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Tuesday, 16 Apr 2013

Written Answers Nos. 533-554

Public Sector Staff Data

Questions (534)

Paudie Coffey

Question:

534. Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the total reduction in the number of staff in the civil and public service since he came to office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17235/13]

View answer

Written answers

Historical data on public service staff numbers is available on my Department’s website (http://databank.per.gov.ie/) from 1994 to Quarter 4 2012.

Between end-Quarter 1 2011 and end-Quarter 4 2012, public service numbers fell by 13,041 (or 4.3%), from 303,903 to 290,861. Data on serving numbers for Quarter 1 2013 is currently being collated.

The Government is committed to reducing public service numbers as part of its reform programme aimed at delivering a more customer focused, leaner, more efficient and better integrated public service. The Government’s policy is largely achieved through the non-replacement of retiring staff, although the moratorium arrangements allow for exceptions, particularly in the education and health sectors, and for some other priority posts.

Question No. 535 answered with Question No. 509.

National Procurement Service Framework Agreements

Questions (536)

Derek Nolan

Question:

536. Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he has considered the effect that companies being part of a larger purchasing group when tendering for NPS contracts is having on individual small and medium enterprises; the way he intends to address this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17245/13]

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Written answers

The national arrangements put in place by the National Procurement Service (NPS) are designed to enable the State to do more with less by aggregating procurement to secure better value for money. The majority of the aggregated arrangements are not new and have been available to the public service for a number of years. In utilising the national contracts, public bodies are able to take advantage of the NPS’s buying power and as a result can purchase supplies at competitive prices. This facilitates ongoing service delivery within tighter operating budgets.

In relation to the potential impact of aggregated procurement arrangements, it is worth noting that such arrangements can be implemented in a manner that achieves value for money and also facilitates SME access. While certain categories of goods and services may be suited to single supplier arrangements (e.g. electricity and gas), it should not be taken that single supplier frameworks are to be accepted as the norm. The greater use where appropriate of multi-supplier frameworks – for example the supply of managed print services - can address local supplier issues while also ensuring ongoing cost competitiveness of the framework itself. In order to facilitate SMEs, the NPS has encouraged tenderers who did not have the capability in their own right of providing goods and services nationally to partner with other entities to satisfy this requirement. Such multi-supplier frameworks can also offer SMEs the opportunity to participate in national level contracts.

In order to encourage greater SME participation the NPS over the past 3 years has conducted a targeted programme of education for suppliers who wish to learn more about doing business with the Irish Public Service. This programme consists of seminars, workshops and large scale 'meet the buyer' events hosted nationwide. Attendees could avail of educational seminars on a variety of topics ranging from the technicalities of public service procurement to procedures around consortia-building for SMEs. To date the NPS has facilitated workshops and presented at seminars to over 3,000 SMEs nationwide. In Parallel with these events the NPS also works closely with business representative bodies such as ISME and IBEC to provide briefings for their members.

Small and Medium Enterprises Supports

Questions (537)

Derek Nolan

Question:

537. Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if his attention has been drawn to the problem that small and medium enterprises are having in being unable to tender for contract because of protocol stating that they must have a turnover of at least €3 million even in situations where they are supplying the product at a cheaper price; his views on whether this process is supportive to SMEs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17324/13]

View answer

Written answers

There are no centrally imposed requirements for a minimum turnover. The Government recognises that the small and medium enterprise (SME) sector is very important to the economy and that public procurement can be a source of business for SMEs. In this regard, my Department has issued public procurement guidelines (Circular 10/10) to public bodies which are aimed at facilitating greater participation of SMEs in public procurement opportunities. In relation to suitability criteria, the guidelines stress that public bodies must ensure that any criteria/turnover levels set by them must be both justifiable and proportionate to the needs of the contract.

The assessment of a tenderer’s financial and economic standing is a key part of any procurement process. Establishing the appropriate suitability criteria that are relevant and appropriate to a particular contract is, of course, a matter for the contracting authority concerned. This is because the contracting authority is in the best position to gauge the appropriate levels of financial capacity that are appropriate to the needs of that specific contract. Therefore there are no centrally imposed requirements for a minimum turnover. Such requirements must logically be developed on a case by case basis with reference to the specific needs of the contract.

I have arranged for my Department to remind public bodies about this aspect of the public procurement guidance and the importance of contracting authorities ensuring they implement it appropriately.

Planning Issues

Questions (538)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

538. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position regarding the transfer of a burial ground (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17377/13]

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Written answers

The conveyancing of the property at Derrynane from the Commissioners of Public Works to Kerry County Council has been a complex legal process. The key issue has been establishing title documentation. I understand that the matter has progressed significantly in recent weeks and that contract documents have been returned to the Chief State Solicitor's Office. I am hopeful that the transfer can be concluded shortly.

Insurance Coverage

Questions (539)

Finian McGrath

Question:

539. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will advise residents on the Clontarf Road, Dublin 3, on the way in which they can get home insurance on account of the fact that the insurance companies have designated this area as a flooding area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17700/13]

View answer

Written answers

The decision to provide any specific form of insurance cover, and the price at which it is offered, is a commercial matter for insurance companies based on the assessment of the risks involved.

In order to assist and facilitate insurance companies in their assessment of flood risk, the OPW has been engaged with the insurance industry to agree a basis for the provision of information on flood defence works and schemes that have been funded and completed by the OPW. To progress this work a working group has been established between the OPW, the Irish Insurance Federation (IIF) and representatives of several insurance companies.

In relation to Clontarf, Dublin City Council developed proposals for a flood defence scheme to provide protection against coastal flooding for which the OPW agreed to provide funding. However, when the proposals were exhibited to the public by the Council there were a number of objections and as a result the scheme did not proceed. If alternative proposals are developed by the Council, they will be considered for funding by the OPW having regard to the overall availability of resources for flood risk management.

If a flood protection scheme does go ahead for Clontarf in due course, then, when completed, full details of the level and standard of protection provided by the scheme will be made available to the insurance industry which should facilitate the provision of insurance cover for those residents of the area who are experiencing difficulties in getting such cover at the moment.

Homeowners experiencing difficulties with flood insurance can contact the Irish Insurance Federation free Insurance Information Service. Their service can be contacted at (01) 676 1914 or by email at iis@iif.ie.

International Summer Camp

Questions (540)

Finian McGrath

Question:

540. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will support the International Summer Camp due in August by the Order of Malta, Ireland (details supplied). [17706/13]

View answer

Written answers

The Commissioners of Public Works would be happy to facilitate the proposed Order of Malta Summer Camp in August of this year in the Phoenix Park subject to standard conditions for this type of event and agreement on local arrangements.

Question No. 541 answered with Question No. 510.

Planning Issues

Questions (542)

Tom Fleming

Question:

542. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 164 of 27 February 2013, if he will expedite the transaction with Kerry County Council regarding the provision of a site for the proposed new cemetery on the grounds of Derrynane Abbey; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17723/13]

View answer

Written answers

The conveyancing of the property at Derrynane from the Commissioners of Public Works to Kerry County Council has been a complex legal process. The key issue has been establishing title documentation. I understand that the matter has progressed significantly in recent weeks and that contract documents have been returned to the Chief State Solicitor's Office. I am hopeful that the transfer can be concluded shortly.

Corporate Governance

Questions (543)

Michael McGrath

Question:

543. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his views on whether there is any potential for a conflict of interest in situations in which the firm acting as liquidator to a business is also the auditor or adviser to a business which is a debtor of the business in liquidation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16039/13]

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Written answers

A liquidator may be removed by the court if it can be shown that the liquidator is not acting in the best interests of the liquidation. Under section 228 of the Companies Act 1963, in the case of a court ordered liquidation, a liquidator appointed by the court may be removed by the court on cause shown. In the case of a voluntary liquidation, pursuant to section 277 of the Companies Act 1963, the court may, on cause shown, remove a liquidator and appoint another liquidator. An application to the court for removal of a liquidator may be made by any person who has a legitimate interest in the outcome of the liquidation.

Pursuant to section 243 of the Companies Act 1963, during liquidation the court may make an order for the inspection of the books and papers of the company by creditors and contributories of the company. Additionally, in accordance with section 57 of the Company Law Enforcement Act 2001, the Director of Corporate Enforcement may, on his own motion or where a complaint has been made to him by a member, contributor or creditor of the company, request the liquidator to produce his or her books for examination. Failure to comply with this request is an offence.

In relation to the auditor of a company, auditors are subject to ethical requirements included in the APB (FRC) Ethical Standards for Auditors and in the Codes of Ethics adopted by the Recognised Accountancy Bodies (‘RABs’). The Codes of Ethics adopted by the RABs derive from the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants’ (IESBA) Code of Ethics. In general the ethical requirements provide that an auditor should: take reasonable steps to identify any threats to his or her independence and/or possible conflicts of interest; evaluate any such threats including conflicts of interest; and take action to address any threats/conflicts of interest identified including not undertaking the work giving rise to the threat/conflict of interest if deemed appropriate.

If in dealing with an accountant or auditor who is a member of a prescribed accountancy body, a person, where not satisfied that the accountant or auditor has discharged his or her responsibilities fully and ethically, can make a complaint to the body in question, which must then apply its investigation and disciplinary procedures to the complaint.

Where these procedures have been exhausted, that person can make a complaint to the Irish Auditing and Accounting Authority (‘IAASA’). If IAASA has reason to believe that the body’s Investigation and Disciplinary Procedures may not have been complied with in that case, it may initiate an enquiry under the provisions of Section 23 of the Companies (Auditing and Accounting) Act 2003. Having completed such an enquiry, if IAASA is not satisfied that the body complied with its approved investigation and disciplinary procedures, IAASA may: annul all or part of a decision of that body relating to the matter, direct the body to conduct an investigation or a fresh investigation into the matter, require that body to pay to the Supervisory Authority an amount not exceeding €125,000

Under section 24 of the 2003 Act, following a complaint or on its own initiative, where, in its opinion, it is appropriate or in the public interest, IAASA can undertake an investigation into a possible breach of a prescribed accountancy body’s standards by a member. If such a breach is found by IAASA, it may impose any sanction to which the member is liable under the rules of the body and an amount towards the costs incurred by it investigating and determining the case.

Company Law

Questions (544)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

544. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his plans to examine the so called prepack receiverships to address concerns that companies are being bought out of debt by their existing owners, with limited marketing of the business to other potential buyers, while smaller creditors are being excluded from the process. [16280/13]

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Written answers

At the moment, my immediate priority in the company law area is to work for an early enactment of the Companies Bill 2012, which was published on the 21st of December last and is due to begin its passage through this House next week. Once on the statute book, the Companies Bill will introduce a modern company law code for Ireland and bring significant benefits to business. The Bill has been many years in the making and I am keen now to have it in force at the earliest opportunity.

However, I am aware of the issues that the Deputy has raised with regard to the conduct of receiverships and I have asked my officials to give them consideration.

Work Permit Applications

Questions (545)

Terence Flanagan

Question:

545. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if there is a limit on the amount of work permits issued each year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17095/13]

View answer

Written answers

Since 2004, Irish labour market policy has been to ensure that general labour and skills needs are met from within the workforce of the European Economic Area (EEA). Current Government policy is to issue employment permits for the employment of non-EEA nationals for specific vacancies and in response to employer demand for strategic skills and labour shortages in designated occupations in key economic sectors.

The numbers of employment permit applications submitted and issued have dropped since 2009 in line with economic conditions and the narrowing of eligible job categories and sectors where it was considered that a sufficient supply of labour exists. Where labour supply with the desired skills is difficult to source within the EEA, an Employment Permit may be sought for a third country national.

While Ireland does not operate a quota system, it is Government policy to issue Employment Permits for the employment of non-EEA nationals for specific vacancies and in response to employer demand for strategic skills and labour shortages in designated occupations in key economic sectors such as healthcare, information technology and financial services.

In the past when Ireland experienced both labour and skills shortages, the eligible occupation categories were broad enough to provide for an expanding economy and these labour market shortages. As labour market conditions deteriorated, the eligible occupation categories were narrowed and other restrictions applied in line with the decline in employment opportunities and the emergence of an oversupply of labour.

Eligible and ineligible categories of occupations for Employment Permits are determined, in line with the regular analyses of the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (http://www.skillsireland.ie/), Enterprise Development Agencies, and industry, with regard to labour market requirements. These recently updated categories can be viewed at http://www.djei.ie/labour/workpermits.

On 10 April last, I announced a series of reforms to the EP system designed to encourage Ireland's attractiveness as a location for international mobile talent, particularly in the ICT sector. The reforms include:

- reduction of 33% in the processing time for employment permits,

- Improvements in the appeals process and a reduction in the number of appeals,

- Broadening the highly-skilled eligible occupations list, and

- Improved customer service and communications.

In 2012, a total of 2,918 employment permits were issued and 1,088 were renewed compared to 7,307 employment permits issued and 16,580 renewed in 2006.

Jobs Protection

Questions (546)

Robert Troy

Question:

546. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he has received any communications in relation to concerns that 100 jobs are at risk in a legitimate tobacco factory in Mullingar, County Westmeath, if draft EU proposals on tobacco are agreed which mandates a minimum pack size of 40g for roll your own tobacco; if the Department of Health consulted the Minister with responsibility for jobs, on the positive and negative impact of the draft tobacco products directive in Ireland and in particular on the impact on legitimate jobs in Mullingar; if so, his response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16054/13]

View answer

Written answers

The 2001 Tobacco Products Directive concerns the manufacture, presentation and sale of tobacco products in the EU. Last December, following extensive consultation with stakeholders, including a public consultation, the European Commission published a proposal for a new EU Tobacco Products Directive. The proposal is currently being discussed and negotiated at the European Parliament and Council of Ministers and may be subject to change based on these discussions. I understand from the Minister for Health that the ultimate purpose of the proposal is to reduce the numbers of people smoking.

As Minister for Jobs I am acutely aware of the importance of protecting and retaining jobs across all areas of economic activity. In this respect, I confirm that I received representations in relation to concerns that 100 jobs are at risk in Mullingar, which I have already brought to the attention of the Minister for Health. I also confirm that Minister Reilly has consulted with me and my Department on the proposal for a revised Tobacco Products Directive. The proposed Directive is relevant to a number of policy areas within my Department and I will be reverting to Minister Reilly shortly with my considered views in relation to it.

Job Creation Data

Questions (547)

Micheál Martin

Question:

547. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide a breakdown of the level of employment, job losses and job creation in companies supported by the Industrial Development Agency and Enterprise Ireland for each of the past five years on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16088/13]

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Written answers

Details of the number of full time jobs existing, created and lost in IDA and Enterprise Ireland client companies are set out in the tabular statements, which are drawn from the Forfás Annual Employment Survey.

I am pleased to say that the Agencies’ End of Year Statements indicate that 2012 was a good year for job creation in Agency-supported companies. IDA client companies created 12,722 gross new jobs (6,750 net new jobs). The IDA client base in Ireland now employs 152,785 people, a level last recorded before the global financial crisis began in 2008. Clients of Enterprise Ireland created 12,861 gross new jobs (3,338 net new jobs – the highest net gain for Irish companies since 2006).

Table 1 - Level of employment, job losses and job creation in companies supported by Enterprise Ireland (PFT = Permanent Full Time)

County

Data

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

Carlow

PFT Jobs

2,423

1,965

1,952

2,106

2,137

PFT Gains

223

40

225

253

152

PFT Losses

306

498

238

99

121

Cavan

PFT Jobs

4,645

3,995

3,925

4,021

4,151

PFT Gains

335

89

196

369

374

PFT Losses

372

739

266

273

244

Clare

PFT Jobs

1,812

1,547

1,618

1,552

1,580

PFT Gains

86

50

202

94

133

PFT Losses

181

315

131

160

105

Cork

PFT Jobs

19,408

17,287

16,411

17,784

18,629

PFT Gains

1,320

1,143

1,160

1,997

1,663

PFT Losses

1,440

3,264

2,036

624

818

Donegal

PFT Jobs

3,342

2,767

2,662

2,784

2,655

PFT Gains

270

164

218

301

180

PFT Losses

463

739

323

179

309

Dublin

PFT Jobs

54,961

50,318

48,859

49,477

50,159

PFT Gains

4,704

3,864

4,535

3,938

4,097

PFT Losses

6,071

8,507

5,994

3,320

3,415

Galway

PFT Jobs

6,107

5,470

5,494

5,901

6,063

PFT Gains

532

386

617

855

572

PFT Losses

818

1,023

593

448

410

Kerry

PFT Jobs

3,415

3,156

3,092

3,230

3,318

PFT Gains

260

172

142

232

194

PFT Losses

381

431

206

94

106

Kildare

PFT Jobs

4,736

4,698

4,450

5,160

5,450

PFT Gains

351

476

295

1,082

534

PFT Losses

683

514

543

372

244

Kilkenny

PFT Jobs

3,722

3,071

2,920

2,869

3,089

PFT Gains

176

74

140

150

320

PFT Losses

386

725

291

201

100

Laois

PFT Jobs

1,390

1,106

1,059

991

929

PFT Gains

93

23

76

158

76

PFT Losses

169

307

123

226

138

Leitrim

PFT Jobs

726

575

537

536

574

PFT Gains

44

11

31

46

54

PFT Losses

85

162

69

47

16

Limerick

PFT Jobs

7,311

6,337

6,113

6,048

6,279

PFT Gains

498

344

418

289

684

PFT Losses

1,075

1,318

642

354

453

Longford

PFT Jobs

1,864

1,693

1,575

1,529

1,557

PFT Gains

141

120

74

86

116

PFT Losses

161

291

192

132

88

Louth

PFT Jobs

5,257

4,523

4,247

4,225

4,328

PFT Gains

472

205

255

389

299

PFT Losses

624

939

531

411

196

Mayo

PFT Jobs

3,297

3,106

2,942

3,127

3,054

PFT Gains

289

203

144

716

197

PFT Losses

432

394

308

531

270

Meath

PFT Jobs

4,740

4,294

4,288

4,450

4,771

PFT Gains

325

350

301

362

615

PFT Losses

592

796

307

200

294

Monaghan

PFT Jobs

4,093

3,236

3,195

3,311

3,463

PFT Gains

341

74

252

391

294

PFT Losses

1,041

931

293

275

142

Offaly

PFT Jobs

3,353

2,749

2,730

2,731

2,699

PFT Gains

689

100

266

173

139

PFT Losses

386

704

285

172

171

Roscommon

PFT Jobs

1,646

1,323

1,191

1,165

1,119

PFT Gains

39

37

46

108

29

PFT Losses

391

360

178

134

75

Sligo

PFT Jobs

1,560

1,271

1,281

1,332

1,508

PFT Gains

87

74

131

140

247

PFT Losses

149

363

121

89

71

Tipperary North Riding

PFT Jobs

2,522

2,166

2,221

2,293

2,162

PFT Gains

91

23

161

127

49

PFT Losses

658

379

106

55

180

Tipperary South Riding

PFT Jobs

3,373

2,837

2,641

2,187

2,151

PFT Gains

321

56

80

123

81

PFT Losses

392

592

276

577

117

Waterford

PFT Jobs

5,093

3,914

3,919

4,217

4,063

PFT Gains

492

317

431

909

692

PFT Losses

902

1,496

426

611

846

Westmeath

PFT Jobs

2,948

2,242

2,151

2,181

2,352

PFT Gains

379

92

154

340

275

PFT Losses

374

798

245

310

104

Wexford

PFT Jobs

4,250

4,010

3,942

3,793

3,881

PFT Gains

368

310

222

191

385

PFT Losses

448

550

290

340

297

Wicklow

PFT Jobs

3,928

3,263

3,137

3,122

3,339

PFT Gains

265

91

215

204

410

PFT Losses

663

756

341

219

193

Table 2 - Level of employment, job losses and job creation in companies supported by IDA Ireland (PFT = Permanent Full Time)

County

Data

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

Carlow

PFT Jobs

457

431

316

391

506

PFT Gains

74

49

87

75

116

PFT Losses

28

75

202

0

1

Cavan

PFT Jobs

1,071

1,033

1,035

1,016

1,020

PFT Gains

32

18

52

3

43

PFT Losses

26

56

50

22

39

Clare

PFT Jobs

1,180

1,210

1,219

1,213

1,222

PFT Gains

140

123

30

27

37

PFT Losses

16

93

21

33

28

Cork

PFT Jobs

21,293

20,031

20,457

21,547

22,535

PFT Gains

2,116

1,108

1,393

1,990

1,979

PFT Losses

1,489

2,370

967

900

991

Donegal

PFT Jobs

1,663

1,697

1,633

1,882

2,050

PFT Gains

67

63

152

271

186

PFT Losses

48

29

216

22

18

Dublin

PFT Jobs

53,344

48,813

48,545

52,014

55,344

PFT Gains

4,351

2,284

5,037

6,864

6,389

PFT Losses

4,250

6,815

5,305

3,395

3,059

Galway

PFT Jobs

9,803

9,168

9,447

10,325

10,887

PFT Gains

636

442

789

1,047

859

PFT Losses

764

1,077

510

169

297

Kerry

PFT Jobs

1,798

1,407

1,313

1,294

1,360

PFT Gains

86

25

50

163

74

PFT Losses

108

416

144

182

8

Kildare

PFT Jobs

10,610

9,127

9,937

9,828

9,515

PFT Gains

113

30

1,228

398

176

PFT Losses

626

1,513

418

507

489

Kilkenny

PFT Jobs

468

356

371

399

579

PFT Gains

1

0

17

33

180

PFT Losses

9

112

2

5

0

Laois

PFT Jobs

109

115

124

100

79

PFT Gains

0

17

10

3

2

PFT Losses

20

11

1

27

23

Leitrim

PFT Jobs

1,013

988

972

780

629

PFT Gains

35

5

65

7

1

PFT Losses

43

30

81

199

152

Limerick

PFT Jobs

8,624

6,280

5,971

6,072

6,373

PFT Gains

286

172

163

233

400

PFT Losses

694

2,516

472

132

99

Longford

PFT Jobs

847

781

658

608

632

PFT Gains

30

8

4

0

24

PFT Losses

88

74

127

50

0

Louth

PFT Jobs

1,529

1,317

1,024

1,075

1,416

PFT Gains

75

33

43

109

386

PFT Losses

212

245

336

58

45

Mayo

PFT Jobs

3,010

2,948

3,112

3,094

3,162

PFT Gains

132

97

183

69

126

PFT Losses

126

159

19

87

58

Meath

PFT Jobs

1,270

1,116

1,075

1,100

1,065

PFT Gains

132

30

38

53

68

PFT Losses

307

184

79

28

103

Monaghan

PFT Jobs

351

353

367

282

275

PFT Gains

15

19

28

0

3

PFT Losses

14

17

14

85

10

Offaly

PFT Jobs

1,193

1,087

828

772

802

PFT Gains

29

22

25

31

31

PFT Losses

55

128

284

87

1

Roscommon

PFT Jobs

946

855

804

843

896

PFT Gains

41

0

12

51

53

PFT Losses

0

91

63

12

0

Sligo

PFT Jobs

2,273

2,190

1,999

2,041

2,052

PFT Gains

103

54

53

93

149

PFT Losses

64

137

244

51

138

Tipperary North Riding

PFT Jobs

550

362

277

296

290

PFT Gains

13

0

14

22

0

PFT Losses

46

188

99

3

6

Tipperary South Riding

PFT Jobs

3,217

3,376

3,255

3,060

2,915

PFT Gains

262

252

56

84

10

PFT Losses

26

93

177

279

155

Waterford

PFT Jobs

6,079

5,622

5,329

4,637

4,526

PFT Gains

176

112

146

72

75

PFT Losses

483

569

439

764

186

Westmeath

PFT Jobs

2,053

1,804

1,892

2,030

2,252

PFT Gains

134

231

128

194

252

PFT Losses

222

480

40

56

30

Wexford

PFT Jobs

2,147

2,071

2,178

2,182

2,187

PFT Gains

120

14

174

51

111

PFT Losses

73

90

67

47

106

Wicklow

PFT Jobs

2,559

2,328

2,167

1,986

1,936

PFT Gains

53

39

13

66

60

PFT Losses

327

270

174

247

110

Appointments to State Boards

Questions (548)

Seamus Healy

Question:

548. Deputy Seamus Healy asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the number of chief executive officers in State and semi-State agencies serving on a first fixed term contract at present; the number of such contracts that will terminate in the next year; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that if such a CEO is reappointed on the basis of a second contract, the person will be entitled to a contract of indefinite duration and if he will therefore insist, that on termination of first contracts, such positions be filled by open competition including interview by an independent board appointed by him which will assess the merits and qualifications of the candidates. [16211/13]

View answer

Written answers

Appointments to positions of Chief Executive Officer of State Agencies are a matter for the boards of the agencies concerned. I am satisfied that the current procedures for appointment of CEOs are appropriate having regard to the skills and qualifications required for the positions. In making such appointments agencies are required to comply with all aspects of employment law including those relating to fixed term contracts. I am satisfied that the agencies under my Department’s remit have properly observed all legal requirements in this regard, and that they are aware of the risks of non-compliance. I will, however, ask the agencies to contact the Deputy directly in relation to the current contractual status of their CEO.

Job Creation Data

Questions (549)

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

549. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the number of jobs created to date, excluding those in administering the scheme, by loans made form the microenterprise loans fund. [16402/13]

View answer

Written answers

Microfinance Ireland (MFI) began operating in October 2012. At close of business on the 25th March 2013, 41 loans have been approved by MFI, which in turn support 112 jobs. Of these, 28 loans have been approved via the County and City Enterprise Boards (CEBs) which support 75.5 jobs.

It is my intention that progress reports on the Microenterprise Loan Fund will be published via the MFI website microfinanceireland.ie and on my Department’s website enterprise.gov.ie on a quarterly basis.

Departmental Bodies

Questions (550)

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

550. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the number of additional staff posts created in Microfinance Ireland to promote and process applications from the microenterprise loans fund. [16403/13]

View answer

Written answers

Microfinance Ireland opened for business on 1st October 2012, and as of 11th April 2013, seven staff are employed by Microfinance Ireland (MFI). On the 22nd April a new systems and finance position will be filled bringing the total number of staff employed by MFI to 8.

MFI also has an external assessor panel of ten credit assessors depending on application volumes so they can ensure a satisfactory turnaround for applicants.

It is my intention that progress reports on the Microenterprise Loan Fund will be published via the MFI website microfinanceireland.ie and on my Department’s website enterprise.gov.ie on a quarterly basis.

Departmental Reports

Questions (551)

Seamus Kirk

Question:

551. Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his views on a report entitled Feasibility Study for Making Ireland a World Centre for Managing and Trading in Intellectual Property; when this report will be published; the main conclusions and actionable recommendations of said report; when these recommendations will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16514/13]

View answer

Written answers

In order to deliver on a commitment in the Programme for Government which was further articulated in the Action Plan for Jobs 2012, the Department commissioned a Feasibility Study to examine what structures and policies could be developed to make Ireland a world centre for managing and trading in intellectual property. Following a competitive procurement procedure, Deloitte was awarded the contract to undertake the Feasibility Study.

The objectives of the study were: to identify and describe the emerging trends in IP Portfolio Management in corporations globally; and taking account of such global emerging trends, to identify options and models for Ireland to leverage its existing strengths to become an internationally attractive centre for managing and trading in IP, such that this could realise an economic and jobs potential.

Deloitte’s work was overseen by a Steering Group which was chaired by the Department and with representatives from Forfás, IDA, Enterprise Ireland and Science Foundation Ireland. The Study was presented by Deloitte to the Department in final format in January 2013 and is now being considered by officials in the Department. Following this consideration, proposals will be developed regarding the next steps to be taken resulting from the findings of the Study.

Ministerial Travel

Questions (552)

Sandra McLellan

Question:

552. Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the cost incurred by his Department, in respect of this year’s overseas travel programme for St. Patrick’s Day; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16610/13]

View answer

Written answers

This year saw the introduction of the Government’s Ministerial-led St. Patrick’s Day “Promote Ireland” Programme, which saw 19 Government Ministers travel to 21 countries across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia for a series of trade, investment and tourism-focused programmes.

Ministers participated in over 150 business-related events, 30+ high-level political meetings – including bilaterals with US President Barack Obama and US Secretary of State John Kerry – along with cultural, networking and Irish community events throughout the St. Patrick’s Day period. Hundreds of companies participated in events and meetings as part of this Ministerial-led Programme.

As part of the Programme, I travelled to Germany for a 4-day programme in Munich, Cologne and Dusseldorf, which included an event in Munich with 100 companies, 8 meetings with IDA and Enterprise Ireland target companies, 3 Bord Bia events as well as a meeting with Prof Brend Venohr, a renowned expert on the Mittelstand sector of mid-sized employment-intensive companies. The programme, which is the 14th major trade/investment mission I have undertaken in 24 months in office, also included a series of Irish community/cultural events.

My colleague, Minister Perry travelled to Scotland, participating in a range of trade, tourism and cultural events in both Edinburgh and Glasgow. These included meeting with Enterprise Ireland client companies who have a strong Scottish presence.

The costs incurred by my Department in respect of both these trips relate to flights, accommodation and subsistence in respect of both Minister Perry and I and our respective Private Secretaries. The costs are set out in the following table:

Minister

Trip

Flights

Hotel

Subsistence

Other Transport*

Total

Minister Bruton

plus Private Secretary

Germany

16-20 March

€994.62

€802.00

€299.83

€24.00

€2,120.45

Minister Perry

plus Private Secretary

Scotland

13-17 March

€269.96

€1,154.47

€439.24

€76.80

€1,940.47

*relates to miscellaneous travel costs incurred such as taxis

Graduate Support Schemes

Questions (553)

Clare Daly

Question:

553. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the steps he has taken to assist graduates to secure employment here when they complete their studies, rather than have our best talent exit the country. [16661/13]

View answer

Written answers

The quality and talent of Irish graduates is one of the factors that has consistently made Ireland attractive for foreign direct investment. For indigenous Irish firms, also, talented graduates are crucial in the drive to develop innovative products and services and compete in an ever-changing market place.

Through the Action Plan for Jobs, the Government is providing the basis for increased employment opportunities for graduates, particularly in growing and emerging sectors that rely on high knowledge and skills levels. The Action Plan includes a number of measures that specifically support graduates.

In relation to my own Department, Enterprise Ireland operates programmes such as Graduates 4 International Growth, which is assists companies with ambitious growth plans in key markets to create one or more entry-level graduate market researcher positions. Graduate market researchers work overseas for 12 months to complete a project related to the company’s growth plans in the overseas market.

Enterprise Ireland also runs the New Frontiers programme, which is an entrepreneur development programme delivered at a local level by the Institutes of Technology. The programme provides successful applicants with a package of supports to help accelerate their business ideas and to equip them with the skills and contacts necessary to successfully start and grow their company. It may be of particular interest to new graduates.

Science Foundation Ireland continue to promote the study of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) disciplines, to ensure that graduates have the knowledge and skills to avail of opportunities in high value-added sectors.

The Action Plan for Jobs also includes commitments to support graduates in specific sectors such as the food industry and ICT. One of the ambitions outlined in the Action Plan is that, by 2018, Ireland will have the highest percentage of computing graduates as a proportion of all tertiary graduates. That process will begin in 2013 through a process of increased programme places, reskilling and conversion courses, and through targeted migration of key skills groups.

In the area of labour market activation, the JobBridge scheme operated by the Minister for Social Protection has proven to be very successful in providing opportunities for young graduates to get valuable employment experience. A recent review of the scheme, carried out by Indecon consultants, found that more than half of participants had gone on to paid employment after their internships ends.

State Bodies Mergers

Questions (554)

Simon Harris

Question:

554. Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation when the National Consumer Agency will be merged with other State agencies; the reason a new chief executive was appointed to the National Consumer Agency; the length of time of their contract; their role when the agency is merged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16866/13]

View answer

Written answers

Work on drafting the Consumer and Competition Bill is on-going and the Bill is included in the “A list” in the Government’s current Legislative Programme.

In addition to merging the National Consumer Agency and the Competition Authority, the Bill will, inter alia, update and reform competition law on foot a review of the operation and implementation of the Competition Act 2002, give effect to the recommendations of the Advisory Group on Media Mergers and introduce enabling provisions for a code of practice for the grocery goods sector.

The merger of the two bodies is aimed at ensuring improved co-ordination of the two policy areas. Enforcing both competition and consumer laws will give the newly merged body synergies and efficiencies in carrying out its functions. This will have benefits for consumers due to the existence of a stronger and more co-ordinated body dealing with consumer and competition issues.

As regards the appointment of a new Chief Executive to the National Consumer Agency, that post is a statutory position under the Consumer Protection Act, 2007. Following the decision of the previous CEO not to take up the offer of a new contract, sanction was received from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform to recruit a new Chief Executive given the need to ensure that the specific statutory functions of the CEO under the 2007 Act could continue to be carried out. These include important functions such as being the accountable officer of the Agency before the Public Accounts Committee of the Dáil and other relevant Committees of the Oireachtas, managing the staff, administration and business of the Agency, reporting to the Board of the Agency in relation to performance of the Agency’s statutory functions etc. It is essential that these statutory functions continue to be carried out until the Agency is formally merged with the Competition Authority.

The new CEO’s contract is for a period of five years. At the time of the advertisement for the CEO post, it was specifically indicated that the successful appointee would also be appointed as a Member-designate of the merged body. When the merged body is formally established, following enactment of the Consumer and Competition Bill, the CEO will act as a Member of the new body.

In appointing Ms. Isolde Goggin as Chairperson of the Competition Authority, I also appointed her to act as Chairperson-Designate of the merged body. The appointment of the Chairperson as Chairperson-Designate and the new CEO of the NCA and the existing Members of the Competition Authority as Members Designate of the proposed Consumer and Competition Authority is intended to allow both bodies to work together to bring their collective strengths, expertise and experience to bear so as to ensure that the transition to the merged body is as smooth as possible.

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