Sandra McLellan
Question:10 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Health his plans for review and reform of mental health legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24209/12]
Written Answers
The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 9, inclusive, answered orally.
Mental Health Legislation
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:58 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if he will give assurances that the review of the Mental Health Act will address the situation of the lack of safeguards for voluntary patients, many of whom remain in mental health hospitals without any requirement of external review of admission or detention, the lack of adequate protections in relation to electro-convulsive therapy, the lack of automatic access to an advocate, how and when people are re-graded from involuntary to voluntary ahead of a tribunal and the need for the Mental Health Act to interplay with the provisions of the upcoming capacity legislation. [24191/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 10 and 58 together.
The Programme for Government includes a commitment to review the Mental Health Act 2001, "informed by human rights standards and in consultation with service users, carers and other stakeholders".
The Government and I attach great importance to this review and in June of last year I established a Steering Group to oversee the review with Terms of Reference including the need to have regard to the recommendations of ‘A Vision for Change' and the provisions of the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities.
To ensure that the review attracted wide attention, a public consultation campaign was launched in September 2011 and 100 submissions were received from a variety of organisations with an interest in mental health as well as from individuals with experience of or comments on service delivery prompted generally by their own experience or that of a family member.
Since July 2011 the Steering Group, which was tasked with producing an interim report in the first instance, has met 9 times to discuss the main issues arising, while a further 15 meetings with key stakeholders were also held.
The interim report has now been completed and is under consideration within the Department. The second and substantive phase of the review should commence in the near future.
The purpose of the Mental Capacity Bill is to bring Irish capacity legislation into line with current thinking and modern legislative frameworks worldwide, including the Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities, by establishing a comprehensive framework to support persons lacking the mental capacity required to exercise their legal capacity. I am aware that what emerges from the review of the Mental Health Act will need to dovetail with the Mental Capacity Bill.
The issues of safeguards for both voluntary and involuntary patients in general, and specifically in relation to the administration of ECT, as well as the regrading of involuntary patients and access to advocacy services, are issues that have arisen in the context of the interim review and will be further examined in the substantive phase of the review.
Health Services
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:11 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the degree to which it is expected to maintain the highest possible quality, standard and range of health services in all regions throughout the country in the current and future years notwithstanding the budgetary curtailment commitments entered into by his predecessors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24190/12]
The HSE National Service Plan sets out the type and volume of service the HSE will provide directly, or through a range of funded agencies, during 2012. The Plan was prepared in the context of the challenges faced by the health services this year in terms of reduced staffing levels, and a reduced budget, combined with increasing demand for services. The Plan also takes account of additional funding being invested this year in areas such as mental health services, primary care, Fair Deal, the national clinical care programmes and children's services. In line with the Plan, the HSE will minimise the impact on front line services by fast tracking new, innovative and more efficient ways of using reducing resources. New models of care will be introduced across all services, which will treat patients at the lowest level of complexity and provide quality services at the least possible cost. The roll out of the National Clinical Care Programmes and Special Delivery Unit initiatives will also deliver greater productivity. My Department continues to work with the HSE to mitigate the impact of retirements and to ensure that the contingency plans are operating satisfactorily and that all critical front line services continue to be delivered across all regions. This includes using the provisions of the Public Service Agreement such as greater flexibility in work practices and rosters, and maximising redeployment. Staff resources will continue to be allocated to areas of greatest priority. Clearly, the need for dynamic and pro-active management of the impact of reduced staffing and budgets will continue throughout the year and in this context the National Service Plan is the subject of continuous review by the HSE Board. The Government is committed to developing a universal, single-tier health service, which guarantees access to medical care based on need, not income and that continues to be our aim. This year we will deliver two important measures with the allocation of €35m for new mental health services and €15m necessary to provide free GP care for people with specified illnesses, which were promised in the Programme for Government. This underlines our commitment to health service reform and to the maintenance of high quality services to the greatest extent possible within the resources available.
Symphysiotomy Report
Billy Kelleher
Question:12 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the reason for the further delay in the publication of the report on symphysiotomy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24268/12]
Mick Wallace
Question:15 Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Health the progress that has been made to date regarding the report on symphysiotomy commissioned by the Chief Medical Officer in his Department last year; when the draft report will available for consultation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24343/12]
Gerry Adams
Question:56 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Health when the report he commissioned on symphysiotomy will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24196/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 12, 15 and 56 together.
My Department has received a draft report from the independent academic researcher who was appointed to complete a report into the practice of symphysiotomy in Ireland.
I asked the Attorney General to consider the draft research report and I have recently received her advice. There is no legal impediment to publishing the research with certain clarifications included. In line with best practice on research, a peer review process has been initiated. I propose to make the draft research report available for consultation this month. Following the consultation process with relevant individuals and bodies and the outcome of the peer review, the report will be then finalised by the academic researcher and published by my Department.
I also understand that there may be court proceedings pending in respect of women who underwent this procedure. The consultation process will need to take account of such proceedings in order to ensure that nothing is done that might impede these cases pending.
I am determined to bring this matter to a satisfactory conclusion for all women concerned as soon as possible. I am very conscious of the distress that this procedure has caused to a number of women in the past and recognise the pain that this issue has caused to those affected by it. The Government is committed to dealing with this matter sensitively, so that if at all possible, closure can be brought to those affected by it.
Hospital Services
Catherine Murphy
Question:13 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health if he will confirm that access to specialised treatment services which are solely available at a specific public hospital can sometimes be denied to public patients when those patients live outside that hospital’s catchment area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24237/12]
Under the provisions of the Health Act 1970, eligibility for public health services in Ireland is based primarily on residency and means. All persons normally resident in the state are eligible for in-patient and outpatient public hospital services including consultant services. It is unacceptable for a patient to be informed at short notice that a hospital will not treat them because they are in the ‘wrong' catchment area and my Department has been working with the HSE to clarify its policy in this area.
I can confirm to the Deputy that a letter issued yesterday from the National Directors of the HSE and the Chief Operating Officer of the SDU setting out the position in relation to catchment areas.
With immediate affect all hospitals will be requested to:—
Refrain from any further limiting of historic catchment areas i.e. No further refusals of referrals from areas which such referrals have been accepted since 2009.
This will be retrospective to the start of this year in most cases subject to discussion.
This will apply to both "new referrals" and also to existing patients in long-term care / treatment.
I am confident that working with the RDOs and the hospitals that this particular issue will be quickly resolved. The SDU will continue to work with the HSE to embed improved GP referral systems which will enhance patient access to the health services.
Long-Term Illness Scheme
Barry Cowen
Question:14 Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Health if he will consider including sufferers from epidermolysis bullosa in the long-term illness scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24280/12]
Timmy Dooley
Question:19 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Health the reason persons suffering from motor neuron disease are not covered by the long-term illness scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24283/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 19 together.
There are no plans to extend the list of conditions covered by the Long Term Illness Scheme. Under the Drug Payment Scheme, no individual or family pays more than €132 per calendar month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. The scheme significantly reduces the cost burden for families and individuals incurring ongoing expenditure on medicines. In addition, people who cannot, without undue hardship, arrange for the provision of medical services for themselves and their dependants may be entitled to a medical card. In the assessment process, the Health Service Executive can take into account medical costs incurred by an individual or a family. Those who are not eligible for a medical card may still be able to avail of a GP visit card, which covers the cost of general practice consultation.
The Programme for Government commits to reforming the current public health system by introducing Universal Health Insurance with equal access to care for all. As part of this, the Government is committed to introducing Universal GP Care within its first term of office.
Primary legislation is required to give effect to this commitment. The Department of Health is currently drafting legislation to provide for the phased introduction of a universal GP service without fees in line with the commitment set out in the Programme for Government. Initially it is intended to extend GP cover without fees to persons with illnesses or disabilities to be prescribed by regulations under the new legislation. It is my intention to have the Bill published and enacted before the summer recess.
Question No. 15 answered with Question No. 12.
Public Procurement Contracts
Patrick Deering
Question:16 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the disquiet surrounding the ongoing Health Service Executive tender for enhanced home care services and the complaints regarding the running of the tender (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24073/12]
The Health Service Executive (HSE) recently finalised a new Procurement Framework, which will be operational shortly. This means that in each Local Health Office area selected providers meeting certain specified standards will be available to deliver home care packages to HSE clients.
The HSE indicate that it is satisfied that the tender has been carried out in accordance with all appropriate EU legislation. There were ninety two tenders received across thirty two lots (Local Health Offices). Twenty six successful tenderers have been identified across these lots, and a comprehensive debriefing process has now been carried out with all unsuccessful service providers, in accordance with procurement legislation and guidelines. This includes addressing, as appropriate, the specific issues raised by the Deputy. The HSE will be finalising Agreements with successful service providers in the coming weeks.
Companies seeking the assistance of consultants in compiling their tender response is a matter for the individual companies concerned.
In respect of alleged collusion, HSE tender documents (including those used in this tender process) specifically exclude collusion between bidders. The HSE issued clear instructions in this regard as part of this tender process.
It should be noted that the outcome of this tender process will not impact on existing service providers, and will only apply to any new home care packages to be assigned during the lifetime of the agreement. The fundamental motivation for this tender was the introduction of improved standards for enhanced home care services for clients nationwide.
European Court of Human Rights Judgments
Clare Daly
Question:17 Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Health the terms of reference of the expert group established as a result of the A, B and C case in the ECHR; and if he will confirm if they will receive oral or written submissions from interested parties [24141/12]
The terms of reference of the Expert Group on the ABC v Ireland Judgment, as approved by Government on 29th November 2011, are as follows:
To examine the A, B and C v Ireland judgment of the European Court of Human Rights;
To elucidate its implications for the provision of health care services to pregnant women in Ireland;
To recommend a series of options on how to implement the judgment taking into account the constitutional, legal, medical, and ethical considerations involved in the formulation of public policy in this area and the over-riding need for speedy action.
The Expert Group is to report back to the Government within six months of establishment by means of a written report. The Group will meet on a periodic basis. I wish to assure the Deputy that the Group may receive written submissions from interested parties and additional relevant experts and professionals.
Primary Care Centres
Seán Crowe
Question:18 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Health if he will revisit the policy of reliance on public-private partnerships for the development of primary care centres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24205/12]
New primary care centres are being procured by the HSE through two different methods, (1) lease agreements with private developers and (2) Exchequer capital funding. There is no "policy" of reliance on public-private partnerships in this regard. I am actively exploring other options regarding the funding of Primary Care Centres.
Question No. 19 answered with Question No. 14.
Hospital Services
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:20 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health the current number of delayed discharges for hospitals in the Dublin South Hospitals’ Group and the equivalent figure for 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24195/12]
I have set out the information requested by the Deputy in the following table. The information was supplied by the Busness Intelligence Unit (BIU) of the Health Service Executive. Due to national industrial relations issues in 2010 data was not collected/provided from February 2010 to June 2010. Therefore the closest comparable figures from 2010 are from July.
|
Delayed Discharges(Source: BIU 23rd April 2012) |
Delayed Discharges(Source: BIU 12th July 2010) |
|
|
1. St. James’s Hospital (SJH) |
90 |
73 |
|
2. St. Vincent’s University Hospital (SVUH) |
66 |
51 |
|
3. St. Columcille’s Hospital (SCH) |
15 |
22 |
|
4. St. Michael’s Hospital, Dun Laoghaire (SMH) |
9 |
11 |
|
5. The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin Incorporating the National Children’s Hospital (AMNCH) |
51 |
51 |
Tobacco-Related Diseases
Sean Fleming
Question:21 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Health the steps he will take to tackle smoking in society before his term of office ends; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24284/12]
Smoking is the greatest single cause of preventable illness and premature death in Ireland, killing over 5,200 people a year. Ireland's public health policy objective in relation to tobacco is to promote and subsequently move towards a tobacco free society. I am committed to moving us closer towards that objective. The Tobacco Policy Review Group will be reporting to me shortly. The report of this group will build on our existing policies and legislation . This group is examining a number of areas which need to be developed or enhanced in order to reduce smoking prevalence in Ireland including the possibility of extending the smoking ban to other areas e.g. educational and health care campuses, playgrounds, public parks, beaches etc. The report will also examine how to develop our cessation services in order to support those people who want to stop smoking. Of major concern to me is the number of young people who are still taking up the habit. The “denormalisation” of smoking within our society is key tool in stopping our children and young people from doing so. To achieve this we must make smoking less attractive to children and increase its social unacceptability. The Deputy will be aware that I recently supported a Private Members Bill, — the Protection of Children’s Health from Tobacco Smoke Bill 2012. The intention of this Bill is to ban people from smoking in cars where there are children present.
Vaccination Programme
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:22 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health if he will set out in full the terms of the indemnity agreement with a company (details supplied) regarding the Pandemrix vaccine; if the company can be called to account financially or in any other manner as a result of the finding that the vaccine is linked to narcolepsy in children vaccinated with it here; if he will investigate the granting of this indemnity; if he will set out the other such agreements with pharmaceutical companies that are in place; if he will review the policy of granting such indemnity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24194/12]
Mary Lou McDonald
Question:30 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Health the assistance that will be given to children suffering from narcolepsy as a result of receiving the Pandemrix vaccine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24193/12]
In response to the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic, the HSE procured two vaccines. The HSE, with the approval of my Department and the Department of Finance, indemnified the suppliers from and against loss and damage in respect of any claim against the supplier arising from or in connection with the use and administration of licensed or unlicensed vaccine supplied except in cases of negligence, breach of duty or wilful misconduct on the part of the supplier. The indemnity clause in relation to the supplier in question is attached.
This was a necessary response in order to ensure that Ireland could access the vaccine as early as possible during the pandemic. All European countries who accessed pandemic vaccines indemnified the companies who supplied them. No similar agreements with pharmaceutical companies are currently in place.
My Department is working closely with the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the Department of Education and Skills to address the needs of those affected by narcolepsy.
The HSE is providing a range of services and supports to those affected including access to rapid diagnosis, clear care pathways, temporary medical cards and reimbursement of expenses incurred.
Multi-disciplinary assessments which will allow the appropriate individualised health and educational supports to be put in place have commenced. The National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) is currently engaging with the HSE and with the individual schools and parents of children concerned to identify and provide educational supports for the children and adolescents affected. In addition reasonable accommodations will be put in place for students with narcolepsy sitting state exams next month.
My Department is considering all other possible supports which may need to be put in place for those affected. A Memorandum for Government setting out the full response to this issue is being prepared for submission in the coming weeks.
I would like to assure the Deputy that this matter continues to be a priority for my Department.
Pharmacy Services
Pearse Doherty
Question:23 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health the procedures in place to ensure a consistent supply of vital prescription drugs to pharmacies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24199/12]
Shortages of essential medicines are currently a cause of concern not just in Ireland but throughout Europe and the rest of the world. It is a global problem affecting health systems in all countries and impacting on patients world-wide. Medicines shortages can be the result of one, several or any combination of factors throughout the pharmaceutical supply chain such as manufacturing difficulties, industry consolidation, and commercial decisions by manufacturers to withdraw unprofitable lines. In some cases pharmaceutical manufacturing is concentrated to such an extent that a production problem in one pharmaceutical plant can have wide-ranging and international impact on health systems throughout the world.
Irish Medicines Regulations place an obligation on both manufacturers and pharmaceutical wholesalers within the limits of their respective responsibilities, to ensure the adequate availability and supply of medicines on the Irish market in order to meet patient needs.
My Department has been engaging with the Irish Medicines Board (IMB), the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI) to identify ways in which the Irish system can manage medicines shortages as effectively as possible in order to minimise the impact on patients. International efforts to effectively manage medicines shortages are also being considered.
Pharmaceutical production is carried out by private enterprises, and the State or my Department can only intervene to a limited extent to prevent medicines shortages occurring. The IMB and HSE continue to work closely to operationally manage medicines shortages when they arise. In addition, the PSI works with the pharmacy profession and has recently published guidance to registered pharmacists on managing medicines shortages. Manufacturers, wholesalers and pharmacies all have responsibility to work together to identify shortages quickly and implement alternative arrangements to meet the needs of patients.
Hospital Procedures
Mary Lou McDonald
Question:24 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Health the assistance that will be given by the Health Service Executive to the women here who received defective PIP breast implants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24192/12]
Joanna Tuffy
Question:174 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Health the advice or assistance being provided to Irish women who have had PIP breast implants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24375/12]
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:199 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the immediate and continuing care which will be provided to all those women who received defective PIP breast implants; if he can confirm that all implant removal procedures will be performed at no cost to the women affected; and for those who want replacement implants, that this will be provided at no cost to them also. [24495/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 24, 174 and 199 together.
The Chief Medical Officer of my Department has met and is engaging with the treating clinics with a view to ensuring that best practice and patient support is paramount in the service provided to concerned recipients of PIP implants. He has discussed the concerns raised by affected clients including access to surgeons for consultation and the provision of full medical records in relation to one of the treating clinics.
The provider concerned has advised that it is addressing the Chief Medical Officer's concerns and is developing a new care plan to provide for an early surgical consultation for all women who have received PIP breast implants, with the option of breast implant removal. The removal of implants will be prioritised according to whether a rupture has occurred or not. Significant detail remains to be clarified and the Chief Medical Officer is continuing to engage with this provider, who has assured him that it accepts that it has a duty of care to the women concerned and that it is fully dedicated to helping its clients as much as it can.
Finally, I must reiterate that the resolution of the implants issue has to be between provider and client and an appropriate solution found between the parties; my Department will continue to encourage all parties to reach an acceptable solution for all concerned.
Health Insurance
Willie O'Dea
Question:25 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that private insurers are designing policies to be less attractive to older persons and thereby evading community rating policies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24301/12]
I am concerned that private health insurance is becoming harder to afford, especially for older people, as insurers increasingly tailor their insurance plans towards younger, healthier customers. I am strongly committed to protecting community rating, whereby older and sicker customers should pay the same amount for the same cover as younger and healthier people. Community Rating means that the level of risk that a particular consumer poses to an insurer does not directly affect the premium paid. It also means that premiums for younger or healthier lives are typically higher than their expected claims would require, whereas for older or less healthy lives, premiums are typically lower than the expected claims would require. It is also useful to note that older people who have been paying health insurance premiums for many years will have supported the older generation when they were younger and could reasonably expect to benefit in a similar way as they themselves now become older.
Community Rating needs a robust system of risk equalisation. Otherwise insurers will have a strong incentive to avoid older customers. Instead they will have a clear incentive to attract and retain only healthy customers who are less likely to make claims. The Interim Scheme of Age-Related Tax Credits and Community Rating Levy was introduced in 2009 in order to provide direct support to community rating. It achieves this by way of a mechanism which provides for a cost subsidy from the young to the old. The Scheme is designed to be Exchequer neutral, neither a cost nor a benefit to the State.
In order to keep down the cost of health insurance for older people, I was pleased to increase significantly the age-related income tax credit for insured persons aged 60 years and over, from 1 January 2012. Without this support, health insurers would have had a strong financial incentive to "segment" the market by offering policies targeted at young people, to the disadvantage of older customers.
The Health Insurance Authority (HIA) is the statutory regulator of the private health insurance market and provides information to consumers regarding their rights and also on health insurance plans and benefits. The HIA plays an important role for customers, both in ensuring that they have accurate information, and in enforcing the implementation of the law protecting consumers in relation to health insurance and where appropriate it issues enforcement notices to enforce compliance with the Health Insurance Acts. The HIA can be contacted on lo-call number 1850-929166. The HIA's website www.hia.ie has a useful plan comparison tool which assists in finding suitable and competitive health insurance plans.
In addition, I am keen to explore other available measures to limit the costs related to health insurance. I have agreed with the three commercial health insurers to establish a Consultative Forum on Health Insurance, to tackle issues of mutual concern. This Forum has been established with a focus on generating ideas which would help address health insurance costs, and the insurers have agreed to work cooperatively in driving down costs related to health insurance and to identify savings that could be achieved by both public and private hospitals. Bilateral meetings have taken place with each insurer where they have brought forward their own ideas for cost savings in the market. The Forum will also give a voice to the insurers in the development of the new Universal Health Insurance model. I have also made it clear to the health insurers that I believe that significant savings can still be made, the effect of which can be to minimise the need for increases in premiums. In this regard, VHI has commissioned consultants to carry out a utilisation management review of their claims. The review has commenced and will provide a detailed report on the advantages and disadvantages of moving towards greater utilisation management, a cost benefit analysis and a detailed plan on how this might be achieved including the timelines involved, costs and potential savings, if any, that could be achieved.
The Government's clear objective is for the health insurance market to remain as competitive and affordable as possible, as we move towards a new system of Universal Health Insurance. Under Universal Health Insurance, everyone will be insured for health care and the current unfair discrimination between public and private patients will be removed.
Hospital Staff
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:26 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the extent to which it has been possible to put in place structures whereby the requisite number of junior hospital doctors become available to hospitals throughout the country on graduation from medical school having particular regard to the dual need of the health service and the need for medical graduates to obtain first hand experience in an environment with which they are familiar; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24189/12]
I have forwarded this query to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy.
Health Services
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:27 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if he will intervene with the Health Service Executive to ensure the continued access of voluntary groups (details supplied) to the St. Felim’s complex, Cavan town; if, in the event of there being no willingness, for whatever reason, on the part of the HSE to reverse its notice to quit directive, that he will insist on the HSE offering access to alternative suitable premises in the Cavan town area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24070/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Food Safety
Dessie Ellis
Question:28 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Health the progress, if any, he has made with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety in the North (details supplied), regarding the development of the role of Safefood and the Food Safety Promotion Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24211/12]
To explore the scope for greater efficiencies and to eliminate waste, both my Department and our counterparts in Northern Ireland are conducting reviews on the roles and responsibilities of organisations working in the food safety, diet and nutrition areas in our respective jurisdictions. These will help clarify the role to be undertaken by Food Safety Promotion Board (FSPB) and will inform our consideration of their Business Plan. It is expected that the DHSSPS review will be completed by end-June 2012 with my Department's review to be completed soon after. It has been agreed that approval of FSPB's Business Plan should await the outcome of these reviews and that they be brought to the North-South Ministerial Council for approval at the earliest opportunity thereafter.
Hospitals Building Programme
John Browne
Question:29 Deputy John Browne asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the construction of the acute North Eastern Regional Hospital, County Meath; the funding available and planning requirements; if he is proposing a public private partnership arrangement to fund the hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24272/12]
Following the completion of the Comprehensive Expenditure Review by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in 2011, I announced that funding would support the delivery of the new Children's Hospital and the associated Paediatric Ambulatory and Urgent Care Centre in AMiNCH Tallaght; the replacement of the Central Mental Hospital and its associated facilities; and the National Project for Radiation Oncology. All care programmes would be supported in accordance with the commitments in the Programme for Government with particular attention on primary care.
Any capital development must be considered in the context of the overall HSE capital programme. This multi-annual programme is developed over a rolling five year period. The Executive is required to prioritise the capital infrastructure projects within its overall capital funding allocation taking into account the existing capital commitments and costs to completion over the period. It is essential to assess all projects, other than those where existing contractual commitments are in place, on their merits, to ensure that the limited capital funding available goes to those developments which are of highest national importance.
A draft capital plan for the period 2012-2016 has been submitted to my Department. My Department is reviewing the proposals and following up with the HSE where further details may be required. 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.
Question No. 30 answered with Question No. 22.
Health Service Staff
Martin Ferris
Question:31 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health if he will confirm that a FETAC level 5 qualification is not required for long-standing care staff including multi-task assistants and or carers on night duty in community hospitals or otherwise; the qualifications required for such staff; if such standards are applied consistently across the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24217/12]
Under the Health Act 2007, statutory responsibility is given to the Chief Inspector of Social Services, part of the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA), for the independent inspection and registration of certain categories of designated centres. This includes residential care settings for older people. This responsibility is underpinned by a comprehensive quality framework comprising the Health Act 2007, the Health Act 2007 (Care and Welfare of Residents in Designated Centres for Older People) Regulations 2009, as amended, the Health Act 2007 (Registration of Designated Centres for Older People) Regulations 2009 and the National Quality Standards for Residential Care Settings for Older People in Ireland. Standard 24 requires that “Staff receive induction and continued professional development and appropriate supervision”. The underlying criteria requires that “All newly recruited care staff and those in post less than one year commence training to FETAC Level 5 or equivalent within two years of taking up employment. Long standing care staff have their competency and skills assessed to determine their need for further training and suitable arrangements are put in place to meet their identified needs”.
HIQA commenced this registration and inspection regime for all long stay residential homes for older people, public, private and voluntary in 2009.
Medical Cards
John Halligan
Question:32 Deputy John Halligan asked the Minister for Health the reason a person in Dublin, participating in the fair deal scheme, has had their medical card taken away when (details supplied), the only way to try and get the medical card is for the person to resubmit all these income details and go through the lengthy reassessment process while being charged by the nursing home for incontinence wear, medication and frequent visits to the doctor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24223/12]
Richard Boyd Barrett
Question:55 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Health the reason a person (details supplied) in Dublin, participating in the fair deal scheme, has had their medical card taken away when, as a participant in the scheme they are liable to pay 80% of their income to the nursing home and is therefore effectively below the income limits that would leave them ineligible for a medical card and the way, despite the fact that the Health Service Executive is in charge of both the medical card and the fair deal schemes and therefore have all their income details, the only way to try and get the medical card is for the person to resubmit all these income details and go through the lengthy reassessment process while being charged by the nursing home for incontinence wear, medication and frequent visits to the doctor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24220/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 32 and 55 together.
Under the Health Act 2008, automatic entitlement to a medical card for persons aged 70 and over ended on 31st December 2008. With effect from 1st January 2009, the income thresholds for those aged 70 and over are €700 (gross) per week (€36,500 per year) for a single person and €1,400 (gross) per week (€73,000 per year) for a couple (married couples and couples living together as husband and wife).
In early January 2009, 164,142 letters were sent by the Health Service Executive (HSE) to medical card holders aged 70 or over asking them to inform the Executive by March 2009 if their gross weekly exceeds the specified income thresholds. The person named by the Deputy in this Parliamentary Question declared their income as being above the income threshold and returned their medical card to the HSE and the card was subsequently cancelled.
This person can now submit a new application for a medical card and their application can be considered under the Nation Income Guidelines for Medical Cards / GP Visit Cards where nursing home charges can be taken into consideration. Fully completed application forms received by the central office in PCRS are processed within 15 working days.
Obesity Levels
Seamus Kirk
Question:33 Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Health the steps he will take to tackle obesity in society; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24287/12]
The high levels of obesity in all age groups of the Irish population are of increasing concern to me but of particular concern are the rising levels of obesity in young children. The Growing Up in Ireland Survey, 2011 found that 1 in 4 children as young as 3 years of age are overweight or obese.
The situation in Ireland mirrors the global obesity epidemic, with 61% of Irish adults now overweight or obese. 26% of 9 year old Irish children are overweight or obese. WHO Europe Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative, in which Ireland participated in 2009, found that 23% of 7 year olds are overweight or obese. During 2011 I established a Special Action Group on Obesity comprising key stakeholders, and chaired by my own Department. The group includes a representative from the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, the Department of Education and Skills, the Health Service Executive, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland and Safefood and its remit is to examine and progress a number of issues to address the complex and multi-factorial problem of obesity.
The Special Action Group is concentrating on a specific range of measures including Healthy Eating Guidelines for the Irish population, calorie posting on restaurant menus, restricting the marketing of food and drink high in fat, sugar or salt to children, nutritional labelling, the promotion of physical activity and the detection and treatment of obesity. The Group is working with other Government Departments in a cross-sectoral approach to help halt the rise in overweight and obesity.
Following agreement by SAGO, I am in the process of initiating a Health Impact Assessment on the potential effects of a tax on Sugar Sweetened Drinks which will provide a strong evidence base on this issue. The Institute of Public Health has agreed to lead the HIA Project Group and the WHO Europe has indicated that their nutrition team would be available to my Department to offer guidance. At that point the results will be used as part of the decision.
As part of the work plan of SAGO, in February 2012, I launched a national consultation to seek opinions on the best way of putting calorie information on menus in Ireland. The consultation, which will inform the next steps in the process, was conducted by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland, and gave an opportunity for consumers and the food industry to give their views on how ‘calories on menus' can be best implemented in Ireland. I expect the final outcome of the consultation to be available shortly when SAGO will be in a position to develop an implementation framework for the overall scheme.
The Special Action Group on Obesity is also progressing the following measures:
Revised Food Pyramid / Healthy Eating Guidelines. The Group has revised the Healthy Eating Guidelines, including the Food Pyramid and I will be making these available in the very near future.
Treatment Algorithms. An adult treatment algorithm has been agreed with health care professionals and is now available with the algorithm for children at its final stages of agreement.
Opportunistic screening and monitoring of children. The Special Action Group on Obesity has been discussing opportunistic screening and monitoring with the HSE with a view to earlier detection of overweight and obesity in children. This will improve the identification of overweight children at an earlier age and prevent these children from progressing into the obese category. Obese children will also be identified early and treated.
Marketing of Foods and Drinks to children. My Department has lodged a submission to the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland's consultation on the Code of advertising to Children of foods high in fat, trans-fats, salt and sugar.
The National Physical Activity Plan which will contribute to addressing this major health issue is currently being considered by the Department.
Finally, my Department is developing a new Health and Wellbeing Survey to monitor lifestyles and this will be commenced this year and repeated on an annual basis.
Hospital Accommodation
Mattie McGrath
Question:34 Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health the arrangements he is making to ensure that a number of acute psychiatric beds will be ring-fenced in Kilkenny for patients being transferred from South Tipperary prior to the imminent closure of St. Michael’s Psychiatric Hospital, Clonmel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24072/12]
As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Eating Disorders
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:35 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health if he will introduce standards to regulate psychotherapists and counsellors working in the area of eating disorders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24066/12]
The priority of the Department for the foreseeable future is the statutory registration of the twelve therapy professions covered by the Health and Social Care Professionals Council.
Before statutory registration could be considered for other therapies, such as psychotherapy and counselling, there is a need for each individual therapy to federate so that it can advise, as a single voice, on professional standards. This was a recommendation of the Report of the National Working Group on the Regulation of Complementary Therapists (December 2005).
I am aware that HETAC (Higher Education and Training Awards Council) is currently working with representatives of the professional bodies and of higher education institutions that provide courses in psychotherapy and counselling to determine national standards of knowledge, skill and competence to be required for the award of higher education qualifications in these fields. While academic qualifications are not sufficient in themselves as a means of professional regulation, agreement on academic standards does form a critical building block for any modern regulatory system for professions.
It should be noted that while psychotherapists and counsellors are not subject to professional statutory regulation, they are subject to legislation, similar to other practitioners, including consumer legislation, competition, contract and criminal law.
Services for People with Disabilities
Michael Moynihan
Question:36 Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Health his views on the fact that the Health Service Executive is failing to assess children with disabilities within legal time limits; the consequences of this failure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24297/12]
Part 2 of the Disability Act 2005 was commenced on 1 June 2007 in respect of children aged under 5. It had been intended to have both the Disability Act 2005 and the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 fully implemented during 2010 in respect of children/young people between 5 and 18 years of age. In 2008, the then Government decided in the light of financial circumstances to defer further implementation of the Acts.
Part 2 of the Disability Act 2005, inter alia, provides for an assessment of the needs of eligible applicants occasioned by their disability to be commenced within three months of receipt of an application and completed within a further three months.
There has been a very significant rise in overall activity around the assessment process in recent years. The number of assessment reports completed rose to 3,043 in 2011 (an increase of almost 25% on 2010).
While any delay in assessment or intervention for any child is not desirable, the assessment process under the Disability Act does not have to take place in advance of intervention. The process can take place in parallel with any intervention which is identified as necessary.
While the HSE faces a significant challenge in ensuring timely assessments, given the increasing demand and complexity of cases, it has put a range of measures in place to address this issue.
A major emphasis is being placed on reconfiguring disability services for children into geographically-based early-intervention and school-aged teams as part of the Progressing Disability Services for Children and Young People Programme. €1million in additional funding has been allocated in 2012 to help address the needs of children with autism and special needs. This is being focussed on addressing waiting times for specialist therapy services for children who have been diagnosed with autism and on developing early intervention teams.
Targeted action plans have been put in place by the HSE in every region to address delays in assessments including: prioritising assessments, holding additional clinics, contracting the private sector to conduct assessments and reconfiguring resources to target areas of greatest need. These are monitored on a monthly basis by the HSE centrally.
The number of assessments overdue for completion nationally at the end of each quarter has fallen steadily since the third quarter of 2010. There has been a fall of 25% nationally over this period. One region has seen a reduction of over 37% in overdue assessments in the same period.
The Department and the HSE will continue to work together to develop more sustainable approaches within existing resources in this context.
Question No. 37 answered with Question No. 6.
Treatment of Rare Diseases
Jonathan O'Brien
Question:38 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Health the progress, if any, made on proposals for establishing a national centre for rare diseases and a national plan for rare diseases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24215/12]
The current priority for my Department in relation to this issue is focussing on the development of a national plan for rare diseases. Ireland has been supportive of the EU proposals on rare disease which concluded with a council recommendation in June 2009. The end point is that countries are recommended to develop plans or strategies preferably by the end of 2013. We are now well advanced in developing this work.
In April 2011, I established a National Steering Group to develop a policy framework for the prevention, detection and treatment of rare diseases based on the principles of high quality care, equity and to be patient centred. The policy will operate over a 5 year period, take account of the Council Recommendation on Rare Diseases (2009) and define priority actions subject to resource availability.
The National Steering Group identified a number of areas relating to rare diseases which it is currently considering including centres of expertise, access to appropriate medication and technology, orphan drug development, research and information and patient empowerment and support.
An integral part of an effective policy framework will be the development of a dedicated HSE clinical programme. The HSE has agreed to establish a National Clinical Programme for Rare Diseases which aims to improve and standardise patient care by bringing together clinical disciplines and enabling them to share innovative solutions to deliver greater benefits to HSE service users. I understand that arrangements are currently being made by the HSE to put in place management and clinical leads for the new programme. The HSE expects to finalise these arrangements in the short term. In addition the steering group is planning to consult with stakeholders on the 11th of June next regarding progress to date and preparation for the final phase of the plan's development. I expect the plan to be submitted to me later this year.
Positive Ageing Strategy
Niall Collins
Question:39 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Health if he intends to publish the Positive Ageing Strategy this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24279/12]
The Programme for Government has committed to completing and implementing the National Positive Ageing Strategy so that older people are recognised, supported and enabled to live independent full lives.
The Strategy will set the strategic direction for future policies, programmes and services for older people in Ireland. It will set out a common framework for the development of operational plans by a number of Government Departments which will clearly set out each Department's objectives relating to older people. Mechanisms designed to monitor the implementation of measures contained in operational plans will also be included in the Strategy. However, I do not envisage that the Strategy will propose new service developments. Rather it will set the strategic direction for future policies, programmes and services for older people in Ireland.
A considerable amount of preparatory work has already been completed. The drafting of the Strategy will proceed within the Department within the constraints of available staff and other priorities. At this stage I envisage the Strategy will be completed and published as soon as possible within these constraints.
Health Insurance
John McGuinness
Question:40 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health when he expects to publish the White Paper on universal health insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24295/12]
The Government is committed to fundamental reform of healthcare in Ireland that will deliver a single tier health system, supported by universal health insurance, where access is based on need, not income.
A number of key stepping stones are vital to the introduction of universal health insurance. Significant work is already underway on these, including:
strengthening the primary care sector to deliver universal primary care with the removal of cost as a barrier;
reform of the acute hospital sector, including the work of the Special Delivery Unit (SDU) to unblock access to acute services and the establishment of hospital groups; and
the introduction of the more transparent and efficient "Money Follows the Patient" funding mechanism for acute hospitals.
When these key building blocks have been put in place, the health system will be ready for universal health insurance.
In February, I established an Implementation Group on Universal Health Insurance which will assist in developing detailed implementation plans for universal health insurance and driving implementation of various elements of the health reform programme. The initial work of the Group will focus on key workstreams, including hospital financing, hospital structures, regulation of the hospital sector, reform of the private health insurance market and the overarching design of the universal health insurance system.
The Group will also assist my Department in preparing a White Paper on Financing Universal Health Insurance, which will outline the estimated costs and financing mechanisms associated with the introduction of universal health insurance.
Preparation of the White Paper is a complex and important process. It will involve significant analysis of pricing and funding mechanisms, and substantial financial modelling to support different design options. It will also need to estimate the costs of UHI under different scenarios. The White Paper will be published as early as possible within the Government's term of office.
Suicide Incidence
Mick Wallace
Question:41 Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Health if, in the context of near epidemic levels of suicide in County Wexford, he will consider allocating funding to a proposal (details supplied) to develop a mental health recovery and support centre in order that it might be set up in the county, as a matter of urgency; his plans to increase mental health spending as a percentage of overall health spending to the level recommended by A Vision for Change; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24344/12]
As the first part of the Deputy's question refers to an operational matter within the HSE, I have asked the Executive to reply directly to the Deputy on this issue. The Deputy will appreciate that the current economic environment presents a significant challenge for the health system generally in delivering services. However, mental health is being treated as a priority in so far as we can. Total funding for mental health in 2012 is in the region of €707 million. Like all other care areas, efficiency and other savings were required in 2012 from the Mental Health Service. However, in Budget 2012, a special allocation of €35m for mental health was announced in line with the Programme for Government commitments. Funding from this special allocation will be used primarily to strengthen Community Mental Health Teams in both Adult and Children's mental health services which will ensure, at a minimum, that at least one of each mental health professional discipline is represented on every team. This is very much in keeping with the policy set out in a Vision for Change.
Some of the funding will also be used to advance activities in the area of suicide prevention and response to self-harm presentations and to initiate the provision of psychological and counselling services in primary care, specifically for people with mental health problems. Some provision will also be made to facilitate the re-location of mental health service users from institutional care to more independent living arrangements in their communities, in line with A Vision for Change.
Over 400 additional staff will be recruited to support these initiatives. It is intended that the additional resources will be rolled out in conjunction with a scheme of appropriate clinical care programmes based on an early intervention and recovery approach.
Palliative Care Services
Stephen S. Donnelly
Question:42 Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Health the current state of reforms to palliative care services; if he will explain the discrepancy between the provision and funding of palliative care services in counties in which good practice is followed, such as Limerick, and counties such as Wicklow, in which palliative care services are inadequate; his plans and targets for equalising service levels between counties or regions. [16913/12]
The Health Service Executive acknowledges that historical differences exist between regions in the provision of Palliative Care services. The HSE's Palliative Care Services — Five Year/ Medium Term Development Framework was published in 2009 in order to detail the required actions and initiatives necessary to address the gaps in palliative care service provision.
The Executive is currently engaged in a process of increasing and developing capacity within existing resources and developing skills in community care and care of the elderly settings specifically in relation to palliative care services. It is also taking the opportunity afforded by integration to identify ways of enabling the delivery of these agreed national priorities. The HSE aims to ensure that patients with life-limiting conditions and their families can easily access a level of palliative care services that is appropriate to their needs, regardless of age, care setting or diagnosis.
The HSE Service Plan 2012 provides funding of €78m for Palliative Care. Palliative care is additionally funded through both acute and community services.
It should be noted that expected activity in the 2012 Service Plan indicates waiting times for access to in-patient specialist palliative care will be broadly similar in Dublin Mid-Leinster (DML) (including Wicklow) and the West (which includes Limerick). In the West it is expected that 86% of patients would have access within seven days while the corresponding figure is 83% in DML. Figures are also comparable for access within seven days to community services. The HSE Regional Service Plan 2012 for DML indicates that given the cost pressure within the Palliative Care Services in DML during 2012 the priority will be to maximise available resources to provide the best possible services for care recipients.
Hospital Services
Jonathan O'Brien
Question:43 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Health the number of delayed discharges for hospitals in the Southern Hospitals Group and the equivalent figure for 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24214/12]
Dessie Ellis
Question:59 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Health the current number of delayed discharges for hospitals in the Dublin North Hospitals’ Group and the equivalent figure for 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24210/12]
Peadar Tóibín
Question:65 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Health the current number of delayed discharges for hospitals in the North Eastern Hospitals Group and the equivalent figure for 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24212/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 43, 59 and 65 together.
As these are service matters, they have been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Nursing Home Repayment Scheme
Michael Colreavy
Question:44 Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Health the terms of reference, scope and duration of the review of the nursing home support fair deal scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24200/12]
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn
Question:45 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Health if public consultation will form a part of the review of the fair deal scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24206/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 44 and 45 together.
The Nursing Homes Support Scheme was introduced in October 2009 with a commitment to review its operation after three years. The reason for allowing this period to elapse is to ensure that trends and statistics will be available in order to inform the work.
The review of the Scheme will look at, amongst other issues:
the ongoing sustainability of the scheme,
the relative cost of public versus private provision,
the effectiveness of current methods of negotiating price in private nursing homes and setting price in public nursing homes, and
the balance of funding between residential and community care.
The terms of reference for the review are being finalised at present. The Department of Health will be seeking tenders through the public procurement process for the carrying out of the review. This process takes approximately 4 months. It is also intended to carry out a public consultation over the summer to inform the review.
It is anticipated that the review itself will take approximately three months to complete. It is expected that the review will commence in the last quarter of this year and be completed in early 2013.
Health Service Reviews
Peadar Tóibín
Question:46 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Health if the Health Service Executive review of domestic violence and sexual assault services will include public consultation; when it is expected to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24213/12]
This is an internal review by the HSE of Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence services and will not include a public consultation. It is envisaged that by year end the review will be completed and a strategic plan for the future provision and configuration of services in this area will be developed.
Hospital Services
John Halligan
Question:47 Deputy John Halligan asked the Minister for Health if cuts are planned to radiology services at St. Columcille’s Hospital, Loughlinstown, County Dublin; if so, if he will provide details of these cuts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24222/12]
Richard Boyd Barrett
Question:51 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Health if cuts are planned to radiology services at St. Columcille’s Hospital, Loughlinstown, County Dublin; if so, if he will provide details of these cuts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24221/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 51 together.
As these are service matters, they have been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
General Medical Services Scheme
Seán Crowe
Question:48 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Health the progress, if any, made on developing a new general practitioner contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24204/12]
The Programme for Government provides for the introduction of a new General Medical Services (GMS) contract with General Practitioners (GPs) with an increased emphasis on the management of chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. It is envisaged that the new contract, when finalised, will focus on prevention and will include a requirement for GPs to provide care as part of integrated multidisciplinary Primary Care Teams.
The Universal Primary Care Project Team, which involves officials from the Department and the HSE, is examining the changes that need to be made to the GMS contract to facilitate the introduction of Universal Primary Care.
Patient Safety Authority
Brian Stanley
Question:49 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Health the progress, if any, on the establishment of a patient safety authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24203/12]
My Department is continuing to consider the options and possible organisational structures of the Patient Safety Authority (PSA) taking account of the international experience and the existing structures and organisations in the Irish system. The PSA is a key component of the Health Reform Programme and, therefore, its role and inter-relationship with the health system needs to be carefully designed and developed. It is not possible, at this stage, to indicate when a PSA will be established.
Departmental Strategy Statements
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn
Question:50 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Health the reason his Department’s Statement of Strategy 2011-2014 was published in May 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24207/12]
My Department's previous Statement of Strategy covered the period 2008-2010. Under the Public Service Management Act 1997 Departments are required to produce a new Statement of Strategy every three years and within six months of the appointment of a new Minister and, accordingly, my Department prepared a draft Statement of Strategy following my appointment as Minister for Health in 2011. Following preparation of a draft, consultations with the Department of the Taoiseach were necessary and publication of all Departmental Strategy Statements followed the finalisation of the 2012 Annual Review of the Programme for Government.
Question No. 51 answered with Question No. 47.
Hospital Services
Dara Calleary
Question:52 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Health the reason his decision on hospital reconfiguration has been delayed until the middle of the year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24277/12]
Sandra McLellan
Question:62 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Health the date on which the framework for smaller hospitals document will be published; the process by which this document has been drafted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24208/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 52 and 62 together.
I want to ensure that as many services as possible can be provided safely and appropriately in smaller, local hospitals. On this basis, the organisation of hospital services nationally, regionally and locally will be informed by the ongoing development of the HSE Clinical Programmes. The Framework for the future development of smaller hospitals has been drafted by a joint HSE/Departmental group. Consultation with all stakeholders, including patients and public representatives, will be an integral part of the process of implementing the framework for smaller hospitals.
This framework will demonstrate clearly that the future of smaller hospitals is secure. It will set out what services can and should be delivered safely by these hospitals in the interest of better outcomes for patients. I am currently examining the Framework in the context of the overall reorganisation of the health services. That includes the development of hospital groups. The changes that will and must take place will have a considerable impact on how our hospital services are aligned. As Minister for Health I am eager to initiate improvements to our hospital system, however due consideration must be given to the Framework to ensure that when implemented it will optimise the significant resources smaller hospitals have to offer.
It is my intention to publish the Framework when this process has been completed.
Tobacco Products Directive
Luke 'Ming' Flanagan
Question:53 Deputy Luke “Ming” Flanagan asked the Minister for Health if the manufacturers and importers of tobacco products have fulfilled their duties under Article 6 section 1 of the Tobacco Products Directive 2001/37/EC, transposed into Irish law via the European Communities (Manufacture, Presentation and Sale of Tobacco Products) Regulations 2003, that is, submit the ingredients in each of their products by brand and type, and where such details may be accessed now; further in the event that the tobacco companies have not fulfilled the requirements under the directive, the steps he will take to ensure that the National Tobacco Control Office will force the companies to do so; the steps he will take to overcome the problems of the past whereby various scientific formats and scales were a stumbling block to collating the data from the various companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24068/12]
As indicated by the Deputy there is a legal obligation on tobacco manufacturing companies and tobacco importers to provide a list to the Health Service Executive (HSE) of all ingredients used in the manufacture of their tobacco products. This is a legal requirement set out in Directive 2001/37/EC and given effect to in Irish law by S.I. No. 425/2003 — European Communities (Manufacture, Presentation and Sale of Tobacco Products) Regulations 2003. My Department is liaising with the National Tobacco Control Office, HSE in relation to this and other tobacco related matters. I understand from the HSE that submissions have been received from the majority of the companies concerned. The HSE is writing to the remaining companies requesting this information. Companies are requested to submit the data in accordance with the Practical Guide issued by the EC in 2007 which provides for a common reporting format.
Health Services
Michael McGrath
Question:54 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health when he expects to finalise his plans to close 898 community nursing unit beds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24292/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Question No. 55 answered with Question No. 32.
Question No. 56 answered with Question No. 12.
Medical Cards
Michael Healy-Rae
Question:57 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if he will consider reverting to the older system of processing medical cards; that is, each county processes their applications. [24071/12]
I acknowledge that a number of difficulties arose with the processing of medical cards at the centralised application office in the final quarter of last year. These difficulties gave rise to a very large backlog and long delays for both new applicants and medical card renewals. A number of factors gave rise to these problems including:
the processing of medical cards was centralised before the necessary resources were in place,
a significant backlog already existed prior to centralisation,
poor communication with medical card applicants and the public, limited support from local health offices and poor communication between local offices and the centralised service,
and poor practices and procedures in the handling, filing and processing of medical card documentation.
These issues were a matter of serious concern to me and I had a number of meetings with the HSE over the last six months to raise my concerns. As a result, the HSE has introduced a number of changes in recent months to the administration of the medical card application system. These include:
increased staffing levels in the centralised processing service and in respect of medical card appeals,
improvements to how medical card renewals are assessed and the frequency by which they are assessed,
increased flexibility for GPs to add certain categories of patients to their GMS list,
the fast-tracking of backlogged cases, and cases where documentation has been mis-filed.
While a number of customer service and communication issues remain to be addressed, the HSE has been making good progress in eliminating the backlog and preventing further backlogs occurring. A backlog of 58,000 applications from last year has been completely cleared. The HSE receives up to 50,000 applications per month and over 90% of complete applications are processed within 15 days. A review of medical card processing has been undertaken by PricewaterhouseCoopers which contains a number of recommendations that the HSE is considering.
I continue to monitor the situation and meet with the HSE on a regular basis to address any issues which may arise in respect of medical cards.
Question No. 58 answered with Question No. 10.
Question No. 59 answered with Question No. 43.
North-South Feasibility Study
Pearse Doherty
Question:60 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health the progress, if any, made in implementing the recommendations of the North-South Feasibility Study on co-operation in the provision of health services on the island of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24198/12]
The North-South Feasibility Study, finalised in 2009, examined the potential for joint co-operation in health across an extensive range of health and social care services. It set out 10 priority recommendations and many of these are already being taken forward. Areas of ongoing collaboration include — child protection, cancer research, health promotion, suicide prevention, radiotherapy services, paediatric congenital cardiac surgery and a range of initiatives under the Interreg IVA funding initiative. The Study was published on the websites of the Irish Department of Health and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety in Northern Ireland last December.
At a departmental level co-operation between the two jurisdictions is active and ongoing. "Transforming Your Care: a Review of Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland." also recommends co-operation on a number of key issues. My officials are liaising with their counterparts in the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety in Northern Ireland on how to progress these issues.
I am committed to working together with my Northern colleagues on issues of common concern and benefit. This is of particular relevance in the current time when both jurisdictions are implementing change and pushing forward health reform.
National Asset Management Agency
Éamon Ó Cuív
Question:61 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Health if he has initiated any discussions with the National Asset Management Agency regarding the use of their buildings for primary care centres or the Department of Justice regarding the use of unused Garda stations as primary care centres; the outcomes of these discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24298/12]
The development of primary care is central to this Government's objective to deliver a high quality, integrated and cost effective health system. The Programme for Government states that primary care will be an immediate priority area. The development of primary care centres, through a combination of public and private investment, will facilitate the delivery of multi-disciplinary primary care and represents a tangible re-focussing of the health service to deliver care in the most appropriate and lowest cost setting.
Within the context of its commercial remit, NAMA advises that it is at all times open to proposals which can contribute to the achievement of broader social and economic objectives and has committed to giving first option to public bodies on the purchase of property which may be suitable for their purposes. The development of the primary care centre network is currently under review. Its delivery must be informed by needs analysis, with priority given to areas of urban and rural deprivation. Therefore it is important to recognise that not all NAMA controlled buildings and sites are appropriately located or suitable. The outcome of this review requires my approval with the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.
Both Minister Shortall and I have had meetings with NAMA with a view to building on potential synergies between NAMA controlled land and property and the requirements of the health sector, not just in the area of primary care, but in other areas also. The Health Service Executive and NAMA have been engaging constructively in that regard in recent months and will continue to do so.
Minister Shortall has had informal discussions with the OPW regarding unused Garda stations and other buildings. A follow up meeting at ministerial level is due to take place shortly.
Question No. 62 answered with Question No. 52.
Health Services
Martin Ferris
Question:63 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure continuing and adequate funding for the established organisations for those women whose health has been damaged by infected blood products; the meetings he has held to address the funding issue and their outcome; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24216/12]
The HSE funds over 2,500 organisation, which operate over 4,100 separate funding arrangements to a value of approximately €3.3 billion. These organisations vary in scale and complexity, ranging from large acute hospitals to local community based organisations providing social care services. The HSE National Governance Framework regarding funding of non-statutory organisations commenced in 2009 and was rolled out to all agencies in 2010.
The Framework sets out the requirement that all agencies in receipt of State funding must sign a Service Level Agreement (SLA). This policy was put in place to ensure accountability, probity and good governance in relation to spending of State funding. The HSE had made the organisations referred to by the Deputy aware of the Framework in 2008. Part 1 of the SLA document is generic to all organisations and cannot be changed and Part 2 allows for specific details of the organisation's role and services to be inserted.
Signing the SLA does not compromise the confidentiality of the work, or members of an organisation.
Discussions are continuing with the organisations referred to by the Deputy regarding their SLAs for 2012 and funding has been provided by the HSE to meet fixed cost commitments, pending agreement to the terms of the SLAs.
Hospital Services
Clare Daly
Question:64 Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Health the reason there is no mechanism to establish a clinical review of the level of care in hospitals; and the steps he will take to ensure accountability in that regard. [24142/12]
As Minister for Health one of my primary objectives is to embed patient safety and quality standards into the health services.
In this regard the HSE National Service Plan 2012 commits to establishing a culture of continuous quality improvement through effective governance structures, clinical effectiveness, outcome measurements, and evaluation at the centre of its approach to improving services.
I have arranged for the question to be forwarded to the HSE who will provide a more detailed response directly to the Deputy.
Question No. 65 answered with Question No. 43.
Northern Ireland Issues
Dessie Ellis
Question:66 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the work he is undertaking to see that the British Government implements Article 20 of the Weston Park Agreement. [24354/12]
The various measures included in the package agreed at Weston Park in August 2001 addressed four issues to assist in the successful implementation of the Good Friday Agreement: policing, normalisation, the stability of the institutions and decommissioning. There has been huge progress made in all of these areas and this progress was highlighted by a number of important milestones during 2011. April 2011 saw the one year anniversary of the successful devolution of justice and policing to the Northern Ireland Assembly. On 5 May 2011 the Northern Ireland Assembly elections took place, the first time that a full Assembly term had been served out since the signing of the Good Friday Agreement. The orderly and non-contentious manner in which the elections were held underlined that politics and society in Northern Ireland has continued the transition towards normality. November 2011 marked the ten year anniversary of the establishment of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI). Proposed draft legislation by the British Government to deal with this specific issue as referred to in paragraph 20 of the Weston Park accord was formally withdrawn by the then Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Peter Hain MP, on 11 January 2006. The draft legislation, the Northern Ireland (Offences) Bill , had been opposed by the majority of the Northern Ireland Assembly parties and the Secretary of State was compelled to withdraw the legislation when the only supporting party, Sinn Féin, could not accept certain aspects of the proposed legislation.
The Government remains committed to the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement.
Dessie Ellis
Question:67 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the work he is undertaking to encourage the release of a person (details supplied) under the terms of the Weston Park Agreement. [24355/12]
It is our understanding that the prisoner in question has initiated legal proceedings to secure an early release and judgment on this is pending. It would therefore not be appropriate for me to comment any further at this stage other than to confirm that officials from my Department continue to monitor developments very closely.
Human Rights Issues
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:68 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent if any to which he unilaterally or in consort with his EU and UN colleagues has managed to ensure that former Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, now in prison, is receiving adequate medical treatment in accordance with international human rights and humanitarian criteria; the extent, if known, of visits she has had from medical practitioners and-or human rights observers since her imprisonment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24444/12]
The case of former Prime Minister of Ukraine, Yulia Tymoshenko, is matter of deep concern to Ireland and to the European Union. The Deputy will be aware that Ms Tymoshenko was sentenced on 11 October 2011 to seven years in prison, and was the subject of a three-year ban on holding high public office and an order to repay €130m to the state-owned gas company having been convicted of exceeding her authority as Prime Minister when concluding a gas deal with Russia in 2009. Her verdict was upheld in December 2011.
Since Ms Tymoshenko was imprisoned, there have been troubling reports about the state of her health, as well as deeply serious allegations that she was subject to physical mistreatment when being transferred to a prison hospital last month. I understand that she is currently being treated by an independent medical doctor from a German hospital. Ms Tymoshenko was visited by the then Ombudsman and Ukrainian Parliamentary Commissioner for Human Rights on 24 April. A visit by two rapporteurs on Ukraine from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe is expected this week. I urge the Ukrainian authorities, as a minimum, to facilitate all such medical and human rights related visits.
The High Representative for Human Rights of the European Union, Catherine Ashton, has called on the Ukrainian authorities to ensure the full respect of the right of Ms Tymoshenko to adequate medical assistance in an appropriate institution and that the European Union Ambassador, accompanied by independent medical specialists be allowed to visit Ms Tymoshenko in prison. I fully support that call.
More broadly, the EU has drawn attention to its concerns about the number of instances of what appear to be politically motivated trials and convictions and this message was reiterated yesterday in the EU-Ukraine Cooperation Council in Ukraine. The EU has stressed that this issue, and the need to examine promptly and impartially any complaints of torture or other forms of cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment, as well as ensuring adequate medical attention for those in detention, including Ms Tymoshenko, will be central to any further progress in advancing relations between the EU and Ukraine. I have strongly supported this position. Ireland has long favoured closer ties between the EU and Ukraine, which are clearly to the benefit of both sides. However, recent events have, unfortunately, undermined the progress that we all wish to see.
In the meantime, the issue of the conditions of Ms Tymoshenko and the wider rule of law questions raised by her imprisonment and that of other political figures will remain high on the EU's agenda. Indeed, along with my EU Foreign Minister colleagues, I engaged in a thorough discussion of this issue at the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels on Monday, 14 January.
Passport Applications
Finian McGrath
Question:69 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding a passport application in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [24446/12]
A passport was issued to the person in question on 11 May 2012.
Foreign Conflicts
Aodhán Ó Ríordáin
Question:70 Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding the situation in Sudan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24457/12]
Finian McGrath
Question:74 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will support full humanitarian access to the people of South Kordofan in Sudan. [24539/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 70 and 74 together.
The Government shares the grave concerns expressed by aid agencies regarding the humanitarian situation in the South Kordofan and the Nuba Mountains regions of Sudan. Prolonged fighting since the beginning of June 2011 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Sudanese People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM North) in Sudan's South Kordofan State has claimed an untold number of lives and has severely affected over 300,000 people. According to the UN, the total number of refugees from South Kordofan and Blue Nile states seeking refuge in neighbouring South Sudan now stands at over 129,000 people, putting pressure on an already limited humanitarian response capacity in the world's youngest State.
Ireland, together with our EU partners, is responding to the situation and is supporting efforts to bring an end to the continuing conflict in the region. We are particularly concerned about the issue of humanitarian access for NGOs and international relief agencies to the areas affected by conflict. We have raised the issue of humanitarian access at EU level, as well as at other international fora.
I note that the correspondence referred to by the Deputy states that Trócaire welcomes the EU Foreign Affairs Council Conclusions on Sudan and South Sudan adopted at the meeting which I attended meeting on 23 April. These Conclusions were intended to send a clear message to the Governments of Sudan and South Sudan, and their proxy military forces, to bring an end to violence and to re-engage in the negotiation process. In these conclusions, EU Ministers called on the Government of Sudan and the SPLM North to engage in an inclusive political process to resolve the conflict in Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile.
The EU has consistently and repeatedly emphasised the urgent need for humanitarian access to civilians in its interventions on the situation in Sudan and South Sudan. In January last, with Ireland's encouragement, European Union Foreign Ministers urged the Government of Sudan to allow safe and unhindered access for international humanitarian workers to all civilians and reiterated its readiness to provide humanitarian assistance to all those in need. The EU also emphasised that the ongoing conflicts in Southern Kordofan, Blue Nile and Darfur remain obstacles to moving forward with the full range of supports that the EU would like to provide to Sudan. The issue of humanitarian access and the need for Sudan to fulfil its obligations under international humanitarian law have also been emphasised in statements made on behalf of the EU by the High Representative, Catherine Ashton, on the conflict in South Kordofan, including most recently in her statement of 3 April. Ireland fully aligns itself with these statements.
Despite the serious challenges, humanitarian agencies are managing to gain limited access to some vulnerable communities in South Kordofan. Both the World Food Programme and the United Nations Children's Fund have provided assistance to displaced people and affected host communities. Through Irish Aid in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Government has recently allocated €2 million for the UN-managed Common Humanitarian Funds for both the Republic of Sudan and South Sudan. These funds are being used to help UN agencies target the most critical humanitarian needs across both countries, including in areas beset by conflict and affected by displacement from Blue Nile and South Kordofan. A further €1.22 million has been made available to Irish NGOs for programmes in Sudan and South Sudan under the annual Humanitarian Programme Planning (HPP) funding scheme. We are actively examining the possibility of providing further support as access conditions improve and the needs on the ground become clearer.
The Government will continue to monitor closely the situation in South Kordofan and the Nuba Mountains, and along with our EU partners we will continue to press for unrestricted humanitarian access to affected civilians.
Official Engagements
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:71 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has met President-Elect Francois Hollande since his election; his plans regarding same; if he expects significant changes to the Treaty on Stability, Coordination and Governance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24476/12]
I visited Paris on Sunday 6 May upon the election of President-elect Hollande in my capacity as leader of the Labour Party. I have also had a number of informal exchanges with members of his transition team. The Taoiseach spoke by telephone to President-elect Hollande on 9 May and congratulated him on his victory in the presidential elections in France. Their discussions focused on the referendum on 31 May on the Stability Treaty, and the reorientation of the European agenda towards a strong growth future. They will meet at the informal dinner of Heads of State and Government on 23 May which will focus on the growth agenda.
Officials from my own Department and from the Department of the Taoiseach have been in close contact with the team of President-elect Hollande. It is our clear understanding that the substance of the Stability Treaty is not to be reopened for negotiation. President-elect Hollande has consistently stressed the importance of developing a growth dimension to EU policy in addition to the provisions in the Stability Treaty. This is an approach I have long argued for, is urgently needed and is to be very much welcomed.
Foreign Conflicts
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:72 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide an update on the situation in Syria in particular with reference to the operation and reports of the UN monitors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24477/12]
I am gravely concerned at the current situation in Syria, against a backdrop of escalating violence and the continued difficulties in ensuring adherence to the 12 April ceasefire and promoting full compliance by all sides with the six-point peace plan of UN/Arab League Joint Special Envoy, Kofi Annan. The situation was one of the major items discussed at the Foreign Affairs Council on 14 May which I attended. The Council expressed its deep concern about the continuing violence, including recent deadly bomb attacks such as that which claimed an estimated 55 lives in Damascus on 10 May. The Council also recalled its full support for the Annan peace plan, welcomed the progress to date in deployment of members of the UN Supervision Mission to Syria (UNSMIS) and urged continued prompt deployment of the full mission totalling 300 observers. The Council also recalled the responsibility of the Syrian government for both the safety and security of UNSMIS personnel as well as for ensuring the full and fast deployment of the mission and its effective operation.
The Annan peace plan represents the only realistic option at present for ending the current wave of violence and promoting a peaceful political transition within Syria. Ireland and its EU partners emphasize the need for full and immediate compliance by the Syrian government with its obligations under the Annan Plan. In particular, there must be an end to all shelling and full withdrawal of troops and heavy weapons from population centres, a release of political detainees and an end to ongoing human rights violations. All sides must desist from violence of any kind and commit to full support for the Plan. The fullest and earliest deployment of UNSMIS is essential to international efforts to bring the violence to an end and to promote full implementation of the Plan. Ireland is proud to be contributing personnel to this Mission, the Government having decided on 24 April to contribute up to six military observers to serve with it. The Irish contingent of six was deployed to Syria on 11 May.
Currently, approximately one hundred of the Mission's total strength of 300 military observers, as authorised in UN Security Council Resolution 2043, have been deployed in Syria along with a civilian component of 49 civilian staff. Observer teams have been established in cities such as Homs, Deraa, and Hama which have been the scenes of major conflict and shelling. The principal obstacles confronting UNSMIS in its deployment to date relate to the provision of air assets, ensuring full safety of the observers in light of the highly volatile security situation as well as the unacceptable attempts by the Syrian government to influence the composition of the Mission by a selective approach to the granting of entry visas. I am particularly concerned at incidents such as the attack which took place on a Syrian Army convoy accompanying a UNSMIS observer team (including the Norwegian Force Commander) which was visiting Deraa on 9 May; this attack resulted in serious injuries to a number of Syrian soldiers. Incidents of this kind which involve the targeting of UN peace-keepers are completely unacceptable.
The UN is working towards full deployment of UNSMIS by the end of May. The recent increase in the level of violence underlines the severity of the challenges faced by the Mission. However, we are resolved, with our EU partners, to continue to offer the fullest support to UNSMIS and to Special Envoy Annan in their efforts to promote a peaceful settlement.
Northern Ireland Issues
Patrick Nulty
Question:73 Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the situation regarding a person (details supplied) and the report published by the Pat Finucane Centre for Human Rights; if his attention has been drawn to the call that they be moved from Hydebank Women’s Prison, Belfast, to an outside facility to receive medical treatment; if he has raised this matter with the British Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24489/12]
My Department has received a copy of the report by the Pat Finucane Centre which raised concerns about the health of the person in question. For my part I have discussed the status of this individual with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, and I have directed officials from my Department to continue to monitor this case very closely.
Question No. 74 answered with Question No. 70.
Fuel Prices
Simon Harris
Question:75 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Finance if he will introduce measures to off-set the impact of rising costs of petrol and diesel in view of the adverse effect that it is having on small and medium enterprises here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24347/12]
Simon Harris
Question:76 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Finance the steps he will take to address the pressures being felt by persons and small businesses in view of rising petrol and diesel prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24348/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 75 and 76 together.
The excise rates (including the carbon charge) in Ireland on motor fuels are 58.8 cent per litre of petrol and 47.9 cent per litre of auto-diesel. However, our rates remain lower than many of our main trading partners and significantly lower than our nearest neighbour the UK. The rates for petrol and auto-diesel were increased with effect from 7 December 2011, arising from an increase in the carbon charge for those fuels from €15 to €20 per tonne of CO2 emitted. This represented an increase of less than 1.5 cent per litre in the case of petrol and just over 1.5 cent per litre in the case of diesel, when VAT is included. The rate of VAT that applies to those fuels increased from 21% to 23% with effect from 1 January 2012.
The Exchequer yield from excise, as excise is set at a nominal amount, does not increase as the price of fuels increase. On the other hand, the yield from VAT per litre of fuel, as VAT is set as a percentage of the price, increases as the price of fuels increase. However, in this regard it should be borne in mind that to the extent that spending in the economy is re-allocated to petrol and other oil products, and away from other VAT liable spending, and to the extent that the overall level of economic activity is reduced by higher oil prices, there may be little or no net gain to the Exchequer. It should also be noted that businesses are of course entitled to reclaim VAT incurred on their business inputs, including VAT incurred on fuel. For example, VAT incurred on auto-diesel and marked gas oil (MGO or green diesel) used in the course of business is a deductible credit for business in the Irish VAT system. VAT on petrol cannot be deducted/reclaimed.
There are no plans for temporary taxation adjustments, as to do so, could lead to significant costs to the Exchequer. The issue of rising fuel prices was discussed by EU Finance Ministers at an ECOFIN meeting last year where they reconfirmed the approach taken in 2005 and again in 2008, when oil prices were very high, which endorsed a coordinated approach towards not making distortionary fiscal adjustments.
Mortgage Arrears
Joanna Tuffy
Question:77 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance if he has been given details of proposals by banks to introduce split mortgages for families experiencing difficulties making repayments on their mortgage; if he is satisfied that the proposals will be in keeping with his overall strategy to address the issue of mortgage arrears; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24378/12]
The Central Bank is engaging with all regulated mortgage lenders on the mortgage arrears resolution strategies project. This is a key element of the overall approach to address the mortgage arrears problem. The objective of this engagement is to ensure that each lender has an effective strategy and plan for dealing with its mortgage customers who are, or who are likely to be, in difficulty. I am informed by the Central Bank that, in line with its on-going engagement and work, lenders are currently submitting to it the options they propose to make available to tackle this long term problem. Those options may include the products referred to in the report from the Interdepartmental Mortgages Arrears Group, such as split mortgages. The Central Bank has indicated to me that lenders are expected to start piloting these options over the summer with full roll out commencing towards the end of the year.
Departmental Functions
Gerry Adams
Question:78 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Finance if his recently announced intention to carry out a review of internal reorganisation, including the creation of an economics division to focus on economic planning and performance monitoring will entail the employment of new staff; if the intention is to fill these positions from outside of the Civil Service; if they will be subject to open competition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24421/12]
The revised Statement of Strategy for the Department sets out its mission: "to manage Government Finances and play a central role in the achievement of the Government's economic and social goals having regard to the Programme for Government. In this way we will play a leadership role in the improvement of the standards of living of our citizens". This Department is redirecting our own primary focus more towards the identification and implementation of measures which will contribute to enhanced confidence, delivering sustainable growth in our economy and thereby repair the damage caused to the lives of citizens, the economy and the banking sector.
As also explained in the Statement of Strategy "As a result, during 2012 and 2013, we will actively engage in a threefold action plan.
This will firstly involve training our existing teams so that they can develop greater technical, management and leadership skills necessary to the challenge. Using the performance management evaluation system, we will review our staff and identify any skills which need enhancing so as to use the training resources most effectively.
We will challenge and acknowledge the efforts of our key performing staff by further developing their skills and add to the value they contribute to the Department.
In parallel, we will be adding to our teams to supplement our skills base where gaps are identified. This will also be necessary for succession planning for the work of future generations of our department.”
The addition of any new staff will occur through a combination of employment via open competition and the secondment of staff from other areas of the Civil/Public Service and private sector.
VAT Rates
Simon Harris
Question:79 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to an anomaly whereby hard copy textbooks are VAT free, however the same publications in ebook form are subject to VAT at a rate of 23%; if he will address this matter in view of the growing number of schools that are favouring electronic textbooks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24425/12]
The VAT rating of goods and services is subject to the requirements of EU VAT law with which Irish VAT law must comply. In Ireland the zero rate applies to printed books, including atlases, children's picture, drawing and colouring books and books of music. Under the EU VAT Directive, all digitised publications, regardless of their rate when printed (for example, a book liable at zero rate), are treated as the supply of a service liable at the standard 23% rate of VAT. E-books, online newspaper subscriptions and online information services purchased via download over the Internet are also considered the supply of services liable for VAT at the standard rate. There is no option under EU VAT law to apply the zero rate of VAT to e-books.
Credit Availability
Terence Flanagan
Question:80 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance the discussions that he has had with the National Asset Management Agency regarding plans to launch their pilot scheme for negative equity protection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24448/12]
NAMA launched its 80:20 Deferred Payment Initiative on 8 May 2012. This initiative is being made available initially on a pilot basis in respect of 115 houses located in residential developments in counties Dublin, Meath and Cork. Further details on the Initiative including eligible properties are available on NAMA's website, www.nama.ie. NAMA brought forward this scheme in response to my request that it examine measures open to it to help improve liquidity in the housing market in late 2011. Discussions with NAMA on their proposed scheme resulted in agreement that this initiative would go ahead subject to the following conditions:
It is limited to 750 houses in total;
Properties will be released in three tranches with an evaluation process after the release of the first tranche to determine the results of the scheme and the impact on the housing market;
Properties in the pilot phase will be remaining vacant units in partly occupied housing estates;
There would be limited numbers of houses released in each geographical area so as not to unduly impact on the local housing market; and
NAMA would adopt other measures in combination with the sales process such as appropriate leasing initiatives and targeted sales (in rural areas) as well as the development of social housing solutions.
I am advised by NAMA that any extension of the pilot initiative to additional residential units would include units located across the range of regions in which NAMA's debtors control suitable units.
Tax Reliefs
Brendan Griffin
Question:81 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Finance if an educational body (details supplied) in County Kerry qualifies for charitable donations under the Tax Consolidation Act 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24464/12]
Section 848A of the Taxes Consolidation Act (TCA) 1997 provides for tax relief on donations to eligible charities and other approved bodies. The administration of the donations scheme is the responsibility of the Revenue Commissioners. I am advised by Revenue that all primary schools providing education, based on a programme prescribed or approved by the Minister for Education and Skills, are approved bodies for the purposes of the donations scheme. This includes the educational body in respect of which the Deputy supplied details. The full details and conditions of the donations scheme are set out in leaflet CHY2 which can be accessed on the Revenue website at www.revenue.ie.
Fiscal Policy
Éamon Ó Cuív
Question:82 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Finance the total national debt as of 1 January 2012 defined as debt that will be assessable for debt/GDP if the fiscal compact is agreed and the amount of this that derives from investments in and other supports for banking institutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24494/12]
Ireland's National Debt stood at €119.1 billion at end-December 2011. National Debt is the net debt incurred by the Exchequer after taking account of cash balances and other related assets. The debt correction requirement in the Inter-Governmental Treaty on Stability, Coordination and Governance in the Economic and Monetary Union relates to General Government Debt, not National Debt.
General Government Debt is the measure of the total debt of the State and is used for comparative purposes across the European Union. National Debt is the principal component of General Government Debt. General Government Debt also includes the debt of central and local government bodies as well as Promissory Notes issued to a number of financial institutions as a means of providing State support to these institutions. Unlike the National Debt, General Government Debt is reported on a gross basis and does not net off outstanding cash balances and other related assets.
General Government Debt stood an estimated €169.3 billion at end-2011. Of this, some €42 billion arises as a result of the impact of State support for the banking sector.
|
State Support for Banking Sector(Exchequer + Promissory Note) |
2009€bn |
2010€bn |
2011€bn |
|
Total |
4.0 |
31.55 |
6.5 |
|
— Recapitalisation of Anglo |
4.0 |
||
|
— INBS/EBS Special Investment Shares |
0.7 |
||
|
— Promissory Notes |
30.85 |
||
|
— July 2011 Banking Recapitalisation |
6.5* |
*Net of Exchequer receipts from the sale of the part of the National Pensions Reserve Fund (NPRF) shareholding in Bank of Ireland and of transaction fees from the ILP recapitalisation.
In addition, a further €20.7 billion has been provided to the banking system from the NPRF. Funding provided from the NPRF does not directly affect the General Government Debt.
Disabled Drivers
Sean Fleming
Question:83 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Finance when a disabled passenger scheme will be approved and finalised in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24503/12]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that an application for relief under the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme was received in the Central Repayments Office, Monaghan on 4th January 2012 from the person (details supplied). A Letter of Authorisation, which permitted the claimant to purchase a vehicle under the terms of the scheme, issued on the same date. A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) was received in the Central Repayments Office on 1st May 2012. An Exemption Notification issued to the person (details supplied) on 14th May 2012. This Exemption Notification authorises registration of the vehicle exempt from Vehicle Registration Tax.
Banks Recapitalisation
Éamon Ó Cuív
Question:84 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Finance the total net investment by the State in banks and financial institutions since 2008 and the amount this has added to the national debt; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24515/12]
The table below shows the net investment after accounting for all fees paid in respect of the recaps, the Cash dividend income on Preference shares, and Cash received from sale of warrants:
|
€bn |
AIB/EBS |
BoI* |
IL&P |
IBRC (Anglo/INBS) |
Total |
|
Government preference Shares (2009) — NPRF |
3.47 |
3.47 |
— |
— |
6.94 |
|
Government preference Shares Return (Coupon/Warrants) |
— |
-0.95 |
— |
— |
-0.95 |
|
Capital contributions (with Promissory Notes as consideration) /Special Investment Shares (2010) — Exchequer ** |
0.88 |
— |
— |
30.70 |
31.58 |
|
Ordinary Share Capital (2009) — Exchequer |
— |
— |
— |
4.00 |
4.00 |
|
Ordinary Share Capital (2010) — NPRF |
3.70 |
— |
— |
— |
3.70 |
|
Total pre-PCAR 2011 (A) |
8.04 |
2.52 |
0.00 |
34.70 |
45.27 |
|
PCAR 2011: |
|||||
|
Capital from Exchequer*** |
3.88 |
— |
2.65 |
— |
6.54 |
|
NPRF Capital |
8.77 |
1.20 |
— |
— |
9.97 |
|
Total PCAR (B) |
12.65 |
1.20 |
2.65 |
0.00 |
16.51 |
|
Total Cost of Recap for State (A) + (B) |
20.70 |
3.72 |
2.65 |
34.70 |
61.77 |
*€1.7bn of BoI’s government preference shares were converted to equity in May/June 2010 (€1.8bn still left in existence). The government also received €479m from the warrants, €403m in dividend income and €64m in fees relating to BoI’s preference shares.
**The IBRC amount is made up of a total capital contribution for Anglo / INBS of €30.6bn and a special investment share of €0.1bn (INBS). The Anglo / INBS capital contribution impacted in full on the GGB in 2010. The consideration for the Anglo / INBS capital contribution was €30.6bn of promissory notes. These Promissory Notes are an amount due from the State to IBRC. Each year, on 31 March, €3.06bn is paid by the Exchequer to Anglo / INBS as part of the scheduled repayments of the promissory notes. The first such repayment was made on 31 March 2010.
***All costs are shown net of fees, the Exchequer cost of the 2011 BoI recap is shown net of share sale to private investors (Completed in October, 2011).
Not factored into the table above are fees received by the State to end March 2012, since the introduction of the Credit Institutions Financial Support Scheme (CIFS) in September 2008 and the Eligible Liabilities Guarantee Scheme (ELG) which supersedes CIFS, which amount in total to €3.11bn.
National Debt is the net debt incurred by the Exchequer. Ireland's National Debt stood at €129.6 billion at end-April 2012. Of that amount, some €17.8 billion is the result of State support for the banking sector – see table below:
|
State Support for Banking Sector |
2009€bn |
2010€bn |
2011€bn |
2012 (end-April)€bn |
|
Total |
4.0 |
0.7 |
9.6 |
3.5 |
|
—Recapitalisation of Anglo |
4.0 |
|||
|
—INBS/EBS Special Investment Shares |
0.7 |
|||
|
—Promissory Notes |
3.1 |
3.5† |
||
|
—July 2011 Banking Recapitalisation |
6.5* |
†On 30th March 2012, the NTMA sold €3.461 billion nominal of the 5.4% Treasury Bond 2025 to IBRC. The bonds settled on 2nd April 2012. The total consideration for this transaction was €3.06 billion and was used to settle the Promissory Note liability due to IBRC on 31st March 2012.
*Net of Exchequer receipts from the sale of the part of the National Pensions Reserve Fund (NPRF) shareholding in Bank of Ireland and of transaction fees from the ILP recapitalisation.
While the €30.85 billion in Promissory Notes issued in 2010 were added in full to the stock of General Government Debt in 2010, they only add incrementally to the National Debt as the annual payments are made, as shown in the table.
In addition, a further €20.7 billion has been provided to the banking system from the NPRF. Funding provided from the NPRF does not directly affect the National Debt.
Financial Services Regulation
Kevin Humphreys
Question:85 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Permanent TSB continue to charge very high standard variable rates of more than 6% on investment retail mortgages, their reduction of 0.5% on the SVR applicable to home loans was not passed onto these borrowers and that this policy of retaining higher interest rates to off-set the losses on tracker mortgages is causing financial difficulties for these borrowers; if he will ask PTSB, which has received significant support from public funds and has access to low rate European Central Bank lending, to address this issue and ensure those borrowers who are paying their debts are not unduly burdened as their SVR has increased from 3.84% in April 2009 to 6.34% in January 2012, whilst the ECB rate declined from 1.5% to 1% in the same period meaning the margin for PTSB has increased from 2.34% to 5.34%; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24520/12]
Notwithstanding the State's significant shareholding in the bank, Permanent TSB ("PTSB") operates at arm's length from the State in relation to commercial issues. Ultimately the pricing of financial products, including standard variable mortgage interest rates, is a commercial decision for the management team and board of the bank, having due regard to their customers and the impact on profitability, particularly where the cost of funding to the bank, including deposit pricing, is under pressure. Credit institutions are not primarily or always funded from the ECB, but rather from a wide variety of sources. Neither the Central Bank nor the Department of Finance has a statutory function in relation to interest rate decisions made by individual lending institutions at any particular time. However, the Central Bank have informed me that, using their existing powers, they will engage with lenders which appear to have standard variable mortgage rates set disproportionate to their cost of funds.
Tax Code
John Deasy
Question:86 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Finance his plans to lower the rate of windfall gain tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24586/12]
The windfall tax rate of 80% applies to the portion of the profit or gain on a disposal of land which is attributable to a "relevant planning decision": that is, a rezoning, where both the rezoning and the disposal of land giving rise to the windfall happen after 30 October 2009; or a "material contravention" decision by a local authority, where both the decision and the disposal happen after 4 February 2010. The purpose of the windfall tax was to apply a higher rate of tax to the profits or gains from land disposals where those profits or gains are attributable to a decision by a planning authority rather than to any value attributable to the work of the landowner.
There is no record of profits of gains subject to the windfall tax having been declared on tax returns to date. This reflects the small number of "relevant planning decisions" since the windfall tax was introduced, as well as the fact that landowners may not make a gain on a disposal of development land in the current market. As with all areas of taxation, the windfall rate is constantly kept under review and any changes will be determined in the context of Budget and Finance Bill.
Financial Services Regulation
Martin Ferris
Question:87 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Finance if he will undertake to legislate in the area of debt collection in line with the Fine Gael Private Members ’ motion of 30 March 2009, which inter alia pointed out that unlike many other EU countries, Ireland has no system of regulation of debt collectors and called on the then Government to introduce legislation to regulate debt collection and to ensure that debt collectors are registered and vetted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24590/12]
I, as Minister for Finance, have no statutory function in relation to the issue raised by the Deputy. Debt collection services apply across a significantly wider range of activities than the recovery of money for financial products, for example for utilities, other consumer debts and also debts between businesses.
The Minister for Justice and Equality is responsible for legislation — the Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act 1997 — which applies to all debt collectors that operate across any or all sectors of the economy, including private individuals and debt collection agencies.
Under Section 11 of this Act, it is an offence to demand payment of a debt in a way designed to alarm, distress or humiliate. If someone is charged with this offence and it is tried as a summary offence the maximum penalty is €1,270 and/or 12 months imprisonment. If someone is charged with this offence and it is tried as an indictable offence, the maximum penalty is a fine and/or 14 years imprisonment.
The Deputy might wish to note that in the case of financial institutions which use debt collection firms, the Central Bank has imposed requirements that offer protection to consumers under its revised Consumer Protection Code (CPC). The Code obliges the regulated entities that it covers to ensure that any outsourced activity complies with the requirements of the Code. This means that outsourced activity should uphold principles in the Code such as the requirement for institutions:
not to exert undue pressure or undue influence on a customer;
to act honestly, fairly and professionally in the best interests of customers and to act with due skill, care and diligence in the best interest of its customers; and
to prohibit personal visits or oral communications except in specified circumstances.
Similarly, there are provisions in the Central Bank's Consumer Protection Code for Licensed Moneylenders which provide protections to consumers in relation to the debt collection activities of licensed moneylenders, including where they outsource this function to a third party.
Tax Code
Finian McGrath
Question:88 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding taxation in respect of an American citizen (details supplied). [24601/12]
The taxation of citizens of the United States of America is a matter for the Government of that country. I understand that the USA taxes its citizens regardless of where they live in the world and that this has been the case since 1913. Ireland imposes income tax on individuals resident in the State and on individuals who are not resident in the State but who have an Irish source of income. One of the principal purposes of the Double Taxation Convention between Ireland and the United States is to avoid income being doubly taxed. Consistent with US tax treaties generally, the Convention has limited application in relation to the taxation of US citizens — for example, a US citizen, treated as Irish resident for the purposes of the Convention, who is in receipt of Irish-sourced interest income can be subject to US tax. However, the Convention requires the United States to give credit for Irish tax — such as DIRT on interest income — against any US tax payable on that income and does not limit the application of this requirement in the case of US citizens. The Convention requires that the relief is to be given in accordance with the provisions and subject to the limitations of the law of the United States.
Vocational Education Committees
Charlie McConalogue
Question:89 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of crèches run by vocational education colleges that will close this year; the full list of VECs which are affected by these closures; the areas within each VEC that are affected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24587/12]
14 Vocational Education Committees (VECs) own crèches. In 2011, County Limerick VEC closed its créche. County Carlow VEC plans to close its créche in May and City of Dublin VEC will close its 3 créches in Ballyfermot, Cabra and Whitehall in July. County Clare VEC will close its créche in Ennis later this year but plans to keep its Kilrush créche open.
My Department continues to engage with the Irish Vocational Education Association (IVEA, on behalf of VECs), individual VECs and relevant employee representative organisations in relation to these issues.
Charlie McConalogue
Question:90 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of child care places that will be lost as a result of the closure of a number of crèches in vocational education colleges around the country this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24588/12]
Childcare provision in creches owned by Vocational Education Committees (VECs) is mainly funded under the Childcare Education and Training Support (CETS) scheme The CETS is operated by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) alongside a range of childcare schemes, such as ECCE and the Community Childcare Subvention (CCS) which are open on an equitable and nationally consistent basis to community crèches, including VEC crèches and in many cases to private providers.
Where VECs take the decision to close a creche, the places that were provided in that creche under the CETS can be made available to other local childcare services so there will be no reduction in the number of places available as a result of the closure of these créches.
Charlie McConalogue
Question:91 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Education and Skills the steps he is taking to ensure that crèches in vocational education committees are not closed down; his views on the impact this will have on lone parents in disadvantaged areas returning to education. [24589/12]
Childcare provision in creches owned by Vocational Education Committees (VECs) is mainly funded under the Childcare Education and Training Support (CETS) scheme, which is operated by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, under the Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCSS) framework. The CETS is targeted at participants in a range of further education and training programmes delivered by FÁS and VECs.
14 VECs own crèches and some of those VECs had been indicating that under CETS their crèches may not be financially viable in the long term, mainly because their operating costs were higher than those of commercial or community crèches (the levels of subvention under the CETS are in line with best practice as established by DCYA). My Department provided transitional core funding to support these creches in 2010 and in 2011 but I am not in a position to sustain this additional support in the long term.
Where VECs take the decision to close a creche, the places that were provided in that creche under the CETS can be made available to other local childcare services so there will be no loss in places as a result of the closure of these créches and no impact on lone parents in disadvantaged areas returning to education.
School Staffing
Robert Troy
Question:92 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will reconsider the impending cuts to the staffing at a college (details supplied) which will lose 5.5 teachers this year and will have lost more than nine over two years if the 1.41 PLC increase is discounted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24380/12]
Teacher allocations are approved annually in accordance with established rules based on recognised pupil enrolment. My Department has published the staffing arrangements at post primary level for the coming school year, 2012/13. The relevant Post Primary circular is 0009/2012 which is available on my Department's website. At post primary level schools will have autonomy on how best to prioritise its available resources to meet its requirements in relation to guidance and the provision of an appropriate range of subjects to its students. Decisions on how this is done will be taken at school level and I am confident that schools will act in the best interest of students when determining precisely how to use the teaching resources available to them.
A key priority for me is to continue to prioritise and target available funding at schools with the most concentrated levels of educational disadvantage. All 195 second-level school in DEIS, including the school referred to by the Deputy, have been given targeted support by a more favourable staffing schedule of 18.25:1. This is a 0.75 point reduction compared to the existing PTR of 19:1 that applies in non fee-paying second-level schools.
In accordance with existing arrangements, where a post primary school management authority is unable to meet its curricular commitments within its approved allocation, my Department considers applications for additional short term support, i.e., curricular concessions.
The allocation process also includes an appeals mechanism under which schools can appeal against the allocation due to them under the staffing schedule. The school referred to by the Deputy has appealed the curricular concessions and EAL (English as an additional Language) allocation. The school will be notified of the outcome of the appeal when the appeal process is completed.
The Appeal Board operate independently of the Department and its decision is final.
The final staffing position for all schools at post primary level will ultimately not be known until the Autumn. At that stage the allocation process will be fully completed and all appeals to the Staffing Appeal Board will have been considered.
Dara Calleary
Question:93 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will ensure that guidance counselling hours are maintained at the 2011/12 level in a secondary school (details supplied) in County Mayo; if he has plans to make allowances for secondary schools based in designated RAPID status towns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24389/12]
All schools must continue to provide guidance to their pupils. However, from September 2012 guidance provision will be managed by schools from within their standard staffing allocation. As things currently stand 42% of second level schools do not presently have a full-time guidance counsellor. My Department has published Circular 0009/2012 to inform all post primary school management and staff of the staffing arrangements for post-primary schools for the 2012/13 school year, including in particular, the requirements to manage guidance from within the standard allocation. The circular is available on the Department website. Schools will have autonomy on how best to prioritise its available resources to meet its requirements in relation to guidance and the provision of an appropriate range of subjects to its students. Decisions on how this is done will be taken at school level and I am confident that schools will act in the best interest of students when determining precisely how to use the teaching resources available to them.
School Accommodation
Éamon Ó Cuív
Question:94 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a school (details supplied) will be included in the programme to replace prefabricated buildings in schools in view of the very poor buildings at this school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24392/12]
As the Deputy is aware I recently allocated €35 million to allow almost 200 schools with rented prefab accommodation an opportunity to replace their rented prefabs with permanent accommodation. The school referred to by the Deputy has no rented prefabs and therefore does not qualify for prefab replacement under this scheme.
School Staffing
Peter Mathews
Question:95 Deputy Peter Mathews asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to increase the number of teaching positions in the primary school sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24420/12]
This Government has protected education as much as it can. Far greater reductions in expenditure and in the number of public servants are being made in other sectors relative to those in schools. But there are limits to the level of expenditure on education and the number of teaching posts we can afford. The Budget 2012 measures in relation to the primary sector are set out in the documentation that was published by my Department last December. This envisages a net overall increase of about 250 posts at primary level between the current school year and the 2012/13 school year. This net increase in posts takes account of the impact of the budget measures and the additional posts allocated to individual schools that have increased enrolments.
The final overall staffing position for all schools at primary level will ultimately not be known until the Autumn. At that stage the allocation process will be fully completed and any appeals to the Staffing Appeal Board will have been considered.
Redundancy Payments
Tom Hayes
Question:96 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Skills when a redundancy payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24426/12]
A redundancy application from the person referred to by the Deputy was received by my Department on the 30th December 2011. Applications are processed in date order of receipt and every effort is being made to process these applications as quickly as possible. Applications received in October 2011 are currently being processed. It is expected that the application from the person referred to will be reached for processing in approximately eight weeks.
School Accommodation
Willie O'Dea
Question:97 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has reached a decision in regard to the request for additional secondary school accommodation from a school (details supplied) in County Limerick for September 2012; if the school has been notified of the decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24429/12]
My Department has no record of having received an application from the school referred to by the Deputy for the additional accommodation in question. It is open to the school authority to submit an application for this accommodation and the relevant application form can be downloaded from my Department's website www.education.ie.
Scoileanna Gaeltachta
Maureen O'Sullivan
Question:98 D’fhiafraigh Maureen O’Sullivan den Aire Oideachais agus Scileanna an bhfuil sé i gceist aige agus ag a Roinn plean struchtúrach a chur i bhfeidhm maidir le todhchaí scoileanna na Gaeltachta, mar chuid den Straitéis 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge, 2010-2030, ag féachaint d’Airteagail 8 agus 42 de Bhunreacht na hÉireann agus d’ailt 6, 9 agus 31 den Acht Oideachais 1998; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [24430/12]
Tuigim cion tábhachtach na scoil-eanna Gaeltachta chun an Ghaeilge a chothú mar theanga an phobail. Áiríonn pleananna na Roinne seo agamsa soláthar chun tacú leis na scoileanna seo a ndualgais a chomhlíonadh faoi Ailt 6 agus 9 den Acht Oideachais i gcomhthéacs na Straitéise 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge agus bearta eile.
Tá oifigigh ó mo Roinnse ag comhoibriú go dlúth le hoifigigh sa Roinn Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta ar chur i bhfeidhm na Straitéise 20 Bliain. Tá bearta áirithe sa Straitéis ar bun cheana féin a thacóidh le scoileanna Gaeltachta, ina measc:
athmhachnamh ar na riachtanais i leith na Gaeilge d'iontráil ar chúrsaí oiliúna múinteoirí,
a chinntiú go n-ullmhaíonn ábhar na gcúrsaí oiliúna múinteoirí na múinteoirí mar is cuí chun an Ghaeilge a mhúineadh i suíomhanna trí mheán an Bhéarla agus trí mheán na Gaeilge,
leasú ar ábhar churaclam na bunscoile agus an timthrialla shóisearaigh don Ghaeilge,
athbhreithniú ar an siollabas don Ardteistiméireacht i bhfianaise thaithí na scoláirí i scrúdú na bliana 2012.
Tá mo Roinnse tiomanta freisin do thacú le scoileanna Gaeltachta trí oibriú Ailt 31 den Acht Oideachais. Ina leith seo, imríonn An Chomhairle Um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta mór-ról i dtacú le forbairt acmhainní do theagasc na Gaeilge agus do theagasc trí Ghaeilge. Tá thart ar €1.75m á thabhairt ag mo Roinne don Chomhairle Um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta sa bhliain 2012 chun acmhainní dá leithéid a sholáthar. I measc na mbeart eile chun tacú le scoileanna Gaeltachta, cuirtear suas le deich faoin gcéad de na háiteanna oiliúna múinteoirí sna Coláistí Oiliúna ar leataobh d'iarrthóirí Gaeltachta d'fhonn a chinntiú go bhfuil soláthar ann de chainteoirí líofa Gaeilge chun teagasc i mbunscoileanna Gaeltachta. Leanfaidh mo Roinn den mhonatóireacht ar an dul chun cinn a dhéanfar i gcur i bhfeidhm na Straitéise 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge agus ar éifeachtúlacht na mbeart atá ar bun chun tacú le scoileanna Gaeltachta.
Maureen O'Sullivan
Question:99 D’fhiafraigh Maureen O’Sullivan den Aire Oideachais agus Scileanna an bhfuil sé i gceist aige cinneadh na Roinne Oideachais agus Scileanna deireadh a chur le deontais d’ábhair oidí le freastal ar chúrsaí tumoideachais Ghaeilge sa Ghaeltacht mar chuid riachtanach dá gcúrsa a aisghairm, ós rud é go dtagann an cinneadh go hiomlán salach ar na moltaí atá déanta ag an Rialtas féin sa Straitéis 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge, 2010-2030, agus ag an gComhairle Mhúinteoireachta, an comhlacht reachtúil gairmiúil don mhúinteoireacht in Éirinn; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [24431/12]
Mar chuid de bhreithniúcháin bhuiséadacha an Rialtais agus den Athbhreithniú Cuimsitheach ar Chaiteachas, cinneadh ar na deontais a d'íocadh an Roinn seo leis na Coláistí Gaeltachta, i leith an chostais ar ábhar múinteora as freastal ar chúrsaí Gaeltachta, a chur ar ceal. Ní ghlanfaidh an Roinn an costas a bheidh ar ábhar múinteora a bheidh ag tosú ar an gclár túsoideachas bunmhúinteoireachta sa bhliain acadúil 2012/13 as freastal ar na cúrsaí seo, de bharr go bhfuil tosaíocht tugtha d'acmhainní a chosaint i gcomhair seirbhísí túslíne, sa mhéid gur féidir é, sna blianta amach anseo. Níl sé ar intinn agam an cinneadh seo a aisghairm. Fágann an beart seo go bhfuil na cláir thúsoideachas bunmhúinteoireachta ar aon dul le cláir chéime eile níos mó ná mar a bhídís, le cláir ar nós clár céimeanna teanga, ina n-éilítear ar mhic léinn costais riachtanas speisialta breise a ghlanadh iad féin.
Maureen O'Sullivan
Question:100 D’fhiafraigh Maureen O’Sullivan den Aire Oideachais agus Scileanna an aontaíonn sé gur chóir cloí leis na teisteanna a rinne an Chomhairle Mhúinteoireachta ag moladh go leanfadh ábhair mhúinteoirí sainchlár do theagasc teanga sa Ghaeltacht, agus go gcuirfí leis an am teagaisc agus freastail d’ábhair oidí ar chúrsaí tumoideachais Ghaeilge sa Ghaeltacht, mar chuid éigeantach dá gcéim oideachais chun a gcuid scileanna Gaeilge a fheabhsú; an dtacaíonn sé leis an moladh gur chóir d’ábhair oidí an tréimhse Ghaeltachta a dhéanamh ag tús na céime chun gur féidir leo rogha a dhéanamh leanúint leis an gcúrsa trí mheán na Gaeilge más mian leo; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [24432/12]
De réir Ailt 38 d'Acht na Comhairle Múinteoireachta, 2001, is í an Chomhairle Mhúinteoireachta an comhlacht a bhfuil údarás reachtúil aici chun cláir oideachais agus oiliúint múinteoirí, a sholáthraíonn forais ardoideachais sa Stát, a athbhreithniú agus a chreidiúnú; chun na caighdeáin eolais, scileanna agus inniúlachta, a theastaíonn chun an mhúinteoireacht a chleachtadh, a athbhreithniú, agus chun comhairle a chur ormsa maidir leis na nithe seo. Tá an Chomhairle neamhspleách i gcomhlíonadh a cuid feidhmeanna. Ag forbairt polasaithe di, téann an Chomhairle i gcomhairle le raon forleathan páirtithe eile, mo Roinnse ina measc. Tá na paraiméadair d'fhorbairt chlár thúsoideachas múinteoireachta, an socrúchán Gaeltachta san áireamh, leagtha amach in "Polasaí faoi Chontanam Oideachais Mhúinteoirí" agus "Oideachas Tosaigh Múinteoirí: Critéir agus Treoirlínte do Sholáthraithe Cláir", doiciméid de chuid na Comhairle. Tá meitheal oibre faoi choimirce na Comhairle ag breithniú dearadh agus forbairt shocrúchán fadaithe Gaeltachta faoi láthair. Níéilítear faomhadh ó mo Roinnse i gcomhair clár thúsoideachas múinteoireachta.
Institutes of Technology
Gerry Adams
Question:101 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide an update on proposals to create a technological university in the State. [24438/12]
Gerry Adams
Question:102 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide an update on future plans for the Dublin Institute of Technology. [24439/12]
Gerry Adams
Question:103 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the proposals for closer alliances between Dublin City University and Dundalk Institute of Technology; his views on these proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24440/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 101 to 103, inclusive, together.
On Monday 13th February, the HEA published a number of documents intended to provide a broad framework for future system development in Irish higher education, including a clear four stage process and criteria for designation as Technological University. All higher education institutions, including Dundalk IT and DCU, have now been invited to identify their key strengths and their future strategic fit within the system and submit a realistic plan to HEA on that basis.
Consortiums of institutes of technology proposing to merge and apply for designation as technological universities will need to submit a formal expression of interest within six months and will be advised within a further six months whether they can proceed to the second stage for designation. Decisions on designation as Technological Universities will be taken by an independent international expert panel at the final stages of application as set out clearly in the Process and criteria document available on www.hea.ie.
The landscape documentation also includes guidelines for the building of regional collaborative clusters of all our higher education institutions. These different aspects of the reform process will be key to the delivery of many of the most important objectives of the National Strategy including achieving a coherent, diverse higher quality education system that is more responsive to the needs of students, enterprise and the wider community.
Bullying in Schools
Terence Flanagan
Question:104 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the steps he is taking to address the issue of cyber bullying; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24455/12]
I recently announced details of a forum to explore ways to tackle the problem of bullying in schools. This Anti-Bullying Forum is due to take place on 17 May 2012 and will bring together a range of experts, support groups and representatives of the schools sector including parents and students.
There will be a range of speakers on the day of the Forum which will include contributions from my Department, the National Anti-Bullying Coalition (NABC), an acknowledged academic or other expert in the field of anti-bullying and contributors from the school sector from the various perspectives of school principal, parent and pupils. The Forum will also give other stakeholders an opportunity to give their views.
The objective of the Forum will be to explore with all the relevant stakeholders how best to tackle bullying in schools and to consider what changes or updating of existing practices and procedures are required to achieve this having regard to what is feasible to implement in the current financial climate. The work of the Forum and any recommendations from it must be cognisant of the current very difficult and challenging budgetary environment that is resulting in all areas of the public sector, including schools, having to operate on a reduced level of resources for the foreseeable future.
Bullying is a problem I take very seriously and I hope that the Forum will provide an opportunity to set out a roadmap on how best to tackle all forms of bullying in our schools.
I have also established a working group on tackling bullying in schools, including homophobic bullying, cyber bullying and racist bullying. The outcomes and recommendations from the Forum will assist the working group in its deliberations. This working group includes representatives of the Department of Education and Skills and the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, and will draw upon the expertise of a range of organisations throughout their work.
Schools Building Projects
Dominic Hannigan
Question:105 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding applications to advance the building works in schools (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24465/12]
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the schools to which he refers are among those I announced in May to proceed to construction as part of my Department's five year capital investment programme.
The accommodation briefs for both schools have been completed. The appropriate method for delivery of this project is being considered and a final decision will be communicated to the school authorities in the near future.
Departmental Agencies
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:106 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of officials in agencies under his Department that are paid more than €125,000; more than €150,000 and more than €175,000 or more; the agencies in which they are employed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24471/12]
The following table provides the information requested by the Deputy.
|
Agency |
Number paid more than €125,000 |
Number paid more than €150,000 |
Number paid more than > €175,000 |
|
FÁS |
0 |
3 |
1 |
|
Higher Education Authority (HEA) |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
National Council for Special Education (NCSE) |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI) |
1* |
0 |
0 |
|
Skillnets Ltd |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
State Examinations Commission (SEC) |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
Totals |
5 |
3 |
1 |
*CEO designate of the soon to be established Qualifications and Quality Assurance Authority of Ireland (an amalgamation of FETAC, HETAC and NQAI. Also CEO of HETAC and FETAC.
School Patronage
Gerry Adams
Question:107 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Education and Skills further to Parliamentary Question No. 315 of 18 April 2012, if he has assessed the applications received; if a report has been prepared for consideration by the New Schools Establishment Group; when he expects to make a decision on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24482/12]
The assessment of the applications received for patronage of the new 2nd level schools concerned is ongoing. It is expected that a report will be ready shortly for consideration by the New Schools Establishment Group, who will in turn make recommendations to me for consideration and final decision.
Literacy Levels
Terence Flanagan
Question:108 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the steps being taken by him to improve literacy in primary schools and secondary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24507/12]
Terence Flanagan
Question:109 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the steps being taken by him to improve numeracy in primary schools and secondary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24508/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 108 and 109 together. I published the National Strategy to Improve Literacy and Numeracy among Children and Young People 2011 to 2020 in July 2011. The Strategy contains 41 actions and almost 180 sub-actions across 6 key areas. A high level implementation Advisory Group has been established to monitor the implementation of the Strategy. There has been significant progress in implementing the early actions of the Strategy and work is ongoing on medium and longer term actions. Some of the key developments to date are set out below:
A team of literacy and numeracy advisors have been appointed to support teachers and schools in implementing the Strategy and a national programme of professional development for primary and second level teachers is underway.
Programmes in literacy (including Irish) and mathematics accounted for almost half of all attendance at summer courses in 2011. There will be further summer courses for teachers in this area in 2012.
Proposals on revised entry standards for initial teacher education have been incorporated into the Teaching Council's Initial Teacher Education: Criteria and Guidelines for Programme Providers in relation to mathematics. The criteria also provide for an expansion of the primary Bachelor of Education from 3 to 4 years, and for an expansion of the Professional Diploma in Education to 2 years.
Units on literacy and numeracy are in place within the National Teacher Induction Programme for the 2011/12 school year.
Circular 56/2011 issued to all primary schools asking them to:
Increase the time spent on mathematics by 70 minutes per week,
Increase the time spent on literacy by one hour per week,
Introduce a third point of standardised testing in English reading and Mathematics, so that pupils are tested at the end of 2nd, 4th and 6th class. Irish medium schools are asked to also test students in Irish reading. Additional funding has been provided to schools to support this.
Report the results of the tests to parents as part of an overall standardised report on their children's learning,
Report the results, in terms of the numbers scoring at particular percentile bands, to the Department and the school board of management,
Provide data on 6th class pupils' progress to their second level school once enrolment has been accepted.
One of the aims of my Junior Cycle reform programme is to develop an integrated approach to promote the integrated development of literacy and numeracy skills across the curriculum.
Schools Building Projects
Colm Keaveney
Question:110 Deputy Colm Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Skills when a school (details supplied) in County Galway may expect to receive capital investment in view of the lack of facilities at the school. [24509/12]
The Major Building Project referred to by the Deputy is at an advanced stage of architectural planning. The Design Team is currently working on a Stage 2b submission (Detailed Design and Preparation of Tender documentation) and Planning Permission has been obtained. In view of the need to ensure 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 that was announced recently is focused on meeting those demographic needs. In that context, it was not possible to advance all applications for capital funding concurrently. School building projects currently in architectural planning, including this project, will continue to be advanced incrementally over time within the context of the funding available. In light of current competing demands on the Department's capital budget, however, it is not possible to progress this project to tender and construction at this time.
Teachers’ Remuneration
Brendan Griffin
Question:111 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the future pay position for primary teachers who have initiated their masters in primary education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24521/12]
As a result of Budget 2012, Circular 70/2011 provides that teachers who had been engaged in a public sector teaching post on or before 4 December 2011 are eligible to retain the qualification allowances they were entitled to be in receipt of on that date. Such teachers will not be paid any additional allowance where they acquire any further qualification on or after 5 December 2011. The position of teachers who, on 5 December 2011, were undertaking courses will be considered in the context of the public service-wide review of allowances being led by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. Teachers appointed to teaching for the first time on or after 5 December 2011 but before 1 February 2012 are eligible for allowances on the basis of their qualifications at entry to the profession up to a maximum of the allowance which had been applicable to an honours primary degree. Pending the outcome of the review of allowances, they are not payable to new beneficiaries from 1 February 2012. The only exceptions to this prohibition are principal and deputy principal allowances and, for a limited period of time, the assistant principal allowance. These decisions were taken due to the upward pressure on the cost of teacher allowances. These provisions are outlined in Circular 70/2011 and Circular 3/2012. These measures are concerned with the sustainability of the public service pay bill and in particular the need to find payroll savings in the education vote. Without immediate action, this upward pressure would have cancelled out the savings made elsewhere in the education system and would bring about even harsher adjustments to schools and services. I am not in a position to comment further until the outcome of the review is known.
School Accommodation
Robert Troy
Question:112 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application by a college (details supplied) in County Westmeath to access funding for a new woodwork room; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24534/12]
My Department has no record of having received an application from the school referred to by the Deputy for the works in question. It is open to the school authority to submit an application for these works and the relevant application form can be downloaded from my Department's website, www.education.ie.
Proposed Legislation
Dominic Hannigan
Question:113 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans to bring amendments to the Construction Contract Bill on Committee Stage to make arrangements for suppliers to be able to retrieve construction materials that are incorporated into the structure of the building from site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24376/12]
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to introduce new legislation to protect small building subcontractors that have been denied payments from bigger companies. In this regard, my colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes, is working with Senator Feargal Quinn to develop the Senator's Private Members Construction Contracts Bill into a robust piece of legislation. The Bill is now at Second Stage in the Dáil. During the Second Stage reading of the Bill, the Minister of State signalled to the House his intention to bring proposals to the Government on Committee Stage amendments to deal with certain issues. In order to ensure the legislation applies to majority of Construction Contracts, the scope of the legislation will be broadened by reducing or removing the current monetary thresholds contained in the Bill. The issue of making adjudication awards binding for both the public and private sectors is a complex one. It is important to strike the right balance between giving this legislation the necessary enforcement provisions and ensuring the application of the legislation is equitable and the taxpayer is safeguarded. Proposals are being developed to broaden the scope of the legislation to include bespoke construction supply contracts. However, I understand this is likely to be difficult to define in a manner that is easy to interpret. When these and a number of other technical issues have been examined, the Minister of State will bring proposals to the Government in advance of Committee Stage. This is an important piece of legislation aimed at creating a more level playing field between contractor and subcontractor in the construction sector. Therefore, is it essential that a number of complex issues are properly assessed to avoid imposing unnecessary regulatory or cost burdens on parties in dispute, the State or others.
Export Controls
Maureen O'Sullivan
Question:114 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if his attention has been drawn to the situation surrounding two companies based (details supplied) here accused of supplying blocking and filtering technology to Syriatel Mobile Telecom SA in Syria and to MTN Syria; if recent European Union trade restrictions on Syria prohibits the sale of technology that can be used for internal repression; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24428/12]
My Department is responsible for issuing licences, for exports outside the EU, of controlled goods and technology listed in the EU Dual Use Regulations. No licences have been issued in the past four years in respect of dual use controlled technology intended for export to Syria.
From contacts by my Department with the exporters concerned, I understand the exported software is designed to protect mobile users from spam, viruses, etc., and is not intended to prevent citizens exercising their fundamental democratic rights of free speech and assembly. My understanding is that the software was provided to telecom providers and not to any Government organisation or agency. I have received information from the companies concerned regarding the exports at issue, and an assessment of this information is taking place in my Department.
More generally, I would like to point out that prior to issuing any export licence for goods intended for a country where there is civil or military strife, I consult with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. This is an essential part of considering any application for an export licence and it involves a detailed consideration of any human rights implications connected with a possible export.
At EU level, in addition to measures agreed late last year and in early 2012, notably a ban on oil imports from Syria, the EU Foreign Affairs Council decided on the 27th February 2012 a further tightening of the sanctions regime against the Syrian authorities; these new measures included a partial freeze of the Syrian Central Bank assets in the EU, a ban on trade in gold, other precious metal and diamonds as well as further listing of individuals and entities supportive of the Assad regime. Restrictions on exports to Syria now cover the provision of equipment, technology or software which may be used for the monitoring or interception of internet or telephone communications. My Department works in close co-operation with the Revenue and Customs Service to ensure the effective application of the EU's sanctions regime and especially restrictions in place against Syria.
Measures were further extended at the March, April and May Foreign Affairs Council meetings with the most prominent decisions relating to a ban on the sale of luxury goods, a ban on dual-use technologies and goods as well as additional listings of individuals and entities connected with the Assad regime.
Work Permits
Paschal Donohoe
Question:115 Deputy Paschal Donohoe asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide an update on the status of a green card application submitted by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24533/12]
My Department processes applications in respect of the different types of employment permits and all applications are processed in line with the Employment Permits Act 2006. The Employment Permits Section informs me that it has no record of permits being applied for or issued in respect of the named individual.
Civil Registration
Olivia Mitchell
Question:116 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Social Protection his plans to make it compulsory that fathers should be named on their children’s birth certificates; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24377/12]
The Law Reform Commission, in its report Legal Aspects of Family Relationships, makes recommendations relating to the conduct of family relationships, including compulsory joint registration of the birth of a child where the parents are not married to each other.
It is my intention to seek the approval of the Government later this year for the drafting of heads of a bill to amend the Civil Registration Act 2004 to include the recommendations of the Law Reform Commission as they apply to civil registration matters.
Community Employment Schemes
Charlie McConalogue
Question:117 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Social Protection when funding will be announced for community employment schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24387/12]
A financial review of Community Employment (CE) Schemes is underway and is nearing completion. This review of CE Schemes has proved to be a valuable exercise for both the schemes themselves and for my Department. Given the volume and breath of the data being returned, the financial review of CE schemes has taken longer than originally envisaged to complete. This has allowed more time for schemes to engage with local officials in the finalisation of their respective budgets and for my Department to bring forward improvements to the overall operation of Community Employment which will improve the budgetary situation for schemes.
However due to the current economic circumstances, this Department has had to find significant savings in the Budget for 2012. The reduction only applies to the grant for materials and training and represents a reduction of 7.5% of the overall expenditure on Community Employment in 2011. The allowance grants for Supervisors are unchanged, as are the working hours for staff employed under Community Employment. There will be no decrease in the number of Community Employment places allocated in 2012.
While no final allocations of materials and training grants have been made pending completion of the review, the existing commitment in relation to the financial support of schemes will continue to apply.
Mortgage Interest Supplement
Andrew Doyle
Question:118 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding mortgage interest supplement in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow. [24414/12]
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 19th October 2011. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Community Welfare Services papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought. These papers were received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office and the case will be referred to an Appeals Officer who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on the documentary evidence presented or, if required, hold an oral hearing.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
Rural Social Scheme
Éamon Ó Cuív
Question:119 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Social Protection her plans to continue with the rural social scheme for the next year; the reason that a new clause was inserted in the rural social scheme contracts stating that termination may occur in circumstances which are not foreseen at the outset of the contract, such as a lack of State funding for the RSS and her decision to wind down the RSS; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24417/12]
Following a review of the rural social scheme (RSS) in 2011 by the Comptroller and Auditor General, the Department undertook to re-examine a number of arrangements underpinning the operations of the RSS. This examination included a review of template for participant contracts which is provided by the Department to the 35 Implementing Bodies to ensure consistency of approach across the scheme. In keeping with good practice, the template attempted to identify, insofar as it was possible to determine, those matters which could be defined as unforeseeable events leading to possible termination of the contract which could not be anticipated at the time it was agreed. For this reason alone, the wording on the template contract was amended as set out in the Deputy's question. While this revised template was welcomed as an improvement on the previously used templates, the Department was happy to provide additional clarification where concerns were raised with respect to one aspect of the text used.
Social Welfare Code
Patrick Nulty
Question:120 Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding social welfare recipients who are currently receiving a double payment with respect to community employment schemes and who are on illness benefit or invalidity pension; if her attention has been drawn to concerns raised by persons who are in this situation and who are concerned about recent budgetary changes; the steps she will take to address their concerns; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24422/12]
As per the Budget 2012, Community Employment (CE) participants in receipt of illness benefit or invalidity pension who commenced on CE before the 16th January 2012 and who have their CE contracts renewed after the 16th January 2012 will retain their original social welfare payment (in addition to their CE Single Adult Rate). The retention of their social welfare payment is dependent upon them being continuously employed on CE from that date and that they are granted a further Exemption from the Rules of Behaviour for continued receipt of their social welfare payment whilst working on the CE project. The granting of such Exemptions is an on-going requirement for the making of these payments.
This provision for dual payments is subject to the standard CE participation limits and a final cut-off date for double payments of December 2014. All CE participants will receive a single payment only from that date. Persons commencing employment on CE on or after 16th January 2012, who have not participated on CE in the 12 months preceding their commencement, will only receive the one main payment from CE.
National Internship Scheme
Terence Flanagan
Question:121 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Social Protection the amount of people who have successfully gained full-time employment as a result of interning on the JobBridge scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24449/12]
The National Internship Scheme was launched on 1st July 2011. It provides internship opportunities of either 6 or 9 months for unemployed individuals on the Live Register, at all skills levels. The aim of JobBridge is to assist individuals in breaking the cycle where they are unable to get a job without experience. It provides them with an opportunity to gain valuable experience, relevant knowledge and skills within a working environment. The Scheme is open to organisations in the private, public and community or voluntary sectors.
The Scheme has made significant progress to-date. There are currently 4,722 interns undertaking internship placements. In addition, there are in excess of 1,800 internship posts currently advertised on the JobBridge website www.jobbridge.ie.
As at 14th May, 2,364 interns had completed their internship placements. Our records indicate that 890 (38%) of these 2,364 finishers have progressed directly into employment on immediate completion of their internship with either their JobBridge Host Organisation or another company. It is important to note that this data does not take account of an intern who may have secured employment in the subsequent weeks or months after completing their internship. A picture of the career paths of JobBridge interns will become clearer following the independent evaluation of the scheme which is being undertaken by Indecon International Economic Consultants.
Job Creation
Terence Flanagan
Question:122 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Social Protection the details on the recent announcement to expand the JobBridge scheme by 1,000 places; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24450/12]
The National Internship Scheme was launched on 1 July 2011. It provides internship opportunities of either 6 or 9 months for unemployed individuals on the Live Register, at all skills levels. The aim of JobBridge is to assist individuals in breaking the cycle where they are unable to get a job without experience. It provides them with an opportunity to gain valuable experience, relevant knowledge and skills within a working environment. The Scheme is open to organisations in the private, public and community or voluntary sectors.
The Scheme has made significant progress to-date. 7,102 internship placements have commenced since the launch of the Scheme in July 2011. There are currently 4,722 interns undertaking internship placements. In addition, there are in excess of 1,800 internship posts currently advertised on the JobBridge website www.jobbridge.ie. Such has been the level of demand for the scheme, I am delighted to have announced proposals, on 9 May, to increase the number of places available in JobBridge and to widen the eligibility criteria. The number of available places has been increased to 6,000 with immediate effect. The eligibility criteria will also be extended to include those in receipt of One Parent Family Payment and Disability Allowance. These changes will take effect from 28 May 2012.
JobBridge was one of the pillars of the Government's first Jobs Initiative and it set out to help those seeking employment to gain valuable experience while enhancing their prospects of securing employment. It is one element of the Department of Social Protection's wider activation programme and a good example of how we engage with Jobseekers.
Questions Nos. 123 and 124 withdrawn.
Pension Provisions
Joanna Tuffy
Question:125 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding plans for a credit based system, under the home makers scheme which will grant credits to persons for time spent home making; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24498/12]
The homemaker scheme makes qualification for the State pension (contributory) easier for those who take time out of the workforce for caring duties. The scheme was introduced in and took effect from 1994. 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.
To be eligible for the homemaker scheme, a person must:
Permanently live in the State;
Be aged under 66;
Have started insurable employment or self-employment on or after the age of 16 and before the age of 56;
Not work full-time, although a person can work and earn less than €38 gross per week;
Care for a child (under 12) or an incapacitated person on a full-time basis.
The homemaker disregard (or the homemaker credit) 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 520 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.
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. 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 is being considered.
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 State pension (contributory) as a yearly average of only 10 along with 10 years' paid contributions over a working career is sufficient to qualify for a minimum pension. Alternatively, they may qualify, depending on their means, for a higher rate of State pension (non-contributory).
Rent Supplement
Jack Wall
Question:126 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kildare has not received any information or confirmation of an application despite the fact that the application was made on 24 October 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24501/12]
The client was requested to provide further information on the 17th of October 2011 in relation to his rent supplement application. The Department only received the necessary information from the person concerned on the 30th of April 2012. The rent supplement claim has now been awarded in full.
Departmental Agencies
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:127 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the date on which he last met the chief executive officers of each of the agencies under the remit of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24467/12]
I wish to advise the Deputy that, since taking up office on the 9th March 2011, I have met with the Chairs and/or CEOs of all Agencies under the aegis of my Department. In addition, I have had meetings with the Commission for Energy Regulation, the Chair and Chief Executive of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland and the Commission for Communications Regulation.
Planning Issues
Brendan Smith
Question:128 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will clarify the controls, regulations and prohibitions, if any, on the provision of occasional car parking for reward on private land, that is close to sporting or other such events; if there are any regulations on same; if same can be outlined and if enforcing authority, if any, can be outlined. [24585/12]
Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government (Deputy Jan O’Sullivan): Under the Planning and Development Act 2000, the making of a material change in the use of any land comprises development and therefore requires planning permission (unless it is specifically exempted under the Act or Regulations). It is a matter for the relevant planning authority to decide in the first instance whether a material change of use has taken or is taking place. A decision of the planning authority on the matter may be referred to An Bord Pleanála for review under section 5 of the Planning and Development Act 2000.
Household Charge
Joanna Tuffy
Question:129 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of households registered for an exemption on grounds of being in receipt of mortgage interest supplement; the way this compares to the numbers of households in receipt of this payment according to the records of her Department; if any attempt has been made to contact those who have not registered for the exemption in particular in case the persons concerned who do not realise they are entitled to a waiver and have either not registered and not paid are unaware of the exemption or that they have paid because they are unaware of the exemption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24362/12]
Joanna Tuffy
Question:130 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of households registered as being entitled to a waiver in respect of the household charge on grounds of being in an unfinished estate; the way this compares to the numbers of houses known by his Department to be in unfinished housing estates; the attempts that have been made to contact those households living in qualifying unfinished housing estates that have not registered to ensure that they do register for this waiver; the checks that have been made to ensure no household in a qualifying unfinished housing estate has inadvertently paid the charge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24371/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 129 and 130 together.
The Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 and the Local Government (Household Charge) Regulations 2012 provide the legislative basis for the household charge. The Act places the household charge under the care and management of the local authorities, and application in particular circumstances is a matter for the relevant local authority. Interpretation of the legislation is a matter for legal advice in individual cases and ultimately a matter for the Courts. 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. In this regard, it is a matter for the owner of a residential property to assess his or her liability to the household charge on a self assessment basis. The household charge is being administered by the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) on a shared service/agency basis on behalf of all county and city councils.
Significant measures have been taken to ensure that property owners are aware of the household charge and of the exemptions and waivers available. The LGMA and local authorities have carried out a national information campaign to advise people of the household charge and their responsibilities in relation to the household charge. A household charge information leaflet and final reminder was also issued to residential properties in the State.
I am confident that owners of residential properties have been made aware of their obligations under the Act. Of course, should an owner of a residential property subsequently indicate that he/she was entitled to a waiver from payment of the household charge, that person may make an application for a refund of a household charge by completing the refund form HC12B and returning it to the Household Charge Support Centre, PO Box 12168, Dublin 1. This form is available from the Household Charge Support Centre at the above address — LoCall 1890-357357 or 01-2224000. Alternatively the form may be downloaded from www.householdcharge.ie or obtained from local authorities.
The information requested, which has been compiled by the Local Government Management Agency, is set out in the following table:
|
Total No. of Waivers Registered |
No. Registered for Mortgage Interest Supplement Waiver |
No. Registered for Unfinished Housing Estate Waiver |
No. Registered for Both Waivers |
|
16,360 |
4,403 |
11,653 |
304 |
There are an estimated 50,000 entitled to claim waivers from payment of the household charge; some 18,000 in respect of entitlement to mortgage interest supplement and 32,000 in the context of unfinished housing estates.
Joanna Tuffy
Question:131 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of households that paid a penalty for late payment of the household charge to date; the amount of money in total that has been received in penalties to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24372/12]
The household charge is being administered by the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) on a shared service/agency basis on behalf of all county and city councils. The information requested, which has been complied by the LGMA, is set out in the following table.
|
Number of Late Payments |
Amount received in Late Payment Penalties |
|
24,098 |
€267,039 |
Joanna Tuffy
Question:132 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of households that have paid and registered for the household charge to date; the number of households that have registered for waivers or exemptions to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24373/12]
The Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 provides the legislative basis for the household charge. Under the Act, an owner of a residential property on the liability date of 1 January 2012 is liable to pay the household charge, unless otherwise exempted or entitled to claim a waiver. The household charge is on a self-assessment basis and it is a matter for an owner of a residential property on the liability date to determine if he/she has a liability and, if so, to declare that liability and pay the household charge.
The Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) is administering the household charge system on a shared service/agency basis for all county and city councils. I understand, from data provided by the LGMA, that as of noon on 14 May, a total of 845,442 property declarations have been processed by the household charge bureau. 829,082 registered for payment of the charge equating to some €83m. 16,360 residential property owners have registered for a waiver from payment of the charge.
In addition, 87,500 postal applications have been received in the household charge bureau, which have yet to be processed; these equate to a further €8.8m. A further 6,500 declarations have been received by local authorities equating to some €0.65.m. This gives a total number of 939,442 declarations made equating to some €93m.
Regeneration Projects
Thomas Pringle
Question:133 Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide a breakdown of the expenditure of regeneration funding on consultants, firms providing professional services and organisations providing community support in respect of a regeneration project in County Sligo, for the years 2008 and 2009; the names of the said consultants, firms or organisations; the sum that each received; the service that each provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24386/12]
Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government (Deputy Jan O’Sullivan): Local authorities are responsible for the detailed administration and management of all the projects and measures associated with the social, economic and physical regeneration of estates. Regeneration masterplans adopt a multi-agency approach to social inclusion and economic regeneration with the objective of delivering significant non-housing public investment in services and facilities to address underlying disadvantage and deliver settled sustainable communities. The information requested with regard to projects and measures funded out of my Department’s allocation for the Sligo regeneration project is set out in the following table:
|
Firm/Organisation |
Services provided |
Amount |
|
Hamilton Young Architects |
Architectural Services |
€6,485.60 |
|
O’Connor Sutton Cronin |
Consulting Engineering Services |
€6,050.00 |
|
Nolan and Quinlan Architects |
Architectural Services |
€1,815.00 |
|
Land Survey Services |
Land Surveying |
€1,380.00 |
|
MWA Partnership Ltd |
Landscape Architecture Services |
€44,942.00 |
|
Headland Archaeology |
Archaeological Services |
€17,666.00 |
|
Murray and Associates |
Landscape Architecture Services |
€76,423.00 |
|
Archaeological Development Services Ltd |
Archaeological Services |
€3,011.00 |
|
Cranmore Community Platform |
Community Support |
€15,572.56 |
|
Sligo Sport and Recreation Partnership |
Community Sports |
€10,000.00 |
|
Firm/Organisation |
Services provided |
Amount |
|
Murphy and Sons |
Valuation Service |
€8,416.62 |
|
OHSS Safety Consultants |
Surveys and Reports |
€14,936.14 |
|
Cox Power and Associates |
Architectural Services |
€34,323.75 |
|
O’Connor Sutton and Cronin |
Engineering Services |
€31,833.00 |
|
Murray and Associates |
Landscape Architecture Services |
€34,020.00 |
|
Cranmore Community Platform |
Community Support |
€5,026.56 |
|
Sligo Sports and Recreation Partnership |
Community Sports |
€10,000.00 |
Household Charge
Gerald Nash
Question:134 Deputy Gerald Nash asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide, in tabular form, statistics of those who have paid the household charge by the number of housing units owned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24391/12]
The household charge is being administered by the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) on a shared service/agency basis on behalf of all county and city councils. The information requested, which has been complied by the LGMA, is set out in the following table:
|
No. of Properties |
1 |
2 to 10 |
11 to 20 |
21 to 30 |
31 to 40 |
41 to 50 |
51 to 100 |
101 to 200 |
201 to 300 |
300 to 400 |
|
Household Charges Paid |
548,228 |
88,255 |
1,265 |
279 |
123 |
62 |
103 |
29 |
4 |
3 |
Planning Issues
Eric J. Byrne
Question:135 Deputy Eric Byrne asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 63 of 8 December 2011, the current status of discussions as outlined in his previous answer; the progress that has been made in relation to this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24415/12]
Ireland's Waymarked Ways and the majority of other walking routes are "permissive access routes" that have been developed with the landowners' agreement; they are not public rights of way. Some Government and semi-state organisations also encourage access to their lands for public enjoyment (e.g. Coillte). Even in these areas, access is permissive and the public do not have a right of access. Given the importance of continued improvement of the Wicklow Way, I requested that discussions be initiated with local landowners to see if agreed access can be secured in respect of the section of lands referred to in Question 63 of 8 December 2011. These discussions are ongoing, but as yet permission has not been secured from the private landowner to reroute the section of the Wicklow Way in question. It is intended that these efforts will continue, but ultimately progress in this area requires the goodwill and consent of the relevant landowner.
Some progress is being achieved in relation to identifying appropriate reroutes of some sections of the Wicklow Way off busy public roads. A section of approximately 1km in length has been identified in the area of Ballinastoe that can be moved off road, subject to the availability of funding. Options are currently being examined in that regard. There are also possibilities around rerouting some on road sections, totalling about 1.5 km, in the area of Tinahely on the southern section of the trail. The maintenance and improvement of long distance walking routes and National Waymarked Ways is an ongoing project, with the intention of having no more than 10% of such priority routes on road. Given the current limitations on resources it will take time to achieve such improvements.
Flood Relief
Terence Flanagan
Question:136 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the steps he is taking to address problems with flooding in Dublin as a result of poor weather; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24453/12]
Flood risk management and mitigation, including development of a national flood forecasting and warning system, are the responsibility of the Office of Public Works. Questions relating to surface water drainage issues which may contribute to flooding are a matter for the local authorities in the Dublin area. The response to flooding incidents is delivered by the Principal Response Agencies (the relevant local authorities, An Garda Síochána and the HSE), and is led and co-ordinated by the relevant local authority. The Principal Response Agencies respond to flooding in accordance with the 2006 Framework for Emergency Management, each agency operating under its Major Emergency Plan, and working with a range of other bodies and agencies which have roles to play.
The co-ordination and response management arrangements may be invoked to manage a flooding incident, whether a major emergency is declared or not. The Government-approved Framework requires local authorities to prepare severe weather plans and flood emergency plans, as sub-plans of their Major Emergency Plan. I understand that all local authorities have Severe Weather Plans in place and, where a local risk assessment process so indicates, have Flood Emergency Plans also. If a major emergency is declared because of flooding my Department is designated as Lead Government Department and co-ordinates the "whole of Government" response at national level, primarily in support of the local response effort.
The co-ordination arrangements in the Framework for Major Emergency Management were embedded across the Principal Response Agencies during a two-year Major Emergency Development Programme from 2006 to 2008. This was overseen by an inter-Departmental Major Emergency Management National Steering Group comprising representatives of my Department, and the Departments of Justice and Equality, Health, Defence and Transport. These arrangements were used to manage severe weather emergencies in the winters of 2009 and 2010. In accordance with the provisions of the Framework, reviews of these responses have been carried out, and further recommendations arising from the review process continue to be implemented through on-going inter-agency preparedness arrangements.
Social and Affordable Housing
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:137 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the main approach with which the housing list across Ireland will be addressed in 2012; the number of persons and families that may expect to be rehoused in social housing during 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24478/12]
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:138 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on the high numbers of applicants waiting for rehousing through social housing programmes across local authorities; the number by which he expects the lists to be reduced in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24479/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 137 and 138 together.
The Government's housing policy statement, published in June 2011, clearly identifies that the priority for Government will be to meet the most acute needs of households applying for social housing support. I am determined to ensure that the social housing programme is framed in a manner which optimises the delivery of social housing and the return for the resources invested. To achieve this it is essential that we tailor the use of available Exchequer supports to prevailing conditions and explore the full range of solutions to address housing needs. The social housing capital budget has been reduced from €1.535 billion in 2008 to just over €333.7m this year, and the financial parameters within which we will be operating for the coming years rule out a return to large capital funded construction programmes. Nevertheless, the Government is committed to responding more quickly and on a larger scale to social housing support needs through a variety of mechanisms, including through increased provision of social housing. In spite of the challenging circumstances within which local authorities are forced to operate, a tentative projection of 4,000 to 4,500 housing units is anticipated for 2012.
Delivery of social housing will be significantly facilitated through more flexible funding models such as the Rental Accommodation Scheme and leasing, but the Government is also committed to developing other funding mechanisms that will increase the supply of permanent new social housing. Such mechanisms will include options to purchase, build to lease and the sourcing of loan finance by approved housing bodies for construction and acquisition. There is also obvious potential, across a range of housing programmes, for the Government's objective of sourcing and providing suitable residential units for use as social housing to be aligned with the commercial objectives of the National Asset Management Agency (NAMA).
My Department does not hold information on the number of households on local authorities' waiting lists at any given time. This number inevitably continuously fluctuates as households are allocated housing and new households apply for housing support. Detailed information on the latest statutory assessment of housing need carried out in March 2011, including a breakdown by housing authority, is available on my Department's website – www.environ.ie or on the Housing Agency’s website at www.housing.ie.
Property Taxation
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:139 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when he will be in a position to announce the long-term property tax scheme; if he is reportedly considering including all land in that scheme; the approximate sums that might be realised from a general land property tax as is common across most of the EU towards the continuing gap in the primary general government deficit and for a fair resolution of the fiscal problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24480/12]
An independently chaired Inter-Departmental expert Group has been established to consider the structures and modalities for an equitable valuation based property tax. The Group will complete its work and make recommendations to me shortly. Following consideration of the Group's recommendations, I will bring proposals to Government on the full property tax as soon as possible. It will then be a matter for the Government to decide on the structure and modalities of the full property tax.
Motor Taxation
Simon Harris
Question:140 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the way in which motor tax payable on a specific model of car can vary considerably depending on the date of purchase; his plans to address this anomaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter [24484/12]
The motor tax system currently has two systems of charging for private vehicles. For vehicles registered prior to 2008, taxation is on the basis of engine capacity. To incentivise reductions in emissions of greenhouse gases, for those registered from 2008 onwards, motor tax is based on the CO2 emissions level of the vehicle. The question of applying the new CO2 based motor tax system to all private vehicles was subject to detailed discussion during the debate on the Motor Vehicle (Duties and Licences) Act 2008. Retrospection would not be possible, as the CO2 data for the pre-July 2008 car fleet were not authenticated for business purposes. The cost of any retrospection could be substantial were it possible, depending on how it applied, and could have direct implications for the revenue base of local government.
On Budget Day, 06 December 2011, a review of the current system of Vehicle Registration Tax, which is also based on CO2 emissions, and motor tax was announced, with the objective of adjusting CO2 bands and rates in line with technological advances, while maintaining a positive environmental incentive to reduce transport emissions and protecting and improving revenues for the State. The review, a joint undertaking by the Department of Finance and my Department, with input from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport and the Revenue Commissioners, is now in progress, and any changes to the motor tax system will be considered in that context.
Interdepartmental Committees
Brendan Smith
Question:141 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when the interdepartmental committee established in relation to State involvement with the Magdalene Laundries will report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24393/12]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 516 on 14 February last. The Committee has indicated their intention to conclude their work by mid year.
Reply to Parliamentary Question No. 516 on Tuesday 14th February, 2012.
The Inter-Departmental Committee, under the independent chairmanship of Senator Martin McAleese, submitted an interim progress report last October which was considered by Cabinet and published on my Department's website www.justice.ie. The Committee, which is receiving the full co-operation of Government Departments, the religious orders, and representative groups of women who were formerly resident in the Laundries, indicated their intention to conclude their work by mid 2012.
Liquor Licensing Laws
Jim Daly
Question:142 Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views in relation to the Intoxicating Liquor Act and in particular the onus on supermarket owners to structurally separate the off-licence area from the grocery area and the dedication of a staff member and cash point for the off-licence area; if he will consider alternative measures to achieve tightening of sale regulations with less cost to the employer in view of the current financial conditions in the retail sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24351/12]
On receipt of the third Compliance Report on the RRAI Code of Practice on the Display and Sale of Alcohol in Mixed Trading Premises, I launched a public consultation process inviting views on the Report and, more generally, on the voluntary approach to implementing structural separation of alcohol products in supermarkets, convenience stores and other mixed trading outlets.
Following an examination of the submissions received, the choice now lies between implementation of the statutory provisions in section 9 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2008 or implementation of a statutory code of practice under section 17 of the Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2011. I expect to be in a position to seek Government approval for my proposals in relation to future arrangements for the display and sale of alcohol products in mixed trading outlets in the coming weeks.
Garda Deployment
Thomas Pringle
Question:143 Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 286 of 6 December 2011 and No. 511 of 21 February 2012, the number of gardaí in the Donegal division serving in Gaeltacht areas who are available and able to conduct business through Irish with members of the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24363/12]
I refer the Deputy to the letter which issued to him on 23 April 2012 in response to the earlier questions. That correspondence clarified that 48 members in the Donegal Division are in receipt of the Gaeltacht Allowance and are attached to the stations outlined in the below table:
|
Station |
|
|
Na Brocacha |
Milford |
|
An Craosloch |
Na Gleannta |
|
Kilmacrennan |
An Fál Carrach |
|
Anagaire |
Na Cealla Beaga |
|
Ard An Rátha |
Kerrykeel |
|
An Bun Beag |
An Charraig |
|
Mín An Lábhain |
Carraig Airt |
|
Mountcharles |
Dun Fionnachaid |
|
An Clochan Liath |
Asylum Support Services
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:144 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the annual cost to the State for the supply of services to all asylum seeker centres, private and State owned. [24367/12]
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:145 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number and location of each State owned accommodation centre; the person who operates them on behalf of the State; the cost to the Exchequer of each centre; the tendering process involved in appointing the operator of the asylum reception centres; and if any incentives were given to localised suppliers to bid for the contracts associated with running the centre or supplying the centres; and when the renewal date for such contracts fall due. [24368/12]
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:146 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the procurement policy for supplies to each of the asylum seeker accommodation centres; if a single supplier for services and goods is used for several or all of the reception centres; if that supplier is based in Ireland and tax compliant; if the contractors or operators of centres are subsidiaries or connected in business to companies or entities outside of the European Union. [24369/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 144 to 146, inclusive, together.
These questions relate to the spending and procurement policy of the Reception and Integration Agency (RIA), a functional unit of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department, which is responsible for the accommodation of persons while their applications for international protection are being processed. Currently, almost 5,200 persons are being accommodated throughout the State in 38 centres under contract to RIA.
At appendix A of this answer is a breakdown of the €69.459 million expended by RIA in 2011. The estimates provision for RIA in 2012 is €63.5 million.
Of the 38 centres in the State, 7 are State owned. That is to say, while the centres are managed by private contractors under contract to RIA, the land and buildings are owned by the State. At appendix B is a list of all current RIA centres broken down by contractor. This list also identifies those 7 State owned centres. The Deputy should be aware that RIA has recently completed an EU tender for the management of these State owned centres. While the preferred bidders have been so advised, the relevant contracts will not be in place until early June and it would not be legally appropriate under the regulations to issue such information prior to the start of these contracts.
Details of the costs of each of the 38 centres will be forwarded directly to the Deputy shortly. In this respect it is important to note that, as explained in replies to previous Dáil Questions, it is not in the interest of the taxpayer that details of current individual contracts are known to the public or to other parties who are, or may be in the future, engaged in negotiations with RIA. Therefore, details of current contract rates are not provided. The policy is that the updating of the table of contracts will take place only at the end of January each year in respect of all financial information up to the end of December two years previously, e.g. at the end of January, 2012 the records are updated to end of December 2009. This policy has been upheld by the Office of the Information Commissioner.
All companies under contract to RIA are contractually obliged to have valid, current tax clearance certificates.
In relation to RIA's tendering processes, I have explained in responses to previous Dáil Questions that RIA does not lease or rent premises from commercial contractors. Rather, it "contracts-in" a comprehensive range of services and facilities, which include accommodation, food provision, housekeeping etc., for a fixed sum over the period of the contract.
A distinction needs to be drawn in relation to procurement processes as between RIA's State-owned accommodation centres and the commercially owned and operated centres. The tender process for the management of the State owned centres is carried out by way of public competition in accordance with EU Council Directive 2004/18/EC (co-ordinating procedures for the award of public works contracts, public supply contracts and public service contracts) as implemented into Irish law by Statutory Instrument 329 of 2006. In relation to the commercially owned and operated centres, RIA advertises in the national press for expressions of interest from persons interested in providing accommodation and other ancillary services for asylum seekers. RIA procurement also has regard to the provisions of the Department of Finance Circular 10/10 on the Facilitation of SME Participation in Public procurement, a copy of which is available on the Government's e-tender website www.etenders.gov.ie.
The RIA procurement process was subject to scrutiny in the Value For Money (VFM) review in respect of spending by RIA on asylum seeker accommodation which was published in May, 2010. A copy of this review is in the Oireachtas Library and is also viewable on the RIA website: www.ria.gov.ie. The Review acknowledges the unique challenges in this particular area of procurement, e.g. the unpredictability of demand, the requirement to disperse asylum seekers around the country, local opposition to the opening of new centres, children settled in schools and so on. Among the recommendations of the VFM report was the introduction of a mix of “contracts for capacity” and “contracts for availability and occupancy” as well as a “more open” tendering system in respect of the commercially owned and operated centres in the RIA portfolio. Preparatory work will begin on devising a more open tendering process for the commercially owned centres when the current State owned tender competition is completed next month. This will be a difficult exercise as the tender process will have to take account of “non-money” issues such as access to social, educational and health services as well as adherence to long standing Government policy on dispersal of asylum seekers throughout the country so that no one region is disproportionately burdened in relation to service provision, as well as a recognition that other State agencies may have already committed resources in a particular region or area.
In relation to the services to asylum seekers contracted by RIA, such as food, accommodation and ancillary services, these, by definition, have to be provided in Ireland. In relation to the question of whether contractors or operators of centres are subsidiaries or connected in business to companies or entities outside of the European Union, it will be seen from Appendix B that all have business addresses in Ireland. To RIA's knowledge, only one of its contractors would fall into the category of being a "subsidiary or connected in business to companies or entities outside the European Union"— i.e., Aramark Ltd. I understand that this company is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Aramark Corporation which is headquartered in Philadelphia in the USA. Aramark Ireland Ltd. has had a presence in Ireland since 2005 when it invested in the Irish firm Campbell Catering Ltd. I am also advised that Aramark Ireland Ltd. currently has over 4,000 employees in Ireland.
|
Type |
Explanation |
Spend |
|
Commercial* |
37 Centres commercially owned |
€57.784m |
|
State Owned |
7 centres owned by the State |
€8.258m |
|
Self Catering |
2 non direct provision commercially owned centres |
€1.687m |
|
Pre School |
Payments for wages, consumables etc. in 8 pre schools |
€0.128m |
|
Additional costs (including Gas, Electricity, Oil, Phone, Water, Waste, Sewerage, OPW, etc.) |
Direct spending by RIA on additional costs in State owned centres |
€1.458m |
|
Transport** |
Direct spending by RIA on transport of asylum seekers on dispersals around country. |
€0.068m |
|
Miscellaneous |
Payments for nappies, legal costs etc. |
€0.076m |
|
Total |
€69.459m |
Notes:
*This figure also includes the amount paid for the 7 commercially owned centres closed during 2011.
**This represents direct spending by RIA on costs in relation to, transport to reception centres and, onwards on dispersal, to accommodation centres. Individual centres also provide transport (e.g. into local town or city) for resident asylum seekers but this cost is subsumed into the overall contract price.
|
Contractor |
Centres |
|
|
1 |
Bridgestock Ltd |
Old Convent, Abbey Street, Ballyhaunis |
|
Globe House, Chapel Hill, Sligo |
||
|
Lisbrook House, Headford Road, Galway |
||
|
Athlone Accommodation Centre, Lissywoolen, Athlone [State-owned] |
||
|
2 |
East Coast Catering (Ireland) Ltd |
Balseskin, St. Margarets, Co. Dublin |
|
Hatch Hall, 28A Lower Hatch St. Dublin 2 |
||
|
Carroll Village, Dundalk [SC] |
||
|
3 |
Mosney Irish Holidays plc |
Mosney, Mosney |
|
4 |
Barlow Properties / Alan Hyde and Ted Murphy / Stompool Investments Ltd / Baycaster Ltd / D and A Ltd / Oval Rock Ltd |
Ashbourne Hse, Glounthane |
|
Glenvera, Wellington Road, Cork |
||
|
Birchwood, Ballytruckle Road, Waterford |
||
|
Mount Trenchard, Foynes, Co. Limerick |
||
|
Clonakilty Lodge, Clonakilty, Co. Cork |
||
|
5 |
The Old Rectory George Ltd / Fazyard Ltd |
The Towers, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 |
|
Georgian Court, Dublin 1 |
||
|
The Montague, Emo, Co. Laois |
||
|
6 |
Millstreet Equestrian Services Ltd |
Millstreet, Millstreet, Co Cork |
|
Bridgewater House, Carrick-on-Suir |
||
|
Viking House, Waterford |
||
|
7 |
Aramark Ltd |
Kinsale Rd, Cork City [State-owned] |
|
Knockalisheen, Meelick, Co Clare [State-owned] |
||
|
8 |
Onsite Facilities Management Ltd (OFM Ltd) |
Johnson Marina, Dingle Road, Tralee, Co Kerry [State-owned] |
|
Atlas House, McCowan Lane, Tralee, Co Kerry [State-owned] |
||
|
Atlas House, Deerpark Road, Killarney, Co Kerry [State-owned] |
||
|
Park Lodge, Park Road, Killarney, Co kerry [State-owned] |
||
|
9 |
Maplestar Ltd |
Eglinton, Salthill, Galway |
|
10 |
Tattonward Ltd / Rafstone Enterprises Ltd / Chidlane Ltd |
The Horse and Carriage, 15 Aungier St., D2 |
|
St Patricks, Monaghan |
||
|
11 |
Onsite Facilities Management |
Johnson Marina [State-owned] |
|
Atlas Tralee [State-owned] |
||
|
12 |
Shaun Hennelly |
Great Western House, Galway |
|
13 |
Birch Rentals Ltd |
Hanratty’s, Glentworth Street, Limerick |
|
14 |
Westbourne Holiday Hostel Ltd |
Westbourne, Dock Rd., Limerick |
|
15 |
Cherryport Ltd |
Eyre Powell, Newbridge |
|
16 |
Connemara + Islands Heritage Tourism Ltd |
Dun Gibbons, Clifden |
|
17 |
Atlantic Blue Limited |
Atlantic House, Tramore |
|
18 |
P. Monaghan + F. McDonnell |
Watergate House, Dublin 8[SC] |
|
19 |
Daniel Moore |
Ocean View, Tramore |
|
20 |
Shane + Angie Timoney |
Cliffview, Donegal |
|
21 |
J. Gough + M. Campbell |
Viking Lodge, Dublin 8 |
|
[38 Centres] |
Management of Sex Offenders
Kevin Humphreys
Question:147 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether it is appropriate for a convicted sex offender, on probation, to be housed in the same facility as minors; his views on same; if he shares information with the Health Service Executive on those who have been convicted of sexual offences and may be housed in public facilities where vulnerable minors live; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24397/12]
It is understood that the Deputy is referring to an individual who is residing in accommodation provided by the Health Service Executive (HSE). Arrangements in that respect are a matter for the HSE for which I have no responsibility as Minister.
However, more generally, I can advise that issues in relation to the management of sex offenders in the community were considered in detail in two documents published by my Department. Both documents — The Management of Sex Offenders (January, 2009) and Summary of views received on the Management of Sex Offenders (October, 2010) — are available on the Department's website at www.justice.ie.
On the question of sharing information, the Probation Service supervises convicted sex offenders as defined under the Sex Offenders Act, 2001. Sex offenders are not a homogenous group and it cannot be assumed that all sex offenders pose the same level of risk. The focus of the work with sex offenders is assessment of risk of re-offending, monitoring of compliance with relevant court supervision orders, engagement and motivation of offenders to effect positive change and collaboration between all relevant agencies in managing risk.
The Probation Service has also trained its staff in the application of evidential sex offender risk assessment instruments and established SORAM (sex offender risk assessment and management) with An Garda Síochána and latterly the HSE in order to enhance public safety and the prevention of further offending. Meeting nationally and locally, each SORAM Committee considers the Risk Matrix 2000 and Stable and Acute 2007 risk assessment instruments, and any other factors relevant to risk for each individual case identifying specific risk factors; agreeing risk management plans; agree/ensuring the appropriate sharing of information with other agencies in accordance with data protection legislation.
In accordance with its Child Protection Policy, the Probation Service informs the HSE of sex offender releases from prison. It is viewed as good practice to ensure that the relevant Child Care Manager is informed of all sex offenders living in his/her designated area.
Deportation Orders
Martin Ferris
Question:148 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the options open to a person who has been deported in the past but now has residency in Ireland to prevent them from being questioned at airports because of the deportation on their passport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24412/12]
In general, a person who has been made subject to a Deportation Order would have to apply to have the Deportation Order revoked under Section 3(11) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended). It is only where such a person has succeeded in their application to have the Deportation Order against them revoked that they can subsequently be granted residency in the State.
If the Deputy, or the person to whom he refers, wishes to write directly to the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service of my Department setting out the specific details and circumstances involved, my officials will examine the matter and provide the appropriate advice.
Drug Seizures
Derek Nolan
Question:149 Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will provide in tabular form statistics of drug seizures in Galway in 2010, 2011 and to date in 2012, by type of drug, amount seized and street value of seizure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24436/12]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the data requested for the quantities, type and estimated values of drugs seized in An Garda Síochána's Galway Division are outlined in the tables below.
Figures are provided by the Garda Síochána Analyst Service and are based on quarterly data produced by the Forensic Science Laboratory.
The Programme for Government affirms the Government's steadfast commitment to tackling the problem of drug misuse through the National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016. An Garda Síochána's Policing Plan for this year also sets out key actions for tackling organised crime including drug trafficking. In this regard, An Garda Síochána remains fully committed to continuing to vigorously tackle the illegal supply of drugs at all levels.
|
Drug Type |
Quantity |
Estimated Street Value |
|
Cannabis |
3,100 grams |
€37,200 |
|
Cannabis Resin |
2,593 grams |
€15,558 |
|
Cannabis Plants |
57 plants |
€22,800 |
|
Heroin |
2 grams |
€300 |
|
Cocaine |
Nil |
Nil |
|
Ecstasy |
3 tablets |
€30 |
|
BZP |
Nil |
Nil |
|
Total Value |
€75,888 |
*Statistics provided for 2012 are operational, provisional and liable to change.
|
Drug Type |
Quantity |
Estimated Street Value |
|
Cannabis |
5,623 grams |
€67,476 |
|
Cannabis Resin |
2,724 grams |
€16,344 |
|
Cannabis Plants |
608 plants |
€243,200 |
|
Heroin |
49 grams |
€7,350 |
|
Cocaine |
5,361 grams |
€375,270 |
|
Ecstasy |
Nil |
Nil |
|
BZP |
3 grams and 1,100 tablets |
€5,650 |
|
Total Value |
€715,290 |
|
Drug Type |
Quantity |
Estimated Street Value |
|
Cannabis |
26,014 grams |
€312,168 |
|
Cannabis Resin |
16,625 grams |
€99,750 |
|
Cannabis Plants |
736 plants |
€294,400 |
|
Heroin |
79 grams |
€11,850 |
|
Cocaine |
172 grams |
€12,040 |
|
Ecstasy |
7 grams and 7,702 tablets |
€38,860 |
|
BZP |
521 grams and 315 tablets |
€27,625 |
|
Total Value |
€796,693 |
Garda Strength
Derek Nolan
Question:150 Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the resources that have been allocated to the Garda Drug Squad in Galway; if this number has decreased in recent years; the measures being taken to address the drug problem in the city; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24437/12]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of personnel specifically assigned to the Garda Drug Unit in Galway on 30 April 2009 and 30 April 2012 was 13 and 12 respectively. The total Divisional strength on each of those dates was 590 and 582 respectively.
The problem of drug misuse is tackled in a coordinated and integrated way under the National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016.
The Strategy seeks to address the harm caused to individuals and society through drug misuse by tackling the problem in a comprehensive and integrated way and by implementing what is known as a pillar based approach. This approach incorporates a wide range of measures targeted at drug supply reduction, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and research.
There is ongoing cooperation between the Garda National Drugs Unit and local Garda Drugs Units to ensure that a coordinated and effective approach to drug law enforcement is in place. Both the Garda National Drugs Unit and the Divisional units are supported in their work by officers from other national units such as the Organised Crime Unit, the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation. An Garda Síochána also has strong and strategic partnerships in place at international level targeting drug trafficking.
Garda Operations
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:151 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will report on Garda Operation Acer; the number of persons arrested and charged to date; the number of successful convictions secured to date; the amount of stolen property recovered to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24469/12]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that Operation Acer is one of the specific burglary related initiatives which are being implemented in each Garda Region in support of Operation Fiacla, which is a nationwide operation targeting mobile gangs involved in burglaries. Operation Acer has a focussed, targeted and integrated approach to tackling criminals involved in committing burglaries in the Dublin Metropolitan Region. The operation provides both a preventative and detection element and focuses on geographical areas and specific targets.
I am further informed that since the commencement of Operation Acer on 15 March 2012, up to 14 May, 398 persons have been arrested, 611 charges have been preferred and 19 summonses have been applied for. To date two persons have been convicted by the courts and sentenced to terms of imprisonment.
I am also informed that property worth €170,000, including large amounts of cash, electrical goods and high value jewellery items has been recovered since Operation Acer began. In addition, a number of vehicles, with an approximate value of €500,000, have been recovered following burglary incidents.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:152 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will report on Garda Operation Marton; 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. [24470/12]
Operation Marton is a policing operation which was commenced in 2008 by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI). The Operation involved the targeting of suspected trafficking and/or smuggling of non-EEA nationals into this jurisdiction, through Northern Ireland. A significant level of cross-border cooperation between the law enforcement authorities in Northern Ireland and An Garda Síochána, through the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), formed part of Operation Marton.
Investigations carried out in the course of Operation Marton resulted in the identification of a number of non-EEA nationals, who were suspected to have been smuggled into this State through Northern Ireland. Action taken by both thePSNI and An Garda Síochána led to the arrest in this jurisdiction of four individuals who entered this State illegally. Charges in respect of breaches of immigration related legislation were initiated in respect of these individuals. One was convicted in respect of a charge relating to failure to possess a valid visa and was made subject to section 1(1) of the Probation of Offenders Act; a deportation order was issued in respect of another of the individuals.
The law enforcement authorities in both jurisdictions concerned engaged in a series of coordinated actions on Thursday 5 June 2008. In the course of that day, An Garda Síochána conducted searches in six locations across the four counties of Dublin, Kildare, Meath and Louth. In Northern Ireland, the PSNI arrested two suspects, one of whom was subsequently charged in respect of six counts of facilitating the illegal entry of illegal immigrants into Ireland, through Northern Ireland. However, these charges were subsequently withdrawn by the Public Prosecution Service of Northern Ireland.
During the course of one of the searches undertaken by An Garda Síochána, a twelve year old female was discovered. This minor was suspected to have been trafficked into this country for the purpose of domestic servitude. She was placed in the care of the Health Service Executive. A file was subsequently forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions who directed that one person be prosecuted for a suspected breach of the provisions of section 29(2) of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud) Offences Act 2001. On 20 January 2011, at Dublin Circuit Appeal Court, a sentence of four months imprisonment, which was suspended, was imposed on the person who was charged with the offence. It was not possible to bring charges under the Criminal Law (Human Trafficking) Act, which did not come into operation until afterwards.
In addition, a request for assistance was received by An Garda Síochána from the Northern Ireland law enforcement authorities, pursuant to the provisions of the European Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters, in the course of Operation Marton. An Garda Síochána subsequently provided information which had been requested, to PSNI, through the aforementioned mutual assistance process.
While involvement by An Garda Síochána in this particular operation has concluded, An Garda Síochána and the PSNI continue to liaise closely in dealing with all matters concerning human trafficking and related criminal activities.
Crime Levels
Terence Flanagan
Question:153 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of convictions for knife related crime in Dublin city and county in 2010, 2011 and to date in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24504/12]
The Garda Síochána Act 2005 makes provision for the compilation and publication of crime statistics by the Central Statistics Office, as the national statistical agency, and the CSO has established a dedicated unit for this purpose.
I have requested the CSO to provide statistics directly to the Deputy.
Terence Flanagan
Question:154 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of burglaries reported in Dublin city and county in 2010, 2011, and to date in 2012; if he will give a breakdown by Garda district; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24505/12]
The Garda Síochána Act 2005 makes provision for the compilation and publication of crime statistics by the Central Statistics Office, as the national statistical agency, and the CSO has established a dedicated unit for this purpose.
I have requested the CSO to provide statistics directly to the Deputy.
Citizenship Applications
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:155 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the procedures to be followed in respect of an application for residency and naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24512/12]
I am advised that the person concerned was granted permission to remain in the State for a period of five years on the 13 February 2007 on the basis that he was the Spouse of an EU citizen who was residing in the State and in exercise of her EU Treaty Rights.
It then appears that on 4 April 2011 the person concerned advised the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that he was divorced from his EU citizen spouse since 20 March 2009, and that he now wished to retain the permission to reside under the provisions of Regulation 10 of the European Communities (Free Movement of Persons) Regulations 2006 and 2008 which provides for the retention of the right of residence by family members of an EU citizen in the event of divorce or annulment of marriage. It also appears, however, that the EU citizen spouse may have left the State around September 2008 prior to the initiation of any divorce proceedings.
Further information was requested from the applicant, through his Solicitor, by letter of 13 April 2011 in order to process the application for retention of permission to reside in the State under the provisions of Regulation 10 of the Regulations. The applicant's Solicitor indicated by letter of 15 November 2011 that it was not possible to provide the information requested. On 12 March 2012 a further letter issued through the applicant's Solicitor requesting additional information to process the case and to date no response has been received. A decision on the retention of permission will issue shortly based on the information already on file.
I am also advised that an application by the person concerned was submitted on 13 January 2012 in respect of the Zambrano Judgement. The child was born in the State on 15 December 2011 to a different partner, who is also claiming residence in the State based on being the parent of an Irish born child. In advance of a final decision being made, the case of the person concerned will be examined to determine what, if any, impact the recent European Court of Justice Judgment in the Belgian Zambrano case may have on his case.
I am further informed by the Citizenship Division of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that an application for a certificate of naturalisation was received from the person referred to by the Deputy in November, 2010.
The application is currently being processed with a view to establishing whether the applicant meets the statutory conditions for the granting of naturalisation, such as good character and lawful residence, and will be submitted to me for decision in due course.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from INIS is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
Residency Permits
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:156 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the current or expected position in respect of an application for residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24513/12]
Arising from the refusal of his asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 28 July 2011, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why a Deportation Order should not be made against him. In addition, he was notified of his entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006.
The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome.
In the event that the application for Subsidiary Protection is refused, the position in the State of the person concerned will then be decided by reference to the provisions of Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. All representations submitted will be considered before a final decision is made. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the INIS by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
Interdepartmental Committees
Maureen O'Sullivan
Question:157 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality in relation to the statutory instrument circulated regarding the inter-department committee on the Magdalene Laundries, his views on the way in which the statutory instrument empowers the committee to carry out its work; if the statutory instrument refers to privacy issues only and from those raised by records and or does it empower the committee to compel discovery of records; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24549/12]
I presume that the Deputy is referring to Statutory Instrument No. 486 of 2011 — Data Protection Act 1988 (Section 2B) Regulations 2011. This instrument deals only with data protection issues and in particular allows sensitive personal data to be disclosed to and processed by the inter-departmental committee charged with establishing the facts of State involvement with the Magdalen Laundries.
Anti-Social Behaviour
David Stanton
Question:158 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding the responsibility and liability of parents for the misbehaviour of their children, in particular with regard to damage to property and general nuisance; the legislative provisions governing same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23991/12]
I presume the Deputy, in referring to "misbehaviour" of children, means behaviour of a criminal nature or anti-social behaviour. I wish to inform the Deputy that the Children Act 2001, as amended, provides for a number of measures in relation to parental responsibility in respect of children aged 12 to 17 who are found guilty of offences or who are involved in anti-social behaviour.
Section 111 of the Act provides that in any proceedings in which a child is found guilty of an offence, the court may make an order for the supervision of the child's parents where it is satisfied that a wilful failure of the child's parents to take care of or control the child contributed to the child's criminal behaviour. Section 113 of the Act provides that where a court is satisfied of the guilt of a child and that the appropriate way of dealing with the case is to make a compensation order, it may order that the compensation be paid by the parent or guardian of the child instead of the child. Section 114 of the Act provides that a parent or guardian may be ordered by the court to enter into a recognisance to exercise proper and adequate control over their child. It should be noted, however, that the imposition of any particular sanction referred to above on the parents or guardians of a child found guilty of an offence is a matter for the judiciary.
In addition, Part 13 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 provides that when a Garda becomes aware of anti-social behaviour, the Garda may issue a behaviour warning to the child. Failure to obey the warning may result in a good behaviour contract being made involving the child, their parent(s) or guardian and the Gardaí. If a contract is broken or if it is not working, it can be renewed or, an application can be made to the Children Court for a Civil Behaviour Order. In addition to the Order, the court may also make a plan for the child to be supervised by their parents or guardian.
With regard to children under 12 years of age, Section 53 of the Children Act, as amended, sets out a series of clear steps which a member of An Garda Síochána should undertake when the Garda has reasonable grounds for believing that a child under the age of criminal responsibility has committed an offence. In the first instance the Garda should take the child to its parent or guardian or, if necessary, arrange for the child to be given into the custody of the HSE.
Defence Forces Recruitment
Clare Daly
Question:159 Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Defence the amount of recruitment to the Defence Forces in 2011 and 2012; and the basis for the decision to take on extra personnel in view of the overall public sector recruitment embargo and closure of barracks. [24536/12]
The Government has decided to accept my recommendation that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force will be maintained at 9,500. I believe that this is the optimum level required to fulfill all roles assigned by Government. The Military Authorities have advised that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force at 30 April, the latest date for which details are available, was 8,885 comprising 7,181 Army, 759 Air Corps and 945 Naval Service. I am further advised by the Military Authorities that a total of 494 General Service Recruits were enlisted into the Permanent Defence Force in 2011. In addition, there was an intake of 32 Cadets from the 2011 Cadetship competition. A further 29 general service recruits were inducted into the Permanent Defence Force up to 30 January 2012.
As the Permanent Defence Force is currently below the agreed serving cadre there will be phased recruitment of General Service Recruits in 2012 within the resource envelope allocated to Defence so as to maintain the Government approved strength of the Permanent Defence Force.
A recruitment competition was launched on Monday 2 April 2012, the closing date for which was 22 April 2012. Along with General Service recruitment a limited number of Instrumentalists will be enlisted in 2012. A Cadetship Competition was also advertised last week.
Erection of Memorial Plaque
Mary Lou McDonald
Question:160 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Defence if he will give permission to the family of a person (details supplied) to erect a plaque in Arbour Hill, Dublin, in his memory and to note that the family intend to pay all costs relating to the plaque. [24546/12]
My Department has previously dealt with representations made on behalf of the family in question regarding a proposal that a plaque be erected in honour of their relative who was executed in 1798. The response that issued at the time indicated that despite extensive research undertaken by my Department in an effort to establish the exact location of the execution, this could not be determined conclusively. Whilst the Church at Arbour Hill is owned by my Department, other surrounding properties, including the adjoining cemetery, are not my Department's property. As there is no certainty that the execution took place on what is now Department of Defence property, my Department is not in a position to approve the erection of such a plaque.
Aquaculture Licences
Thomas Pringle
Question:161 Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of appropriate assessments completed on Natura 2000 sites as part of the aquaculture licensing process; the number of AAs which are currently underway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24366/12]
My Department, in conjunction with the Marine Institute and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht is engaged in a comprehensive programme to gather the necessary baseline data appropriate to the conservation objectives of ‘Natura' areas. This data collection programme is substantially complete. Analysis of the data, together with the setting of appropriate conservation objectives by the NPWS, will enable all new, renewal and review applications to be appropriately assessed for the purpose of ensuring compliance with the EU Birds and Habitats Directives. This work represents a significant financial, administrative and scientific investment by the State in resolving this issue. The Appropriate Assessment of aquaculture applications is being dealt with on a bay-by-bay basis. To date, the Appropriate Assessment process is complete in respect of three bays covering approximately 100 aquaculture sites.
Thomas Pringle
Question:162 Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the expected waiting time for an aquaculture licence following the completion of an appropriate assessment on a Natura 2000 site as part of the aquaculture licensing process; if he considers this reasonable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24364/12]
Following the completion of an Appropriate Assessment in respect of a Natura 2000 site, an aquaculture licence application is considered under the provisions of the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act which include assessment of the application by statutory and non-statutory consultees and a period of general public consultation. It is not possible to predict with certainty what issues will arise from this process of consultation which may require further investigation. Accordingly, a precise timeline is not possible.
Addressing the issue of aquaculture licensing in Natura 2000 areas is a key priority for my Department and you can be assured that every effort is being made to expedite the determinations of aquaculture licence applications having regard to all the complexities involved.
Agri-Environment Options Scheme
Michael Lowry
Question:163 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of applications nationally under the agri-environment options scheme for 2010 and 2011 that are still waiting payment; the number of these cases in County Tipperary; the reasons for the delay in same; the steps being taken to resolve this delay; if his attention has been drawn to the hardship being caused as a result of this delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24413/12]
A total of 8,773 valid applications were received under the Agri-environment Options Scheme (AEOS 1) in 2010. Of this total, 636 are still awaiting payment in respect of 2010, 40 of which are in Co. Tipperary. 3,447 applicants are awaiting payment in respect of 2011, of which 189 are in Co. Tipperary.
A total of 6,895 applications were received under the scheme in 2011 (AEOS 11). 279 applications were rejected as not meeting the terms and conditions of the scheme and the remaining 6,616 successful applicants have been informed of their acceptance into the scheme. A substantial number have also been informed of, and asked to respond to, queries arising from their application form. Of these, 297 are Co. Tipperary farmers. Under the EU Regulations governing the scheme and other area-based payment schemes, a comprehensive administrative check of all applications, including cross-checks with the Land Parcel Identification System, must be completed before any payment can issue. This process is well advanced for all AEOS II applications and I expect that payments will commence in June. Payments in respect of 2012 will commence later in the year.
Successive EU audits have made it absolutely clear that compliance with the Regulations must be strictly adhered to and that all administrative checks must be passed and eligibility conditions met before payment issues. As a result, my Department is obliged to ensure that individual payments will not issue until all aspects of a farmer's application are in order, all outstanding documentation provided and all queries resolved. Outstanding payments under AEOS 1 arise because of outstanding queries on applications forms which are mostly associated with digitisation or inaccurate capital investment claim forms. The re-digitisation of land parcels is a particularly complex issue which can impact not only on the agri-environment application but also the Single Payment Scheme and/or Disadvantaged Areas Scheme payments to the farmers concerned. Insofar as 2011 payments are concerned, delays in payments arise mainly due to queries in relation to the capital investment claims submitted by farmers or failure by farmers to submit claims. Despite two letters and other reminders from my Department, many farmers have either failed to submit forms or have submitted inaccurate forms.
I am conscious of the importance of these payments to farmer's incomes and my Department is making every effort to assist farmers in regularising their applications and claims for payment. Additional resources have been assigned to dealing with queries and payments will continue to issue as quickly as possible as outstanding issues are resolved.
Finian McGrath
Question:164 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the assistance available to a person (details supplied) in County Galway in view of the changes to the agri-environment option scheme option. [24433/12]
The person named commenced REPS 3 in June 2006 and received payments for the five years of the contract period. The final Year 5 payment issued on 8th July 2011 for the amount of €9817.10 and a Supplementary payment of €200 issued in respect of Rare Breeds on 9th August 2011. The contract of the person named under REPS is now complete.
I am actively considering the possibility of re-opening the Agri-environmental Options Scheme to allow for the submission of applications either on an amended basis from the existing scheme and/or on a limited scale and, in particular, the possibility of re-opening for applications later in the year with a possible closing date for applications of end September and a commencement date for new participants of January 2013.
Habours Expenditure
John Deasy
Question:165 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide details of the levels of funding provided in the following fishing harbour centres, Castletownbere, Dunmore East, Howth, Killybegs, Rossaveel and Dingle in each of the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24463/12]
My Department administers the Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Capital Development Programme on an annual basis. The following table shows the expenditure under the programme at each of the six Fishery Harbour Centres in the last 10 years. The figures for Dingle Harbour date from 14th May 2007 which is the date that Dingle harbour was designated as a Fishery Harbour Centre (An Daingean Fishery Harbour Centre).
|
Year |
Castletownbere |
Dingle |
Dunmore East |
Howth |
Killybegs |
Rossaveal |
|
2011 |
€2,832,389 |
€695,093 |
€756,497 |
€479,978 |
€774,343 |
€2,224,805 |
|
2010 |
€4,515,186 |
€1,048,817 |
€281,781 |
€253,688 |
€558,024 |
€1,476,058 |
|
2009 |
€7,871,560 |
€410,937 |
€588,695 |
€176,863 |
€426,243 |
€4,087,224 |
|
2008 |
€7,635,735 |
€1,010,121 |
€580,634 |
€158,305 |
€410,287 |
€2,487,838 |
|
2007 |
€8,088,910 |
€307,000 |
€1,225,404 |
€169,828 |
€486,071 |
€2,086,738 |
|
2006 |
€10,985,109 |
€0 |
€573,438 |
€297,976 |
€2,367,570 |
€424,609 |
|
2005 |
€2,107,910 |
€0 |
€603,548 |
€213,130 |
€4,256,824 |
€5,693,869 |
|
2004 |
€1,943,585 |
€0 |
€908,690 |
€81,090 |
€8,613,686 |
€351,988 |
|
2003 |
€1,114,130 |
€0 |
€602,240 |
€106,198 |
€24,566,630 |
€285,817 |
|
2002 |
€1,241,846 |
€0 |
€582,372 |
€111,291 |
€15,397,288 |
€1,883,097 |
|
Total |
€48,336,360 |
€3,471,968 |
€6,703,299 |
€2,048,347 |
€57,856,966 |
€21,002,043 |
Agri-Environment Options Scheme
Paul Connaughton
Question:166 Deputy Paul J. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the remaining 25% will be paid in relation to the agri-environment options scheme 2010 and 2011 in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24499/12]
The person named was approved for participation in the Agri-Environment Options Scheme with effect from the 1st September 2010 and full payment totalling €1,116.57 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, must be completed before any payment can issue. Similar checks are carried out in respect of payment for the 2011 scheme year. These checks have been completed and 75% payment totalling €2,512.27 has issued to the person named in respect of 2011. The application was selected for a Cross Compliance inspection which resulted in a penalty being imposed. The cross compliance penalty, in this case 3%, will be deducted from the balancing payment which will issue at the earliest opportunity to the person named.
Departmental Bodies
Eoghan Murphy
Question:167 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will review a case in relation to a horse riding permit in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6. [24502/12]
Coillte Teoranta was established as a private commercial company under the Forestry Act, 1988 and day-to-day operational matters, such as mentioned by the Deputy are the responsibility of the company.
Harbours Fees
Brendan Griffin
Question:168 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will consider introducing a pay as you use system for waste and water at fishery harbour centres as well as making a distinction between imported waste, which must be deep buried, and locally generated waste, which is cheaper to dispose of; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24540/12]
Charges for the use of facilities at each of the six Fishery Harbour Centres are currently levied by virtue of the Fishery Harbour Centres (Rates and Charges) Order 2003. Each Fishery Harbour Centre is regarded as the Local Competent Authority and is required to have a fee structure so that all ships calling to port are required to contribute significantly to the provision of port waste facilities in the port, whether any particular ship avails of facilities or not. The Rates and Charges order operative since 2003 has a structure in place for fresh water to be charged at €2.50 per m3. However, my Department has recently conducted a review of the 2003 Order and a draft new Rates and Charges Order, the first proposed changes to the fee schedule for almost a decade, has been prepared on foot of that review. The new draft Order was the subject of a public consultation process that closed on 20th April last, and I am pleased to note that my Department has received a total of 87 submissions in relation to the revised charges, from a wide range of stakeholders in the Fishery Harbour Centres. These submissions are being given careful consideration at present, and when the examination is complete I will, if necessary, make any appropriate amendments to the draft new Rates and Charges Order before it is finalised.
Children in Care
Kevin Humphreys
Question:169 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of convicted sex offenders currently being housed in the same facility as minors, such as those that cater for homeless or vulnerable boys and girls at or under the age of 18 years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24398/12]
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy with the most up-to-date information.
Kevin Humphreys
Question:170 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her views on the recent case highlighted in a news report (details supplied) in which a convicted sex offender was housed in the same facility as minors; if she will elaborate the Health Service Executive’s position on this; her further views on the guidelines for the housing of convicted sex offenders particularly those who are minors or on the cusp of adulthood; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24399/12]
The HSE has provided me with further information regarding the particular case highlighted by the Deputy and on this basis I am satisfied that an appropriate risk assessment was undertaken by the HSE in deciding on this child's placement. The HSE has confirmed that as with all children in care and in particular those who have a history of sexually harmful behaviour, a full risk assessment is carried out and is subject to regular review. The assessed needs of the young person, including their safety and the safety of others are incorporated into the placement plan and care plan. Services such as psychology are consulted and the HSE works in partnership with the probation services as part of the process. Regular multi-disciplinary meetings take place involving all agencies to review the young person's care. These reviews incorporate the evaluation of risk and planning for same. The HSE has assured me that the welfare and protection of all young people are paramount when considering appropriate placement for such young people. Finally, guidelines for the housing of convicted sex offenders are a matter for my colleague the Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence.
Inter-Country Adoptions
Kevin Humphreys
Question:171 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the action she is planning to take in conjunction with the Adoption Authority of Ireland once the report on its recent visit to Ethiopia is published; if she will publish a road map of actions to bring some certainty on the issue of introducing a bilateral adoption treaty with Ethiopia; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24400/12]
Kevin Humphreys
Question:172 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs when the report by the Adoption Authority of Ireland on its visit to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to examine the feasibility of a bilateral adoption treaty will be published; if she will ensure this issue is expedited as the trip occurred more than a month ago and there is significant uncertainty for families who are unable to adopt under the existing transitional arrangements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24401/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 171 and 172 together.
The Adoption Act, 2010, which provides the legislative framework for adoption in Ireland, is designed to provide a framework to ensure that all adoptions are effected in the best interests of the child and to the highest possible standard. The phrase ‘in the best interests of the child' is absolutely key in this regard. It must not be forgotten that inter-country adoption is a service for those children who cannot be raised by their birth parents or cared for in their own country. The interests of the child must always be paramount throughout the adoption process. This is best achieved through the full implementation of the highest national and international standards governing adoption practice. This is the primary concern for the Adoption Authority of Ireland in conducting its business as it relates to inter-country adoption.
Adoptions from Ethiopia, effected under the transitional arrangements provided for in the Adoption Act 2010, are ongoing and are currently being examined, and recognised, by the Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI). These transitional arrangements may lead to adoptions from Ethiopia taking place up to the end of October 2012. The Adoption Act 2010 also contains provision for a one year extension to declarations of eligibility and suitability to adopt which may lead to a one year extension to this date. Ethiopia is not a signatory of the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of inter-country Adoption. In these circumstances, adoptions from Ethiopia which are not covered by the transitional arrangements referred to above would require a bilateral agreement between Ireland and Ethiopia. The negotiation of bilateral agreements on inter-country adoption with states who have not ratified the Hague Convention is governed by Section 73 of the Adoption Act 2010 which states that "the Authority, with the prior consent of the Minister, may enter into discussions with any non-contracting state concerning the possibility of the Government entering into a bilateral agreement with that State.” Any bilateral arrangements which might be entered into would be required by law to meet the minimum standards set out in the Hague Convention.
A delegation from the Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI) visited Ethiopia in April and held exploratory meetings with the Ethiopian authorities regarding the system of adoption which operates in that country. The delegation, in the course of its visit, held preliminary discussions with the Ethiopian authorities around the potential for a bilateral on inter-country adoption. The AAI is currently preparing a report for me on its assessment of the situation which will inform the next steps to be taken.
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:173 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the steps she has taken since the signing of the Adoption Act of 2010 to sign a bilateral agreement with Russia; if she will make this a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24481/12]
The Adoption Act, 2010, which provides the legislative framework for adoption in Ireland, is designed to provide a framework to ensure that all adoptions are effected in the best interests of the child and to the highest possible standard. The phrase ‘in the best interests of the child' is absolutely key in this regard. It must not be forgotten that inter-country adoption is a service for those children who cannot be raised by their birth parents or cared for in their own country. The interests of the child must always be paramount throughout the adoption process. This is best achieved through the full implementation of the highest national and international standards governing adoption practice. This is the primary concern for the Adoption Authority of Ireland in conducting its business as it relates to inter-country adoption.
Adoptions from Russia, effected under the transitional arrangements provided for in the Adoption Act 2010, are ongoing and are currently being examined, and recognised, by the Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI). These transitional arrangements may lead to adoptions from Russia taking place up to the end of October 2012. The Adoption Act 2010 also contains provision for a one year extension to declarations of eligibility and suitability to adopt which may lead to a one year extension to this date. Russia is not a signatory of the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of inter-country Adoption. In these circumstances, adoptions from Russia which are not covered by the transitional arrangements referred to above would require a bilateral agreement between Ireland and Russia. The negotiation of bilateral agreements on inter-country adoption with states who have not ratified the Hague Convention is governed by Section 73 of the Adoption Act 2010 which states that "the Authority, with the prior consent of the Minister, may enter into discussions with any non-contracting state concerning the possibility of the Government entering into a bilateral agreement with that State.” Any bilateral arrangements which might be entered into would be required by law to meet the minimum standards set out in the Hague Convention.
A delegation comprised of representatives of the Adoption Authority and officials from my Department held exploratory meetings with the Russian authorities in December of last year. The delegation visited Russia in relation to preliminary discussions around the potential for a bilateral on inter-country adoption. This was a follow up to previous discussions which took place earlier in the year, on the initiative of the Russian authorities. I have received an initial assessment from the Adoption Authority which will inform the next steps to be taken in relation to this matter. My Department is in discussions with the Adoption Authority on this assessment and other issues which will influence any policy decisions to be taken in this regard. I am aware of the need to bring clarity to the situation in respect of Russia and I hope to be in a position to do so as soon as possible.
Question No. 174 answered with Question No. 24.
Mental Health Services
Billy Kelleher
Question:175 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will provide information regarding community mental health teams throughout the country including the catchment areas covered by each team; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24381/12]
As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Billy Kelleher
Question:176 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the implementation of the recommendations on borderline personality disorder as outlined in Vision for Change; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24382/12]
Billy Kelleher
Question:177 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will legitimise borderline personality disorder by inserting the words “personality disorder” into the Mental Health Act 2001; if so, how soon will we see this introduction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24383/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 176 and 177 together.
This Government is committed to implementing A Vision for Change and reforming our model of healthcare delivery so that more and better quality care is delivered in the community.
The HSE provides a wide range of community and hospital based mental health services in Ireland. The General Adult Community Mental Health Teams deliver best practice, community based care and provide services for people with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). In 2011, the National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP) funded a number of Community Mental Health Teams to provide evidence based Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) which has increasingly been shown to be effective for people with BPD.
A special allocation of €35m for mental health was announced in Budget 2012 in line with the Programme for Government commitments. Funding from this special allocation will be used primarily to strengthen Community Mental Health Teams in both Adult and Children's mental health services which will further develop services for those with BPD. It is intended that the additional resources will be rolled out in conjunction with a scheme of appropriate clinical care programmes based on an early intervention and recovery approach. These programmes which are currently in development will include one specifically for complex mental health conditions such as eating disorders and BPD.
Last year, I appointed a Steering Group of senior officials from my Department, the HSE and the Mental Health Commission to commence the process of reviewing the Mental Health Act 2001. The Review included a public consultation process, a call for submissions and several meetings with key sectorial stakeholder organisations. The Group has now completed its Interim Report which is under consideration. The second and more substantive phase of this review is expected to commence in the near future.
Billy Kelleher
Question:178 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health with regard to sufferers of borderline personality disorder who do not reside in a catchment area, the way patients can access services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24384/12]
As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Billy Kelleher
Question:179 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if funding is available for the treatment of borderline personality disorder; if she will provide a detailed regional breakdown of same; her plans to increase funding; if so if she will she outline same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24385/12]
As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Hospital Staff
Éamon Ó Cuív
Question:180 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Health when nursing and dietetic posts for the treatment of diabetes in Galway University Hospital will be filled as promised in January this year; the reason for the delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24390/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Medicinal Products
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:181 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if the drug Pradaxa has been approved for use by the Health Service Executive for the treatment of patients; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this drug is used in the six counties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24394/12]
Pradaxa is available under the GMS Scheme, the Drug Payment Scheme and other community drugs schemes for the prevention of blood clots in adult patients who have undergone elective hip replacement surgery or elective knee replacement surgery.
The HSE is assessing the availability of resources to provide for the long term treatment with Pradaxa for the prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. This is a complicated process with long term implications. The HSE wrote to all GMS doctors and community pharmacy contractors in November 2011 to clarify the position in relation to Pradaxa. The HSE will continue to update healthcare professionals in relation to the matter.
The HSE does not intend to disturb established therapeutic regimens for patients whose treatment with Pradaxa for the prevention of stroke was initiated prior to the clarification.
Medical Cards
Patrick Deering
Question:182 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Health the position regarding an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if he will expedite the matter. [24395/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Ciaran Lynch
Question:183 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health if he will review the decision not to grant full general practitioner cards to a family (details supplied) in County Cork in view of the circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24396/12]
Determination of eligibility for a medical card is the responsibility of the Health Service Executive and is based on a national assessment process for medical cards, details of which are available on the HSE's website (www.hse.ie). If a person has been refused a medical card they can lodge an appeal within 21 days. Details of the appeals process are forward to the applicant with their refusal letter. As this refusal of a medical card renewal is a service matter I have referred it to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Ciaran Lynch
Question:184 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health when a decision will be made regarding a medical card application by a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24402/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Kevin Humphreys
Question:185 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Health if he will allow those who have paid for medication while waiting for medical card approval to be allowed to claim a refund for the cost of the medication, due to the delay in issuing medical cards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24418/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Drugs Payment Scheme
Jack Wall
Question:186 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health the reason the drug payment schemes for recipients in the Kildare area is being moved from Naas to Crumlin; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this is a major cause of concern for many of the persons involved; if he will review the change; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24419/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
Health Services
Dara Calleary
Question:187 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Health if he will review the decision to withdraw transport escorts for service users (details supplied). [24445/12]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Hospital Services
Terence Flanagan
Question:188 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Health if discussions have taken place regarding the proposal to relocate Beaumont Hospital to a site in Belcamp; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24452/12]
I take it that the Deputy is referring to recent media reports concerning the development of a medical hub including Beaumont Hospital and the national paediatric hospital, at a site in Belcamp, County Dublin. As the Deputy will be aware, I established an independent Review 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 Review Group is considering all issues relevant to the location of the new paediatric hospital and I do not wish to make any further comment on the matter until the Group's work is complete.
Suicide Prevention
Terence Flanagan
Question:189 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Health the steps he is taking to tackle the increase in youth suicides; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24454/12]
Dealing with the current high levels of suicide and deliberate self harm is a priority for this Government. Reach Out our National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention recognises the youth sector as a high risk group and sets out a number of specific actions. Consequently, the HSE’s National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP) has developed a range of initiatives aimed specifically at supporting young people who are suicidal and also supporting their peers in recognising and responding appropriately to signs of emotional distress and suicidal thoughts.
A wide range of awareness and training programmes are available in the area of mental health promotion and suicide prevention. These include safeTALK which trains participants to become more alert to the possibility of suicide in their community and other training programmes such as Reaching Out, ASIST, Taking Control, MindOut and STOP. A number of media awareness campaigns have been run in recent years including the “Let someone know” campaign which focused specifically on young people and delivered the message that it is important to reach out and seek the support of others. Other awareness programmes include the “The Please Talk” initiative, running in third level colleges since 2007, which encourages young people experiencing problems to talk to others and identifies the supports available to those in need.
Jigsaw, an innovative community-based support service for young people, has been developed by Headstrong and is designed to promote systems of care that are accessible, youth-friendly, integrated, and engaging for young people. Through additional Innovation Funding, this service is now available or in development in 11 sites around the country. A special allocation of €35m for mental health was announced in Budget 2012 in line with the Programme for Government commitments. Funding from this special allocation will be used primarily to further strengthen Community Mental Health Teams in both Adult and Children’s mental health services. Some of the funding will also be used to advance activities in the area of suicide prevention and to initiate the provision of psychological and counselling services in primary care, specifically for people with mental health problems.
Hospital Waiting Lists
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:190 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the number of consultant oncologist attached to Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9; the number of persons on the waiting list to see the consultant; the average waiting time; the steps being taken to tackle same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24472/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Health Service Staff
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:191 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the number of Health Service Executive paramedics, emergency medical technicians, advanced paramedics that retired in 2010, 2011 and to date in 2012; the number that were replaced in each of these years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24473/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
Hospitals Building Programme
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:192 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health when a decision will be made on the site of the proposed new National Children’s Hospital; if detailed proposals have been made for the former Belcamp College lands in Dublin 17; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24474/12]
I established an independent Review 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 Review Group will, as part of its review, consider all issues relevant to the location of the new children's hospital. I will await the completion of the Group's work and do not wish to make any further comment on the matter at this time.
Primary Care Strategy
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:193 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health if has received any proposal from the Health Service Executive or local general practitioners for a primary care health centre in the north fringe Clongriffin-The Coast, Dublin 13; the steps he will take to ensure that a primary care health centre is planned for and included in the new local area plan now being completed by Dublin City Council for the north fringe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24475/12]
The development of primary care is central to this Government's objective to deliver a high quality, integrated and cost effective health system. The Programme for Government states that primary care will be an immediate priority area. The development of primary care centres, through a combination of public and private investment, will facilitate the delivery of multi-disciplinary primary care and represents a tangible re-focussing of the health service to deliver care in the most appropriate and lowest cost setting. The delivery of the primary care centre infrastructure must be informed by needs analysis, with priority given to areas of urban and rural deprivation. The HSE is currently engaged in prioritisation of primary care centres.
A draft capital plan for the period 2012-2016 has been submitted to my Department. My Department is reviewing the proposals and following up with the HSE where further details may be required. 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.
General Practitioner Services
Derek Nolan
Question:194 Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Health the reason a centre (details supplied) has cancelled its general practitionrer services; the action being taken to rectify the system problems being experienced in the centre; the length of time that they will be without GP services; the contingency arrangements that have been put in place in the meantime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24483/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Health Services
Maureen O'Sullivan
Question:195 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health in view of the gravity of the situation in relation to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8 if he will intervene in this instance in order to determine whose remit the person now falls under; and where possible, determine the avenues available to find a solution to the persons case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24486/12]
As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Public Health Awareness
Maureen O'Sullivan
Question:196 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if he will consider including Macular Degeneration in national health campaigns and public awareness campaigns directed both at the public and general practitioners in view of the fact that it is currently on the increase in Ireland and early detection is key to successful treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24487/12]
The clinical program for ophthalmology is looking at the best delivery of care for macular degeneration. The Programme has identified five main work streams, one of which is Macular Degeneration (AMD). A Working Group comprising statutory and voluntary stakeholders has been set up to look at best care pathways for ongoing delivery of service.
The Irish College of Ophthalmologists, the Association of Optometrists and patient advocacy groups such as the National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI) and Fighting Blindness participate in an annual public awareness campaign on AMD along with other stakeholders. During the AMD awareness week a mobile unit travels around the country providing free testing for macular degeneration and this along with the media exposure can lead to early detection.
Primary Care Services
Regina Doherty
Question:197 Deputy Regina Doherty asked the Minister for Health the reason it is taking up to nine weeks to process optical benefits when the average time in Kildare is one to two weeks and the action being taken to tackle this delay. [24488/12]
Optical claims are processed by the Primary Care Reimbursement Service (PCRS) of the HSE. There are currently no delays in the processing of such claims. Claims must be approved by Local Health Offices before being submitted to PCRS for processing. If the Deputy would like to provide more information on the delay to which she refers I will make further enquiries with the HSE.
Mental Health Services
Eoghan Murphy
Question:198 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Health the support facilities that exist to assist a family with a child who suffers from pathological demand avoidance. [24490/12]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Question No. 199 answered with Question No. 24.
Medical Cards
Patrick Deering
Question:200 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) in County Carlow will receive a decision on a medical card review; and if he will expedite the matter. [24506/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Health Service Staff
Sean Fleming
Question:201 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Health the position regarding a transfer in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24510/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
Medicinal Products
Sean Fleming
Question:202 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Health his views on using more generic medicines as a way of reducing the overall cost of medicines to the taxpayer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24511/12]
The Government recognises the potential savings, for the taxpayer, which could be made from the use of generic drugs instead of proprietary drugs.
The Programme for Government states that "reference pricing and greater use of generics will be introduced to reduce the State's large drug bill and the cost to individuals of their medicines." The draft Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Bill 2012 is on the list of Bills to be published in this session of Dail Eireann. This legislation will introduce a system of reference pricing and generic substitution for drugs prescribed under the GMS and community drug schemes. These reforms will promote price competition among suppliers and ensure that lower prices are paid for these medicines resulting in savings for taxpayers and patients.
Health Insurance
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:203 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if his Department or the Implementation Group on Universal Health Insurance have identified the phased steps, including timeframes, towards the introduction of universal health insurance by 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24516/12]
The Government is committed to fundamental reform of the healthcare system that will deliver a single tier health system, supported by universal health insurance, where access is based on need, not income. Every citizen will have a choice of insurer and will have equal access to a comprehensive range of curative services.
There are a number of key stepping stones that will play a critical role in paving the way for the introduction of universal health insurance. Significant work has already been undertaken to progress these. They include:
the strengthening of the primary care sector to deliver universal primary care with the removal of cost as a barrier. The Government has established a Universal Primary Care Project Team to oversee the introduction of universal primary care. In addition, the Government has given its approval to the preparation of Heads of a Bill to progress the phased introduction of free GP care in line with the commitment in the Programme for Government. It is envisaged that the first phase in the Programme will provide for the extension of access to GP services without fees to persons with illnesses or disabilities to be prescribed by regulations under the new legislation.
reform of the acute hospital sector, including the establishment of the Special Delivery Unit (SDU) which has been tasked with unblocking access to acute services by improving the flow of patients through the system. An important part of the Programme for Government is the establishment of independent not-for-profit trusts. As a first step, non-statutory hospital groups will be set up which will have a single clinical governance model, one budget and one employment ceiling. The hospital groups will be established on the clear understanding that the groupings and their governance arrangements will be reviewed prior to 2015 to ensure an appropriate environment for the introduction of UHI.
the introduction of the more transparent and efficient "Money Follows the Patient" funding mechanism for acute hospitals. A number of initiatives are already underway including a patient level costing project and a pilot initiative in relation to prospective funding of certain elective orthopaedic procedures, at selected sites.
In February, I established an Implementation Group on Universal Health Insurance. The Group will assist in developing detailed implementation plans for universal health insurance and driving implementation of various elements of the health reform programme. A project team comprised of senior Department of Health officials has also been established to support the work of the Implementation Group.
The initial work of the Group will focus on assisting in developing work plans and overseeing reform work in relation to each of the following key work streams:
Hospital Financing (e.g. Money-follows-the-patient, Hospital Care Purchase Agency).
Hospital Structures (e.g. Hospital Trusts).
Regulation of the Hospital Sector (e.g. Patient Safety Authority, Licensing).
Private Health Insurance Market (e.g. Risk Equalisation, Minimum Benefits).
Overarching UHI Design (e.g. detailed design of the UHI system, including the legislative framework and the package of services to be covered).
The reform programme is a complex and major undertaking that requires careful sequencing over a number of years. The Implementation Group will continue in existence throughout the health reform process and will oversee different elements of the reforms as they are being put in place. It is also intended that it will consult widely as part of the reform implementation process.
Health Service Reform
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:204 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health in view of the complex and long-term programme of health reform, the steps he will take to ensure that cost does not continue to act as a barrier to care, particularly for that significant proportion of the population covered by neither medical or general practitioner visit card nor private insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24517/12]
The Government is committed to fundamental reform of the health care system with the objective of delivering a single tier health system, supported by universal health insurance, where access is based on need, not income. Every citizen will have a choice of insurer and will have equal access to a comprehensive range of curative services. A new Insurance Fund will subsidise or pay insurance premiums for those who qualify for a subsidy.
There are a number of key stepping stones that will play a critical role in paving the way for the introduction of universal health insurance and significant work has already been undertaken to progress these. They include (i) the strengthening of the primary care sector with removal of cost as a barrier to access and (ii) reform of the acute hospital sector, including the work of the Special Delivery Unit in relation to unblocking access to acute services, the establishment of hospital groups and the introduction of the more transparent and efficient "money follows the patient" funding mechanism for acute hospitals. Once the key building blocks have been put in place, the health system will be ready for universal health insurance.
The reform programme is a complex and major undertaking that requires careful planning and sequencing. Detailed consideration must be given to the optimal structures for delivery of different services and to the critical inter-relationships between services as well as best practice in health care reform. Ongoing work on proposed new governance and administrative arrangements for the HSE represents an important first step in the process of delivering the reform agenda contained in the Programme for Government. The next steps, which will include measures to facilitate clearer and better integrated delivery and funding arrangements, are under consideration at present.
Mental Health Services
Maureen O'Sullivan
Question:205 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if in advance of the Independent Monitoring Group on A Vision for Change report due next month, he will address what action has been taken on foot of last year’s report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24518/12]
In its Annual Report for 2010, the Independent Monitoring Group acknowledged that progress had been made in the implementation of A Vision for Change in 2010 particularly in relation to the development of new adult and child and adolescent mental health care in Dublin, Cork and Galway and the closure of outdated services. However, the Monitoring Group was disappointed that there had been little progress in the implementation of the specialist mental health services and, in particular, the creation of fully staffed community mental health teams to develop the model of service outlined in A Vision for Change.
Since taking office, this Government has prioritised the reform of our mental health services and is committed in particular to the delivery of more and better quality care in the community. It must be recognised that significant progress has been achieved in the mental health services including shorter episodes of in-patient care, fewer involuntary admissions and the involvement of service users in all aspects of mental health policy, service planning and delivery. There are now 61 Child and Adolescent and 124 Adult Community Mental Health Teams in operation.
Developments on the Capital Programme are continuing with new Acute Units, Community Mental Health Centres, Residential Facilities, Day Hospitals and Day Centres being developed around the country. This has facilitated the closure of most of our old institutional type psychiatric hospitals. In relation to Child and Adolescent mental health services, two 20-bed in-patient units have been developed in Cork and Galway. Work is continuing on the development of the second phase of the Child and Adolescent Unit at St. Vincent's Hospital, Fairview and an 8 bedded interim facility at St. Loman's, Palmerstown. The Linn Dara Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day Facility at Cherry Orchard, Dublin has also been completed and will open shortly.
A special allocation of €35m for mental health was announced in Budget 2012 in line with the Programme for Government commitments. Funding from this special allocation will be used primarily to further strengthen Community Mental Health Teams in both Adult and Children's mental health services which will ensure, at a minimum, that at least one of each mental health professional discipline is represented on every team.
It is intended that the additional resources will be rolled out in conjunction with a scheme of appropriate clinical care programmes. Some of the funding will also be used to advance activities in the area of suicide prevention and to initiate the provision of psychological and counselling services in primary care, specifically for people with mental health problems. Over 400 additional staff will be recruited to support these initiatives.
Maureen O'Sullivan
Question:206 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health when we may expect the establishment of a directorate for mental health and specifically will this post be given budgetary authority and responsibility for the implementation of A Vision for Change; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24519/12]
My colleague Minister Reilly intends to bring legislative proposals to Government to abolish the HSE Board structure under the Health Act 2004 and to provide for replacement governance structures and enhanced accountability arrangements. In tandem with the proposed new legal structures, new administrative structures will be put in place within the HSE which will reflect the need for a greater operational management focus on the delivery of key services and greater transparency about funding, service delivery and accountability. Consideration is currently being given to how best to give effect to the new administrative structures, including the selection and appointment of new directors at national level, including mental health.
Hospital Services
Finian McGrath
Question:207 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health if there is any change in the plan for the 34 ensuite rooms for cystic fibrosis patients at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin. [24538/12]
St Vincent's University Hospital is the designated National Adult Referral Centre for patients with Cystic Fibrosis. The new development at St. Vincent's Hospital is designed to provide a state of the art clinical building which will include up to date isolation facilities with accommodation for people with cystic fibrosis and others requiring such facilities.
This new building will provide 100 new inpatient beds in total, of which 20 will be a dedicated inpatient facility with en suite rooms for patients with CF. This reflects best practice in terms of infection control. It will also provide a dedicated CF Day Unit, containing offices, treatment rooms, together with 10 single day treatment rooms, each with en-suite sanitary facilities for treating patients with cystic fibrosis. If required the hospital will provide another four respiratory inpatient beds in suitable single en-suite rooms in designated respiratory areas.
The proposed construction completion date for the new unit is June 2012 and the hospital management in conjunction with relevant stakeholders is currently preparing plans for the transfer of patients to the new accommodation to take place as soon as possible.
Long-Term Illness Scheme
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:208 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the services covered under the to-be-extended general practitioner care for those on the long term illness scheme; the extent to which diagnostic and medication costs will be covered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24548/12]
The Programme for Government commits to reforming the current public health system by introducing Universal Health Insurance with equal access to care for all. As part of this, the Government is committed to introducing Universal GP Care within its first term of office.
Primary legislation is required to give effect to this commitment. The Department of Health is currently drafting legislation to provide for the phased introduction of a universal GP service without fees in line with the commitment set out in the Programme for Government. Initially it is intended to extend GP cover without fees to persons with certain long-term illness. It is my intention to have the Bill published and enacted before the summer recess.
Nursing Home Services
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:209 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure that a nursing home (details supplied) receives the required upgrading of facilities to meet the maximum capacity of 120 patients having particular regard to the obvious economic advantages particularly in the present climate of availing of such existing and available buildings and structures in preference to more expensive new buildings and in view of the high quality of services available at the home; if his attention has been drawn to the expensive scale and quality of the services available at the nursing home, the pivotal role it plays in the local community and the necessity to ensure the availability of such high quality accommodation for patients who might otherwise have to be accommodated at various general hospitals; his views that the restoration and utilisation of maximum bed capacity of 120 at this location represents competitive value for money and high quality of service while meeting the needs of his Department and those of the local community; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24591/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Hospital Staff
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:210 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied regarding the availability of an adequate supply of junior hospital doctors to meet the requirements at all levels within the health services on an annual basis over the next four years with particular reference to the need to avail of the maximum numbers of medical graduates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24592/12]
The purpose of the process is to generate sufficient numbers of qualified applicants for the July 2012 intake and for future intakes of NCHDs. This is intended to provide a continual stream of prospective candidates to meet the demand in particularly challenging specialties such as Emergency Medicine and Psychiatry. The campaign includes external and internal press advertising, as well as advertising in medical journal websites worldwide.
I will be receiving regular updates from the HSE on this issue over the coming weeks. However, at present the HSE does not anticipate significant difficulties in relation to the filling of posts for the July 2012 rotation.
School Health Examinations
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:211 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the full extent of the school medical examinations currently available to children with particular reference to the early school years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24593/12]
The policy on school health examinations forms part of the Best Health for Children guidelines, produced in 1999 and revised in 2006. The Best Health for Children guidelines set out a clear timetable for child health checks and details what is required at each stage. Routine medical examinations for school age children are not provided as they have not been found to be an effective use of scarce resources. The hearing and vision of children is tested, usually in junior or senior infants. The service is public health nurse led. In many schools a questionnaire is given to families about a child's health, but the practice and the content of the questionnaire vary from area to area.
The HSE has recently put in place new governance structures in relation to child health screening and surveillance. It also established a National Child Health Surveillance and Screening Office (CHS) to oversee all aspects of child health. Child health surveillance is part of a more general programme of child health promotion that relates to secondary prevention by early detection.
I welcome those very positive developments. However, I am aware of disparities in the provision of child health examinations in different parts of the country, particularly in relation to developmental screening for infants between seven and nine months old. While I recognise staff and resource difficulties within the HSE, it is important that this issue is resolved. I have raised my concerns with the HSE and it has committed to establishing a process to set priorities within the overall child health programme and examine the issue of resource/staff distribution within the constraints of current economic and budgetary realities.
Health Services
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:212 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the number of children screened for orthodontic treatment in each of the past four years to date in 2012; the number of actual referrals in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24594/12]
The information sought is currently being collated by the Health Service Executive and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it is available.
Hospital Accommodation
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:213 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the number of general hospital beds available at all public general hospitals throughout the country; the extent to which this has fluctuated in each of the past four years to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24595/12]
I have set out the information requested by the Deputy for the years 2007-2010 (most recent available) in the table. The information was supplied by the Business Intelligence Unit (BIU) of the Health Service Executive. 2011 data is currently being validated and will not be available until later this year.
|
In-Patient Beds |
Day Beds/Places |
|||||||
|
Public |
Private |
Non designated |
Total |
Public |
Private |
Non designated |
Total |
|
|
Totals 2007 |
9,034 |
2,249 |
840 |
12,123 |
1,245 |
222 |
78 |
1,545 |
|
Totals 2008 |
8,696 |
2,251 |
899 |
11,678 |
1,299 |
217 |
221 |
1,737 |
|
Totals 2009 |
8,427 |
2,203 |
908 |
11,538 |
1,319 |
225 |
228 |
1,772 |
|
Totals 2010 |
8,084 |
2,190 |
885 |
11,159 |
1,375 |
223 |
259 |
1,857 |
Health Service Staff
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:214 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if in the aftermath of reductions in staffing levels arising from early or natural retirement and or voluntary redundancy, he is satisfied that current or expected staffing levels can be supplemented through redeployment to ensure the highest quality and standards of patient care; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24596/12]
The cumulative impact of staff reductions from this year and previous years presents a significant challenge for the health system in delivering services. The priority is to reform how health services are delivered in order to ensure a more productive and cost effective health system. Health service employment numbers must be reduced to approximately 102,000 by the end of this year, in line with the Government's commitment to reduce public expenditure. Therefore, replacement will only occur in critical areas.
The HSE is seeking to mitigate the impact of the retirements on frontline services by—
using the provisions of the Public Service Agreement to bring about greater flexibilities in work practices and rosters, redeployment and other changes to achieve more efficient delivery of services;
delivering greater productivity through the National Clinical Programmes to reduce the average length of stay, improve day of admission surgery rates, increase the number of patients treated as day cases, etc.; and
some limited and targeted recruitment in priority areas to help limit the impact of retirements on frontline services.
There has already been considerable redeployment in the health sector under the Public Service Agreement. This includes the flexibility of staff in continuing to deliver services during and after ‘grace-period' retirements. The Health Sector Action Plan for 2012 under the Public Service Agreement includes provision for further use of redeployment in the health sector.
Primary Care Services
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:215 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the extent to which the relevant authorities within his Department or within the Health Service Executive have examined the need for the upgrading of health centres throughout the country in keeping with population demands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24597/12]
I understand the HSE has written directly to the Deputy and advised that a National Needs Assessment was carried out, and subsequently reviewed in 2011, on the provision of Primary Care services, the location of Primary Care Teams and the requirement for Primary Care Centres (PCCs). PCCs are now being procured by lease agreement and by traditional means, i.e. construction.
Where PCCs are due to be delivered shortly and existing Health Centres will no longer be required, the existing Centres will be maintained in the interim.
Departmental Properties
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:216 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the number and location of new buildings acquired by the Health Service Executive or his Department in the past 12 months; the purpose for which such buildings are likely to be used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24598/12]
My Department has not acquired any buildings in the last twelve months.
As management of the health property portfolio is a service issue, your question has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct response
Care of the Elderly
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:217 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the total number and location of beds available for older persons with a high dependency in County Kildare; the extent to which the full bed complement is likely to be maintained and increased in the short and medium term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24599/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Hospital Accommodation
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:218 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the number of hospital beds at all levels in the health services throughout County Kildare in each of the past three years to date; the extent to which any bed losses have taken place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24600/12]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
State Airports
Michelle Mulherin
Question:219 Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the value of Shannon Development Estates which will flow annually into Shannon Airport; the way that this funding will be used; if it will be used to market the airport arising out of the recent announcement of plans for an independent airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24357/12]
Michelle Mulherin
Question:220 Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for Shannon Airport independent of the Dublin Airport Authority; the fate of employees at Shannon and in particular their pension entitlements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24359/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 219 and 220 together.
As I have previously informed the Deputy, the Government has decided in principle to separate Shannon Airport from the Dublin Airport Authority and to merge it with a restructured Shannon Development to form a new entity in public ownership. The Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and I will now establish a Steering Group that will bring forward proposals for the implementation of the decision.
Issues concerning the future funding of Shannon Airport and the position of airport employees, including their pensions, are matters to be considered by the Steering Group in the first instance.
Employment Support Services
Michael McCarthy
Question:221 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to reinstate the programme of skills courses with Fáilte Ireland for persons who want to enter the hotel, catering and tourism industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24361/12]
Fáilte Ireland provides and funds a suite of training supports for businesses and individuals through supporting education programmes in the Institutes of Technology and direct supports to employees, managers and businesses in the tourism industry. In total an estimated 18,800 trainees, students, employees and employers will receive training and business support from Fáilte Ireland in 2012.
In particular, it has put in place an agreed strategy in relation to the provision of Hospitality and Tourism Programmes in the Institutes of Technology. This agreement ensures that a sustainable supply of "industry-ready" people are available to Irish Tourism businesses over the medium term. A critical aspect of that collaboration with the education sector is that Fáilte Ireland has sought and achieved the provision of improved training and career prospects for new entrants. New apprenticeship style models have been developed and put in place across the country together with an accelerated training programme for chefs and restaurant service.
Fáilte Ireland considers that this range of courses addresses adequately the training needs of the industry. It is worth noting that Fáilte Ireland has championed the ‘earn and learn' approach as the most effective way forward whereby individuals are provided with access to accredited training on campus on a part-time basis while also learning on the job.
Bus Services
Dessie Ellis
Question:222 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide an update on the implementation of a new Dublin Bus 83a route; and if he will encourage the National Transport Authority to give approval to this route. [24365/12]
The issue raised is an operational matter for Dublin Bus in conjunction with the National Transport Authority. I have referred the Deputy's question to Dublin Bus for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Vehicle Registration
Niall Collins
Question:223 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when a vehicle change of ownership will be processed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick and a new ownership vehicle registration certificate issued. [24435/12]
The person in question was the seller of the vehicle and an online change of ownership notice was received in my Department on 4 April 2012 and a Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC) issued to the new owner on 11 April at the address supplied on the change of ownership documentation. The VRC was returned undelivered by an Post indicating that the owner was not known at the address provided.
I understand that the owner now resides at that address and the Registration Certificate has been re-issued.
Road Safety
Terence Flanagan
Question:224 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of road accidents reported in Dublin city and county in 2010, 2011 and so far in 2012; if he will give a breakdown by Garda district; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24456/12]
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006), this is a matter for the Road Safety Authority.
Detailed analysis of the statistics, including on a county basis, are carried out by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and published in their annual "Road Collision Facts". Noting this, I have referred the Deputy's question to the Road Safety Authority for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
Bus Services
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:225 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of new bus routes created by Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann for the years 2009, 2010, 2011 and to date in 2012; the location of each new route; if he has made an evaluation of operation of the Network Direct redesign of the Dublin Bus network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24468/12]
The operation and provision of bus services is a matter for Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann in conjunction with the National Transport Authority. The details of routes operated by Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann are a matter for the companies and I have referred the Deputy's question to both for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive replies within ten working days.
The Deloitte Cost and Efficiency Review of Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann, published in January 2009, identified some scope for greater efficiencies in Dublin Bus. Following the publication of that Report, Dublin Bus undertook an extensive review of their bus network and subsequently announced plans for the re-organisation of routes and timetables. The objective of the redesign was to provide current and future bus customers with a service that will be modern, accessible, integrated, easy to understand, punctual and frequent.
I understand that Dublin Bus has held over 30 public meetings and 250 meetings with key stakeholders as part of its consultation programme. All changes are advertised in advance through national and local media, and through social media, as well as house leaflet drops to areas serviced by the bus routes where changes occur. All proposed changes to services require the approval of the NTA who have a mandate to oversee the provision of a well functioning, attractive, integrated and safe public transport system for all users.
I am supportive of the efforts of Dublin Bus to achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness. Given the losses recorded by Dublin Bus in recent years and having regard to unavoidable constraints on the availability of Exchequer funds for PSO subvention, it is important that Dublin Bus deliver greater efficiency and effectiveness in order to safeguard the overall sustainability of public transport services in the future.
National Car Test
Peter Mathews
Question:226 Deputy Peter Mathews asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans regarding the National Car Test for cars of ten years and over (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24497/12]
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006), the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has responsibility for the delivery of the National Car Test.
In 2008, the RSA reviewed the car testing specification and, following this review, proposed that a number of new test items be introduced to the National Car Test (NCT). A public consultation process was conducted by the RSA on the proposals in 2009 and, having considered the views received, the RSA recommended that the proposals, including annual testing of cars over ten years old, be introduced to the NCT.
With effect from 1 June 2011 cars older than 10 years must undergo annual roadworthiness testing. Road traffic collision statistics for 2009 show that 41.5% of fatal collisions and 46% of serious injuries arose from collisions that involved vehicles that were 10 years old or more. As at the end of 2011, 28% of all taxed private motor vehicles were 10 years old of older.
The NCT fee increased from €50 to €55 in January 2012. The fee, in the main, represents the per test payment made by the RSA to Applus, who carry out the testing service. I have previously indicated that there will be no further increase in NCT fees for the next three years.
I believe the annual testing of vehicles of ten years and older is a valuable safety measure. The NCT Regulations do not provide for any exemptions from roadworthiness testing and I have no proposals, at present, to introduce exemptions.
Taxi Regulations
Finian McGrath
Question:227 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will maximise the support given to taxi drivers in the new reforms rather than making matters more difficult. [24537/12]
The focus of the Taxi Regulation Review is to achieve a balanced set of reforms that allow consumers to have confidence in the taxi system while also ensuring that legitimate and competent operators and drivers can be rewarded fairly by operating under a regulatory framework that is adequately enforced.
The recommendations contained in the Taxi Regulation Review Report reflect the agreement of the Review Group following an extensive consultation process. In my view, the thrust of the reforms outlined in the Report will facilitate better sevices for consumers and will improve the operating environment for taxi drivers generally.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the regulation of the taxi industry under the Taxi Regulation Act, 2003 and is also the lead agency with responsibility for implementation of the recommendations of the Taxi Regulation Review Report. The NTA is required to report progress on implementation of the Review Recommendations quarterly to the Taxi Advisory Committee which includes representation from the taxi sector.
Olympic Torch Relay
Terence Flanagan
Question:228 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the discussions that have taken place regarding the Olympic torch and its visit here; if the route the torch will take has been agreed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24544/12]
Responsibility for all aspects of the visit of the Olympic Torch Relay to Ireland, including the relay route, rests with the Olympic Council of Ireland.
Road Network
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:229 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will consider the issues raised in correspondence (details supplied) regarding road improvements; the action he will take regarding the concerns raised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24603/12]
As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The planning, design and implementation of individual road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NRA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you don't receive a reply within 10 working days.