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Tuesday, 5 Feb 2013

Written Answers Nos 1-160

Private Residential Tenancies Board Remit

Questions (136)

Mary Lou McDonald

Question:

136. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to give support to the work of the Private Residential Tenancies Board in view of the legislative drive to increase its remit and workload. [5549/13]

View answer

Written answers

The Residential Tenancies Act 2004 sets out the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants in the private rented residential sector. The Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) was established as an independent statutory body under the Act to operate a national tenancy registration system and to resolve disputes between landlords and tenants in the sector.

The Residential Tenancies (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill 2012 is currently before the Oireachtas. It will, inter alia , extend the remit of the Act and of the Board to the approved housing body sector and will give legal effect to the administrative merger of the Rent Tribunal and the PRTB. It will also streamline and simplify aspects of the Act to assist the Board in meeting its service obligations and in addressing the additional demands associated with the proposed expansion of its remit.

Demand for the PRTB’s services has grown significantly in recent years reflecting the very sizable growth in the sector in the most recent intercensal period. While the PRTB is a self-financing body, it is however necessary in the current constrained economic environment that it contributes to the overall reduction in public expenditure, including in regard to numbers employed. This presents obvious challenges for the Board , which has responded by pursuing a range of outsourcing, shared service and other modernisation initiatives. Building on what has been achieved to date I am confident that the Board, in its future legislative context, will continue fully to discharge its statutory obligations in an independent, fair and efficient manner.

My Department continues to keep the resources available to the PRTB under close review and engages regularly with the Board on this and other matters.

Question No. 137 answered with Question No. 135.

Mortgage to Rent Scheme Application Numbers

Questions (138)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

138. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of persons who have so far availed of the mortgage to rent scheme; if he will provide a breakdown on a local authority basis; the number currently seeking to avail of this process; and his plans to widen the parameters to enable more persons avail of the scheme. [5554/13]

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Written answers

On foot of the recommendations of the Keane Report on mortgage arrears the Government launched a mortgage to rent scheme on a pilot basis in February 2012. This scheme was extended nationally in June 2012, targeting those low income families whose mortgage situation is unsustainable and where there is little or no prospect of a significant change in circumstances in the foreseeable future. The scheme ensures that the family remains in their home, while ownership is transferred to an approved housing body who in turn rent it to the original owners. Eligibility requirements are in line with other forms of social housing support. To date, 671 cases have been submitted by lenders. Of these, 332 are currently being processed, and 181 borrowers have been engaged with or are in the process of being engaged with by the lender. Sales have been agreed on 16 properties, and 8 of these have now been completed. A breakdown of these completed transactions by local authority area is set out in the table I am circulating with the official report.

The numbers of completed transactions is low but significant progress has been made. All of the main lenders and so called sub-prime lenders are fully engaged and have instituted the necessary internal processes. It is also important to bear in mind that the transition from being a homeowner to a social housing tenant is a major one for families. Mortgage to rent or other such interventions cannot be rushed for any party. For example, the process provides a 60 day decision period and a 28 day cooling off period within the timeframe of the scheme. My Department estimates that the overall timeframe per case from start to completed transaction will be up to eight months. This compares favourably to the timeframes in other jurisdictions operating similar schemes.

Table outlining Mortgage To Rent transactions by local authority area:

County

Submitted by Lender

Being Process

Engaging with Borrower

Social Housing Support

Sale Agreed

Completed

Carlow

16

9

2

1

0

0

Cavan

20

3

0

0

0

0

Clare

14

7

3

0

0

0

Cork City

13

11

6

2

0

0

Cork County

43

14

8

2

1

0

Dublin City

63

36

24

4

3

2

Dublin Dún Laoghaire

9

5

2

1

0

0

Dublin Fingal

37

22

16

1

1

1

Dublin South

40

24

10

4

3

1

Donegal

12

2

1

1

0

0

Galway City

1

1

0

0

0

0

Galway County

25

9

3

0

0

0

Kerry

12

5

2

0

0

0

Kildare

33

29

12

3

2

1

Kilkenny

14

9

7

1

1

1

Laois

14

5

5

1

0

0

Leitrim

2

1

1

0

0

0

Limerick City

14

10

6

0

0

0

Limerick County

22

7

3

2

1

0

Longford

9

2

1

0

0

0

Louth

31

19

12

3

1

0

Mayo

12

5

2

0

0

0

Meath

59

37

18

4

1

0

Monaghan

7

2

0

0

0

0

Offaly

19

10

5

0

0

0

Roscommon

10

2

0

0

0

0

Sligo

4

2

0

0

0

0

Tipperary North

15

5

3

2

1

1

Tipperary South

19

6

2

0

0

0

Waterford City

9

3

2

1

0

0

Waterford County

8

5

2

0

0

0

Westmeath

19

12

9

2

0

0

Wexford

27

12

7

1

0

0

Wicklow

20

15

4

1

1

1

-

672

346

178

37

16

8

Proposed Legislation

Questions (139)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

139. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to divide the proposed new legal regime for climate policy into two pieces of legislation, namely the low carbon Bill and the climate change Bill as referenced by the Taoiseach on 22 January 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5077/13]

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Written answers

I refer to the reply to Priority Question No. 132 on today’s order paper. As I stated in that reply, I see a central role for the Oireachtas Joint Committee on the Environment, Culture and the Gaeltacht in the policy development process. That is why, in drafting the Programme for the development of national policy and legislation, I earmarked a significant period of time for the Joint Committee to reflect on the outline Heads of the Bill and the policy analysis undertaken by the NESC Secretariat. In view of the short period of additional time which I am taking before issuing the outline Heads of the Low Carbon Development Bill , I appreciate that the Committee may need some extra time to complete its consideration of the issues and submit its report , and I will raise this matter with the Chairman when I am referring the outline Heads to the Committee. As I indicated in the policy development Programme, the Committee’s report will be a key input to the Government's deliberations on finalising a national policy position on transition to a low carbon future and the introduction of climate legislation. I look forward to engaging with the Committee in its work and to receiving its report in due course.

Leader Programmes Funding

Questions (140, 157, 172)

Michelle Mulherin

Question:

140. Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will put in place interim arrangements for the acceptance and processing of new applications for Leader funding for the north-east Mayo area pending the completion of the investigation of possible governance issues in Mayo North East Leader Partnership which has been unable to operate the Leader programme over the past year thus denying rural development funds to the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5479/13]

View answer

Micheál Martin

Question:

157. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when permission will be granted to the north-east Mayo integrated company to approve Leader projects again; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5592/13]

View answer

Michelle Mulherin

Question:

172. Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will put in place interim arrangements for the acceptance and processing of new applications for Leader funding for the north-east Mayo area pending the completion of the investigation of possible governance issues in Mayo North East Leader Partnership which has been unable to operate the Leader programme over the past year thus denying rural development funds to the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5078/13]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Question Nos. 140, 172 and 157 together.

Mayo North East Leader Partnership is the Local Action Group contracted by my Department to deliver both the Rural Development Programme and the Local Community Development Programme to the North Mayo area. On foot of correspondence received in 2011 regarding a possible governance issue at Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Company, a comprehensive investigation into the issues outlined was instigated. This proved to be a very complex investigation and, on foot of its initial findings and in the context of the Department’s responsibility to ensure that RDP funding is delivered in an efficient and effective way, a decision was made to suspend project approvals by the Partnership on 7 March 2012. However, the issuing of payments to eligible approved applications is progressing as normal.

The Final Report has been provided to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Managing Authority for the RDP. The Managing Authority has subsequently reported the findings to the European Commission and the external accreditation auditors (Deloitte). The findings of the investigation have also been reported to both the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation and the Standards in Public Office Commission and consideration of these findings will be subject to the relevant processes in these bodies. The Report has been considered in my own Department and an Action Plan has been agreed with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. My Department has also agreed a series of actions to be taken by Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Company. In the coming period, if and when these actions are completed to the satisfaction of my Department, and adherence to all other regulatory and governance requirements is assured , the suspension of project approvals in Mayo North East Leader Partnerships will be reviewed. It is critical that the funds delivered through the LEADER elements of the RDP are managed in an efficient and effective way.

While we must ensure correct and proper management and implementation of the LEADER elements of the RDP from both a regulatory and value for money perspective, my Department’s objective is to conclude the processes associated with this investigation with a view to reinstating access to RDP funds to the citizens of Mayo North East, while ensuring regulatory compliance, value for money and maximum impact for the people of North Mayo.

Fire Safety Regulations

Questions (141)

Joe Higgins

Question:

141. Deputy Joe Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that on foot of evidence of non-compliance with fire safety regulations in an estate (details supplied) requests have been made on behalf of individual house and apartment owners by TDs and a fire safety specialist for an enforcement notice from Dublin City Council building control, the city manager, city engineer and chief fire officer on 12 December 2012 to enable opening up to inspection critical sections of files regarding the construction of the complex to establish the full extent of the non-compliance with particular reference to the potential fire spread risk; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5560/13]

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Written answers

Compliance with the building regulations is first and foremost the responsibility of the building owner and developer. Where defects occur remediation is a matter between the parties, and their agents and insurers, subject to any contractual arrangements that have been entered into. Enforcement is a matter for the building control authority in whose functional area the relevant building is situated. As Minister I have no role in relation to enforcement and cannot interfere in individual cases.

In addition to their powers under the Building Control Acts, local authorities also have extensive powers of inspection and enforcement under the Fire Services Acts and the Planning and Development Acts. I am aware of such powers having been used to good effect on a number of occasions in recent times where concerns have arisen in relation to a number of developments, including Belmayne . I expect local authorities to continue to use all of the powers currently available to them to respond appropriately in such cases, and in particular in those circumstance where building defects and fire safety concerns have been visited on vulnerable residents through no fault of their own.

I understand that Dublin City Council will respond directly to the correspondence referred to in the question within the next week. I have asked my Department to continue to liaise closely with the City Council in relation to the on-going programme of remedial works being undertaken at Belmayne.

Water Services Registrations

Questions (142, 152, 159, 160, 170, 171, 188, 196, 198, 210)

Tom Hayes

Question:

142. Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide an update on the Water Services (Amendment) Act to include the numbers and percentages of domestic waste water systems and septic tanks that have been registered in each county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5067/13]

View answer

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

152. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide an update on the implementation of the Water Services (Amendment) Act 2012 to include the numbers and overall percentages of septic tanks that have been registered on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5074/13]

View answer

Simon Harris

Question:

159. Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding the implementation of the Water Services (Amendment) Act 2012; the numbers of septic tanks that have been registered on a county basis; the percentage this represents of overall septic tanks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5075/13]

View answer

Joe Carey

Question:

160. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide a breakdown on a county basis of registrations for septic tanks in accordance with the Water Services (Amendment) Act 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5073/13]

View answer

Heather Humphreys

Question:

170. Deputy Heather Humphreys asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the total number of septic tanks that have been registered to date on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5072/13]

View answer

Tony McLoughlin

Question:

171. Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide information on the total numbers of septic tanks and other similar type of systems that are currently registered locally and nationally; and the timeframe for when the inspection process will begin. [5071/13]

View answer

Martin Heydon

Question:

188. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide an update on the implementation of the Water Services (Amendment) Act 2012 to include the numbers and overall percentages of septic tanks that have been registered on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5405/13]

View answer

Tony McLoughlin

Question:

196. Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide an update in the implementation of the Water Services Amendment Act 2012. [5070/13]

View answer

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

198. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government in view of the fact that the deadline for registration of septic tanks is 1 February 2013, the reason local authorities, including Meath County Council, have had no details yet from his Department about the grant scheme and are unable to give information or application forms to members of the public. [5412/13]

View answer

Mick Wallace

Question:

210. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the approximate cost of remedial works on septic tanks; the percentage of tanks that he intends to inspect; the timescale for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5545/13]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 142, 152, 159, 160, 170, 171, 188, 196, 198 and 210 together.

The Water Services (Amendment) Act 2012 requires householders whose properties are served by on-site wastewater treatment systems to register their system with their local authority. The deadline for householders to register was 1 February. At the passing of that deadline, applications in respect of the on-site wastewater treatment systems of 373,954 owners, who have registered online, by post or in person at their local authority offices, had been processed and approximately 25,000 additional registration applications were awaiting processing by the bureau operated by the Local Government Management Agency. I propose to circulate with the Official Report a tabular statement setting out details of the number of processed registrations for each County and City Council by 1 February 2013.

The 2012 Act also provides that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will make a National Inspection Plan for domestic wastewater treatment systems. I expect that the National Inspection Plan will be published shortly, and that inspections will commence in the middle of this year. Inspections will be carried out by appropriately qualified local authority staff who will be appointed as inspectors. A training course for inspectors is currently being finalised and it will be rolled out to all local authorities in the coming weeks.

The extent and cost of the remediation works that may be required will depend on the condition of the individual system and the extent of the risk to public health and the environment. Inspections carried out by Cavan County Council, based on by-laws adopted by that authority in 2004, revealed an initial failure rate of approximately 25% of on-site systems, with remediation costs averaging €2,500. However, the enactment of the by-laws and the related public information campaigns by Cavan County Council have increased householders’ awareness of the necessity to operate and maintain their systems correctly and the failure rate has, over the intervening years, decreased to approximately 15%. At this stage it is not possible to indicate how many systems will require remediation. However, the remedial action required on foot of an inspection of a septic tank will, in many cases, only involve householders having to de-sludge their tanks more frequently.

I recently announced my intention to introduce a grant scheme to provide financial assistance to households whose septic tanks and other domestic wastewater treatment systems require remediation or upgrading following inspection. The scheme will apply to treatment systems which have been registered by the due date of 1 February 2013 and which are deemed to require remediation having failed an inspection carried out under the 2012 Act. The grant payable will depend on the cost of the work necessary and the income of the household concerned, and the scheme will provide a higher level of support to households on lower incomes. Full details of the scheme will be defined in regulations which I will make in advance of inspections commencing this year.

Registrations processed as of 4 February 2013

WaterServices Authority

Estimated total number of on-site waste water treatment systems

Number of on-site waste water treatment systems registered

Number of on-site waste water treatment systems registered as a percentage of the estimated total number

Carlow Co. Council

7190

5,369

74.0

Cavan Co. Council

14477

12,064

83.0

Clare Co. Council

19769

17,579

88.0

Cork City Council

586

496

84.0

Cork Co. Council

57993

39,309

67.0

Donegal Co. Council

32955

20,284

61.0

Dublin City Council

2718

102

3.0

Dún Laoghaire-

Rathdown Co. Council

1928

989

51.0

Fingal Co. Council

5213

2,821

54.0

Galway City Council

1145

645

56.0

Galway Co. Council

42161

30,895

73.0

Kerry Co. Council

28277

28,153

99.0

Kildare Co. Council

16795

12,165

72.0

Kilkenny Co. Council

15368

11,705

76.0

Laois Co. Council

11309

8,557

75.0

Leitrim Co. Council

7005

6,149

87.0

Limerick City Council

420

205

48.0

Limerick Co. Council

24207

17,949

74.0

Longford Co. Council

7556

5,849

77.0

Louth Co. Council

11633

7,530

64.0

Mayo Co. Council

26659

22,586

84.0

Meath Co. Council

21687

16,159

74.0

Monaghan Co. Council

12065

7,423

61.0

North Tipperary

Co. Council

12342

9,931

80.0

Offaly Co. Council

11170

8,286

74.0

Roscommon County Council

14297

11,973

83.0

Sligo Co. Council

11192

9,196

82.0

South Dublin County Council

2266

1,085

47.0

South Tipperary County Council

14442

10,971

75.0

Waterford City Council

488

343

70.0

Waterford Co. Council

11466

7,655

66.0

Westmeath Co. Council

12165

9,506

78.0

Wexford Co. Council

26267

20,282

77.0

Wicklow Co. Council

12070

9,743

80.0

Homeless Persons Supports

Questions (143, 595)

Dessie Ellis

Question:

143. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the measures he is taking to provide affordable housing specifically for those moving out of homelessness and emergency accommodation in view of the large numbers who are stuck in emergency accommodation due to a shortage of housing. [5557/13]

View answer

Terence Flanagan

Question:

595. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the steps he is taking to address the problem of homelessness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5830/13]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 143 and 595 together.

The Government’s Housing Policy Statement, published in June 2011, clearly identifies that the priority for Government will be to meet the most acute needs of households applying for social housing support. I am determined to ensure that the social housing programme is framed in a manner which optimises the delivery of social housing and the return for the resources invested. To achieve this it is essential that we tailor the use of available Exchequer supports to prevailing conditions and explore the full range of solutions to address housing needs.

In relation to homelessness, my Department’s role involves the provision of a national framework of policy, legislation and funding to underpin the role of housing authorities in addressing homelessness at local level. Statutory responsibility in relation to the provision of accommodation and related services for homeless persons rests with the housing authorities. The Programme for Government committed to reviewing the homeless strategy, The Way Home: A Strategy to Address Adult Homelessness in Ireland 2008-2013 and to implementing a housing-led approach to homelessness. Work on the review is complete and I intend to issue a policy statement on homelessness very shortly. That statement will take account of demands on existing housing and will assess how best to continue providing services in a manner consistent with the elimination of existing homelessness and to ensure more effective prevention strategies. I will be indicating what I expect from housing authorities and other stakeholders in accelerating progress towards realising the ambition of eliminating involuntary long-term homelessness.

Air Pollution

Questions (144)

Joe Higgins

Question:

144. Deputy Joe Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government since the European Environmental Agency report was published in November 2011 entitled Revealing the Costs of Air Pollution from Industrial Facilities in Europe reporting damage caused by plants in Ireland to the environment and human health at an estimated cost of between €0.7 billion and €1 billion, the persons who have been made accountable for these breaches. [5561/13]

View answer

Written answers

Industrial installations operating in Ireland are subject to the licensing, monitoring and enforcement requirements of the Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) regime. The activities of companies operating with an IPPC licence are monitored by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure that the terms of their licences are respected, including in relation to emissions.  Under the EPA Acts 1992 to 2011, I am precluded from exercising any power or control in relation to the performance by the EPA of its licensing functions in specific cases.

The EEA study referenced in the question did not assess whether the emissions of a given installation are consistent with its legal requirements. Monitoring undertaken by the EPA has shown that total emissions from IPPC licensed installations are consistently below the levels prescribed to ensure adequate protection of human health and the environment.

Local Authority Housing Maintenance

Questions (145)

Dessie Ellis

Question:

145. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the action he is taking to help local authorities to work to prioritise the retrofitting of their housing stock to improve insulation and energy conservation focussing on older homes and those designated for senior citizens. [5559/13]

View answer

Written answers

In line with overall national policy which promotes a reduction in energy use, the enhancement of energy efficiency standards remains a priority within my Department’s overall strategy for the improvement of local authority housing. Under my Department’s Social Housing Investment Programme, local authorities are allocated funding each year in respect of a range of measures to improve the standard and overall quality of their social housing stock. The programme includes a retrofitting measure aimed at improving the energy efficiency of older apartments and houses by reducing heat loss through the fabric of the building. Over the past two years, the retrofitting measure focussed on improvement works to vacant houses with the objective of returning as many as possible of these dwellings to productive use and combating dereliction and associated anti-social behaviour. Over that period some €52.5 million was recouped to local authorities in respect of improvements carried out to 4,774 dwellings.

I am currently reviewing the terms of the energy retrofitting measure for 2013 with a view to targeting grants at those older houses and apartments which lack adequate insulation and draught proofing. Local authorities should pay particular attention to dwellings which accommodate older people and people with disabilities. My Department will issue revised guidelines to local authorities in the context of the capital allocations under the housing programme for 2013. Work is currently under way in this regard. My Department requested local authorities to submit details of their capital requirements under the various measures within the housing programme. The information is being assessed at present. I intend to advise individual authorities of their capital allocations as soon as possible.

Question No. 146 answered with Question No. 135.

Local Government Reform

Questions (147)

Pádraig MacLochlainn

Question:

147. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government further to his statement in Putting People First (details supplied), the progress made in devolving power to elected members; the powers which will be devolved from managers to elected members; and the time frame for this process. [5408/13]

View answer

Written answers

One of the fundamental aims of the Government’s Action Programme for Effective Local Government is to bring decision making closer to citizens and to create more meaningful and responsive local democracy.

It is the objective of the Action Programme to assert the primacy of the elected members and to rebalance the role of the council in relation to the present position of county manager. Accordingly, in reviewing these powers and functions, my preferred position will be to devolve power to elected members. This will include a change in the relationship between manager and members to one of chief executive and “board of directors”, appropriate to a modern system of administration.

In relation to the reserved functions of elected members, a number of new reserved functions are specified in the Action Programme, for example, the adoption of economic development plans, service plans, and local and community plans. In addition, the scope for further extension of the reserved functions of elected members of local authorities, and the assignment of these functions as between the county and municipal district levels, will be fully reviewed in the context of further development and implementation of the reform programme. The local government reform programme is a high priority for Government as a key element of the overall reform agenda, and while I am not in a position to provide definitive timing details for the legislation, it will be brought forward for enactment in good time before the 2014 local elections.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Questions (148)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

148. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the steps he will take to ensure that non-ETS emissions targets for 2013 and 2014 under the EU's 2020 emissions reduction plan will be met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5076/13]

View answer

Written answers

From the annual greenhouse gas emission and projection data published by the Environmental Protection Agency, I am satisfied that Ireland is on course to comply in 2013 and 2014 with the requirements of EU law on the effort of Member States to reduce their emissions in order to allow the European Union as a whole to meet its reduction commitments in the period to 2020.

Pyrite Resolution Board Membership

Questions (149)

Clare Daly

Question:

149. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his response to questions regarding the proposed role for HomeBond on the Pyrite Resolution Board; and if he will detail HomeBond's experience, if any, in remediating houses with structural damage caused by heave-inducing pyrite and in the insurance loss adjusting. [5565/13]

View answer

Written answers

There are no proposals to include a representative from HomeBond on the Pyrite Resolution Board. HomeBond is a private company and its operation is a matter for its management and Board of Directors. My Department does not have any specific details in relation to its activities or its insurance loss adjusting experience. However, my Department is aware that up until August , 2011 HomeBond was involved in pyrite remediation work and over the years since its inception it has built up significant experience dealing with claims for structural damage under the terms of its warranty scheme.

Rural Recreation Promotion

Questions (150)

Brendan Smith

Question:

150. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans for the further development of the rural recreation sector in 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5582/13]

View answer

Written answers

My Department continues to engage with up to 12 Local Development Companies where Service Level Agreements are in place to deliver a range of rural recreation services , including the continued implementation of the Walks Scheme and other appropriate schemes or actions to implement relevant objectives of the National Countryside Recreation Strategy. The Walks Scheme was launched in March 2008 on the recommendation of Comhairle na Tuaithe (The Countryside Council). It represents an innovative response to facilitating the development and maintenance of many of Ireland’s key walking trails. The Scheme brings in landholders as key participants in the provision of high quality walking trails, by contracting them to undertake maintenance work on the selected trails, in line with agreed work plans. It is currently operating on 40 trails supported by 1,811 landowners.

My Department chairs regular meetings of Comhairle Na Tuaithe (The Countryside Council) where matters are discussed relating to rural recreation/activity tourism and furthering the implementation of the priorities of the National Countryside Recreation Strategy (NCRS). Comhairle Na Tuaithe was established in February 2004 with a primary focus on the following priority areas; access to the countryside, developing a countryside code and developing a countryside recreation strategy. It comprises representatives of the farming organisations, recreational users of the countryside and state bodies with an interest in the countryside.

My Department is continuing negotiations with a number of State Agencies to agree a National Outdoor Recreation Plan for Public Lands and Waters in Ireland . It is intended to put in place a structure to ensure coordinated and appropriate development of State lands for recreation and activity tourism purposes. Over 15% of the lands and waters in the State are under the control of various Agencies and Departments and offer significant potential for further development. A coordinated approach will facilitate greater efficiency in the use of existing resources and support professional development of those working in the sector. In addition, my Department is a main funding partner of Leave No Trace Ireland which promotes responsible recreational use in the outdoors. It encourages all outdoor enthusiasts to act responsibly in the outdoors and to do their part to protect those lands used by the public for the benefit of the environment and for future generations.

A Mountain Access scheme is under development. It is intended to facilitate access to the uplands for hill walking and similar activities. A pilot scheme has been initiated at Mount Gable in Connemara and discussions are ongoing for a similar type scheme at Carrauntuohil, Co. Kerry, with the possibility of being extended to the entire MacGillicuddy Reeks. Discussions with local landowners have been initiated and it is intended to progress consideration of the most appropriate management structures and funding mechanisms during the first half of 2013. To support the ongoing development of Mountain Access areas and to facilitate access to the countryside for other recreational pursuits, my Department is currently negotiating the implementation of a National Indemnity Scheme which would indemnify private landowners against claims from recreational users for injury or damage to property. The Occupiers Liability Act of 1995 already provides significant protection to landowners, but the upfront costs of successfully defending a claim can be difficult. Perceptions regarding potential liability for claims from recreational users, due to injury or damage to personal property, have made access agreements more challenging . The proposed National Indemnity Scheme has the potential to address these perceptions and to unlock the latent potential of our countryside for recreation and activity tourism. This will support the economic development of rural communities and enhance employment capacity in those areas.

The State Claims Agency , with the cooperation and support of my Department and other key State Agencies, has established an Irish branch of the Visitor Safety in the Countryside Group (VSCG). It will use and further develop best practice to achieve a safe and pleasant experience for outdoor enthusiasts and visitors to the countryside. Discussions are ongoing with other key stakeholders and partners such as Fáilte Ireland, the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport and the National Trails Office regarding the development of greenways and cycleways and to secure better coordination and oversight of future proposed developments.

Pyrite Panel Report Implementation

Questions (151, 158, 161, 192)

Alan Farrell

Question:

151. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the basis on which the National Standards Authority of Ireland has been asked to report to his Department on the subject of pyrite testing; when this will be published; the consensus amongst stakeholders regarding the funding for testing for pyrite in properties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5083/13]

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Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

158. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of recommendations of the report of the pyrite panel that have been implemented to date; the time line for the implementation of the remaining recommendations; the legal mechanism through which the pyrite levy scheme will be established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5069/13]

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Patrick Nulty

Question:

161. Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when a levy on the construction industry will be introduced as indicated following the publication of the pyrite panel report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5079/13]

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Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

192. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the timeframe for the establishment of a pyrite resolution board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5578/13]

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Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 151, 158, 161 and 192 together.

The report of the independent Pyrite Panel contains twenty four inter-related recommendations covering a broad range of issues. The recommendations can be broken into two categories, those dealing with the delivery of solutions to homeowners whose homes are affected by pyrite and who have no other option for redress, and recommendations to limit the occurrence of similar problems in the future and to enhance consumer protection. The implementation of many of the recommendations in the pyrite report requires the involvement and co-operation of a number of parties, and implementation will be on a progressive basis. Given their particular impact on affected homeowners, priority is being given to the recommendations around the delivery of a remediation process for affected homeowner, including funding for a remediation scheme, the establishment of a Pyrite Resolution Board, and the development of standards for the testing and categorisation of dwellings and for a remediation method statement.

I have recently received Government approval for the imposition of a levy on both the quarrying and insurance sectors as a mechanism to provide the necessary funding for a remediation scheme. The imposition of these levies will require primary legislation and I am committed to having the legislation published and enacted in the shortest timeframe possible. The Government also approved the establishment of a Resolution Board as recommended in the pyrite report. I am currently finalising membership of the Board. I have previously announced the appointment of the Chairman and I will announce the full Board membership shortly. The role of the Board will be to oversee the operation of the remediation scheme and to ensure that the public interest, and the interest of the affected homeowners, is well served.

Reflecting the approach recommended in the report for the engagement of stakeholders in processes to provide a solution to the pyrite problem, my Department and I have been involved in on-going discussions with key stakeholders and in particular with representatives from the Construction Industry Federation, Irish Concrete Federation, HomeBond, and the Irish Banking Federation since July 2012. The Construction Industry Federation, the Irish Concrete Federation and HomeBond have agreed to establish an entity for the purposes of operating the remediation scheme in respect of those homes affected by pyrite. A number of financial institutions have agreed in principle to make initial loan funding available to facilitate the early commencement of pyrite remediation work and it is intended that the entity will engage with those institutions in relation to the loan facility.

In July 2012, shortly after receiving the pyrite report, I asked the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) to undertake the development of protocols for the testing and categorisation of dwellings and for a remediation statement as recommended in the report. I am pleased that the NSAI fast-tracked this work and the two new standards were published on 29 January 2013. Their publication represents another important step in the advancement and implementation of solutions for homeowners. In October 2012, the NSAI announced the review and development of the existing specification for unbound granular fill (hardcore) for use under concrete floors and sought submissions from the public. This work will now progress and I look forward to its completion which will represent an important safeguard for consumers in the future. The new Building Control (Amendment) Regulations, currently being finalised, require the submission of compliance documentation to Local Authorities and inspection and certification of building works by registered professionals providing an added level of consumer protection. This is in line with recommendations in the pyrite report. Work is underway on the scope and the terms and conditions of the remediation scheme and the cost of testing will be dealt with in that context.

Question No. 152 answered with Question No. 142.

Voluntary Housing Sector

Questions (153)

Sandra McLellan

Question:

153. Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the measures he is taking to support voluntary housing bodies to develop their housing stock to meet rising demand and the increased difficulties in sourcing finance. [5555/13]

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Written answers

Approved housing bodies (AHBs) are identified in the Government’s Housing Policy Statement as key partners in the delivery of social housing. However, the move from capital funded programmes of construction and acquisition by AHBs to more revenue funded options presents challenges for them. As such, I am developing an enabling regulatory framework for the sector that will provide support and assurance both to the sector itself, and to its external partners, as it takes on the expanded role envisaged for it in the policy statement and to underline its status as a viable and attractive investment opportunity for financial institutions.

This framework is being developed in consultation with the sector and I am currently considering the range of submissions received on foot of publishing a draft voluntary code in August 2012. It is my expectation that this code, which I hope to launch later in 2013, will serve as a learning opportunity for the sector and for my Department as we develop a longer-term statutory framework to best support the enhanced role of AHBs.

Specifically under the Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS), funding of up to 100% of the approved cost is available for the provision of accommodation to meet the needs of persons with specific categories of housing need including older people, people with an intellectual, physical or mental health disability, the homeless, returning emigrants and victims of domestic violence. My Department’s involvement with these voluntary and co-operative housing schemes relates primarily to the provision of funds for individual projects. The detailed administration of the schemes, and the certification that projects comply with the terms and conditions of the funding schemes, are the responsibility of the relevant local authority.

In 2012 I provided funding of € 66 million for the provision of accommodation under the voluntary housing capital funding schemes. Work is currently under way in my Department on preparing the capital allocations under the housing programme for 2013, including allocations to local authorities in respect of the CAS. I intend to announce details of these allocations as soon as possible.

Local Government Reform

Questions (154)

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

154. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the key requirements needed in order for an office of the directly elected mayor be established in Dublin; and the progress being made in the establishment of a colloquium of the four Dublin authorities. [5417/13]

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Written answers

I have established a Local Government Reform Implementation Advisory Group to drive implementation of the Action Programme for Effective Local Government. The establishment of a colloquium, in due course, of the elected members of the four Dublin local authorities to consider the options for the introduction of a directly elected Mayor for a Dublin metropolitan area will be part of the implementation process. It is envisaged that the colloquium will be convened by the Lord Mayor. The requirements for the establishment of an office of the directly elected Mayor in Dublin are set out in the Action Programme, and include issues in regard to the powers, structures and functions of such an office and changes in the powers, structures and functions of local authorities and other relevant bodies, budgetary matters, strategic coordination, an elected assembly with oversight and accountability functions, avoidance of duplication, maximisation of efficiency in local government arrangements, avoidance of cost increases and achievement of savings. The colloquium will assist in the development of a fully workable approach which is likely to gain the support of the relevant electorate.

Local Authority Housing Maintenance

Questions (155)

Gerry Adams

Question:

155. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide an update on the use of money recently designated by his Department for works at an estate (details supplied) in County Longford and the progress that has been made at the site on resolving the serious issues putting residents at risk. [5558/13]

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Written answers

An explosion occurred within a private house, one of a terrace of six houses, in this development in March 2012. Subsequently, Longford County Council established an expert steering group and appointed a firm of consulting engineers to investigate the cause of the explosion. A second explosion occurred in this development at the beginning of October 2012. The specific findings of the investigation carried out on behalf of the Council have been made available to residents of the terrace in Gleann Riada, as well as general advice to other residents in the estate. Longford County Council has also established a steering group to address the range of issues faced by the occupants of the Gleann Riada development and is liaising with the other State authorities involved, including the Health and Safety Authority.

My Department initially approved funding totalling €91,753.40 for Gleann Riada in August 2012 to cover the cost of addressing immediate public safety concerns. In November I approved further funding of €200,000 taking account of additional information which had been provided by Longford County Council in regard to public safety issues within the development. A comprehensive underground CCTV survey has been carried out on the estate, supported by funding provided under the public safety initiative. This identified the need for repair work on the foul and storm networks. Longford County Council will install or improve vents, manholes and gullies to ensure the major issues which led to the explosion are alleviated. Issues regarding public lighting will also be addressed, while such necessary works as are required will be carried out on the internal road network.

Local Government Reform

Questions (156)

Michael Colreavy

Question:

156. Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide an update on discussions he had with the Irish Local Development Network; the progress made with the ILDN on proposed recommendations for the alignment of local government and local development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5410/13]

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Written answers

I met with the Irish Local Development Network on 21 January 2013 to discuss the new initiatives arising from Putting People First, and, in particular, the recommendations of the Steering Group on alignment between local government and local development. The meeting focussed on the implementation of these recommendations, as well as other issues relating to local development, such as funding and administration.

I am keen that all parties involved in an enhanced alignment between local government and local development will engage productively in implementing the changes arising from Putting People First. My Department and I will continue to engage with the Irish Local Development Network and other key stakeholders on the implementation of the alignment recommendations, and I recognise that as a representative organisation, the Irish Local Development Network needs, in turn, to consult with its members. I look forward to the contribution of all parties to this change process, based on a shared focus on delivering better services to citizens and communities.

Question No. 157 answered with Question No. 140.
Questions Nos. 158 and 161 answered with Question No. 151.
Questions Nos. 159 and 160 answered with Question No. 142.
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