m — eligible activities include the maintenance of vernacular features in a way that protects the heritage of the features, e.g. disused railway lines and canal towpaths.
Basic services for the economy and rural population — €49.61m — Funding is available for the identification and provision of appropriate cultural and leisure facilities to local communities, which would not otherwise be available to them.
Village renewal and development — €54.2m — eligible activities include environmental upgrading of parks, civic areas, river walks, access to facilities and amenities and farmers markets.
Conservation and upgrading of the rural heritage — €53.85m — funding is available for actions including alternative or renewable energy actions addressing suitability of new technologies to meet community energy needs, environmental initiatives aimed at waste reduction, actions to protect and restore the amenity value of local watercourses and high value nature areas, etc.
Training and information on adapted and new skills — €29.45m — funding is available for training and the development of training facilities in rural areas (fixed or mobile).
Implementing co-operation projects — €10.7m — provides for transnational and inter-territorial actions, which would be eligible under the measures detailed above.
Skills acquisition and animation — €34.63m
Running Costs of Local Action Groups — €84.845m
RAPID
RAPID (Revitalising Areas by Planning, Investment and Development) is a Government initiative which targets the most disadvantaged urban areas and provincial towns in the country. The Programme aims to ensure that priority attention is given to tackling the spatial concentration of poverty and social exclusion in RAPID areas nationally. The City/County Development Boards monitor the programme in each county.
In 2011, the Department provided for 50% of the salary costs of the 46 RAPID Co-ordinator positions nationally, with 50% being funded by the local authority in each case.
The Capital budget allocation for 2012 for RAPID is fully committed to existing projects.
Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund
My Department also provides funding (some €395,000 in 2011) through the Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund to assist small scale, local, non-profit environmental projects aimed at increasing environmental awareness and developing sustainable communities. Community groups can apply for funding for a variety of environmental projects including those relating to recycling, composting or reusing waste. Application for funding is made to local authorities who match the funding provided by the Department.
Social Inclusion Units
My Department provides funding for 50% of the salary cost of Social Inclusion Units currently located in 16 local authorities throughout the country. A funding allocation of €720,000 has been made available for 2012. The main role of the units is to support the local authorities' involvement in tackling social exclusion across a range of their activities in a cohesive and focused manner.
192 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which he expects to be in a position to maintain the fire service, part-time and full-time, throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6169/12]
The provision of a fire service in its functional area, including the establishment and maintenance of a fire brigade, the assessment of fire cover needs, the provision of a premises and the making of such other provisions as it considers necessary or desirable, is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under the provisions of the Fire Services Act 1981 and 2003.
My Department supports fire authorities through the setting of general policy, the provision of training support, the issue of guidance on operational and other related matters, and through the provision of capital funding. The national blueprint for further developing and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of fire services is set out in the Irish Fire Services National Development Framework 2010-2015, which is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie. The Framework sets out policies and key actions in the areas of: Fire Services Role in Society; National Processes and Standards; Staff Learning and Development; Quality Assurance Systems and Reporting Performance; and Service Infrastructure and Legislative Support.
Implementation of the Framework is being managed through my Department's National Directorate working closely with its Management Board and the local authorities who provide the services.
193 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the total number of housing units, with particular reference to family homes, built directly or acquired by the various local authorities for allocation to tenants in each of the past five years and to date in 2012; the number of such houses likely to be provided on an annual basis over the next four years; the extent to which this is likely to meet the requirement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6170/12]
Data on local authority house completions and acquisitions are available on my Department's website, www.environ.ie, and the most recent data published in this regard relate to 2010.
Housing authorities were asked by my Department to submit their proposals for consideration for funding under the Social Housing Investment Programme for the next three years by the end of January. Once the proposals submitted have been assessed, I will be in a position to estimate the number of new social units to be built over the period. I hope to be in a position to make announcements in relation to budgets or allocations for the various housing supply programmes in early March.
In light of the reduction in the social housing capital budget since 2008, it is not possible to return to very large capital funded construction programmes by local authorities. Nevertheless, we are committed to responding more quickly and on a larger scale to social housing support needs through a variety of mechanisms including through increased provision of social housing. Delivery of social housing will be significantly facilitated through more flexible funding models such as RAS and leasing, but the Government is also committed to developing other funding mechanisms that will increase the supply of permanent new social housing.
194 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which air pollution levels are recorded continuously throughout the country, either directly by his Department or by the Health Service Executive on an agency basis for his Department; the most commonly detected air pollutants; the most serious levels of such pollutants and their locations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6171/12]
Ambient air quality monitoring and assessment in Ireland is carried out in accordance with the requirements of Directive 2008/50/EC on ambient air quality and cleaner air for Europe, also known as the CAFE Directive. The CAFE Directive consolidated and replaced the earlier Air Quality Framework Directive and first three so-called "daughter" directives, and has been transposed into national legislation by the Air Quality Standards Regulations 2011. The Directive requires that the country is divided into zones for the purposes of the assessment and management of air quality and also sets limit values for the following pollutants:
Sulphur Dioxide (SO2),
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx),
Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5),
Lead,
Benzene,
Carbon Monoxide (CO), and
Ground-Level Ozone.
In addition, Directive 2004/107/EC, the fourth ‘daughter' directive under the Air Quality Framework Directive, which was not consolidated within the CAFE Directive, remains in effect. This Directive has been transposed into national legislation by the Arsenic, Cadmium, Mercury, Nickel and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Ambient Air Regulations 2009, which specify further monitoring requirements as well as limit or target values for arsenic, cadmium, mercury, nickel and polycyclic hydrocarbons.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has responsibility for the monitoring of Irish air quality. The EPA continually monitors a range of atmospheric pollutants via a network of air quality monitoring stations located around the country, and reports the results of the air quality monitoring on its website: http://www.epa.ie/what we do/monitoring/air/data/. My Department keeps these data under ongoing review to identify any significant trends which might emerge and also meets periodically with the EPA on air quality issues.
The EPA also publishes a comprehensive annual report on air quality, the most recent of which, Air Quality in Ireland 2010 — Key Indicators of Ambient Air Quality, was published in September 2010. The report provides an overview of ambient air quality trends in Ireland in 2010 based on data from a network of 28 monitoring stations. In addition, there were a further 11 monitoring stations measuring black smoke operated by local authorities during 2010. The Report confirmed that air quality in Ireland continues to be and remains among the best in Europe. In 2010, measured values for all of the above-mentioned pollutants were below the limit and target values set out in the CAFE Directive and the Fourth Daughter Directive.
The Report further noted that nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels and particulates of nitrogen dioxide have remained relatively static since 2002. While NO2 levels are low in rural areas, they remain elevated at certain locations in Dublin and Cork, albeit below the 2010 limit value. As road traffic is the primary source of NO2, elevated levels of NO2 are most notable at road traffic influenced sites. Technological advances set down by EU emission standards may in future lead to lower NO2 emissions from individual cars but this technology will take time to impact on current levels. NO2 levels can also be reduced through reducing travel demand by car, emphasising the importance of more sustainable modes of transport such as cycling, walking and public transport.
Domestic solid fuel use is the other main source of particulate matter and specifically impacts air quality in areas where the sale of bituminous coal is permitted. As a result, levels of particulate matter in smaller towns are similar or higher than those in cities, where sale of bituminous (or "smoky") coal is banned. As such, the choice households make in domestic heating fuel can have a major impact on local air quality. My Department meets regularly with the EPA and key local authorities to ensure the ongoing roll-out and effective enforcement of the smoky coal ban.
195 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent, if any, to which he will be in a position to support the funding of local group water schemes by the various local authorities throughout the country on a county basis over the next 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6172/12]
My Department provides funding towards group water schemes by way of annual block grant allocations to local authorities under the Department's Rural Water Programme.
Responsibility for the administration of this programme has been devolved to local authorities since 1997. The selection and approval of individual group scheme proposals for funding and advancement under the programme, within the overall priorities set by my Department and subject to the block grant allocation provided, is therefore a matter for the water services authorities.
The 2012 allocation for the Rural Water Programme is €40 million. My Department is currently considering the proposals received from local authorities towards the end of last month for funding under the Programme in 2012. Decisions on the funding to be provided to the local authorities, having regard to the proposals submitted, will be made as soon as possible.
196 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which adequate funds are available to the local authorities to meet the requirements arising from disabled persons’ grant applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6173/12]
My Department's involvement with the Housing Adaptation Grant Schemes for Older People and People with a Disability relates primarily to the recoupment of a proportion of local authority expenditure on the payment of individual grants. The grant schemes, introduced in November 2007, are funded by 80% recoupment available from my Department together with a 20% contribution from the resources of the local authority.
In order to determine the capital allocations for 2012, my Department requested local authorities to submit details of their funding requirements under the grant schemes by 20 January, 2012. The information received is being examined at present with a view to determining this year's capital allocations to local authorities. I intend to announce details of the allocations as soon as possible after the publication of the 2012 Revised Estimates for Public Services.
While a number of authorities have advised my Department of constraints on their Revenue budgets, local authorities collectively have indicated that €18.649m is being made available in 2012. In order to ease the pressure on Revenue budgets, my Department advised local authorities that Internal Capital Receipts from the sale of local authority houses and properties could be used to augment the available revenue funds.
198 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will issue a breakdown of the remuneration packages in place for chief executive officers of all semi-state companies as of 27 January 2011, specifying in detail any bonus, pension, expenses or other arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6425/12]
The tables outline the remuneration for Chief Executive Officers/equivalents in respect of State Agencies/Bodies under the aegis of my Department as sanctioned by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
Chief Executive Officers/equivalents, may submit claims in respect of travel and subsistence expenses, incurred as part of their official duties, in accordance with the appropriate travel and subsistence guidelines.
The chief executive officers/equivalents in agencies/bodies under the aegis of my Department do not receive bonus payments.
The pension entitlements of chief executive officers/equivalents are set out in each agency pension scheme, which is subject to prior approval by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
In October 2011, I announced further measures in relation to my Department's agency rationalisation programme with the overall number of agencies being reduced from 21 to 12.
Overall, estimated savings in the order of €1.9 million have been achieved to date in the agency rationalisation process and I anticipate that this should rise significantly. Agency staff numbers are targeted to fall to 712 by 2015 as compared to 951 at the end of 2008 — a reduction of 239 (25%).
|
Agency / Body |
Post |
Salary at 1 January 2012 |
|
An Bord Pleanála** |
CEO |
€196,285 |
|
An Chomhairle Leabharlanna |
Director |
€108,781 |
|
Dublin Docklands Development Authority |
CEO |
Position currently vacant |
|
Environmental Protection Agency |
Director General |
€156,240 |
|
Housing Finance Agency |
CEO |
€119,373 |
|
Irish Water Safety |
CEO |
€67,913 to €84,296 |
|
Limerick Regeneration Agencies |
CEO |
€128,343 |
|
Local Government Management Agency |
CEO |
€138,655 |
|
Interim Housing and Sustainable Communities Agencies |
CEO |
€119,373 |
|
National Building Agency |
CEO |
€119,373 |
|
Private Residential Tenancies Board |
Director |
€80,051 to €98,424 |
|
Radiological Protection Institute |
CEO |
€138,655 |
|
Western Development Commission |
Acting CEO |
See acting rate below. |
|
Agency / Body |
Post |
Salary at 1 January 2012 |
|
An Bord Pleanála** |
CEO |
€206,616 |
|
An Chomhairle Leabharlanna |
Director |
N/A |
|
Dublin Docklands Development Authority |
CEO |
Position currently vacant |
|
Environmental Protection Agency |
Director General |
€164,464 |
|
Housing Finance Agency |
CEO |
€125,655 |
|
Irish Water Safety |
CEO |
€71,359 to €88,598 |
|
Limerick Regeneration Agencies |
CEO |
€135,097 |
|
Local Government Management Agency |
CEO |
€153,855 |
|
Interim Housing and Sustainable Communities Agencies |
CEO |
€125,655 |
|
National Building Agency |
CEO |
€125,655 |
|
Private Residential Tenancies Board |
Director |
€84,132 to €103,472 |
|
Radiological Protection Institute |
CEO |
€145,952 |
|
Western Development Commission |
Acting CEO |
€84,132 |
* The Personal Pension Contribution (PPC) rate is only applicable where personal pension contributions to an approved scheme are being made.
** The rate of remuneration of the Chief Executive of An Bord Pleanála will be adjusted downwards in line with Government Decision Number S180/20/10/133.
199 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the name of each prison visiting committee; the membership of same; the number of committees with fewer than six persons in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5942/12]
There are currently fourteen Prison Visiting Committees for each institution in the State. With the exception of Castlerea, Cloverhill and Portlaoise Prisons, all have currently less than six members.
I have previously stated my intention 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. As part of these plans, it is intended to expand the Inspector of Prison's role which I believe will greatly enhance his independent oversight of the prison system.
Under these proposed new arrangements, Visiting Committees will report regularly to the Inspector of Prisons on issues they may wish to bring to his attention. Any urgent or major issue may be reported to the Inspector at any time. Each Visiting Committee will comprise no more than six members, and only suitable people with appropriate qualifications and a genuine interest in prison issues will be appointed.
My Department has been examining how it can ensure this is achieved and I am pleased to say that work is now almost complete. I am presently in the process of making appointments and within the next few days will be writing to the people concerned informing them of their appointment. I hope the Deputy will understand that I am not in a position at this time to make a public announcement prior to those appointed to the Committee being informed of their appointments. As soon as this is done, I will ensure that the information requested is immediately provided to him.
200 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of students here on stamp 2 visas for five years or more; if he will consider extending the option of long-term residency to these persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5943/12]
The most recently available figures (31 December 2011) indicate that approximately 5600 non-EEA students were registered with the Garda National Immigration Bureau on that date having arrived in Ireland since before 1 January 2007.
The ‘New Immigration Regime for Full Time Non-EEA Students' was published in September 2010 and has been in operation since 1 January 2011. It introduced maximum periods for residence in the State for non-EEA nationals on a student permission. Students pursuing degree programmes may reside for a maximum period of seven years and students on language or non-degree programmes may reside for a maximum of three years. It is, of course, possible for a language and non-degree programme student to transfer to the degree programme stream. However, the maximum period any foreign national may reside in the State on a student permission is seven years.
At the commencement of the New Regime, a range of transitional arrangements where implemented for those students who had been resident in Ireland in excess of seven years and for those students on language or non-degree programmes who had been resident for more than three years—
All students were permitted to complete any course they had commenced prior to the introduction of the new rules.
Language and non-degree programme students who had sufficient time to undertake and complete a degree programme have been permitted to do so.
Students who finish an honours degree course (or higher) are permitted to remain in Ireland for a further year during which they can work, engage in internship or, if they wish to stay for a longer period, seek an employment permit,
As a special concession "timed-out" students were entitled to a six month extension of their immigration permission to allow those students to address their immigration status in the State. During this six month concession period, "timed out students" were permitted to work full time and to apply for an employment permit or green card without having to return to their country of origin.
The availability of this six month concession expired on 30 September 2011. However, a further final 3 month extension is now available to relevant students, whose permission expires between 1 January and 31 March 2011 in order to permit them to finalise their status in the State.
While I am keeping the situation under review, I am satisfied that significant measures have been put in place to ensure that non-EEA students resident in Ireland prior to 1 January 2011 have been treated fairly with the introduction of the new arrangements. The transitional measures provide ample opportunity for students to seek an alternative permission to be in the State.
201 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will ensure that a person (details supplied) in County Leitrim receives a letter from him stating the updated position on their residency status here as a matter of urgency in order that they may in turn provide this to the Department of Education and Skills in order to continue with their third level studies. [5979/12]
The person concerned is the sibling of an Irish born child of non-EEA parents born in the State prior to 1 January, 2005. The person concerned was granted permission to remain on stamp 4 conditions, on the basis of family dependency, by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) on 24 February, 2007. The person's current permission to remain is valid until 29 September, 2012. I have asked my officials in the INIS to write to the person concerned regarding her current residency status.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the 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 the INIS is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
202 Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if a barring order, safety order or protection order made in the context of family law proceedings represents grounds for rejecting an immigrant’s Irish naturalisation application. [6011/12]
The granting of Irish Citizenship through naturalisation is a privilege and an honour and not an entitlement. The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended, provides that the Minister may, in his absolute discretion, grant an application for a certificate of naturalisation provided certain statutory conditions are fulfilled. One such condition is that I must be satisfied that the applicant is of good character. It would be inappropriate for me to indicate what might or might not specifically constitute good character in this context as to do so could be interpreted as a fettering of the absolute discretion given to the Minister in the Act. I can say, however, that I exercise my discretion based on an evaluation of the overall case presented to me.
203 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will clarify his position regarding the location of the Garda water unit; if he will confirm that it is to be retained at its Athlone base, County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6079/12]
In accordance with the provisions of the Garda Síochána Act 2005, it is for the Garda Commissioner to determine the manner in which members of An Garda Síochána, including specialist units such as the Garda Water Unit, are deployed and located throughout the State. I have no role in relation to these matters. I am advised by the Garda authorities that the allocation of specialist units is subject to continual review to ensure that the best possible Garda service is provided to the public. In particular, the situation is monitored in the light of crime trends, policing strategies and other operational requirements.
204 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will update Dáil Éireann on the progress on the Garda review of the case of the murder of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6080/12]
As I have previously informed the Deputy, following the publication of an article concerning this case in October 2010, representations were made requesting an investigation of the matters raised in it. The Commissioner arranged for a Detective Superintendent to meet the author of the article and the persons making the representations to make an assessment whether there was any evidence not available to the original investigation team and further investigation was required in this case. As a result, a number of lines of inquiry were identified and have or are being pursued. I understand that, arising from this, a report will be prepared for the Garda Commissioner shortly.
205 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding anti-social activity at a location (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [6103/12]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the area referred to is within the Clontarf Garda Sub-District. Local Garda management is aware of difficulties being experienced by residents concerning the location in question. I am further informed that a meeting, attended by the local Community Garda and local representatives, was held in Autumn, 2011 to discuss matters regarding the location, including issues relating to its ownership. Arising from that meeting, a number of issues identified have been brought to the attention of the local authority. I am also advised that a member of the local Community Policing Unit is allocated specifically to the area concerned and liaises closely with local residents and community group to address any issues raised. The Community Garda has engaged with residents and local representatives regarding concerns relating to the location referred to. The area is the subject of regular patrols by uniform and plain clothes personnel, including the Community Policing Unit, Garda Bike Unit and local Detective and Drug Units, supplemented as required by the Divisional Crime Task Force and Traffic Corps personnel.
Local Garda management monitor these patrols and are satisfied that current structures in place meet the requirements of the delivery of an effective and efficient policing service to the residents concerned. Community policing is a central feature and core value of policing policy and current policing strategies are predicated on the prevention of crime, public order offences and anti-social behaviour. The situation will be kept under review by Garda management.
206 Deputy Heather Humphreys asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when a Garda clearance certificate will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6137/12]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the application was processed and returned to the Registered Organisation concerned on 31 January 2012.
207 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he envisages that solicitors would meet the eligibility criteria to qualify as personal insolvency trustees as set out in the personal insolvency Bill 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6139/12]
The Personal Insolvency Bill, the Heads of which I published on 25 January 2012, introduces a number of new non-judicial debt settlement systems. Two of those systems — Debt Settlement Arrangement and Personal Insolvency Arrangement — require the involvement of a personal insolvency trustee as the intermediary between the debtor and creditors. The matter of the eligibility criteria, licensing and regulation of personal insolvency trustees is a matter that remains to be determined. It is likely that the Central Bank will play the lead role in this regard. I would see no reason why a solicitor, or any other person, should not be in a position to seek to meet the eligibility criteria.
208 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the current and likely position regarding residency or family reunification in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6159/12]
The person concerned has been granted Leave to Remain in the State which is valid to 29 March 2012. This decision was conveyed in writing to the person concerned by letter dated 29 March 2010. The person concerned is required to apply in writing for the renewal of this permission. As my Department's records show no evidence of such a renewal application having been made to date, it is recommended that the person concerned should do so without further delay. The Deputy might wish to note that the current position in the State of the person concerned is not such as would enable him to make an application for family reunification. Access to family reunification is confined to persons recognised as refugees or with subsidiary protection status.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the 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 the INIS is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
209 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6160/12]
I am informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that the person referred to by the Deputy has no application pending for residency. The person concerned is the subject of a Deportation Order, signed on 5 November 2010, following a comprehensive and thorough examination of her asylum claim and her application for subsidiary protection, and a detailed examination of the representations she submitted for consideration under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended).
The effect of the Deportation Order is that the person concerned must leave the State and remain thereafter out of the State. The enforcement of the Deportation Order is an operational matter for the Garda National Immigration Bureau.
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.
210 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if an upgrade of stamp 3 to stamp 4 is available in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6161/12]
I am informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that no application has been received from this person for the purposes set out in the Deputy's question. The person concerned must make an application to the General Immigration Section of INIS to have their case considered.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the 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 the INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.
211 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Defence about the policy of paying Border duty allowance to members of the Defence Forces; the number of members who will be allowed to retain this allowance once transferred from Cavan to Athlone and the rationale behind this; the reason members transferring from Cavan to Dublin will not be allowed to retain this allowance when others will; if he intends to compensate those members incurring large travel costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5982/12]
The retention of Border Duty Allowance in the circumstances outlined by the Deputy are the subject of negotiations between the Department and PDFORRA under the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme (C&A Scheme) for members of the Permanent Defence Force. The Deputy will appreciate that as discussions under the C&A scheme are confidential to the parties involved it would be inappropriate for me to comment further on the matter at this time. In relation to the travel cost issue, appropriate change of station allowances are available to Permanent Defence Force Members who move location. These allowances will be paid to eligible PDF personnel in accordance with criteria laid down in Defence Force Regulations.
212 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Defence if he will issue a breakdown of the remuneration packages in place for chief executive officers of all semi-State companies here as of 27 January 2011, specifying in detail any bonus, pension, expenses or other arrangements and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6424/12]
The agencies associated with this Department are the Civil Defence Board, the Army Pensions Board and the Board of Coiste an Asgard. The Chief Executive Officer of the Civil Defence Board is a serving civil servant at Principal Officer grade. The arrangements that apply to the CEO in respect of pension and expenses are the same as for all Civil Service staff. No employee of any of the agencies under the auspices of this Department has received a bonus payment in 2011. Neither the Army Pensions Board nor the Board of Coiste an Asgard has a Chief Executive Officer.
213 Deputy Paul J. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the grazing of horses on a land parcel will affect the agri-environment options scheme application of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5939/12]
The person named was approved for participation in the Agri-Environment Options Scheme with effect from 1 September 2010 and has received full payment in respect of 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, had to be completed before any payment can issue. These checks are currently being carried out in respect of the 2011 Scheme year and once successfully completed payment will issue. The specific query appears to relate to the traditional hay meadow measure which is part of the plan of the person named. To ensure compliance with scheme terms and conditions on the particular parcel of land, it is necessary to follow traditional grazing practices. Accordingly it may not be grazed from 1 April until after the hay is cut each year.
214 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the reason the single farm payment has not issued to persons (details supplied) in County Waterford; and when payment will issue. [5940/12]
The above named applicants under the 2011 Single Payment Scheme received full advance and balancing payments on 17 October and 1 December 2011 in respect of the entitlements held by them at that time. These applicants received an additional allocation of entitlements on 15 December requiring additional processing of their application. When processing was completed a further balancing payment was generated in respect of these entitlements on 26th January 2012.
215 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will consider providing funding for the establishment of sheep discussion groups. [5956/12]
There has been significant public investment in the sheep sector in recent years. Key supports for this sector include €7 million from the 2009 Single Farm Payment National Reserve under the Uplands Sheep Payment Scheme and €54 million for the three-year Grassland Sheep Scheme which commenced in 2010. The grassland Sheep Scheme is proving to be a valuable support mechanism in terms of improving income and confidence in the sector. The sheep fencing/mobile handling equipment scheme, which is one of five Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Schemes (TAMS) was re-opened to applications last December and the first tranche will close on 29 February this year. This Scheme will enable many farmers in the sheep sector to complete the necessary investment works in order to maintain competitiveness and introduce increased efficiencies on their farm and so secure the future of their enterprises. All of the supports I have outlined have provided a significant incentive to farmers to maintain their production levels, which is vital for the future of a viable sheep industry in Ireland. In addition, Bord Bia will also spend over €1.1 million this year on the promotion of sheep and lamb at home and abroad and Teagasc has allocated almost €1.5 million for sheep research for 2011.
On the question of providing funding towards the establishment of sheep discussion groups, the realities of the public finances mean that difficult choices have to be made when it comes to allocating scarce Exchequer resources. In common with all other Ministers, I am faced with a number of financial challenges at present and my approach to determining spending priorities is always informed by the need to ensure that scarce public resources are utilised to best effect to facilitate the development of the agri-food industry as a whole, taking into account all the sectors it entails. While unfortunately funding is not available at present for sheep discussion groups, I continue to urge all sheep farmers to avail of the extremely valuable information emerging from Teagasc and Sheep Ireland and to participate where possible in discussion groups or other collaborative initiatives which can assist farmers in making their enterprises more efficient and in improving margins.
216 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will outline on a county basis the number of farmers who have received payments for the 2010 agri-environment option scheme; the number of claimants who are outstanding; when the outstanding payments will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5957/12]
The table below details (i) the number of applicants who have received a payment in respect of their 2010 agri environment options scheme and (ii) the number of farmers who have yet to receive payment on a county by county basis. To summarise a total of 6030 applicants have received payments for the 2010 AEOS (detailed on a county by county basis in the following table) and a further 528 applicants were have either withdrawn or been rejected from the scheme following initial approval into the scheme (not available on a county by county basis).
|
County |
Total Applications Paid |
Total Outstanding for County |
|
Carlow |
85 |
21 |
|
Cavan |
186 |
73 |
|
Clare |
314 |
86 |
|
Cork |
364 |
210 |
|
Donegal |
539 |
35 |
|
Dublin |
11 |
8 |
|
Galway |
639 |
282 |
|
Kerry |
251 |
149 |
|
Kildare |
63 |
26 |
|
Kilkenny |
227 |
73 |
|
Laois |
137 |
63 |
|
Leitrim |
338 |
84 |
|
Limerick |
212 |
100 |
|
Longford |
82 |
42 |
|
Louth |
44 |
25 |
|
Mayo |
671 |
347 |
|
Meath |
145 |
53 |
|
Monaghan |
209 |
45 |
|
Offaly |
108 |
49 |
|
Roscommon |
331 |
111 |
|
Sligo |
250 |
74 |
|
Tipperary |
307 |
142 |
|
Waterford |
105 |
59 |
|
Westmeath |
213 |
44 |
|
Wexford |
123 |
99 |
|
Wicklow |
76 |
45 |
|
Total |
6,030 |
2,345 |
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. These checks are ongoing and my Department is dealing with applications on which queries and issues arose in the course of this administrative checking process. Further payments are issuing on an ongoing basis as these queries are resolved.
217 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the new terms and conditions for the disadvantaged areas scheme 2012. [5958/12]
It is widely recognised that the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme is a very important one for this country, as the total area designated as disadvantaged is almost 75% of Ireland's total land area. From an economic perspective, the Scheme is particularly significant, contributing to the support of in excess of 100,000 Irish farm families, whose ability to farm is restricted by the physical environment and, in particular, the impact of the prevailing wet cold climatic conditions. The Scheme, which is co-funded by the EU, is an integral part of Ireland's Rural Development Plan, 2007/2013, and as such, any proposed change to Scheme criteria requires the agreement of the EU Commission. In this regard, therefore, the changes announced in the context of the recent Budget have been submitted to Brussels; the Commission's response is expected shortly.
The budgeted expenditure under the 2012 Scheme will be reduced from €220 million to €190 million and, in order to achieve the €30 million saving in expenditure, it is proposed to introduce specified changes to the Scheme eligibility criteria for 2012. This will be achieved by making technical adjustments to the Scheme criteria to ensure that the aid payment is focused on farmers, whose farming enterprises are situated exclusively in Less Favoured Areas and who are making a significant contribution to achieving the objectives of the Scheme.
The savings will be achieved without the need to reduce the existing rates of aid and, in addition, there will also be no reduction in the maximum area payable — 34 hectares. The proposed changes are designed to ensure that the payments under the Scheme are focused on those farmers who (i) are farming exclusively in Disadvantaged Areas, (ii) make a significant contribution to the maintenance of a viable rural community and (iii) contribute to the enhancement of the environment.
It is proposed that eligible applicants in 2012 must have met (a) a minimum stocking density of 0.3 livestock units per hectare in 2011 (equivalent to 2 ewes per hectare) and (b) 0.15 livestock units per hectare in 2012. However, in recognition of the environmental objectives of the Scheme, specific provisions will be made for those farmers, who had a stocking density less than 0.3 lu/ha in 2011, where that lower stocking density was as a result of adherence to lower stocking by agri-environmental measure. If the proposals are accepted, all applicants, whose stocking density was below 0.3 lu/ha in 2011, will be written to formally and given the opportunity to apply for a derogation on the grounds that his or her participation in one of the above measures resulted in the lower stocking density. The principles of force majeure/exceptional circumstances will also be provided for in the process. It is also intended that provision will be made for new entrants to farming.
It is proposed to continue with the minimum stocking density of 0.15 lu/ha in respect of 2012. With a view to focusing the aid to those farmers, who make the most significant contribution to the rural economy and to the environment in general, it is proposed that the calculation of the stocking density will be based on (a) a retention period of 6 months where the stocking density on the holding has to be equal to or greater than 0.15 lu/ha and (b) the stocking density calculated over the twelve months of the scheme-year.
With the intention of targeting those farmers who are farming exclusively in Disadvantaged Areas, it is proposed that digressive payments will apply for farmers whose holdings consist of land situated in both Disadvantaged Areas and non-Disadvantaged Areas.
Any analysis of the Scheme must take into account the impact of the various enterprises on the local economy. As is clearly evident, the main benefits arise from (i) beef rearing, (ii) dairying and (iii) sheep breeding enterprises. There are an increasing number of applicants under the Scheme, who have discontinued livestock (cattle or sheep) farming, but who continue to benefit from aid under the Scheme by grazing some horses on their land. It is proposed that horses will no longer be eligible for the stocking density calculation on the basis that these applicants' contribution to the rural economy is minimal. However, equine breeding enterprises will continue to be eligible on the basis of the contribution they make to the local economy.
It is also proposed to exclude land situated more than 80 kilometres from a farmer's holding from aid under the Scheme. This exclusion will be confined to applicants, whose main holding is situated in a non-Disadvantaged Area, and who declares land situated more than 80 kilometres from the main holding. It is contended that the local impact of the farming of those lands situated in the Disadvantaged Areas is marginal.
218 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will consider increasing quota for herring and mackerel fishing to the Inver traditional inshore fishermen, County Donegal, who could then get these boats regulated and legalised on a seasonal basis. [5959/12]
The policy in relation to the distribution of mackerel in the polyvalent sector was reviewed and finalised in early 2010 and included a detailed public consultation process. Following that process, a fishery for Mackerel for small fishing vessels was established by the Minister whereby an amount of mackerel is available to polyvalent vessels under 18m in length. The quantity of mackerel is decided following consultation with industry representatives. The limit is 2 tonnes per month for the month of February. This amount may be increased and was set at 4 tonnes for the spring and most of the summer during 2011. In relation to herring, last year I asked the fishing industry representatives to make proposals on the future management arrangements for all Irish herring fisheries. In response to my notification of the review, a number of proposals were received from industry including the Inver traditional fishermen's group. Taking account of the diverse views expressed, I have published a proposed policy and sought the views of industry on the proposal. I am meeting Industry representatives and those who made submissions next Monday 6 February to hear directly views on the draft proposals circulated. Before making a final decision on the management arrangements for the 2012 herring fisheries, I will review all submissions made and the views expressed at the meeting.
Quota for herring and mackerel is only available, subject to management arrangements in place, to Irish licensed and registered fishing vessels. The registration and licensing of sea fishing vessels is governed by EU Regulation and the function is administered independently of the Minister by the Registrar of Sea Fishing Boats.
219 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will introduce new legislation to update the 1875 by-law prohibiting the practice of trawling within the confines of Inver Bay, County Donegal. [5960/12]
I understand that Fisheries Bye-Law No. 7 of 16 February 1857 remains in force in relation to Inver bay. Bye-Law No. 7 is the responsibility of the Minister for Communications, Energy and natural Resources. While Bye-Law No. 7 prohibits trawling within Inver Bay within a straight line from the Bian Rock to Doorin Point it is effectively unenforceable given the very low level of penalty involved.
Any vessel trawling within this area is breaching the Bye Law. I am aware that local pot fishermen are reported on occasion to have had their gear towed away by trawlers operating in the Bay. In my view, the loss of or damage to gear caused by these trawlers is most effectively dealt with as a civil matter between the parties involved. In essence the issue arising here is a matter of access to inshore waters by larger fishing vessels using particular types of fishing gear and if any changes to the current arrangements were to be considered this would have to be examined on a national basis.
220 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a reply will issue to representations this Deputy made to him on behalf of a person (details supplied). [5978/12]
The person named has been informed in writing that he was approved for participation in the 2011 Agri-Environment Options Scheme with effect from 1 September 2011. Under the EU Regulations governing the Scheme and other area-based payment schemes, a comprehensive administrative check of all applications, including cross-checks with the Land Parcel Identification System, must be completed before any payment can issue. This process is under way with a view to commencing payments as soon as possible. In the event of any queries arising from these checks in individual cases, including the person named, my Department will be in direct contact with the applications to have them resolved.
221 Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the total payments to farmers to date in respect of REP scheme and agri-environment options scheme for counties Leitrim and Sligo separately; if he will provide a breakdown of the various percentages regarding applications and moneys paid to date. [5985/12]
REPS 4 and AEOS are both measures under the current 2007-13 Rural Development Programme and accordingly are subject to EU Regulation which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before any payments can issue. These checks have now been completed and the majority of outstanding payments have issues which need to be examined or resolved and these are being dealt with on an ongoing basis by my officials.
|
County |
Amount Paid REPS 4 2011 |
Percentage Applicants Paid |
Amount Paid AEOS I2010 |
Percentage Applicants Paid 2010 |
Amount Paid AEOS I 2011 |
Percentage Applicants Paid 2011 |
|
Sligo |
4,016,640 |
82 |
177,794 |
77 |
402,172 |
40 |
|
Leitrim |
7,027,707 |
86 |
293,027 |
80 |
497,822 |
37 |
222 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the remaining 25% REP scheme 4 payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry. [6002/12]
The person named commenced REPS 4 in May 2008 and received payments for the first three years of their contract. REPS 4 is a measure under the current 2007-13 Rural Development Programme and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before any payments can issue. 75% of the Year 4 payment issued on 11 January 2012 for the amount of €3395.57 and the remaining 25% balancing payment for Year 4 issued on 16 January 2012 for the amount of €1131.86.
223 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of farmers in County Kerry who have not yet received their 2011 single farm payments; the number who have been paid; the total amount owed; the total amount paid; when the balance will be paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6044/12]
224 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of farmers in County Kerry who have not yet received their 2011 disadvantaged area aid payments; the number who have been paid; the total amount owed; the total amount paid; when the balance will be paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6045/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 223 and 224 together.
The situation under the Single Payment Scheme nationally is that the vast majority of applicants have received their payment. In respect of applicants from County Kerry, the position is as set out in the following tabular statement:
|
County |
Applications |
Number Paid |
To be paid |
Amount paid |
|
Kerry |
7,575 |
7,544 |
31 |
€59,024,761 |
There are outstanding errors on the applications of the 31 farmers who have yet to be paid; such error cases continue to be cleared on an ongoing basis, as soon as satisfactory responses are received from the applicants concerned.
There is a similar situation in respect of the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme where payments amounting to €18.6 million have been made to 7,600 farmers. There are 268 outstanding cases but many of these will not be eligible for payment as they will not meet the stocking density minimum requirement of 0.15 livestock units per hectare. Details as follows:
|
County |
Applications |
Number Paid |
Not yet paid |
Amount Paid |
|
Kerry |
7,868 |
7,600 |
268 |
€18,601,146 |
Again, error cases continue to be cleared on an ongoing basis, as soon as satisfactory responses are received from the applicants concerned.
225 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of farmers in County Kerry who have not yet received their 2011 REP scheme payments; the number who have been paid; the total amount owed; the total amount paid; when the balance will be paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6046/12]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current 2007-13 Rural Development Programme and accordingly is subject to EU Regulation which requires detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before any payments can issue.
A total of 1,352 REPS 4 participants in Kerry have already been paid an amount totalling €9,110,977. 689 remain unpaid and of these 109 have been confirmed for payment and will receive their payment very shortly, while the remaining 580 will be resolved on an ongoing basis as queries are resolved. The estimated balance to be paid is approximately €4.3million.
226 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the average payments per capita to farm households in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6060/12]
The table shows the total payments made by my Department in each of the four years in question. These amounts include direct payments to farmers as well as capital and other grants and both EU and Exchequer funded payments.
|
Year |
Overall Payments |
|
2008 |
€2,630,230,735 |
|
2009 |
€2,331,049,567 |
|
2010 |
€2,137,187,273 |
|
2011 |
€2,028,867,145 |
Payments issue to up to 130,000 scheme participants as in the case of the Single Payment Scheme; Average payments per capita to farm household are not available based on this data as the number of participants varies substantially across schemes.
Teagasc's National Farm Survey provides information on farm incomes, including direct payments, based on a representative sample of farms. The National Farm Survey shows the following average total direct payments (excluding capital grants) for all farms as follows:
|
Year |
€ |
|
2008 |
€17,467 |
|
2009 |
€17,347 |
|
2010 |
€17,354 |
The National Farm Survey 2011 will be published later this year.
227 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a REP scheme 4 payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6102/12]
The person named commenced REPS in June 2008 and received payments for the first three years of their contract.
REPS 4 is a measure under the current 2007-13 Rural Development Programme and is subject to EU Regulation which requires detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before any payments can issue. During the course of the administrative check an area discrepancy was discovered between the Single Payment Scheme application for 2011 and the REPS 4 Agri-environmental Plan of the person named. This issue has now been resolved and I expect payment to issue to the person named shortly.
228 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the disadvantaged areas scheme will be made available to new entrants in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6116/12]
It is widely recognised that the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme is a very important one for this country, as the total area designated as disadvantaged is almost 75% of Ireland's total land area. From an economic perspective, the Scheme is particularly significant, contributing to the support of in excess of 100,000 Irish farm families, whose ability to farm is restricted by the physical environment and, in particular, the impact of the prevailing wet cold climatic conditions. The Scheme, which is co-funded by the EU, is an integral part of Ireland's Rural Development Plan, 2007/2013, and as such, any proposed change to Scheme criteria requires the agreement of the EU Commission. In this regard, therefore, the changes announced in the context of the recent Budget have been submitted to Brussels; the Commission's response is expected shortly.
The budgeted expenditure under the 2012 Scheme will be reduced from €220 million to €190 million and, in order to achieve the €30 million saving in expenditure, it is proposed to introduce specified changes to the Scheme eligibility criteria for 2012. This will be achieved by making technical adjustments to the Scheme criteria to ensure that the aid payment is focused on farmers, whose farming enterprises are situated exclusively in Less Favoured Areas and who are making a significant contribution to achieving the objectives of the Scheme.
It is proposed that eligible applicants in 2012 must have met (a) a minimum stocking density of 0.3 livestock units per hectare in 2011 (equivalent to 2 ewes per hectare) and (b) 0.15 livestock units per hectare in 2012. However, in recognition of the environmental objectives of the Scheme, specific provisions will be made for those farmers, who had a stocking density less than 0.3 lu/ha in 2011, where that lower stocking density was as a result of adherence to lower stocking by agri-environmental measure. If the proposals are accepted, all applicants, whose stocking density was below 0.3 lu/ha in 2011, will be written to formally and given the opportunity to apply for a derogation on the grounds that his or her participation in one of the above measures resulted in the lower stocking density. The principles of force majeure/exceptional circumstances will also be provided for in the process. It is also intended that provision will be made for new entrants to farming.
229 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when final payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6131/12]
An application under the Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on the 16th of May 2011. This application was selected for a Cross Compliance inspection.
During the course of the inspection breaches were recorded relating to Bovine Passports, failure to notify movements to the Cattle Movement and Monitoring System and an inadequately maintained herd register. As some of these breaches were repeat offences from a similar inspection in 2010, a 15% penalty was recorded and was subsequently deducted from his direct payments in 2011. The person named was informed of this decision on the 12th of January 2012 and of his right to seek a review. He was also informed of his right to appeal the outcome of a review to the Independent Agriculture Appeals office. To date, no such review request has been submitted.
The person named was approved for participation in the Agri-Environment Options Scheme with effect from the 1st September 2010 and has received 75% payment in respect of 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, had to be completed before any payment could issue. The cross compliance penalty, in this case 5%, must be applied and payment for the remaining 25%, less the penalty will issue at the earliest opportunity.
230 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the consultation process entered into internally within his Department or externally with the public with regard to SI 151/2009 (Forestry Act 1988); the rationale behind this statutory instrument; and the reason it was deemed necessary to introduce by-laws and a permit for individuals entering Coillte property. [6148/12]
The Forestry Act 1988 (Section 37) (Coillte Teoranta) By-laws 2009 [Statutory Instrument No. 151 of 2009] was made on foot of a request from Coillte under Section 37 of the Forestry Act 1988. Coillte requested the making of the bye-laws to assist the company in controlling unauthorised activities on Coillte property, examples of which included indiscriminate illegal dumping of domestic and commercial waste, damage to security barriers and property and inappropriate operation of All Terrain Vehicles such as quad bikes and motorbike scrambling.
In relation to consultation, while Coillte consulted with the Garda Síochána on the matter, there was no formal consultation with the public as such. However, the By-Laws were introduced following several complaints from members of the public with regard to anti-social behaviour on Coillte property and in particular in areas frequented by members of the public who enjoy the amenity afforded under Coillte's Open Forest Policy.
It should be noted it has been the practice of the company and its predecessor since the 1970s to operate an Open Forest Policy, whereby the general public are permitted and welcome to use forest lands for non-commercial, informal and recreational purposes. I am advised that formal permission is not required in such cases but access is subject to visitors taking due care for their safety, having consideration for other forest users and respecting the nature of Coillte's commercial operations. In addition to activities allowed under the Open Forest policy, Coillte also permits other activities such as car rallying, pony trekking and game bird and deer shooting under licence, enabling the company to control these activities and ensure that there is no conflict between them and other forest uses. In 2004 Coillte undertook a major review of its recreation policy in consultation with stakeholders, including NGOs, Local Authorities, state agencies, etc, 170 of whom responded to an invitation to contribute to the review.
In addition to the recreational uses described, many unauthorised activities also occur on Coillte lands causing environmental damage, risk of death/injury etc., and as a result, Coillte requested the making of the by-laws to assist the company in controlling such unauthorised activities.
I am advised that the by-laws do not encroach on any existing rights and apply only to those Coillte lands (i.e. lands owned, managed or used by Coillte) on which a Notice of Application of By-Laws has been posted in a visible location where the public might reasonably gain entrance. In introducing the by-laws, Coillte identified those activities causing the company the greatest problems and have made provision for some activities to be banned, others to be restricted and still others to be undertaken only under licence. The range of activities banned, restricted or undertaken only under licence on Coillte property include unauthorised entry; consumption of alcohol; dumping; graffiti; erection of notices and posters; vehicular access and use; control of animals; public nuisance; protection of watercourses; temporary dwellings; use of firearms and the lighting of fires.
231 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will issue a breakdown of the remuneration packages in place for chief executive officers of all semi-State companies here as of 27 January 2011, specifying in detail any bonus, pension, expenses or other arrangement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6420/12]
I have set out in the table below the salaries paid to the CEOs of the State agencies which come under the aegis of my Department. No bonuses are currently paid to any of the CEOs in question. The Deputy should contact the individual bodies regarding their specific pension and expenses arrangements as the arrangements vary between the bodies.
|
State Body |
Salary |
|
Teagasc |
€160,082 |
|
Bord Bia |
€160,082 |
|
National Milk Agency (NMA) |
€85,845 |
|
Marine Institute |
€146,221 |
|
Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) |
€129,512 |
|
Sea Fisheries Protection Agency (SFPA) |
€110,844 |
|
Coillte |
€297,024 |
|
Irish National Stud (INS) |
€133,419 |
|
Bord na gCon |
€155,000 |
|
Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) |
€190,773 |
232 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the position regarding a report (details supplied). [6104/12]
As the Deputy may be aware a number of children-focused services from various sectors, including the National Educational Welfare Board, have been brought together under my responsibility since June 2011 to facilitate Government's objective to deliver an integrated and consistent approach in the development of policy and services aimed at children.
With reference to the outcome of the matters investigated in Special Report No. 8 of the Comptroller and Auditor General published in 2007, I wish to refer the Deputy to the findings of the Report which found that the National Educational Welfare Board had incurred nugatory expenditure of approximately €470,000 and professional fees of €228,000 investigating the matter up to September 2007. With regard to the civil case referenced by the Deputy, I am advised by the Board that the matter has not yet concluded and so it would not be appropriate to comment on the specifics of the case or the legal fees incurred at this point in time.
In relation to the incremental salary payment referred to, in April 2004, the former IT Manager's salary was increased from point 4 of the Assistant Principal Officer scale to the 2nd Long Service Increments (There are six points on the scale plus two Long Service Increments). This had the effect of increasing his salary from €61,959 to €69,460. In 2008 the Department of Education and Skills informed the Public Accounts Committee that no sanction was issued from the Department in relation to this case.
The Department of Education and Skills (being the Department with responsibility for the NEWB at the time of aforementioned expenditure) in view of its key role in the ongoing engagement with bodies under its aegis to ensure continuing compliance with standards in the development and implementation by bodies of their own internal governance and financial systems, established ongoing monitoring and reporting structures with the NEWB whereby all income and expenditure activity was reported to the Department on a quarterly basis. Procedures were also established by the Department of Education and Skills at that time whereby applications for pay alterations could be submitted by the Board in respect of individuals where such consideration was warranted and any sanctions on pay alterations were approved through the Department of Finance and conveyed to the Board in written format.
Furthermore, the Board, in keeping with the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies established internal corporate governance structures which are reviewed and developed on an ongoing basis. These structures include an internal audit function, structured and comprehensive reporting to the Board by the CEO on all aspects of the work of the Board including detailed monthly financial information and approval process for Board and management.
My Department continues to monitor the Board's compliance with the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies. The Board is fully aware of its responsibility with regard to its oversight role in the disbursement of moneys with the Chief Executive Officer being the person accountable to the Board and to the Oireachtas.
233 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her views regarding the outsourcing of assessment agencies for the purposes of inter-country adoption in the context of this function being moved away from the Health Service Executive; and if she will provide further information and a timeframe on this policy issue. [6074/12]
The HSE has developed preliminary proposals in relation to the outsourcing of inter-country adoption assessments and the issues involved are the subject of ongoing discussions with my Department. The outsourcing of this service will be considered against the backdrop of changes in the level of demand for adoption assessments, the overall cost effectiveness of outsourcing the service and the management of priorities within the HSE Children and Families Service.
234 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will provide an update on the negotiations regarding the establishment of a bilateral agreement with Russia in the context of inter-country adoption for Ireland as a receiving country; and the current status of the process, together with the relevant timeframes involved. [6075/12]
In relation to Russia, a limited number of adoptions are currently being processed under transitional arrangements as provided for in the Adoption Act 2010. Such adoptions may take place up to the end of October 2013.
Russia has not ratified the Hague Convention and there appears to be no immediate prospect that this will happen. Therefore, future adoptions from Russia, beyond those provided for under the transitional arrangements, may only be possible under a bilateral agreement developed to the standards of the Hague Convention.
An official delegation from Ireland recently visited Russia and held preliminary discussions regarding the potential for a bilateral agreement. I am awaiting an assessment from the Adoption Authority which will inform the next steps to be taken in relation to this matter. The immediate priority of the Adoption Authority is the development of administrative arrangements with other countries which have ratified the Hague Convention. Any future bilateral arrangements which might be entered into would also be required by law to meet the minimum standards set out in the Convention.
235 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will issue a breakdown of the remuneration packages in place for chief executive officers of all semi-State companies as of 27 January 2011, specifying in detail any bonus, pension, expenses or other arrangement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6422/12]
I would like to inform the Deputy that four agencies are funded by the Exchequer through my Department's Vote. These are the Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI), the Family Support Agency (FSA), the National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) and the Ombudsman for Children. I am not currently responsible for any semi-State company.
236 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health if personnel who leave posts with the Health Service Executive before the end of February will be asked to sign an agreement that they will not seek re-employment through an agency. [6003/12]
It was a specific condition of the 2010 Voluntary Early Retirement scheme that persons availing of the scheme would not be eligible for re-employment in the public health sector or in the wider public service or in a body wholly or mainly funded from public moneys. The same prohibition on re-employment applied under the 2010 Voluntary Redundancy scheme also, except that the prohibition is for a period of 7 years, after which time any re-employment will require the approval of the Minister for Finance. These provisions also apply in the case of re-engagement on a contract for service which would include employment through an agency engaged in the public service.
However, there is currently no voluntary redundancy or voluntary early retirement scheme available in the public health sector. Therefore, no specific re-employment restrictions apply to persons retiring before the end of the ‘grace period' which expires on 29 February 2012.
237 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Health if he will provide a timeline for the merger of the National Cancer Registry board with the Health Service Executive as per his rationalisation plan for State agencies and bodies; when this project is expected to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6005/12]
It is intended that the National Cancer Registry, which has a pivotal role in respect of cancer surveillance and intelligence, will be integrated into the HSE's National Cancer Control Programme following the enactment of the Health Information Bill. It is expected that the Bill will be published during 2012.
238 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) in County Carlow will be informed of the result of a medical card appeal; and if he will expedite a response. [6112/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
239 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Health when a family (details supplied) in County Carlow will be informed of the result of an application for medical cards; and if he will expedite a response. [6113/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
240 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) in County Carlow will be informed of the result of a medical card application; and if he will expedite a response. [6115/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
241 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Health when an appointment will be granted for a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5937/12]
I am determined to address the issues which cause unacceptable delays in patients receiving treatment in our hospitals. In this regard I have established the Special Delivery Unit (SDU), which will work to unblock access to acute services by dramatically improving the flow of patients through the system, and by streamlining waiting lists, including referrals from GPs. The SDU is working closely with its partner agencies — mainly the HSE and the NTPF.
As a priority, public hospitals were instructed to ensure that, by the end of 2011, they had no patients waiting more than 12 months for treatment. I can confirm that the vast majority of hospitals achieved this objective. During 2012 the SDU will support hospitals in the delivery of a 9 month maximum wait time for inpatient or day case surgery.
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply. Should the patient's general practitioner consider that the patient's condition warrants an earlier appointment, he/she would be in the best position to take the matter up with the consultant and facility involved.
242 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health if the long-term illness scheme can be reviewed to include lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus). [5944/12]
There are no plans to extend the list of conditions covered by the Long Term Illness Scheme. Under the Drug Payment Scheme no individual or family pays more than €132 per calendar month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. The scheme significantly reduces the cost burden for families and individuals incurring ongoing expenditure on medicines. In addition, people who cannot, without undue hardship, arrange for the provision of medical services for themselves and their dependants may be entitled to a medical card. In the assessment process, the Health Service Executive can take into account medical costs incurred by an individual or a family. Those who are not eligible for a medical card may still be able to avail of a GP visit card, which covers the cost of general practice consultation.
243 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Health if he will provide details of all the divisional managers in the Health Service Executive covering west Limerick, including their full titles and e-mail addresses. [5947/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
244 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Health the steps being taken to have a national ambulance service transfer policy set up; and when he expects this will be implemented. [5967/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
245 Deputy Arthur Spring asked the Minister for Health the reason a medical card application submitted on the 3 February 2011 is not on record, according to the central processing unit in Finglas, Dublin; and the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kerry received no response to follow-up letters on 21 July 2011 and 11 October seeking acknowledgment that the person’s application was being considered. [5987/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
246 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Health the persons that sat on the car parking working group for Connolly Hospital, Dublin; how the hospital car parking group conducted its consultation and research; if patients were asked for their input; if outpatients were asked for their input; how the working group made its final decision on the methods of charging and payment for car parking; the average amount of time a person spends attending the accident and emergency or outpatients department, and whether this was factored into the final consideration of the method of charging; if there is a policy providing that if a car belonging to a person who has arrived on time for an appointment but is delayed through no fault of his or her own in the hospital is clamped, he or she may receive a clamping charge back; if any consideration has been given to introducing a freephone number in order that patients can extend their parking time while waiting for an appointment, instead of the current telephone system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6010/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
247 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health the position regarding a case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 16. [6014/12]
As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
248 Deputy Alex White asked the Minister for Health the position regarding a medical card application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6051/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
249 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Health the position regarding an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [6064/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
250 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health if he will expedite an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6066/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
251 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health if he will expedite medical card applications in respect of persons (details supplied). [6069/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
252 Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for Health when a child (details supplied) in Dublin 15 will receive speech and language therapy; the reason for the delay in same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6073/12]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for this question to be transferred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
253 Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for Health when a child (details supplied) in Dublin 15 will receive speech and language therapy; the reason for the delay in same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6076/12]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for this question to be transferred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
254 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health when a decision will be made on an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied). [6098/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
255 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Health when a decision will issue on an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6101/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
256 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health the position regarding a long-term care plan in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [6105/12]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for this question to be transferred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
257 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health if he will expedite an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6118/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
258 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive a decision on an application for a medical card; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6128/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
259 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive a decision on an application for a medical card; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6129/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
260 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Health the reason an application lodged on 23 September 2011 by a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon for a general medical services card has not been decided; the reason it took three months to seek extra information, which was immediately lodged; and if he will ensure the GMS card will issue without further delay. [6155/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
261 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Health the reason an application lodged on 23 September 2011 for a general medical services card by a person (details supplied) in County Leitrim has not been decided; the reason it took three months to seek extra information, which was immediately lodged; and if he will ensure a GMS card will issue without further delay. [6157/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
262 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Health the reason an application lodged on 14 July for a general medical services card by a person (details supplied) in County Leitrim has not been decided; the reason the extra documents were requested and had to be submitted on at least three occasions; the reason it took months to seek extra information; and if he will ensure a GMS card will issue without further delay. [6158/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
263 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if and when a medical card will issue in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6175/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
264 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Health if he will issue a breakdown of the remuneration packages in place for chief executive officers of all semi-State companies here as of 27 January 2011, specifying in detail any bonus, pension, expenses or other arrangement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6427/12]
The Voluntary Health Insurance Board is the only commercial semi-state company under the aegis of this Department. The post of CEO is currently vacant. Following an unsuccessful recruitment campaign to appoint a CEO to the VHI, an existing employee agreed to take up the position on an acting up basis without any increase in his remuneration package.
265 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the planned merger of the National Roads Authority and the Railway Procurement Agency is under way; when the process is expected to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6008/12]
Proposals for the restructuring of the National Roads Authority and the Railway Procurement Agency are still under consideration. A decision on the proposed merger will be made shortly.
266 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the plans of Fáilte Ireland for the sale of maps in its tourist office network for the 2012 season; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6009/12]
Fáilte Ireland operates an extensive network of Tourism Information Offices throughout the country. The day-to-day management of these offices is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland. I have referred the Deputy's Question to the agency for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
267 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will introduce measures to increase the level of back seat seatbelt usage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6094/12]
Road safety legislation requires that car seat belts must be fitted to all forward facing seats and must be worn. In addition, the RSA's Road Safety Strategy 2007-2012 identifies a number of specific targets groups in order to improve seatbelt wearing rates in the adult, primary school and secondary school-going populations.
In assessing the success of these initiatives, a 2011 study has revealed an increase in rear seatbelt wearing rates among each of these groups, with adult rates increasing from 79% in 2009 to 90%; primary school students increasing from 80% to 94%; and secondary school students increasing from 83% to 93%. The RSA is continuing to influence attitudes and behaviours toward seatbelt usage through a number of educational programmes and mediums.
Although compliance with safety belt wearing requirements in Ireland is high and we are among the top EU best-practice countries as regards safety belt wearing rates, incidences in which safety belts are not worn are still over-represented in collision data. I understand that the RSA will be including increased safety belt wearing rate targets in the new Road Safety Strategy 2013-2020 which is currently being prepared.
