Brendan Griffin
Question:373. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the position regarding efforts to control Japanese knotweed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17265/14]
View answerNoxious Weeds
Questions (373)
Written answers
Japanese knotweed was first introduced to Ireland over 100 years ago. It forms dense thickets along roadsides, waste-grounds and waterways, reproduces by vegetative means and is difficult to kill off once it becomes established. This plant is included among the list of the 100 most invasive alien species of the world. The National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department has been working with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) to fund and manage the Invasive Species Ireland Project since 2006. This initiative provides advice and guidance on the management of a range of invasive species, including the species referred to, which can negatively impact on the environment and on property on the island of Ireland. This project is expected to be renewed in partnership with NIEA later this year.
Information on the distribution of the knotweed is available on the invasive species section of the National Biodiversity Data Centre website at http://maps.biodiversityireland.ie/
Best Practice Management Guidelines for Japanese Knotwood have been published and can be accessed on the project website at www.invasivespeciesireland.com. These guidelines provide practical advice to persons and organisations, including local authorities, on the removal and disposal of Japanese Knotweed. When dealing with Japanese Knotweed, it is critical to ensure that any viable rhizomes, the main means by which the plant spreads, are not given the chance to escape into the wider environment.
I should also point out that the National Roads Authority has produced guidelines that can assist local authorities on “The Management of Noxious Weeds and Non-Native Invasive Plant Species on National Roads” , which includes a section on the treatment of Japanese Knotweed.
The European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 includes provisions in relation to controlling the possession and dispersal of ecologically harmful and invasive species of animals and plants, including Japanese Knotweed. Regulation 50 of the Regulations, which include provisions relating to the banning for sale of invasive species listed in the Schedule to the Regulations, is not yet in effect. It is necessary for risk assessments to be carried out on those invasive species which are subject to trade before this element of the Regulations can be brought into force. The risk assessments are presently ongoing and I expect to be in a position to bring the relevant provisions into force during the summer.
Inland Waterways Development
Questions (374)
Mattie McGrath
Question:374. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if the review of all issues relating to the ongoing management of lakes in Muckross Park, Killarney, in particular its boating activities, has been completed; the position regarding the issuing of mooring permits and licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17272/14]
View answerWritten answers
My Department is reviewing all issues relating the management of the lakes in Killarney National Park, including all boating activities, with a view to developing a long-term sustainable strategy which will ensure that the boating activities are operated in an equitable and transparent way. The review is ongoing. Private boats on the lakes in the Park are regulated by way of mooring discs or pegs. In a scheme introduced in 1991, following lengthy consultation with interested parties, mooring discs were issued to all boat owners having a recognised traditional mooring right on the lakes, subject to an overall limit on the number of discs issued. It is considered that a limit is necessary so as to balance recreational use with the conservation imperative of flora and fauna of the lakes and surrounding areas, and also taking account of obligations under the EU Birds and Habitats Directives. My Department does not permit the casual placing of boats on the lakes on a daily basis, as boats and engines coming from outside the Park carry the risk of spreading invasive alien species such as zebra mussels and various pond weeds.
To facilitate others, persons applying for mooring pegs are placed on a waiting list and any pegs becoming available are allocated to those on the list. In order to facilitate the short-term accommodation of some of those on the waiting list, they are entered into a lottery each year for one of 20 temporary mooring pegs to use the lakes for one year. The 2014 lottery took place on 20th February last under the supervision of my officials and local angling club members. Offers of discs have issued to those persons drawn from the lottery.
My Department receives numerous requests for mooring spaces but, unfortunately the demand far exceeds the number of spaces available.
Departmental Legal Costs
Questions (375)
Niall Collins
Question:375. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the total legal costs incurred by his Department in 2011, 2012, 2013 and estimated in 2014. [17350/14]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy will be aware, my Department was established on 2 June 2011 and I am advised that legal services paid from my Department's Administrative Budget since that date is €6,195. For completeness, I would bring to the Deputy's attention that my Department makes payments from time to time to the Chief State Solicitor's Office in respect of legal services that it provides to my Department.
Public Relations Contracts Expenditure
Questions (376)
Niall Collins
Question:376. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the total external public relations costs incurred by his Department in 2011, 2012, 2013 and estimated in 2014. [17366/14]
View answerWritten answers
The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the table. It should be noted that my Department was established on 2 June 2011 and the information provided for 2011 relates to costs incurred from that date.
|
Year |
Cost € |
|
|
2011 |
84,148 |
|
|
2012 |
6,983 |
|
|
2013 |
Nil |
|
|
2014 estimated |
Nil |
|
|
Total |
91,131 |
Natural Heritage Areas Designation
Questions (377)
Willie Penrose
Question:377. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if the position regarding a bog which has been included in the NHA area (details supplied); if same can be cut by seeking appropriate permission; and if his Department is interested in purchasing some of the said bog from the owners thereof who may be willing to sell same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17418/14]
View answerWritten answers
The Review of Raised Bog Natural Heritage Areas, which is available to download from my Department’s website at http://www.ahg.gov.ie/en/Publications, provides detail on future arrangements regarding turf cutting on all those raised bog NHAs which are to be conserved, including the bog referred to by the Deputy. In the case of this bog, the review envisages the cessation of turf cutting on the site by 1 January 2017 to preserve its conservation value. Turf-cutting may continue on the bog until that date, on plots that have been cut in the five year period prior to the Government decision of 14 January 2014 in relation to the Review.
To ensure that cutting does not intensify over the next 3 years, owners of plots or of turbary rights who have cut over the past 5 years must obtain a permit from my Department. Contractors will also be obliged to obtain permits. My Department has written to all property holders who could be identified in relation to the NHA raised bogs to inform them of the results of the Review, including arrangements for obtaining permits to continue cutting and/or applying for compensation. In addition, notices outlining the outcome of the Review have been placed in local papers.
Any turf-cutter required to cease turf-cutting on an NHA is being offered compensatory measures similar to those available to turf-cutters from raised bog Special Areas of Conservation. Such compensation will be available to qualifying persons with effect from 2014.
The maximum payment available under the scheme is €23,000, made up of payments of €1,500 per annum (index linked) over 15 years with a once-off incentive payment of €500, upon completion of a legal agreement with me, as Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. As an alternative to financial payments and, where feasible, qualifying turf cutters will be facilitated in relocating to alternative non-designated sites to continue cutting turf.
Qualifying applicants who wish to take up the option of relocation may receive compensation until such time as alternative sites can be provided and the terms of the relocation will take into account any compensation received under the compensation scheme. These applicants may opt for the payment of €1,500, index-linked, or a supply of 15 tonnes of cut turf per annum, while awaiting relocation.
Application forms for the compensation scheme or for permits to continue cutting over the next 3 years are available from my Department. Relevant contact details are published on my Department’s websites.
My Department operated a voluntary bog purchase scheme, under which individuals with a legal interest in special areas of conservation or natural heritage areas could apply to sell their interest in these sites to my Department at set rates. This scheme is currently closed to new applicants. My Department is considering the position of those who had applied to sell their plots on NHA Raised Bogs before the scheme closed.
Commemorative Events
Questions (378)
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:378. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if plans for a new chapel in Glasnevin to celebrate the centenary of the 1916 Rising have been approved; if funding will be made available for this plan; if the chapel will be completed before the centenary of the 1916 Rising; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17721/14]
View answerWritten answers
I was very pleased to be associated with the recent announcement at the Royal Institute of Architects in Ireland (RIAI) of the winning design in the competition organised by Glasnevin Trust for a chapel development. This project is an initiative of the Trust and reflects the abiding commitment to provide services to the community and to continue the development of their properties as the national memorial centre.
I very much appreciate the work of Glasnevin Trust on education and heritage and on the protection of the graves of so many laid to rest in their care. I work very closely with Glasnevin Trust on centenary and other commemorations and would be pleased to see the chapel project included among the programme of partnership development works supported by the Government. Its inclusion is, however, resource dependent.
On 13 February last, the Minister of State at the Office of Public Works announced approval of the latest partnership project that will reinstate the stairs in the O'Connell monument restoring visitor access to the 168-foot tower at Glasnevin.
Seirbhísí trí Ghaeilge
Questions (379)
Michael P. Kitt
Question:379. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Michael P. Kitt den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta agus Gaeltachta an mbeidh seirbhísí stáit á gcur ar fáil as Gaeilge do phobal na Gaeilge ar chomhchaighdeán leis na seirbhísí as Béarla; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [17791/14]
View answerWritten answers
Mar a mhínigh mé sa fhreagra a thug mé ar Cheist Dála 145 ar 27 Feabhra 2014, is í an phríomhaidhm atá ag Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 ná feabhas a chur ar sholáthar seirbhísí poiblí trí Ghaeilge. Cuireann an tAcht bunús reachtúil i dtaca le seachadadh seirbhísí poiblí trí Ghaeilge faoi Alt 8 den Bhunreacht agus faoin dóigh ina bhfuil léirmhíniú déanta ag an gCúirt Uachtarach ar an alt sin. Ina theannta sin, cuireann an tAcht creat in áit chun seachadadh seirbhísí poiblí trí Ghaeilge a fheabhsú thar thréimhse ama sa dóigh is gur féidir leis an Stát a chuid dualgas a chomhlíonadh ar bhealach comhtháite agus i gcomhréir leis na hacmhainní atá ar fáil. Is próiseas forchéimnitheach é seo ar féidir leis a bheith dúshlánach, go háirithe sa chomhthéacs reatha ina bhfuil brú mór ar acmhainní.
Special Areas of Conservation Designation
Questions (380)
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:380. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the progress made on the national peatlands strategy; if turf cutting has now ceased on all raised bog SACs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17792/14]
View answerWritten answers
In April 2011 the Government made a number of key decisions relating to the conservation and management of Ireland’s peatlands, particularly those sites nominated for designation as Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and Natural Heritage Areas (NHA). A commitment was made to draw up a national strategy on peatlands conservation and management, in consultation with bog owners and other stakeholders, to deal with long-term issues such as land management & development, restoration, conservation, tourism potential, carbon accounting and community participation in managing this resource.
The independently chaired Peatlands Council was established to assist the Government and stakeholders regarding certain issues related to the management of Ireland’s peatlands and was specifically requested to oversee the drafting of a National Peatlands Strategy.
In late 2011 a first period of public consultation was held on the scope of the strategy. Over 400 submissions were received as part of this consultation. My Department, in consultation with the Peatlands Council and other key Departments and agencies developed the current draft of the Strategy which was opened for public consultation by Government on 15 January 2014 along with the draft National Raised Bog SAC Management Plan and the Review of the Raised Bog NHA Network. The public consultation period runs until this Friday, 18 April 2014, and I would encourage all those who have an interest in these documents to make their views known. The documents can be accessed at www.ahg.gov.ie/en/publications
In 2013 there was a marked reduction in the amount of illegal cutting on the 53 Raised Bog SACs with some 250 plots cut on 24 of the protected bogs last year compared to the 453 plots which were cut in 2012 on the same number of bogs. This represents a 45% decline in unauthorised cutting between 2012 and 2013.
This was as a result of enhanced engagement with my Department on the part of individuals and turf cutting communities seeking compensation and the enforcement efforts of my Department’s staff, in conjunction with the Gardaí. To date, 2,918 applications under the Cessation of Turf Cutting Compensation Scheme have been received by my Department with some 4,389 payments and 503 deliveries of turf made to individual turf cutters. In addition, 1,086 final legal agreements have also been signed with individual turf cutters on the raised bog SACs.
It is clear that the majority of domestic turf-cutters on the raised bog special areas of conservation are now engaging with my Department in finding acceptable solutions within the law. The door is still open for others to engage in this process with me, my Department and with other stakeholders to address the needs of turf cutters and other interested parties. Such engagement would, I am sure, help to address the needs of turf cutters more speedily.
Tribunals of Inquiry Recommendations
Questions (381)
Billy Kelleher
Question:381. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has made any inquiries to the Director of Public Prosecutions office, the Criminal Assets Bureau and the Revenue Commissioners regarding the Moriarty tribunal report findings as it was referred to these entities for their consideration after it was debated in Dáil Éireann and as it was established by the Oireachtas it would be appropriate to report to Dáil Éireann progress or the lack of progress; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17800/14]
View answerWritten answers
The findings of the Moriarty Report were referred to the agencies mentioned by the Deputy shortly after the Report was received by me. Their consideration of the Report's findings together with any response is a matter for those agencies and not one in which I have any function.
Postal Services
Questions (382)
Michael Creed
Question:382. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the restrictions in place for the transportation of ink toner cartridges by post in and out of Ireland; and if there are proposals to review these restrictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17333/14]
View answerWritten answers
The issue raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for the Board and management of An Post and one in which I have no statutory function.
Departmental Legal Costs
Questions (383)
Niall Collins
Question:383. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the total legal costs incurred by his Department in 2011, 2012, 2013 and estimated in 2014. [17352/14]
View answerWritten answers
My Department administers a very diverse and complex brief. Its remit includes oversight of very complex policy areas and direct procurement of major services where protection of the State’s interest must be paramount. This situation necessarily requires my Department to procure specialist external professional advice in legal areas to enable it to discharge its responsibility to deliver quality services and protect the interests of the State and the taxpayer. There have been eight occasions in total in 2011 and 2012 where my Department sought legal services, which arose because of the need for specialist legal expertise or because of legal challenges. There was no expenditure on legal fees by my Department in 2013. Total legal costs incurred to date in 2014 amounted to €9,225 and it is estimated that a further €12,000 will be paid on legal costs this year based on an out of Court settlement in 2013. The following table details the costs incurred.
In procuring specialised legal services, my Department always seeks to ensure value for money and the keeping of expenditure to the minimum necessary.
|
Name of Legal Service Provider |
Cost in 2011 - € |
Cost in 2012 - € |
Cost in 2014 - € |
Reason for Procurement |
|
Arthur Cox Solicitors |
163,717.04 |
Legal advice in respect of the Corrib Gas Pipeline & the Seven Heads Lease |
||
|
Mason, Hayes and Curran |
62,530.37 |
46,562.88 |
Legal services related to the procurement process to appoint a postcode management licence holder. |
|
|
Aisling Martin |
18,367.80 |
Advice and legal representation before the Moriarty Tribunal |
||
|
Diarmuid Rossa Phelan |
24,200.00 |
Advice and legal representation before the Moriarty Tribunal |
||
|
John L O’Donnell |
7,686.53 |
33,396.00 |
Advice and legal representation before the Moriarty Tribunal |
|
|
Conleth Bradley |
28,943.20 |
22,264.00 |
Advice and legal representation before the Moriarty Tribunal |
|
|
Elizabeth Gavin |
28,510.80 |
Engaged in relation to Moriarty Tribunal |
||
|
Derry Hand |
1380.00 |
Engaged in relation to Moriarty Tribunal |
||
|
William Fry |
€9,225 |
Professional Services rendered for Ireland Energy Efficiency Investments. |
||
|
TOTAL |
335,335.74 |
102,222.88 |
9,225 |
- |
Public Relations Contracts Expenditure
Questions (384)
Niall Collins
Question:384. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the total external public relations costs incurred by his Department in 2011, 2012, 2013 and estimated in 2014. [17368/14]
View answerWritten answers
My Departmental remit includes complex policy areas, oversight of State regulation and service provision across key strategic services such as communications, energy and public broadcasting, and regulation of sectors such as mining and hydrocarbon exploration. Given the technical complexity, economic significance and community interest in these areas, there is a requirement to disseminate information and to address specific issues as they arise. The Department therefore necessarily incurs some expenditure on public relations from time to time. In procuring these services, my Department always seeks to ensure value for money and the keeping of expenditure to the minimum necessary. The information requested by the Deputy is outlined in the following tabular format.
|
Company |
Purpose of Consultancy |
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
To date 2014 |
|
Morrow Communications Ltd |
Provision of services in relation to outreach in rural communities with respect to low flying geophysical survey and soil geochemical survey. |
€80,485.91 |
€36,552.71 |
€18,318.06 |
€4,358.70 |
|
Murray Consultants |
Media Services to the Department. |
€8,349 |
|||
|
McConnells Advertising Agency |
Public information campaign on the Digital Switchover moving from analogue TV to Digital TV. |
€72, 897 |
|||
|
Communications Consultants Ireland |
Management of two Public Information Meetings on new Inland Fisheries Legislation |
€1,796.78 |
|||
|
TOTAL COST PER YEAR |
€88,834.91 |
€109,449.71 |
€20,114.84 |
€4,358.70 |
Electricity Transmission Network
Questions (385)
Pat Deering
Question:385. Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when the terms of reference for the McGuinness commission will be agreed; when the committee will report back; and if Eirgrid's planning application for Eirgrid 25 will be delayed or if it considered still possible to meet the original timeframe. [17394/14]
View answerWritten answers
On 28 January last, I announced that I had appointed an Independent Expert Panel, chaired by Mrs Justice Catherine McGuinness, to decide terms of reference for comprehensive, route-specific studies of overhead and underground options for both the Grid Link and Grid West projects. The outputs from those studies, which will be required to be complete, objective and comparable, will be published before proceeding to the next stage of public consultation on those two projects. The two studies will take account of environmental (including visual amenity) impacts, technical efficacy and cost factors. The independent panel will have power to commission its own work if there is any perceived deficiency in the studies presented. Additionally, I have asked the Panel to consider what, if anything, it can do regarding the North South Transmission Line project. The Panel has commenced its deliberations and is scheduled to hold its next meeting in the first week of May. I understand that the Panel expects to be in a position to announce the terms of reference for the Panel itself, as well as the terms of reference for the Grid Link and Grid West transmission line projects shortly after that meeting. Development of the high voltage electricity grid as planned in the EirGrid Grid25 strategy is critical to Ireland's economic and social development. Ensuring secure reliable and safe supplies of electricity is critical to Ireland’s ability to attract inward investment and retain and create jobs. The timing of the submission of planning applications in respect of individual projects under the Grid25 strategy to An Bord Pleanála is a matter for EirGrid.
Broadband Service Provision
Questions (386, 387, 388)
Derek Nolan
Question:386. Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the black spot for broadband in an area (details supplied) in County Galway; when this will be rectified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17448/14]
View answerDerek Nolan
Question:387. Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when it is intended to roll out broadband in rural areas in County Galway, specifically the Menlough area of County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17449/14]
View answer
Robert Troy
Question:388. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the broadband services available for the residents of the Newcastle, Gneevebawn and Finea areas in County Westmeath. [17523/14]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 386 to 388, inclusive, together.
Since market liberalisation in 1999, the provision of telecommunications services, including broadband services are delivered in the first instance through private sector operators who operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent regulator, the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). The market has developed into a well-regulated market, supporting a multiplicity of commercial operators, providing services over a diverse range of technology platforms. Details of broadband services available in each county including Counties Galway and Westmeath can be found on a number of websites, including the websites of individual commercial operators.
The State can only become involved in the provision of services in instances of clear market failure, such as in the case of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS). My Department entered into a contract in late 2008 with Hutchison 3G Ireland Ltd (“3”) for the delivery of the NBS. The Scheme offers a basic broadband service, in line with EU State aid clearance, to fixed residences and businesses located within certain designated Electoral Divisions. In County Galway, NBS services are available within 111 of its 238 Electoral Divisions and in County Westmeath, NBS services are available within 26 of its106 Electoral Divisions. The area of Menlough is served under the NBS.
The Government’s National Broadband Plan, which I published in August 2012, aims to radically change the broadband landscape in Ireland by ensuring that high speed broadband is available to all citizens and businesses. This will be achieved by providing:
- a policy and regulatory framework that assists in accelerating and incentivising commercial investment; and
- a State-led investment for areas where it is not commercial for the market to invest.
Since the publication of the Plan, investments by the commercial sector are underway and in some instances have been accelerated in both fixed line and wireless high speed broadband services. In the fixed line segment of the market, eircom has announced plans to pass 1.4m addresses with its next generation broadband service, with speeds of up to 100Mbps, while UPC has increased its entry level and maximum speeds to 120Mbps and 200Mbps respectively. Mobile operators have also made announcements regarding network upgrades and are rolling out enhanced product offerings. In addition, the recent enactment of legislation to facilitate the ESB's entry into the telecommunications market, either alone or in partnership with another operator, will also help the roll-out of high speed broadband as well as facilitating greater competition in the Irish market.
I am aware of at least one service provider announcing that it will be providing advanced broadband services in a total of 57 locations in County Galway and in 19 locations in County Westmeath, before July 2016 and my Department will be happy to discuss these further with the Deputies.
Many of these developments have been facilitated through the implementation of measures in the National Broadband Plan, including the conclusion of ComReg's multiband spectrum auction, and the regulatory regime for fixed line Next Generation Access and service bundles. Both of these measures are designed to incentivise the rollout of services by operators.
In tandem with these developments, intensive work, including a comprehensive mapping exercise, continues in my Department in relation to the State-led investment to secure the countrywide introduction of next generation broadband access. In order to progress this State-led investment, a full procurement process must be designed and EU State Aids approval must be obtained.
Under the national mapping exercise, information has been sought from all undertakings authorised by ComReg in relation to current and planned broadband services, both basic and next generation access (NGA). Mapping data has been submitted to my Department by a total of 23 operators and the process of analysing the data and supporting information is continuing. The mapping data is being assessed on a case-by-case basis, having regard to the EU State Aid Guidelines. When all of the information has been analysed, a clear picture should emerge of coverage throughout all of the country. I expect that this process will be completed later this year, after which it is my intention to publish a map showing existing and planned NGA broadband coverage, along with the Government’s proposals for a State-led intervention to roll out high speed broadband across the country. The procurement process for the approved intervention will be carried out in accordance with EU and Irish procurement rules and it is expected that it will be launched later in 2014.
Through the implementation of the National Broadband Plan, I am committed to ensuring that all parts of Ireland have access to high speed broadband, with a view to ensuring that all citizens and businesses can participate fully in, and maximise the benefits of, a digitally enabled economy and society.
Broadband Service Provision
Questions (389)
Brendan Smith
Question:389. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the proposals to improve broadband telecommunications coverage in an area (details supplied) in County Cavan in view of the ongoing concerns of local residents and businesses in regard to the poor availability of broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17623/14]
View answerWritten answers
Since market liberalisation in 1999, the provision of telecommunications services, including broadband services are delivered in the first instance through private sector operators who operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent regulator, the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). The market has developed into a well-regulated market, supporting a multiplicity of commercial operators, providing services over a diverse range of technology platforms. Details of broadband services available in each county can be found on a number of websites, including the websites of individual commercial operators.The State can only become involved in the provision of services in instances of clear market failure, such as in the case of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS). My Department entered into a contract in late 2008 with Hutchison 3G Ireland Ltd (“3”) for the delivery of the NBS. The Scheme offers a basic broadband service, in line with EU State aid clearance, to fixed residences and businesses located within certain designated Electoral Divisions. In County Cavan, NBS services are available within 45 of its 93 Electoral Divisions. The Government’s National Broadband Plan, which I published in August 2012, aims to radically change the broadband landscape in Ireland by ensuring that high speed broadband is available to all citizens and businesses. This will be achieved by providing:
- a policy and regulatory framework that assists in accelerating and incentivising commercial investment; and
- a State-led investment for areas where it is not commercial for the market to invest.
Since the publication of the Plan, investments by the commercial sector are underway and in some instances have been accelerated in both fixed line and wireless high speed broadband services. In the fixed line segment of the market, eircom has announced plans to pass 1.4m addresses with its next generation broadband service, with speeds of up to 100Mbps, while UPC has increased its entry level and maximum speeds to 120Mbps and 200Mbps respectively. Mobile operators have also made announcements regarding network upgrades and are rolling out enhanced product offerings. In addition, the recent enactment of legislation to facilitate the ESB's entry into the telecommunications market, either alone or in partnership with another operator, will also help the roll-out of high speed broadband as well as facilitating greater competition in the Irish market.
I am aware of at least one service provider announcing that it will be providing advanced broadband services in a total of 20 locations in County Cavan, including Virginia, before July 2016 and my Department will be happy to discuss this further with the Deputy.
Many of these developments have been facilitated through the implementation of measures in the National Broadband Plan, including the conclusion of ComReg's multiband spectrum auction, and the regulatory regime for fixed line Next Generation Access and service bundles. Both of these measures are designed to incentivise the rollout of services by operators.
In tandem with these developments, intensive work, including a comprehensive mapping exercise, continues in my Department in relation to the State-led investment to secure the countrywide introduction of next generation broadband access. In order to progress this State-led investment, a full procurement process must be designed and EU State Aids approval must be obtained.
Under the national mapping exercise, information has been sought from all undertakings authorised by ComReg in relation to current and planned broadband services, both basic and next generation access (NGA). Mapping data has been submitted to my Department by a total of 23 operators and the process of analysing the data and supporting information is continuing. The mapping data is being assessed on a case-by-case basis, having regard to the EU State Aid Guidelines. When all of the information has been analysed, a clear picture should emerge of coverage throughout all of the country. I expect that this process will be completed later this year, after which it is my intention to publish a map showing existing and planned NGA broadband coverage, along with the Government’s proposals for a State-led intervention to roll out high speed broadband across the country. The procurement process for the approved intervention will be carried out in accordance with EU and Irish procurement rules and it is expected that it will be launched later in 2014.
Through the implementation of the National Broadband Plan, I am committed to ensuring that all parts of Ireland have access to high speed broadband, with a view to ensuring that all citizens and businesses can participate fully in, and maximise the benefits of, a digitally enabled economy and society.
Broadband Service Provision
Questions (390)
Dominic Hannigan
Question:390. Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when he expects towns in County Meath to receive access to the fibre to the business network which was started in Claremorris, County Mayo, this week; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17643/14]
View answerWritten answers
I attended the launch of e|net’s Fibre To The Business project, “e|net fibredirect” in Claremorris last week, referred to by the Deputy. This innovative product will use the Claremorris Metropolitan Area Network to make industry-strength broadband available to the businesses of Claremorris. Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) are State owned, underground telecommunications networks that are located in 94 regional cities and towns. MANs are available to licenced telecoms providers to enable them offer high-speed broadband to their retail customers without having to build their own networks. The MANs are managed, maintained and operated on behalf of the State by Limerick-based company, e|net, on behalf of the Department. e|net operates the MANs on an “open access” basis and provides services to licenced telecoms operators. At present, over 50 licensed telecoms operators, including all major operators, are using the MANs. This development maximises the role of the State-owned MAN in the delivery of future proofed broadband solutions to SMEs. It represents a significant financial investment by e|net. It also represents a major commitment of time and effort by the Claremorris Chamber of Commerce, Mayo County Council and telecoms operator Airspeed Telecom, who have collaborated to bring this project to fruition.
e|net is a commercial company and, while I would welcome any further investment by enet in similar projects in other MAN towns, such decisions are entirely a matter for the company.
Broadband Service Provision
Questions (391)
Tom Fleming
Question:391. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will investigate and examine the very poor level of broadband service in Kilgobnet, Beaufort, County Kerry; if he will take into consideration the impact it is having on businesses in the area, a number of which operate from home and the fact it is inhibiting growth in them; his views as to whether this is an appalling level of service in 2014 and is causing major inconvenience to all users and needs to be addressed immediately; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17951/14]
View answerWritten answers
Since market liberalisation in 1999, the provision of telecommunications services, including broadband services are delivered in the first instance through private sector operators who operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent regulator, the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). The market has developed into a well-regulated market, supporting a multiplicity of commercial operators, providing services over a diverse range of technology platforms. Details of broadband services available in each County including County Kerry can be found on a number of websites, including the websites of individual commercial operators.I am aware of at least one service provider announcing that it will be providing advanced broadband services in 33 locations in County Kerry, including Beaufort before July 2016 and my Department will be happy to discuss this further with the Deputy. I would point out that the Local Authority has a strong role to play in facilitating the roll-out of the necessary infrastructure to help enable service availability throughout the Country. In the case of County Kerry, I note that the County Development Plan recommends against siting a mast within 1km of dwellings. I understand that this is contributing to difficulties in providing broadband and telecommunications services generally in the county.
During the preparation of the Next Generation Broadband Taskforce report, which concluded its deliberations in 2012, service providers noted the importance of planning and consent processes in facilitating the rollout of infrastructure to support the provision of telecommunications services. The Government's National Broadband Plan which I subsequently published, commits to addressing barriers to deployment in order to maximise investment by the commercial sector and assist in enhancing the quality of services. Local Authorities have an important role to play in this regard, particularly in facilitating the provision of infrastructure that supports wireless and fixed line services.
The National Broadband Plan aims to radically change the broadband landscape in Ireland by ensuring that high speed broadband is available to all citizens and businesses. This will be achieved by providing:
- a policy and regulatory framework that assists in accelerating and incentivising commercial investment; and
- a State-led investment for areas where it is not commercial for the market to invest.
In tandem with these developments, intensive work, including a comprehensive mapping exercise, continues in my Department in relation to the State-led investment to secure the countrywide introduction of next generation broadband access. In order to progress the State-led investment for areas where it is not commercial for the market to invest, a full procurement process must be designed and EU State Aids approval must be obtained.
Under the national mapping exercise, information has been sought from all undertakings authorised by ComReg in relation to current and planned broadband services, both basic and next generation access (NGA). Mapping data has been submitted to my Department by a total of 23 operators and the process of analysing the data and supporting information is continuing. The mapping data is being assessed on a case-by-case basis, having regard to the EU State Aid Guidelines. When all of the information has been analysed, a clear picture should emerge of coverage throughout all of the country. I expect that this process will be completed later this year, after which it is my intention to publish a map showing existing and planned NGA broadband coverage, along with the Government’s proposals for a State-led intervention to roll out high speed broadband across the country, this map will outline exactly the type of broadband is available in County Kerry.
The procurement process for the approved intervention will be carried out in accordance with EU and Irish procurement rules and it is expected that it will be launched later in 2014.
Through the implementation of the National Broadband Plan, I am committed to ensuring that all parts of Ireland have access to high speed broadband, with a view to ensuring that all citizens and businesses can participate fully in, and maximise the benefits of, a digitally enabled economy and society.
Energy Schemes Data
Questions (392)
Catherine Murphy
Question:392. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide in tabular form the number of applications which were made under the better energy homes scheme, the better energy communities scheme, the electric vehicle grant scheme, the better energy warmer homes area based programme and the better energy warmer homes scheme in each month of 2011, 2012, 2013 and each month to date in 2014; if he will also indicate on the same table the number of applications which were successful in respect of each month and each scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18055/14]
View answerWritten answers
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers the Better Energy Programme. This includes the Better Energy Homes scheme, the Better Energy Warmer Homes scheme, the Better Energy Warmer Homes Area based programme and the Better Energy Communities programme. The SEAI also administer the Electric Vehicles scheme.Better Energy Homes provides a financial incentive to private homeowners who wish to improve the energy performance of their homes. Fixed grants are provided towards the cost of a range of measures including attic insulation, wall insulation, heating systems upgrades, solar thermal panels and accompanying BER. Better Energy Homes is a demand-led programme. Since commencement in March 2009, the scheme has delivered energy efficiency measures to over 156,000 homes, supported by grants of over €163million. From the start of 2011 to the present, over 77,000 grants have been paid with a further 5,000 grant offers still within their offer period but where a request for payment has not yet been received. The following table details the number of applications paid and still active for the programme for the period 2011 to present, on a monthly basis.
|
Better Energy Homes |
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
2014 |
||||
|
Applications |
Paid |
Still Active |
Paid |
Still Active |
Paid |
Still Active |
Paid |
Still Active |
|
Jan |
4,479 |
- |
1,910 |
- |
915 |
- |
413 |
757 |
|
Feb |
4,104 |
- |
1,926 |
- |
1,022 |
- |
244 |
968 |
|
Mar |
4,032 |
- |
1,581 |
- |
990 |
- |
30 |
1,157 |
|
Apr |
3,088 |
- |
1,392 |
- |
1,200 |
- |
- |
387 |
|
May |
3,252 |
- |
1,312 |
- |
1,018 |
- |
||
|
Jun |
3,378 |
- |
1,146 |
- |
892 |
12 |
||
|
Jul |
3,239 |
- |
1,340 |
- |
1,021 |
10 |
||
|
Aug |
3,879 |
- |
1,408 |
- |
949 |
20 |
||
|
Sep |
4,578 |
- |
1,471 |
- |
1,161 |
36 |
||
|
Oct |
4,665 |
- |
1,655 |
- |
1,045 |
448 |
||
|
Nov |
5,109 |
- |
2,057 |
- |
930 |
778 |
||
|
Dec |
2,780 |
- |
1,108 |
- |
555 |
584 |
||
|
Total |
46,583 |
0 |
18,306 |
0 |
11,698 |
1,888 |
687 |
3,269 |
The Better Energy Warmer Homes scheme delivers a range of energy efficiency measures to low income households who meet defined eligibility criteria and who are vulnerable to energy poverty. The scheme is managed by the SEAI and delivered through a range of Community Based Organisations (CBOs), augmented by a panel of private contractors in order to ensure national coverage. Recipients of the scheme do not receive grants but have measures installed free of charge. Home owners register their interest in the scheme and are placed on the SEAI waiting list. Since the commencement of the scheme in 2000, over 105,000 homes around the country have received energy efficiency measures under the Warmer Homes scheme, with a total spend of over €116 million.
The following table details the number of eligible applications and homes completed for the scheme for the period 2011 to the present, on a monthly basis.
|
Better Energy Warmer Homes |
Better Energy Warmer Homes |
|||||||
|
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
2014 |
|||||
|
Eligible applications |
Homes Complete |
Eligible applications |
Homes Complete |
Eligible applications |
Homes Complete |
Eligible applications |
Homes Complete |
|
|
Jan |
1468 |
566 |
1170 |
* |
1232 |
280 |
1124 |
121 |
|
Feb |
2510 |
1888 |
851 |
175 |
1060 |
1131 |
1144 |
238 |
|
Mar |
1263 |
656 |
791 |
645 |
911 |
516 |
839 |
666 |
|
Apr |
2714 |
1548 |
610 |
512 |
929 |
1060 |
543 |
63 |
|
May |
2504 |
1817 |
859 |
975 |
874 |
1267 |
||
|
Jun |
2159 |
1937 |
995 |
909 |
530 |
1230 |
||
|
Jul |
1108 |
784 |
1212 |
907 |
571 |
502 |
||
|
Aug |
1245 |
2203 |
995 |
981 |
621 |
1196 |
||
|
Sep |
3038 |
2457 |
2739 |
830 |
725 |
356 |
||
|
Oct |
3022 |
2402 |
2101 |
2004 |
1093 |
503 |
||
|
Nov |
2842 |
3316 |
2484 |
3052 |
1331 |
1292 |
||
|
Dec |
1163 |
814 |
1021 |
1185 |
664 |
470 |
||
|
Total |
25,036 |
20,388 |
15,828 |
12,175 |
10,541 |
9,803 |
3,650 |
1,088 |
*Note: The reason no homes were completed in January 2012 was because new contractual arrangements were being put in place for both CBOs and private contractors.
The Better Energy Areas scheme, which is free of charge to the customer, delivers energy upgrades to low income homeowners experiencing extreme energy poverty in all housing sectors including Local Authority houses, Housing Association houses and private homes. The scheme was introduced as a pilot under the Affordable Energy Strategy and is delivered on an area basis.
The SEAI also administers the Better Energy Communities programme that supports sustainable energy upgrades to existing buildings, services, facilities and processes in the community sector.
The Areas and Community based schemes were amalgamated in 2014 with an Exchequer allocation of €13.5m. The call for applications for 2014 was announced in February and has a closing date of 30 April, after which the volume of applications will be known. The following table sets out the total number of applications and applications approved by year.
|
Better Energy Communities |
Better Energy Communities - Area Based |
|||
|
Total Applications |
Applications Approved |
Total Applications |
Applications Approved |
|
|
2012 |
43 |
18 |
49 |
27 |
|
2013 |
64 |
47 |
69 |
37 |
In relation to Electric Vehicles (EVs), Ireland had set an initial target of 10% of the car fleet or 230,000 cars to be electrified by 2020. Since 2009, attention has been focussed on creating the best environment for promoting the penetration of EVs into the car market in Ireland. A grant support scheme for EV consumers has been in place since 2011 under which 418 electric vehicles have been approved for grant aid to date. The consumer receives up to €5,000 off the cost price of the vehicle. In addition, EVs are also treated favourably under our motor tax system and qualify for VRT reliefs of up to €5,000.
The following table details the number of applications submitted and approved for the scheme for the period 2011 to present, on a monthly basis. The reason for the difference between submitted and approved is due mainly to applications being submitted with missing details, customers cancelling orders or changing their initial order.
|
Electric Vehicles |
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
2014 |
||||
|
Applications |
Submitted |
Approved |
Submitted |
Approved |
Submitted |
Approved |
Submitted |
Approved |
|
Jan |
3 |
4 |
6 |
8 |
47 |
51 |
||
|
Feb |
23 |
4 |
6 |
5 |
33 |
31 |
||
|
Mar |
20 |
17 |
10 |
11 |
22 |
20 |
||
|
Apr |
4 |
21 |
11 |
1 |
1 |
3 |
||
|
May |
22 |
19 |
36 |
35 |
1 |
|||
|
Jun |
11 |
7 |
108 |
17 |
6 |
1 |
||
|
Jul |
7 |
15 |
25 |
79 |
15 |
13 |
||
|
Aug |
1 |
8 |
7 |
7 |
8 |
|||
|
Sep |
1 |
4 |
4 |
5 |
6 |
|||
|
Oct |
1 |
1 |
15 |
11 |
9 |
7 |
||
|
Nov |
2 |
6 |
6 |
19 |
13 |
|||
|
Dec |
2 |
1 |
9 |
15 |
1 |
|||
|
Total |
50 |
44 |
278 |
195 |
99 |
74 |
103 |
105 |
Mortgage to Rent Scheme Application Numbers
Questions (393, 413, 414, 415, 416, 417, 418, 431)
Michael McGrath
Question:393. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will specify, for each financial institution, the number of mortgage to rent transactions that have been completed to date; the local authorities and-or voluntary housing bodies concerned; the number that are currently being worked on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17273/14]
View answer
Stephen Donnelly
Question:413. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government with regard to the mortgage to rent scheme, the funding that has been allocated per local authority for 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17602/14]
View answerStephen Donnelly
Question:414. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government with regard to the mortgage to rent scheme, the number of completed deals that have been completed to date in 2014 by local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17603/14]
View answerStephen Donnelly
Question:415. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government with regard to the mortgage to rent scheme, the property value cap-maximum allowed per geographic area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17604/14]
View answerStephen Donnelly
Question:416. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government with regard to the mortgage to rent scheme, if he will provide the analysis leading to the property value cap-maximum allowed per geographic area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17605/14]
View answerStephen Donnelly
Question:417. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government with regard to the mortgage to rent scheme, the current set of eligibility criteria and any changes made to these criteria in the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17606/14]
View answerStephen Donnelly
Question:418. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government subsequent to this Deputy's proposal on the mortgage to rent scheme (details supplied), if he will incorporate any of the proposals made into the mortgage to rent scheme, and, if so, when, and, if not, the reason; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17607/14]
View answer
Ann Phelan
Question:431. Deputy Ann Phelan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the mortgage to rent scheme is still being rolled out; if this in not the case, the reason it has ceased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17826/14]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 393, 413 to 418, inclusive, and 431 together.
There are currently two mortgage-to-rent schemes in operation through my Department.
A scheme exists whereby a local authority (LA) can acquire ownership of properties with unsustainable local authority mortgages thus enabling the household to remain in their home as a social housing tenant (LA-mortgage-to-rent ). The other scheme provides for an Approved Housing Body (AHB) to acquire ownership of a property with an unsustainable private mortgage which also enables the household to remain in their home as a social housing tenant (AHB-mortgage-to-rent ). Both schemes are designed to assist families with income difficulties whose mortgages are now unsustainable, and where there is little or no prospect of a significant change in circumstances in the foreseeable future.
On foot of the recommendations of the Keane Report on mortgage arrears the Government launched the AHB Mortgage to Rent scheme (AHB-mortgage-to-rent) on a pilot basis in February 2012 and extended it nationally in June 2012. The scheme is currently in operation and continues to accept applications from lending institutions.
To be eligible for the AHB-mortgage-to-rent scheme a household must have had their mortgage position deemed unsustainable under the Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process, agree to the voluntary surrender of their home, be in negative equity, and be deemed eligible for social housing in accordance with section 20 of the Housing (scellaneous Provisions) Act 2009.
In relation to the application of a maximum property value, in order for a property to be considered under the scheme it must be purchased for less than €220,000 (per property) in the Greater Dublin Area and €180,000 (per property) in the rest of the country. These limits were determined by a working group which took account of available market data and the current social housing acquisition limits. These limits are considered to be reasonable in respect of the income bracket that is targeted by the scheme.
To date, 2,337 cases have been put forward by private lending institutions for application to the AHB-mortgage-to-rent scheme. 38 of these cases have agreements completed and the households in question have become, or are in the process of becoming, social housing tenants. I have provided a breakdown of the number of completed cases both by financial institution (Table 1) and local authority (Table 2) for the AHB-mortgage-to-rent scheme. Cluid Housing Association has completed 33 of these cases, Oaklee Housing Trust have completed 2 cases, with Tuath Housing Association completing the remaining 3 cases. I expect that these numbers will significantly increase during 2014.
Table 1 - AHB-Mortgage-to-Rent completed cases by Financial Institution
|
Financial Institution |
Complete |
|
AIB |
1 |
|
BOI |
1 |
|
EBS |
2 |
|
KBCI |
1 |
|
Pepper |
24 |
|
Start Mortgages |
9 |
|
Grand Total |
38 |
Table 2 - AHB-Mortgage-to-Rent completed cases by Local Authority
|
Authority |
Complete |
|
Carlow |
2 |
|
Clare |
1 |
|
Cork City |
3 |
|
Cork County |
2 |
|
Dublin C ity Council |
5 |
|
Drogheda |
1 |
|
Dún Laoghaire Rathdown |
1 |
|
Dundalk |
1 |
|
Fingal |
1 |
|
Kildare |
4 |
|
Kilkenny |
2 |
|
Limerick |
3 |
|
Meath |
3 |
|
South Dublin County Council |
3 |
|
Tipperary |
2 |
|
Waterford City |
1 |
|
Waterford County |
1 |
|
Westmeath |
1 |
|
Wicklow |
1 |
|
Overall |
38 |
A further 464 cases have been advanced and are under negotiation, with 988 cases in the initial stages of the process. Of the cases put forward by private lending institutions 847 are not progressing for various reasons including the borrower declining the scheme, the lender withdrawing the offer of the scheme due to a change in circumstances of the borrower, eligibility for social housing, failing to agree a sale price or the condition of the property.
The LA mortgage–to–rent scheme was piloted in two local authority areas in 2013, Westmeath County Council and Dublin City Council, was implemented nationally in February 2014. Dublin City Council and Westmeath County Council completed 10 cases and 8 cases, respectively, under the pilot scheme. Eligibility for the LA-mortgage-to-rent scheme is broadly similar to eligibility under AHB-mortgage-to-rent; however, engagement with the Mortgage Loan and Arrears Support Unit of the local authority is required as an alternative to the Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process for private lending institutions.
With the support of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform and the Housing Finance Agency, I will be allocating an additional €20m to the LA -mortgage-to-rent scheme in 2014 to significantly expand the capacity of that resource to assist local authority borrowers in mortgage distress.
My Department has considered the proposals submitted in relation to AHB-mortgage-to-rent and a reply will issue directly shortly. I would, however, point out that AHBs can currently acquire properties (at auctions or through other means) for use as social housing, if the AHB feels it is a financially feasible option and the properties meet the criteria of the social housing leasing initiative. The leasing initiative already facilitates this and has provided capital funds in the form of the Capital Advance Leasing Facility (CALF) to AHBs to assist them in leveraging their own private finance. The combination of funding under the leasing scheme and existing provisions of the AHB mortgage to rent scheme provide AHBs with sufficient opportunity to acquire properties for social housing purposes.
Further information in relation to Mortgage to Rent Schemes generally is available on the Housing Agency’s website, www.housing.ie.
Foreshore Issues
Questions (394)
Dara Calleary
Question:394. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the State is the sole owner of a beach (details supplied) in County Donegal up to the high water mark. [17296/14]
View answerWritten answers
The Foreshore Act 1933 defines foreshore as the bed and shore, below the line of high water of ordinary or medium tides, of the sea and of every tidal river and tidal estuary and of every channel, creek and bay of the sea or of any such river or estuary and the outer limit of the foreshore is to be determined in accordance with section 1A of the Foreshore Act.
The State Property Act 1954 vests ownership of the foreshore in the nister for Public Expenditure and Reform on behalf of the State. There is a legal presumption that the State owns all of Ireland’s foreshore unless it can be shown that it has been the subject of a grant of title or has been adversely possessed over a period of time. The burden of proof of ownership rests on the claimant. If the area referred to as “beach” is foreshore as defined in the Foreshore Act, it is presumed to be in State ownership unless it can be proved otherwise.