Vol. 760 No. 2
11 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she has met with the Department of Justice and Equality on finalising a date for when the national vetting bureau and soft information Bill will be brought forward. [15124/12]
Work on the National Vetting Bureau Bill, which will include provisions in relation to the use of so called ‘soft' information is being led by the Department of Justice and Equality. This Bill forms part of a suite of complementary legislative proposals being brought forward by Government. In addition to the National Vetting Bureau Bill, this includes the Children First Bill being developed by my Department and the Criminal Justice (Withholding Information) Bill under the Department of Justice and Equality. Given the close link between the legislative programmes of my Department and the Department of Justice and Equality I have regular contact with my colleague Minister Shatter in this regard.
In addition, officials from my Department have been meeting and working closely with colleagues in the Department of Justice and Equality to provide feedback on the legislation as it is being developed. Specifically, officials of my Department are participating on a working group which is providing feedback to the Department of Justice and Equality on the National Vetting Bureau Bill.
12 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs when she expects the child and family support agency to be established; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15855/12]
The Child and Family Support Agency is at the heart of the Government's reform of child and family services. The establishment of a single agency incorporating key children's services will provide a focus for the major reforms already underway. This reform programme contains a number of critical elements:
The continued and urgent implementation of a comprehensive change programme to improve the quality and consistency of child welfare and protection services;
The introduction of legislation to place Children First on a statutory basis;
The establishment for the first time of a dedicated budget for children and family services, providing transparency and accountability for the use of resources to meet national priorities;
The development of legislation to be brought before the Oireachtas later this year to provide for the operation of the new Agency from early 2013;
The transition of existing HSE child protection and welfare and services into the new Agency;
The merger of the existing Family Support Agency with a budget of over €26 million into the Child and Family Support Agency;
Consideration of the potential for further rationalisation of services for children under the new Agency.
The Deputy will be aware of the comprehensive change programme currently being implemented under the leadership of Mr. Gordon Jeyes, as National Director of Child and Family Services. Mr. Jeyes was employed last year following an international, open recruitment process. The change programme underway is addressing the quality and consistency of child welfare and protection services. This change process will continue into the new Child and Family Support Agency where Gordon Jeyes will be the first Chief Executive. An open recruitment process is underway for a number of key senior positions for the Agency. I hope that this process delivers a very strong team to work with Gordon in leading the improvement of children's services.
Enhanced accountability is an important feature of the reforms. This greater transparency is already evident in the provision for the first time of a dedicated budget of €550 million for Children and Family Services in 2012. This will bring greater transparency and control to budgetary management and pave the way for the establishment of the new Agency in 2013.
The Task Force on the establishment of the Agency that I established has undertaken a considerable body of work in preparation for the new Agency. I met with the Task Force at their twelfth meeting held last month for an update on this work, which is also being advanced through two sub-groups. In the coming weeks I expect to receive the advice of the Task Force on a number of key issues which are critical to my decisions on legislative proposals regarding the new Agency and in particular, a vision for the Agency, governance arrangements and appropriate services for inclusion in the Agency.
As I have just outlined, extensive work is underway in my Department, in the HSE, and through the Task Force I set up last September to prepare for the establishment of the Child and Family Support Agency. The preparations are designed to allow for the Agency to assume full statutory responsibility for services for children and families early in 2013.
13 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs following the Health Information and Quality Authority report on the Ballydowd special care unit in Lucan, County Dublin, and the recent findings, following their inspection, that the practices there are unsuitable and unacceptable and that there is a lack of social workers attending the unit and providing services to vulnerable children, the action she has taken following her recent announcement of five new social work posts; the number of extra posts needed to reverse the practice in the Ballydowd special unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15177/12]
42 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs following the Health Information and Quality Authority report on the Ballydowd special care unit in Lucan, County Dublin, and the recent findings, following their inspection, that practices there are unsuitable and unacceptable and that there is a lack of social workers attending the unit and providing services to vulnerable children, the action she has taken following her recent announcement of five new social work posts; the number of extra posts needed to reverse the practice in the Ballydowd special unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15176/12]
52 Deputy Derek Keating asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs following the Health Information and Quality Authority report on the Ballydowd special care unit in Lucan, County Dublin, and the recent findings, following their inspection, that practices there are unsuitable and unacceptable and that there is a lack of social workers attending the unit and providing services to vulnerable children, the action she has taken following her recent announcement of five new social work posts; the number of extra posts needed to reverse the practice in the Ballydowd special unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15201/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 13, 42 and 52 together.
The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) inspects Special Care Units annually under Section 69 of the Child Care Act 1991. HIQA undertook a full unannounced inspection of Ballydowd Special Care Unit on 3rd and 4th November 2011, as part of their annual inspection programme. The report of the findings from this inspection were published on 6th March last.
Inspectors found that there was a marked improvement in the standard of care in the unit since the last round of inspections in 2010. The main areas of improvement were in management, the delivery of care to the children and the overall presentation of the unit. The whole campus had been repainted and brought to a good overall standard. The safety concerns raised due to ongoing building works at the time had been well managed and risk assessed. The management of the unit had been strengthened by the introduction of good systems of accountability and clear lines of responsibility, which impacted positively on the day to day operations of the unit and the overall delivery of care to the children, staff practices and accountability. At the time of the inspection, a clinical team of child and adolescent psychiatry, child psychology and social work were available to the children in Ballydowd. Additionally, the inspectors also found that there were sufficient staffing to provide for optimal care for the children. Inspectors noted that all the children had an allocated social worker and were visited by social workers regularly. It was noted that social workers visited the children, met them privately and had access to their unit and bedrooms. Visits made by the children's Social Workers met the statutory requirements. Inspectors raised concerns regarding the impact of the building works on the space available to the children and the challenges posed by one child's complex needs.
HIQA inspected the unit against 40 standards and reported that 26 of these standards were met in full, 12 were partially met and 2 were not met. By way of comparison, in a July 2010 inspection, 6 out of 39 standards were met and 15 were not met. This clearly illustrates a marked improvement in findings during the most recent inspection. The 2 standards that were not met were in relation to "single separation" and "location and design".
It is very important that the facts of the care of one child in Ballydowd are clarified. There have been assumptions made that the care provided by the clinical and care staff Ballydowd to this young person fell below standards. Following this child's placement in Ballydowd, it became apparent that the child's full range of complex and demanding needs and behaviours could not be met in a Special Care Unit. Following a risk assessment by the clinical team and the acting director of the unit this child was cared for singly on their own in part of a Unit, whilst awaiting a specialist placement outside the country. This decision was approved by the clinical team, in conjunction with the placing social worker and team manager. The child had access to other children for limited periods, short periods in school and staff took the child on a range of outings. The decision on how to care for the child was reviewed by the clinical team on a weekly basis. There was no secrecy involved in the care programme for the child.
Inspectors expressed concerns in relation to this child on two matters. The first was the manner of recording the child being cared for in a separate part of the Unit. Inspectors considered the placement should have been recorded on a daily basis as a single separation. The HSE had taken the view that the child's placement was a single placement, and they would record as a single separation if the child was sent to his bedroom to be alone for a period. The second concern was the length of time the child was waiting for the specialist placement oversees. As this placement was outside this jurisdiction, and has many demands on its services, the social worker had limited influence to bring forward the child's date of admission. However I am glad to be able to say that shortly after the inspection, the child moved overseas to this specialist placement appropriate to his complex needs and continues to reside there.
There was no concern that a shortage of staff in the Unit influenced or impacted on the care of this child.
I welcome the findings of this report and the fact there are significant improvements since the inspections in 2010. My Department will continue to monitor the delivery special care services.
14 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to develop a policy for children entering the care system who require high levels of support; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15113/12]
51 Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of children currently in the care system; the number of these children who require high levels of support; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15114/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 51 together.
The primary legislation governing child care policy is the Child Care Act, 1991. Under this Act the Health Service Executive (HSE) has a statutory duty to promote the welfare of children who are not receiving adequate care and protection. Thus if a child is in need of care and protection and is unlikely to receive it at home, the HSE has a duty to ensure they receive appropriate care. In such circumstances children can be taken into care on a voluntary basis (on agreement with the parents) or under a various Court Orders under the Child Care Act, 1991.
Where a child is coming into care the allocated social worker undertakes a full assessment of need, and on this basis the statutory care plan is developed. This assessment will call on a full range of professionals where required to set out a comprehensive statement of the child's needs. The care plan also determines the support and interventions needed with regard to the family situation where it is planned that a child will return home. The care plan directs the placement most appropriate to the needs of the child and for the majority of children, over 90%, the child is placed in family foster care.
The HSE's published figures for December 2011 show there were 453 children placed across all forms of residential care. National and operational policy is that children of 12 years and under are placed in family placements where at all possible. Over 90% of children in residential care are 13 years and older, and the majority are placed in open children's residential centres in communities across the country. Typically between 3 and 5 young people live in the centre and are cared for by a qualified team of staff, attend at school and other activities similar to their peers.
The HSE provides care for children in their teenage years whose needs are such that they required additional support in High Support Units, in single residential placements and in Special Care Units. Additional support is provided in High Support Units and Single Placements to children over the age of 12 who are in need of specialised intervention. There are two Units with a national catchment area and management team and a number of specific smaller local Units. These units are open, the child is not detained. Typically, the Unit has a school/educational facility on site, a higher ratio of staff and support from psychologist, psychiatrist and other therapeutic interventions. High support units aim to assist young people in developing internal control of behaviour, to enhance self-esteem, facilitate personal abilities and strengths, and to build a capacity for constructive choice, resilience and responsibility.
The HSE commissioned an external review of alternative care services and this report is currently being finalised. I intend to carefully review the findings and recommendations of this review to ensure that the services on offer to our most vulnerable and needy children are of a high quality and are accessible. The HSE is already tracking those children in their care who are at risk, including looking at children with placement breakdown patterns, and this and other information gleaned from HSE audits and reviews and external inspections will inform future policy.
The development of the new Children and Family Support Agency is central to the reforms outlined in the Government's change programme to improve the quality and consistency of child welfare and protection services. The Taskforce appointed by me in September 2011 has undertaken a considerable body of work in preparation for the new Agency and I expect to receive the advice from the Task Force on the vision, governance and scope of services for the new Agency. These recommendations will be an important input into the development of detailed legislation to provide for the Agency and any future policy.
15 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the level of funding required to operate the 116000 missing children hotline; the level of funding that the State has allocated for this purpose; if the State has made an application for funding under the EU Daphne programme for this and the level of funding applied for; the date on which an answer will be received on this application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15118/12]
49 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will provide the details of the technical issues that ComReg is currently examining that have prevented it from activating the 116000 missing children hotline to date; and the date on which she expects the number to be activated. [15117/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 49 together.
Under EU telecoms rules agreed in 2009, the 116000 number is reserved in all EU member states for a missing children hotline. My Department established and is leading a cross-sectoral Project Team, including representatives of my own Department, the Department of Justice and Equality, ComReg and An Garda Síochána to advance this matter.
The position is that ComReg, who have responsibility for allocation of this number in Ireland, received an application to operate the Hotline from the ISPCC. Following cross departmental consultation and an examination of the issues involved by the Project team, ComReg has now allocated the number to the ISPCC. The operation of Hotline is now a matter for the ISPCC who have made an application for funding to the European Commission and a decision on this application is pending. The ISPCC are currently finalising the project plan for the Hotline and will liaise with the Project Team on this matter.
In the coming months the Project Team will work to ensure that the Hotline becomes operational as soon as possible and operates in a way that supports and augments existing arrangements to secure child protection.
16 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the steps being taken to protect front line youth services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15171/12]
My Department provides a range of funding schemes, programmes and supports to the youth sector. These include the Youth Service Grant Scheme, the Special Projects for Youth Scheme, the Young Peoples Facilities and Services Fund (Rounds 1 and 2) and certain other provisions including the Local Youth Club Grant Scheme, Youth Information Centres, European Youth in Action Programme (administered by Léargas — The Exchange Bureau) and Gaisce — the President's Award. These programmes support the delivery of youth services to some 500,000 young people by approximately 1,100 youth work personnel and a volunteer base which is estimated to be of the order of 60,000.
The main objectives of my Department are to develop and implement coherent, coordinated and relevant youth policies and strategies to support the youth sector in providing effective non-formal education and developmental opportunities for young people through which they can enhance and develop their personal and social skills and competencies. Funding of some €56.806m for current expenditure and €1.5m for capital expenditure is available from my Department in 2012 to support the provision of youth services and programmes. In determining funding allocations for 2012, as in previous years, the emphasis has been on maintaining front line youth services. The €1.5m capital provision is a new allocation and will support the development of infrastructure for the delivery of youth services, in particular youth cafés which provide recreational outlets in an alcohol free environment. In line with overall requirements to achieve public expenditure swings the current funding allocation for youth services available to my Department was reduced this year. Notwithstanding this overall reduction, I successfully maintained the funding provision for the Local Youth Club Grant Scheme which is important in encouraging a network of volunteer led youth clubs across the county. As Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, I am committed to the development of a new youth policy framework which my Department is currently progressing. Through this work a clear policy framework will emerge that will aim to enhance the development, participation and support of young people. I intend that the policy framework will also facilitate and promote co-ordination and coherence across departments and front line youth services and will set out the priorities, rationale and criteria for future funding programmes. This will ensure that the funding available in future years will be used as effectively as possible.
17 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the measures she intends to bring forward to strengthen significantly the existing legislative, policy and practice framework in the area of child protection. [15125/12]
The Government is committed to fundamental reform and transformation of the delivery of our family support, child welfare and child protection services. A number of significant structural and legislative changes are key to effecting such reform. This includes the establishment of the new Child and Family Support Agency with dedicated responsibility for the delivery of child welfare and protection services, separate from the HSE and reporting directly to my Department through its Chief Executive. The new Agency will take over the existing change programme for child welfare and protection services which is being overseen by the HSE's National Director, Mr Gordon Jeyes. The Government's reform programme for these services also includes the external inspection of child protection services by HIQA. Draft standards to be inspected against have just been published by HIQA and following consultation on these standards, inspections will commence later this year.
The Children First National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children, published in 2011, provides greater clarity and guidance for individuals and organisations in identifying and responding appropriately to child abuse and neglect. The revised Guidance stresses that the responsibility for child protection lies across all organisations and, whilst the HSE and the Gardai have particular roles in assessment and prosecution of allegations, working across sectors is essential to good outcomes. The HSE subsequently launched their Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook, a practice based publication aimed primarily at social workers, although it may be informative to others working in child protection. The HSE, as the body with statutory responsibility for the welfare of children, has a key role in terms of providing training, advice and information on the operation of Children First. The consistent implementation of the Children First Guidance across all sectors working with children is a high priority for Government. The Department of Children and Youth Affairs is taking a lead role in implementation issues. An Interdepartmental Group has been established at which both the HSE and An Garda Siochana are represented. The purpose of the Group is to promote the importance of Children First compliance across Government and to ensure consistency of approach. The Group will provide support to Departments and sectors in bringing forward plans for implementation within each sector. This Department will develop appropriate reporting mechanisms for other Government Departments in respect of the implementation of Children First within each sector and the assurance arrangements to monitor implementation and compliance.
The Government has committed, as a priority, to the introduction of legislation to underpin Children First. My Department has been working intensively to ensure the policy that is being developed will serve to protect children. I have consulted with a high level group of experts in the field, and reviewed legislation and practice internationally.
The policy framework to implement the decision by Government to put ‘Children First' on a statutory footing has been developed and draft heads have been provided to the Attorney General's office for her advices this week. Subject to her advice it is my intention to bring the General Scheme of the Bill to the Oireachtas Committee for Health and Children for its consideration.
The framework focusses on the promotion and wellbeing of children generally; the provision of safe services for children; cooperation amongst professionals and organisations where children are at risk of neglect and abuse and making key individuals responsible for reporting child abuse that is known to them. The latter objective is aimed at removing ambivalence, reluctance or refusal by people and organisations in positions of trust and authority to report child abuse and cooperate with the relevant authorities.
I intend that the legislation will reflect a broad based approach to compliance with obligations extending beyond reporting to one of safeguarding children at risk. The objective will be to ensure the greater protection of children by underpinning safe practices in organisations that provide care, education and other services to children.
18 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will provide a list of all the residential units accommodating children in the care system during each of the past five years; the number of children they have accommodated each year; the number of times each of these units has been inspected by the Health Information and Quality Authority since its establishment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15107/12]
There were 6,160 children in care at the end of December 2011, 443 of whom were in residential care. Children in residential care are placed in open residential centres run by either the HSE or private/voluntary providers in communities across the country. Typically between 3 and 5 young people live in the centre and are cared for by a qualified team of staff, attend at school and other activities similar to their peers. In the interests of privacy and safety, it would not be appropriate to list the names of the residential centres.
The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) is an independent agency responsible for driving quality, safety and accountability in residential services for children, older people and people with disabilities in Ireland. HIQA develops standards, monitors compliance with standards and carries out investigations where they believe there are reasonable grounds to do so. HIQA inspects children's residential centres under Section 69 of the Child Care Act, 1991.
I am advised by HIQA that there are 65 Health Service Executive (HSE) run residential centres in operation as at 16th March 2012. A total of 300 inspections of HSE children's residential centres were undertaken by HIQA since 15th May 2007. Reports of these inspections can be accessed at www.hiqa.ie.
The HSE is responsible for the registration and inspection of private or voluntary (non-statutory) run residential centres for children. The latest information available indicates that there were 81 non-statutory children residential centres in October 2009. Centres in the non-statutory sector open and close according to the demand for places from the HSE and I have requested up to date information from the HSE in relation to the number of non-statutory residential centres for children and I will forward this information once received.
19 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she has met the Department of Education and Skills in order to improve links and engagement between the early childhood care sector and the education system. [15100/12]
A structured collaboration with my Department and the Department of Education and Skills has been put in place to ensure that policy developments through the continuum of the early childhood care and education sector and the formal education sector are developed within an overall strategic policy framework for children. The approach adopted is based on the co-location of a unit staffed by the Department of Education and Skills but physically located in my Department and reporting to Management Committees in both Departments through the appropriate line manager.
Further developments from an educational viewpoint will be considered as part of the preparation of Ireland's first Early Years Strategy. Work is under way in my Department on this new strategy.
20 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the date on which she will publish adoption legislation to accompany a children’s rights referendum; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15105/12]
In the context of the proposed referendum on children's rights I am very aware of the need to provide clarity around the associated proposals for legislative change regarding adoption. Work is ongoing in the Department in this regard. It is my intention that the adoption proposals will be published in conjunction with the publication of the proposed wording of the referendum.
21 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans for reforming the current structures regarding the appointment of Guardians ad Litem; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15837/12]
Appointment of a guardian ad litem (GAL) is provided under section 26 of the Child Care Act 1991. Under this provision, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem to a child who is the subject of care proceedings, if it is satisfied that it is necessary in the interests of the child and in the interests of justice to do so. They are always appointed where a child is subject to Special Care proceedings. Section 26 also provides that the costs incurred by any person acting as a guardian ad litem shall be paid by the HSE.
There is a commitment in the Ryan Implementation Plan to engage with colleagues to agree a future policy for management and funding of the service. My Department is currently reviewing provision of GAL services having regard to previous reports and current data on demand. Officials are working closely with the HSE and other agencies with expertise with a view to establishing the most appropriate arrangements for the future organisation and delivery of this service. Preliminary discussions have also taken place with the Department of Justice, Equality and Defence in relation to this matter.
22 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the services that will come under the remit of the new child and family support agency. [15123/12]
The Government has decided that child welfare and protection services will transfer from the Health Service Executive to the new Agency. It has also decided that the services of the Family Support Agency will similarly transfer.
I established the Task Force on the Child and Family Support Agency in September last, to advise my Department in regard to the necessary transition programme to establish a Child and Family Support Agency. The Task Force is chaired by Ms Maureen Lynott and it will base its work on best practice in child welfare, family support and public administration; consistent with the Government's public sector reform agenda. It has been mandated to look at a range of matters, including providing advice to my Department on the appropriate service responsibilities of the Agency and the delivery of same.
Whilst the Task Force has briefed me regarding its ongoing consideration of this issue, my Department awaits receipt of its formal report.
The proposals I will make to the Government in due course regarding the Agency's scope of service will be informed by the work to be completed by the Task Force in that regard.
23 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she has reconsidered the need to set a target for the number of social workers employed in the area of child protection by the end of 2012 in order to ensure that gaps in the child protection system are eliminated in line with the targeted approach adopted following on from the recommendations of the Ryan report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15839/12]
The HSE compiles a monthly census of employment in the public health and social care sector. This shows that the total number of social workers employed in the HSE and in directly funded agencies at the end of 2011 was 2,442 whole time equivalents (WTEs). This is an increase of 252 WTEs from the position at end 2009 and reflects the recruitment which has taken place following the publication of the Implementation Plan in response to the findings of the Report of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse. The recruitment of additional child protection social work staff under the implementation plan in late 2011/early 2012 is not fully reflected in this figure. Further recruitment of social work staff as part of a new multi-disciplinary team for children in care and detention is also planned in 2012.
With regard to end year social worker employment levels, the National Director of Children and Families Services, Gordon Jeyes, will apply his discretion over the course of the year to the filling of vacancies, having regard to identified priorities, the overall level of resources available and subject to meeting employment targets.
The Service Plan for 2012 sets out a range of reforms and performance measures to guide the improvement of child welfare and protection services. Priorities include:
Delivery of consistent family support services and development of a national protocol on supervision orders;
Improving the collection of accurate data on services and on children in care, including procurement of the National Child Care Information System;
Establishing a national Child Protection Register;
Developing consistent risk assessment and measurement tools;
A greater focus on quality assurance and auditing of workloads;
Preparing and implementing a Workforce Development Plan for child and family services;
Continuing the implementation of National Standards for Pre-School Services.
I am very much aware of the financial and service challenges facing the HSE in 2012. The challenges are such as to require acceleration of the reform programme across child and family services, leading to the establishment of a new and dedicated Children and Family Support Agency, to which the Government is fully committed.
The Government has made additional budgeting provision for these services compared to the funding made available last year. This provides a further impetus to the comprehensive reform of service delivery which is under way and which is aimed at generating the best possible outcomes for vulnerable children and families.
My Department will be working very closely with the HSE throughout the year to ensure that the priorities set out in the HSE National Service Plan are implemented where they relate to children and family services. We have set an ambitious programme of work, one which is designed to significantly strengthen the policy, legislative and practice framework. Our shared goal is the delivery of appropriate, effective and consistent services, notwithstanding the very challenging and demanding circumstances in which these services are delivered.
24 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the extent to which she has had an opportunity to study the degree to which children and teenagers are bullied by their peers or others on an ongoing basis; the extent to which this happens through the Internet or mobile phones, social networks or otherwise; the extent to which she can put in place procedures to alert parents, guardians or school authorities with particular reference to social media; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15199/12]
I am aware that children and teenagers are susceptible to bullying which can emanate from a variety of sources. An unacceptably high proportion of children have been the subject of some form of bullying, and we know that there have in some cases been tragic consequences.
According to the 2008 survey "Growing Up In Ireland" the most common form of bullying identified by children who were victims was verbal bullying, followed by exclusion and physical bullying. Bullying by written messages and electronic means was less prominent at the time, but we are all aware that our children are very susceptible to the use of electronic media for bullying purposes, as use of this media, particularly for social networking, continues to grow.
The Office for Internet Safety was established by the Government to take a lead responsibility for internet safety in Ireland, particularly as it relates to children. It was instrumental in publishing ‘A Guide to Cyber Bullying' at the end of 2008. The Office advises never to have a personal conversation with a stranger, whether it's by email, a chatroom, a social networking website or instant messenger. The National Centre for Technology in Education (NCTE) developed the website ‘ www.webwise.ie’http://www.webwise.ie/ which provides information and resources to teachers, parents and students to help ensure that children’s online experiences are positive and safe.
This year's Safer Internet Day took place in February. It is organised by the European Internet Safety Network, with the aim of promoting safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile phones, especially amongst children and young people across the world.
The ISPCC urges parents of children who spend a lot of unsupervised time on the internet to become better informed about online safety and to communicate with their children around the rules and boundaries of internet usage. It is worrying that many secondary aged children do not use any privacy settings on their social network profile; clearly indicating that many young people are not taking necessary and available steps to ensure their information is kept private. Internet usage, also possible now on many portable devices, is set to become even more popular, so vigilance is required. In order to combat bullying simple steps can be taken such as saving the evidence, telling a parent, and crucially not responding to the bullying behaviour.
In relation to bullying in schools the Department of Education and Skills deals with regulations and guidelines on this issue. It is my understanding that the individual Board of Management of the school is the body responsible for the governance of the school, including responsibility for implementing effective policies to counter bullying. Any complaint of bullying should in the first instance be made to the Chairperson of the Board of Management. The Department of Education and Skills may subsequently become involved should it be necessary to review the handling of the complaint by the Board of Management.
My Department provided funding in 2010 towards "Addressing Homophobia — Guidelines for the Youth Sector In Ireland", developed by the BeLonG To Youth Services. This is an important resource to help raise awareness of homophobia and to support the youth sector in preventing and addressing homophobic bullying.
25 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the proposals she has made to the Department of Health in terms of enhancing mental health services for adolescents and young persons in view of the fact that 16 and 17 year olds, for example, cannot be seen by child psychiatric services and the ban on the admission of adolescents into adult wards; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15174/12]
Child and adolescent mental health services are the direct responsibility of my colleague the Minister for Health, in conjunction with the Minister of State with Responsibility for Disability, Equality, Mental Health and Older People. I work very closely with both Ministers, as I do with all Government colleagues, in relation to children's matters. Nevertheless, as stated, specific responsibility in relation to child and adolescent mental health services resides with the Department of Health and the Health Service Executive. I am aware that €35m extra funding has been made available for mental health and that child and adolescent mental health services are a priority area for investment.
Key to the development of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services is the establishment of multidisciplinary community based teams, of which 61 are currently in place. Special funding allocated to the HSE in 2012 will in part be used to strengthen these Community Child and Adolescent Mental Health Teams by ensuring, at a minimum, that at least one of each mental health professional discipline is represented on every team.
In the context of the establishment of the Child and Family Support Agency consideration has been given to the interface with specialist health services to improve the experience of children and families. In this regard, the Task Force on the Child and Family Support Agency recently met with the HSE's Assistant National Director for Mental Health and the National Child and Adolescents Mental Health Services Advisor.
Finally, my Department is developing a National Children and Young People's Policy Framework in association with other Government Departments. This Framework will be published this year and will cover a five year period. It will address the issue of priorities across children's services and the need for linkage to ensure services are delivered in a joined-up fashion.
26 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the extent to which she intends to put in place measures to prevent trafficking in children and child abuse of a mental, physical or sexual nature over the remainder of the current year; the degree to which she has had discussions with various groups in this context; if and when she expects to put in place the necessary protective measures; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15200/12]
Under the Child Care Act, 1991, the Health Service Executive (HSE) is responsible for the care and protection of separated children seeking asylum until they reach 18 years of age. Their immediate and ongoing needs as well as their application for refugee status are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive (HSE) in accordance with the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) and the Child Care Act, 1991. The issue of trafficking legislation is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence.
Where children are identified by An Garda Síochána at a point of entry, their circumstances are investigated and if there are any concerns about the welfare of the child, they are placed into the care of the HSE. The hostel accommodation arrangements that previously operated have been discontinued and children are now placed in fostering arrangements.
The HSE is aware that separated children seeking asylum who go missing from care may be at risk of being trafficked. The HSE and the Gardaí National Immigrant Bureau have worked closely since 2008 in this regard and have in place a Joint National Protocol on Children who go missing from care. Joint meetings between their respective management have been held to identify risk, share information and work co-operatively in respect to this group of children. The parties to the meetings have included Local Garda Inspectors, Garda National Immigration Bureau Inspectors, Social Workers engaged in the provision of after hours services and separated children seeking asylum teams.
Additional steps taken to address risk issues in relation to separated children include
collaborative interviewing at points of entry between the Gardaí and social workers.
planned surveillance of those at risk of going missing from the point of entry to the initial period in placement and a range of other activities undertaken by An Garda Síochána.
HSE management and staff have also been closely involved in collaboration with the Department of Justice and Equality in the development of the National Action Plan on Anti-Human Trafficking and every effort is being made to fulfil commitments to combat trafficking as outlined in this Plan. My Department and the HSE are also represented on the High Level Group on Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings, which is chaired by the Department of Justice and Equality.
Separately the revised Children First National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children provides complementary guidance and deals with the recognition, reporting and management of child safety concerns more generally. It emphasises the need to safeguard and to protect children, particularly vulnerable children. It specifically highlights the roles and responsibilities of the HSE and An Garda Síochána, as the two agencies with statutory responsibility for child protection and forms an integral part of their existing operations and practice. Where the HSE has identified a concern regarding child trafficking, this is referred to the Gardaí and the two statutory organisations work closely together to ensure the safety of the child.
27 Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will discuss with the Adoption Authority of Ireland whether the body will process current referrals from recognised bodies in India in advance of an AAI delegation visiting the Indian National Central Authority, known as CARA; if she will acknowledge the undue hardship faced by couples in Ireland trying to adopt from India and the children they seek to adopt due to the actions of the AAI; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15133/12]
The Adoption Authority of Ireland is an independent statutory body charged with implementing the Adoption Act, 2010. The Authority has responsibility for the direct operational implementation of legislation and Government policy.
Adoptions between Ireland and India must comply with the terms and conditions of the 1993 Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption. The Hague Convention is a co-operative agreement drawn up to allow countries to mutually support one another in protecting the best interests of children in the intercountry adoption process. It is designed in such a way as to allow for mirrored mechanisms and structures to mutually assure countries of the safety and standard of intercountry adoptions in those countries. The Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI) performs the function of a Central Authority under the Adoption Act, 2010, in accordance with the Convention. In choosing to deal primarily with Hague countries, the AAI has the mechanism to work collaboratively with equivalent structures in that country. Each Central Authority has the responsibility to oversee standards in respect of those parts of the process taking place within their respective jurisdictions. This mutual arrangement is designed to give the AAI, the Government and, most importantly, those involved in the adoption process assurance as to the standards being set and the oversight of the system.
It is important to note that the Indian Authorities have recently reviewed and introduced changes to their intercountry adoption system. The AAI has contacted CARA, the Indian Central Authority for intercountry adoptions, and provides updates on its website as appropriate. Further, the AAI is proposing to visit CARA/India at the end of April to discuss matters relating to adoption between the two countries.
28 Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will make a legislative change to address the anomaly in the Education (Welfare) Act 2000 which does not cover four and five year olds currently enrolled in primary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15170/12]
The Education (Welfare) Act, 2000 established the National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) as the single national body with responsibility for school attendance. The Act provides a comprehensive framework to promote regular school attendance and tackle the problems of absenteeism and early school leaving. The general functions of the Board are to ensure that each child attends a recognised school or otherwise receives a certain minimum education.
All children between the ages of 6 and 16 years or until completion of 3 years post-primary education, whichever is the later, are required to attend school regularly. Under the Act, it is the parent who is legally obliged to ensure this regular school attendance. Alternatively, where a parent chooses to educate their child in a place other than a recognised school the parent must apply to have the child registered with the Board as being in receipt of certain minimum education.
This legal obligation on parents and the Board's associated powers of enforcement do not extend to children under six years of age. This legislative matter is currently being examined by my Department in accordance with our mandate to align policies, legislation and resources in order to achieve better outcomes for children. The potential implications of any legislative change require careful consideration from a number of perspectives to ensure no unintended consequences arise in the provision of early childhood care and education or elsewhere in the school system. My officials will work closely with colleagues in the Department of Education and Skills and the NEWB on this issue.
However, it is also essential to recognise that there is no legislative impediment to the proactive approach to early intervention currently being adopted by the Board in the event of a school attendance difficulty for children of all ages. In addition, the Deputy may also wish to note that numerous provisions of the Act do in fact cover four and five year olds currently enrolled in a primary school.
In the first instance, schools are required to record and monitor absences for all students enrolled in the school, regardless of age. Schools must report patterns of non-attendance or concerns about the educational welfare of individual students including those aged under 6 to the designated Education Welfare Officer. The Education Welfare Officer will then work with the family, the school and other services where appropriate to improve attendance and participation in school.
Furthermore, the Board advises that where requested, Education Welfare Officers provide advice and support to parents whose children (up to the age of 18) experience difficulty in securing a school placement or in expulsion situations. In this respect it is significant that the powers of the Education Welfare Officer to appeal school decisions regarding enrolment, expulsion and suspension also apply to under 6s. Similarly, where it is known that a child — who is under six and enrolled in primary school — is a member of a family with established difficulties and has siblings that the Board is already working with, Education Welfare Officers will engage proactively with this child as part of the overall actions undertaken to address the particular family's complex needs.
Since mid-2009, the Board has an expanded remit which includes responsibility for the Home School Community Liaison Scheme and the School Completion Programme in DEIS schools in addition to the national Education Welfare Service. Consequently, at local level these programmes will also seek to engage with families prior to children commencing mainstream education and throughout, irrespective of age. Both these programmes are highly targeted and will prioritise children and families requiring additional supports.
29 Deputy John Halligan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of child protection teams that are short of staff as a result of the moratorium on recruitment; the number of children at risk because of these staff shortages; if she is confident that those recorded as being at risk on the risk registers are an accurate reflection of the situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15130/12]
As Minister for Children and Youth Affairs I have statutory responsibility for the child welfare and protection services. My colleague, the Minister for Health in conjunction with the Minister for State with responsibility for Disability, Equality, Mental Health and Older People has responsibility for mental health team and disability teams. I work closely with both colleagues, as I do with all members of the Government in relation to children's issues. However, the detailed service information sought relating to disability and mental health would be most appropriately addressed to the Minister with direct responsibility for those services.
Child protection teams are based geographically in the local health area office. During 2010 and 2011, 260 additional social workers were recruited and were assigned across the country to child protection teams and to ‘children in care' teams. The latest data available from the HSE shows that in January 2012 the total number of social workers employed in Children and Family Services providing services to children at risk and in care was 1,220 whole time equivalents.
It is important to stress that there is no moratorium on filling social work posts within the overall public sector numbers. The National Director of Children and Families Services will apply his discretion over the course of the year to the filling of vacancies, subject to meeting overall employment targets and on the basis that services are being delivered within available resources.
Child Protection Referrals
The Deputy refers to cases being recorded on ‘risk registers'. The Deputy may be referring to the establishment by the HSE of a ‘National Child Protection Register' as part of their Child Protection Notification System. The Child Protection Notification System records children where, following an assessment and case conference, the view is that there is a child protection risk. I have been assured that all referrals of child welfare and protection are assessed by the duty or intake team. Those cases that are identified as most serious or urgent are allocated immediately to a social worker. Other referrals may benefit from a family support service, while some cases may be referred to other services. The number of referrals to the team will always be significantly greater than those on the Child Protection Notification System as the majority of referrals are not assessed as involving a child protection risk.
HSE Information Management
Since taking office last year, I have been dissatisfied with the quality and accuracy of information available from the HSE in relation to child protection as well as the HSE's capacity to provide timely and meaningful information. I am pleased to inform you that significant progress is now being made by the HSE to remedy this situation. A major information technology project, the National Child Care Information System, the NCCIS, has now gone to tender.
The NCCIS will be the central system supporting Social Work services. As a social work case management system, it will be used to record and store the case history of every child and other clients of the service. Management information will be derived automatically from the case management system. The aim of the NCCIS project is to identify and procure an easy to use technology solution to support this type of case recording and to automatically provide management information. A first step was to develop agreed and consistent definitions and business processes across all social work offices. In this regard, a national standardised business process has been rolled out nationally. This will ensure that definitions used are consistent, for example to ensure the number of recorded referrals relates to individual children and not families. I am confident that the process being led by Gordon Jeyes, the HSE National Director of Children and Families Services will deliver the information needed.
30 Deputy Ciara Conway asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will clarify the position in legislation of youth work in Ireland in terms of the merger of the vocational education committees and the establishment of the new ETBs, in view of the fact that youth work as a profession in Ireland has not been referenced in the heads of the Education and Training Boards Bill; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15168/12]
I understand that in October 2011 the General Scheme of an Education and Training Boards Bill was referred to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Jobs, Social Protection and Education. The General Scheme was also published at that time. It is also my understanding that the General Scheme has now been referred to the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel to the Government for formal drafting.
Officials of my Department will be discussing the provision of youth services in the context of the General Scheme with the Department of Education and Skills. These discussions will be taking place in the next week or so.
31 Deputy Ciara Conway asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to implement the Youth Work Act 2001 fully; the timescale for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15169/12]
My Department is currently developing an overarching Children and Youth Strategy 2012-2017 which will contain discrete, but complementary, strategies, i.e. a Youth Policy Framework and a National Children's Strategy. It is intended that the Youth Work Act, 2001 will be reviewed in the context of the development of the Youth Policy Framework.
32 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the projects or organisations her Department has engaged with since being established and the amount of funding allocated to each of these organisations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15103/12]
The Deputy will be aware that a gross funding allocation of €427 million has been made available to my Department under Vote 40 to support a range of programmes and services in respect of children and youth affairs. Details of the allocation are included in the Revised Estimates of the Public Service 2012 which was published by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in February 2012.
The Vote contains resource allocations for the following expenditure programmes:—
|
Programme Expenditure |
2011 Provisional Outturn |
2012 Estimate |
|
|
A. |
Children and Family Support Programme |
€85,227,000 |
€86,359,000 |
|
B. |
Sectoral Programmes for Children and Young People |
€316,001,000 |
€319,927,000 |
|
C. |
Policy and Legislation Programme |
€17,935,000 |
€20,694,000 |
Programme A includes allocations of (i) €26.465 million for the Family Support Agency, including funding to support 107 Family Resource Centres and some 600 voluntary and community organisations providing marriage, relationship, child and bereavement counselling services are funded each year. (ii) €9.622 million for the National Education Welfare Board which administers the Education Welfare Service and also oversees the School Completion Programme which has additional funding of €28.256 million to support the retention of children and young people in education. (iii) €17.195 million in both capital and current funding to support the Children's Detention Centres. The operation of the Children's Detention Centres is overseen by the Irish Youth Justice Service which has been incorporated into the Department of Children and Youth Affairs since January 2012.
Programme B includes allocations of (i) €175.800 million for the free Pre-School Year in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme. Some 4,300 pre-school services (95%) are participating in the scheme and almost 64,500 children (94% of those eligible) are currently benefiting from the ECCE programme. (ii) €80.998 million in both capital and current funding for the Community Childcare Subvention (CCS) and Childcare Education and Training (CETS) Programmes. Almost 1,000 community services participate in the CCS. The CCS and CETS programmes currently support some 30,000 disadvantaged and low income parents with their childcare costs. (iii) €58.306 million in both capital and current funding to support the delivery of a range of youth programmes and services by the voluntary youth work sector, including programmes and services in disadvantaged communities. These current funding programmes include the following:
the Young People's Facilities and Services Funds,
21 Local Drugs Task Force projects,
the Youth Service Grant Scheme (31 organisations),
the Special Projects for Youth Scheme (182 projects),
the local Youth Club Grant Scheme (some 1,600 clubs supported),
Youth Information Centres (32 centres),
the European Youth in Action Programme (administered by Léargas — The Exchange Bureau),
Gaisce — the President's Award, and
a number of other smaller grants to youth groups.
(iv) €1.6 million towards the Early Intervention Programme which is co-funded by my Department and Atlantic Philanthropies to examine innovative and integrated ways to improve outcomes for children.
Programme C includes allocations of (i) €6.570 million towards the National Longitudinal Study of Children in Ireland and a range of programmes linked to the National Children's Strategy; (ii) €500,000 to support community groups and organisations under the National Lottery Funding Scheme. (ii) €5.412 million to support the Adoption Authority of Ireland and the Office of the Ombudsman for Children.
33 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will provide details of any report she has been given by the task force establishing the new child and family support agency and details of any report she expects to be given by it; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15122/12]
I established the Task Force on the Child and Family Support Agency in September last, to advise my Department in regard to the necessary transition programme to establish a Child and Family Support Agency. The Task Force is chaired by Ms Maureen Lynott and it will base its work on best practice in child welfare, family support and public administration; consistent with the Government's public sector reform agenda.
In accordance with its Terms of Reference, the Task Force has been mandated to:
Propose a vision and the principles to guide operations;
Advise on the appropriate service responsibilities, and the delivery of same;
Review existing financial, staffing and corporate resources; and propose a methodology for resource allocation;
Propose an organisational design and operating child welfare and protection service model;
Prepare a detailed implementation plan;
Identify the main priorities and core relationships required;
Oversee the implementation and monitor progress, pending establishment of the Agency.
I met with the Task Force at their twelfth meeting held last month for an update on this work, which is also being advanced through two sub-groups. In the coming weeks I expect to receive the advice of the Task Force on a number of key issues which are critical to my decisions on legislative proposals regarding the new Agency and in particular, a vision for the Agency, governance arrangements and appropriate services for inclusion in the Agency.
34 Deputy Derek Keating asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs in view of the fact that the Health Information and Quality Authority is tasked with ensuring that standards are adhered to, the date on which HIQA will commence its service in the private and public crèche facilities provided in the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15180/12]
46 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs in view of the fact that the Health Information and Quality Authority is tasked with ensuring that standards are adhered to, the date on which HIQA will commence its service in the private and public crèche facilities provided in the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15179/12]
56 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs in view of the fact that the Health Information and Quality Authority is tasked with ensuring that standards are adhered to, the date on which HIQA will commence its service in the private and public crèche facilities provided in the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15178/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 34, 46 and 56 together.
The Health Information and Quality Authority may set standards and undertake investigations of pre-school services funded by the Health Service Executive under sections 38 and 39 of the Health Act 2004. However, the overwhelming majority of pre-school facilities in the State are either community-run or commercial facilities, and do not fall within the remit of the Authority. These services are regulated under the Child Care (Pre-School Services) (No. 2) Regulations 2006, as provided for under Part VII of the Child Care Act 1991.
Services providing care for children who have not yet commenced primary school are required to notify their service to the Pre-School Inspectorate of the Health Service Executive (HSE) and are subject to inspection and report by the Inspectorate on a regular basis. In December 2010, National Quality Standards for Pre-School Services were published by the then Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. These Standards provide a framework within which services are encouraged to work towards best practice and a child-centred approach in their provision of early childhood care and education to pre-school children.
My Department will continue to review and monitor the regulatory environment for pre-school services as well as supporting quality developments within the sector.
35 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs when she expects to finalise a strategy to tackle childhood obesity; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15849/12]
One of the key objectives of my Department is to collaborate with stakeholders in monitoring and promoting the physical wellbeing of children and young people and reducing inequalities. The Government has prioritised action to tackle childhood obesity. This requires a cross-departmental, cross-agency and multi-faceted response, from all relevant Government Departments and Agencies, including my own.
The Department of Health has established Special Action Group on Obesity, which includes a range of relevant stakeholders, including an Official my Department. This Group focuses on a specific range of measures including Healthy Eating Guidelines, restricting the marketing of food and drink high in fat, sugar or salt to children, nutritional labelling, calorie posting on restaurant menus, the detection and treatment of obesity and the promotion of physical exercise.
My Department has a key leadership role to play in the latter through overseeing the implementation of the national play and recreation polices. Over the past few years, significant investments have been made in play and recreational facilities and a number of important initiatives have also been launched. Among these are National Recreation Week and National Play Day, both of which are aimed at promoting play and recreation and encouraging children and young people to lead less sedentary lifestyles. More recently, a Local Authority Play and Recreation Network was established. This Network brings together (for the first time) relevant staff from the local authority sector who are involved in the provision of play and recreation services to local communities. A key initial aim of this Network will be to examine the most effective means of promoting existing facilities to the public. While the prevention of obesity is not the sole focus of the Network, inevitably its work feeds in to the national policy agenda in this area.
Other cross-agency or cross-government initiatives include the HSE's ‘Little Steps' Campaign and ‘Get Ireland Active' website, the Department of Education and Skills ‘Active School Flag Campaign' and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine ‘Food Dude Programme'. I also understand the Department of Environment, Communities and Local Government are giving active consideration to including policies on promoting healthier and more child-friendly communities, including regulating the proliferation of fast-food outlets, as part of new national planning guidance to be published next year.
Alone no single initiative can tackle the issue of childhood obesity, but combined, they should make a difference. My Department has also published important research on overweight and obesity among children in Ireland. This research, which is drawn from Growing Up in Ireland, the National Longitudinal Study of Children can provide further guidance on where we should continue to focus our efforts.
36 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she plans to amend section 246 of the Child Care Act to explicitly prohibit corporal punishment in the home. [15102/12]
41 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if her attention has been drawn to a recommendation to prohibit explicitly any form of corporal punishment in the family and to continue developing awareness raising and education for parents and for the public in general, that was made to Ireland during the UN universal periodic review process; her plans to implement this recommendation which the State has partially accepted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15101/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 36 and 41 together.
My Department is aware of the various recommendations from the universal periodic review process and specifically in relation to this matter where the State has agreed to ‘examine' the issue of prohibiting Corporal Punishment in the home setting. As the Deputy will be aware, recent research on ‘parental styles and disciplines' indicated that the practice of corporal punishment in Ireland has declined significantly in recent years with almost 90% of parents now opting for alternative means of discipline. In addition recent research from the longitudinal study of children in Ireland shows that the great majority of parents do not use smacking as a form of discipline. The most frequently used method of discipline was discussing/explaining why the behaviour was wrong and this discipline strategy was used by almost ninety percent of mothers (88%). Less than one percent (0.5%) of mothers reporting smacking their children "regularly or always".
One important approach is to support parents with advice and guidance. I am aware that a very wide range of parenting courses are available across the State at the present time which are delivered by various groups. Many of these courses address the issue of using alternative means of discipline and may have played a part in contributing to the significant decline in the prevalence of corporal punishment in the home setting in recent years. A review of these courses (many of which are in receipt of public funding) with a view to ensuring their effectiveness and standardising their content is a first step. The focus should be on supporting an understanding of the best forms of discipline to underpin positive parenting.
Such positive parenting initiatives are already the subject of evaluation by my Department under the Prevention and Early Intervention and related innovative practice projects. These evaluations will aid my understanding and support policy and funding decisions by my Department, the HSE Child and Family Services and other agencies into the future.
I should also emphasise that Section 246 of the Children's Act 2001 already provides very clear legal deterrents to the use of excessive physical discipline within the home setting or otherwise. Section 246(i) states as follows: 246.—(1) It shall be an offence for any person who has the custody, charge or care of a child wilfully to assault, ill-treat, neglect, abandon or expose the child, or cause or procure or allow the child to be assaulted, ill-treated, neglected, abandoned or exposed, in a manner likely to cause unnecessary suffering or injury to the child’s health or seriously to affect his or her well-being.
A common law defence of reasonable chastisement does apply but this has not prevented the Irish courts from handing down severe sentences in cases where parents have been accused and convicted of assault or use of excessive or unreasonable force. The practice of corporal punishment has been specifically prohibited in all professional care settings in recent years.
There are no immediate planes to amend section 246 but this has not been ruled out. This is one of the options open to me in examining this complex issue and it will be considered along with a range of other options in this regard in due course.
37 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the date on which she will introduce legislation to place the Children First guidelines on a statutory basis. [15120/12]
43 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs when she expects to place the Children First guidelines on a statutory footing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15860/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 43 together.
In July 2011, I launched the revised Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children. The Guidance deals with the recognition, reporting and management of child safety concerns.
The revised guidance replaces the original version of Children First which was first published in 1999. The HSE as the statutory body responsible for promoting the welfare of children has in place a network of personnel to provide training, information and advice on the implementation of Children First. The HSE is currently providing a programme of information and training on the new Guidance across the country. This includes the publication of its Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook which will facilitate implementation of the Children First Guidance and provide for greater consistency in child protection practice throughout the HSE.
The Government has committed, as a priority, to the introduction of legislation to underpin Children First. My Department has been working intensively to ensure the policy that is being developed will serve to protect children. I have consulted with a high level group of experts in the field, and reviewed legislation and practice internationally.
The policy framework to implement the decision by Government to put ‘Children First' on a statutory footing has been developed and draft heads have been provided to the Attorney General's office for her advices this week. Subject to her advice it is my intention to bring the General Scheme of the Bill to the Oireachtas Committee for Health and Children for its consideration.
The framework focusses on the promotion and wellbeing of children generally; the provision of safe services for children; cooperation amongst professionals and organisations where children are at risk of neglect and abuse and making key individuals responsible for reporting child abuse, in line with thresholds, that is known to them. The latter objective is aimed at removing ambivalence, reluctance or refusal by people and organisations in positions of trust and authority to report child abuse and cooperate with the relevant authorities. Work on developing the Heads of Bill is also underway.
The policy also takes account of the other complementary legislative proposals to strengthen child protection, namely, the National Vetting Bureau Bill and the Criminal Justice (Withholding Information on Crimes Against Children and Intellectually Disabled Persons) Bill. I have also taken the opportunity to consult informally with a number of experts in relation to the development of the policy in this area.
I intend that the legislation will reflect a broad based approach to compliance with obligations extending beyond reporting to one of safeguarding children at risk. The objective will be to ensure the greater protection of children by underpinning safe practices in organisations that provide care, education and other services to children.
38 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the date on which she will introduce a national policy on special care units; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15108/12]
39 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans for development of special care units; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15110/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 39 together.
Special care involves the detention of a child under a high court order, for his or her own welfare and protection in a special care unit with on site educational and therapeutic supports. A special care unit provides secure residential service to children and young people whose behaviour is deemed to pose a risk to themselves or others and are in need of specialised targeted intervention. The detention of a child in a special care unit is considered as a last resort, for as short a time as possible, and when other forms of residential or community care are considered to be unsuitable. There are three designated special care units in the country — Ballydowd Young Peoples Centre (Dublin), Gleann Alainn (Cork) and Coovagh House (Limerick), which are operated by the HSE under a single national governance arrangement.
The HSE National High Support and Special Care Services Service Improvement Plan 2011-2014 outlines the proposed improvements in the management, development, provision and delivery of national high support and special care services. A number of key objectives from this Plan have been prioritised in the 2012 Business Plan. The service will seek to support and enhance social care and clinical governance, while sustaining the overall corporate administrative and operational governance. The Service also proposes to support and enhance the development of the integrated model of care, the enhanced outreach programme and the admissions and discharges policy and procedure project. These measures aim to ensure sustainable improvements during 2012. It is recognised that there will be challenges in sustaining improvements and developing new initiatives and change programmes within allocated resources. My officials liaise on an ongoing basis with Mr Gordon Jeyes and his team on this specific issue.
40 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of agency staff currently employed in each special care unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15109/12]
I am advised by the HSE that there were 22 agency staff employed by the three special care units on 15 March 2012. Nine agency staff were employed in Ballydowd Special Care Unit and six were employed in Gleann Alainn. Prior to closure for its refurbishment, there were seven agency staff employed in Coovagh House. The agency staff and young people from Coovagh House transferred to Ballydowd (2 staff) and Gleann Alainn (5 staff).
44 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the reason in March of this year that the Health Service Executive reported having 3,769 foster carers, only 3,138 of whom were approved by the Foster Care Panel under Part III of the Child Care (Placement of Children in Foster Care) Regulations 1995; the reason for this disparity; her views on whether this is an adequate level of care to provide to children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15127/12]
Under the Child Care Act, 1991(as amended) the Health Service Executive (HSE) has a statutory duty to promote the welfare of children who are not receiving adequate care and protection. If a child is in need of care and protection and is unlikely to receive it at home, the HSE has a duty to ensure they receive appropriate care. The majority of children in care are in foster care.
There are a number of different types of foster care:
Relative foster care is when another family member, e.g. a grandparent, aunt, uncle, adult sister/brother, or family friend becomes the foster parent of the child. In this situation, the relative foster carer is assessed by the HSE.
Day foster care is an alternative form of care, which provides a support system in the community. The child is spared the upset of separation from their family, can go home each evening, yet benefit from the additional care offered in the foster home. There is minimal disruption to family life, while the parents can obtain practical help, advice and support from the foster parents.
Short term foster care provides temporary care for a child separated from their birth family. Being short term the child will, after a period, move back to their family or move on to a long term family or an adoptive family.
Long term foster care is needed for children who are unlikely to be able to live with their birth family, and who, for a variety of reasons cannot be adopted. Many children in long term care become so much part of their foster family that they continue to live with them until their independence, just as the birth children of the foster family do.
Respite foster care is provided by some foster carers to provide a break for a child’s family or another foster family.
Emergency foster care is provided for children who need care in a crisis situation with no advance notice. The children may be coming into care from their own home or from another placement.
There are also foster carers for children with special needs.
General Foster Care
Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer applies to the fostering team in their local social work department. Prospective foster carers or applicants undergo an assessment and training process to establish their suitability and competence as future foster carers. The assessment procedure is carried out by a social worker from the fostering team and will include Garda vetting, a medical assessment, personal interviews in the applicant's home and if the applicant(s) have children, the social worker will also talk to them about being part of a foster family. Garda vetting includes adult children and extended family members residing in the home. The applicant(s) will also be asked to provide references who will be interviewed by the social worker as part of the assessment process. The social worker will prepare a report based on discussions with the applicant(s), their family, the referees and the medical report. This report will be shared with the applicant(s) and the applicant(s) views will be represented. This report is then presented to the foster care committee (or Foster Care panel) for approval, including a recommendation as to the age of the child and type of foster care suitable to the applicant(s). It should be noted that some foster carers may have gone through the assessment and training stage with a recommendation for approval but the application may not have been formally approved by the foster care committee.
Relative Foster Care
When a child is being placed in foster care, the suitability of a placement with relatives is explored in the first instance. Where the HSE is satisfied that an immediate placement with relatives is in the interests of the child, such placement may occur before full approval of the committee is in place. Such emergency placements are provided for in the regulations. Prior to placement, the relative is assessed by a principal social worker, including early garda vetting. This is followed by a full assessment and approval by the foster care committee as outlined above.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) compiles and publishes monthly performance reports which include statistics in relation to children in foster care. Information in relation to the number of foster carers is published on a quarterly basis and the HSE reported that there were 3,769 foster carers, of whom 3,138 were approved by the Foster Care panel under Part III of the Child Care (Placement of Children in Foster Care) regulations, 1995, at the end of December 2011. Data for Galway is not included in these figures.
I am informed by the HSE that 85.6% of the unapproved foster carers (540 foster carers) were relatives of the young people in foster care. In these cases, an initial assessment is completed, followed by the full assessment and approval process as above.
45 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to introduce a new holistic mechanism involving all the relevant welfare, health, mental health and educational agencies to address the needs of young adults between 15 and 18 years in crisis situations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15173/12]
My Department is developing a new strategy for children and young people. It will build on Our Children — Their Lives, Ireland’s first children’s strategy which was published in 2000 and it will cover the period from 2012 to 2017.
The new children and young people's policy framework is being developed in a holistic way to comprehend the continuum of the lifecourse from infancy, through early and middle childhood, to adolescence through to early adulthood, in keeping with my Department's responsibilities for children and young people. It will be the overarching framework under which policy and services for children and young people will be developed and implemented in the State.
The views of a wide range of interests including children themselves will shape the development of the children and young people's policy framework over the next six months. It will be informed by the results of a consultation, in 2011, in which almost 67,000 children and young people throughout the country participated; the advice of the National Children's Advisory Council which comprises representatives of a range of organisations, both statutory and non statutory that work with children and young people, and the views of the National Children's Strategy Implementation Group which includes nominees of Government departments and state agencies that develop policies and deliver services for children and young people.
The Programme for Government commits to fundamentally reforming the delivery of child protection services by removing child welfare and protection from the HSE and creating a dedicated Child Welfare and Protection Agency, reforming the model of service delivery, and improving accountability to the Dáil. The Task Force which I established to advise my Department regarding the necessary transition programme to establish the Agency is proceeding with its work. Under its terms of reference, the Task Force will advise as to appropriate service responsibilities for the Agency from amongst those within the HSE that relate to children and family services or from within the relevant operational responsibilities of my Department or its agencies.
The advices to be provided by the Task Force will inform my consideration of proposals to Government regarding the establishment of the Agency on a statutory basis in early 2013.
Question No. 46 answered with Question No. 34.
47 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to develop guidelines for multi-agency involvement with families and children. [15121/12]
My Department is leading an initiative to develop and implement a planning model for local interagency working to improve outcomes for children. This is known as the Working Together for Children initiative. The purpose of this initiative is to work towards better developmental outcomes for children through more effective integration of policies and services in particular through the Children’s Services Committees at local level.
Children's Services Committees bring together a diverse group of agencies in local county areas to engage in joint planning of services for children. These include representatives from the HSE, local authorities, An Garda Síochána, VECs, National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals, Irish Primary Principals Network, NEWB, and other organisations who provide services to children and young people. There are 10 in place with an additional 6 in the preparatory stage of set up. My objective is to have 20 committees by the end of 2012.
My Department has developed a number of guidance supports for the Children's Services Committees to assist in their development. These include a toolkit which provides advice on the composition of a committee, membership, roles and information and guidance on how to develop a children and young people's plan for their area. A Governance Framework deals with matters such as national and local governance structures and reporting arrangements.
The initiative is overseen by the National Children's Strategy Implementation Group which is responsible for developing Children's Services Committees as a national initiative and for providing guidance to the committees on issues that arise in relation to effective collaborative working at local level in support of children and young people's better outcomes. Information on the toolkit and other supports for the committees and the work of the National Children's Strategy Implementation Group is available on my department's website, www.dcya.gov.ie.
48 Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the action she has taken to date and the action she plans to take in order to address the difficulties that prospective parents currently engaged in the international adoption process are encountering with the Adoption Authority of Ireland due to both the level of applications received by the authority and the fact that the board of the AAI sits only every second week; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15132/12]
The Adoption Act, 2010, which was commenced on 1st November 2010, coincided with Ireland's formal ratification of the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption. The purpose of the Adoption Act, 2010, is to improve standards in both domestic and intercountry adoption.
The Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI) is an independent statutory body charged with implementing the Adoption Act, 2010. The Authority has responsibility for the direct operational implementation of legislation and Government policy. It has a quasi-judicial role and is independent in its decision-making functions. In this regard the Authority's functions encompass a wide range of responsibilities including:
the issuing of declarations of eligibility and suitability to adopt under Section 40 of the Act, following the examination of all relevant supporting materials;
the issuing of transitional declarations of eligibility and suitability to adopt, under Section 63 of the Act, to applicants who had initiated the adoption process under previous legislation whose adoption was not effected but still in progress on the day of commencement of the new Act;
the recognition of intercountry adoptions effected outside the State, having regard to the circumstances pertaining in each individual case, under Section 57 of the Act;
the conversion and recognition of certain Hague Convention adoptions that do not have the effect of terminating a pre-existing legal parent-child relationship under Section 68 and 69 of the Act.
In addition to the above the Authority has responsibility for the management of the various stages of the intercountry adoption process including the forwarding of applicant adoption packs under Article 15 of the Hague Convention, the receipt of the proposed match under Article 16 and the approval of the match under Article 17 (which provides that a child may be placed with the prospective adoptive parents). The issuing of an Article 23 certificate by the country of origin is the confirmation process between contracting States that the adoption has been made in accordance with the Hague convention. The AAI has no role in this process but relies on the certificate as part of the recognition process under Hague.
In considering matters relating to intercountry adoption the Authority must satisfy itself that the adoption complies with the terms and conditions of the 1993 Hague Convention, which is a co-operative agreement drawn up to allow countries to mutually support one another in protecting the best interests of children in the intercountry adoption process. It is designed in such a way as to allow for mirrored mechanisms and structures to mutually assure countries of the safety and standard of intercountry adoptions in those countries. The AAI has been extremely proactive in developing relationships with their counterparts around the world and this will continue. The building of such relationships will help to bring greater clarity to the intercountry adoption process generally, including the timescales involved for adopting from different countries.
It is a matter for the Authority to determine how best to structure its operations to perform its functions. The Adoption Act, 2010, states that the "Authority shall hold as many meetings as are necessary for performing its functions but shall hold at least 12 meetings a year." The Board currently meets fortnightly. This meeting schedule place an onerous workload on the Board members of the AAI and the Board meets more frequently than almost any other State Board.
My Department is currently reviewing the staffing levels of the AAI in the context of the Employment Control Framework for the public sector and the recent public service retirements. A new CEO has recently been appointed to the Authority and this appointment is key to progressing very important issues regarding the overall resourcing of the Authority. It should be noted in this context that the AAI has been allocated €3.3m in State funding this year in recognition of the new responsibilities set out in the Adoption Act, 2010. This is an increase of some 35% of the level of funding provided in 2011.
50 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of children placed in the care system during each of the past five years due to parents’ inability to cope financially; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15106/12]
Under the Child Care Act 1991 children should, in the first instance, be supported to remain with their families. Children should only be taken into care where the HSE has identified abuse or the risk of abuse, including neglect that cannot be prevented or resolved without the child being received into care.
The HSE has informed me that in 2010 1,251 children were admitted to care due to various factors resulting in a parental inability to cope. In the main these children are received into care on the voluntary request of their parent/s.
The various factors which can result in parental inability to cope include: physical or mental health problems, disability, drug or alcohol addiction problems, and in some cases financial difficulties. However, a parental inability to cope financially is on its own not a reason for a child to come into care. Family support services work with parents where there are difficulties with budget management to support them provide a stable family situation for their children.
My officials met with the Department of Social Protection in September of last year, at which this matter was discussed across a broader agenda. It was agreed that there should be no case in which children enter the care system due to financial need rather than cases of neglect, abuse or the risk of abuse. If any such cases are identified by the HSE, my officials will work with the Department of Social Protection and the HSE to ensure that children are only received into care on the basis of risk to their safety and welfare that cannot be alleviated by financial support alone.
53 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the date on which she will publish revised wording for a referendum on children’s rights. [15104/12]
Since taking office, both myself and officials of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs have had a very considerable number of meetings and communications with the Attorney General and her officials to progress this commitment. A draft wording is being prepared by the Office of the Attorney General in co-operation with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs. We are jointly focused on ensuring that the proposed Referendum reflects the deliberations and conclusions of the Joint Committee and the commitment in the Programme for Government.
The Referendum on Children's Rights is a Programme for Government priority. The Government is satisfied that the nature of this referendum is such that it will be a stand-alone matter, to allow for a full debate on the issue and so that people clearly understand the facts. The referendum wording will be along the lines of that proposed by the All-Party Joint Committee on the Constitutional Amendment on Children (JCCAC). From the outset of deliberations in relation to the constitutional amendment on children's rights the need for all party consensus on this topic was highlighted. As a member of the JCCAC I can attest to the level of all party co-operation afforded the then Government in the work of the Committee.
It is my intention to consult with parties by way of briefings as the output of the deliberations emerges. I also envisage that the issue will be considered by the Joint Committee on Health, Children and Youth Affairs. It is my intention to seek approval from Government for the proposed wording, with a view to holding the referendum this year. A decision on the holding of the referendum on children's rights will be mindful of the need to have a referendum in relation to the fiscal compact and that a referendum in relation to the abolition of the Seanad is also a Government commitment.
54 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she has met with the Department of Health on the issue of expanding the Health Information and Quality Authority remit to include oversight of the Health Services Executive’s child protection services; and the date on which the HIQA remit will be expanded accordingly. [15126/12]
The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) was established under the Health Act, 2007 and replaced the Social Services Inspectorate. HIQA is an independent authority responsible for driving quality, safety and accountability in residential services for children, older people and people with disabilities in Ireland. HIQA develops standards, monitors compliance with standards and carries out investigations where they believe there are reasonable grounds to do so. HIQA inspects children's residential centres, special care units and foster care settings against the National Standards for Children's Residential Centres, National Standards for Special Care Units and the National Standards for Foster Care. HIQA publishes their inspection reports on their website.
In July 2010, the Government decided to prioritise the inspection of child protection by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA). These inspections will be undertaken against standards to be developed by HIQA as provided for under Section 8 of the Health Act 2007. HIQA commenced work on drafting National Standards for the Protection and Welfare of Children and convened a Standards Advisory Group to advise on their development. The Advisory Group, which comprises a wide representation of people from the health and social care sector met several times and continues to advise HIQA on the draft standards. My department has also been involved in advising HIQA. I understand that HIQA is to commence the public consultation on the draft standards today. The draft standards will then be amended based on feedback received from the consultation process and the final draft standards will be forwarded to me for approval. It is expected that the first inspections by HIQA based on the standards for child protection will take place by the end of the year.
55 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of children who are currently being provided with specialist care overseas because the State does not have the facilities to provide them with the care needed; the names and locations of each of these overseas units; the cost of sending each child to this facility; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15111/12]
Under the Child Care Act, 1991, the Health Service Executive has a duty to promote the welfare of children who are not receiving adequate care or protection. The policy of the HSE is to place children in care settings, preferably in foster care, as close as possible to their home and community. The vast majority of children in care are in foster care and residential care.
Some children have highly specialised needs arising from severe behaviour difficulties, in some cases as a result of injury, accident or disability or in others due to their childhood experiences. The care needs of these children are generally met by directly provided services or services commissioned by the HSE within Ireland. From time to time the HSE places children in single residential placements with specialised therapeutic inputs from child psychiatry and psychology to meet the needs of the children. There are three designated special care units in the country: Ballydowd in Dublin, Glenn Álainn in Cork and Coovagh House in Limerick where children are detained on order of the high court for their own safety.
In addition, there are two designated national High Support Units at Crannog Nua, Portrane in north County Dublin and Rath na nÓg in Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan. These units provide, through on site education, higher staff ratios and therapeutic inputs an individualised programme of support for children and young people with exceptional needs through the provision of a time-limited, therapeutic intervention in a secure or non-secure environment as appropriate. The HSE has developed a business plan for the delivery of a national Special Care Services with a particular focus on improving governance and development and innovation. The business plan highlights the importance of improving the model of service delivery to develop a service that can cater for the needs of these most vulnerable and challenging children.
For a small number of children, the HSE is on occasion, required to make arrangements for the placement of children in care and treatment facilities outside of the State, primarily in the UK, to allow for access to an individually tailored mix of psychiatric treatment, care and therapeutic services not available in this country. This is done on as infrequent a basis as possible and only where such placement is considered to be in the best interest of the child. I should emphasise that the referral of persons abroad for specialised therapeutic interventions is an established feature within our health and social care system and decisions in each case are made in the best interests of the individual. The level of requirement for these services is closely monitored by the National Director and my officials.
I am advised by the HSE that there were 4 young people detained in secure accommodation in Scotland, 1 in secure accommodation in England, and 2 in a Mental Health facility in England as of 13 March 2012. It is considered that it would be inappropriate to provide further details regarding the names and locations of these placements. The HSE ensure that these placements are suitable and the child's social worker visits regularly, and makes arrangements for family or carers of the child to also visit. The units in which the children are placed are inspected and regulated by their national authorities and the HSE is attentive to the standards of care delivered in these specialised units.
57 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans for developing and improving a national child care service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15112/12]
The Government currently supports the provision of early childhood care and education through three support programmes, the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme, the Community Childcare Subvention (CCS) programme, and the Childcare Education and Training Support (CETS) programme. These programmes are implemented by my Department.
The ECCE programme was introduced in January 2010 and provides a free pre-school year to all eligible children in the year before commencing primary school. Almost every pre-school service in the State is participating in the programme, ensuring it is available to children in all areas. About 66,000 children, that is approximately 95% of the eligible cohort, are availing of the free pre-school provision at this time. In line with the Programme for Government, my Department has made a significant commitment to maintaining the universal free pre-school year and to developing early childhood care and education as resources allow. In this context the funding for the pre-school year has been increased from €166 million in 2011 to €175.8 million in 2012 to cater for changing demographics, and provide for the increased number of children in the relevant age cohort.
It is also my objective to incrementally develop the ECCE programme over the term of this Government as resources permit. A key element of this is the implementation of the Workforce Development Plan by the Early Education Policy Unit of the Department of Education and Skills, which is co-located in my Department. The Workforce Development Plan identified different distinct groups including new entrants to the workforce who wish to become appropriately qualified for specific occupational roles and responsibilities, and unqualified practitioners in the current workforce who want to achieve a Level 5 award. For new entrants to the workforce the publication of Common Award Standards at NFQ Levels 4, 5 and 6 is a welcome development.
Programmes of learning developed to meet these new award standards will incorporate national practice frameworks and will reflect national policy objectives, thereby ensuring that graduates of these programmes are fully prepared to enter the workforce. Training providers have begun to develop new programmes to meet these award standards and, subject to validation by FETAC, the first of these, the FETAC Level 5 Major Award in Early Childhood Care and Education, will come on stream shortly through the VECs. For unqualified practitioners in the current workforce who want to achieve a Level 5 Award, my Department part-subsidises an on-line course which was developed by one of the Voluntary Childcare Organisations.
Officials from my Department worked closely with the Department of Education and Skills in the development of the National Literacy and Numeracy Strategy, and I welcome the recognition of the role of early childhood care and education. The Strategy was formally launched by my colleague, the Minister for Education and Skills, last year. My Department is committed to incentivising the early years sector to acquire additional skills in oral language competency development for young children once this minimum qualification requirements of the ECCE programme have been met.
The CCS programme supports community-based childcare services by enabling them to provide childcare at reduced rates to disadvantaged and low income families. These not-for-profit facilities provide childcare at cost price with reductions to qualifying parents based on the level of subvention they are entitled to under the programme.
The CETS programme was introduced in September 2010. Under the CETS programme, funding is provided by my Department to participating childcare services in return for the provision of free childcare places to qualifying students and trainees. The eligibility criteria under which students and trainees qualify under the programme is determined by FÁS and the VECs. Approximately 2,800 full time equivalent childcare places are currently funded under the programme.
I am pleased that all three support programmes are being retained despite the ongoing need to reduce Government expenditure. While there has been some revision to payment rates and subvention levels I am satisfied that the programmes are being implemented in a way which generates efficiencies and improvements in outcomes, within available resources.
In December 2011, the Government announced a new Capital Funding Programme for childcare facilities. This grant will provide capital funding of €6m this year to both community and private childcare providers currently participating in one or more of the childcare programmes The capital grant, which provides funding of up to €50,000 for maintenance works, is designed to ensure that childcare facilities are in a position to continue in the future to deliver quality care and education as required under the programmes.
Future developments relating to early years care and education will be considered during preparation of the new National Early Years Strategy 2012. This Strategy will be developed during 2012 and will cover a range of issues affecting children in their first years of life.
58 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will report on the national audit of child neglect cases; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15172/12]
The Report into the Roscommon case was published by the HSE on 27th October 2010. Since its publication the HSE has given assurances that practice in assessing and responding to child welfare and protection concerns is being applied to the necessary standard across all regions. The HSE has already stated that it is committed to learning from this and other reports to ensure that services are strengthened to help protect children to the greatest extent possible.
One of the Recommendations from the Inquiry was for a National Audit of Neglect Cases to be completed, commencing with Roscommon. The HSE in order to progress this recommendation had engaged the services of an external consultant to assist the HSE to devise a method of audit that would be applied nationally. The consultant has completed a Review of Practice and Audit of the Management of Cases of Neglect in Roscommon which commenced in September 2010, and has highlighted both strengths and challenges. Positive outcomes included:
Well established multidisciplinary arrangements and organisational structures which facilitated teamwork and communication,
Initial assessments routinely completed,
An emphasis on direct work with children and young persons and commitment to listening to children and ensuring their voices were heard.
The Review found that in a majority of the cases, staff and managers displayed a commitment to early assessment of need and provided a range of supports to assist children and families, resulting in improved parenting capacity and better outcomes for children. The Review concluded that the challenges involved are similar throughout Ireland and the United Kingdom including the need for more authoritative social work, senior managers reviewing and auditing files, national supervision policy implementation and establishing thresholds for legal intervention in cases.
A Review of Progress following Audit was undertaken after three months and again this had many positive outcomes. Achievements included:
The recommendations of the Inquiry Report and the Review of Practice and Management of Neglect are being implemented via an Interdisciplinary Child Care Steering group.
A monthly child care meeting chaired by the General Manager considers specific developments within the Child Care Service, including budgetary and resourcing issues, waiting lists and individual cases which require to be notified to senior management.
Family Support Services have been streamlined to include a single point of entry and is being realigned with new social work boundaries.
The other pilot areas were Waterford and Dublin South East. The process in February 2011 in Waterford and Dublin South East in May 2011. In each area it was determined that a sample 30 cases would be reviewed in each audit. The HSE intends to prepare a composite report of the 3 pilots in order to maximise the learning. The methodology used in these pilot projects has proven to be effective and is now available to managers nation-wide to replicate the process. Furthermore it is currently being adapted for national utilisation alongside additional national auditing strategies including case file reviews and analysis of referrals to social work services.
59 Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will detail her involvement in a roll-out of programmes for children in disadvantaged areas; the level of investment that will be made in this; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15115/12]
As Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, improving children's outcomes is my primary objective. Early childhood care and education programmes, in particular those that are aimed at low income families, are priorities to enhance children's opportunities for social and educational development, to support parents and to help to break the inter-generational cycle of disadvantage. The network of 107 family resource centres that are funded by the Family Support Agency, under the remit of my Department have an important role in this regard.
This year some 66,000 children throughout the country will benefit from the free preschool year in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme, while some 26,000 children, in low income households, will benefit under the Community Childcare Subvention (CCS) programme, which provides places in a range of childcare settings in local communities. Under the Childcare Education and Training Support (CETS) programme, a further 2,800 places are available for children of parents in training programmes. In 2012, some €230 million in all will be provided by my Department for these schemes designed to support young children's social and educational development.
My Department also supports the delivery of a range of youth work programmes and services, including programmes for young people living in disadvantaged communities. In 2012, funding of €56.6 million will be invested in provision for youth. The programmes are delivered by the voluntary youth work sector. They include ‘out of school' projects in non formal education settings and projects which aim to divert ‘at risk' young people in disadvantaged areas from the dangers of substance misuse, as well as the provision of community centres, youth facilities and sports clubs which are used by some 535,000 young people throughout the country.
The National Educational Welfare Board, under the remit of my Department, as part of its responsibilities is charged with developing the School Completion Programme and the Home School Community Liaison Scheme to address the needs of children who may experience difficulties in fully participating in education. These programmes and the results of pilot projects to enhance children's development in Tallaght, Northside and Ballymun, which are jointly funded by my Department with a philanthropic organisation, will inform the Government's plans to develop a new area based approach to child poverty. My priority, as Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, is to enhance the role of early intervention and support programmes for the most vulnerable children and their families in the context of the new Child and Family Support Agency.
60 Deputy Ciara Conway asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will confirm the number of persons currently on the Irish overseas election observation panel; if he will confirm if the panel is still open, and if not when it is expected to be reopened; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15961/12]
The Government believes that international election monitoring missions have an important role to play in the promotion of human rights and democracy. Irish Aid in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade maintains a roster of observers for election monitoring missions. We aim to ensure that, when requested, Ireland is represented at an appropriate level in international observation missions for elections and constitutional referendums. Irish observers participate primarily in missions organised by the European Union and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), but have also been involved in missions organised by the Council of Europe, the United Nations and the Carter Centre.
There are currently 300 people on the Department's Election Observation Roster. In 2011, 61 observers from the roster participated on 15 missions organised by the EU and the OSCE. The roster is currently not open for new members. However, I am aware of interest in the roster and of the need to identify new members with specific skills, especially language skills. I have asked officials to review the working of the roster and to prepare proposals over the coming weeks on future membership.
61 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, in line with the commitments contained in the Good Friday Agreement and the identified and proven need for continued supports for political ex-prisoners, and given their inclusion as a specific target group in previous rounds of funding, his views that any PEACE IV will continue to recognise political ex-prisoners as a specific target group. [16013/12]
While the Government warmly supports a PEACE IV programme, the relevant budgetary discussions in Brussels regarding a new Multiannual Financial Framework are still at an early stage. It is too soon to go into any detail on the outcome of such discussions. The Government continues to place importance on the reintegration of ex-prisoners into society.
62 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance if he will agree that EU Commission-ECB-EU Council treatment of programme countries and non-programme countries in relation to general Government budget deficits and public expenditure is fundamentally different and if he has raised the issue at ECOFIN meetings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15983/12]
All EU Member States that are currently subject to the excessive deficit procedure are required to correct their public deficits within an agreed timeframe, irrespective of whether or not they are in a programme of external financial assistance. As the deputy will be aware, Ireland must correct its excessive deficit — that is reduce to below 3 per cent of GDP — by 2015, and the Government has outlined its medium term strategy in order to achieve this.
63 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance his views that there will be an agreement on restructuring of promissory notes before 31 March 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15984/12]
As the Deputy is aware the Government is committed to reviewing the approach to the Promissory Notes with a view to reducing the overall cost to the State. The Troika have agreed to engage in a process with Irish Officials to produce a common paper which will consider all options for restructuring the notes in terms of the source of funding, the duration of the notes, the interest rate etc. In tandem with this review, the European authorities have opened a discussion on how best the Irish banking system and the Irish State can benefit from having further improvements to certain elements of the banking sector. The overall purpose would be to improve the position of the banks in which the State has a major investment.
Under the terms of the Promissory Note the State has to make cash payments of €3.06 billion each year to IBRC. The discussions with the European authorities on the general issue continue but we are now in discussion with the EU authorities, and principally with the ECB, on the basis that the €3.06 billion cash instalment due from the Minister to IBRC on 31 March 2012 could be settled by the delivery of a long term Irish Government Bond. The details of the arrangement have still to be worked out.
64 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance if he is examining any proposals for 100-year bonds and other very long-term financial instruments in respect of market re-entry from 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15985/12]
While the National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) is not currently examining any specific proposal for 100-year bonds, it is keeping all of its options open with regard to its planned gradual re-entry to international capital markets. It is worth bearing in mind that, generally speaking, longer-term debt attracts higher interest rates so it is important to have in place an appropriate balance between short, medium and longer-term debt.
At present there are ten benchmark Irish Government bonds with maturities extending across the yield curve out to 2025. Ireland's longest dated maturities under the EU/IMF Programme are due for repayment in 2042.
65 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance if he continues to raise the issue of Eurobonds at ECOFIN and bilateral meetings with EU states in the context of a potential key piece of the architecture of the euro; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15986/12]
On 23 November 2011, the European Commission published a Green Paper on Stability Bonds which set out three main options: the full substitution by Stability Bond issuance of national issuance, with joint and several guarantees; the partial substitution by Stability Bond issuance of national issuance, with joint and several guarantees; and the partial substitution by Stability Bond issuance of national issuance, with several but not joint guarantees. The objective of the Green Paper is to have a broad debate on the issues raised. The paper sets out the likely effects of each of these approaches on Member States' funding costs, European financial integration, financial market stability and the global attractiveness of EU financial markets. It also considers the risks of moral hazard posed by each approach, as well as its implications with regard to Treaty change. Stability Bonds are seen by some as a potentially highly effective long-term response to the sovereign debt crisis; however there are those that are concerned that Stability Bonds would remove the market incentive for fiscal discipline and encourage moral hazard. The Commission has emphasised the fact that any move towards introducing Stability Bonds would only be feasible and desirable if there were a simultaneous strengthening of budgetary discipline. The extent of this strengthening needs to correspond to the ambition of the approach chosen.
Following ECOFIN on 30 November 2011 the European Commission said it would carry out further analysis on this issue and revert in due course to Council. This is very much the start of a process. Some of the options identified in the Green Paper would require Treaty changes.
This is a very complex issue that requires ongoing in-depth analysis of all the implications. Ireland will play a full and constructive part in this process.
66 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance if Dáil Eireann could receive all available technical information from his Department in relation to the debt brake concept in order to assist constituents and the whole community in relation to the forthcoming fiscal compact treaty referendum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15987/12]
In relation to the so-called "debt-brake", I assume the Deputy is referring to the automatic correction mechanism that contracting parties to the Treaty on Stability, Coordination and Governance in the Economic and Monetary Union are required to put in national legislation. This automatic correction mechanism is to be based on a common set of principles to be proposed by the European Commission, concerning in particular the nature, size and time-frame of the corrective action to be undertaken. The automatic correction is to be triggered in the event of a significant observed deviation from the country-specific medium-term budgetary objective (MTBO) or the adjustment path towards this MTBO. The Commission has not yet come forward with a set of detailed principles in this regard.
The Deputy will be aware that the fiscal compact contained in this Treaty requires contracting parties to inter alia apply fiscal rules governing balanced budgets over the economic cycle and the pace of reduction in the debt-to-GDP ratio in the event that this exceeds 60 per cent. My Department is currently drafting a Fiscal Responsibility Bill that will cover these requirements and it is intended that this Bill be published ahead of the forthcoming referendum.
Finally, some of the more technical issues associated with fiscal surveillance in the EU are outlined in a Commission document entitled Specifications on the implementation of the Stability and Growth Pact and Guidelines on the format and content of Stability and Convergence Programmes, which may be helpful in this respect and is available on the Commission's website.
67 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that the provisions of the National Asset Management Agency Act, set out under section 225, which stipulate that any loss made by NAMA over its operating lifetime will be recouped from the so-called participating institutions, are still in effect; and if he will confirm that any eventual NAMA loss will be recouped from those institutions including AIB and Bank of Ireland. [16004/12]
I can confirm that section 225 of the NAMA Act 2009 remains in effect. However, this provision would only come into operation in the event of underlying losses made by NAMA. The section does not operate until the conclusion of NAMA's operations and the overall position of the taxpayer will be taken into account when considering the application of any surcharge. Any decision will be made only after NAMA have prepared a report setting out the aggregate profits and losses of NAMA over the period of its operation. Surcharges would apply to all participating institutions in proportion to the book value of assets acquired from them as a proportion of the total book value of acquired bank assets.
68 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that the only commitment with respect to the National Asset Management Agency, NAMA, plans given to the troika in May 2011 is via a letter of intent signed by him and governor of the Central Bank of Ireland, Patrick Honohan, which states we will ensure that the costs of NAMA operations are reduced and that NAMA constructively contributes to the restoration of the Irish property market in the course of meeting the asset disposal targets established and monitored by the NAMA board, including disposal of 25% of assets by end 2013; and if he will confirm that no commitment has been given to the troika to repay NAMA’s debt. [16005/12]
I can confirm that the troika commitments regarding NAMA are included in the May 2011 Programme documents which concern NAMA's governance, operational costs and asset disposal targets. These commitments are included in the May 2011 Memorandum of Economic and Financial Policies and not in the Letter of Intent. As regards NAMA's debt, I would say that NAMA has purchased loans at a significant discount from the participating institutions. Its primary aim now is to repay those loans through the sale of loans or assets underpinning these loans.
69 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm the ex-post approval that has been given by the European Commission to the acquisition of loans by National Asset Management Agency; and the reason there has not been any approval given by the EC to the acquisition of €47bn of NAMA loans. [16006/12]
I am advised by NAMA that loans acquired by NAMA to the value of €13bn have been approved by the EU Commission to date. This represents the first two tranches and roughly €27bn of par debt. The remaining loans which constitute the third and final tranche of loans acquired by NAMA are currently being processed and the details are being provided to the Commission on the completion of due diligence in line with the agreed procedures. This process is expected to be completed by end-March. EU approval and related publications will be subject to EU commission timelines. When the EU Commission issue their approval this is normally posted on their website.
70 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm if developers whose loans have been transferred to the National Asset Management Agency and whose loans are in default may participate in the purchase of NAMA property through the NAMA qualified investment funds. [16007/12]
I am advised by NAMA that it proposes to sell property at arm's length to Qualifying Investor Funds which will not be under its control and that it is not normal practice for the seller in such instances to have access to the list of shareholders in the funds. Section 172(3) of the NAMA Act operates to prohibit developers, or companies they control, whose loans have been transferred to NAMA and whose loans are in default, from participating in the purchase of the property secured under those loans from NAMA or a NAMA group entity. It does not operate to prohibit third parties from acquiring such assets. If a developer whose loans have transferred to NAMA is a shareholder in a QIF and controls it or owns it outright, that QIF would be prevented under the Act from purchasing assets from NAMA.
71 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm the cumulative total of the National Asset Management Agency disposal of assets as at the end of quarter three of 2011; if he will confirm the value of sales booked in the accounts on such disposals in NAMA’s quarterly accounts at that date; and if he will confirm the profit or loss booked in the accounts on such disposals at that date. [16008/12]
I am advised by NAMA that the cumulative total proceeds from the sales of assets to Q3 2011 is €2.7 billion. The proceeds from the sale of assets includes the sale of property collateral related to loans acquired by NAMA and the sale of acquired loans to third parties. I am advised that where property collateral is disposed of, the proceeds are generally applied to reduce the outstanding loan balances and no profit is booked in the accounts in respect of the disposal of such collateral, except in cases where cash in excess of the total amount paid by NAMA for a borrower's overall loans has been recovered. Up to Q3 2011 NAMA had also sold a number of loans to third parties and where a loan is sold to a third party, a gain/loss on the disposal of the loan is also booked. I am informed that a gain of €132m has been booked in its accounts that reflects profits on the disposal of loans and excess cash recovered on the disposal of property collateral up to end Q3 of 2011.
72 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide details of the support given by the National Asset Management Agency to the University of Ulster for its so-called land development model; the aim of such support; and the projected cost. [16009/12]
As a key stakeholder in both jurisdictions NAMA has been involved in pieces of research by the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government and the University of Ulster in mapping land supply and demand. I am advised by NAMA that it is interested in these projects in particular as the outputs of these projects can deliver inherent benefits in terms of guiding strategic decision making around NAMA's portfolio and will aid in maximising value for the taxpayer.
I am advised by NAMA that the University of Ulster is undertaking the Northern Ireland Residential Development Landbank Study. The research rationale is to develop a robust and credible evidence base to: Inform and Support Lending & Strategic Decisions relating to land assets; Identify ‘ workout solutions’ and assess ‘financial viability’; Support/mobilise economic activity; Guide Planning/Regional Policy Decision Making; Create a Sustainable Land Development Model.
The deliverable will be a Spatial Analytical Data Model which overlays landbank assets with planning, infrastructure, demographics and housing need data to produce a holistic picture of land supply and demand in Northern Ireland. NAMA has, individually and collectively with Participating Institutions in Northern Ireland, facilitated the collaboration of all lenders in this critical piece of research. To underpin this NAMA has agreed to be a contributor, both in monetary terms (STG 20,000) and in terms of the provision of data. The Deputy should note that all data is subject to strict confidentiality protocols.
NAMA is also collaborating with the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government on similar work in the State and has worked closely with that Department in establishing a GIS planning tool. NAMA has also commissioned its own internal project to provide geo-mapping of all NAMA related assets in Ireland and this will help in understanding the linkage between NAMA assets and the wider planning and development context.
73 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm if the National Asset Management Agency has made any provision in its accounts for the costs of the legal case with a person (details supplied) which concluded at the Supreme Court in 2011; and if so, if he will confirm the quantum of any such provision. [16010/12]
I am advised by NAMA that no application for costs of the legal case mentioned has yet been received by the Office of the Chief State Solicitor and that NAMA have not made a provision for such legal costs.
74 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm the amount of working capital and other advances that have been made by the National Asset Management Agency for developments in the Twenty-six counties, both approved and actually paid over. [16011/12]
I am advised by NAMA that by the end of February 2012, the agency had approved an amount of working and development capital of €1,126 million. 45% of this amount or €506 million related to this State. As at the end of February 2012, of those monies approved by NAMA, it had actually paid over €757 million of which 45% or €341 million related to this State.
75 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that in addition to developer salaries, the National Asset Management Agency also agrees overhead levels at developers’ companies and if NAMA can quantify the total annual overheads agreed; if NAMA can relate those total overheads to the value of assets managed by these developers’ companies; and if NAMA can compare these overheads with the costs that would be incurred with the appointment of a receiver. [16012/12]
I am advised by NAMA that the decision as to whether to work with a debtor or to appoint a receiver is primarily determined by NAMA's assessment, in line with its commercial mandate, of how it can best optimise debt recovery for any particular debtor. If it decides that debt recovery is best achieved by working with the debtor, it is NAMA's practice to allow debtor companies to retain certain overhead costs from rental or other income produced by their assets where this is necessary for the company's operations. In a minority of cases, where assets are under development and not yet producing income, funds are advanced to debtors to cover essential overheads pending the completion of the projects involved. Overhead costs typically fall into two categories: Costs associated with the repair and maintenance of properties, insurance premia, local authority rates and professional fees. These are essential costs which would be incurred regardless of whether the assets were being managed by debtors or receivers. Overhead costs also include an allowance for the debtor's remuneration package and the salaries of staff employed by the debtor to manage the assets. The alternative in these cases is to appoint receivers and I am informed by NAMA that receiver costs tend to be substantially higher than debtor and associated staff salary costs.
These overhead payments are a necessary and cost-effective means of preserving and enhancing asset values. In the cases involved, NAMA concluded that working with debtors was a less costly option than enforcement and the employment of external asset managers.
The level of overhead is only agreed following a thorough and rigorous evaluation of the debtor's business plan by NAMA. Each cost element is reduced to the minimum. The level of overhead sanctioned by NAMA typically represents a very significant reduction on the level which prevailed prior to NAMA acquisition of the loans: typically, reductions of 50% to 75% in overhead costs have been imposed by NAMA.
NAMA has collated data on approved overhead costs where agreement had been reached by 31 December 2010 relating to 41 debtors who managed a total PAR debt of €18.6 billion or 25% of the total NAMA portfolio. Approved overheads for the 41 debtors was €55 million. This represents less than 0.3% of the PAR debt involved. Of the €55m in overhead costs, I am informed by NAMA that the bulk of the costs related to essential costs associated with maintaining and preserving the assets.
NAMA is currently collating data on all debtor overhead costs that it has approved and intends to publish this analysis at a later stage.
76 Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide clarification on the Revenue’s policy in relation to disabled drivers passengers (tax concessions) regulations; and in particular the policy of not allowing applicants to claim VRT and VAT refunds and other DD1 concessions on second hand cars which are suitable for the person with the disability and when the previous owner had disposed of the car with Revenue’s permission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16014/12]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that a person who purchases a second-hand vehicle from an authorised dealer, that has been adapted for use by a disabled person and who qualifies to avail of the Disabled Drivers and Passengers Scheme is entitled to claim relief in respect of Value Added Tax (VAT), Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) or residual VRT borne, subject to a maximum limit of €9,525 in respect of a disabled driver and €15,875 in respect of a disabled passenger. I have also been informed by the Revenue Commissioners that it has come to their attention that occasions have arisen where relief of the residual VRT was allowed to qualifying individuals on the purchase of used vehicles in the State where no VRT was paid in the first instance, e.g. on the purchase of a used vehicle by a qualifying individual where the relief was granted to an earlier owner of the vehicle who had previously qualified for the relief.
Consequently procedures were put in place to ensure that relief for the payment of VRT and VAT will only be allowed to qualifying persons or organisations in situations where the person or organisation has borne or paid VAT, VRT or residual VRT in respect of a vehicle or in respect of the adaptation of a vehicle. If the VRT on a vehicle has been fully refunded at an earlier date under the scheme, there is no residual VRT available to be refunded on a subsequent sale to a second qualifying person and this should be reflected in the price of vehicle at the time of resale.
77 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Finance when the tax relief for energy efficiency measures will be implemented (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16015/12]
Section 13 of Finance Act 2011 provided for income tax relief at the standard rate for expenditure incurred by individuals on a range of works carried out to improve the energy efficiency of residential premises situated in the State. The underpinning legislation for the scheme was subject to Commencement Order. However, that legislation, on review, was found to have flaws and would have required amendment before it could be implemented.
As part of the announcement in the Jobs Initiative last May, the Government undertook to provide further funding for the grants available under the Better Energy Homes scheme operated by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). Because of these circumstances, I decided to review the requirement for a co-existing tax incentive for similar works and, following this review, I decided not to proceed with the introduction of the tax relief scheme.
78 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Finance the options that are available to a retired person with an approved minimum retirement fund who wished to transfer it to an approved retirement fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16024/12]
Approved Minimum Retirement Funds (AMRFs) are part of the Approved Retirement Fund (ARF) regime introduced in 1999. The ARF regime gives a considerable degree of control, flexibility and personal choice to certain categories of individuals in relation to the drawing down of benefits from their pension plans. These choices include the options to purchase an annuity, to receive the balance of the pension fund in cash (subject to tax, as appropriate), or to invest in an ARF or an AMRF, subject to certain conditions. Access to these flexible options was extended to all main benefits from retirement benefit schemes (other than Defined Benefit arrangements) in the 2011 budget and in the Finance Act 2011. The changes made in 2011 have particular relevance for ordinary members of occupational defined contribution pension schemes in respect of the main benefits from such schemes, as up to the passing of Finance Act 2011, the only option available to them in respect of those benefits had been the purchase of a retirement annuity after taking the tax-free lump sum. These individuals now have the choices referred to above depending on their particular circumstances. It should be borne in mind that the option to invest in an ARF or AMRF as opposed to purchasing an annuity may not be appropriate for everyone.
Under the regime, the options to invest in an ARF, or receive the balance of the pension fund in cash (subject to tax, as appropriate) are subject to conditions. The conditions include the requirements that the individual be over 75 years of age or, if younger, that the individual has a guaranteed level of pension income (specified income) actually in payment for life at the time the option to effect the ARF or cash option is exercised. The Finance Act 2011 increased the guaranteed level of pension income required from the previous fixed amount of €12,700 introduced in 1999, to a variable amount equal to 1.5 times the maximum annual rate of the State Pension (Contributory) bringing the "specified income" limit to €18,000 per annum at present. The purpose of the specified income limit is to ensure, before an individual has unfettered access to their remaining retirement funds via an ARF for example, that they have the security of an adequate guaranteed income throughout their retirement. The change to the specified income limit introduced in Finance Act 2011 was strongly signalled in the National Pensions Framework, which was published in March 2010.
Where the minimum specified income test is not met, and an individual does not wish to purchase an annuity, then an AMRF must be chosen into which a "set aside" amount must be invested from the pension fund equal to 10 times the maximum annual rate of State Pension (Contributory) —€119,800 at present — or the remainder of the pension fund, after taking the tax-free lump sum, if less. Prior to the introduction of the Finance Act 2011, the "set aside" amount was fixed at the first €63,500 of the pension fund or the remainder of the fund after the tax-free lump sum, if less than that amount. The purpose of an AMRF is to ensure a capital or income "safety net" for individuals with pension income below the specified income limit throughout the period of their retirement. The funds in an AMRF can be used by the owner at any time to purchase an annuity. On death of the AMRF owner, the AMRF automatically becomes an ARF and any remaining funds may be passed on in a tax efficient way to a surviving spouse and/or children.
Prior to the introduction of the Finance Act 2011, if the minimum specified income test was not met at the time the option to effect the ARF or cash option was exercised and the individual placed a "set aside" amount in an AMRF, that capital sum was effectively "locked in" and could not be accessed by the individual, other than to purchase an annuity, until he or she reached 75 years of age (at which point the AMRF automatically becomes an ARF), although any income generated by the fund could be drawn down subject to tax. This was the position even if the minimum specified income test was met after retirement. The Finance Act 2011 changed this rule so that where the minimum specified income test is met at any time after retirement and before the age of 75, the AMRF automatically becomes an ARF with full access to the funds.
As a transitional measure, the Finance Act 2011 allows the previous lower guaranteed income requirement of €12,700 per annum to continue to apply for a period of three years from the date that Act was signed into law (6 February 2011) for individuals who had retired before that date and who already had an AMRF, as well as for individuals who availed of the deferred annuity purchase option, had exercised the ARF (or cash) option within a month of the date of passing of the Finance Act 2011 and who in exercising that option had transferred the requisite amount to an AMRF within that one-month period. This means that if such individuals satisfy the guaranteed income requirement of €12,700 within that three-year period, their AMRF becomes an ARF. After this three-year period expires, the new higher guaranteed income test will have to be satisfied before the AMRF can become an ARF. The amount of guaranteed income required to meet the test will change in line with any future change in the maximum annual rate of State Pension (Contributory).
Where individuals do not meet the new specified income test and choose not to take the AMRF option, they can of course purchase an annuity. Depending on the particular scheme rules, the annuity can be designed to include features that best suit the individual's particular needs, in terms of how long the annuity payments may be guaranteed after death, whether they revert to a dependant after death and whether they remain at the same level or increase during payment. The changes that were made in the 2011 budget and the Finance Act 2011 seek to ensure those in pension arrangements to whom the flexible ARF options on retirement have been extended will have choices which best suit their particular circumstances. In making the changes, there was a concern to ensure that the parameters and rules governing the extension are set in a way that avoids an increase in the risk of income poverty in old age. The deferred annuity purchase option was introduced with effect from 4 December 2008 for members of defined contribution occupational pension schemes and allowed them to defer the purchase of an annuity for an initial period of two years, in light of the fact that pension funds had been adversely affected by the falls in equity markets and the more general falls in asset values. The deferral option was operated administratively by the Revenue Commissioners. The period of deferral was subsequently extended to 6 March 2011 — one month beyond the passing into law of the Finance Act 2011.
79 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that the figure of €500,000 a month is the amount that a company (details supplied) is charging Irish Bank Resolution Corporation for its advisory services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16027/12]
The bank has informed me that all details relating to engagements between IBRC and third party advisers are confidential and subject to non-disclosure agreements and that, as a result, the bank cannot disclose any information in this regard.
80 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Finance further to Question No. 41 of 7 March 2012, if he will confirm if it is the case that three days after a company (details supplied) was announced as unsuccessful bidders in the US loan sale process that Anglo management subsequently approached the Irish Bank Resolution Corporation board regarding proposed engagement with the company; if he will confirm if Anglo management intended to approach the IBRC board regarding proposed engagement with the company before it was announced that they were the unsuccessful bidders for the US Anglo loan sale; if he will confirm whether Anglo management independently sought out the company for engagement or if the company pitched to Anglo management to engage with them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16028/12]
IBRC has confirmed that the investment arm of the company named in the question was a bidder for the purchase of the bank's US loan book in August 2011. Winning bidders were selected following a best and final process and in accordance with best practice. The company referred to in the question was unsuccessful in this process. IBRC independently sought to engage the services of the advisory side of the company referred to in the question. There is no relationship between timing of the loan sale process and the project for advice.
81 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Finance if members of staff of a company advisory (details supplied) who are currently working with Irish Bank Resolution Corporation and members of staff of the company investment group ever attended the same meetings together with any member of Anglo management in advance of IBRC awarding the contract for advisory services to the company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16029/12]
IBRC has confirmed that members of staff of the advisory company in question, together with members of staff of the investment group in question, attended a meeting with members of staff of IBRC. This was an introductory meeting of both organisations at which the manner of any possible future engagement was discussed. It has been clearly set out in response to previous parliamentary questions on the matter of this engagement that IBRC has retained the services of the "strategic advisory arm" of the company referred to in the question which has been validated by the bank as independent of the "investment arm" of the Group. It has also been previously confirmed that the UK Practice of FTI Consulting provided independent advice to the bank in relation to the appointment of the "strategic advisory arm" of the company referred to in the question. This was designed to ensure that no conflict of interest arises for IBRC in retaining the services of advisory arm of the company referred to in the question in this regard.
82 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Finance further to Question No. 41 of 7 March 2012, if he will confirm if the services of a company (details supplied) continue to be retained by IBRC as the initial engagement was for three months and therefore should have expired on 2 March 2012; if this engagement has been extended further, if he will outline the duration for which the company is contracted to provide an advisory service for IBRC; if he will confirm if his officials have found the weekly conference calls with the company beneficial in advising them as how best to maximise the return for the taxpayer through the wind down of Irish Bank Resolution Corporation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16030/12]
IBRC has confirmed that the engagement of the company in question has been extended for a further one month. The weekly calls are part of IBRC's ordinary course of business for which the bank is responsible. My Department dials in to these calls, depending on the agenda, to keep appraised of progress and developments.
83 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Finance if similar to the proposals for the National Asset Management Agency, he intends publishing the recommendations given by a company (details supplied) for the wind down of Irish Bank Resolution Corporation; if he does not intend publishing the companies advice if he will explain the reason there is greater public transparency for professional advice given for the wind down of NAMA than there is for IBRC given that both institutions are State owned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16031/12]
The recommendations referred to in the question arose from a limited review exercise focussed on the organisation and structural elements of NAMA. It did not focus on the commercial strategy of NAMA. IBRC is working in accordance with a plan which has been approved by the EU for the work out of the organisation by 2020. A redacted version of this approved EU plan is in the public domain. The recommendations given by the company in question in support of the achievement of the objectives in this plan will be considered by the Bank. The Bank deems any recommendations put forward by its advisors as commercially sensitive and for this reason the recommendations will not be disclosed.
84 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Finance if, given that Bank of Ireland‘s annual report shows that it has €417 million of outstanding subordinated debt liabilities, the holders of these €417 million subordinated debt liabilities represent subordinated note holders who gambled that he would not go through with using the Credit Institutions (Stabilisation) Act 2010 against note holders who did not participate in the subordinated buyback in July 2011; his views that this means that the taxpayer injected €291 million more into Bank of Ireland than would have been necessary had he used the powers available to him to force those who did not voluntarily participate in the nominal 70% haircut into participating. [16033/12]
Bank of Ireland's (the "Bank") Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2011, states that the outstanding subordinated liabilities in issue amount to €417 million. Adjusting for fair value accounting (€8 million) and excluding preference stock (€39 million) which is not a debt instrument, results in an outstanding unguaranteed subordinated debt amount of €370 million. As previously noted to the Deputy, it is not for the Minister to comment of the investment decisions made by the holders of subordinated debt in the Bank. The powers granted pursuant to CISA continue to be in effect and will be used in the future if necessary.
With regard to achieving burden sharing with subordinated bondholders in all of the banks including the Bank, I draw the deputy's attention to the fact that total capital generated from burden sharing with bond holders since 2008 is in excess of €15 billion. In relation to the Bank's €4.2 billion regulatory core tier 1 capital requirement arising as a result of the 2011 Prudential Capital Assessment Review ("PCAR 2011"), the net cost to the State was €0.2 billion which was sized to maintain a minimum 15% shareholding in the Bank and is less than 5% of €4.2 billion requirement.
As a first step to meet the PCAR 2011 €4.2 billion of regulatory core tier 1 capital, the Bank took various burden sharing measures with subordinated debt holders. This generated ca. €2 billion of capital for the bank. On 11 July 2011 the bank announced the size of the rights issue which was sized by reference to the remaining capital required for PCAR 2011 less the value of the remaining subordinated debt (€0.5 billion) where it was intended to seek further burden sharing.
As a result of further subordinated liability burden sharing in August and September 2011 the bank's remaining capital required to meet PCAR 2011 reduced to €350 million. As the deputy is aware, I noted on 23 November 2011 that the Bank had to raise this €350 million of core tier 1 capital by 31 December 2011 to satisfy the requirements of PCAR 2011. In that context I considered using the powers available under the Credit Institutions (Stabilisation) Act 2010 as amended ("CISA") to apply for a Subordinated Liabilities Order ("SLO") to generate, from subordinated liabilities, the residual capital required by the Bank by 31 December 2011.
On 2 December 2011, the Bank announced that it had raised approximately €350 million of core tier 1 capital, through its tender offer and purchase of capital market securities issued by the Bank. As previously noted to the Deputy, as a result of the Bank's announcement and the fact that the totality of the outstanding PCAR 2011 capital required by 31 December 2011 had been raised, the grounds for use of the powers under CISA to raise that capital through burden-sharing no longer arose.
85 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that the National Asset Management Agency accounting methodology for interest receivable, the so-called effective interest rule requires NAMA to forecast a terminal value for property securing its loans; and if he will explain the way NAMA arrives at such forecasts of property prices in the future. [16071/12]
NAMA presents its financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"). It is required to do so under EU legislation due to the fact it has listed debt securities. In accordance with IFRS NAMA uses the effective interest rate methodology ("EIR") for the recognition of interest income on its loan portfolio from the date due diligence is completed. For non-due diligence loans, income is recognised in accordance with the contractual interest received to the date due diligence on the loans is completed. The acquisition value of the loans was determined in accordance with the NAMA Act and related valuation regulations. As part of the valuation process the loans acquired were independently valued in accordance with a collateral based valuation model and there was an independent valuation of the property or collateral securing the loan. The valuation date for the value of all property assets in this collateral based model was 30 November 2009.
NAMA determined the effective interest rate for the loans it acquired using this collateral based valuation model which projects the property related cash flows and the realisation of the property collateral. The model assumes the realisation of the property using its value at the end of November 2009, as adjusted to reflect its long-term economic value where appropriate.
In accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"), NAMA has set the effective interest rate for the loans it has acquired based on the expected cash flows over the life of those loans determined at the acquisition of those loans.
NAMA has informed me that the effective interest rate methodology does not require NAMA to forecast a terminal value for property securing its loans.
The ongoing recoverability of income recognised in accordance with the effective interest rate methodology, is reviewed as part of NAMA's detailed annual impairment review. To the extent that following the acquisition of the loans, there is a change in the timing or amount of NAMA's expected cash flows, whether it is favourable or unfavourable, IFRS requires that NAMA adjust the carrying value of the loan and recognise an impairment charge or gain in its accounts. NAMA is currently carrying out its detailed annual impairment review for the 2011 year-end.
NAMA intends to introduce a semi-annual calendar accounting impairment review of its loan portfolio commencing 30 June 2012.
86 Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will review proposed changes to the school bus route arrangements relating to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare which takes many pupils from a nearby town in County Kildare that has one of the largest primary feeder school for the school and that will now fall outside the school transport system for this school, thereby splitting many families who already have pupils attending the secondary school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16026/12]
From the commencement of the 2012/13 school year, the use of the Catchment Boundary Area (CB) System as a means of determining eligibility will cease for all pupils newly entering post primary school. This means that from the 2012/13 school year, school transport eligibility for all pupils newly entering a post primary school will be determined by reference to the distance they reside from their nearest post-primary education centre having regard to ethos and language.
This change was announced as part of Budget 2011 but is not being introduced until the 2012/13 school year in order to allow parents of children newly entering post primary school ample time to consider their school choice options, taking account of the revised school transport eligibility arrangements.
At post primary level, the evidence is, as set out in the Value for Money Review of the School Transport Schemes, that the majority of children are attending their nearest post primary school/centre.
The changes to the Post Primary School Transport Scheme will be applied equitably on a national basis.
87 Deputy Peter Mathews asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans for a school (details supplied) in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15869/12]
As the Deputy is aware, in June 2011 I announced that 20 new post-primary schools are to be established up to 2017 across a number of locations to cater for increasing demographics. This announcement included a proposal to establish a new post-primary school in the area referred to by the Deputy. As announced this school will be a gaelcholáiste and is to be established in September 2014. The closing date for receipt of applications for patronage of the post-primary schools to be established in 2013 and 2014 was Friday 24 February 2012.
The Forward Planning Section of my Department is assessing all applications in line with the announced criteria and will prepare a report for submission to the New Schools Establishment Group, who will in turn submit their report to me for final consideration and decision.
Details of the new arrangements for patronage of new schools and the criteria for deciding on patronage of these new schools are available on my Department's website, www.education.ie.
88 D’fhiafraigh Éamon Ó Cuív den Aire Oideachais and Scileanna cén uair a thosófar an obair thógála ar an síneadh ar Choláiste Iognáid, Bóthar na Mara, Gaillimh, de bharr go bhfuil an comhlacht tógála a bhí ceapatha an obair seo a dhéanamh i lámha glacadóra; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [15880/12]
Tá mo Roinnse ag fanacht faoi láthair ar Thuairisc athbhreithnithe Tairisceana a fháil ón mBord Bainistíochta agus ón bhFoireann Deartha acu siúd maidir le conraitheoir comhlánaithe.
Ar an gcionníoll nach mbíonn ceisteanna ar bith ann maidir leis an Tuairisc Athbhreithnithe Tairisceana nuair a fhaighfear í, rachaidh an tionscadal ar aghaidh chun chéim an bhronnta agus ansin chun tógála.
89 Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a school (details supplied) in County Westmeath will be approved for a new school with remaining funds under the school building project; the reason the proposed extension will not commence until 2015/2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15883/12]
The current major building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is included in the five year programme announced recently and is listed to proceed to construction in 2015-2016.
The project is at an early stage of architectural planning. The Design Team are currently working on the stage 2a Submission (Developed Sketch Design). Assuming no issues arise with the stage 2(a) submission, the next step for the project will be progression to stage 2(b) which includes the applications for planning permission, fire cert and disability access cert and then the completion of tender documents. A procurement process will then be required to appoint a building contractor.
90 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide the details of the arrangements for the July provision this year in respect of children with an ASD diagnosis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15884/12]
The Deputy will be aware that the July Education Programme is available to all special schools and mainstream primary schools with special classes catering for children with autism that choose to extend their education services through the month of July. My Department also provides for a July Programme for pupils with a severe/profound general learning disability. Where school based provision is not feasible, home based provision may be grant aided.
Earlier this month all eligible schools were invited to take part in the programme for this year. Application forms for the home based provision will be available on my Department's web-site after the Easter holiday break.
91 Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a school (details supplied) in County Roscommon, will be approved for a new school under the school building programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15885/12]
In view of the need to ensure that every child has access to a school place, the delivery of major school projects to meet the demographic demands nationally will be the main focus for capital investment in schools in the coming years. The five year programme announced recently is focused on meeting those demographic needs. In that context, it was not possible to advance all applications for capital funding concurrently.
The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is currently at an early stage of architectural planning. The Stage 2a Submission (Developed Sketch Design) has recently been received in the Department. When the submission has been reviewed and assuming no issues arise, the project will then proceed to stage 2(b) which includes an application for planning permission and the preparation of tender documents.
However, in light of current competing demands on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to progress this project to tender and construction at this time.
92 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills the stage of a proposed building project for a school (details supplied) in County Dublin; when this project will proceed to the next stage; the likely timescale for this project to proceed to construction stage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15888/12]
In relation to the school referred to by the Deputy, my Department is considering a proposal from the school to conduct a feasibility study on development of the appropriate level of permanent accommodation on the schools existing site, which is quite small.
In the interim, my Department has authorised the provision of temporary accommodation to meet the current needs at the school. The school authority is in the process of procuring the necessary accommodation.
93 Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Education and Skills his policies regarding staff in schools being friends with children on Facebook; his policies regarding communication by teachers with children via any social media or by phone or text; his plans to address this matter rather than leaving it to individual schools to set their own policies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15894/12]
Under the provisions of the Education Act 1998, the board of management is the body charged with the direct governance of a school. Schools are required to take all reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of pupils and welfare of their pupils.
From a child protection perspective last Autumn my Department published updated "Child Protection Procedures for Primary and Post-Primary Schools". These procedures are based on the updated "Children First — National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children 2011".
The new procedures incorporate significant improvements to the previous school guidelines and are intended to better ensure consistent and uniform implementation of Children First across all schools. The improvements include a new template child protection policy, a requirement that all primary schools fully implement the Stay Safe programme and also put in place improved oversight arrangements at Board of Management level.
The new procedures recognise that child protection and welfare considerations permeate all aspects of school life and should be reflected in all of the school's policies, practices and activities. The procedures also specifically require that a school's child protection policy confirm that all school policies, practices and activities will adhere to certain principles of best practice in child protection and welfare.
In relation to the specific query raised by the Deputy I find it difficult to envisage how, in the normal course of events, it would be appropriate for teachers or other school staff to communicate with their pupils through social media websites.
94 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will confirm the status of a school (details supplied) in County Westmeath as a permanent school and in this context, the reason it was omitted from the five-year building programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15905/12]
The school to which the Deputy refers currently operates with temporary recognition and has applied to my Department for permanent recognition. My Department's Inspectorate has been requested to visit the school in this regard and to provide a report on the matter. The question of permanent recognition will be considered following receipt and consideration of the Inspector's Report and a decision will be conveyed to the school authority in due course.
In view of the need to ensure that every child has access to a school place, the delivery of major school projects to meet future demographic demands nationally will be the main focus for capital investment in schools in the coming years. The five year programme announced on 12 March last is focused on meeting those demographic needs. In that context, it was not possible to advance all applications for capital funding concurrently and the project for the school referred to by the Deputy was not included in the five year plan.
My Department is aware that the school referred to by the Deputy is currently located in rented accommodation and that a new school is required to meet its long term needs. However, in light of current competing demands on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible at this time to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of a project at this time.
95 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills the stage of the proposed provision of a new school (details supplied) in County Waterford; when this project will proceed to the next stage; the likely timescale for this project to proceed to construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15913/12]
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the school to which he refers is among the schools which I announced last week that are planned to proceed to construction as part of my Department's five year capital investment programme.
This school forms part of a bundle of schools that are targeted for delivery through the Public Private Partnership process. Negotiations are underway with a preferred bidder in respect of this bundle. When these negotiations are complete, I expect being able to confirm the timescale for the advancement of this project.
96 Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a school (details supplied) was not on the school building projects list which was announced recently by him despite the fact that the school will soon complete Stage 2b of his Department’s planning and building process; if this school will be included on the list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15919/12]
In view of the need to ensure that every child has access to a school place, the delivery of major school projects to meet the demographic demands nationally will be the main focus for capital investment in schools in the coming years. The five year programme announced recently is focused on meeting those demographic needs. In that context, it was not possible to advance all applications for capital funding concurrently.
The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning. The Design Team are currently working on completing Stage 2(b) of Architectural Planning.
School building projects currently in architectural planning, including the project referred to by the Deputy, will continue to be advanced incrementally over time within the context of the funding available.
However, in light of current competing demands on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to progress this project to tender and construction stage at this time.
97 Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a school (details supplied) was not on the school building projects list which was announced recently by him despite the fact that the school was informed in 2007 that they would be getting a new school and passed to architectural planning stage in 2011; if this school will be included on the list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15920/12]
In view of the need to ensure that every child has access to a school place, the delivery of major school projects to meet the demographic demands nationally will be the main focus for capital investment in schools in the coming years. The five year programme announced last week is focused on meeting those demographic needs. In that context, it was not possible to advance all applications for capital funding concurrently. The process for appointing a design team for the major building project for the school referred to by the Deputy will begin shortly. Officials from my Department will contact the Board of Management directly when this process is about to commence. School building projects currently in architectural planning, including the project referred to by the Deputy, will continue to be advanced incrementally over time within the context of the funding available.
However, in light of current competing demands on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to progress this project to tender and construction at this time.
98 Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a school (details supplied) was not on the school building projects list which was announced recently by him despite the fact that the school has full planning permission and has progressed through the architectural planning stage in 2011; if this school will be included on the list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15921/12]
In view of the need to ensure that every child has access to a school place, the delivery of major school projects to meet the demographic demands nationally will be the main focus for capital investment in schools in the coming years. The five year programme announced earlier this week is focused on meeting those demographic needs. In that context, it was not possible to advance all applications for capital funding concurrently.
The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning and the Stage 2(b) submission (Detailed Design) was approved by the Departments Planning and Building Unit on 10th January 2012. However, in light of current competing demands on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to progress this project to tender and construction at this time.
99 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the case of a school (details supplied) in County Mayo that is currently experiencing severe financial difficulties; the steps he will take to ensure continued funding for this facility; the way he will ensure continued service provision into the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15939/12]
The school referred to by the Deputy is a private ABA centre which is not funded by my Department.
My Department's policy is focused on ensuring that all children including those with autism can have access to an education appropriate to their needs, preferably in school settings through the primary and post primary school network. This facilitates access to individualised education programmes, fully qualified professional teachers who may draw from a range of autism-specific interventions, including ABA, special needs assistants, and the appropriate school curriculum with the option where possible of full/partial integration and interaction with other pupils. As each child with autism is unique it is important that children have access to a range of interventions so their broader needs can be met.
My Department's policy is to provide for children with special educational needs, including autism, to be included in mainstream schools unless such a placement would not be in their best interests or the interests of the children with whom they are to be educated. Some children may be supported in a special class attached to a mainstream school. These students have the option, where appropriate, of full/partial integration and interaction with other pupils. Other children may have such complex needs that they are best placed in a special school. Students with special educational needs have access to a range of support services including additional teaching and/or care supports. In special schools and special classes, students are supported through lower pupil teacher ratios. Special needs assistants may also be recruited specifically where pupils with disabilities and significant care needs are enrolled.
The Deputy may be aware that my Department previously funded 13 centres through an ABA pilot scheme. All of the centres which participated in this scheme have been granted recognition as special schools for children with autism and operate in line with my Department's policy. The pilot scheme was established in the absence of the network of school-based special classes for children with autism which is now available. The establishment of this network of autism-specific special classes in schools across the country has been a key educational priority in recent years. There are now in excess of 450 special classes for children with autism attached to mainstream and special schools.
100 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a school (details supplied) in County Louth has been removed from the new school building programme; the date on which this decision to remove the schools was made; the person responsible for this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15953/12]
102 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has carried out an assessment of the moneys already spent by a school (details supplied) in County Louth on design, engineering, planning, architecture and so on, which has been removed from the school building list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15955/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 100 and 102 together.
In view of the need to ensure that every child has access to a school place, the delivery of major school projects to meet the demographic demands nationally will be the main focus for capital investment in schools in the coming years. The five year programme announced recently is focused on meeting those demographic needs. In that context, it was not possible to advance all applications for capital funding concurrently.
The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is currently at an early stage of architectural planning. The Design Team were appointed in January and are currently working on stage 1 of the project.
School building projects currently in architectural planning, including the project referred to by the Deputy, will continue to be advanced incrementally over time within the context of the funding available.
However, in light of current competing demands on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible at this time to indicate when this project will be progressed to tender and construction stage.
101 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills the total spent each year to date on temporary accommodation for students at a school (details supplied) in County Louth. [15954/12]
The total amount spent on the rental of temporary accommodation at the school referred to by the Deputy from 2008 to date is €170,084.26. This is made up as follows:
2012 —€19,372.50;
2011 —€38,115.00;
2010 —€38,115.00;
2009 —€38,272.50;
2008 —€36,209.26.
103 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reasons schools (details supplied) have been removed from the new school building programme; the date on which this decision to remove the schools was made; the person responsible for this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15965/12]
105 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to include schools (details supplied) in the new school building programme; the date on which this will occur; and the date on which it is envisaged that construction of a new school premises will begin. [15967/12]
106 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will ring fence funding in order to proceed with a new school building for schools (details supplied); his plans to ensure that children attending these schools will not have to attend classes in prefabs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15968/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 103, 105 and 106 together. In view of the need to ensure that every child has access to a school place, the delivery of major school projects to meet the demographic demands nationally will be the main focus for capital investment in schools in the coming years. The five year programme announced recently is focused on meeting those demographic needs. In that context, it was not possible to advance all applications for capital funding concurrently.
The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning. The Design Team are currently working on Stage 2(b) of Architectural Planning which includes securing Planning Permission, Fire Certificate and Disability Access Certificate (DAC) and the preparation of tender documents. School building projects currently in architectural planning, including the project referred to by the Deputy, will continue to be advanced incrementally over time within the context of the funding available.
However, in light of current competing demands on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to progress this project to tender and construction at this time.
104 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills the total spend each year to date on prefab classrooms for schools (details supplied) in County Louth. [15966/12]
The total amount spent on the rental of temporary accommodation at the schools referred to by the Deputy from 2003 to date is €1,233,515.66. This is made up as follows:
2012 —€106,336.74;
2011 —€219,858.28;
2010 —€223,655.99;
2009 —€211,298.85;
2008 —€305,860.13;
2007 —€33,771.93;
2006 —€33.771.93;
2005 —€33,771.93;
2004 —€36,583.24;
2003 —€28,606.64.
107 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to refund moneys already spent by schools on design, engineering, planning, architects and so on, which have been removed from the school building list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15969/12]
The Deputy should be aware that design team fees on major school building projects are funded by my Department and not by the schools themselves.
School building projects currently in architectural planning and which could not be included in the 5 year programme will continue to be advanced incrementally over time within the context of the funding available. Where design team fees fall due in respect of progressing these projects to a tender ready stage, those fees will continue to be funded by my Department.
108 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide a breakdown of funding of projects in drugs task force areas, as set out in B8, Vote 26 — Education and Skills, in the Revised Estimates for Public Services 2012; the criteria used to allocate funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15970/12]
There are six projects in Local Drugs Task Force areas which receive allocations from subhead B8 of my Department's Vote. Four of the projects are administered by the VECs in Dublin City, Dublin County (2) and Dun Laoghaire; my Department also provides each VEC with an allocation towards administration costs. The remaining two projects are administered directly by my Department. The following table shows details of the allocations provided to the six projects in 2011 and 2012. A review of the six projects was carried out in 2011. As a result of the review, four of the projects have received allocations in 2012 similar to their allocations in 2011. Two of the projects have had their 2011 allocations reduced by 10%. These projects involve outside facilitators delivering the substance use aspect of the Social, Personal and Health Education curriculum in schools. Following the review, it was considered that, in line with best practice guidelines issued to schools by my Department, the classroom teacher is the best placed professional to work consistently with students on the SPHE programme.
|
Department of Education and Skills |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Local Drugs Task Force Area |
Project |
Administered by |
2011 Allocation |
2012 Allocation |
|
North Inner City |
Salesian Youth Enterprises |
City of Dublin Youth Services Board, under City of Dublin VEC |
€52,041 |
€52,040 |
|
Blanchardstown |
Blanchardstown Early School Leavers Project |
County Dublin VEC |
€59,677 |
€59,670 |
|
Ballyfermot |
Familiscope |
D/Education and Skills |
€67,402 |
€67,400 |
|
Dublin North East |
Rehabilitation and Support Programme (RASP) |
D/Education and Skills |
€138,847 |
€138,840 |
|
Tallaght |
Killinarden Drug Primary Prevention |
County Dublin VEC |
€64,426 |
€57,980 |
|
Dun Laoghaire |
Drug Education and Training |
Dun Laoghaire VEC |
€16,000 |
€14,400 |
109 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Education and Skills the way a certificate of trade competence could be practically fast-tracked and made affordable for persons who have worked in one of the construction related trades such as carpentry, painting and decorating, tiling, plastering, bricklaying and so on, for many years but who have not attained any papers to demonstrate their experience and capacity for the purposes of seeking work outside the State. [15995/12]
I understand that an individual with trade related work experience wishing to validate their competence can do so through the FAS Apprenticeship system as follows: 1. Register as an apprentice. To become an apprentice an individual must secure employment with a FÁS approved employer who will then register them as an apprentice with FÁS. FÁS will not register an individual unless the application is made through a FÁS approved employer. 2. Apply for Recognition of Prior Learning. A registered apprentice can apply to FÁS for recognition of trade related work experience and may be granted exemptions from some of the 7 phases of their apprenticeship. They must submit a portfolio of evidence outlining their work history and experience for review by a Subject Matter Expert who will advise FÁS if exemptions should be awarded or not and by how much the 4 year period of apprenticeship should be reduced. 3 Practical/Theory test. As part of the review of the application, the apprentice may be required to undergo a practical and/or theory test to assess their competence. 4. Complete Phases 6 and 7 of the apprenticeship FÁS does not award full exemptions from the apprenticeship programme. The maximum exemption an apprentice can be awarded is from Phases 1 to 5 inclusive. All exemption applicants will be required to complete Phases 6 (10 weeks off-the-job in college) and Phase 7 (12 weeks on-the-job with employer) of their apprenticeship as a minimum.
I am informed that FÁS currently does not charge a fee to process apprenticeship phase exemption applications. For further information about apprenticeships, individuals should contact their local FÁS Services to Business Office.
110 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reasons he is refusing to give any information concerning his Department’s qualification, the secondary school teacher’s drawing certificate to a person (details supplied) who met the conditions for this particular certificate in 1972 and who was not awarded the certificate by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15997/12]
The person to whom the Deputy refers applied, under the Freedom of Information Acts, for access to records concerning the Secondary School Teacher's Drawing Certificate. The original decision was made on 14 February 2011 and a decision on internal review was made on 24 March 2011. Access to some records was granted while access to others was refused and certain provisions of the Act were relied upon in that respect. The Department's internal review decision has been appealed to the Office of the Information Commissioner. As that review is pending at this time, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further.
111 Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Education and Skills the metrics used in choosing the schools to be included in the recently announced school building programme; if a ranking of schools according to these metrics was created as part of the process of designing the programme; if so, if the placing of schools in the announced programme followed exactly their placing in this ranking; and if not, the criteria or reasons for the displacement of some school or schools from their place in the ranking. [16036/12]
The Deputy will be aware of the demographic challenges that we are facing. Total enrolment in both primary and post-primary schools is expected to grow by almost 70,000 between now and 2018 — over 45,000 at primary level and 25,000 at post primary — and will continue to grow up to at least 2024 at post-primary level.
As such enrolment increases are not uniformly distributed nationally, my Department has carried out a study of the country using data from the Central Statistics Office, the General Register Office and the Department of Social Protection in addition to recent schools' enrolment data to identify the areas it is projected that there will be significant enrolment increases.
The Deputy may be aware that currently all applications received nationally for large scale capital funding are assessed against published prioritisation criteria which were formulated following consultation with the Education Partners. Under the criteria, each project is assigned an appropriate Band Rating which reflects the type of works required and the urgency attaching to them. Details of the criteria concerned are published on my Department's website.
However for purposes of the 5 Year Plan, new school building projects as well as major extensions have been identified and prioritised on the basis of meeting demographic needs in areas where such needs have been identified. Other criteria that were taken into account included factors such as whether projects, already in the Department's architectural process, were technically ready to proceed to tender and construction in the duration of the Plan.
I also wish to advise the Deputy that where an immediate enrolment need in an area has been identified e.g. the appointment of an additional teacher and where school's existing accommodation cannot provide for this growth, the Department will be prepared to consider applications by schools for capital funding for additional classrooms mainly on a devolved basis.
112 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide details of all the schools in County Donegal who have applied for capital works to be carried out or who have applications with his Department for capital works to be carried out; the types of capital works and the dates of the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16050/12]
I wish to inform the Deputy that information in respect of the current school building programme along with all assessed applications for major capital works, including the Co. Donegal projects referred to by him, is available on my Department's website at www.education.ie.
For the Deputy's convenience, a list of all major capital projects and their current status for Co. Donegal schools follows for ease of reference. In view of the need to ensure that every child has access to a school place, the delivery of major school projects required to meet demographic demand will be the main focus for capital investment in the coming years. It is not possible, therefore, to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the projects at application stage at this time.
The Deputy may also be aware that five Donegal schools have been invited to take part in the Prefab Replacement Programme which I announced recently.
In addition, many Donegal schools have received devolved funding to provide additional accommodation and/or replace existing accommodation in recent years. This information is not readily available but should the Deputy have a query in relation to a specific school or schools, he should contact the Department for further information.
|
Major Capital Applications |
|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
County |
School Roll No. |
School Name |
Current Status |
Application For |
Provisional Band Rating |
|
Donegal |
01733B |
Ardara Mixed N S Ardara (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
03294L |
S N Caiseal Na Gcorr Gort A Choirce (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
04809A |
Scoil An Aingil Choimheadai An Cheididh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
09009Q |
Rockfield NS, Ballyshannon, (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 4 |
|
Donegal |
11843O |
S N Neill Mor Killybegs (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
15770K |
S N Naomh Naille Na Caologa (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
16138S |
Raphoe Central N S Raphoe (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
16608G |
Killybegs Common N S The Commons (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
16819T |
S N Gort An Choirce Leitir Ceanainn (Donegal) |
Application |
New School |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
16821G |
Clochar Padraig Naofa Carndonagh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
16836T |
Naomh Bhrigid NS, Carndonagh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
16837V |
S N Duchoraidh Duchoraidh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
16850N |
St Garvan’S N.S. Drum Halla (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
17040G |
Sn Naomh Samhthann Drumdoit (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
17057A |
Dromcaoin Bealach Fheid Dromcaoin (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
17241Q |
S N Domhnach Mor Castlefin (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
17260U |
Scoil An Leinbh Iosa Killymard (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
17704H |
SN Fhionnain, Falcarragh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 4 |
|
Donegal |
17721H |
Scoil Treasa Naofa Malainn (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
17828C |
Scoil Adhamhnain Rathbhoth (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
17945G |
Scoil Naomh Chaitriona, Ballyshannon |
Application |
New School |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18058H |
Scoil Naomh Seosamh Rathdomhnaill (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
18129E |
Scoil Naomh Peadar (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18131O |
S N Muire Gan Smal Ard Aratha (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18251B |
Ayr Hill N S Ramelton Ramelton (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18286U |
S N Na Hacrai Ailt An Chorrain (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
18371L |
Scoil Mhuire An Craosloch (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18520C |
Scoil Phadraig Rath Seinche (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18605K |
Scoil Naomh Padraig Boys Carndonagh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18737E |
Scoil Bhride, Conmhagh, Lifford, (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
19009W |
Craanford N S Craanford (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
19228L |
S N Naomh Brid Na Dunaibh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
19310T |
Scoil Naomh Earnan (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 4 |
|
Donegal |
19518U |
S N Naomh Baoithin Sc Naomh Baoithin (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
19686S |
St Macartans Central Bundoran (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
19959E |
Scoil Naomh Fionan Whitecastle (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
20096E |
Gaelscoil Na Gceithre Maistri Baile Dun Na Ngall (Donegal) |
Application |
New School |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
20097G |
Gaelscoil Bhun Crannach Bun Crannach (Donegal) |
Application |
New School |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
62770C |
Scoil Mhuire Secondary School St. Oran’S Road (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
62861F |
St Columbas College Stranorlar (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
71140Q |
Crana College Crana Road (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
71242B |
Gairm Scoil Chú Uladh Beal an Átha Móir (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
71244F |
Gairmscoil Mhic Diarmada (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
76084L |
Moville Community College Carrownaff (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
81011L |
The Royal And Prior School Raphoe (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
91406R |
Carndonagh Community School Carndonagh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
91407T |
Rosses Community School Dungloe (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
91408V |
Pobalscoil Chloich Cheannfhaola An Fálcarrach (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
91409A |
Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair Doirí Beaga (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
ED40023 |
Donegal Education Centre Donegal |
Application |
New School |
Band 2 |
|
County |
School Roll No. |
School Name |
Current Status |
Application For |
Provisional Band Rating |
|
Donegal |
12077E |
Scoil Naomh Fiachra Letterkenny (Donegal) |
Awaiting Appointment of Design Team |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
18625Q |
Scoil Colmcille, Convent Road, Letterkenny |
In early Architectural Planning |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
19313C |
Glenswilly National School, Newmills, Letterkenny |
Awaiting Appointment of Design Team |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
19927O |
Scoil Mhuire B & C, Stranorlar |
Awaiting Appointment of Design Team |
New School |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
19967D |
Scoil Iosagain, Buncrana |
Awaiting Appointment of Design Team |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
20150H |
Holy Family NS, Ballyshannon, Donegal |
In advanced Architectural Planning |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
62830R |
St. Eunan’s College, Letterkenny |
In early Architectural Planning |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
County |
School Roll No. |
School Name |
Current Status |
Application For |
Provisional Band Rating |
|
Donegal |
17268N |
SN An Br M O Cleirigh, Creevy, Ballyshannon |
Handover Stage(Substantial Completion) |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18052S |
Scoil Mhuire gan Smal, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. |
In construction |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
County |
School Roll No. |
School Name |
Current Status |
Application For |
Provisional Band Rating |
|
Donegal |
16672P |
St. Patricks Primary School, Lurgybrack, Co. Donegal. |
In construction |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
19971R |
Gaelscoil Adhamhnain, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. |
At Tender Stage |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
County |
School Roll No. |
School Name |
Current Status |
Application For |
Provisional Band Rating |
|
Donegal |
19724A |
Little Angel’s Special School, Letterkenny |
In Architectural Planning |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
71230R |
Deele College |
In Architectural Planning |
Extension |
Band 2 |
|
County |
School Roll No. |
School Name |
Current Status |
Application For |
Provisional Band Rating |
|
Donegal |
20235P |
Letterkenny ETNS (Donegal) |
Application |
New School |
Band 1 |
|
County |
School Roll No. |
School Name |
Current Status |
Application For |
Provisional Band Rating |
|
Donegal |
18219F |
SN Chonaill, Machaire Chlochair, Bun Beag, Co. Dhun na nGall |
Completed |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
71240U |
Finn Valley College |
Completed |
New School |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
91409A |
Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhaire, Derrybeg, Letterkenny |
Completed |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 4 |
113 Deputy Ciara Conway asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the amount of money that an organisation (details supplied) received from the State for the year ending 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15960/12]
I assume the Deputy is referring to funding received under the legislation governing the Party Leader's Allowance. I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 3848/12 on the 24th January 2012 which sets out the conditions relating to the allowance, current annual payments and calculations thereof.
The Party Leader's Allowance is provided for in the Oireachtas (Ministerial and Parliamentary Offices) Act, 1938, as amended by the Oireachtas (Ministerial and Parliamentary Offices (Amendment) Act, 2001.
Based on the required calculations under the legislation, the current annual amount payable in respect of The People before Profit Alliance amounts to €143,040. The amount of the allowance paid in the year 2011 amounted to €120,902.86.
114 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when the review of allowances and premium payment costs across the public service will be completed and its findings published. [15910/12]
As announced in my address to Dáil Éireann on the 2012 Expenditure Estimates on 5 December 2011, public service bodies have to achieve a reduction of 5% in the cost of allowances and premium payments in 2012. Further savings are anticipated in subsequent years.
In order to facilitate the public service wide review of allowances, Departments were required to submit information, including costs, on the allowances and premium payments specific to their Department or sector, and where a Department considered it necessary to retain an allowance or a premium payment, a thorough and considered business case, before 31 January 2012. Pending completion of the review, sanction/delegated sanction for the payment of an allowance or premium payment for which a business case has not been approved by this Department to any beneficiary was withdrawn from 31 January 2012 until further notice.
I intend to bring proposals to Government shortly in relation to the findings of the review. Urgent business case requests are being processed in so far as is possible in order to ensure that the work of the public service is not unduly disrupted during the review.
115 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the Garda stations that were refurbished or that received additional accommodation for the years 2008 to 2011, inclusive, and to date in 2012; the works that were carried out in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15971/12]
The stations for which refurbishment or extension works were carried out in the years requested are listed as follows. The year given reflects when the work was completed:
|
Station |
Nature of Works |
|
Avoca GS, Co. Wicklow |
Refurbishment of GS and public access pathway |
|
Dunmanway GS, Co. Cork |
Provision of new rear entrance to allow phase 3 proceed. |
|
Granard GS, Co. Longford |
Extension and Full refurbishment of GS |
|
Letterkenny GS, Co. Donegal |
New Prisoner custody suite |
|
Swords GS, Dublin |
Construction of system build extension |
|
Tullow GS, Co. Carlow |
Remedial works following an arson attack |
|
Carrickmacross GS, Co. Monaghan. |
Roof replacement works |
|
Carlow GS, Co. Carlow |
Provision of storage unit |
|
Castlerea GS, Co. Roscommon |
Refurbishment |
|
Buncrana GS, Co. Donegal |
Temporary accommodation |
|
Station |
Nature of works |
|
Dunmanway GS, Co. Cork |
Extension and Full refurbishment of GS |
|
Bandon GS, Co. Cork |
Flood damage repairs to GS |
|
Gurrnabraher GS, Co. Cork |
Extension to rear of GS |
|
Mullingar GS, Co. Westmeath |
Extension to GS |
|
Ardee GS, Co. Louth |
Conversion of Married quarters into expanded GS |
|
Mullinavat GS, Co. Kilkenny |
Refurbishment of GS and married quarters |
|
Barraduff GS, Co. Kerry |
Refurbishment of GS |
|
44 O’Connell Street, Dublin |
Works to ensure compliance of Fire Regulations |
|
Newtownmountkennedy GS, Co. Wicklow |
Conversion of Married quarters for additional facility |
|
Carna GS, Co. Galway |
Remedial works due to arson attack |
|
Portlaoise GS, Co. Laois |
Additional Accommodation |
|
Laytown GS, Co. Meath |
Provision of additional accommodation |
|
Navan GS, Co. Meath |
Provision of additional accommodation |
|
Station |
Nature of works |
|
Bandon GS, Co. Cork |
Flood damage repairs to GS |
|
Clonmany GS, Co. Donegal |
Refurbishment of GS |
|
Delvin GS, Co. Westmeath |
Conversion of Married quarters into expanded GS |
|
Blanchardstown GS, Dublin |
Alterations to the public reception area |
|
Ronanstown GS, Dublin |
Internal alterations and refurbishment |
|
Craughwell GS, Co. Galway |
Extension and full refurbishment of the GS |
|
Newbridge GS, Co. Kildare |
Conversion of 2 Married quarters for use by the Regional Support Unit |
|
Tuam GS, Co. Galway |
Conversion of garage for Traffic Corp staff |
|
Santry GS, Dublin |
Fit-out works due to relocation of carriage office |
|
Mooncoin GS, Co. Kilkenny |
Integration of married quarters into expanded and fully refurbished GS |
|
Carndonagh GS, Co. Donegal |
Extension and associated works to GS |
|
Louisburgh GS, Co. Mayo |
Refurbishment works to GS |
|
Kilmainham GS, Dublin |
Roof replacement works |
|
Traffic Div — Dublin Castle |
Remedial works due to vacation of carriage office for use by Traffic Corp. |
|
Virginia GS, Co. Cavan |
Temporary GS provided for relocation of Garda during 2011 project |
|
Ballybofey GS, Co. Donegal |
Temporary GS provided for relocation of Garda during 2011 project |
|
Kilkenny GS, Kilkenny |
Additional Accommodation |
|
Henry Street GS, Limerick |
Additional Accommodation |
|
Wexford GS, Wexford |
Additional Accommodation |
|
Blarney Garda Station, Co. Cork |
Temporary Accommodation |
|
Station |
Nature of works |
|
Blanchardstown GS, Dublin |
Installation of perimeter fencing for security |
|
Carrickmacross GS, Co. Monaghan |
Remedial works to ensure compliance with Fire Regulations |
|
Castledermot GS, Co. Kildare |
Integration of married quarters area into expanded and fully refurbished GS |
|
Ballyshannon GS Traffic Corp., Co. Donegal |
Fit-out of Old Garda Station for use by the Traffic Corp |
|
Virginia GS, Co. Cavan |
Extension and refurbishment of GS |
|
Mullingar GS, Co. Westmeath |
Provision of new female locker facilities in GS, new Electric hub station and Fire Hydrant point. |
|
Ballyhaunis GS, Co. Mayo |
Integration of married quarters area into expanded and fully refurbished GS |
|
Castlegregory GS, Co. Kerry |
Integration of married quarters area into expanded and fully refurbished GS |
|
Kilmainham GS, Dublin |
New Public office and reception area and provision of additional cell. |
|
Naas GS, Co. Kildare |
Installation of new units as Locker rooms for staff to free up space within the GS |
|
Ballybofey GS, Co. Donegal |
Extension and refurbishment of GS |
|
Ronanstown GS, Dublin |
External security works and new set-down facility for prisoners |
|
Store St. GS, Dublin |
Upgrade works at 13 cells |
|
Fitzgibbon St GS, Dublin |
Provision of new public reception facility at No. 29 Fitzgibbon Street. |
|
Coolock GS, Dublin |
Demolition of existing cells and construction of modern custody area. |
|
Mountjoy GS/Fitzgibbon St GS, Dublin |
Additional Accommodation |
|
Clonark GS, Co. Roscommon |
Refurbishment |
|
Swinford Garda Station, Co. Mayo |
Adaptation and refurbishment works |
|
Station |
Nature of works |
|
Roscommon Govt. Office, Co. Roscommon |
Fit-out of office for relocation of Garda back office functions to Govt. Office |
|
Carrick-on-Shannon Govt. Office, Co. Leitrim |
Fit-out of office for relocation of Garda back office functions to Govt. Office |
116 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the levels of funding, or the possibility of funding available for a voluntary community innovation hub (details supplied) designed to promote and share business to aid job creation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15964/12]
It is my understanding that the promoter has had previous contact with Dublin City Enterprise Board and in this regard may wish to contact the Board to discuss further what options may be available to them and their proposed business venture. Dublin City Enterprise Board is located on 5th Floor, O'Connell Bridge House, D'Olier Street, Dublin 2; Phone No: 01 635 1144, Fax No: 01 635 1811: Email: info@dceb.ie Website: www.dceb.ie.
117 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation that in view of the long running dispute at a company (details supplied), if he will ensure that the State’s industrial relations agencies treat with the utmost urgency the need to deal without further delay with the concerns of employees of the company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15998/12]
Workers at the Lagan Brick factory in 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 its operation on 15 December last with the loss of 29 jobs. The union wanted to retain maximum employment at the plant and secure satisfactory redundancy terms for any workers that lose their jobs. Subsequently, representatives of the company and the trade union SIPTU attended conciliation talks at the Labour Relations Commission on 10th and 16th January. These talks were reconvened on 6 February following consideration by both sides of an examination of the trading position of the company undertaken by an independent expert.
Following the 6th of February hearing, SIPTU stated that it would be seeking the intervention of the Labour Court in this dispute following the failure to reach agreement in the talks at the LRC. However, I understand that Lagan Brick subsequently issued a statement to the effect that the company did not intend to pursue further negotiation with worker representatives in this matter. I understand that, in a ballot conducted on Thursday 1st March, SIPTU members in Lagan Brick voted almost unanimously to take strike action in response to the company's decision not to attend the Labour Court, and that seven days' notice of strike action was served on Lagan Brick by SIPTU on 2nd March. Official strike action began at Kingscourt on 10 March and SIPTU intends to continue the action until a satisfactory conclusion is reached.
I regret that the company has decided against pursuing a negotiated settlement and has declined to attend a Labour Court hearing, contrary to good industrial relations practice in that regard. In my view, the experience and expertise of the Labour Court offers the most appropriate and effective avenue for resolving such issues. I would urge the parties involved in this dispute to work together to break the current impasse by utilising the established machinery for dispute resolution, who are available to assist at short notice.
118 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16000/12]
I understand that the documentation provided by the Deputy relates to the position of the Construction Industry Federation and SIPTU respectively in relation to amendments proposed by the CIF to the terms and conditions of employment for workers in the construction sector currently set out in the Registered Employment Agreement. I understand that the parties to the Joint Industrial Council for the construction industry have been meeting regularly to discuss various issues, including the review of the terms of the Registered Employment Agreement.
Any party to a Registered Employment Agreement may apply to the Labour Court to vary the agreement under the terms of Section 28 of the Industrial Relations Act, 1946. The terms of the Registered Employment Agreement (Construction Industry Wages and Conditions of Employment) Variation Order, 2011 which provided for a 7.5% reduction in basic rates came into effect on 4th February, 2011. At that time the parties to the Registered Employment Agreement agreed to the Labour Court‘s original recommendation in the matter of June 2010 in which it recommended that the pay terms of the agreement be the subject of review in 2012.
119 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will review a matter in respect of a person (details supplied). [16025/12]
The Employment Appeals Tribunal and the Labour Court are independent in the exercise of their quasi-judicial functions. However, having made enquiries, I understand that in the case of the person referred to, the Tribunal issued a determination, pursuant to the Unfair Dismissals Acts 1977 to 2007, in her favour on 24 January 2012. Pursuant to the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997, the Labour Court issued a determination in her favour on the 14th January 2011.
On receipt of a favourable determination, a claimant should communicate with an employer about the means by which the terms of the determination will be implemented. An employer has six weeks from communication of a determination to either appeal it to the Tribunal or the Labour Court (as appropriate) or to comply with its provisions. If, on expiry of this six week period, the employer has neither appealed the determination nor complied with its provisions, the employee concerned or her trade union may apply to the Circuit Court for an order directing the employer to implement the determination.
In some circumstances, it may be possible to invoke the Department's assistance in enforcement of a court order. A request of this nature should be made in the first instance to:
Enforcement Services Section,
Workplace Relations Customer Services (part of NERA),
Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation,
O'Brien Road,
Carlow.
Lo Call 1890 80 80 90
www.workplacerelations.ie
In the specific case referred to, the National Employment Rights Authority (NERA) has also undertaken to contact the former employer regarding the non-payment of the awardsand for the purposes of carrying out a workplace inspection of the employer records. Allegations of non-payment of tax should be referred directly to the Office of the Revenue Commissioners.
120 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will review a matter in respect of a person (details supplied). [15873/12]
The Employment Appeals Tribunal and the Labour Court are independent in the exercise of their quasi-judicial functions. However, having made enquiries, I understand that in the case of the person referred to, the Tribunal issued a determination, pursuant to the Unfair Dismissals Acts 1977 to 2007, in her favour on 24th January 2012. Pursuant to the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997, the Labour Court issued a determination in her favour on the 14th January 2011.
On receipt of a favourable determination, a claimant should communicate with an employer about the means by which the terms of the determination will be implemented. An employer has six weeks from communication of a determination to either appeal it to the Tribunal or the Labour Court (as appropriate) or to comply with its provisions.
If, on expiry of this six week period, the employer has neither appealed the determination nor complied with its provisions, the employee concerned or her trade union may apply to the Circuit Court for an order directing the employer to implement the determination.
In some circumstances, it may be possible to invoke the Department's assistance in enforcement of a court order. A request of this nature should be made in the first instance to:
Enforcement Services Section,
Workplace Relations Customer Services (part of NERA),
Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation,
O'Brien Road,
Carlow.
Lo Call 1890 80 80 90
www.workplacerelations.ie
In the specific case referred to, the National Employment Rights Authority (NERA) has also undertaken to contact the former employer regarding the non-payment of the awards and for the purposes of carrying out a workplace inspection of the employer records. Allegations of non-payment of tax should be referred directly to the Office of the Revenue Commissioners.
121 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection when a review of a rate of disability allowance will be completed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15882/12]
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 20 September 2011. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought. These papers were received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 16 March 2012 and the appeal will, in due course, be assigned to an Appeals Officer for consideration. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
122 Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) in County Galway is being denied disability allowance because they are suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome with fibromyalgia, a condition that is not recognised by the disability allowance medical assessors; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15895/12]
The person concerned was refused Disability Allowance by the Deciding Officer following an assessment by a Medical Assessor of the Department who expressed the opinion that she was medically unsuitable for Disability Allowance. An appeal was opened and in the context of that appeal, her case was reviewed by a second Medical Assessor who also expressed the opinion that she was unsuitable for Disability Allowance. I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an Appeals Officer, having fully considered all the evidence, disallowed the appeal of the person concerned by way of summary decision.
Under Social Welfare legislation, the decision of the Appeals Officer is final and conclusive and may only be reviewed by the Appeals Officer in the light of new evidence or new facts. Following the submission of additional evidence the Appeals Officer has reviewed the case and has decided to set aside his decision and re-open the appeal by way of an oral hearing.
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 she 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.
126 Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason fibromyalgia is not a recognised illness, which allows sufferers to qualify for illness benefit or disability allowance; the steps she is taking to recognise this illness; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15918/12]
Fibromyalgia is accepted as a certifiable medical condition. Eligibility to illness related benefit / allowance is determined by its severity and expected duration. The medical assessment is made in accordance with the Department's evidence based medical protocols and guidelines.
127 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Social Protection further to Parliamentary Question, Reference No. 12758, when a person (details supplied) in County Carlow will receive a decision on their application for a review of carer’s allowance to the chief appeals officer received by the appeals officer on 28 October 2011; and if she will expedite a response. [15925/12]
I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an Appeals Officer, having fully considered all the evidence, disallowed the appeal of the person concerned by way of summary decision.
Under Social Welfare legislation, the decision of the Appeals Officer is final and conclusive and may only be reviewed by the Appeals Officer in the light of new evidence or new facts.
Following the submission of additional evidence the Appeals Officer has agreed to review the case. The person concerned will be contacted when the review of her appeal has been finalised.
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.
128 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Social Protection her plans to extend the homemaker’s scheme to include persons whose youngest child is over 12 years in 1994 because these women are currently entitled to nothing. [15930/12]
The homemaker's scheme was introduced in 1994 to make qualification for State pension (contributory) (SPT) 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.
As the Deputy is no doubt aware, 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.
For this reason, and in the context of the current fiscal crisis, there are no plans to extend the homemakers scheme as outlined by the Deputy. I am, however, 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 in 2020. 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).
People who do not qualify for the homemakers scheme as they had caring duties prior to the introduction of the scheme in 1994 may qualify for a reduced rate of SPC as a yearly average of only 10 along with 10 years' paid contributions over a working career is sufficient to qualify for a minimum SPT. Alternatively, they may qualify, depending on their means, for a higher rate of State Pension (Non-Contributory).
129 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social Protection the average length of time to process applications, from submission of application to receipt of payment, for family income supplement in the years 2009 to 2011, inclusive, and to date in 2012; the measures being taken to address this backlog; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15932/12]
The average time taken to award new Family Income Supplement (FIS) claims in 2009 was 8 weeks, in 2010 was 10 weeks and in 2011 was 17 weeks. The average time taken to award renewal FIS claims in 2009 was 8 weeks, in 2010 it was 10 weeks and in 2011 it was 18 weeks.
The average time taken in January 2012 to award a new FIS claim was 19 weeks and to award a renewal FIS claim was 20 weeks.
The increase in average time taken to award new and renewal FIS claims is mainly due to an increase in the number of applications received over the period. Total claim intake rose from 46,542 in 2009 to 48,110 in 2010 and rose again in 2011 to 51,214 — a total of 10% over the period.
The Department has introduced a number of measures to address the efficiency of claim processing for FIS in light of the current waiting times:
Existing processes and procedures are reviewed on an ongoing basis with the explicit objective of reducing delays in claim processing;
The ongoing staffing requirement is being kept under review in light of the continued strong claim intake;
Additional temporary staff have been recruited to help reduce the backlog;
Overtime working is being applied where feasible;
These measures are aimed at reducing the number of claims on hand and the average waiting time for a decision. The position is being closely monitored and kept under review by the Department.
130 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Social Protection the average time taken to process social welfare programme appeals, broken down by scheme, in the years 2009 to 2011, inclusive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15980/12]
Figures in regard to the average length of time taken to process appeals, broken down by scheme, and by type of decision are given in the tables which follow this reply.
In an effort to reduce the processing times, the Department appointed 12 additional Appeals Officers during 2010 and 2011. In addition, a further 10 Appeals Officers, formerly employed by the Community Welfare Services (CWS) of the Health Services Executive joined the Office in October 2011as part of the integration of the CWS appeals services into the Social Welfare Appeals Office. This brought the total number of Appeals Officers to 39.
The processing times are calculated from the registration date of the appeal to the date of its finalisation and include all activities during this period, including time spent in the Department for comments by the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal put forward by the appellant and any further investigation, examination or assessment by the Department's Inspectors and Medical Assessors that is deemed necessary. A considerable period of time is added to the process when an oral hearing is required because of the logistics involved in this process.
I am assured by the Chief Appeals Officer that she is keeping the methods of operation by which the Social Welfare Appeals Office conducts its business under constant review, and that the processes are continuously being enhanced to reduce the backlogs in the Office and, overall, to reduce the processing times for dealing with appeals.
|
Average time take to process appeals by scheme in 2011 |
||
|
By summary decision |
Following oral hearing |
|
|
Adoptive Benefit |
27.9 |
— |
|
Blind Pension |
20.4 |
69.8 |
|
Carers Allowance |
31.3 |
57.9 |
|
Carers Benefit |
21.8 |
59.4 |
|
Child Benefit |
47.6 |
66.0 |
|
Disability Allowance |
27.4 |
55.6 |
|
Illness Benefit |
38.2 |
59.8 |
|
Domicillary Care |
25.4 |
55.8 |
|
Deserted Wives Allowance |
— |
— |
|
Deserted Wives Benefit |
19.2 |
46.0 |
|
Farm Assist |
20.9 |
57.9 |
|
Bereavement Grant |
22.1 |
— |
|
Family Income Supplement |
19.9 |
31.8 |
|
Invalidity Pension |
36.4 |
58.9 |
|
Liable Relatives |
31.6 |
84.1 |
|
One Parent Family Payment |
24.3 |
57.5 |
|
Maternity Benefit |
25.1 |
62.1 |
|
State Pension (Contributory) |
24.9 |
55.3 |
|
State Pension (Non-Cont) |
20.6 |
54.6 |
|
State Pension (Transition) |
24.4 |
66.0 |
|
Occupational Injury Benefit |
30.7 |
54.8 |
|
Occupational Injury Ben (Med) |
77.8 |
65.0 |
|
Disablement Pension |
48.5 |
59.7 |
|
Incapacity Supplement |
— |
48.3 |
|
Guardian’s Payment (Con) |
36.2 |
62.7 |
|
Guardian’s Payment (NonCon) |
23.9 |
59.0 |
|
Pre-Retirement Allowance |
— |
— |
|
Jobseeker’s Allow (Means) |
18.0 |
54.8 |
|
Jobseeker’s Allowance |
23.8 |
47.9 |
|
Jobseeker’s Benefit |
15.1 |
34.0 |
|
JA/JB Fraud Control |
13.7 |
24.9 |
|
Respite Care Grant |
23.4 |
60.8 |
|
Insurability of Employment |
34.0 |
72.1 |
|
Supplementary Welfare All |
6.3 |
17.6 |
|
Treatment Benefits |
28.8 |
— |
|
Survivor’s Pension (Con) |
27.5 |
55.3 |
|
Survivor’s Pension (NonCon) |
18.1 |
53.1 |
|
Widows Parent Grant |
22.0 |
— |
|
All Appeals |
25.1 |
52.5 |
|
Average time take to process appeals by scheme in 2009 |
Average time take to process appeals by scheme in 2010 |
|||
|
By summary decision |
Following oral hearing |
By summary decision |
Following oral hearing |
|
|
Adoptive Benefit |
— |
— |
32.6 |
— |
|
Blind Pension |
19.7 |
42.6 |
19.8 |
39.4 |
|
Carers Allowance |
27.4 |
38.5 |
26.9 |
47.3 |
|
Carers Benefit |
16.6 |
36.0 |
21.6 |
44.2 |
|
Child Benefit |
40.2 |
47.3 |
48.4 |
63.1 |
|
Disability Allowance |
22.1 |
38.4 |
30.8 |
51.1 |
|
Illness Benefit |
26.4 |
40.4 |
39.2 |
56.4 |
|
Domicillary Care |
17.0 |
21.9 |
26.8 |
49.1 |
|
Deserted Wives Allowance |
— |
35.9 |
— |
— |
|
Deserted Wives Benefit |
— |
34.3 |
33.9 |
29.0 |
|
Farm Assist |
14.4 |
41.5 |
23.2 |
50.7 |
|
Bereavement Grant |
17.6 |
— |
25.1 |
— |
|
Family Income Supplement |
14.7 |
28.1 |
21.4 |
29.0 |
|
Homemakers |
— |
— |
15.3 |
— |
|
Invalidity Pension |
32.4 |
40.0 |
40.9 |
59.7 |
|
Liable Relatives |
24.6 |
37.5 |
35.9 |
— |
|
One Parent Family Payment |
19.7 |
38.5 |
30.2 |
49.4 |
|
Maternity Benefit |
20.8 |
— |
37.7 |
— |
|
State Pension (Contributory) |
28.5 |
36.7 |
29.6 |
49.2 |
|
State Pension (Non-Cont) |
16.9 |
40.7 |
26.5 |
49.9 |
|
State Pension (Transition) |
22.9 |
25.3 |
30.7 |
— |
|
Occupational Injury Benefit |
16.1 |
64.7 |
55.7 |
53.8 |
|
Occupational Injury Ben (Med) |
36.9 |
38.8 |
32.5 |
67.9 |
|
Disablement Pension |
30.1 |
36.3 |
27.4 |
51.9 |
|
Death Benefit (Pension) |
45.3 |
— |
— |
69.6 |
|
Incapacity Supplement |
— |
37.0 |
— |
30.7 |
|
Guardian’s Payment (Con) |
13.3 |
36.0 |
25.3 |
48.3 |
|
Guardian’s Payment (NonCon) |
12.7 |
29.0 |
24.3 |
42.2 |
|
Pre-Retirement Allowance |
9.0 |
35.2 |
— |
— |
|
Jobseeker’s Allow (Means) |
15.9 |
35.8 |
22.2 |
46.9 |
|
Jobseeker’s Allowance |
13.3 |
30.4 |
23.6 |
43.0 |
|
Jobseeker’s Benefit |
14.5 |
25.9 |
22.6 |
36.0 |
|
JA/JB Fraud Control |
46.2 |
59.9 |
— |
— |
|
Respite Care Grant |
19.5 |
37.9 |
30.5 |
49.1 |
|
Insurability of Employment |
27.0 |
56.9 |
31.3 |
67.4 |
|
Supplementary Welfare All |
6.5 |
10.8 |
6.9 |
14.8 |
|
Treatment Benefits |
16.5 |
— |
21.9 |
57.8 |
|
Survivor’s Pension (Con) |
19.6 |
43.3 |
35.2 |
53.6 |
|
Survivor’s Pension (NonCon) |
12.5 |
37.9 |
31.9 |
54.6 |
|
Widows Parent Grant |
— |
— |
20.9 |
— |
|
All Appeals |
18.2 |
34.8 |
27.4 |
45.6 |
132 Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason arrears will not be paid to a carer’s allowance applicant (details supplied) whose social welfare appeal has been allowed; the reason behind not paying arrears to the applicant; if she will reconsider this matter based on the long delays processing applications and appeals in both the carer’s allowance section and the social welfare appeals office; if she will ensure that payment is made to this applicant from the time of application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16019/12]
I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an Appeals Officer, having fully considered all the evidence, including that adduced at oral hearing, partially allowed the appeal of the person concerned.
Under Social Welfare legislation, the decision of the Appeals Officer is final and conclusive and may only be reviewed by the Appeals Officer in the light of new evidence or new facts.
Following the submission of additional evidence the Appeals Officer has agreed to review the case. The person concerned will be contacted when the review of his appeal has been finalised.
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 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Social Protection if her Department will take steps to ensure names are attached to all British old age pension transfers to individuals in order to avoid confusion in circumstances where more than one member of a credit union is in receipt of such transfers, in view of the fact that it is her Department through which recipients apply for the pension in the first instance and the Department may have contacts with its British equivalent. [16021/12]
134 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Social Protection if her attention has been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8 around whose British old age pension transfers some confusion has arisen because their name is not on the transfer; and if, given that her Department may have contacts with its British equivalents, she will take steps to ensure their name is attached to the transfers made into their credit union. [16022/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 133 and 134 together.
The matter in question has been referred to the Pension Service of the Department of Works and Pensions, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, England. The Pension Services of the Department of Work and Pensions will contact the person concerned directly in relation to this matter.
135 Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on whether the rent supplement limits currently being applied are considerably below the market rents for accommodation in the Dublin 5 and Dublin 13 areas. [16047/12]
The purpose of rent supplement is to provide short-term income support to eligible tenants 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 as at end 2011, a 61% increase.
The new maximum rent limits were set after an analysis of the most up to date market data available. The emphasis of the rent limit review was to ensure that maximum value for money for tenants and the taxpayer was achieved whilst at the same time ensuring that people on rent supplement are not priced out of the market for good quality private rented accommodation. 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. 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.
The Department is monitoring the impact of the implementation of these new limits. Although the new limits have only been in place for just over two months the current trends would suggest that the market is adjusting and the level of accommodation available at these limits is increasing.
136 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Social Protection if interest is added to statutory redundancy payments to claimants arising from the length of time they are waiting for their claim to be processed; and, if so, the amount of interest paid to claimants for each of the past four years. [16048/12]
There is no legislative basis for adding interest to statutory redundancy payments and no interest is paid.
137 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Social Protection if the paying of social welfare benefit claims or claims for statutory redundancy are covered by her Department’s obligations under the Prompt Payment Act. [16049/12]
The provisions of the Prompt Payment legislation do not apply to the payment of social welfare benefits claims or claims for statutory redundancy.
138 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Social Protection if changes have been made to the rules governing single male parents’ rent supplement that until recently could be paid for a two and three bedroom house depending on the number of children the father has access to as part of custody arrangements; if community welfare officers have been instructed to only provide a single person’s allowance in circumstances where the applicant is not claiming social welfare for his children meaning that he is being deprived of his right to family life and if so will she take steps to reverse the directive. [16051/12]
The purpose of the rent supplement scheme is to provide 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. The overall aim is to provide short term assistance, and not to act as an alternative to the other social housing schemes operated by the Exchequer.
Every claim for rent supplement is determined having regard to the particular circumstances of the applicant. Any person seeking a rent supplement must first satisfy the Department's representative that they have a housing need that they are unable to meet from their own resources. In addition, the Department must be satisfied that the residence is reasonably suited to the residential and other needs of the claimant. The Department must also be satisfied that the rent payable is reasonable having regard to the nature, character and location of the residence.
In a case where parents have joint custody of a child, the needs of both parents to have adequate accommodation to look after the child are taken into account when an application for a rent supplement is being determined. In such cases, documentation is normally required showing that a joint custody arrangement is in place and being availed of before a decision can be made.
139 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if the area abutting the river Delvin on its north side is part of the river Nanny and Estuary Special Protection Area; and if it is not, if he will outline the processes used to determine where a change to the boundary would be including any scientific evaluations, public notices and correspondences to prescribed bodies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16034/12]
Notification of a proposal to designate The River Nanny Estuary and Shore Special Protection Area (SPA) was publicly advertised by my Department in January 2008. The designation process permits landowners and others to appeal the inclusion of specific areas within Special Protection Areas. The inclusion of an area at the southern end of the SPA was the subject of such an appeal. Consideration of appeals is confined strictly to their ornithological merits. A review by my officials of available bird-usage data for the site justifies a revision of the boundary to exclude from the SPA part of the land that was subject to the appeal.
The designation process for this SPA will be concluded with the making of a Statutory Instrument for the site which will be publicly notified in due course. The revised boundary for the site will be reflected in the Statutory Instrument. The original and proposed revision of the boundary may be viewed on my Department's National Parks and Wildlife Service website at www.npws.ie.
140 Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to address the areas (details supplied) that will not receive transmission from RTÉ under the new digital Saorview signal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15881/12]
Issues relating to television coverage in specific areas of the country are an operational matter for RTÉ. The Broadcasting Act 2009 provides for RTÉ to rollout a digital TV network to the same extent as the analogue TV network. RTÉ has informed my Department that the current analogue TV network covers 98% of the population and that its new digital TV network Saorview will also cover 98% of the population.
RTÉ has developed a website providing information on the Saorview service including coverage information and this is available on its website www.saorview.ie. In addition, RTÉ has developed a new “free-to-air” satellite service unique to Ireland to ensure the RTÉ TV services are available to the remaining 2% of the population. RTÉ is not obliged to provide a satellite service and is doing so on its own initiative. It is my understanding that, with this satellite service, Ireland will have a national TV network covering 100% of the population for the first time.
141 Deputy Ray Butler asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will confirm if he is seeking an extension of the end date for support under the Irish REFIT 1 scheme from 31 December 2025 to 31 December 2027; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15886/12]
The REFIT 1 scheme is a feed in tariff support scheme that is payable for up to fifteen years for qualifying projects up to 31 December 2025. The scheme was formally cleared under the State Aid rules by the EU Commission and any changes to the scheme require further Commission approval.
The terms and conditions of REFIT 1 provided that the Minister could grant a project an extension of time if the reasons for delay in bringing the project to fruition warranted it. The backstop date of 31 December 2025 remained in force. Planning delays slowed down a number of expected grid reinforcement dates and through no fault of their own, project developers were not in a position to build out their projects in the original timeframes envisaged. This resulted in projects building from January 2011 onwards that would not be in a position to avail of the full 15 years the first REFIT support programme envisaged.
My Department is seeking approval from the Commission to extend the backstop date on REFIT 1 by two years, up to the end of 2027.
142 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to improve the mobile phone reception in Lauragh, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15959/12]
The authorisation of telecommunications service providers generally, the award of spectrum licences including the imposition and monitoring of associated quality and coverage requirements for the spectrum rights to provide mobile telephony services are statutory functions of the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) under the Communications Regulation Act, 2002 as amended.
Section 11 of the Act, requires that "Subject to this Act, the Commission shall be independent in the exercise of its functions" and such independence is also a requirement under the EU Directives which underpin the electronic communications regulatory framework in allMember States. Any complaint or query regarding the quality of service provided by any mobile telephone service provider in Ireland should be addressed directly to ComReg http://www.askcomreg.ie/about_us/form.asp.
143 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans for RTE masts that will be made redundant when Saorview is officially launched in October 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15962/12]
The development of the RTÉ network is an operational matter for RTÉ and not one in respect of which I, as Minister, have a function.
144 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the guaranteed feed-in tariff for renewable electricity production; the guaranteed tariff payable to micro energy producers; the maximum capacity that qualifies as micro production; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15992/12]
Electric Ireland operated a voluntary microgeneration scheme for domestic consumers with an upper limit of 11kv in size which closed for new applicants at the end of February. The scheme operated at a rate of 19 cent per kilowatt hour for Electric Ireland customers. This is above the wholesale rate of around 7 cent per kilowatt hour. Despite being asked to consider introducing such a scheme by the Commission for Energy Regulation, no other electricity supply company was prepared to introduce a microgeneration scheme. Given that the electricity market is now fully liberalised it was up to the individual supply companies to introduce a scheme of this kind.
The Programme for Government commits to consideration of a feed in tariff for micro-generators producing electricity for their own homes, farms and businesses and selling surplus electricity to the grid. The programme also states that the tariff will not be significantly above the single energy market price for electricity. Any increased electricity costs arising from extending such a scheme to PSO supports would have to be borne by all electricity consumers to fund it and typically microgeneration tends to require significantly higher tariffs than large scale generation.
The latest figures from ESB Networks are that 588 import/export meters have been installed, which are required for microgeneration. Electric Ireland has advised that they have 448 customers in receipt of payments under their domestic microgeneration scheme.
145 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will approve a preliminary report submitted by Roscommon County Council on the upgrade of the Castlerea regional water supply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15867/12]
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 Roscommon. The West Roscommon Regional Water Supply Scheme, which includes the Castlerea Regional Water Supply Scheme, is included in the Programme as a scheme to advance through planning. My Department is currently examining Roscommon County Council's Design Review Report which is an update of the original Preliminary Report for the scheme and a reply will issue to the Council as soon as possible. Once approved by my Department, the Council can then proceed with the preparation of contract documents for the scheme.
146 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of persons in his Department who hold qualifications in environmental protection and are available to advise him on such matters; the level of each of their qualifications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15872/12]
My Department employs staff with a wide range of professional qualifications in the environment area. All professional and technical staff recruited into my Department are required to possess the necessary qualifications and experience for the posts concerned and these are specified for the individual competitions. The general requirements for recruitment to the Environment Inspectorate of my Department are a degree in a relevant discipline such as Engineering or Science and 5 years relevant post-qualification experience. The Environment Inspectorate advises me in relation to technical and scientific aspects of my Department's environmental business agendas and currently comprises 7 staff. In addition there are 17 staff in the Water Inspectorate who advise in relation to the water services investment programme and water quality. The general qualifications for recruitment to the Water Inspectorate are a degree in engineering plus 5 years relevant post-qualification experience.
My Department's Planning Inspectorate numbers 4 at present and they advise in relation to the interface between planning and environment protection. The general qualifications for recruitment are a recognised qualification in town and country planning, or ordinary membership of the Irish Planning Institute or Royal Town Planning Institute and 7 years relevant post-qualification experience. The Building Standards Inspectorate of 5 persons advise inter alia in relation to energy conservation standards in buildings and the general recruitment qualifications are a degree in Architecture or Engineering plus 5 years relevant post-qualification experience. In addition, many administrative staff have third level qualifications in a variety of subjects. However, my Department's Human Resources records do not hold information in a way that would readily identify the number of such staff that hold qualifications in Environmental Protection.
Agencies under the aegis of my Department are also available to advise on environmental protection matters, in particular, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII). The EPA has responsibilities for a wide range of environmental licensing, enforcement, monitoring and assessment activities, as well as the provision of support and advisory services for the purposes of environmental protection to local authorities and other public authorities, including in my Department. The RPII provides information to the Government and public on matters relation to radiological safety and protection. The Institute is the statutory regulator for the custody and use of sources of ionizing radiation, and also conducts environmental monitoring and provides advice on these matters.
147 Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if a further exemption in section 4 of the Local Government (Charges) Act 2009 can be included so that persons (details supplied) who are in negative equity and paying the second home tax on property rented out are exempt from paying the household charge. [15889/12]
The Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 and the Local Government (Household Charge) Regulations 2012 provide the legislative basis for the household charge. Under the legislation, an owner of a residential property on the liability date of 1 January 2012 is liable to pay the household charge by 31 March 2012, unless otherwise exempted or entitled to claim a waiver. Interpretation of the legislation is a matter for legal advice in individual cases and ultimately a matter for the Courts.
The Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 provides for a number of exemptions and waivers from payment of the household charge. The exemptions from payment of the household charge are—
Residential properties that are part of the trading stock of a business and have not been sold or been the source of any income since construction,
Residential property owned by a Minister of the Government, a housing authority or the Health Service Executive,
Voluntary and co-operative housing,
Residential property subject to commercial rates and wholly used as a dwelling,
Residential property owned by certain charities or discretionary trusts, and
Residential property which an owner has vacated due to long-term mental or physical infirmity (e.g. elderly person that has moved into a nursing home).
The waivers which apply concern—
Owners of residential property entitled to mortgage interest supplement, and
Owners of houses in certain unfinished housing estates.
I have no proposals to provide any further exemptions from payment of the household charge.
148 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when an announcement will be made in relation to the allocation of funding for mobility housing aid grants for local authority tenants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15903/12]
Allocations in respect of my Department's Social Housing Investment Programme for 2012 were announced earlier this week. Under the programme, funding is provided for a range of measures to improve the standard and overall quality of the local authority housing stock. Funding of €6 million was allocated to housing authorities for the provision of necessary adaptations or extensions to meet the needs of tenants with a disability.
149 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the amount of money generated through motor tax in each county for the years 2010, 2011 and to date in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15972/12]
The information requested is set out in the following table:
|
Licensing Authority |
2010 Gross Motor Tax Receipts € |
2011 Gross Motor Tax Receipts € |
01 January-29 February 2012Gross Motor Tax Receipts € |
|
Carlow |
10,083,670 |
9,584,134 |
1,648,636 |
|
Cavan |
10,649,902 |
10,170,516 |
1,681,674 |
|
Clare |
18,669,347 |
16,948,293 |
2,921,725 |
|
Cork |
66,768,693 |
61,434,453 |
10,906,362 |
|
Donegal |
25,979,094 |
25,373,331 |
4,345,259 |
|
Galway |
34,801,297 |
32,489,805 |
5,373,560 |
|
Kerry |
20,222,833 |
18,160,310 |
3,102,191 |
|
Kildare |
22,133,820 |
20,555,909 |
3,510,995 |
|
Kilkenny |
14,192,540 |
13,289,838 |
2,495,572 |
|
Laois |
11,352,302 |
10,877,515 |
1,926,639 |
|
Leitrim |
5,203,306 |
4,859,321 |
848,620 |
|
Limerick County |
20,421,126 |
19,573,382 |
3,518,756 |
|
Longford |
6,472,094 |
6,286,391 |
1,064,230 |
|
Louth |
15,678,609 |
14,776,746 |
2,595,900 |
|
Mayo |
20,297,084 |
19,385,573 |
3,216,025 |
|
Meath |
21,766,051 |
19,952,795 |
3,319,137 |
|
Monaghan |
11,224,305 |
11,070,078 |
1,852,120 |
|
Offaly |
10,827,842 |
10,279,514 |
1,883,362 |
|
Roscommon |
10,788,815 |
10,177,855 |
1,808,172 |
|
Sligo |
10,463,763 |
9,957,281 |
1,743,617 |
|
N. Tipperary |
11,443,086 |
10,315,150 |
1,699,524 |
|
S. Tipperary |
15,431,227 |
14,622,522 |
2,594,128 |
|
Waterford County |
11,011,124 |
8,970,359 |
1,530,816 |
|
Westmeath |
13,922,139 |
13,182,014 |
2,313,420 |
|
Wexford |
22,317,211 |
21,671,290 |
3,665,327 |
|
Wicklow |
18,197,952 |
16,559,758 |
2,702,123 |
|
Dublin City |
112,129,772 |
101,627,430 |
17,641,654 |
|
Limerick City |
7,061,233 |
6,561,285 |
1,122,665 |
|
Waterford City |
6,147,867 |
5,537,332 |
1,024,028 |
|
On-line |
438,165,831 |
466,168,984 |
100,693,532 |
|
Totals |
1,023,823,935 |
1,010,419,164 |
194,749,769 |
150 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will amend section 4(3) of the Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 and section 4(2) of the Local Government (Charges) Act 2009 in order that the current exemption from payment of the two charges within three months of the date of issue of the grant of representation to the house of the deceased be extended until such time as that property is sold, in view of the difficult state of the current housing market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16020/12]
151 Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will consider making an exemption or deferral from the household charge for executors of wills who are responsible for residences of deceased persons while they are awaiting sale in this difficult property market, so the household charge amount could then be taken from the proceeds of sale when completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16037/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 150 and 151 together.
I refer to the reply to Question Nos. 346, 347, 359, 360, 369, 370, 375 and 397 of 21 March 2012, which sets out the position in this matter. I have no proposals to extend the three month period.
152 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will approve applications submitted by Cavan County Council in respect of two projects (details supplied) to enable work to be carried out this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16045/12]
My Department understands that Cavan Town Council intend to undertake improvement works to the 14 units at Árd na Greine out of funding provided by my Department under the retrofitting/energy enhancement measure of the Social Housing Investment Programme for 2012.
Following receipt of submissions in 2008 under the Remedial Works Scheme for a three-year programme of works to upgrade run-down local authority estates, it was decided not to approve the proposed works to the 44 unit estate at Killymooney Drive, largely due to the fact that the estate was constructed in 1988. All of the available funding under the remedial works measure is fully committed and no further projects can be considered for approval at this time.
153 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the extent to which steps are in place or are being put in place to prevent child prostitution; the number of any such incidents reported in the past five years by gender, age and nationality; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15763/12]
Under the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 1993, it is an offence to organise prostitution, coerce or compel a person to be a prostitute, knowingly live off the earnings of a prostitute, or keep or manage a brothel. The 1993 Act, as amended, provides that a person who solicits or importunes a child, whether or not for the purposes of prostitution, to commit an act which would constitute carnal knowledge or sexual assault is guilty of an offence. Moreover, a person who engages in a sexual act with the child could be charged with serious sexual offences.
Legislative proposals to further protect children from sexual abuse and exploitation, including exploitation through prostitution, are at an advanced stage of preparation in my Department. I expect to bring these legislative proposals to Government in the coming months.
I have requested a report from the Garda authorities in relation to the number of incidents referred to by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy again when the report is to hand.
154 Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda patrol cars in Galway city and county; the number likely to be decommissioned within the next year; his plans for the replacement of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15917/12]
The provision and deployment of Garda resources, including transport, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner in the context of his identified operational requirements.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that there are currently 91 vehicles attached to the Garda Galway Division of which 36 are marked patrol cars. Based on current usage, it is estimated that 13 marked cars may be decommissioned by the end of the year. One new patrol car has been allocated to date to the Galway Division in 2012.
The Garda authorities have also advised that an order for new Garda cars has recently been placed and that these vehicles are currently being rolled out. In addition, a tendering process is under way to put in place a contract which will allow for the provision of further Garda vehicles. This is a matter that will be pursued in the light of An Garda Síochána's operational priorities and the availability of financial resources.
I am further informed by the Garda authorities that a full and comprehensive policing service is being delivered throughout the country. They have also confirmed that the relevant policing arrangements are being kept under on-going review to ensure that optimum use is made of Garda resources.
155 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the names of any companies awarded contracts for work in the prison service over the past two years; if these tenders have been the subject of an open competitive tender, if not the reasons for same; the criteria used to award any such contracts; if any other options were considered; the costs involved and details of all assessments of same; and the persons that made the decisions to award the contracts in question. [15933/12]
156 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of drug security officers in each prison. [15940/12]
157 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the details of the work of the security committee of each prison in the State and any recommendations they have made to governors. [15941/12]
158 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the percentage of the prison population subjected to random mandatory drug testing during each of the past 24 months. [15942/12]
159 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the details of canine units attached to each prison. [15943/12]
160 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of times drugs have been found in parcels and correspondence posted to prisoners in each prison during each of the past 24 months; and the type of drugs found. [15944/12]
161 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the details of voluntary drug testing units in each of the prisons; the number of prisoners who engage with VDTUs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15945/12]
162 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will provide statistics of drug seizures in prisons, by location of seizure, method of introduction to the prison, type of drug and amount for each year since 2006. [15946/12]
163 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the details of any research commissioned by the Irish Prison Service into drug related matters during the past five years. [15947/12]
164 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the details of any research projects approved by the Irish Prison Service Research Ethics Committee during each of the past five years; the number and location of prisoners who were engaged in any subsequent research; and the number of prisoners whose information was given to a specific agency against their wishes when the Irish Prison Service viewed there to be a statutory or compelling reason to do so. [15948/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 155 to 164, inclusive, together.
I wish to inform the Deputy that it has not been possible to provide the information required in the time available. The information is currently being collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it is to hand.
165 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding Garda Operation Boa; the amount of drugs seized to date; the number of persons arrested and charged to date; if this operation is still active; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15973/12]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the initiative referred to was implemented under Operation ‘Clean-street', which is an initiative undertaken by the Garda National Drugs Unit, in conjunction with District and Divisional Garda Management, to target individuals involved in on-street sale and supply of drugs in the community.
This phase of the operation, which took place in the Coolock Garda District, resulted in the arrest of 40 persons who have been charged with over 120 offences contrary to Section 15, Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977/1984, relating to the sale and supply of drugs, primarily heroin and cocaine and are currently before the courts. Drugs, cash and ammunition were also seized during searches conducted during the arrest phase of this initiative.
The monetary value of drugs seized during this initiative would be small, with street-deals, worth between €20-€80, being purchased by undercover officers. While this operation has now concluded, the targeting of the on-street sale, supply and distribution of drugs remains ongoing in conjunction with District and Divisional Officers.
166 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will report on Garda Operation Quest; the number of persons arrested and charged to date; the number of successful convictions secured to date; if this operation is still active; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15974/12]
I have requested a report from the Garda authorities in relation to the matter referred to by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy again when the report is to hand.
167 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the amount spent on purchasing Garda vehicles for the years 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and to date in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15975/12]
The provision and deployment of Garda resources, including transport, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner. I am advised by the Garda authorities that the amounts spent on purchasing Garda vehicles for the years 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and to date in 2012 were as outlined in the table below:
|
Year |
Cost |
|
2007 |
€11,403,105 |
|
2008 |
€8,117,641 |
|
2009 |
Nil |
|
2010 |
€3,074,236 |
|
2011 |
€1,651,090 |
|
2012 |
Nil |
168 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of evidential breath testing machines in Garda stations in the Dublin region; if this number will be increased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15976/12]
I am advised by the Garda authorities that there are six Evidential Breath Testing Instruments deployed in the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) covering each of the Garda Divisions. I am further advised that the Garda authorities propose to deploy three additional Evidential Breath Testing Instruments within the DMR.
169 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the capacity of the Garda compound based in Santry, Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15977/12]
The arrangements made for the storing of vehicles by An Garda Síochána are matters for the Garda Commissioner.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that the capacity of the Garda compound in Santry is in the range of 200 to 300 vehicles depending on the category of the vehicles stored.
170 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he is considering any specific legislation to deal with the growing problem of stalking in view of the existence of such specific legislation in other jurisdictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15982/12]
Section 10 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997 provides for the offence of harassment, which includes the type of behaviour involved in "stalking". Subsections (1) and (2) state that:
“10(1) Any person who, without lawful authority or reasonable excuse, by any means including by use of the telephone, harasses another by persistently following, watching, pestering, besetting or communicating with him or her, shall be guilty of an offence.
(2) For the purposes of this section a person harasses another where—
(a) he or she, by his or her acts intentionally or recklessly, seriously interferes with the other’s peace and privacy or causes alarm, distress or harm to the other, and
(b) his or her acts are such that a reasonable person would realise that the acts would seriously interfere with the other’s peace and privacy or cause alarm, distress or harm to the other.”
A person convicted of such an offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months or both and on conviction on indictment to a fine or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 7 years or to both. A court may, in addition to, or as an alternative to any other penalty, order that the person shall not communicate with or approach the victim and even if the person is not convicted of the offence the court has the power to make such an order if it is satisfied that it is in the interests of justice to do so.
I would also add that section 101 Criminal Justice Act 2006 provides that where a person over 18 years of age is convicted of an offence under section 10 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person act 1997 and a sentence of 3 months or more is proposed, the court may impose "a restriction on movement order" as an alternative to a custodial sentence. The maximum length of such orders is six months and they may restrict the offender's movements to such extent as the court thinks fit.
I have no plans at present to introduce any further legislation.
171 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding crime issues. [16043/12]
Insofar as the crime related issues raised in the correspondence referred to are concerned, I am informed by the Garda authorities that local Garda management is aware of the issues affecting the areas in question in Dublin city centre.
Local Garda management has put in place a number of policing initiatives to prevent and disrupt anti-social behaviour, including the sale, distribution and use of drugs in the locality. The use of such initiatives has been acknowledged by the business community in the area as resulting in a reduction in this type of behaviour. An Garda Síochána liaises with the relevant authorities at local drug treatment centres and with the transport services providers to reduce the opportunity for such offences occurring. There is also ongoing liaison through the Community Policing Unit with local residents and the local business community.
The provisions of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Acts are also fully utilised by members of An Garda Síochána to address public disorder and other anti-social behaviour, including unlawful begging.
I am further informed that any incidents resulting in suspected child abuse or neglect are dealt with under the protocols currently in place between An Garda Síochána and the Health Service Executive (HSE), the provisions of which are strictly adhered to, with ongoing liaison between Garda management in the relevant Divisions and local management within the HSE.
The areas referred to are also subject to regular patrols by uniform and plain clothes units, including the Community Policing and Garda Mountain Bike Units, local Detective and Drug Unit personnel, supplemented as required by the Divisional Crime Task Force and Traffic Corps personnel.
Local Garda management closely monitors such patrols, and other operational strategies in place, in conjunction with crime trends and policing needs of the communities in these areas to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public. Garda management is satisfied that a full and comprehensive policing service is being delivered to the communities in the locality and that current structures in place meet the requirements of the delivery of an effective and efficient policing service to those concerned.
Insofar as broader crime questions are concerned, I can further inform the Deputy that I intend to build on existing work in order to put in place a National Anti-Crime Strategy, arising from the White Paper on Crime consultation process. This will provide a strategic framework for all of the measures in place to tackle crime, including prevention, intervention and enforcement measures, as well as measures to support victims. My intention is to publish this Strategy later this year and that it will help to guide our work to tackle crime into the future.
172 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will outline the circumstances of the placement in an open, low security prison of a prisoner (details supplied) with over 90 previous convictions, who has previously been involved in a 30 km high speed Garda chase, and was convicted of the death of a member of An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16044/12]
A person who absconded from Loughan House recently is currently before the courts in Northern Ireland facing criminal charges. The Deputy will appreciate that accordingly, making any public comment about that person at this stage would carry with it the danger of interfering with those criminal proceedings. I have however sought a report from the Director General of the Irish Prison Service and will in the next few days consider fully all issues of concern arising.
173 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Defence further to Parliamentary Question No. 146 of 14 March 2012, the way he can justify his statement that rent being paid by his Department is commercially sensitive when every other Minister is able to give an account of the rents they pay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16035/12]
As I indicated in my response to the Deputy's question on 14th March details regarding the specific rents paid in respect of each premises rented by my Department for use by the Reserve Defence Force (RDF) is commercially sensitive and I cannot therefore provide this information. However, what I can advise the Deputy is that for use by the RDF, the Department has 10 permanent rentals and 30 part time rentals in place including part time use of parish and community halls as well as some commercial premises. The amounts of rent paid in 2011 ranged from approximately €60 to approximately €13,300 per rental for the year.
The total annual cost is less than €100,000 for all forty premises.
174 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Defence when he plans to commence the recruitment of Army personnel; the numbers and ranks involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15915/12]
The Government has decided to accept my recommendations that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force will be maintained at 9,500. I believe that this is the optimum level required to fulfil all roles assigned by Government. As the Defence Forces are currently over 500 below the agreed serving cadre, the phased recruitment of General Service Recruits will be undertaken in 2012, within the resource envelope allocated to Defence. I am advised by the Military Authorities that a new recruitment competition will be advertised shortly. Details of this competition will be available on www.military.ie and in the National Press.
In addition, there will also be a Cadetship Competition in 2012. The planning for this entry level competition for officers is currently being finalised.
175 Deputy Regina Doherty asked the Minister for Defence the reason for the change of day for parade duty practice for the 65th Reserve Battalion at Makee Barracks, Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16001/12]
The military authorities have informed me that the 65th Infantry Battalion (Reserve Defence Forces) has restructured its training schedule so that the six companies of the Battalion can train on the same night. It is the view of the military authorities that the change in training arrangements has the positive advantage of exercising the Battalion Headquarters staff weekly in a realistic command setting, something which the Battalion has not been able to achieve previously. I have been informed that only nine personnel out of two hundred and forty seven indicated that this change did not suit them.
176 Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding an application for an afforestation scheme in respect of persons (details supplied) in County Leitrim; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15871/12]
Both applications by the persons named required consultation with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) because of the potential environmental impact of the proposed plantations. My Department has been in contact with the NPWS with a view to expediting the return of their observations on the proposals and it is understood that these should be available very shortly. The applications will be considered further as soon as the observations are received.
177 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding an application for sheep subsidy in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15902/12]
An application under the 2011 Grassland Sheep Scheme was received from the person named on the 28 April 2011. On processing it was discovered that the person named failed to submit a breakdown of the total numbers of sheep on the holding. My Department wrote to the person named requesting a breakdown. This has now been processed with a view to payment shortly.
178 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide a breakdown of the agri environment option scheme 1 payment in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15929/12]
The person named was approved for participation in the Agri-Environment Options Scheme with effect from 1st September 2010 and full payment totalling €662.82 has issued 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 and checks on capital investment claim forms had to be completed before any 2011 payment could issue. During these checks a number of queries were identified in relation to the capital expenditure claim of the person named. My Department has issued a query letter to the person named regarding this matter and will process the application further upon receipt of a response to these queries.
179 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the current number of staff at his Department's DVO office in Raphoe, County Donegal; the number staff that have left the office since 1 January 2005; and the number of the staff who have left who have been replaced. [15949/12]
180 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the range of services and work areas currently carried out at his Department’s DVO Office in Raphoe, County Donegal; and the number of these services that are additional to the services and work areas carried out by the office in 2005. [15950/12]
181 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to reduce the range of work areas currently carried out at his Department's DVO office in Raphoe, County Donegal. [15951/12]
182 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will give a commitment that current staffing levels will be maintained at his Department’s DVO office in Raphoe, County Donegal. [15952/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 179 to 182, inclusive, together.
As the Deputy will be aware, since 2009 my Department has been engaged in a local office reorganisation process, the purpose of which has been to ensure the continuity of a top quality service to its clients while at the same time recognising the harsh economic reality in which the public service has to operate.
The Raphoe Office is now one of 16 enhanced regional offices delivering schemes and services across the country. These offices provide an integrated service across the veterinary, AES, Single Payment Scheme and Forestry business units.
A management review of local offices in 2009 reported that with improved business processes, the Raphoe office could satisfactorily provide these services with some less administrative staff.
Up until now, there were no options available to my Department to redeploy surplus staff in or around Raphoe and, as a temporary measure, other work unrelated to the normal work of a Regional Office was sent to Raphoe to ensure all staff were fully occupied. The possibility has now arisen to redeploy a number of the surplus staff to other locations and my Department is pursuing that possibility in accordance with the terms set out in the Croke Park Agreement.
183 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a payment will issue to a group (details supplied) in view of the fact that this European Union financial support is essential for the viability of this particular sector of agriculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16046/12]
My Department is engaged in a process with the group in question on their payment claim. The Department wishes to bring this process to a conclusion as soon as possible.
184 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will confirm the number of declarations for inter-country adoption issued by the Adoption Authority of Ireland since 1 November 2010. [15927/12]
The latest information available from the Adoption Authority is that 200 new Declarations of Eligibility and Suitability have issued since 1 November 2010 to persons intending to adopt from abroad pursuant to Section 40 of the Adoption Act 2010.
In addition, pursuant to Section 63 of the Adoption Act 2010, the AAI has issued 563 revised Declarations to persons who were already in possession of a valid Declaration of Eligibility & Suitability issued prior to 1st November 2010 by the former Adoption Board and who had adoptions in process at the time of the establishment of the Authority.
185 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of incidents or suspected incidents of trafficking in women, children or teenagers reported in the past five years by gender and nationality; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15764/12]
The issues raised by the Deputy are for my colleague, the Minister for Justice and Equality.
186 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the extent to which she has put in place or intends to put in place measures to protect children against abuse of a sexual, mental or physical nature; the number of such incidents of this nature reported in the past five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15765/12]
193 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the procedure, if any, in place to identify and protect vulnerable children and teenagers from all forms of abuse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15771/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 186 and 193 together.
The Children First National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children, published in 2011, provides greater clarity and guidance for individuals and organisations in identifying and responding appropriately to child abuse and neglect. It also sets out what organisations that care for or work with children should do to ensure they are safe whilst in the organisation. The HSE Child Protection and Welfare Practice Handbook is a practice based publication aimed primarily at social workers, although it may be informative to others working in child protection. The HSE, as the body with statutory responsibility for the welfare of children, has a key role in terms of providing training, advice and information to external organisations on the operation of Children First.
Both the Children First Guidance and the HSE Practice Handbook recognises the respective responsibilities of the HSE and An Garda Síochána in the assessment and investigation of allegations of child abuse and/or neglect and the importance that all personnel in both services work closely and collaboratively to ensure the protection and welfare of children, which is of paramount importance.
The Government has committed, as a priority, to the introduction of legislation to underpin Children First. My Department has been working intensively to ensure the policy that is being developed will serve to protect children. I have consulted with a high level group of experts in the field, and reviewed legislation and practice internationally.
The policy framework to implement the decision by Government to put "Children First" on a statutory footing has been developed and draft heads have been provided to the Attorney General's office for her advices this week. Subject to her advice it is my intention to bring the General Scheme of the Bill to the Oireachtas Committee for Health and Children for its consideration.
The policy also takes account of the other complementary legislative proposals to strengthen child protection, namely, the National Vetting Bureau Bill and the Criminal Justice (Withholding Information on Crimes Against Children and Intellectually Disabled Persons) Bill. I have also taken the opportunity to consult informally with a number of experts in relation to the development of the policy in this area.
The framework focuses on the promotion and well-being of children generally; the provision of safe services for children; cooperation amongst professionals and organisations where children are at risk of neglect and abuse and making key individuals responsible for reporting child abuse, in line with thresholds, that is known to them. The latter objective is aimed at removing ambivalence, reluctance or refusal by people and organisations in positions of trust and authority to report child abuse and cooperate with the relevant authorities.
I intend that the legislation will reflect a broad based approach to compliance with obligations extending beyond reporting to one of safeguarding children at risk. The objective will be to ensure the greater protection of children by underpinning safe practices in organisations that provide care, education and other services to children. The Government is also committed to a significant programme of reform of our family support, child welfare and child protection services. This is intended to achieve national consistency with services across the country delivered according to national standards which will be externally evaluated. This reform will lead to a new Child and Family Support Agency which will provide the dedicated focus on family support, welfare and child protection. The implementation of these reforms will allow for the best possible services to be delivered within the resources available.
I have also received a copy of HIQA's draft Standards for Child Welfare and Protection which are published today for an eight week public consultation, following which they will be sent to me for my approval. The standards focus on how the HSE Child and Family Services carry out their responsibilities for child welfare and protection under the Child Care Act, 1991. Inspections will commence against these standards later in the year. As an indication of this government's priority to improve child welfare and protection services, HIQA have been allocated additional inspection posts to carry out this important work. These posts are currently being filled, and inspectors are undergoing an induction and training programme.
The number of incidents of an emotional, sexual or physical nature reported in the past five years is a service matter and I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy concerned with the information requested.
187 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the degree to which she intends to put in place supportive measures for children or teenagers who are victims of bullying; the extent to which the reporting of such incidents is facilitated; the steps taken or likely to be taken to address the issues arising; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15766/12]
188 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will indicate, from the information available to her, the age group of children or teenagers most likely to become victims of bullying; the most effective preventive measures if known; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15767/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 187 and 188 together.
I am aware that children and young people are susceptible to bullying which can emanate from a variety of sources.
My Department funds, in association with the Department of Social Protection and the Central Statistics Office the National Longitudinal Study of Children "Growing up in Ireland". In 2009 the study published its report on the lives of 9 year olds in which it found that bullying and victimisation represent a worrying aspect of a substantial proportion of children's experiences with their peers. Research suggests that bullying is quite pervasive in Irish schools.
Most commonly children reported that they had been verbally bullied, followed by exclusion and physical bullying. Bullying via written messages and electronic means was less prominent. Boys and girls experienced similar rates of victimisation with boys more likely to experience physical and verbal bullying, while girls were more likely to have experienced exclusion.
Children First, the National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children identifies that bullying in schools is a particular problem and offers some guidance on the issue. It highlights the need for school management boards to have a policy in place to deal with bullying, and to ensure that the teachers are aware of this policy and of procedural guidelines to deal with it.
Serious instances of bullying behaviour, whether by other children or by adults should be reported to the HSE Children and Family Services in accordance with the procedures outlined in Children First.
189 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the extent if any to which comprehensive evaluation of children and youth support services of a social, economic and psychological nature exist across the socioeconomic spectrum; the degree to which deficiencies in services resulting in vulnerability exist and are scheduled for specific attention; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15768/12]
192 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the extent if any to which she and her Department have carried out an evaluation of the requirements in respect of child and youth support services in all areas throughout the country with particular reference to meeting recreational, educational and psychological needs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15772/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 189 and 192 together.
The Youth Affairs Unit of my Department provides a range of funding schemes, programmes and supports to the youth sector. Funding of some €56.626m is available in 2012 to support the provision of youth services and programmes to young people throughout the country including those from disadvantaged communities.
The main objectives of the Youth Affairs area are to develop and implement coherent, coordinated and relevant youth policies and strategies to support the youth sector in providing effective non-formal education and developmental opportunities for young people through which they can enhance and develop their personal and social skills and competencies. My Department is currently developing a new youth policy framework and it is my intention that this framework will facilitate and promote co-ordination and cohesion across Departments and services throughout the country which will enable the most effective use of the resources available.
My Department is also developing a new strategy for children and young people. It will build on Our Children — Their Lives, Ireland’s first children’s strategy which was published in 2000 and it will cover the period from 2012 to 2017.The new children and young people’s policy framework is being developed in a holistic way to comprehend the continuum of the life-course from infancy, through early and middle childhood, to adolescence through to early adulthood, in keeping with my Department’s responsibilities for children and young people. It will be the overarching framework under which policy and services for children and young people will be developed and implemented in the State.
The views of a wide range of interests including children themselves will shape the development of the children and young people's policy framework over the next six months. It will be informed by the results of a consultation, in 2011, in which almost 67,000 children and young people throughout the country participated; the advice of the National Children's Advisory Council which comprises representatives of a range of organisations, both statutory and non-statutory, that work with children and young people; and the views of the National Children's Strategy Implementation Group which includes nominees of Government departments and state agencies that develop policies and deliver services for children and young people.
190 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the extent if any to which she expects to advance child protection legislation in the current year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15769/12]
I have an extensive legislative programme to address child protection issues which fall within my remit as Minister for Children and Youth Affairs.
It is my intention to bring the Children First Bill before the Oireachtas for consideration during 2012. This legislation is required to put Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children, as far as practicable, on a statutory basis.
The Child and Family Support Agency Bill is also a priority and a range of matters relating to the new agency, including consideration of the various functions to be discharged and associated governance arrangements, will be addressed in advance of the preparation of Heads and General Scheme. This legislation will provide for the establishment of the new Child and Family Support Agency which will be responsible for the delivery of services in the areas of child welfare, child protection and family support.
The Children's Referendum Bill will be drafted following the Government's approval of revised wording to amend the Constitution to acknowledge and affirm the rights of children. This wording is currently being drafted by the Office of the Attorney General in association with my Department and will be brought to Government as soon as the wording is finalised. It is the Government's intention to hold this very important Referendum this year and to publish an Adoption Bill in advance of the Referendum.
191 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs when she expects to finalise the national vetting bureau legislation; if she has had discussions with the various child protection agencies in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15770/12]
Work on the National Vetting Bureau Bill, which will include provisions in relation to the use of so called ‘soft' information is being led by the Department of Justice and Equality. This Bill forms part of a suite of complementary legislative proposals being brought forward by Government. In addition to the National Vetting Bureau Bill, this includes the Children First Bill being developed by my Department and the Criminal Justice (Withholding Information) Bill under the Department of Justice and Equality. Given the close link between the legislative programmes of my Department and the Department of Justice and Equality I have regular contact with my colleague, Minister Shatter, in this regard.
In addition, officials from my Department have been meeting and working closely with colleagues in the Department of Justice and Equality to provide feedback on the legislation as it is being developed. Specifically, officials of my Department are participating on a working group which is providing feedback to the Department of Justice and Equality on the National Vetting Bureau Bill.
194 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Health if he will provide any assurance in respect of the safety of fluoridated water for human consumption or its environmental impacts; and if he accepts this has a bearing for local authorities and whether the local authorities should be asked to cease the fluoridation of drinking water until such information is provided by his Department and the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government in accordance with EU law. [16018/12]
I have received a copy of the recent Report to which the Deputy refers and I have asked the Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health to examine it.
The Forum on Fluoridation, which reported in 2002, advised that the fluoridation of piped public water supplies should continue as a public health measure. One of the recommendations of the Forum was to amend the Regulations regarding fluoridation of public water supplies to redefine the optimal level of fluoride in drinking water from 0.8 to 1.0 parts per million (ppm) to between 0.6 and 0.8 ppm. Regulations were introduced in 2007 to give legal effect to this change.
The Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health advises that the balance of scientific evidence worldwide confirms that water fluoridation, at the optimal level, does not cause any ill effects and continues to be safe and effective in protecting the oral health of all age groups. The report of the EU Scientific Committee on Health and Environmental Risks (SCHER), published in June 2011, has not made any findings of negative health or environmental effects concerning fluoridation of water. There are no plans to discontinue the policy of fluoridation of public water supplies, which continues to make an effective contribution to oral health in Ireland.
195 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health the position regarding a medical procedure in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15870/12]
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.
196 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Health when agreements to extend free general practitioner care to all claimants of medicines under the long-term illness scheme announced in budget 2012 will come into effect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15874/12]
The Programme for Government committed to reforming the current public health system by introducing Universal Health Insurance with equal access to care for all. As part of this reform programme, the Government is committed to introducing Universal GP Care within the first term of office of this Government.
Initially it is intended to extend GP cover without fees to persons with defined long-term illnesses who are in receipt of drugs and medicines under the Long Term Illness Scheme. Primary legislation is required to give effect to this commitment. Once primary legislation has been approved by the Oireachtas, the details of the new arrangements will be announced.
197 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on when the outreach rheumatology clinic will be reinstated at Letterkenny General Hospital, County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15876/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
198 Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Health if he will arrange an appointment to be brought forward in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Offaly. [15878/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
199 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Health if he will direct the Health Service Executive to appoint a locum rheumatologist to Manorhamiliton, County Leitrim, to cover the second rheumatologist post until the person who is currently on maternity leave returns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15879/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
200 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Health the numbers of patients in Tallaght Hospital, Dublin, awaiting step down beds over the past 12 months; and the average waiting time on a patient by patient basis. [15892/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
201 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Health if he will confirm that Tallaght Hospital, Dublin is the busiest trauma hospital in the State; and if he will provide a breakdown of the numbers treated in the hospital compared with other hospitals in the system. [15893/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
202 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health the position regarding a long term care plan in respect of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [15896/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
203 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health if he will arrange for urgent surgical intervention in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15897/12]
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 in-patient or daycase 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.
204 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Health in view of the recent decision by An Bord Pleanála to reject the Mater Hospital, Dublin, as a suitable site for the National Children’s Hospital, if he will confirm or outline his position that suitable sites with land available like those at Tallaght Hospital, Dublin, are now being considered as suitable alternatives in the new planning application. [15898/12]
I recently established an independent group to consider the implications of the decision of An Bord Pleanála received on 23 February 2012 to reject the planning application for the proposed construction of a national paediatric hospital on the site of the Mater Misericordiae Hospital. The independent group will, as part of their review, consider all issues relevant to the location of the new children's hospital and will inform me of their findings on conclusion.
The Government has agreed the terms of reference for the Review Group and I announced the composition of the group last week. There is a wealth of expertise on the group. The membership is composed of senior planners, an architect, the CEO of a major UK Paediatric hospital and senior clinicians in the field of paediatrics. The chairman, Dr. Frank Dolphin, is a former Chair of the HSE and founder of Rigney Dolphin.
I will await the completion of the work of the Review Group and do not wish to make any further comment on the matter at this time. I wish to re-affirm my commitment to the construction of a national children's hospital as a Government priority.
205 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health the position regarding support and treatment in respect of a person (details supplied). [15906/12]
As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
206 Deputy Mattie McGrath 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 Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15909/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
207 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health the position regarding home help in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 3. [15911/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
208 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health further to Question No. 481 of 6 March 2012, if he will confirm that no funding was allocated to the proposed National Children’s Hospital for 2012. [15923/12]
209 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health further to Question No. 481 of 6 March 2012, the amount of funding assigned to the National Children’s Hospital project in 2012. [15924/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 208 and 209 together.
My Department is currently reviewing the HSE's proposals for its Capital Plan 2012-2016. A number of issues required to be addressed in follow-up with the Executive, including recent developments regarding the National Children's Hospital. An indicative amount of funding was allocated to the NCH in the HSE's draft Capital Plan 2012-2016 as submitted to my Department. However, as stated in the reply to the Deputy's earlier question, "the recent developments regarding the National Children's Hospital will require that some of the assumptions made in the plan in that regard are reviewed and my Department, together with the HSE, will be addressing the issues arising as a matter of priority."
The proposed plan requires my approval with the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform. Details of the plan will be published by the Executive following its approval.
210 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health when the relevant and required procedures of a surgical or other nature will be offered in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15926/12]
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.
211 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health when the new mental health facilities in the grounds of Cherry Orchard Hospital, Dublin, are due to open. [15928/12]
As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
212 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will provide the average waiting time for each hospital emergency department, and the equivalent time last year in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15934/12]
As this is a service issue, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
213 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the basis on which emergency department waiting times are currently calculated. [15935/12]
Currently details of Emergency Department waiting times are published on the HSE's website under the Monthly Performance Report (PR) using a combination of full Patient Experience Time (PET) and sampling PET data.
Building on the achievements of 2011, the Special Delivery Unit (SDU) will work with the National Treatment Purchase Fund, the HSE Clinical Programmes and hospitals to minimise patient waiting times in emergency departments along with reducing waiting periods for in-patient and day case elective surgical care.
The SDU is currently working on a refined methodology for recording Emergency Department waiting times for patients (PET) across the system. It is planned to have a number of hospitals reporting on the basis of the PET method by the second quarter of 2012. Work will continue to bring the remaining hospitals on stream as quickly as possible. Full PET data for individual hospitals will be published when it comes on stream and in the interim, data derived from sampling will be used.
During 2012, the SDU will extend the coverage of the Patient Experience Time methodology to ensure that the data is captured in a uniform manner across the hospital system.
214 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will provide, in tabular form, the numbers of staff of each grade projected to leave each area of the health service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15936/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
215 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the original cost projections of the early retirement scheme; the new cost projections; if he expects frontline services to be affected by the scheme being oversubscribed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15937/12]
The National Service Plan was based on an assumption that 3,000 whole-time-equivalent staff or some 3,500 people would leave following the ending of the "grace period" which is not an early retirement scheme.
As set out in the National Service Plan, the estimated additional cost of these retirements comprised:
An increase of €44m for lump sum costs.
Additional cost of funding pensions of €68m.
Estimated loss of salary contributions for superannuation and the pension levy amounting to €18.9m.
A provision of €16m has been built in to a replacement factor for critical posts. The number of posts which can be supported by this funding depends on the salaries of those being appointed.
Whilst additional funding was provided through the Estimate process for the once-off additional cost of the lump sums, the other costs will be met by the HSE from the consequent payroll savings of those leaving. The figures in the Estimates assumed that the net saving to the Exchequer would amount to €57m.
The latest figures available from the HSE indicate that some 4,500 personnel retired between September 2011 and February 2012. Once the data on actual lump sums and pensions is available, the HSE will be in a position to run a new cost estimate associated with this level of retirements. It is possible that there may be a growth in costs although some of these lump sums will have already been paid in 2011. The Executive still has to determine how many of the retirees were actually on the payroll on retirement as this will have a consequent effect on the payroll savings associated with the retirements. In addition, staff with premium pay or allowances, are entitled to the ‘best 3 years out of the last 10' to be reckoned for pension purposes, which requires 10 years payroll records to be examined for each person. In a recent sample of 413 retirees, 87% had premium pay or allowances. In this context it may be some time before the HSE can accurately determine the full financial impact of the retirements.
Planning for the impact of the end of the "grace period" began last autumn. Contingency plans have been developed locally for hospital and community services, reflecting risk assessments undertaken by each hospital/community manager. These have been reviewed at regional and national levels to ensure appropriate measures are in place across all services, with the focus on protecting and maintaining critical front-line services.
In order to achieve this, it is essential that changes in work practices and in how services are organised are pursued in the first instance. These include staff redeployment, streamlining of management structures, changing business processes and integrating services, as well as rostering and skill-mix changes. Some recruitment of new staff is also taking place to ensure that key specialist services are maintained.
216 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the case of a school (details supplied) in County Mayo that is currently experiencing severe financial difficulties; the steps he will take to ensure continued funding for this facility; the way he will ensure continued service provision into the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15938/12]
My Department has received an application for funding from the 2012 National Lottery allocation from the organisation in question. This is one of a large number currently being assessed by my Department, and the Deputy will be informed of the outcome of the application as soon as a decision has been made.
217 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the number of physiotherapists, social workers, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists currently working in Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9; if these number will be increased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15981/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
218 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health when the step-down beds and services for senior citizens will be made available at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Raheny, Dublin 5; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15990/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
219 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health if the free diabetic eye check provided by the Health Service Executive is being administered equitably; if he will investigate if the procedure followed (details supplied) is correct; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15993/12]
The National Cancer Screening Service (NCSS) was requested by the HSE National Directorate of Clinical Strategy and Programmes in 2011 to commence the planning and development of a national diabetic retinopathy screening programme. The NCSS has experience in developing population health based screening programmes and manages the BreastCheck and CervicalCheck programmes. The screening model proposed by the NCSS and agreed with the HSE National Directorate of Clinical Strategy and Programmes is one that is largely contract based and reliant on third party service providers.
The HSE's National Service Plan 2012 commits to continuing the implementation of the national diabetic retinopathy screening programme and will link in the "Red House" scheme, as the HSE has already proposed. I have asked the NCSS to provide my Department with commencement dates as soon as possible and I remain confident in the HSE's commitment to this programme.
220 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health the reasons for the delay in arranging heart surgery at St. James’s Hospital, Dublin, in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will expedite the matter. [15999/12]
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 daycase 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.
221 Deputy Regina Doherty asked the Minister for Health when a bed will be made available for a pending operation in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16002/12]
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 daycase 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.
222 Deputy Regina Doherty asked the Minister for Health when a bed will be made available for a pending much needed operation in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16003/12]
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 daycase 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.
223 Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied that respite services are being withdrawn from patients in St. Benedict’s Ward in Cashel, County Tipperary, due to inadequate staff resources; the way he plans to deal with these staff shortages to ensure that respite services are continued for patients who require such services to ensure that they do not have to become long-stay patients, resulting in further strain on the system; the actions that he will take to ensure that respite services are re-instated for a patient in south Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16016/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
224 Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health if he will give an assurance that adequate home care will be provided to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary thus continuing the level of care they receive from the Jack and Jill Foundation and to allow that charity to step back from this case; if he will explain the reason there are regional discrepancies in the provision of care by the Health Service Executive for children in similar cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16023/12]
The Health Service Executive (HSE) is working with the Jack and Jill Foundation to identify and prioritise the needs of each child on a case-by-case basis to ensure that no child is hospitalised for want of adequate home support, provided by either the Foundation or the HSE. In relation to the child referred to by the Deputy in his question the HSE in conjunction with the Brothers of Charity Services has endeavoured to facilitate the family's wishes to meet his needs within the resources available. The HSE wrote to the family on 23 February asking them to clarify how they wished the HSE to proceed.
The Jack and Jill Foundation service is part of a range of services provided to families funded by the HSE and its other contracted service providers for children with life limiting conditions (approximately 1,300 children in total). Many children availing of services provided by the Jack and Jill Foundation also avail of other specialist hospital based and community based health supports and disability services. The HSE is committed to working with the Jack and Jill Foundation in a spirit of partnership and positive collaboration. The HSE aim is to ensure that all children with life limiting conditions would receive services on an equitable basis and through a standardised approach to be progressed through the children's palliative care steering group. The National Policy, "Palliative Care for Children with Life — Limiting conditions in Ireland" will ensure a national approach to the provision of services for children with life limiting conditions. All services and service providers will be governed by this approach. The implementation of the Policy's key recommendations involves the appointment of Ireland's first Paediatric Palliative Care Consultant and the appointment of 8 outreach nurses to support the care of children in the home. Dr. Karen Ryan has been appointed as the Paediatric Palliative Care Consultant.
The HSE has recognised the need to increase the level of consistency and standardisation in the way both early intervention services and services for school-aged children with disabilities are delivered. The HSE is currently engaged in a reconfiguration of existing therapy resources to geographic based teams for children (0-18 years). The project is organised at national, regional and local level and includes representatives from the health and education sectors, service providers (statutory and non-statutory) and parents working together to see how current services can be reorganised. A detailed action plan is being implemented with the following objectives:
One clear pathway to services for all children with disabilities according to need.
Resources used to the greatest benefit for all children and families.
Health and education working together to support children to achieve their potential.
225 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health his plans to review the Health Service Executive national service plan in view of the extra numbers of staff who retired as part of the grace period scheme; when this review will take place; when it will be competed; when the review will be made public; if an end to the recruitment moratorium will be considered as part of this review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16038/12]
226 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the specific services which will be cut or diminished due to greater than forecast numbers of persons retiring as part of the grace period scheme; the way he intends to minimise the effects of this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16039/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 225 and 226 together.
Considerable work was undertaken by my Department and the HSE in recent months to manage and plan for the impact of retirements from the health sector in the lead-up to the end of the ‘grace period' on 29 February last. The focus was and continues to be on protecting and maintaining critical front line services.
Within the HSE, contingency plans were developed locally for both hospital and community services, reflecting risk assessments undertaken by each hospital/community manager. These have been reviewed on an ongoing basis at regional and national levels to ensure appropriate contingency measures are in place across all services.
The HSE National Service Plan 2012 acknowledged that there will be an inevitable and unavoidable reduction in services this year because of the scale of the financial and staffing challenge facing the health service including ‘grace period' retirements. It is, therefore, necessary to be as innovative and flexible as possible in order to mitigate the impact on services of reduced budgets and staffing. The mitigation measures which are in place include the backfilling of certain critical posts. However, the priority is to reform how health services are delivered, in order to ensure a more productive and cost effective health system.
The need for dynamic and proactive management of the reduced budgets and staff will remain and will continue throughout the year. In this context, the National Service Plan will, therefore, be subject to ongoing review.
The Government has determined that, in line with its commitment to reduce the size of the public service, health sector employment numbers must be reduced by about 2,300 WTE to approximately 102,100 WTE in 2012. The moratorium on recruitment is necessary to achieve this reduction. There are no plans to change this policy.
227 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the specific efforts that have been made to improve the throughput of medical card applications and reviews since 2 March 2012; his plans to improve the process and turn around time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16040/12]
I continue to engage with the HSE to improve their handling of medical card applications. As a result of actions in this area, the HSE has reported to me that 96% of complete applications received in late-February/early-March have been processed within 15 days, compared to a turnaround target of 90% in its 2012 National Service Plan. The HSE has also reported to me that the backlog in processing 2011 applications has been reduced by 77% since January. Regarding developments since the beginning of March, I am pleased to say that, as part of their continuing efforts to resolve difficulties, the HSE has put in place a plan, covering the period March and April, for the resolution of key issues in the medical card scheme's application processing system. This plan is in addition to the review of the centralisation project that is being undertaken by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) on behalf of the HSE to develop medium and longer term plans. The report from the PwC review is due to be delivered shortly.
228 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied); the date on which they will receive an appointment for Crumlin Children’s Hospital, Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16041/12]
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-care 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.
229 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if he will review the decision to refuse a full medical card in respect of a person (details supplied); the date on which said decision will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16042/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
230 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of taxis licensed here for the years 2009, 2010, 2011 and to date in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15978/12]
Statistics relating to small public service vehicle (SPSV) licences, are a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA), who regulate the SPSV sector. I have referred the Deputy's request for information to the NTA for direct reply. He should advise my Office if he does not receive a reply within ten working days.
231 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of persons who travelled on Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann and Luas for the years 2010, 2011 and to date in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15979/12]
The information requested is a matter for the individual companies involved. I have referred the Deputy's question to the companies for direct reply. He should inform my private office if he does not receive a reply within ten working days.
