Written Answers Nos. 376-397
377. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Social Protection when a final decision will be made in relation to an application for farm assist in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43448/12]
View answerThe Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 23rd July 2012. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought. These papers were received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 26th July 2012 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.
378. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív den Aire Coimirce Sóisialaí cén fáth ar iarradh ar dhuine (sonraí tugtha) a ainm a thabhairt i mBéarla nuair a bhí deimhniú breithe á lorg aige; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [43463/12]
View answerChuir mé ceist ar an Ard-Chláraitheoir agus seo a leanas an míniú a thug sé dom:
Nuair a dhéantar iontráil i gclár na mbreitheanna, déantar iontráil chomhfhreagrach san innéacs a ghabhann leis an gclár, ionas gur féidir an iontráil a aimsiú gan dua. I gcás an duine i dtrácht (sonraí curtha ar fáil) taifeadadh gach sonra i nGaeilge san iontráil i gclár na mbreitheanna, ach ba i mBéarla a taifeadadh na sonraí san innéacs. Ar ndóigh, rith sé leis an gCláraitheoir go bhféadfadh an cás a bheith amhlaidh, agus b'in an chúis gur iarr sí leagan Béarla a shloinne ar an duine i dtrácht. Ag iarraidh dlús a chur leis an bpróiseas a bhí sí. Faoi mar a tharla, thángthas ar an iontráil cheart sa chlár agus eisíodh deimhniú ina tugadh na sonraí i nGaeilge. Leasófar an iontráil chomhfhreagrach san innéacs ionas nach mbeidh aon amhras ann feasta ach go dtiocfar ar an iontráil cheart nuair a bheidh na hainmneacha cearta á gcuardach.
379. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Social Protection when a final decision will be made in relation to an application for farm assist in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43467/12]
View answerThe Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 23rd July 2012. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought. These papers were received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 26th July 2012 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.
381. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Arts; Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he withdrew a protection order for the area around the prehistoric site at Bremore, Gormanstown, County Meath in relation to the area of SPA No. 4158; if this was done in response to an appeal; and if so, who were the unidentified individuals and or groups that requested such a withdrawal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42729/12]
View answerThe national monument in question at Bremore, Gormanstown, County Meath, is protected by a Preservation Order made under the National Monuments Acts. The effect of the preservation order is that it is unlawful for any person to demolish or remove wholly or in part or to disfigure, deface, alter or in any manner injure or interfere with the national monument without my consent. It is also unlawful for any person to excavate, dig, plough or otherwise disturb the ground within, around or in proximity to the national monument without consent. The designation of a Special Protection Area (SPA) for birds does not affect or rescind any Preservation Order made under the National Monuments Acts.
Notification of a proposal to designate the River Nanny Estuary and Shore SPA, further to Ireland’s obligations under the Birds Directive, was publicly advertised by my Department in January 2008. The designation process permits landowners and other interested parties to appeal the inclusion of specific areas within the Special Protection Area. An appeal was lodged by Drogheda Port Company against the inclusion of certain areas within the SPA. By law, such appeals are considered purely on the ornithological merits of the case. A review by my Department of available bird-usage data for the site justified a revision of the boundary to exclude from the SPA part of the land that was subject to the appeal. The Port Company’s request to have another area excluded from the SPA was unsuccessful.
The designation process for this SPA is now finalised and the SPA is protected by Statutory Instrument (S.I. 140/2012). The revised boundary for the site is reflected in the Statutory Instrument. The new boundary may be viewed on my Department’s National Parks and Wildlife Service website at www.npws.ie.
382. Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Arts; Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will outline in tabular form the commitments in the Programme for Government pertaining to his ministerial portfolio; the current status of these commitments in terms of implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42873/12]
View answerThe commitments in the programme for Government which pertain to my Department, along with the current status of these commitments, are outlined in the following table.
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Commitment |
Current Status |
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1. |
We will make strategic policy formulation the primary function of the Department, with line agencies and bodies responsible for policy implementation. |
My Department continues to set and develop policy in respect of the functions that are its direct responsibility and will continue to ensure that the agencies implementing policy are accountable, transparent and fit for purpose. |
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2. |
We will encourage the Arts Council to continue to dedicate resources to touring in order to protect the State’s investment in regional arts infrastructure around the country and to bring cultural tourism opportunities to towns and villages across the country. |
An amount of €740,000 has been allocated by the Arts Council to enable 33 arts organisations and artists tour in venues nationwide in 2012. This is in addition to €750,000 which had previously been committed. A further €125,000 has been allocated to artists and organisations to assist with their advance touring plans for 2013. |
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3. |
We will work with stakeholders in the arts community to develop new proposals aimed at building private support of the arts in Ireland exploring philanthropic, sponsorship or endowment fund opportunities. |
In May 2012, the Philanthropic Leverage Initiative was launched, on a pilot basis, with funding of €230,000. Following a policy direction from me, the Arts Council has also developed a capacity building programme - RAISE - to further encourage philanthropy in arts organisations. I will host an important conference on Philanthropy and the Arts on 18 October next at Smock Alley Theatre. |
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4. |
We will make the Culture Night Initiative a twice yearly event, and introduce a National Lottery Funding Anniversary Day, whereby all facilities which have received funding from the National Lottery will open their doors to the public free of charge |
Culture Night 2012 took place on 21 September 2012 throughout the island of Ireland, showcasing the best of our artistic and cultural heritage and facilities with record visitors in attendance. This was financially supported by my Department in the amount of €200,000. Arising from discussions, most notably at Global Irish Economic Forum, as to the most appropriate way to build on the success and popularity of Culture Night for 2012 and beyond, it is proposed to develop the week of St Patrick's Day as the International Day of Irish Culture, thereby building on solid foundations already in place. |
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5. |
We will also review the opening times of our national cultural institutions. |
The National Cultural Institutions have been asked to carry out a formal review of their opening hours, notwithstanding the fact that this issue is a matter which is kept routinely under review by all of the institutions. |
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6. |
We will develop a cultural plan for future commemorative events such as the Centenary of the Easter Rising in 2016. |
Work has commenced on a programme of commemorative events in the context of the Decade of Centenaries 2012-2022, including the centenary of the Easter Rising in 2016. |
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7. |
We will promote genealogical tourism by updating the National Cultural Institutions Act in relation to the Genealogical Office to put it on a proper statutory footing, modernise its operations and to enable publication of the 1926 census to stimulate genealogy tourism |
My Department continues to liaise with the Office of the Attorney General in relation to the amendment of the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997, in order to address issues in relation to the Genealogical Office and to facilitate the backdating of grants of Coats of Arms. There are potential data protection issues associated with the publication of the 1926 Census and my Department is progressing this matter in consultation with the Central Statistics Office |
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8. |
We will also explore philanthropic opportunities for the development of a national archives and genealogy quarter, providing easy access to archives and tapping into an area of cultural tourism which is of huge interest to the vast Irish Diaspora. |
My Department continues to engage with, and participate in, the Philanthropy Forum. Other initiatives in relation to philanthropy are outlined at point 5 above. |
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9. |
We will encourage greater cooperation between local authorities to provide assistance where possible for local authorities currently lacking a local authority Arts Officer due to recruitment restrictions and to cooperate in developing cultural tourism opportunities. |
Arts Officers are in place in all local authority areas. I have held meetings with Arts Officers’ Groups on a regular basis to encourage improved cooperation and development of arts strategies in each local authority area. |
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10. |
We will seek to capture some public good from NAMA by identifying buildings that have no commercial potential and which might be suitable as local facilities for art and culture |
Engagement is ongoing with NAMA in relation to assets of interest from a cultural perspective. The re-opening of the Lighthouse Cinema in Smithfield is a case in point. The purchase by the Abbey Theatre is also an example of progress in this area. My Department has met with and written to representatives of NAMA in terms of the responsibilities of owners and occupiers of protected structures under Part IV (Architectural Heritage) of the Planning and Development Acts 2000-2010. My Department will continue to liaise with NAMA in this regard and on issues of advice/appropriate reuse, where applicable. |
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11. |
Responsibility for policy-making will revert to the Department, while agencies will be accountable for implementing policy, assessing outcomes and value for money. |
My Department continues to set and develop policy in respect of the functions that are its direct responsibility and will ensure that the agencies implementing policy are accountable, transparent and fit for purpose. |
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12. |
We will support the 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030 and will deliver on the achievable goals and targets proposed. |
Progress has been made in implementing the 20-Year Strategy, in particular with the enactment of the Gaeltacht Act 2012. This Act provides for a new language planning process in the Gaeltacht, for the recognition of Gaeltacht Service Towns and Irish Language Networks outside the existing statutory Gaeltacht and for changes to the governance and functions of Údarás na Gaeltachta. The Government has also re-established the Cabinet Committee on the Irish Language and the Gaeltacht to bring a greater strategic focus to Irish language policy development and implementation. |
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13. |
Gaeltacht regions will benefit from the jobs action plan outlined in this document. Under our proposals, we will deliver new job creation prospects to Gaeltacht regions. We will invest in energy, broadband and water infrastructure, creating the modern infrastructure needed to attract and support new businesses and jobs. We will also strongly support the potential for jobs in tourism and marine activities. We will continue to support the Irish language broadcasting and arts sector. |
Údarás na Gaeltachta continues to work towards achieving its job creation target of 400 jobs in the Gaeltacht in 2012. Following the recent enactment of the Gaeltacht Act 2012, the newly configured board for Údarás na Gaeltachta is expected to be in place in October. |
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14. |
We will review the Official Languages Act to ensure expenditure on the language is best targeted towards the development of the language and that obligations are imposed appropriately in response to demand from citizens |
A public consultation has been completed in respect of the review of the Official Languages Act, with over 1,400 survey responses and 240 submissions received. It is envisaged that the review will be completed and submitted to Government by end year. |
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15. |
We will review current investment and funding programmes that benefit Irish language organisations in order to achieve visible value for money for citizens and tangible outcomes on a transparent basis. |
Foras na Gaeilge is undertaking a review of its 19 core funded Irish language organisations, in accordance with a decision taken by the North South Ministerial Council (NSMC). It is expected that the matter will be considered formally at the next NSMC language sectoral meeting in December 2012. It is envisaged that the review will result in a reconfiguration of the Irish language sector. |
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16. |
We will allow an exemption for domestic turf cutting on 75 natural heritage area sites subject to the introduction of an agreed national code of environmental practices |
The Peatlands Council was established by Government to put in place a mediation body to respond to the commitments in the Programme for Government in relation to turf cutting on SACs and NHAs. Much progress has been made in this regard including in relation to the development of an overall national strategy on peatlands. As part of the ongoing processes, it is intended to carry out a specific review of the 75 NHA raised bogs in advance of the 2014 turf cutting season. This review will commence later this year. |
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17. |
We will establish an independent mediation between all relevant stakeholders with specific objective of facilitating resolution to 55 special area of conservation designated bogs. |
The Government established a Peatlands Council, with representatives of all interested parties to this issue. Earlier this year, the Government also convened a Peatlands Forum, under the Chairmanship of Judge John Quirke. The Peatlands Forum involved all parties impacted by the cessation of turf cutting on raised bog SACs and issued a report of findings and recommendations. An enhanced compensation scheme for turf cutters - the Cessation of Turf Cutting Compensation Scheme - has also been put in place, and to date almost €2.3 million has been issued through this compensation scheme. Following a meeting with the European Commissioner for Environment in April 2012, the Government has agreed with the Commission on the development of a National Plan for the Management of Special Area of Conservation Raised Bogs. Work on the development of this plan is underway. There is ongoing dialogue with stakeholders in relation to relocation, the payment of compensation, and the development of the national plan. |
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18. |
We will establish an independent mediation to resolve outstanding issues associated with turf cutting on blanket bogs. |
The Peatland Council provides for effective engagement and mediation between interested parties, as set out in the Programme for Government. |
383. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Arts; Heritage and the Gaeltacht the position regarding a representation submitted to his office dated 28 June 2012 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42924/12]
View answerA reply has now issued to the Deputy.
384. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Arts; Heritage and the Gaeltacht when a turf compensation payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in county Cavan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43435/12]
View answerAn application for compensation under the cessation of turf cutting compensation scheme, administered by my Department, has been received for the individual referred to in the Deputy’s Question.
One of the qualifying criteria for the scheme is that the claimant must have been cutting turf on the lands in question in the relevant five year period. If, however, an individual has a legal interest in one of the 53 designated raised bog sites and had not been extracting turf in the relevant five year period, my Department is willing to examine the feasibility of relocating such interests to alternative non-designated bogs. It is not proposed to make the financial payment in such cases.
I am advised that the individual referred to in the Deputy’s Question had not been extracting turf from the site in the relevant five year period and has not expressed an interest in relocation to an alternative non-designated bog. My Department will be writing to him in relation to his position in due course.
385. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications; Energy and Natural Resources if, in view of impending budget cuts, if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the energy bill for the public sector is estimated at €500 million a year; his futher attention has been drawn to the potential demonstrated by existing Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland and Office of Public Works led projects to save at least 20% or €100 million a year of this bill within two years if targeted energy efficiency programmes were implemented across the whole sector instead of continuing with the current voluntary and piecemeal initiatives; his plans to ensure that all Government Departments implement such programmes and thus make these cuts that do not hurt; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42823/12]
View answerThe National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP) sets out 90 actions that Government is either already taking or will take in the period to 2020 to achieve the national energy efficiency targets of 20% across the economy and 33% in the public sector. The savings identified in the Action Plan represent approximately €1.6 billion in avoided energy costs for the economy in 2020. The second Action Plan, which I will be bringing to Government shortly, provides a progress report on delivery of the national energy efficiency objectives and shows that Ireland is on track to deliver the 20% energy savings target by 2020. The Plan will also set out a range of energy saving actions in the public sector, which will be prioritised between now and 2020.
My Department and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) have established a comprehensive monitoring and reporting system whereby all energy usage in the Public Sector will be accounted for and progress will be systematically recorded. Last month I wrote to the head of each of the public bodies, reminding them of their obligation to report annually their energy usage to SEAI. Enclosed with each letter was the SEAI report: ‘Energy Use in the Public Sector’, which outlines savings achieved to date across the public sector to end-2010 amount to 650 GWh.
The public sector is estimated to spend more than €500 million per annum on energy. Achieving our 33% savings target for the public sector would save €150 million each year in expenditure. This Government remains firmly committed to meeting this target. This year SEAI has targeted the top 135 public bodies, which account for over 95% of public sector energy consumption. These organisations will submit detailed energy and activity data to SEAI. From this data detailed progress scorecards will be produced for each organisation. From 2013 on, an SEAI online energy data system will facilitate all public bodies and schools to report detailed energy data and allow SEAI to prepare detailed scorecards for all public bodies.
Since 2009, my Department through SEAI has supported over 140 public sector retrofit projects. This year the Better Energy Workplaces 2012 Fund has offered support to 145 projects – 44 of which are in the public sector. This scheme has developed public sector and market competence and capacity for pay-as-you-save type models. I recently approved the formation of an action group to develop a framework for energy performance contracting, which will stimulate mass scale retrofitting projects across the public sector. This has been complemented by the Government decision to require all public sector bodies to go out to the market for energy services if their energy spend is more than €500,000 per year. The energy performance contracting framework will allow public bodies to implement projects whilst not relying on additional public expenditure to do so, thus not impacting on their capital budgets whilst also reducing their operating costs.
Through all of the measures outlined, the exemplary role of the public sector will stimulate investment in energy efficient technologies and the development of a market for energy services and products.
386. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Communications; Energy and Natural Resources the persons who will have rights to any gas extracted from beneath Coillte owned lands in the Lough Allen Basin. [43213/12]
View answerFor clarity, I would like to advise the Deputy that neither an Exploration Licence nor a Petroleum Lease has been granted with respect to any land in the Lough Allen Basin.
On a general note, the Petroleum and Other Minerals Development Act 1960 provides that all petroleum vests in the State. The Act also provides for a compensation mechanism for persons who immediately before the passing of that Act were entitled to an estate in minerals that included petroleum. These compensation provisions would only apply in circumstances where a commercial discovery had been made and petroleum was being extracted.
As the Deputy will be aware my Department does not have a statutory role in relation to the registration of property rights and accordingly does not have details of the property rights held by private individuals, Coillte or other corporate bodies.
387. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Communications; Energy and Natural Resources the efforts that have been made by An Post to secure a replacement financial partner after the collapse of the joint venture with BNP Paribas Fortis in 2010; and what that would result from a new partnership. [43263/12]
View answerA fundamental element of Government policy as set out in the Programme for Government has been to stabilize and restore an effective and functioning banking system. This involved the radical restructuring of the domestic banking system which was announced last year and recalibrated the banking system by introducing the two pillar banks structure thereby creating a banking sector more proportionate to the size of the economy. Other domestic and foreign players remain important competitive instruments in the sector. With the recovery of the economy their role in providing choice in domestic banking services will be important enhancements to the competitive framework. Separately the Deputy should also be aware that in the European Commission’s December 2011 approval of the Bank of Ireland revised restructuring plan under state aid rules, the State has committed to undertake a number of market opening measures in order to enhance competition in the Irish banking market. Measures included amending Section 149 of the Consumer Credit Act 1995 in order that price regulation and fees will not be applicable to new entrants in their first three years of commencing business in Ireland and other changes to the Consumer Credit Act 1995 to make it easier for new entrants to provide the option of electronic banking. The state aid approval also provides for specific market entry opportunities facilitated by Bank of Ireland to ensure access to the domestic market for interested international competitors should such circumstances arise. As I have previously stated, I would welcome interest that foreign entities may have in entering into or expanding in the Irish market.
388. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Communications; Energy and Natural Resources in regards to the warmer home scheme administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, if an attic space in the home of a qualifying applicant, in this case a senior citizen, is restricted in height space thus prohibiting the installation of traditional rolled fibreglass insulation, can the alternative method of blown rockwool, certified by NSAI, be installed and works funded by the SEAI. [43275/12]
View answerThe Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme provides a range of energy efficiency retrofit services free of charge to vulnerable fuel poor households. The Scheme is administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and the services include cavity wall insulation, attic insulation, draught proofing, cylinder lagging jacket and CFLs. The measures are installed as appropriate, following a survey of eligible households, by installers drawn from a panel of Community Based Organisations (CBOs) and private contractors. These measures were selected for inclusion in the Scheme as they were deemed most likely to deliver significant energy savings to homeowners, and would thereby optimise the use of Exchequer funds while at the same time maximising the number of homes addressed.
In certain instances, the home may not be suitable either for the measures funded or the manner in which they are typically achieved. This is not to say that there are not technical solutions to all scenarios but some may not be eligible to be funded through this scheme. In the case of low pitch ceilings, as in the home of the applicant, the difficulty of access makes it difficult or impossible to use traditional rolled mineral fibre installation. Such a situation presents similar technical challenges to the installation of blown fibre solutions, particularly in achieving the proper levels of coverage across the ceiling while maintaining the necessary ventilation provisions. In low pitch ceiling scenarios these are particularly demanding and therefore expensive. Thus, on the basis of the principles stated earlier, the Warmer Homes Scheme does not currently support such solutions.
Queries in relation to individual applications are an operational matter for the SEAI and a dedicated hot line can be reached at 1800 250 204. In addition, the SEAI has established a specific email address for queries from Oireachtas members, which can be sent to oireachtas@seai.ie and will be dealt with promptly.
389. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications; Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding 087 mobile phone coverage in an area (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42605/12]
View answerThe provision of mobile phone networks and services is undertaken by telecommunications service providers who operate in a fully liberalised market.
The regulation of telecommunications service providers, including regulatory issues surrounding mobile phone network coverage and quality, is the responsibility of the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) in accordance with its functions under the Communications Regulation Act 2002, as amended, and the EU Regulatory Framework for Electronic Communications.
ComReg is responsible for issuing licences to mobile phone operators and for monitoring compliance with the conditions attached to the licences. I am informed by ComReg that all of the operators have met their licence requirements in this regard and, indeed, that performance tends to exceed the minimum coverage requirements.
ComReg has an established complaints procedure to deal with specific incidents relating to lack of coverage. I have made enquiries and understand that ComReg has not received any complaints in respect of coverage in the Bonane/Kenmare region over the last six weeks. The Deputy may however wish to raise the matter directly with ComReg.
390. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications; Energy and Natural Resources the reason RTÉ borrowed €38.25m to pay for the roll out of DTT multiplex platform in 2010 when it had cash reserves of €63m at the time; the assets against which the borrowings have been secured; in view of the fact that RTÉ has operated deficits over the last number of years amounting to €19 million in 2008, €17 million in 2009, €4 million in 2010, €15 million and estimates of €60 million in 2012, if he will clarify if these deficits have been authorised and if they contravene the State aid requirements; and his views on whether there is a need for fundamental reform of the funding of broadcasting. [42704/12]
View answerRTÉ is an independent national public service broadcaster whose remit and obligations are set out in Section 114 of the Broadcasting Act 2009.
Section 98 provides that the company shall be independent in the pursuance of these objects, subject to the requirements of the Act and as such, I, as Minister, have no function in the management of RTÉ’s day to day affairs including decisions it makes on its financial expenditure. These are purely matters for RTÉ management.
The borrowing referred to in the question, was integral to RTÉ’s funding the €70m capital cost of the new Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) platform, with the remainder coming from its own resources. This investment will greatly improve the quality of TV reception whilst enabling more channels to be broadcast free-to-air. It will also release valuable spectrum to be auctioned to the benefit of the Exchequer thereby facilitating faster mobile broadband speeds especially in rural areas. RTÉ are to be commended on their investment in this regard. In regard to the mix of funding used, the manner in which RTÉ approached this reflects standard practice in the commercial world and demonstrates prudent financial management, in line with the company’s obligations under the legislation.
In this regard, RTÉ has a direct obligation under Section 105 of the Broadcasting Act 2009 to ensure that its revenue is at the earliest possible date at least sufficient to meet all sums properly chargeable to its current account and to make suitable provisions with respect to capital expenditure. I am satisfied that RTÉ management is fully cognisant of this obligation and are taking all the necessary steps to ensure that the company continues to be in compliance with the terms of the provision. In this regard, I can confirm that I have engaged with the Director-General of RTÉ on a number of occasions since my appointment as Minister and I have made my view clear that a continuing deficit position is not tenable. I believe that RTÉ management fully concur with this and are taking the remedial action necessary to address the situation and to deliver on the commitment to return to a breakeven position by the end of 2013.
In regard to the question of State Aid requirements, I would also like to assure the Deputy that the Broadcaster is fully compliant with State Aid rules and in this regard, I can confirm that the Directorate General for Competition in the E.U. are being kept fully informed of developments in Irish television broadcasting.
On the question of the future funding of broadcasting, the Deputy should be aware that Section 124(8) of the Broadcasting Act 2009 charges the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with carrying out a review of the adequacy or otherwise of the public funding of the Public Service Broadcasters to meet their public service objects. In addition, Section 158(1) of the Act provides that the Authority shall review the operation, effectiveness and impact of the broadcasting funding scheme. I look forward to receiving these reviews before the end of the year and they will serve to inform my views on the need for any reform of the public funding of broadcasting.
391. Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Communications; Energy and Natural Resources if he has been in contact with the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government with a view to advancing a project (details supplied) [42736/12]
View answerThe planning and development of water infrastructure is a matter for the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government. I have not discussed any individual water storage project with the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government.
392. Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Communications; Energy and Natural Resources if he will outline in tabular form the commitments in the Programme for Government pertaining to his ministerial portfolio; the current status of these commitments in terms of implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42875/12]
View answerIn March this year the first Annual Report setting out progress being made on the commitments in the Programme for Government, was published. It is the intention of Government to publish the second annual report next March which will set out specific progress on implementation during the second year.
I have outlined in tabular format below the commitments in the Programme for Government which relate to my Department along with the current status on each.
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Commitments under the Programme for Government |
Status |
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Secure additional resources for the national housing energy retrofitting plan, as part of plans to phase out subsidies in this area by 2014 |
Completed |
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We will double funding for home energy efficiency and renewable energy programmes until the end of 2013, after which time these schemes will be ended. After 2013, we will roll out a "pay as you save" scheme to continue home energy efficiency retrofitting work without recourse to public funding. We will explore the use of funding options such as an Energy Efficiency Obligation on energy suppliers |
In progress |
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We will tender for a "pay as you save" contract to insulate all public buildings in the state, where the contractor provides the capital |
In progress |
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We will facilitate the development of energy co-operatives to make it easier for small-scale renewable energy providers to contribute to our renewables target |
In progress |
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A Next General Telecoms Network: NewERA will co-invest with the private sector and commercial semi state sector to provide next generation broadband to every home and business in the state. This will be achieved by delivering fibre to the home or kerb for 90% of homes and businesses in Ireland with the remaining 10% provided with high speed mobile or satellite broadband |
In progress: The National Broadband Plan was published on 31st August last; it will provide high speed broadband to all parts of the country including a minimum commitment of 30 mbps to all premises and is based on co-investment with the private sector |
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A 21st century "Smart Grid": Beginning with the hand-over of ESB's transmission assets to Eirgrid, we will create a new "Smart Grid" company with ultimate full ownership and responsibility for the development of Ireland's electricity and gas networks |
Government has decided that ownership of transmission assets should remain with ESB and EirGrid will continue as transmission system operator. Progress being made in Smart Grid development. |
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Bio-Energy and Forestry: To accelerate the development of Ireland's forestry and bio-energies, NewERA will merge together Bord na Móna and Coillte to create a new State company called BioEnergy Ireland to become a global leader in the commercialisation of next generation bio-energy technologies, including an annual 14,700 afforestation programme |
Under review: Further development of plans for a merger between Coillte and Bord na Móna will have regard to the outcome of the Bioenergy Strategy process. |
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Complete and publish a strategy to tackle fuel poverty |
Completed |
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We will legislate to support the geothermal sector |
In progress |
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We will ensure that future wind farms are built in locations where wind regime is best and that they are built in large numbers or in clusters to reduce cost of connection to grid under new "planned" Gate 4 process, as opposed to existing "developer led" system |
In progress: Whilst taking full account of need to build out wind energy capacity in line with Ireland’s ambitious targets in this case |
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We will incentivise and promote off-shore drilling and streamline planning and regulatory process for bringing ashore these reserves and seek to maximise the return to the Irish people |
In progress |
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We will review and reform the PSO levy to ensure that only most cost-effective projects are supported by ReFIT tariff and that consumer can benefit from claw-back when market prices exceed tariff or where appropriate, share of profits or royalty. |
In progress: Revised ‘REFIT’ tariff commenced and REFIT for biomass also commenced |
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We will appoint an independent international expert commission to review and report, within six months, on a case for, and cost of, undergrounding (all or part of) Meath-Tyrone 400KV power lines. |
Completed |
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We will provide ReFIT for micro-generators wishing to produce electricity for their own homes, farms and businesses and facilitate them to sell surplus electricity to the grid. The tariff will not be significantly above single energy market price for electricity. |
In progress |
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We will mandate the regulator to require all broadband providers to publish average speeds for each package. |
In progress |
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We will restrict misleading advertisements relating to monthly caps. |
In progress |
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We will introduce a new government rating system so that home owners and tenants can assess broadband facilities easily. |
Action required |
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We will examine the role, and collection of, the TV license fee in light of existing and projected convergence of broadcasting technologies, transform the TV licence into a household-based Public Broadcasting Charge applied to all households and applicable businesses, regardless of the device they use to access content and review new ways of TV licence collection, including the possibility of paying in instalments through another utility bill (electricity or telecom), collection by local authorities, Revenue or new contract with An Post. |
In progress |
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We will review the funding of public and independent broadcasters to ensure a healthy broadcasting environment in Ireland. |
In progress |
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We will maintain the current regime with regard to the Heineken Cup. |
Completed |
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A universal postal service is an essential public service, in particular for rural communities and those disadvantaged communities affected by digital divide. A publicly owned, commercially viable, profitable and efficient An Post is critical to the long-term viability of the postal market. We will enact into law the Postal Services Bill which opens postal market to competition. Will protect universal service obligation by assigning it to An Post for at least 20 years, make provision for state subvention and require that any decision by ComReg to reassign or scrap USO is subject to ministerial approval. |
Completed (universal service obligation has been assigned to An Post for 12 years) |
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We will ensure that the network of post offices around the country is maintained and that communities have access to adequate postal services in their locality. |
In progress |
393. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Communications; Energy and Natural Resources the efforts he will make to see that Saorview packages will start to include Oireachtas TV as standard. [43167/12]
View answerChapter 6, section 125 and section 126 of the Broadcasting Act 2009 provides the legislation to permit the development of an Oireachtas TV channel to be known as the Houses of the Oireachtas channel. This legislation provides that the channel should be established by the Commission of the Houses of the Oireachtas and that the oversight of the channel should be the responsibility of the Joint Administration Committee, a joint committee of the Houses of the Oireachtas.
The commission of the Houses of the Oireachtas may enter into such contracts as are necessary to establish and maintain the Houses of the Oireachtas channel.
Section 126 of the Act amends schedule 1 of the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission Act 2003 to enable the commission to fund the channel and to meet all expenses incurred in this respect.
I have recently received the report on the Oireachtas TV channel from the Houses of the Oireachtas and expect to meet the Ceann Comhairle shortly to discuss it.
RTÉ has built, owns and controls the SAORVIEW TV network and is responsible for the roll-out, coverage and operation of that network. This is in accordance with Part 8 of the Broadcasting Act 2009, which provides that the development of the RTÉ network is an operational matter for RTÉ. RTÉ has informed me that the network build has cost €70 million and that there will be ongoing operational costs associated with the delivery of the SAORVIEW service. All broadcasters availing of SAORVIEW will pay their fair share of the associated costs.
394. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Communications; Energy and Natural Resources the number of mobile phone masts here. [43340/12]
View answerAuthorisation to operate wireless equipment in the provision of communications services to the public is a matter for the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. Any additional requirements for planning consent would be a matter for the appropriate planning authority.
ComReg has advised me that its authorisation process does not distinguish between wireless equipment located on buildings and equipment located on telecommunications masts. ComReg is not in a position, therefore, to calculate the number of telecommunications masts in any region.
I have no statutory function in either the planning consent process or the authorisation to operate wireless equipment.
395. Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Communications; Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide an update on the recent increases in prices for electricity announced by energy companies; the action proposed to help cushion low income households against these increases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43450/12]
View answerI have no statutory function in the setting of electricity prices, whether in the regulated or non-regulated parts of these markets. Responsibility for the regulation of the retail electricity market is a matter for the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER, which is an independent statutory body. Since 4 April 2011 prices in the electricity retail market have been fully deregulated and business and domestic customers can, as a result, avail of competitive offerings from a number of electricity-supply companies. Price setting by electricity suppliers is a commercial and operational matter for the companies concerned.
Global gas and oil prices have risen sharply since the start of 2011 driven by events in the Middle East, North Africa and Japan and demand from the emerging economies of China and India. There are clear indications that international oil and gas prices will rise further over the coming months.
The Government is most concerned at the impact of higher electricity prices on residential and commercial consumers. As indicated above, it is the case that in the main Ireland is at the mercy of international fossil fuel prices which dictate the retail price of electricity. My focus is on those elements of energy costs over which policy can exercise some control.
Total grant funding of €109.267 million has been spent to date under the Better Energy programme on energy efficiency measures in 2011 and 2012. This includes funding for over 198,000 measures in households under the Better Energy Homes scheme. Under the Better Energy Warmer Homes scheme, which provides grant assistance for low income families, €45 million has been specifically allocated to energy poor homes by directly retrofitting through the use of Community-Based Organisations, private contractors and a new area-based pilot that is being undertaken this year. In addition, the Government is actively supporting the roll-out of renewable resources of electricity which has grown from an estimated 9.3% of electricity consumed in 2007 to an estimated 17.6% in 2011.
There are a number of avenues open to consumers to try to mitigate rising electricity prices and measures are also in place to assist them. Accordingly, consumers can shop around to get the best possible price and service deal from suppliers bearing in mind that other suppliers, can and do offer competitive prices and products. Consumers can also take steps to improve the efficiency of their electricity usage which delivers demonstrable savings. The CER is also working with energy suppliers to ensure that vulnerable customers are protected through, inter alia, the installation of pay-as-you-go meters.
The long-term policy responses for Ireland to combat vulnerability to high and volatile gas prices continues to be increasing the use of renewables, better energy efficiencies and reducing the reliance on gas in the fuel mix. Implementation of the measures set out in the Government’s affordable energy strategy is also key to protecting the interests of vulnerable customers.
The affordable energy strategy was published in November 2011 and developed by the interdepartmental agency group on affordable energy, IDGAE, as part of the Departments commitment in the Programme for Government to help mitigate energy poverty. The affordable energy strategy provides a framework for building upon the many measures already in place to protect households at risk from the effects of energy poverty, which include the thermal efficiency-based measures delivered through the Better Energy Warmer Homes programme.
There are forty-eight actions identified in the strategy to be implemented over the life-time of the report, three years. Five priority measures are identified, including a commitment to review the national fuel scheme in the context of examining the feasibility of aligning income supports with the energy efficiency and income of the home, the phased introduction of minimal thermal efficiency standards for rental accommodation, ensuring greater access to energy efficiency measures, reforming the eligibility criteria for energy efficiency schemes and the introduction of an area based approach.
I have allocated €23.647 million in 2012 to the alleviation of energy poverty which will be disbursed through a combination of community based organisations, private contractors and via an area-based approach.
396. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment; Community and Local Government if his Department will engage with local authorities in the provision of services; and if so, the details of same. [42631/12]
View answer397. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for the Environment; Community and Local Government if his Department will work with local authorities in the delivery of services; and if so the details of same. [42632/12]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 396 and 397 together.
I refer to the reply to Questions Nos.167 and 170 of 4 October 2012 which set out the position in this matter.
