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Wednesday, 17 Oct 2012

Written Answers Nos. 193-203

Irish Language Issues

Questions (193)

Sandra McLellan

Question:

193. Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he is satisfied with the level of Irish language advertising on RTÉ and TV3; his plans to increase the level of advertising as Gaeilge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45060/12]

View answer

Written answers

In accordance with the provisions of the Broadcasting Act 2009, the public service broadcast corporations, RTÉ and TG4, are independent in the pursuance of their objects, subject to the requirements of the Act, and as such I, as Minister, have no function in the management of their day to day affairs, including decisions relating to advertising. I should point out to the Deputy however, that section 105(6) of the Broadcasting Act 2009 does provide that, with specific reference to the public service broadcasters, charges and conditions may be fixed subject to variations benefitting advertisers who use the Irish language in their advertisements. That said, the decision to broadcast advertisements in the Irish language, remains a matter for the public service broadcasters themselves. In the case of TV3 and other commercial broadcasters, these are independent, private enterprises in which I have no function.

Regulatory Bodies

Questions (194)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

194. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45067/12]

View answer

Written answers

Under section 4 of the Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2006 the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) has the responsibility to regulate the activities of electrical contractors with respect to safety. In November 2007, the Commission published the decision paper “Vision for the Regulation of Electrical Contractors with respect to Safety” (CER/07/203) which sets out the Commission’s high-level approach to the regulation of electrical contractors with respect to safety. Most recently, I have given CER consent to draft regulations designating Restricted Electrical Works under Section 9 (E) subsection (1) of the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 inserted by the Energy Miscellaneous Act 2006 and this work is underway. Once these works are designated it will be illegal for anyone other than a Registered Electrical Contractor to complete these works.

For clarity, the CER recommends that only Registered Electrical Contractors are used to complete electrical work, regardless of whether that electrical work is covered by the aforementioned proposed regulations. Separately, the Minister for Justice and Equality has introduced SI No. 144 of 2012, the Private Security (Licensing and Standards) Regulations 2012, which introduces new licensing requirements for personnel involved in the installation of CCTV and access control (among other activities). These regulations and any review of these regulations are not within my remit.

It is recognised that the installation of CCTV and access control (among other activities) may include some electrical work that will fall under this licensing requirement. Being licensed under the Private Security (Licensing and Standards) Regulations 2012 is not a substitute for being a Registered Electrical Contractor and does not satisfy the recommendation that only Registered Electrical Contractors be used to complete electrical work.

Alternative Energy Projects

Questions (195)

Michelle Mulherin

Question:

195. Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will review the efficacy of the biofuels obligation scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45142/12]

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Written answers

The Biofuel Obligation Scheme was introduced in July 2010 as the primary means to meet the target of at least 10% renewable energy in transport by 2020, which was mandated to all EU Member States by the Renewable Energy Directive. The obligation currently requires that the amount of biofuel brought to the market is not less than 4.166% of the relevant disposal of petroleum road transport fuels. The biofuel obligation has successfully delivered increased amounts of biofuel in Ireland resulting in 145 million litres of biofuel being placed on the Irish market in 2011.

This obligation will increase over time which will require suppliers of road transport fuels to make certain that even higher volumes sold are biofuel. I am currently examining the possibility of implementing the first increase to the Biofuel Obligation from 2013. I will be taking into account all relevant factors, including developments in the Irish market and in the UK and other EU markets as well as sustainability considerations. My Department estimates that by 2020, a market of approaching 500 million litres of biofuel will be required in order to meet our requirements under the Renewable Energy Directive.

Renewable Energy Incentives

Questions (196)

Arthur Spring

Question:

196. Deputy Arthur Spring asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the invention grants in renewable energy that exist for students, companies and individuals here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45264/12]

View answer

Written answers

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), under the Renewable Energy Research, Demonstration & Development (RERD&D) Programme, supports research and development of renewable energy technologies and systems. Applications for funding under the scheme are invited on a regular basis. Information can be found at http://www.seai.ie/Grants/Renewable_Energy_RD_D .

I understand also that Enterprise Ireland operates a range of supports for Innovation & R&D which are applicable across a range of Science and Technology research areas, including renewable energy, as long as a strong commercial case can be made for the proposed project. For example, companies can avail of direct R&D grants in order to undertake in-company R&D or they can be supported to undertake collaborative research with the Third Level in areas such as renewable energy. Researchers in Higher Education Institutions can similarly avail of Commercialisation grants in order to turn their existing research into a more commercially relevant project.

Consultancy Contracts Issues

Questions (197)

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

197. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide details in tabular form for the years 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and to date in 2012 the total amount of expenditure on consultancy by his Department, any body under his aegis or State agency for which he has responsibility; the names of the consultancy companies awarded contracts; the nature of the work concerned; the fees paid to each consultant; if the matter was advertised for competitive tender; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45293/12]

View answer

Written answers

The total amount of expenditure by my Department from its consultancy services and value for money and policy reviews budget in the years 2010 and 2011 and for the first eight months of 2012 is set out in table 1.

My Department administers a very diverse and complex brief, and procurement of specialist consultancy advice is necessary to enable the Department to discharge its responsibility in this regard. This includes major projects such as an intensive and nationwide campaign on Digital Switchover, strategic review of oil refining capability, complex telecommunications contracts such as the MANs and the National Broadband Scheme, and oversight of compliance with the Corrib consent conditions (the cost of which is recouped from the developer). In procuring these specialised services, my Department always seeks to ensure value for money and the keeping of expenditure to the minimum necessary. In this regard, the Deputy might note that expenditure from my Department’s consultancy services and value for money and policy reviews budget has reduced from €2.249m in 2008 to €1.372m in 2011. The Department also necessarily incurs some expenditure on outsourced services as part of programme expenditure, an element of which is consultancy in nature. The overall spend for this consultancy element is set out in table 2.

My Department will continue to keep spending on all consultancies to a minimum consistent with ensuring the necessary expertise is available to discharge the Department’s wide and complex brief. Details of expenditure on consultancy is set out in the tables below.

Table 1.

Period

2008

2009

2010

2011

Jan – 15 Oct 2012

Amount

€2.249m

€0.739m

€1.257m

€1.372m

€0.657m

Table2.

Period

2008

2009

2010

2011

Jan – 15 Oct 2012

Amount

€3.590m

€1.043m

€0.675m

€1.338m

€0.980m

Administrative Consultancy Expenditure in 2008:

Consultancy

Purpose

Amount

Corporate

Helm Corporation Ltd

Temporary Head of Internal Audit Unit

56,217.85

Siobhan Fay

DCENR Audit Committee

3,000.00

Pamela McDonald

DCENR Audit Committee

2,000.00

Crowleys DFK

Spot Checks on DCMNR Capital Projects 2006

10,748.63

ESB Independent Generation

Financial Advisor to DCMNR

16,940.00

Stephen O’Connor

Financial Advisor to DCENR

206,876.96

Mason, Hayes & Curran

Provision of Med. Services arising from 2005 CSCOP

7,578.23

Mason, Hayes & Curran

HR Needs

4,198.10

307,559.77

Broadcasting

Gary Tonge

Technical advice in relation to Digital Terrestrial Television Trials

5,445.75

PriceWaterhouse Cooper

Re-Engineering of TV Licence Fee Review System

102,196.84

Media Literacy Education

Media Literacy (Broadcasting)

10,000.00

Margaret O’Driscoll

Legal Advice for Broadcasting Bill 2008

7,865.00

Marie McGonagle

Legal Advice for Broadcasting Bill 2008

7,500.00

133,007.59

Communications

Norcontel (Ireland) Ltd

Technical Review of the Emergency Call Answering Service (ECAS)

129,318.75

Norcontel (Ireland) Ltd

Legal Advice on procurement of an ECAS Provider

74,387.50

Matheson Ormsby Prentice

Legal Advice on procurement of an ECAS Provider

24,542.73

PA Consulting

Review of Public Sector Benefits of Postcodes

54,450.00

Mason Communications

Next Generation Network Expert Advice

30,848.90

313,547.88

Natural Resources

A & L Goodbody Solicitors

Legal Advice for Bord na Mona – Employee Share Ownership Plan (ESOP) documentation

65,120.21

Matheson Ormsby Prentice

Legal Advice re post sale of Irish National Petroleum Corporation (INPC)

8,492.05

(AEGIS MEDIA IRL)

Study on Transmission Line Infrastructure  EirGrid

22,100.24

ECOFYS GMBH

Study on Transmission Line Infrastructure  EirGrid

145,052.21

Golder Associates Ltd

Study on Transmission Line Infrastructure  EirGrid

3,388.00

Beauchamps Solicitors

Legal Advice re Bord Gais Eireann Employee Share Ownership Plan Documentation

80,531.55

Eneclann Ltd

GSI Geological Heritage

2,855.60

KPMG

Financial Advice for Project Virginia

181,500.00

Mason, Hayes & Curran

Legal Advice for Project Virginia

22,578.36

Purvin & Gertz Inc.

Security of Ireland’s Access to Commercial Oil Supplies

271,766.15

ECOFYS GMBH

All Island Grid Study including Demand Side Management

54,093.30

Noel J Travers

 Drafting of PSO under Section 39 of Electricity Reg Act 1999

9,075.00

Keane Offshore Integrity

Corrib Verification Process

177,962.40

Charles Desmond

Environmental Monitoring Group

1,737.81

Eamon O’Duibhir

Environmental Monitoring Group

2,043.62

Patrick Barrett

Environmental Monitoring Group

1,389.32

Clare Morgan

Geophysical Support

62,685.00

Arthur Cox Solicitors

Legal Advice on the Corrib Gas Pipeline

42,945.98

David Fox Associates

Petroleum Engineering Support

179,634.00

Cefas - Lowestoft

OIC 2007 Action

3,527.45

AEA TECHNOLOGY Plc

Assessing of EIS according to Section40 Apps

56,116.20

GL Industrial Services UK

Technical Assistance Corrib Gas Safety

22,869.75

CSA Group

Oil and Gas Industry Support Service

10,248.70

CSA Group

GSI Management

14,338.00

Not available

Provision of Geological Advice on Selected Projects

29,720.63

Ralph Horne

Advice on GSI library acquisitions & management 07

5,670.00

Petra Coffey

GSI Archivist Services

17,500.00

1,494,941.53

Total

2,249,056.77

Programme Consultancy Expenditure in 2008:

Consultant

Purpose

Amount €

Subhead A5 – Office Machinery & Supplies

Astron

ICT Strategy

80,310.00

Sonas Innovation

ICT Strategy

8,470.00

88,780.00

Subhead A9 – Value for Money & Policy Reviews

Petrus Consulting

Expenditure Review of MANS and GBS

3,388.00

Subhead B1 – ICT Programmes

Arthur Cox Solicitors

569,579.58

Magnum Opus

1,137,507.18

Norcontel (Ireland) ltd

19,063.35

Quantum Equity

ICT Project Consultancy

12,584.00

Mason Hayes & Curran

Legal Advice – Schools Broadband

9,273.38

Next Utility (Ireach)

Make IT Secure

20,000.01

ESRI Ireland

39,440.89

McCann Fitzgerald Solicitors

912,230.96

Toorane Technology

2,065.50

Mason Communications

Project Kelvin

24,263.40

2,746,008.25

Subhead C6 – Digital Terrestrial Television

Mason Communications

30,875.00

Mason, Hayes & Curran

Advice on DTT Trials

30,824.52

61,699.52

Subhead D3 – Energy RTDDI

Network Resources Ltd

Energy Research Strategy

65,049.60

Subhead E1 – Petroleum Services

ERT (Scotland)

Strategic Environmental Assessment

354,226.82

Subhead E2 – Mining Services

Cantab Consulting

Examination of planning application for K2 extension to Galmoy Mine

12,122.40

Camp Dresser & McKee

Avoca Remedial Study

174,113.73

Hayes Higgins Partnership

Rehabilitation of Clashdugg Mine

1,214.84

Dara Design & Print Ltd

Corporate Branding & Web Design

19,946.91

Eugene Daly Associates

484.00

207,881.88

Subhead E5 – National Seabed Survey

PriceWaterhouse Coopers

INFOMAR

66,085.65

3,589,731.72

Administrative Consultancy Expenditure in 2009:

Consultant

Purpose

Amount €

Communications

Mason Communications

One Stop Shop

5,000.00

5,000.00

Broadcasting

Mason Hayes & Curran

Legal Advice on Broadcasting Bill

27,366.85

Pricewaterhouse Coopers

TV Licence Fee Review

11,846.25

39,213.10

Energy

NCB Corporate Finance

Advice to Minister on BGÉ / TSO Arrangements

48,600.00

Reidy Brophy

Security of Irelands Access to Commercial Oil Supplies

3,600.00

Fergus B Cahill

Chairman of Independent Analysis into the Transfer of Transmission Assets from ESB to EirGrid

3,629.37

55,829.37

Natural Resources

Ralph Horne

Advice on GSI Library

1,470.00

Petra Coffey

GSI Archivist Services

4,600.00

Pamela Austin

GSI Archivist Services

18,225.02

Parkmore Environmental Services

Specialist Groundwater Advice

2,126.25

Bruce Misstear

Specialist Groundwater Advice

3,000.00

Jenny Deakin

Specialist Groundwater Advice

4,981.75

Ben Dhonau

Specialist advice - Minerals Development Bill

40,987.39

Arthur Cox Solicitor

Corrib Verification Process

19,287.92

Arthur Cox Solicitor

Legal Advice on Seven Heads

1,215.00

Keane Offshore Integrity

Corrib Verification Process

88,609.95

Members of EMG

Environmental Monitoring Group

33,765.18

David Fox

Petroleum Engineering Support

175,366.95

Clare Morgan

Geophysical support

67,464.02

AEA Technology

Assessment of EIS

30,693.44

491,792.87

Corporate Support

Stephen O’Connor

Financial Adviser to DCENR

42,382.24

ESB 1927 Properties

Financial Adviser to DCENR

39,204.41

KPMG

Financial Adviser to DCENR

60,750.00

Legal Island

HR MS

345.00

DCENR Audit Committee

External Chair & Board of DCENR Audit Committee

4,320.00

 

 

147,001.65

 

 

738,836.99

Programme Consultancy Expenditure in 2009

Consultant

Purpose

Amount €

Subhead A5 – Office Machinery & Supplies

Bianconi Research Ltd

ICT Strategy

11,390.63

Subhead A9 – Value for Money & Policy Reviews

Indecon

Value for Money Review

6,860.00

Subhead B1 – ICT Programmes

Magnum Opus Ltd

MSE for Procurement E-Commerce Measures

117,032.66

KPMG

27,823.50

Magnum Opus Ltd

MSE for Contract Management for E-Commerce Measures

187,549.83

Arthur Cox Solicitors

8,649.85

Magnum Opus Ltd

Broadband Project Management Consultancy BMW

365,261.66

Magnum Opus Ltd

Interim MSE Costs

290,663.91

996,981.41

Subhead E1 – Petroleum Services

ERT (Scotland)

Strategic Environmental Assessment

1,305.19

Subhead E2 – Mining Service

Cantab Consulting

Closure of Galmoy Mine

23,721.82

GWP Consultants

Inspection of East Avoca after Heavy Rainfall

3,190.90

26912.72

1,043,449.95

Administrative Consultancy Expenditure in 2010:

Consultant

Purpose

Amount €

Communications

Norcontel (Ireland) Ltd

Supervision of testing of new ECAS system

95,541.60

PRICEWATERHOUSE COOPERS

Liberalisation of Irish Postal Services Market

15,125.00

Economic and Social Research Institute

ESRI Programme of Research in Communications

75,000.00

 

 

185,666.60

Broadcasting

Indecon

Review of designated events of public importance

73,386.49

Energy

Steelhenge Crisis and Risk consulting

Energy Emergency Arrangements (Avogadro)

5,545.91

Eric van Rongen

Report on Health Issues re HVDC Cable Technology

3,630.75

A & L Goodbody Solicitors

Legal Advice

65,037.50

IBI Corporate Finance

Financial Advice

98,800.00

Fergus B Cahill

Independent Chairman of Elec Trans Assets Analysis

6,464.64

Department of Enterprise, Trade & Investment NI

Energy Emergency Arrangements (Refund)

-1,476.27

 

 

176,002.53

Natural Resources

Keane Offshore Integrity Ltd

Corrib Verification Process

74,421.97

Committee Members

Consent Conditions Monitoring Committee

9,512.02

David Fox Associates

Petroleum Engineering Support

210,421.98

Clare Morgan

Geophysicist Consultancy

65,342.90

AEA TECHNOLOGY plc

Assessing of EIS according to Section40 Apps

5,155.35

AMEC Environment & Infrastructure UK Ltd (Entec)

145,204.99

Environ uk ltd

Assessment of Corrib Gas Pipeline

91,799.18

Mr. Ben Dhonau

Provision of Specialist Geoscience Advice

35,723.13

 

 

637,581.52

Corporate Support

KPMG

Financial Advisor to DCENR

157,300.00

Murray Consultants Ltd.

Media Services

12,206.42

Ernst & Young

Financial Advice

12,402.50

Committee Members

DCENR Audit Committee

2,736.00

 

 

184,644.92

 

 

1,257,282.06

Programme Consultancy Expenditure in 2010:

Consultant

Purpose

Amount €

Subhead B1 – ICT Programmes

Mason Communications

NBS Consultancy

95,538.96

Magnum Opus

Interim MSE

144,741.60

MANs Phase 2 Project Management

132,297.48

Magnum Opus

MSE Process Management

80,150.40

   452,728.44

Subhead C5 – Grants to DTT

Behaviour & Attitudes Limited

DTT

49,912.50

Subhead E1 – Petroleum Services

Xodus Group

Strategic Environmental Assessments

150,631.89

Subhead E2 – Mining Services

(AEGIS MEDIA IRL) Brindley Advertising Ltd.

Avoca Mine Public Meeting

1,575.37

CDM (Camp Dresser & Mc Kee Irl Ltd)

Avoca Mine Public Meeting - Support

12,705.00

Cantab Consulting

Advice in relation to closure of Galmoy Mine

7,893.38

22,173.75

675,446.58

Administrative Consultancy Expenditure in 2011

Consultancy

Purpose

Amount €

Communications

Deloitte & Touche

Communications Policy Consultancy

45,919.50

Economic and Social Research Institute

ESRI Programme of Research in Communications

75,000.00

PA Consulting Group

National Digital Research Centre

29,040.00

 

 

149,959.50

Energy

Purvin & Gertz  Inc

Strategic Case for Oil Refining Requirements

154,688.65

Fergus B Cahill

Independent Chairman of Elec Trans Assets Analysis

1,446.36

IBI Corporate Finance

Financial Advice on Elec Transmission Asset Review

18,150.00

OHH Energy

Independent Commission Meath Tyrone Power Lines

36,109.29

2B Energy

Independent Commission Meath Tyrone Power Lines

32,284.71

Elimark AB

Independent Commission Meath Tyrone Power Lines

34,134.85

 

 

276,813.86

Natural Resources

SLR Consulting ( Ireland Ltd

Core Library Holdings Review

39,688.00

Jenny Deakin

GWPS

1,750.00

Arthur Cox Solicitor

Legal Advice on the Corrib Gas Pipeline

161,297.04

Arthur Cox Solicitor

PAD - Legal Advice in Relation to Seven Heads Gas Field

2,420.00

David Fox Associates

Petroleum Engineering Support

181,254.74

Clare Morgan

Geophysicist Consultancy

64,904.40

Keane Offshore Integrity Ltd

Corrib Verification Process

141,733.26

Committee Members

Consent Conditions Monitoring Committee

538.05

AMEC Environment & Infrastructure UK Ltd (Entec)

Assessment of Corrib Gas Pipeline

22,918.94

Environ uk ltd

Assessment of Corrib Gas Pipeline

14,928.81

Environ uk ltd

Monitoring of Corrib Gas Consent Conditions

99,352.95

 

 

730,786.19

Corporate Support

Murray Consultants Ltd

Media Services

8,349.00

KPMG Fees Account

Financial Advisor to DCENR (KPMG Secondment)

133,100.00

Iron Mountain

P&T Pension Consultancy

30,430.19

Ernst & Young

Financial Advice

12,402.50

Dept of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation

Irish Commitment to Reducing Admin Budget by 25%

14,000.00

Committee Members

Consultancy to Audit Committee

4,446.00

Ronan Tierney (Tierney & Associates )

Temporary Head of IAU

11,560.34

 

 

214,288.03

 

 

1,371,847.58

Program Consultancy Expenditure in 2011:

Consultant

Purpose

Amount €

Subhead B1 – ICT Programmes

PA Consulting

Implementation of National Post Codes System

339,942.24

Magnum Opus Ltd

MSE for Contract Management

66,792.00

Magnum Opus Ltd

Interim MSE Costs

50,062.00

Analysys Mason Ltd.

NBS Consultancy

207,826.97

664,623.21

Subhead C5 – Grants to DTT

Latinollo Ltd (Trading as McConnell’s)

National Digital Switchover Campaign

574,897.18

Subhead E1 – Petroleum Services

Xodus Group

76,353.86

Fugro Survey Ltd

IOSEA 4 (Irish Offshore)

805.67

77,159.53

Subhead E2 - Mining Services

Dr. Michael Johnson

Silvermines Vegetation Study

1,210.00

Dr. Michael Johnson

Silvermines Vegetation Management Review

5,848.68

CDM (Camp Dresser & Mc Kee Irl Ltd)

Sampling of Gortmore and Silvermines Vegetation

13,890.80

20,949.48

 

1,337,629.40

Administrative Consultancy Expenditure in 2012:

Consultancy

Purpose

Amount €

Communications

Deloitte & Touche

Procurement Advice on Sensitive Comms Issue

12,054.00

Indecon

National Broadband Plan

28,167.00

Mason Communications Ltd.

National Broadband Plan

30,522.45

 

 

70,743.45

Energy

Purvin & Gertz  Inc

Strategic Case for Oil Refining Requirements

39,311.55

Kylemore Services

Security of Ireland’s Access to Commercial Oil Supplies

367.50

Reidy Brophy Limited

Security of Ireland’s Access to Commercial Oil Supplies

7,100.00

OHH Energy

Independent Commission Meath Tyrone Power Lines

5,012.57

Elimark AB

Independent Commission Meath Tyrone Power Lines

4,653.36

 

 

56,444.98

Natural Resources

Petroleum Infrastructure Programme Fund

Petroleum Engineering Support

3,780.00

David Fox Associates

Petroleum Engineering Support

118,820.36

Clare Morgan

Petroleum Engineering Support

6,918.75

Clare Morgan

Geophysicist Consultancy

56,032.66

Keane Offshore Integrity Ltd

Corrib Verification Process

59,392.02

Committee Members

Consent Conditions Monitoring Committee

2,277.20

Environ uk ltd

Monitoring of Corrib Gas Consent Conditions

151,493.01

 

 

398,714.00

Corporate Support

KPMG Fees Account

Financial Advisor to DCENR

12,129.17

Pricewaterhouse Coopers

Financial Advisor to DCENR

49,200.00

Cloda Ryan

Pension Advisor Services

3,439.47

Committee Members

Consultancy to Audit Committee

1,368.00

Tierney & Associates

Temporary Head of IAU

40,183.49

Bearingpoint Ireland Ltd

HR Skills Survey

24,600.00

 

 

130,920.13

 

 

656,822.56

Programme Consultancy Expenditure in 2012:

Consultant

Purpose

Amount €

Subhead A3 – ICT Programmes

Analysys Mason Ltd.

National Broadband Scheme

41,737.80

Analysys Mason Ltd.

Kelvin Project

6,157.66

Mason Hayes & Curran

Post Codes

25,719.30

PA Consulting

Post Codes

140,367.60

213,982.36

Subhead A5 – Information Society and eInclusion

VBF Technology

Cyber Security

31,126.16

UCD CCI

Cyber Security

41,010.98

72,137.14

Subhead B7 – Grants For Digital Terrestrial Television

Latinollo Ltd. (Trading as McConnell’s)

Digital Switchover Campaign

681,328.40

Subhead D3 – Petroleum Services

Xodus Group Ltd.

Scientific and Environmental Assessment of the Irish and Celtic Seas

12,151.32

 

 

979,599.22

Programme Consultancy Expenditure in 2011:

Consultant

Purpose

Amount

Subhead B1 – ICT Programmes

PA Consulting

Implementation of National Post Codes System

339,942.24

Magnum Opus Ltd

MSE for Contract Management

66,792.00

Magnum Opus Ltd

Interim MSE Costs

50,062.00

Analysys Mason Ltd.

NBS Consultancy

207,826.97

664,623.21

Subhead C5 – Grants to DTT

Latinollo Ltd (Trading as McConnell’s)

National Digital Switchover Campaign

574,897.18

Subhead E1 – Petroleum Services

Xodus Group

76,353.86

Fugro Survey Ltd

IOSEA 4 (Irish Offshore)

805.67

77,159.53

Subhead E2 – Mining Services

Dr. Michael Johnson

Silvermines Vegetation Study

1,210.00

Dr. Michael Johnson

Silvermines Vegetation Management Review

5,848.68

CDM (Camp Dresser & Mc Kee Irl Ltd)

Sampling of Gortmore and Silvermines Vegetation

13,890.80

20,949.48

 

1,337,629.40

Administrative Consultancy Expenditure in 2012:

Consultancy

Purpose

Amount €

Communications

Deloitte & Touche

Procurement Advice on Sensitive Comms Issue

12,054.00

Indecon

National Broadband Plan

28,167.00

Mason Communications Ltd.

National Broadband Plan

30,522.45

 

 

70,743.45

Energy

Purvin & Gertz  Inc

Strategic Case for Oil Refining Requirements

39,311.55

Kylemore Services

Security of Ireland’s Access to Commercial Oil Supplies

367.50

Reidy Brophy Limited

Security of Ireland’s Access to Commercial Oil Supplies

7,100.00

OHH Energy

Independent Commission Meath Tyrone Power Lines

5,012.57

Elimark AB

Independent Commission Meath Tyrone Power Lines

4,653.36

 

 

56,444.98

Natural Resources

Petroleum Infrastructure Programme Fund

Petroleum Engineering Support

3,780.00

David Fox Associates

Petroleum Engineering Support

118,820.36

Clare Morgan

Petroleum Engineering Support

6,918.75

Clare Morgan

Geophysicist Consultancy

56,032.66

Keane Offshore Integrity Ltd

Corrib Verification Process

59,392.02

Committee Members

Consent Conditions Monitoring Committee

2,277.20

Environ uk ltd

Monitoring of Corrib Gas Consent Conditions

151,493.01

 

 

398,714.00

Corporate Support

KPMG Fees Account

Financial Advisor to DCENR

12,129.17

Pricewaterhouse Coopers

Financial Advisor to DCENR

49,200.00

Cloda Ryan

Pension Advisor Services

3,439.47

Committee Members

Consultancy to Audit Committee

1,368.00

Tierney & Associates

Temporary Head of IAU

40,183.49

Bearingpoint Ireland Ltd

HR Skills Survey

24,600.00

 

 

130,920.13

 

 

656,822.56

Programme Consultancy Expenditure in 2012:

Consultant

Purpose

Amount

Subhead A3 – ICT Programmes

Analysys Mason Ltd.

National Broadband Scheme

41,737.80

Analysys Mason Ltd.

Kelvin Project

6,157.66

Mason Hayes & Curran

Post Codes

25,719.30

PA Consulting

Post Codes

140,367.60

213,982.36

Subhead A5 – Information Society and eInclusion

VBF Technology

Cyber Security

31,126.16

UCD CCI

Cyber Security

41,010.98

72,137.14

Subhead B7 – Grants For Digital Terrestrial Television

Latinollo Ltd. (Trading as McConnell’s)

Digital Switchover Campaign

681,328.40

Subhead D3 – Petroleum Services

Xodus Group Ltd.

Scientific and Environmental Assessment of the Irish and Celtic Seas

12,151.32

 

 

979,599.22

Legal Matters

Questions (198)

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

198. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide details in tabular form for the years 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and to date in 2012 inclusive, of the arrangements entered into by him, any body under his aegis or State agency for which he has responsibility for the obtaining of advice from a senior or junior counsel and or a firm of solicitors; the subject matter for which advice was sought; the names of the barristers' and solicitors' firms concerned and the fees paid; the nature of the work concerned; if in each case the matter was advertised for competitive tender; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45310/12]

View answer

Written answers

Details on arrangements for advice from counsels and firms of solicitors entered into by my Department since 2008 are set out in the table below.

My Department administers a very diverse and complex brief. The Department has a small cohort of permanent staff, some 245 full time equivalents at present. Its remit includes oversight of very complex policy areas and direct procurement of major services where protection of the State’s interest must be paramount. This situation necessarily requires my Department to procure specialist external professional advice notably in legal, financial and technical areas to enable it to discharge its responsibility to deliver quality services and protect the interests of the State and the taxpayer. Projects for which my Department is responsible include the intensive and nationwide campaign on Digital Switchover, strategic review of oil refining capability, complex telecommunications contracts such as the MANs and the National Broadband Scheme, and oversight of compliance with the Corrib consent conditions (the cost of which is recouped from the developer).

In addition the very limited in–house technical resources in areas such as geoscience, energy and telecommunications makes it imperative to have recourse to a certain amount of external professional services in these areas. The table below reflects the above context in relation professional legal services. In procuring these specialised services, my Department always seeks to ensure value for money and the keeping of expenditure to the minimum necessary. Details on arrangements entered into by bodies under the aegis of the Department are a day to day matter for the bodies themselves. In relation to the competitive tendering for contracts my Department adheres to the relevant EU Regulations and Department of Finance Guidelines on the procurement of goods and services.

Name of Legal Service Provider

Cost 2008

Cost 2009

Cost 2010

Cost 2011

Cost to Date 2012

Reason for Procurement

Margaret O’Driscoll

€ 6,957.50

€ 27,366.86

€ -

€ -

€ -

Legal advice relating to drafting of the Broadcasting Bill 08

Mason, Hayes & Curran

€ 30,824.52

€ 27,366.86

€ -

€ -

Legal advice on challenge to the Broadcasting Amendment Act 07

Marie McGonagle

€ 7,500.00

€ -

€ -

€ -

Legal advice on Draft Broadcasting Bill 2008

Aisling Martin

€106,271.63

€ 74,116.45

€ 85,003.94

€ 18,367.80

€ -

Advice and legal representation before the Moriarty Tribunal

Diarmuid Rossa Phelan

€144,120.00

€167,311.58

€ 89,727.55

€ 24,200.00

€ -

Advice and legal representation before the Moriarty Tribunal

John L O’Donnell

€ 58,564.00

€ 53,472.15

€ 73,025.92

€ 7,686.53

€33,396.00

Advice and legal representation before the Moriarty Tribunal

Conleth Bradley

€ 43,832.25

€114,521.43

€ 34,509.20

€ 28,943.20

€22,264.00

Advice and legal representation before the Moriarty Tribunal

Lorraine M Higgins

€ 1,936.00

€ -

€ -

€ -

€ -

Engaged in relation to Moriarty Tribunal

Micheál O’Higgins

€ -

€ 7,290.00

€ 1,331.00

€ -

€ -

Engaged in relation to Moriarty Tribunal

Eoin McCullagh

€ -

€ 7,290.00

€ -

€ -

€ -

Engaged in relation to Moriarty Tribunal

Elizabeth Gavin

€ -

€ 1,000.00

€ 25,700.00

€ 28,510.80

€ -

Engaged in relation to Moriarty Tribunal

Claudine M Foley

€ -

€ -

€ 6,655.00

€ -

€ -

Engaged in relation to Moriarty Tribunal

Derry Hand

€ -

€ -

€ -

€ 1,380.00

€ -

Engaged in relation to Moriarty Tribunal

Richard Black Solicitors

€ -

€ -

€197,492.37

€ -

Global Crossing Project: Legal work seeking payment from a liquidated company.

Beauchamps Solicitors

€ 18,264.95

€ -

€ -

€ -

Legal advice in relation to amendments to ESB ESOT

Noel J. Travers (Barrister at Law)

€ 9,075.00

€ -

€ -

€ -

Draft PSO order for REFIT scheme

Matheson Ormsby and Prentice

20, 283.25

€ -

€ -

€ -

Legal Advice on procurement of an ECAS provider

Mason, Hayes and Curran

€ 11,776.33

€ -

€ -

€ -

Specialist Employment Law Requirement

Richard Black Solicitors

€ 1,331.00

€ -

€ -

€ -

Legal advice in relation to Concession Agreement with NDRC

Mason Hayes & Curran

€ 9,273.38

€ -

€ -

€ -

Advice on Schools Broadband Scheme

Arthur Cox Solicitors

€569,579.58

€ 8,649.85

€ -

€ -

Provide legal advice in relation to all aspects of the MANs projects

McCann Fitzgerald

€912,230.96

€ 13,162.46

€ -

€ -

Legal Advice on the procurement of the National Broadband Scheme

Eoin McCullagh

€ 6,050.00

€ -

€ -

Opinion on a matter pertaining to the NBS competition

A&L Goodbody

€ 65,120.21

€ -

€ -

€ -

Legal advice in respect of Bord na Mona ESOP

Beauchamps Solicitors

€ 62,266.60

€ -

€ -

€ -

Legal advice in respect of BGE ESOP

Mason, Hayes and Curran

€ 22,578.35

€ -

€ -

€ -

Legal advice in respect of proposed BGE investments

Matheson, Orsmby Prentice

€ 8,492.07

€ -

€ -

€ -

Legal advice in respect of sale of Irish National Petroleum Corporation

A & L Goodbody

€ 65,037.50

€ -

€ -

Legal advice regarding the proposal from ESB for the acquisition by that company of Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE).

Arthur Cox Solicitors

€ 42,945.98

€ 20,502.92

€ -

€163,717.04

€ -

Legal advice in respect of the Corrib Gas Pipeline & the Seven Heads Lease

Mason, Hayes and Curran

€ -

€ -

€ - licence holder

€ 62,530.37

€25,719.30

Legal services related to the procurement process to appoint a postcode management

Consultancy Contracts Issues

Questions (199)

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

199. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide a list of all companies or persons providing an external professional service to his Department such as ICT, legal advice, advertising, project management and including any other external professional service not listed; the amount invoiced by each company to him over the past 12 months, in tabular form. [45327/12]

View answer

Written answers

The table below outlines details of fees paid for professional services by my Department over the past 12 months. My Department administers a very diverse and complex brief. The Department has a small cohort of permanent staff, some 245 full time equivalents at present. Its remit includes oversight of very complex policy areas and direct procurement of major services where protection of the State’s interest must be paramount. This situation necessarily requires my Department to procure specialist external professional advice notably in legal, financial and technical areas to enable it to discharge its responsibility to deliver quality services and protect the interests of the State and the taxpayer. Projects for which my Department is responsible include the intensive and nationwide campaign on Digital Switchover, strategic review of oil refining capability, complex telecommunications contracts such as the MANs and the National Broadband Scheme, and oversight of compliance with the Corrib consent conditions (the cost of which is recouped from the developer).

In addition the very limited in–house technical resources in areas such as geoscience, energy and telecommunications makes it imperative to have recourse to a certain amount of external professional services in these areas. Many of these outsourced services relate to specialist, technical, defined term projects which are externally funded. The table below reflects the above context. In procuring these specialised services, my Department always seeks to ensure value for money and the keeping of expenditure to the minimum necessary. In this regard, the Deputy might note that expenditure from my Department’s consultancy services and value for money and policy reviews budget has reduced from €2.249m in 2008 to €1.372m in 2011.

Details on arrangements entered into by bodies under the aegis of the Department are a day to day matter for the bodies themselves. In relation to the competitive tendering for contracts my Department adheres to the relevant EU Regulations and Department of Finance Guidelines on the procurement of goods and services.

Professional fees paid by the Department of Communications Energy and Natural Resources from October 2011 to October 2012

Service Provider

Description of service

Costs €

2B Energy

Consultancy –Meath Tyrone Power Lines

32,285

Aarum Exploration Ltd

Geological data compilation

89,040

Arthur Cox Solicitor

Legal Expenses

71,909

Atlas Services Group

Hydrographic Data Processing-INFOMAR GSI

20,105

Atlas Services Group

Hydrographic Data Processing –INFOMAR GSI

139,955

Beta Analytic Limited

INFOMAR GSI Operations

1,199

Brian Smith

Consultancy –Vessel Skipper- INFOMAR GSI

28,918

Centrestage

Printing and Binding

1,421

Clare Morgan

Geophysical Consultancy

72,765

Client Solutions Ltd

Software Maintenance

122,082

Cloda Ryan

Pensions Advisor

3,469

Compass Informatics Ltd

Provision of ICT Resources

109,199

Compass Informatics Ltd

Geographic Information Systems Services, EC Marine Projects, GSI,

59,313

Conleth Bradley

Moriarty Tribunal legal expenses

22,264

Construction Consultancy Services

Data Entry & Compilation Services, Geoscience Initiatives GSI

47,834

Core International

Software Licensing

42,931

David Fox Associates

Petroleum Engineering Support

192,148

Deloitte & Touche

Procurement Advice

57,974

Diarmuid Rossa Phelan BL

Moriarty Tribunal legal expenses

24,200

Dr Ir Veerle A.I. Huvenne

Research Project Evaluations, INFOMAR, GSI

1,274

Elimark AB

Consultancy –Meath Tyrone Power Lines

38,788

Environ UK Ltd

Corrib Gas Consultancy

200,896

Eoin McGrath

Marine Geoscience Services, INFOMAR GSI

59,307

Espion Intelligence

IT Outsourced Services

6,872

ESRI Ireland

Software Maintenance

245,492

Geo Marine Survey Systems BV

Offshore Data Acquisition, INFOMAR GSI Operations

49,325

Gill Scott

Marine Geoscience Services, INFOMAR GSI Operations

12,176

Grainne O’Shea

Geographic Information Systems Services INFOMAR GSI Consultancy

84,661

Indecon

Griffiths Research Review, GSI

16,940

Indecon

National Broadband Plan

28,167

Irish Observer Network

Survey Vessel Master Services, INFOMAR, GSI

7,109

Janine Guinan

Marine Geoscience Services, EC Marine Projects, GSI

77,299

Jenny Deakin

Hydrogeological Services, Groundwater Source Protection, National Federation of Group Water Schemes.

4,000

Jim Duffy

Exemplar Networks

5,004

John Deasy

Marine Geoscience & Hydrographic Services, Infomar Consultancy

19,188

John L O’Donnell

Moriarty Tribunal legal expenses

33,396

Katherine Knights

Geochemical Consultancy, TELLUS Border Project, GSI

86,054

Keane Offshore Integrity Ltd

Corrib Gas Consultancy

81,971

KPMG

Financial Advisor

48,429

Latinollo Limited

National Analogue Switch Off Campaign

1,193,278

Mason Communications Ltd

National Broadband Scheme

162,737

Magnum Opus Ltd

Broadband Management Services Entity Costs

13,432

Mairead Glennon

Geological Project Management Consultancy, TELLUS Border Project, GSI

63,783

Maria Judge

Marine Geoscience Services, EC Marine Projects, GSI

56,969

Mason Hayes and Curran

Assistance in implementation of National Postcode System

88,250

Medmark Ltd

HR Medical Examinations

350

Mentecplus Integrated Solutions Limited

Software Licensing and Enhancements

7,264

Morrow Communications

Outreach Consultancy, TELLUS Border Project, GSI

51,751

Mouchel Parkman Ireland Ltd

Landslide Susceptibility Mapping, Geoscience Initiatives, GSI

69,525

Neary Marketing

Branding & Marketing, Geoscience Ireland Project, GSI

8,000

Niall Finn

Marine Geological Services, EC Marine Projects, GSI

53,941

O’Connell Agri-Environmental Consultants

Geochemical Data Acquisition, TELLUS Border Project, GSI

297,338

OHH Energy

Consultancy –Meath Tyrone Power Lines

41,122

On Site Vaccination

Health Screening

1,404

PA Consulting Group

Assistance in implementation of National Postcode System

169,407

Peter Cooney

Geographic Information Systems Services, National Groundwater Vulnerability Mapping, GSI

63,031

Peter Conroy

Hydrogeological Services, Groundwater Source Protection Work, Local Authority Public Water Supplies, GSI

2,420

Phelim Lally

Geological Services, National Aggregate potential Map, Geoscience Initiatives, GSI

74,265

Philip O’Reilly

Assistance in implementation of National Postcode System

1,125

Pricewaterhouse Coopers

Financial Advisory Service

49,200

Purvin & Guertz

Consultancy Services: Oil refining study

145,660

Reidy Brophy Ltd

Emergency Exercise for Oil Supply Disruption

7,100

Robert Meehan

National Quaternary Map, Geoscience Initiative, GSI

17,230

Ronan O’Toole

Marine Geoscience & Hydrographic Services, INFOMAR, GSI

90,088

Shane Carey

Geographic Information Systems Services, TELLUS Border Project, GSI

79,409

SLR Consulting Ireland Ltd

Core Store Holdings Review, GSI

39,688

SLR Consulting Ireland Ltd

Geological Services, Shallow Geothermal Resources Project, GSI

60,500

Tierney and Associates

Internal Audit Consultancy

51,744

Tobin Consulting Engineers

National Groundwater Vulnerability Mapping, Geoscience Initiatives, GSI

331,229

Tom Browne

Survey Vessel Master Services, Infomar , GSI

19,111

VBF Technologies

Information Society and eInclusion

32,894

Dr Vincent Gallagher

Geochemistry Services, TELLUS Border Project, GSI

34,526

Versata FZ LLC

Software Licensing

102,795

Waterwise Environmental

Water Sample Analyses, TELLUS Border Project, GSI

89,109

Xodus Group Ltd

Strategic Environmental Assessment

36,667

Broadband Services Provision

Questions (200)

Robert Troy

Question:

200. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the availability of broadband in an area (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45361/12]

View answer

Written answers

The State is not a provider of telecommunication services, except in instances of clear market failure such as in the cases of both the National and Rural Broadband Schemes. Such interventions are always subject to EU State Aid clearance to ensure no unacceptable level of market distortion takes place.

The Rural Broadband Scheme (RBS) was launched last year in recognition of the fact that despite the widespread availability of broadband throughout Ireland, there still remained individual premises that were unable to receive affordable broadband provision. In total, there were 102 applications from persons living in County Westmeath (including 21 from the general area of Ballynacargy) who consented to receive offers of service from Internet Service Providers participating in the Scheme. Offers of service were made to all of these applicants during the period from April to the end of July this year.

The response to date by industry suggests that virtually all eligible applicants under the Scheme are capable of obtaining a broadband service from a supplier using one of the available technology platforms i.e. DSL, fixed or mobile wireless, cable or satellite. Obviously, where a commercial service is shown to be available, the State cannot intervene with a subvention for alternative services as to do so would be a breach of State Aid rules. The combination of private investment and State interventions means that Ireland will meet the EU Commission’s “Digital Agenda for Europe” target of having a basic broadband service available to all areas by 2013.

The Government accepts that the widespread availability of high speed broadband is a key requirement in delivering future economic and social development. With basic broadband services now widely available across Ireland, the challenge is to accelerate the roll out of high speed services. The Government’s National Broadband Plan, which I published recently, aims to radically change the broadband landscape in Ireland by ensuring that high speed services of at least 30Mbps are available to all of our citizens and businesses, well in advance of the EU’s target date of 2020, and that significantly higher speeds are available to as many homes and businesses as possible.

The Plan commits to high speed broadband availability across the country – specifically: 70Mbps – 100Mbps will be available from the commercial market operators to more than half of the population by 2015; at least 40Mbps, and in many cases faster speeds, to at least a further 20% (and potentially as much as 35%) of the population during the lifetime of the Government; and a minimum of 30Mbps for every remaining home and business in the country, also during the lifetime of the Government.

During the preparation of the Plan, the commercial market operators indicated that they expect to provide 70Mbps to 100Mbps services to 50% of the population by 2015. The areas to be provided with those services will be determined by the commercial market operators. One of the first steps in delivering on the 30Mbps and 40Mbps commitments will be the completion of a formal national mapping exercise to determine the exact position in relation to commercial service providers’ existing and planned broadband services throughout the country. Preparatory work has commenced within my Department to expedite this mapping exercise.

The mapping exercise will identify the areas of the country where there is market failure in the provision of high speed broadband services. It will also identify where the market is expected to succeed and fail in the delivery of high speed broadband over the coming years. Until that process is complete, the precise areas of the country which will require State intervention will not be known. I would reiterate however, that the Government remains committed to the delivery of the speeds referred to above, to ensure that all parts of Ireland, including areas such as Ballynacargy, will have at least 30Mbps connectivity.

Water Charges Introduction

Questions (201, 202)

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

201. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he has considered exempting primary and post primary schools from paying water charges. [44982/12]

View answer

Jonathan O'Brien

Question:

202. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he has considered reducing the cost of water charges to primary and post-primary schools. [44983/12]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 201 and 202 together.

I refer to the reply to Question No. 439 of 16 October 2012. The position is unchanged.

Departmental Expenditure

Questions (203)

Michael McGrath

Question:

203. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide in tabular form, in respect of 2011, the number of payments issued by his Department and each agency within the remit of his Department to suppliers in respect of the supply of goods and services; splitting the payments between those issued within 30 days of receipt of the invoice; between 30 and 60 days of receipt of the invoice; between 60 and 90 days of receipt of the invoice; between 90 and 120 days of receipt of the invoice; and in excess of 120 days of receipt of the invoice. [45017/12]

View answer

Written answers

Information in respect of the timing of payments by my Department and relevant agencies since 1 July, 2011 is available on the Department’s website at: http://www.environ.ie/en/Publications/StatisticsandRegularPublications/PromptPayments

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