Written Answers Nos. 450 - 470
450. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide, in tabular form, the name, costs, date of commission, date or expected date of publication and name of the external consultant of all external reports commissioned by his Department since March 2011. [34406/13]
View answerThe information is provided in the following tables.
January - July 2013
|
Name of Company/Payee |
Cost (€) |
Date of Commission |
Date of Completion |
|
Janet Hughes |
17,835 |
January 2013 |
April 2013 |
|
RSM McClure Watters |
37,634 |
February 2013 |
September 2013 |
January – December 2012
|
Name of Company/Payee |
Cost (€) |
Date of Commission |
Date of Completion |
|
Achilles Procurement Services Ltd |
2,650 |
July 2012 |
August 2012 |
|
Fitzpatrick Associates |
48,647 |
September 2012 |
October 2013 |
|
Version 1 |
29,667 |
January 2012 |
October 2012 |
|
Ward Solutions |
14,111 |
February 2012 |
August 2012 |
|
Ward Solutions |
16,590 |
February 2012 |
April 2012 |
|
Ward Solutions |
8,394 |
December 2012 |
December 2012 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
102,872.62 |
January 2012 |
January 2013 |
March – December 2011
|
Name of Company/Payee |
Cost (€) |
Date of Commission |
Date of Completion |
|
Rits |
7,093 |
June 2011 |
August 2011 |
|
Rits |
3630 |
November 2011 |
December 2011 |
|
Rits |
4729 |
November 2011 |
December 2011 |
|
Maxima Ireland |
8,276 |
August 2011 |
August 2011 |
For information I provide a similar question answered previously, on Tuesday, 22 May 2012, that provides information on work undertaken by consultants inm the period 2008 – 2011.
Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the total amount of expenditure on consultancy by his Department in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011; the numbers of consultants engaged by his Department in those years; the names of the consultancy companies awarded contracts; and the steps which have been taken to reduce the expenditure on consultancy and the reliance on consultants by his Department in these years and for the future. [25549/12]
Details of the information on consultancies requested by the Deputy for the period from 2008 to 2011 are set out in the following tables. My Department has, in line with Government policy, taken measures to reduce the level of expenditure on external consultancies. The number of consultancies undertaken has been significantly reduced and are undertaken on the basis of necessity and in instances where it is not possible to conduct the work in-house having regard to the nature of the work and the skills required.
2011
|
Name of Company/Payee |
Purpose |
Cost (€) |
|
Mr. John Travers |
Facilitation of Code of Practice for Grocery Goods Undertakings (continuation of services provided in 2010) |
€36,905 |
|
Reidy Brophy Limited |
Facilitation of a focus group with business to develop a web portal on regulation affecting businesses |
€3,570 |
|
Connolly Lowe |
Legal Accounting Assignment for ODCE |
€8,963 |
|
Remy Farrell |
Counsel's Opinion for ODCE |
€545 |
|
Una Ní Raifeartaigh |
Opinion and Advices for ODCE |
€1,210 |
|
Una Ní Raifeartaigh |
Opinion and Advices for ODCE |
€4,840 |
|
Karole Cuddihy |
Legal Proofing of document for ODCE |
€968 |
|
Una Ní Raifeartaigh |
Opinion and Advices for ODCE |
€454 |
|
Capital for Enterprise Ltd. |
Design of Temporary Partial Credit Guarantee Scheme |
€72,074 |
|
Fitzpatrick Associates Economic Consultants |
Assessment of the Productive Sector Operational Programme, 2000 – 2006 |
€15,730 |
|
Leo Burnett |
Design work for publicity campaign re increase in National Minimum Wage Rate |
€847 |
|
UCD (Dr Frank Walsh) |
Review of ERO and REA Wage Setting Mechanisms |
€15,000 |
|
Keating & Associates |
To provide NERA with PR Consultancy Services re their information campaign on employment rights matters. |
€18,770 |
|
Greater Heights Ltd |
Learning needs Analysis(NERA) |
€15,645 |
|
Mairéad Carey |
Case Summaries for The Labour Court Annual Report 2010 |
€7,889 |
|
Rits |
IT Security assessment of new hosting site established in the Revenue Hosting Centre, John’s Road |
€15,452 |
|
IBM |
Lotus Notes healthcheck |
€10,239 |
|
Maxima Ireland |
Virtualisation Strategy Review – a short high-level assessment of the future opportunities available to the Department to virtualise some of its servers with a view to making cost savings. |
€8,276 |
|
Declan Murphy |
Legal advice |
€605 |
|
Kilroys Solicitors |
Legal advice in relation to Export Credit Insurance Recoveries |
€9,231 |
|
Sia Management Group |
DJEI Strategic Development Plan facilitation and consultancy support |
€15,089 |
|
Total |
€262,302 |
451. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the steps he and his Department have taken and plan to undertake to address the scourge of unemployment in counties Cavan and Monaghan; if he will advise of prospects in the pipeline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34452/13]
View answerThe Government’s approach to tackling the unemployment problem is to focus resources on those individuals most at risk of long-term unemployment. In this context, together with the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste and the Minister for Social Protection, I launched the JobsPlus initiative last week. This is a new employer incentive scheme operated by the Department of Social Protection which will incentivise businesses to hire jobseekers from the Live Register, boost job creation and reduce long-term unemployment. Much of the application and approval process for JobsPlus will be completed online at www.jobsplus.ie.
In terms of job creation in Cavan and Monaghan, Enterprise Ireland’s (EI) activity is focused on the creation of new jobs through supporting entrepreneurs setting up new High Potential Start-Up Companies (HPSU), the retention and creation of new jobs in existing companies and in enhancing the innovation capability of Ireland at a national and regional level through support of research in companies and Third Level institutions. EI provides a range of supports for start-ups including: the Competitive Feasibility Fund for the North East Region (Cavan, Monaghan and Louth) launched in February 2013; the Competitive Start-Up Fund, the Seed and Venture Capital and Development Capital Fund; the HALO Business Angel Partnership Programme that is mandated to match business angels to appropriate projects; the New Frontiers Programme and the Innovation Voucher Initiative.
EI has 99 client companies in County Cavan employing in excess of 4,000 people. To date in 2013, over €621,000 has been approved to Cavan companies and €420,000 paid. In County Monaghan, Enterprise Ireland has 124 client companies employing almost 3,500 people. To date in 2013, over €1.4m has been approved to Monaghan companies and €599,000 paid.
The Cavan and Monaghan County Enterprise Boards (CEBs) support the micro-enterprise sector at local level. Support is available, subject to certain criteria, to promote and develop indigenous micro-enterprise potential and to stimulate economic activity and entrepreneurship at local level, with priority being given to manufacturing and internationally traded services. In 2012, Cavan CEB paid out €234,185 to 20 projects and 477 people availed of Cavan CEB Training Programmes. To date in 2013, Cavan CEB has approved €234,500 in grant aid to 10 projects with the potential to create 47 full-time and 16 part-time jobs. In 2012, Monaghan CEB paid out €258,522 to 14 projects and 648 people availed of Monaghan CEB Training Programmes. To date in 2013, Monaghan CEB has approved grant aid of €171,220 to 6 start-up and developing companies with an expected job creation figure of 15.
Recent initiatives organised by these two CEBs to address job losses in the region, include:
- A €3.064 million project funded by the Special EU Programmes Body under the INTERREG IVA Programme entitled “Harnessing Natural Resources”. Overall, it is estimated that the project will result in the creation of up to 100 jobs.
- An Information Event in Castleblayney, inviting all relevant agencies to come together under one roof to provide information and support to the unemployed.
The Government also established a Microfinance Loan Fund in 2012, to improve access to credit for entrepreneurs and to facilitate the growth and expansion of viable businesses. This is particularly relevant to entrepreneurs who don’t have a track record in credit history, previous business experience, other assets to act as security etc. which financial institutions typically seek.
In accordance with its Horizon 2020 Strategy, IDA has invested in the provision of an extensive portfolio of property solutions in the North East Region which enhances its marketability for potential FDI opportunities. IDA will consider all opportunities to leverage its property portfolio in smaller population centres like Cavan and Monaghan in order to facilitate investment generation and job creation from the indigenous and non-traditional sectors of the economy.
The following revised reply was received on 27 September 2013.
Please note that the reply contained the following statement: "EI has 99 client companies in County Cavan employing in excess of 4,000 people. To date in 2013, over €621,000 has been approved to Cavan companies and €420,000 paid."
It has been brought to the Minister's attention that this statement was not factually correct and the reply should have referred to payments of €621,000 and approval of €420,000.
452. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will take the appropriate steps to compel the Industrial Development Authority to act as a State body, treating all counties and potential locations for inward investment equally; if he has given any consideration to introducing performance targets by county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34453/13]
View answerIn seeking to achieve balanced regional development and the broader goal of securing new foreign direct investment (FDI) projects for Ireland in a very competitive global environment, the concept of scale is crucial. In order to achieve balanced regional economic development, IDA prioritises the marketing of its Gateway locations within each region as the locations of critical mass and highlights the opportunities provided by other locations on an opportunistic basis, which are within commuting distances of these Gateways.
I am mindful of the concerns that have been expressed to me by Deputies on all sides of the House about the level of site visits to certain regional locations. I have, accordingly, raised this matter with the CEO of IDA Ireland with a view to exploring what further initiatives can be taken to influence potential investors to invest in such locations. That having been said, however, locations outside of Dublin and the main urban centres already facilitate the presence of a large number of multinational companies who have invested over the years, span multiple sectors and employ significant amounts of people. The primary opportunity for regional locations is in respect of the existing client base and potential further investment opportunities from same. Approximately 70% of all FDI investments won by IDA is from the existing client base.
In order to ensure that Ireland can continue to compete globally for foreign direct investment, an in depth analysis of our FDI strategy with a view to informing the formulation of an appropriate strategy for the period post-2014 is currently being undertaken. This analysis, will take account of factors such as key trends emerging in FDI best practice internationally, Ireland’s strengths in attracting FDI, any change to the EU’s State Aid rules that may be introduced in the near future and our approach to regional development
453. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide, in tabular form, a breakdown of the fees and expenses paid to each member of each State board, to include the chair and board members, and the number of members on each State board under the aegis of his Department. [34516/13]
View answer478. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the annual saving to the Exchequer if all State agency board fees were reduced by 25% under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35802/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 453 and 478 together.
The following table lists the fees for the Chairperson and Members, for each Board under the aegis of my Department. The Deputy should note that in some cases members may have opted to waive their fees, some members will be subject to the "one person one salary" principle and others are Department nominees at official level who are not entitled to fees and vacancies will exist on various boards from time to time. It is worth noting as of March 2013 of the 64 appointments to State Boards within my remit 36 were allocated under legislation to Department Representatives, social partners, nominees of other Ministers and nominees of prescribed bodies. The individual amounts paid to each member in board fees and expenses are a day to day matter for the respective Agencies. I have asked the Agencies to respond directly to the Deputy.
|
Body |
Chairpersons Fees |
Member Fees |
|
Enterprise Ireland |
€20,520 |
€11,970 |
|
Forfas |
€20,520 |
€11,970 |
|
IDA Ireland |
€20,520 |
€11,970 |
|
Labour Relations Commission |
€20,520 |
€11,970 |
|
National Consumer Agency |
€20,520 |
€11,970 |
|
Personal Injuries Assessment Board |
€20,520 |
€11,970 |
|
Science Foundation Ireland |
€20,520 |
€11,970 |
|
Shannon Free Airport Development Company |
€20,520 |
€11,970 |
|
Health and Safety Authority |
€11,970 |
€7,695 |
|
Irish Auditing and Accounting Supervisory Authority |
€11,970 |
€7,695 |
|
National Standards Authority of Ireland |
€11,970 |
€7,695 |
|
Crafts Council of Ireland |
€11,970 |
€7,695 |
|
Intertrade Ireland |
€11,970 |
€7,695 |
|
Company Law Review Group |
€8,978 |
€5,985 |
454. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide, in tabular form, the annual salary of all non-commercial State-sponsored bodies' chief executive officers under the aegis of his Department. [34532/13]
View answerThe following table shows the annual salary of Chief Executive Officers of the non-commercial State-sponsored bodies under the aegis of my Department at 30 June 2013. The Deputy should note that these salaries are subject to the reductions specified in the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2013 and were reduced accordingly with effect from 1 July 2013.
|
Agency |
Annual Salary |
Annual Salary |
|
PPC |
Non- PPC |
|
|
IDA Ireland |
€189,115 |
€179,659 |
|
Enterprise Ireland |
€189,115 |
€179,659 |
|
Science Foundation Ireland |
€180,109 |
€175,999 |
|
Shannon Free Airport Development Co. Ltd. |
€154,183 |
€146,473 |
|
The National Standards Authority of Ireland |
€154,183 |
€146,473 |
|
The Health and Safety Authority |
€153,885 |
€146,191 |
|
Forfás |
€189,115 |
€179,659 |
|
The County Enterprise Boards |
N/A |
€67,115 to €87,126 |
|
Irish Auditing and Accounting Supervisory Authority |
€132,511 |
€125,886 |
|
The Personal Injuries Assessment Board |
€168,379 |
€159,959 |
|
The National Consumer Agency |
€137,554 |
€130,676 |
|
The Competition Authority |
€164,464 |
€156,240 |
|
The Labour Relations Commission |
€176,800 |
€168,000 |
455. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide, in tabular form, a list of all professional fees, including but not limited to legal, consultancy, IT related, advisory, advertising and accountancy; the company name and the amount invoiced between 1 June 2012 and 31 May 2013. [34548/13]
View answer457. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide the annual saving to the Exchequer of a 20% reduction in all professional fees, including but not limited to legal, consultancy, IT related, advisory, advertising and accountancy; the company name and the amount invoiced between 1 June 2012 and 31 May 2013. [34580/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 455 and 457 together.
Professional fees incurred 1 January 2013 to 31 May 2013
|
Name of Company/Service Provider |
Cost - € |
|
Arekibo Communications Ltd |
61.50 |
|
Artefact |
984.00 |
|
Barry Galvin |
440.07 |
|
Brendan Byrne |
125.00 |
|
Cyril O’Neill Legal Costs Accountants |
678.96 |
|
Declan Murphy |
15,842.40 |
|
John Madden |
260.00 |
|
John McCarroll |
21,463.50 |
|
KellKee Services |
1,164.92 |
|
Michelle Madden |
260.00 |
|
Pat Foley |
165.00 |
|
Paul Anthony McDermott |
2,460.00 |
|
Paul O’Higgins |
3,997.50 |
|
Peter Fallon |
748.94 |
|
Peter Fitzpatrick & Co. Legal Costs Accountants |
4,323.45 |
|
Rochford Brady Legal Services |
5,284.18 |
|
Tanika Design Ltd |
2,595.30 |
|
Bibby Financial Services (Ireland) Limited |
7,952.08 |
|
Digicom |
3,785.29 |
|
DNM Technology Limited |
522.75 |
|
Enterprise Registry Solutions Ltd |
417,064.10 |
|
Qualcom Systems Ltd |
8,680.03 |
|
Sabeo Technologies |
4,062.69 |
|
Ardilaun Electrical |
1,986.00 |
|
Arekibo |
4,582.00 |
|
Baker Consulting |
15,793.00 |
|
Beirne AV |
4,252.00 |
|
Bizquip |
1,089.00 |
|
Client Solutions |
14,302.00 |
|
Dell Computers Ireland |
5,373.00 |
|
Parallel Internet Ltd (pTools Software) |
2,433.00 |
|
Paul McCann T/A CRES |
368.00 |
|
Plannet21 Communications |
10,555.00 |
|
Rits |
7,531.00 |
|
Shannonside Audio/Video Ltd. |
2,926.00 |
|
Sword SA |
158,109.00 |
|
Ward Solutions |
1,999.00 |
|
Zinopy |
2,510.00 |
|
Martin Lynch |
3,384.90 |
|
Francis Rochford |
9,239.03 |
|
Ebow |
11,872.00 |
|
Four Point Solutions EMEA Ltd |
12,424.50 |
|
ServeCentric |
3,468.60 |
|
System Dynamics Ltd |
14,391.00 |
|
Baker Consultants Ltd |
295.20 |
|
Behan & Associates Legal Cost Accountants |
3,610.00 |
|
Fujitsu |
7,211.00 |
|
Brendan Moran |
1,249.00 |
|
VSR |
2,516.00 |
|
Print Services |
443.00 |
|
Walsh Graphic Design |
208.00 |
|
Brunswick Press |
319.00 |
|
Bibby Financial Services |
5,319.00 |
|
Keatings & Assoc |
1,661.00 |
|
Context |
269.00 |
|
Lionbridge |
357.00 |
|
Terminal Four |
1,579.00 |
|
Philip Rahn |
7,015.92 |
|
Shelly Horan |
861.00 |
|
A&L Goodbody |
59,745.00 |
|
Claire Bruton |
1,236.00 |
|
Arthur Cox |
5,712.00 |
|
Donal Dunne |
1,449.00 |
|
Frank Nyhan & Assoc |
6,672.00 |
|
Gerald Meaney |
2,460.00 |
|
Gerard O’Brien |
1,284.00 |
|
John Brosnan & Co |
1,273.00 |
|
John Madden |
125.00 |
|
Kennedy Fitzgerald |
1,503.00 |
|
Leahy & Partners |
2,806.00 |
|
Millards |
923.00 |
|
John Hughes |
3,871.00 |
|
Niamh Tuite |
1,463.00 |
|
Noel A Farrell |
1,035.00 |
|
O’Doherty Warren & Assoc |
1,175.00 |
|
Peter D Jones |
5,814.00 |
|
Rory Hayden & Co |
3,571.00 |
|
Rory P Benville |
8,268.00 |
|
Steen O’Reilly |
1,415.00 |
|
Wolfe & Co |
2,254.00 |
|
Artemis Consulting Ltd. |
1,476.00 |
|
Prof. Josh Lerner |
4,988.75 |
The total amount of fees for 1 January to 31 May 2013 is €944,941.60 - 20% of this amount is €188,988.20.
Professional fees incurred 1 June 2012 to 31 December 2012
|
Name of Company/Service Provider |
Cost - € |
|
ABC Investigations Ltd |
1,692.48 |
|
Arekibo Communications Ltd |
2,998.13 |
|
Barry Galvin |
1,460.78 |
|
Brendan Byrne |
715.00 |
|
Brian Murray |
2,150.04 |
|
Brian P. Farren |
56,580.00 |
|
Brosnan Investigations Ltd |
147.60 |
|
Clever Cat Design |
842.55 |
|
Cyril O’Neill Legal Costs Accountants |
13,818.44 |
|
Declan Kelly |
143.20 |
|
Declan Murphy |
23,136.20 |
|
Denis McDonald |
12,560.76 |
|
J+A Davis |
470.34 |
|
KellKee Services |
739.20 |
|
Maurice G. Collins |
27,060.00 |
|
Paul Anthony McDermott |
9,840.00 |
|
Paul O’Higgins |
3,997.50 |
|
Peter Fitzpatrick & Co Legal Costs Accountants |
10,307.40 |
|
PricewaterhouseCoopers |
40,646.58 |
|
Rochford Brady Legal Services |
9,158.98 |
|
Shelly Horan |
7,334.49 |
|
Tom Power |
1,845.00 |
|
Bibby Financial Services (Ireland) Limited |
504.20 |
|
BT Communications Ireland Ltd |
6,519.00 |
|
CTS – Corporate Translation Services |
2,895.37 |
|
Digicom |
4,686.25 |
|
DNM Technology Limited |
24,216.40 |
|
Enterprise Registry Solutions Ltd |
646,535.07 |
|
FCR Media Limited |
2,554.34 |
|
Sabeo Technologies |
27,800.02 |
|
SIRA Consulting |
74,000.00 |
|
Lifeskills Training |
2,100.00 |
|
Workstation Analysis |
1,400.00 |
|
Integrated Risk Solutions |
12,748.95 |
|
Fitzpatrick Associates Economic Consultants |
23,708.00 |
|
Advance Systems (IRL) |
2,756.00 |
|
Ardilaun |
3,972.00 |
|
Arekibo Communications |
4,877.00 |
|
Baker Consultants Limited |
55,153.00 |
|
Bizquip |
1,089.00 |
|
Client Solutions |
20,457.00 |
|
Hibernia Services |
6,464.00 |
|
Integrity Solutions |
15,836.00 |
|
Local Government Management Agency |
5,595.00 |
|
Plannet21 Communications |
18,858.00 |
|
pTools Software (Parallel Internet) |
31,780.00 |
|
Rits |
12,142.00 |
|
Site Improve |
1,676.00 |
|
Sword |
217,222.00 |
|
Trigraph |
2,445.00 |
|
Unity Technology |
426.00 |
|
Version 1 |
29,520.00 |
|
Ward Solutions |
22,506.00 |
|
Martin Lynch |
6,166.06 |
|
Design Printworks Ltd |
2,051.03 |
|
Achilles Procurement Services Ltd |
2,559.94 |
|
Terminal Four Solutions Ltd |
832.30 |
|
Four Point Solutions EMEA Ltd |
27,368.15 |
|
Mairead Carey |
6,789.60 |
|
ServeCentric |
4,856.04 |
|
System Dynamics Ltd |
9,594.00 |
|
Fujitsu |
12,892.00 |
|
Access Expert |
1,148.00 |
|
Brendan Moran |
492.00 |
|
Print Services |
123.00 |
|
Walsh Graphic Design |
180.00 |
|
Brunswick Press |
92.00 |
|
Hudson Killeen |
594.00 |
|
Bibby Financial Services |
1,554.00 |
|
Keating & Assoc |
2,214.00 |
|
Context |
989.00 |
|
Eurotext |
261.00 |
|
Lionbridge |
316.00 |
|
Terminal Four |
3,174.00 |
|
AD Little |
30,000.00 |
|
Deloitte |
30,772.62 |
|
Paul Coughlan |
4,270.00 |
|
Andrew Parkes |
420.00 |
|
Power Design |
4,946.70 |
|
Brian Murray |
12,730.50 |
|
Paul Anthony McDermott |
1,230.00 |
|
Paul O’Higgins |
1,230.00 |
|
Shelly Horan |
615.00 |
|
Úna Ní Raifeartaigh |
2,178.12 |
|
John Hennessy |
60,100.50 |
|
Michael McDowell |
11,685.00 |
|
Kilroys Solicitors |
2,498.70 |
|
Kilroys Solicitors |
2,769.56 |
|
Noel J Travers |
2,736.75 |
|
Conor Feeney |
2,675.25 |
|
Siobhan Phelan |
302.50 |
|
A&L Goodbody |
98,154.00 |
|
Conor Power |
799.50 |
|
Anthony Kerr |
646.00 |
|
Arthur Cox |
18,955.00 |
|
DH Sheridan & Co |
2,985.00 |
|
Donal Dunne |
4,023.00 |
|
Frank Nyhan & Assoc |
6,612.00 |
|
Gerald Meaney |
4,963.00 |
|
Geraldine Gillece |
3,127.00 |
|
Gerard O’Brien |
1,348.00 |
|
James A Boyle |
1,273.00 |
|
John Brosnan & Co |
5,830.00 |
|
Kennedy Fitzgerald |
923.00 |
|
Kieran Madigan |
1,273.00 |
|
Leahy & Partners |
8,789.00 |
|
Malachy Boohig & Co |
1,273.00 |
|
John Hughes |
3,336.00 |
|
O’Doherty Warren & Assoc |
928.00 |
|
Peter D Jones |
3,140.00 |
|
Rory Hayden & Co |
1,303.00 |
|
Rory P Benville |
8,661.00 |
|
Rosemary Healy Rae |
615.00 |
|
Shaun Boylan |
2,992.00 |
|
Steen O’Reilly |
2,829.00 |
|
Vincent Deane |
2,546.00 |
The total amount of fees for 1 January to 31 December 2012 is €2,199,130.44 - 20% of this amount is €439,826.
456. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide, in tabular form, a breakdown of all third level courses, training programmes and courses and accompanying cost for the 2012-13 academic year, 1 September 2012 to 30 June 2013, provided for employees of his Department. [34564/13]
View answerThe information requested by the Deputy is tabulated.
Third Level Course provided for employees of DJEI 1 September 2012 to 30 June 2013
|
Name of course |
Cost |
|
Undergraduate Level |
|
|
Certificate in Civil Service & State Agency |
€5,187 |
|
Certificate in Data Protection |
€1,110 |
|
Certificate in Public Procurement |
€4,500 |
|
Professional Certificate in SME credit |
€1,500 |
|
Diploma in Civil Service & State Agencies |
€2,822 |
|
Diploma in Corporate, White Collar and Regulatory Crime |
€3,600 |
|
Diploma Company Law |
€1,250 |
|
Diploma in Legal Studies |
€986 |
|
BA in Business |
€1,500 |
|
BA (Hons) Business Information Systems |
€2,750 |
|
BA in Business Management |
€2,750 |
|
BA (Hons) in Business Management |
€2,500 |
|
BA in Business Studies & Human Resources |
€5,960 |
|
BA in Human Resource Management |
€5,640 |
|
BA in Management Practice |
€3,800 |
|
BA in Law |
€5,500 |
|
BA (Hons) in Law |
€2,000 |
|
Name of course |
Cost |
|
LL.B in Irish Law |
€300 |
|
LLB (Hons) in Irish Law |
€6,913 |
|
BA in Public Management |
€13,395 |
|
BA (Hons) in Social Science |
€1,720 |
|
BSc/Diploma in Information Systems |
€5,970 |
|
Postgraduate Level |
|
|
Professional Diploma in Employment Law |
€13,800 |
|
Diploma in Leadership |
€5,950 |
|
Leadership Challenge Programme |
€5,300 |
|
Diploma in Official Statistics for Policy Evaluation |
€1,450 |
|
Postgrad. Dip in Public Management |
€10,000 |
|
MA in HR Management |
€5,000 |
|
MA in Public Management |
€3,180 |
|
MSc in Business |
€3,540 |
|
MSc in Economic Policy Studies |
€9,699 |
|
MSc in Management |
€7,850 |
|
Total Cost Third-level Courses |
€147,422 |
Other Training Courses and Programmes provided for employees of DJEI 1 September 2012 to 30 June 2013
|
Name of course |
Cost |
|
Administering Cisco Unified Communications Manager Training |
€3,500 |
|
Automated External Defibrillator Training |
€426 |
|
Assessing SME Viability in a Distressed Economy |
€3,000 |
|
Communicating Effectively by Telephone |
€0 |
|
Communication & Assertiveness |
€3,100 |
|
Configuration Manager training course |
€1,375 |
|
CPD Session Management & Professional Development |
€550 |
|
CREST Procedure |
€0 |
|
CREST Training |
€0 |
|
Criminal Litigation |
€540 |
|
Data Protection Level 1 |
€185 |
|
Deaf Awareness Workshop |
€960 |
|
Dublin Meridian Programme |
€5,500 |
|
E Docs Laid |
€0 |
|
Effective Meeting Skills |
€900 |
|
Employment Law |
€570 |
|
Equality Complaints Processing |
€0 |
|
Evacuation Chair Operator |
€0 |
|
Facilitation Skills |
€0 |
|
Name of course |
Cost |
|
Family Law Acts |
€0 |
|
Fire Safety |
€545 |
|
Fire Warden Training |
€0 |
|
French |
€725 |
|
Human Rights Training for Trainers |
€0 |
|
Induction Training |
€0 |
|
Intermediate Excel |
€375 |
|
Intermediate/Advanced Word |
€375 |
|
Internal Auditing a beginner's course |
€2,581 |
|
Interviewer Skills |
€1,300 |
|
Introduction to Excel |
€375 |
|
Introduction to Internal Audit |
€3,240 |
|
Introduction to Procurement |
€0 |
|
Introduction to Project Management |
€2,300 |
|
Introduction to the EU |
€0 |
|
Legislative Process |
€0 |
|
Manual Handling |
€0 |
|
MS Project Essentials Course |
€715 |
|
New Single Public Service Pension Scheme |
€288 |
|
Occupational First Aid Refresher Course |
€375 |
|
Online ICT Technical Training |
€10,640 |
|
Oracle Database 11G - Admin Workshop |
€2,950 |
|
Oracle Training |
€3,250 |
|
PMDS Information Session |
€0 |
|
PQ Training |
€0 |
|
PR Training |
€1,900 |
|
Pre - Retirement Course |
€0 |
|
Presentation Skills |
€2,200 |
|
Press Release Training |
€400 |
|
Problem Solving and Decision Making |
€2,700 |
|
Project Management |
€2,300 |
|
Public Sector & Family Law Pensions |
€351 |
|
Records Management |
€0 |
|
Safe Pass |
€100 |
|
Speed - Smarter Reading |
€2,225 |
|
Stress Management |
€2,510 |
|
Teamwork |
€850 |
|
Techniques for Effective Testing |
€910 |
|
Telephone Skills |
€600 |
|
Time Management |
€0 |
|
Understanding Published Accounts |
€5,250 |
|
Whiteboard Training |
€480 |
|
WRCS Information Officer Training |
€0 |
|
Writing Skills |
€2,095 |
|
Total Cost Other Courses and Programmes |
€75,511 |
|
Grand Total |
€222,933 |
These data represent training courses and programmes provided centrally by my Department in the period 1 September 2012 to 30 June 2013 and provided by Offices of my Department in the period 1 September 2012 to 31 March 2013 – data for training provided by the Offices in Q2 2013 are not yet available.
Training shown at nil cost includes the following: training provided in-house by Departmental staff; training provided by the Training Policy Unit of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform; places offered by training providers free of charge.
458. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide, in tabular form, the annual saving to the Exchequer of a 1%, 5%, 7%, 10%, 12%, 15%, 17% and 20% reduction in travel and expenses for his Department. [34596/13]
View answerThe following table sets out the Travel and Subsistence expenditure for this Department for 2012 with the percentage reductions as requested by the Deputy. It is important to note that the figure of €454,000 includes the vouched costs of flights and other forms of travel, hotel and other expenses along with mileage and subsistence payments made in accordance with the rates governed by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
|
2012 expenditure |
1% |
5% |
7% |
10% |
12% |
15% |
17% |
20% |
|
€454,000 |
€4,540 |
€22,700 |
€31,780 |
€45,400 |
€54,480 |
€68,100 |
€77,180 |
€90,800 |
459. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide, in tabular form, the annual saving to the Exchequer of a 5%, 7%, 10%, 12%, 15%, 17% and 20% reduction in training and development for his Department. [34612/13]
View answerIn the most recent full financial year of 2012, my Department spent a total of €237,564 on training and development. This was a relatively modest investment in business-relevant skills development of the staff of the Department (864 currently - 810.38 full time equivalents). It is essential for delivery of the critical strategic mission of my Department that the staff have the necessary skills. A substantial proportion of expenditure in the area relates to the refund of fees to staff pursuing business related educational courses outside of normal working hours. The percentages of this spend requested by the Deputy are outlined in the following table.
DJEI Training and Development Expenditure in 2012 - €237,564
|
Percentage |
Amount |
|
5% |
€11,878 |
|
7% |
€16,629 |
|
10% |
€23,756 |
|
12% |
€28,508 |
|
15% |
€35,635 |
|
17% |
€40,386 |
|
20% |
€47,513 |
460. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide, in tabular form, the annual saving to the Exchequer if all his special advisers' pay was capped at the first point of the principal officer grade; if he will provide a list of all salaries, post-implementation of the Haddington Road agreement paid to his special advisers. [34628/13]
View answerAdjustments to pay in accordance with the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2013 and the relevant provisions of the Haddington Road Agreement have been implemented from 1 July 2013. The following table outlines the salary details of the two Special Advisers appointed by me as Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation in line with the Guidelines for Ministerial Appointments and as sanctioned by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.
|
Name |
Salary Scale from 1/7/13 |
Current Salary (11/07/13) |
Estimated Annual Saving if Pay Capped at 1st point on Principal Officer Scale* |
|
Special Adviser |
€118,840 |
€118,840 |
€43,193 |
|
Press Adviser |
€75,647 - €92,550 |
€81,676 |
€6,029 |
*Based on 1 July 2013 pay rates
461. Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation when the review of the BMW region grants system will be undertaken; if submissions from interested groups, commercial and industrial interests will be permitted; the formula that will be applied regarding the review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34666/13]
View answerI believe the Deputy is referring to the mapping exercise associated with the Regional Aid Guidelines, which were adopted by the Commission on 19 June 2013. Regional Aid, also known as investment aid, is paid in the form of grants by the industrial development agencies to businesses in order to support new investment and new employment in productive projects in Europe's most disadvantaged regions. Such aid must be in accordance with each countries Regional Aid Map, as approved by the European Commission, which has responsibility for the Regional Aid Guidelines.
The new guidelines will enter into force on 1 July 2014. As a result, the current guidelines that were due to expire at the end of this year are to be extended for six month transition period. For the 2014-2020 Regional Aid Map Ireland’s population coverage will rise from 50% to 51.28%. This is due to the overall share of regions where regional aid can be granted increasing from the current level of 46.1% to 47.2 % of the EU population. This means that enhanced investment grants can be paid to companies in the least economically developed regions of Ireland.
A revised Irish Regional Aid Map will have to be submitted to and approved by the Commission before the end of June 2014. For the 2014-2020 Irish Regional Aid Map, economic data such as unemployment and Gross Domestic Product for all counties, including those counties in the BMW region, will once again be analysed afresh when deciding which counties will be designated for Regional Aid. During the Regional Aid Guideline process thus far, my Department has consulted relevant stakeholders, including various Government Departments, the industrial development agencies, Údarás na Gaeltachta, Forfás, the Central Statistics Office, the Border Midland and Western Regional Assembly, the Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly, and the eight Regional Authorities. Further consultation will now take place with the above bodies and other relevant stakeholders. The deadline for the submission of the Irish map has yet to be communicated by the Commission.
462. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide, in tabular form, the commitments in the programme for Government within his remit; if the commitment has been met or is in the process of being met; the estimated time for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34683/13]
View answerThe timeline for delivery of commitments under the Programme for Government, is over the lifetime of this Government. The position in relation to progress under each commitment, within the remit of my Department, is set out in the following table.
Commitments in Programme for Government
|
Commitment |
Progress to Date |
|
1.2.4 Reverse the cut in the minimum wage |
Cut reversed on July 1st 2011 |
|
1.2.6 Implement a number of sectoral initiatives in areas that will create employment in the domestic economy |
Through the Action Plan for Jobs(APJ), a number of sectoral initiatives have been developed or are in progress, including in the following areas: - Green Economy - Manufacturing - Construction - Retail - Health/Life Sciences - Digital Games Details of progress on each of these initiatives are contained in the quarterly progress reports on the APJ which are published on the Department's website www.djei.ie. |
|
1.4.2 We will create a new ‘Home to Export’ programme to share the expertise of exporting companies with firms currently reliant on domestic markets. Commitment met |
Enterprise Ireland has an ongoing range of services to encourage new exporters, including online support and mentoring. In 2012, Enterprise Ireland established the Potential Exporters Division. Its role is to stimulate greater activity within companies across all regions and to reorient those demonstrating growth potential from the domestic to the international marketplace. |
|
1.4.3 A ‘Source Ireland’ portal will be developed to market Irish goods and services abroad. Commitment met |
A ‘Source Ireland’ portal has been developed to market Irish goods and services abroad. |
|
1.5.2 We will support our indigenous digital game industry by reforming R&D supports available to the industry, setting aside funding from Innovation Fund Ireland for a seed capital scheme for Irish digital gaming start-ups, introduce a digital media component to Transition Year programmes and promote Ireland as digital gaming hub |
The Department is currently working with the Digital Games Clustering Development Team for the purpose of assessing the suitability of the existing R&D tax Credit to the digital games sector. The Department is also assessing the case for a new financial instrument/relief to incentivise creative content development in the games sector. The intention is to complete this assessment in the timeframe for Budget 2014. Enterprise Ireland has confirmed that a number of the existing venture capital funds, along with those new funds coming on stream, have and will continue to invest in a range of software related projects including businesses in the digital game space. EI’s Competitive Start Fund (€50K Equity) has had a significant impact on the early stage indigenous games sector since December 2010. Over this period, EI has completed 10 calls and has funded 16 Games companies. In addition Enterprise Ireland and the National Pensions Reserve Fund have made available up to €250m in equal amounts to attract investment by international venture capital funds in Ireland under the Innovation Fund Ireland . The Department of Education and Skills has explained that schools design their own programmes for TY and, consequently, may be providing courses that address digital media. |
|
1.5.5 We will develop a National Intellectual Property (IP) protocol to give predictability about the terms on which business can access IP created in Higher Education Institutions and the wider digital sector |
The IP Protocol was published in June 2012, the purpose of which is to help the enterprise sector to access the research done in Ireland’s universities, institutes of technology and other public research institutions. A key recommendation of the report centres around the establishment of a ‘central Technology Transfer Office’ to provide an effective interface between industry and the research community and to drive a world class technology transfer system in Ireland, ensuring it is responsive to the needs of both industry and academia. The recruitment of the Director of the cTTO is nearing completion and support staff for the cTTO are in place. |
|
1.5.6 We will promote and support investment in technology research, development and commercialisation beyond basic research supported by Science Foundation Ireland, as well as removing barriers to innovation and accelerate exploitation of new technologies. |
The IP Protocol, referred to above, will support both industry parties and research performing organisations in making their commercial negotiations on the exploitation of new technologies and ideas faster, more consistent and more transparent |
|
1.5.7 We will target key technology areas and sectors where innovation can be applied including but not limited to high value manufacturing, advanced materials, nanotechnology, bioscience, electronics, photonics and electrical systems and information and communication technology. |
The report of the Research Prioritisation Steering Group recommended 14 areas of opportunity as well as underpinning technologies and infrastructure to support these priority areas which should receive the majority of competitive public investment in STI over the coming 5 years. Following publication of the report on 1st March 2012, the Prioritisation Action Group (PAG) was established, under the chairmanship and political leadership of the Minister for Research and Innovation Sean Sherlock TD, to drive implementation of research prioritisation under the broader authority of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Recovery and Jobs. Action Plans to drive implementation have been developed for each priority area and were approved by Government in June 2013. The PAG will oversee implementation of these Action Plans. A detailed Framework of Metrics and Targets has been drawn up as part of Research Prioritisation to measure the outputs and impact of funding provided, which will comprehend all of the 14 Action Plans for the respective Priority Areas, and this too was approved by Government in June 2013. |
|
1.5.8 We will also focus on the application of technological innovation in established sectors of the economy like energy generation and supply, transport, creative industries, high-value services and architecture and construction by identifying challenges, establishing priorities and developing strategies which specify necessary actions to transition to more innovative approach. |
See 1.5.7 above in relation to Research Prioritisation |
|
1.5.9 We will promote Ireland’s full engagement with the ‘Innovative Union’ proposals issued by the European Commission in October 2010 as one of the seven flagship initiatives under EU2020 Strategy, with the specific aim of refocusing R&D and innovation policy on major challenges and at turning inventions into products. |
The Irish EU Presidency completed negotiations on a political agreement on Horizon 2020, the next EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation which will focus EU research funding from 2014-2020 on major societal challenges. The Irish EU Presidency also focused on measures to progress the European Research Area, a key component of Innovation Union. Ireland will continue to engage fully with initiatives proposed by the European commission in support of the Innovation Union strategy. |
|
1.5.10 We will establish a network of Technology Research Centres focused on applied technological research in specific areas, to be linked to appropriate higher-education institutions. The centres will accelerate exploitation of new technologies by providing infrastructure that bridges gap between research and technology commercialisation. We will initially establish 3 additional centres focusing on biotechnology, nanotechnology and high value manufacturing. Further centres from a number of other areas will be selected at a later time. |
The Irish EU Presidency completed negotiations on a political agreement on Horizon 2020, the next EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation which will focus EU research funding from 2014-2020 on major societal challenges. The Irish EU Presidency also focused on measures to progress the European Research Area, a key component of Innovation Union. Ireland will continue to engage fully with initiatives proposed by the European commission in support of the Innovation Union strategy. |
|
1.5.11 We will support the development of an International Content Services Centre to make Ireland world leader in managing intellectual property. |
The Department commissioned a Feasibility Study as part of the deliberative process around this proposal. The study was finalised in January 2013 and following consideration, proposals will be developed regarding the next steps to be taken resulting from the findings of the study |
|
1.5.12 We will pioneer within the EU a model of ‘fair use’ in European Copyright Law, like in the USA, which effectively permits the use of portions of a copyrighted work so long as the normal economic exploitation of the originating work is not undermined. This will allow internet companies and other digital innovators to bring their services to market. |
The US style “fair use” doctrine is being examined as part of the on- going review of copyright legislation by the Independent Copyright Review Committee, in accordance with its Terms of Reference . On completion of the Report, and following consideration of the recommendations, a recommendation regarding introduction of the doctrine will be made to Government. |
|
1.6.3 We will reform the Joint Labour Committee structure, beginning with the appointment of independent chairpersons to JLCs, who will retain a casting vote. Reform options will examine the rate of pay for atypical hours. |
Industrial Relations (Amendment) Act 2012 came into effect on 1st August 2012*. The Act provided for a reform of the statutory wage setting mechanisms (JLCs and REAs), Review of the existing JLCs was carried out by the Labour Court and presented to the Minister. The Minister intends to publish the Review along with his proposals shortly. *The Supreme Court judgment of May 9th 2013 in the case of McGowan and others, Part III of the Industrial Relations Act 1946 to be unconstitutional thereby invalidating the registration of all REAs that were previously registered under the 1946 Act. Minister has announced his intention to put in place, as soon as possible, legislation that will be fully informed by the Supreme Court judgment. |
|
1.6.6 We will reduce the cost of Government imposed red-tape on business, in part by streamlining regulatory enforcement activities out of a merger and rationalisation of existing structures. We will create a Business Inspection and Licensing Authority that absorbs the existing business inspection activities of the Health and Safety Authority, and the National Consumer Agency. |
Significant progress has been made with a reduction in administrative burdens of 25% achieved in the areas of Employment Law, Company Law and Health & Safety Law; this amounts to potential annual savings for business of almost €208m million.My Department also coordinates the cross-Government measurement and reduction of administrative burdens towards the 25% target. The current estimated overall reduction is 19% which includes the 25% achieved by my Department, and the Revenue Commissioners and 30% achieved by the Central Statistics Office. The reform of the State's Workplace Relations Services will deliver a simplified two-tiered structure comprising a single body of first instance, the Workplace Relations Commission, and a single body of appeal, in effect an enhanced Labour Court. This proposal developed into a wider consideration of new measures to assist small businesses in their compliance with licensing and regulation, e.g. the Health & Safety Authority (HSA) developed and launched a single licensing portal for occupational health & safety and chemicals licensing requirements. See http://www.hsa.ie/eng/Topics/Business_Licensing_and_Notification_Requirements/ The HSA also developed “BeSMART” – a free online tool developed to help reduce costs for and the administrative burden on small business of meeting their legal obligations to prepare Risk Assessments and a Safety Statement under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 . Current estimates put potential savings for the SME sector as a whole in the region of €60-€65m. See http://www.besmart.ie/ |
|
1.6.8 We will develop a Unique Business Identifier for use by all government departments and agencies that will facilitate the sharing of information within Government and reduce repetitive information requests from businesses. |
This will be considered in the context of legislation to facilitate data sharing |
|
1.6.10 We will introduce new legally binding voluntary commercial debt plan structures to allow small businesses to restructure debts without recourse to expensive court procedures. |
The Company Law Review Group made recommendations in September 2012. Some of these recommendations are being implemented in the Companies Bill 2012, which has begun its enactment process. The remaining recommendations are to be the subject of further consideration by the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise & Innovation in consultation with the Minister for Justice and are to take account of the experience of the new Insolvency Service of Ireland. |
|
1.7.1 We will implement a temporary, partial credit guarantee scheme that will provide a level of insurance to banks against losses on qualifying loans to job-creating firms to get banks’ lending again to industry and entrepreneurs. Commitment met |
Fully implemented in Oct 2012 |
|
1.7.2 We will construct a €100 million Microfinance Start-Up Fund that will provide start-up loans and equity that draws funding from the NPRF and private institutional funds. Commitment met |
Fully implemented in Oct 2012 |
|
1.7.3 We will support the development of a more dynamic, venture capital industry in Ireland by seeking to attract top tier venture financing and investment companies to Ireland, such as Silicon Valley Bank. Commitment met |
To date, under the IFI scheme four international venture capital funds have established a presence in the Ireland market. A further numbers of investments are in the pipeline. Furthermore, following a separate initiative by the NPRF Silicon Valley Bank is set to deploy US$100 million of new lending commitments to fast-growing Irish technology, life science, cleantech, private equity and venture capital businesses over five years, subject to its usual lending criteria. |
|
1.7.4 We will work to promote a greater appreciation of the co-operative model as a distinct form of organisation, ensure a level playing field between co-operatives and the other legal options for structuring enterprise activities, and provide a conductive framework for the full potential of the co-operative model to be realised, including in areas such as childcare, education, housing, energy retrofitting, environmental protection, transport and healthcare. |
Legislation has been drafted to facilitate this commitment. This commitment goes across a number of Departments. |
|
1.8.7 We will legislate to ban a number of unfair trading practices in the retail sector, such as ‘hello money’ from food suppliers. |
Publication of Bill expected in Q3/Q4 2013 |
|
1.8.25 We will seek to establish Ireland as a renewable manufacturing hub to attract international and domestic investment. |
In November 2012, the Government published a Policy Statement on Growth and Employment in the Green Economy which has the objective of attracting investment in the Green Economy in Ireland. A Consultative Committee on Jobs in the Green Economy has also been established to identify emerging opportunities for Ireland in the Green Economy. |
|
1.9.1 The Government will promote the development of a vibrant and effective social enterprise sector. We will instruct agencies to view social enterprises as important stakeholders in rejuvenating local economies. We will continue support for social innovation projects for young people trough (sic) education, community and voluntary structures. |
Forfas prepared a Report on the potential of the Social Enterprise Sector in Ireland. The report highlights the fact that social enterprises cover a wide spectrum of activity and are currently supported by a number of Departments and agencies. The Forfas Report will be submitted to Government, prior to publication. |
|
2.3.19 We will make good corporate governance the law, not an optional extra, and enact legislation to provide for binding code of practice for corporate governance, which will be obligatory for companies wishing to be listed on Irish stock exchange. Commitment met |
Companies that wish to list on the main market of the Irish Stock Exchange must comply by law with the UK’s Corporate Governance Code and the Irish Annex. |
|
2.10.4 We will strengthen corporate governance legislation and enforcement. |
The Companies Bill 2012 replicates the provisions of the Companies (Amendment) Act 2009 which granted additional powers to the ODCE to assist with enforcing Company Law. Additionally the Bill categorises and clarifies all offences under Company Law. As a result of the categorisation of offences and the introduction of uniform maximum fines and terms of imprisonment, a number of existing offences will carry higher penalties under the Bill. The Companies Bill 2012 has completed Second Stage in the Dáil |
|
3.41.6 We will reform the current law on employees’ right to engage in collective bargaining (the Industrial Relations (Amendment) Act 2001), so as to ensure compliance by the State with recent judgements of the European Court of Human Rights. |
Consultation process initiated December 2012. Written submissions received from stakeholders. Follow up meetings held. Legislative proposals to be presented to Cabinet in Q4 2013. |
|
4.13.5 We will review and update Intellectual Property legislation currently in place to benefit innovation, develop a National Intellectual Property protocol to give clarity about terms on which business can access IP created in Higher Education Institutions, and clarify legislation relating to online copyright infringement and enforcement of rights relating to digital communications. |
Re IP protocol- see 1.5.5 and 1.5.6 above The independent Copyright Review Committee is , in accordance with its Terms of Reference , examining the current Copyright legislative framework to identify any areas of the legislation that might be deemed to create barriers to innovation and will make recommendations to resolve any problems identified (see ref. 1.5.12 above); Re: IP Protocol –see 1.5.5 and 1.5.6 above; Re: clarification of legislation relating to copyright infringement and enforcement: the European Union (Copyright and Related Rights) Regulations came into force in February 2012, clarifying that an injunction may be sought against intermediaries whose services are being used by third parties to infringe a copyright or related right. |
|
4.15.3 We will enact the Fair Trade Act, which will ban a number of unfair trading practices in the retail sector such as ‘hello money’ which suppliers have to pay to secure a place for their goods on supermarket shelves. |
Publication of Bill expected in Q3/Q4 2013 |
463. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will detail, in tabular form, the names of all external public relations, communications consultants and organisations used by organisations or agencies within the remit of his Department since 9 March 2011; the details of the services supplied by each; the expenditure on each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34699/13]
View answerExternal public relations, communications consultants and organisations used by Agencies of my Department and expenditure and services supplied, is a day-to-day matter for the individual Agencies concerned for which I have no direct function. I am referring the specific question to each of the Agencies within my remit with a request to respond to you directly.
464. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his plans to make a submission to the European Commission based on its recent Green Paper publication on unfair trading practices in the business-to-business food and non-food supply chain in Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34930/13]
View answerOn 31 January 2013, the EU Commission published a Green Paper on Unfair Commercial Trading Practices in the Business to Business (B2B) food and non-food supply chain in Europe. In response to this Green Paper, my Department submitted a copy of the report of the facilitator appointed in 2010 to explore, with the relevant stakeholders, the possibilities of achieving agreement on a Voluntary Code of Practice for Grocery Goods Undertakings. This report is available on my Department’s website at www.djei.ie/publications/commerce/2011/reportgrocerycodemay11.pdf.
As the Deputy is aware, the Programme for Government contains a specific commitment to enact legislation to regulate certain practices in the grocery goods sector. I intend to give effect to this commitment by including an enabling provision in the Consumer and Competition Bill. This Bill will also, inter alia, merge the National Consumer Agency and the Competition Authority, update and reform competition law on foot of a review of the operation and implementation of the Competition Act 2002 and give effect to the recommendations of the Advisory Group on Media Mergers. Work on drafting the Consumer and Competition Bill is ongoing and the Bill is included in the "A list" in the Government's current Legislative Programme.
The Government is strongly of the view that it is important to ensure there is balance in the relationship between the various players in the grocery goods sector and that Ireland continues to have robust agri food and retail sectors, particularly given the importance of these sectors to the national economy. The introduction of a Code of Practice is intended to achieve such a balance taking into account the interests of all stakeholders in the grocery goods sector including the interests of the consumer and the need to ensure that there is no impediment to the passing-on of lower prices to consumers.
465. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he has sought and received legal advice outside the Office of the Attorney General; the number of times advice was sought per year in 2011, 2012 and to date in 2013; the costs of outside legal advice per year in 2011, 2012 and to date in 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34985/13]
View answerThe information requested by the Deputy for the period from 2011 to date in 2013 is set out in the following tables.
Legal Advice sought and received January 2013 to date 2013
|
Cost - € |
Number of times advice sought |
|
72,394.17 |
7 |
Legal Advice sought and received 2012
|
Cost - € |
Number of times advice sought |
|
251,538.29 |
26 |
Legal Advice sought and received 2011
|
Cost - € |
Number of times advice sought |
|
61,673.17 |
16 |
466. Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the position on a work permit in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35165/13]
View answerAn application for a Green Card Employment Permit was received in respect of the person named. This application was refused on 23 January 2013. Following a request for a review the refusal decision was upheld on the basis that the information on the application indicated that the employer was trading under a business name that was not registered with the Companies Registration Office. Registration of a business name is obligatory if any individual, partnership or body corporate is trading under a name other than their own true name. Under Section 13 of the employment Permits Act, 2006 it is not possible to revisit this application as the refusal decision has already been upheld on review. However a new application may be made and an employment permit may be granted subject to the normal criteria.
467. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the total amount of grant assistance made available by Enterprise Ireland to companies in County Limerick during 2012 and the first six months of 2013; the number of positions created by Enterprise Ireland companies in County Limerick in 2012 and the first six months of 2013, to include those that received funds for the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35186/13]
View answerEnterprise Ireland’s mission is to partner with entrepreneurs, Irish businesses, and the research and investment communities to develop Ireland’s international trade, innovation, leadership, and competitiveness. The ultimate objective is increased employment and prosperity in Ireland. The companies that Enterprise Ireland works with are a vital source of employment in every county in Ireland.
Grant payments made available to EI supported client companies in Limerick in 2012 and year to date 2013 is outlined in Table 1. Employment data for Enterprise Ireland are collected annually as part of the Forfás Annual Employment Survey. Employment figures for 2013 will be available when the survey is completed in Q4. The number of full-time jobs created by Enterprise Ireland’s client companies in Limerick in 2012 was 684.
Table 1: Payments made to EI client companies in Limerick
|
Year |
(€) |
|
2012 |
€3,175,023 |
|
Jan-Jun 2013 |
€352,764 |
468. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will detail the productivity performance of the manufacturing sector here in comparison with that of Northern Ireland for the past ten years for which data are available. [35305/13]
View answerManufacturing is an essential component of the Irish economy. Up to 2003, productivity in the manufacturing sector grew by between 4 per cent and 8 per cent per year. Since 2003, annual productivity growth has slowed to between 2 per cent and 4 per cent. This decline mirrors a similar trend in the sector in most of the developed world. However, productivity in manufacturing has been increasing over recent years. Annual average growth rates in per hour labour productivity across manufacturing sectors amounted to 5.6 per cent over the period 2007 to 2010 enhancing the competitiveness of Ireland’s firms on international markets. In 2012 goods exports increased by 1% over 2011, reaching a total of €92 billion, the highest figure since 2002.
In terms of employment, 50,000 jobs were lost in manufacturing in 2008-2010. However, numbers have stabilised over the last two years and there are now 205,700 people directly employed in manufacturing (both full-time and part-time), and a similar number of people employed indirectly.
Forfás recently produced a very thorough analysis of manufacturing in Ireland today - Manufacturing to 2020. This strategy contains a number of key recommendations for the development of the manufacturing sector which my Department, along with a Manufacturing Development Forum comprised of industry representatives, are currently implementing. It is clear from Forfás’ report that firms in the sector need to reposition themselves, to invest in identifying new market opportunities, to enhance their productivity and build innovative capacity so that they remain competitive and relevant to their existing and potential customers. To achieve these aims, a National Step Change initiative is needed that will assist Ireland’s manufacturing sector move to the forefront internationally and to improve competitiveness, productivity and innovation. This will also involve Government putting the right initiatives in place and opening up existing agency programmes - that have a proven track record - to FDI manufacturing firms e.g. Enterprise Ireland’s Lean. Work in this area is already under way.
Forfas’ Manufacturing Strategy does not contain a comparative analysis with the same sector in Northern Ireland. However, the NI Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment produced a report in March 2006 – The Future of Manufacturing in Northern Ireland – which observed that there was over £4.5 billion of manufacturing exports sales in Northern Ireland in 2004-05; that 12.5% of total direct employment in Northern Ireland was in manufacturing, and that the sector generated almost 30% of the total economic activity of Northern Ireland businesses. I am confident that the recommendations in Forfs’ Manufacturing Strategy’s will assist Government Departments and agencies with the important tasks facing Ireland’s manufacturing sector.
469. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the total value of exports to the North of Ireland and imports from the North of Ireland for the most recent five years. [35307/13]
View answerThe following table provides data on goods trade between Ireland and Northern Ireland from 2008 – 2012.
Ireland - Northern Ireland Trade
|
Year |
Exports - € m |
Imports - € m |
|
2008 |
1,564.53 |
1,261.31 |
|
2009 |
1,286.23 |
941.08 |
|
2010 |
1,326.14 |
989.72 |
|
2011 |
1,422.01 |
1,047.25 |
|
2012 |
1,448.90 |
1,029.06 |
The Central Statistics Office (CSO) provides services trade data for the United Kingdom as a whole and separate services data for Northern Ireland are not available.
470. Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the number of Enterprise Ireland supported jobs in Waterford for the years 2010, 2011, 2012 and to date in 2013 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35338/13]
View answerEnterprise Ireland’s mission is to partner with entrepreneurs, Irish businesses, and the research and investment communities to develop Ireland’s international trade, innovation, leadership, and competitiveness. The ultimate objective is increased employment and prosperity in Ireland. The companies that Enterprise Ireland works with are a vital source of employment in every county in Ireland.
Employment data for Enterprise Ireland are collected annually as part of the Forfás annual employment survey. Employment figures for 2013 will be available when the survey is completed in Q4. The number of jobs created by Enterprise Ireland’s client companies in Waterford in 2010, 2011 and 2012 is set out in Table 1.
Table 1 – EI Client Number of Jobs (Full Time), 2010-2012
|
Year |
Number of Jobs (Full Time) |
|
2010 |
3,919 |
|
2011 |
4,217 |
|
2012 |
4,063 |
