Written Answers Nos. 444-467
444. Deputy Anne Ferris asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the number of State papers, older than 30 years, that have not been released as a result of exceptions to the 30 year rule; if he will provide a breakdown by year for Department and agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52318/12]
View answerThe position is that I do not have statutory responsibility for the withholding of official records over 30 years. This lies with each Department under the National Archives Act 1986.
445. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will acknowledge the role played by communities and individuals involved in the Arts throughout the country and ensure that there are no further cuts to the Arts Council budget; if he will ensure that a film festival (details supplied) is adequately funded to enable them to continue to run their vibrant and professional programme of events; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52341/12]
View answerGovernment policy on the arts is set out in the Programme for Government . As Minister responsible for the arts and culture sectors, I am committed to securing the best possible funding provision for them during my term of office.
Government policy is to promote and strengthen the arts in all its forms, increase access to and participation in the arts, to make the arts an integral and valued part of our national life, and to maximise the potential for cultural tourism. Primary responsibility for the promotion of the arts at all levels throughout the country is devolved to the Arts Council, which, under the Arts Acts, is independent in its funding decisions. In 2012, the Arts Council received an allocation of over €63 million – a curbing of the budgetary decline of previous years. Under statute I may not intervene in its funding decisions.
The Government appreciates the importance of the arts, culture and the creative industries to both our society and to our economy. I am fully aware of the challenges for those involved in the arts and culture sectors and of the tremendous work they are doing. I am committed to supporting the essential elements of the arts and culture sectors, within the available financial resources and in the light of the evolving budgetary and Estimates processes.
446. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht further to Parliamentary Question No. 147 of 10 November 2012, if he will confirm if the person (details supplied) received at any time other payments or severance payments from the State or State bodies including but not limited to Campus and Stadium Ireland Limited and the National Sports Campus Development Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52718/12]
View answerI am advised that my Department is not aware of any payments of the nature referred to being made to the person in question, other than those in respect of which details were provided in my previous reply to the Deputy (Ref No 147 of 10 October 2012). If, however, the Deputy has any specific issue in this regard that he wishes to bring to my attention, I will be glad to look further at the matter.
The Deputy will appreciate that I have no statutory responsibility in relation to the two bodies to which he makes specific reference in his Question.
447. Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht further to Parliamentary Question No. 327 of 2 October 2012, when payment of bog compensation will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52850/12]
View answerAn application for compensation under the cessation of turf cutting compensation scheme has been received by my Department from the individual referred to in the Deputy’s Question. As outlined in my reply to Question No. 327 of 2 October last, a payment of €1,500 in respect of the first year has been made to the applicant. I am advised that a payment of €1,500 in respect of the second year was made to this applicant in early October and a letter confirming same was sent to her on 9 October 2012.
448. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht when will the scheme for families who wish to raise their children through Irish, Clar Tacaiochta Teaglaigh, be rolled out in County Kerry; the number of many families that have availed of this scheme in each Gaeltacht area to date; his views on whether the scheme should be made more attractive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52890/12]
View answerAn Clár Tacaíochta Teaghlaigh, or the Family Language Support Programme, has as its key objective the strengthening of Irish as a household and community language in the Gaeltacht in accordance with the 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030. It seeks to achieve this objective as a result of various practical measures which will better support Gaeltacht families who are raising their children through Irish or who wish to raise their children through Irish. The specific target groups under the Family Language Support Programme include expectant parents and parents of children of preschool and primary school age.
Insofar as the Kerry Gaeltacht is concerned, I am glad to report that, as a result of a recent meeting between my Department and relevant stakeholders, a number of specific measures are being progressed. These measures include the dispersal of an information leaflet Ag tógáil do pháiste le Gaeilge/Raising your child through Irish via ante-natal services in Tralee General Hospital and relevant health service facilities in the Kerry Gaeltacht. Arrangements are also in hand which will see the umbrella organisation Comhar Naíonraí na Gaeltachta Teo. involved in the dissemination of the leaflet to all preschools operating under its auspices; the introduction of a presentation as part of the ante-natal classes around the issue of language choice. This presentation will include the usage of a short video highlighting the advantages of raising children through Irish which has been developed by my Department as part of the Family Language Support Programme. While my Department is spearheading the programme, it should be noted that Comharchumann Forbartha Chorca Dhuibhne Teo. will play a key role in delivering this part of the programme in the Kerry Gaeltacht as part of their overall remit; and the provision and dispersal of information posters through appropriate public facilities, including libraries and health facilities, in conjunction with Kerry County Council, throughout the Kerry Gaeltacht.
The content of the language support pack developed under the programme has been further developed. Almost 300 support packs have been distributed to date, including 57 support packs to Gaeltacht-based families. It is anticipated that this figure will increase as the roll-out of this part of the overall programme continues.
The Family Language Support Programme also targets Gaeltacht households with primary school children. In order to better support such families – insofar as the Kerry Gaeltacht is concerned – my Department recently sanctioned an allocation of €241,075 to Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne in respect of the Language Assistants Scheme, which this organisation operates on behalf of my Department in the Kerry Gaeltacht. This represents an increase in funding of almost €30,000 for the current school-year and will facilitate the further development of the scheme in order to better support primary school children in the Kerry Gaeltacht with improved opportunities for both acquiring and improving their fluency in the language.
449. Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if the review of all issues relating to the ongoing management of lakes in Muckross Park County Kerry and in particular its boating activities has been completed; the present position regarding the issue of mooring permits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52917/12]
View answerIt is necessary to limit the scale of boating activity on the lakes in Killarney National Park so as to balance recreational use with the conservation imperative of the flora and fauna of the lakes and surrounding areas, and also taking account of obligations under the EU Birds and Habitats Directives. My Department has commenced a review of all issues relating to the ongoing management of the lakes in the Park, including all boating activities, with a view to developing a long-term sustainable strategy for the lakes as an integral part of the Park. It is expected that the review will be completed in the early part of next year.
Private boats on the lakes in the Park are regulated by way of mooring discs. Under a scheme introduced in 1991, mooring discs were issued to all boat owners having a recognised traditional mooring on the lakes, subject to an overall limit on the number of discs issued.
My Department receives numerous requests for mooring spaces but, unfortunately, the demand far exceeds the number of spaces available. My Department does not permit the placing of boats on the lakes on a daily or casual basis, as boats and engines coming from outside the Park carry the risk of spreading invasive alien species such as zebra mussels and various pond weeds. To facilitate others who would wish to use the lakes, persons applying for discs are placed on a waiting list and, as discs become available, they are allocated to those on the waiting list. In addition, a lottery is held annually to allow 20 additional people use the lakes for a year.
450. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if his Department recognises the Gaeltacht and Irish speaking communities as stakeholders in the implementation of the 20 Year Strategy for the Irish Language; if he will put in place an essential structure between the authorities and the Gaeltacht and Irish-language community organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52941/12]
View answerThe Deputy may be aware that under the Gaeltacht Act 2012, the Gaeltacht will in future be based on linguistic criteria instead of on geographic areas which has been the position to date. The Act provides for a statutory language planning process under which language plans will be prepared at community level in areas seeking to achieve statutory recognition. This approach puts communities at the centre of the language planning process since it gives them the opportunity to take ownership of their own plan in their own community.
In addition to Gaeltacht Language Planning Areas, areas located outside the Gaeltacht may achieve statutory recognition as Gaeltacht Service Towns or as Irish Language Networks, subject to fulfilling language planning criteria. Gaeltacht Service Towns are defined as towns in, or adjacent to, Gaeltacht Language Planning Areas which play a significant role in the delivery of services to those areas. Irish Language Networks are defined as areas, located outside Gaeltacht Language Planning Areas, in which there is a basic critical mass of community and State support for the Irish language.
Since Údarás na Gaeltachta is central to community development in the Gaeltacht and provides funding to various community-based organisations, it will assist communities in preparing and implementing language plans in the 19 Gaeltacht Language Planning Areas. Údarás na Gaeltachta, or Foras na Gaeilge, as appropriate, will assist organisations in towns seeking statutory recognition as Gaeltacht Service Towns with the preparation and implementation of language plans, depending on whether the town is located inside or outside the Gaeltacht Language Planning Areas. In addition, Foras na Gaeilge will assist organisations in areas seeking statutory recognition as Irish Language Networks with the preparation and implementation of language plans in those areas.
There will be a need for capacity building in the various community-based organisations involved in the language planning process. Údarás na Gaeltachta, in conjunction with Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge, NUI Galway, are preparing a practical training programme to this end.
451. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his views on whether the Irish language should be protected in the public sector reform currently underway, in the Government's work in general, and if the he should avail of any other opportunity to enhance the status of Irish in their work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52942/12]
View answerAt the outset, I should point out that responsibility for public sector reform in general rests with my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.
The 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030 recognises the need for the development and strengthening of language awareness and language training programmes so that a higher proportion of public service staff are truly functional in Irish and can deliver services in Irish to customers who seek them. In this context, the Strategy proposes that the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and the Public Appointments Service should devise appropriate arrangements over time to increase the cohort of public servants who are functional bilinguals, having regard to the present constraints on public sector recruitment.
The Strategy also provides for these arrangements to be supported by the development, within the existing overall national qualifications framework, of an independent, standards-based accreditation system for Irish language competency within the public service and proposes that a National Diploma in Bilingualism and Language Practice should be designed and offered, so as to support the delivery of quality services to the public in both Irish and English.
It should be noted also that the Official Languages Act 2003 has adopted the language scheme as a core instrument for the provision of bilingual services by the public sector and the Strategy provides for future language schemes to specify the posts within organisations that have an Irish language competency requirement.
Clearly, the implementation of initiatives such as these would significantly advance the objective of enhancing the delivery of public services in Irish in a satisfactory manner. My Department is in discussion with relevant stakeholders, including the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, with a view to progressing this objective, while taking account of the significant resource restraints at this time. As a first step, it has been agreed in principle with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform that my Department will assume responsibility for advancing arrangements that will facilitate the training and proficiency assessment of staff in the use of the Irish language in the civil service and certain areas of the public service. It is expected that arrangements to this end will be put in place from early next year.
452. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the number of applications on a county basis submitted under the 2011 and 2012 cessation of turf cutting compensation scheme to date in 2012; the number of applications for compensation and the number for relocation under each category; the number approved, rejected and on hand in each category; the total moneys paid to date; the estimated cost by year end; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53040/12]
View answerDetails are set out in the following tables on a bog by bog basis, of the number of applications under the cessation of turf cutting compensation scheme received by my Department, the number of applicants opting for financial compensation and the number of applicants expressing an interest in relocation to non-designated bogs. Out of the 2,510 applications received in my Department to date under the cessation of turf cutting compensation scheme, 1,763 applicants have opted for financial compensation and 747 applicants have expressed an interest in relocation.
To date, a total of 2,008 payments and 180 turf deliveries have been made to applicants at a total cost of €3,282,232. It is envisaged that, by year end, the total expenditure by my Department on compensation under the scheme will be of the order of €3.4m.
Payments and turf deliveries have been made on the basis that applicants have indicated in their application forms that they fulfil all the qualifying criteria of the cessation of turf cutting compensation scheme. My Department has been checking, and will be continuing to check, that all of the qualifying criteria of the scheme have been met in each case.
I am advised that at this stage one applicant has been informed that he does not fulfil the qualifying criteria. He has requested a Departmental review of the decision. Arrangements are also being considered by the Peatlands Council to put in place an appeals system where applicants wish to appeal the outcome of a review by the Department. While it may be anticipated that there will be further instances where applicants do not qualify, current priority is being given to processing payments to those who clearly appear to meet the qualifying criteria on the basis of the information provided in their application forms.
3 applicants have been rejected because the areas on which they have been cutting turf are not within a raised bog special area of conservation.
Sites nominated for designation between 1997 and 1999
|
Site Code |
Name |
County |
No. of applications received |
No. opting for financial compensation |
No. expressing an interest in relocation |
|
000006 |
Killyconny Bog (Cloghbally) |
Cavan |
45 |
37 |
8 |
|
000231 |
Barroughter Bog |
Galway |
56 |
35 |
21 |
|
000248 |
Cloonmoylan Bog |
Galway |
73 |
65 |
8 |
|
000285 |
Kilsallagh Bog |
Galway |
30 |
21 |
9 |
|
000296 |
Lisnageeragh Bog and Ballinstack Turlough |
Galway |
20 |
11 |
9 |
|
000297 |
Lough Corrib |
Galway |
83 |
75 |
8 |
|
000301 |
Lough Lurgeen Bog/ Glenamaddy Turlough |
Galway |
29 |
20 |
9 |
|
000326 |
Shankill West Bog |
Galway |
9 |
5 |
4 |
|
000382 |
Sheheree (Ardagh) Bog |
Kerry |
1 |
1 |
0 |
|
000391 |
Ballynafagh Bog |
Kildare |
56 |
27 |
29 |
|
000497 |
Flughany Bog |
Mayo/Sligo |
17 |
14 |
3 |
|
000566 |
All Saints Bog and Esker |
Offaly |
6 |
4 |
2 |
|
000572 |
Clara Bog |
Offaly |
107 |
50 |
57 |
|
000575 |
Ferbane Bog |
Offaly |
3 |
0 |
3 |
|
000580 |
Mongan Bog |
Offaly |
5 |
4 |
1 |
|
000581 |
Moyclare Bog |
Offaly |
25 |
4 |
21 |
|
000582 |
Raheenmore Bog |
Offaly |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
000585 |
Sharavogue Bog |
Offaly |
2 |
2 |
0 |
|
000592 |
Bellanagare Bog |
Roscommon |
171 |
129 |
42 |
|
000597 |
Carrowbehy/Caher Bog |
Roscommon |
3 |
3 |
0 |
|
000600 |
Cloonchambers Bog |
Roscommon |
26 |
21 |
5 |
|
000604 |
Derrinea Bog |
Roscommon |
1 |
1 |
0 |
|
000614 |
Cloonshanville Bog |
Roscommon |
7 |
7 |
0 |
|
000641 |
Ballyduff/Clonfinane Bog |
Tipperary |
2 |
2 |
0 |
|
000647 |
Kilcarren-Firville Bog |
Tipperary |
25 |
22 |
3 |
|
000679 |
Garriskil Bog |
Westmeath |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
001242 |
Carrownagappul Bog |
Galway |
128 |
59 |
69 |
|
001818 |
Lough Forbes Complex |
Roscommon |
12 |
8 |
4 |
|
002110 |
Corliskea/Trien/Cloonfelliv Bog |
Galway/Roscommon |
75 |
62 |
13 |
|
Totals |
1,017 |
689 |
328 |
Sites nominated for designation in 2002
|
Site Code |
Name |
County |
No. of applications received |
No. opting for financial compensation |
No. expressing an interest in relocation |
|
000440 |
Lough Ree |
Roscommon/ Longford/ Westmeath |
275 |
189 |
86 |
|
000595 |
Callow Bog |
Roscommon |
91 |
73 |
18 |
|
002298 |
River Moy |
Mayo/ Roscommon/ Sligo |
65 |
56 |
9 |
|
002331 |
Mouds Bog |
Kildare |
92 |
54 |
38 |
|
002332 |
Coolrain Bog |
Laois |
54 |
45 |
9 |
|
002333 |
Knockacoller Bog |
Laois |
25 |
20 |
5 |
|
002336 |
Carn Park Bog |
Westmeath |
59 |
26 |
33 |
|
002337 |
Crosswood Bog |
Westmeath |
69 |
37 |
32 |
|
002338 |
Drumalough Bog |
Roscommon |
18 |
17 |
1 |
|
002339 |
Ballynamona Bog and Corkip Lough |
Roscommon |
60 |
30 |
30 |
|
002340 |
Moneybeg and Clareisland Bogs |
Meath/ Westmeath |
83 |
71 |
12 |
|
002341 |
Ardagullion Bog |
Longford |
40 |
29 |
11 |
|
002342 |
Mount Hevey Bog |
Meath/ Westmeath |
66 |
28 |
38 |
|
002343 |
Tullaher Lough and Bog |
Clare |
191 |
164 |
27 |
|
002346 |
Brown Bog |
Longford |
6 |
6 |
0 |
|
002347 |
Camderry Bog |
Galway |
14 |
6 |
8 |
|
002348 |
Clooneen Bog |
Longford |
10 |
9 |
1 |
|
002349 |
Corbo Bog |
Roscommon |
66 |
39 |
27 |
|
002350 |
Curraghlehanagh Bog |
Galway |
45 |
26 |
19 |
|
002351 |
Moanveanlagh Bog |
Kerry |
27 |
24 |
3 |
|
002352 |
Monivea Bog |
Galway |
41 |
37 |
4 |
|
002353 |
Redwood Bog |
Tipperary |
76 |
70 |
6 |
|
002354 |
Tullaghanrock Bog |
Roscommon |
1 |
1 |
0 |
|
002356 |
Ardgraigue Bog |
Galway |
19 |
17 |
2 |
|
Totals |
1,493 |
1,074 |
419 |
453. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the number of alternative bogs which have been sourced for turf cutters forced to relocate; the location of each bog; the number of turf cutters who can be accommodated; if works have to be performed on the bogs to facilitate turf cutting; when it is envisaged to carry these works out in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53041/12]
View answerOut of the 2,510 applications received in my Department to date for compensation under the cessation of turf cutting compensation scheme, 747 applicants have expressed an interest in relocation.
Arrangements for the relocation of turf cutters to non-designated bogs have been made as regards a group from Clara Bog in County Offaly and a group from Carrownagappul Bog and Curraghlehanagh Bog special areas of conservation in County Galway. These arrangements involve the groups moving to nearby bogs, with the group from Clara Bog having commenced turf cutting at the relocation site in Killeranny, County Offaly, in June last. Progress has also been made with a view to the relocation of qualifying turf cutters from Ballynafagh Bog special area of conservation in County Kildare in a similar manner. My Department envisages that qualifying turf cutters from Carrownagappul Bog, Curraghlehanagh Bog and Ballynafagh Bog special areas of conservation will be able to commence turf cutting in the relocation sites in the 2013 turf cutting season.
24 qualifying turf cutters have been accommodated at the relocation site in Killeranny. It is envisaged that more will be accommodated at the site for the 2013 cutting season.
69 applicants for compensation under the cessation of turf cutting compensation scheme from Carrownagappul Bog special area of conservation, 19 applicants from Curraghlehanagh Bog special area of conservation, and 29 applicants from Ballynafagh Bog special area of conservation have expressed an interest in relocation to non-designated bogs.
I understand that works to facilitate turf cutting are well advanced in all relocation sites with the exception of that for qualifying turf cutters from Ballynafagh Bog special area of conservation. It is anticipated that works will also be required at this site and that these works will commence in early 2013.
I am advised that of the remaining 49 raised bog special areas of conservation, potential relocation sites have been identified for a further 30 bogs and work is ongoing on identifying and investigating potential relocation sites. Relocation is unlikely to be required or is likely to be small scale for another 15 raised bog special areas of conservation due, for example, to the small number of turf cutters that have been active on these sites.
The Deputy will appreciate that relocation is a very complex process, in terms of investigating suitable sites for turf quality and quantity, the infrastructure/drainage works required, establishing the number who can be accommodated on the site, the cost and feasibility of land purchase or lease, and possible planning and Environmental Impact Assessment requirements. Accordingly, it will only be possible to bring this process to a conclusion over time in respect of all the relocation sites.
454. Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the position regarding the number of new State agencies, forums and task forces that have been established in 2012; the number of new employees there are as a result of this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53694/12]
View answerI can advise the Deputy that no new State bodies/agencies have been created from within my Department's Vote Group during 2012. With regard to other forums and task forces referred to in the Deputy's Question, the relevant groups that have been established since 1 January 2012 are referenced. I am assuming that it is not intended that routine internal committees or working groups established by my Department to support the delivery of its goals be included:
- My Department was instrumental in establishing a task force with regard to the 'Historic Towns Initiative' in 2012. Fáilte Ireland, the Heritage Council and representatives from the relevant local authorities are represented;
- In April 2012, responsibility for commemorative events transferred from the Department of the Taoiseach to my Department, which now has responsibility for the All-Party Oireachtas Group on Commemorations and the Expert Advisory Group on Commemorations;
- A Departmental/Bord na Móna Working Group was established this year in the context of the relocation of turf cutters to non-designated bogs. No new employees have resulted from the establishment of these groups.
455. Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position is in relation to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland better energy homes scheme and better energy warmer homes scheme for energy efficient works; his plans to change the above grants; his plans to introduce a replacement scheme if a person has been approved this year and has six months to carry out the work; if there are any plans to change this time frame; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52716/12]
View answer461. Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to extend the free home insulation scheme or make home heating grants more accessible to middle income earners who are often very financially stretched; his plans to allow home owners insulate their homes and pay off the bills over a number of years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52939/12]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 455 and 461 together.
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers the Better Energy Homes and the Better Energy Warmer Homes schemes under the Better Energy Programme. The scheme is a demand-led programme and the Government has committed €76.146 million in Exchequer funding to the programme in 2012.
The Better Energy Homes scheme provides financial assistance for improving energy performance of older homes, built any time before 2006. The scheme enables homeowners to save money, while improving comfort and reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions. Fixed grants are provided towards the cost of a range of measures including attic insulation, wall insulation, heating systems upgrades, solar thermal panels and accompanying Building Energy Rating (BER).
The Better Energy Warmer Homes scheme delivers a range of energy efficiency measures to households that are vulnerable to energy poverty. The scheme is delivered through a combination of SEAI appointed Community Based Organisations (CBOs), augmented by a panel of private contractors in order to ensure national coverage. Measures available include draught proofing, attic insulation, lagging jackets for hot water tanks, low energy light bulbs and cavity wall insulation.
The Programme for Government includes a commitment to roll out a Pay-As-You-Save (PAYS) retrofit scheme after 2013, to replace the Exchequer funding currently being provided to the Better Energy Programme. The PAYS concept is an innovative financing mechanism that would allow consumers to finance energy efficient upgrades. This should allow consumers to avail of energy efficiency measures, including measures to insulate dwellings, using the money that they would have spent on their energy bill. The PAYS project team has commenced and is working on bringing a detailed design to Government in summer 2013.
However, at this point in time, I have no plans to make any changes to the grants provided under the Better Energy Homes and Better Energy Warmer Homes schemes or to amend how the schemes are currently administered.
456. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide an update on the implementation of Warmer Homes: A Strategy for Affordable Energy in Ireland; the progress made on implementing its key objectives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52170/12]
View answerThe Affordable Energy Strategy was published in November 2011 and developed by the Inter-Departmental/Agency Group on Affordable Energy (IDGAE) as part of the Department’s 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. This programme is a key element of the Affordable Energy Strategy. The energy efficiency measures, which it funds, are targeted at low income families and will make a lasting impact on fuel poverty in the case of individuals benefiting under the scheme. Exchequer funding of €23.647 million has been allocated to this programme in 2012. The scheme has addressed 87,789 fuel poor homes since 2000 of which 7,401 have been delivered since the start of 2012 to the end of October. So far this year, over €9 million has been spent under Better Energy: Warmer Homes.
There are forty-eight actions identified in the strategy that are being implemented over the life-time of the report (3 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. Work is ongoing by the IDGAE on the implementation of all the actions contained in the strategy.
457. Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason the DS3 process launched in 2008 and in view of our obligations in the provision of wind energy has not proceeded; when we may expect the document from Éirgrid to be published which was expected June 2012. [52609/12]
View answerThe multi-year, multi-stakeholder programme for Delivering a Secure, Sustainable Electricity System (DS3) was launched by EirGrid in 2011. The DS3 programme is about developing solutions to the challenges associated with increasing levels of renewable generation, particularly with regard to secure power system operation, as we work to achieve the 2020 renewable targets.
The DS3 programme brings together many different strands, including development of financial incentives for better plant performance, and development of operational policies and system tools to use the portfolio to the best of its capabilities. Standards for wind farms and conventional plant are also being reviewed to give enhanced operational flexibility for the future.
A central aspect of the DS3 programme is the System Services Review. System Services are products, other than energy, that are required for the continuous, secure operation of the power system. The System Services Review is being carried out to identify the new system services that are needed to complement the transition towards a power system with high levels of wind generation. To date, two public consultations have been held related to System Services; a third public consultation is expected in the coming months. The exact timing of the consultation will be determined by the Single Electricity Market Committee (SEMC).
It is important to note that the DS3 programme involves a variety of different stakeholders, including the Distribution System Operators, Regulatory Authorities, Conventional Generators and Renewable Generators, as well as the TSOs.
458. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the impact of the key findings of the World Energy Outlook Report on Ireland for the period 2013/2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52706/12]
View answerThe 2012 edition of the World Energy Outlook was published on 12 November 2012. It highlights the global nature of world energy markets and that no country is an energy island. It re-affirms the requirement for a sustainable global energy system and highlights, inter alia, the vital role that energy efficiency and renewable energy will play in meeting global energy demands and reducing carbon emissions. My officials are considering the findings of the report, which will inform the development of the new energy policy framework.
The Government’s priority energy policy objectives are to ensure secure, sustainable and competitive energy supply for the economy and for consumers. The energy regulatory framework for energy markets must also reflect and address evolving energy policy challenges and deliver compliance with the requirements of both EU and national energy legislation.
The overriding objectives of Irish energy policy remain consistent security of supply, competitiveness and sustainability and will continue to be the pillars of energy policy and are generally consistent with the findings of the World Energy Outlook.
459. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if the prospective 4G service will cover the whole of the Republic of Ireland in view of the reports that there may only be 10% nationwide 4G coverage by 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52707/12]
View answerThe management of the radio spectrum is a statutory function of the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) under the Communications Regulation Act, 2002 as amended.
ComReg’s recently held auction awarded spectrum rights in the 800 MHz, 900 MHz and 1800MHz for the period 2013 to 2030. ComReg’s Information Notice, available on the ComReg website www.comreg.ie , sets out the population coverage obligations that apply to these licences. In this regard it requires that all licence holders must attain and maintain a minimum coverage of 70% of the population within 3 years.
The Government’s recently-published National Broadband Plan 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 during the lifetime of the Government and 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.
One of the first steps in delivering on the commitments outlined in the National Broadband Plan will be the completion of a formal national mapping exercise to identify commercial service providers’ where existing and planned broadband services will be rolled out throughout the country. Preparatory work has commenced within my Department to expedite this task.
The mapping exercise will identify the areas of the country where there is likely to be market failure in the provision of high speed broadband services and where State intervention will be required. Rollout will be targeted to commence in 2014, when it is hoped that the mapping, State Aids and procurement processes are complete and when the current contract for the National Broadband Scheme expires. I would reiterate the key commitment of 30 Mbps being available to all citizens and business as referred to above.
460. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the criticism that existing Public Service Multiplex stations are being underused especially by RTE, TG4 and TG3; if any other applicants have been encouraged such as the Irish Film Board; if a third MUX will now go ahead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52708/12]
View answerThere is currently a single multiplex in operation on the SAORVIEW service. This provides access to eight TV channels including a HD channel, plus 10 radio stations. This multiplex is not underused.
The Broadcasting Act 2009 provides that a second multiplex could be operated by RTÉ in the event that additional capacity is required. This is intended to provide for HD versions of the 4 public service channels, an Irish film channel and an Oireachtas channel. Any additional capacity on the multiplex could be made available for other TV services.
There are substantial costs associated with the development and ongoing operation of new TV services and the development of these services is a matter for the broadcasters themselves.
462. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the time frame in which he will ensure that there is an adequate broadband provision throughout rural Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52964/12]
View answerThe 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 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, nor is it possible to set out a definitive timeframe for the roll out of services.
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 will have at least 30Mbps connectivity in the shortest possible time.
463. Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the number of new State agencies, forums and task forces that have been established in 2012; the number of new employees there are as a result of this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53695/12]
View answerI wish to advise the Deputy that I have not established any new State Agencies, forums or taskforces this year.
The Next Generation Networks (NGN) Taskforce completed its work in 2012 and the National Broadband Plan for Ireland, which was published recently, is informed by the findings of the report of the NGN Taskforce. The NGN Taskforce involved no additional staff.
464. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to restructure road tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52932/12]
View answer468. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government with regard to proposed restructuring of road tax, if he will ensure that any changes will not destabilise the market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53066/12]
View answer477. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he has considered introducing sub-categories to the current motor tax bands, which would see for example, band A sub divided into sections reflecting the car size, with larger cars paying more tax. [52527/12]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 464, 468 and 477 together.
A review of options for improvement in Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) and motor tax revenues in future years was announced on Budget day, 6 December 2011. Interested parties were invited to make submissions regarding the proposed revision in the current system of VRT and motor tax to adjust CO2 bands and rates in line with technological advances in motor vehicles while maintaining a positive environmental incentive to reduce transport emissions.
The public consultation period ran to 1 March 2012. Submissions were received from motoring representative organisations, motor dealers and other stakeholders in the motoring industry, and also from private individuals. My Department and the Department of Finance have considered the submissions and possible options and the outcome of the review will be announced in the context of Budget 2013.
465. Deputy Arthur Spring asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the proposed property tax will be collected and spent locally by local authorities, or if it will be collected by the central Exchequer and then redistributed to local authorities. [52949/12]
View answer466. Deputy Arthur Spring asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the way he plans to deal with the inequalities in revenues that will accrue to local authorities from the proposed property tax, in view of large differences in average home values in different local authority areas. [52950/12]
View answer467. Deputy Arthur Spring asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government in the context of the proposed property tax which will be the primary source of revenue for local authorities, the extent to which central Government will provide supplementary funding for local authorities whose budgets are in a deficit situation. [52959/12]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 465 to 467, inclusive, together.
The EU/IMF Programme of Financial Support for Ireland contains a commitment to introduce a property tax for 2012. The Programme reflects the need, in the context of the State's overall financial position, to put the funding of locally-delivered services on a sound financial footing, improve accountability and better align the cost of providing services with the demand for such services. It was considered that, in light of the complex issues involved, a local property tax would take time to introduce and accordingly to meet the requirements in the EU/IMF Programme, the Government decided to introduce a household charge in 2012 as an interim measure. This was done via the Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011.
An appropriate broadening of the revenue base for local government will be achieved through the household charge and the forthcoming full local property tax. Income from the household charge and from a future local property tax is critical in ensuring that local authorities have the necessary resources to continue to deliver services to their communities.
An independently-chaired Inter-Departmental Expert Group was established earlier this year to consider the structures and modalities for an equitable Local Property Tax to replace the Household Charge. The Group submitted its report and proposals will be brought to Government which will decide on the exact details of implementation .
The Government has decided that the Local Property Tax will be collected and administered by the Revenue Commissioners.
