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Thursday, 5 Jun 2014

Written Answers Nos. 1-30

Job Creation

Questions (11)

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

11. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the actions he will take to provide more sustainable employment opportunities for persons employed under zero hour contracts or for those in part-time employment who are seeking full-time employment. [17573/14]

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Written answers

The objective of the Action Plan for Jobs is to support sustainable job creation by creating the operating conditions where more businesses can start-up and grow.

The increase in total employment of 42,700 in the year to Q1 2014 was made up of an increase in full-time employment of 46,400 (+3.3%) while part-time employment declined by 3,700 (-0.8%). This is in sharp contrast to the rest of the EU where there has been steady growth in the number of employees working part-time and the number of fulltime workers has continued to fall.

Much of our jobs growth is in sectors which we have targeted in the Action Plan for Jobs, such as Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing, Accommodation and Food Services, and Industry. The 2014 Action Plan for Jobs, which was published at the end of February, contains 385 discrete actions across a wide range of sectors to support competitiveness and job creation.

The efforts of IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland are geared to creating full-time employment rather than part-time employment and this is reflected in their employment trends. Jobs Plus, the Department of Social Protection’s employer incentive scheme, has helped recruit 2,115 long-term unemployed jobseekers from the Live Register to fill full-time positions since its introduction last July, and is deliberately designed to encourage employers to provide full time jobs.

The change reflected in the reduction of part-time employment relative to the increase in permanent and/or full-time contracts in Ireland contrasts with the position at EU aggregate level. While full time employment is the focus of our policy efforts, I recognise that in Ireland as indeed throughout Europe, temporary and part-time jobs are a contribution to job creation since in the medium to long run they may act as a stepping stone to permanent and/or full-time contracts.

I appreciate the Deputy’s concerns about the way in which zero hour contracts can operate. I have, on previous occasions, pointed out that the manner in which these contracts are regulated in Ireland differs from the position in the United Kingdom, where they have generated greater controversy. In particular, workers engaged under mutually agreed zero hour contracts in Ireland are entitled to compensation where shifts for zero-hours workers are cancelled at short notice.

Job Creation

Questions (12)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

12. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the extent to which jobs continue to be created through foreign direct investment and the indigenous sector having regard to the experience of the past three years to date; if he has in mind any proposals to address any issues arising; the extent to which job creation in the manufacturing and service sectors has kept pace with worldwide trends; if any particular issues have arisen which might require further attention to ensure continuation of economic growth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23796/14]

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Written answers

I am glad to say that the numbers employed in companies supported by the enterprise development agencies operating under the aegis of my Department, IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland, has steadily increased in the three year period 2011 to 2013 inclusive. Total employment in IDA Ireland companies (including companies that were formerly clients of Shannon Development) has risen from 146,419 at end 2010 to 166,184 at end 2013, while total job numbers in Enterprise Ireland client companies rose from 166,890 at end 2010 to 175,750 at end 2013. This increase of 19,715 and 8,860 respectively is in sharp contrast to the previous three year period from end 2007 to end 2010 when job numbers declined by 41,985 (16,800 in IDA Ireland client companies and 25,185 in Enterprise Ireland client companies).

In relation to employment in the economy as a whole the latest CSO Quarterly National Household Survey showed that the number of people in employment at Q1 2014 stood at 1.903 million, an increase of over 65,000 in the numbers at work in the last two years. This performance in employment growth is better than anywhere in the OECD.

In addition, my Department has reformed the system for delivery of support to micro and small enterprises by creating the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) within the Local Authority structure. This reform will help to make the operating environment for businesses more coherent, responsive and conducive to entrepreneurship at local level. All 31 LEOs opened for business on 15th April.

The Action Plan for Jobs 2014 includes a commitment to develop a framework for a Regional Enterprise Strategy to better integrate the efforts of the enterprise development agencies and other regional stakeholders in supporting enterprises. My intention is that the framework will be developed on a pilot basis initially, focusing on the Midlands region, and involving the agencies under the remit of my own Department – Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices. The objective is to enhance synergies between the agencies and their client companies and build on the competitive strengths of the region to maximise the potential for job creation. The role which other public bodies in the region can play in working towards this objective will also be examined as the project develops. The aim is that this framework will serve as a model for other regions of the country.

Under the 2014-2020 Regional Aid Guidelines, which will enter into force on 1 July 2014, areas accounting for 51.28% of Ireland’s population will now be eligible for assistance. This represents a substantial increase from the 25% originally proposed by the Commission, and an increase from the 50% under the 2007-2013 Map. Aid intensity rates were also maintained at their current levels.

It is an acknowledged fact that since 2000 there has been a decline in the manufacturing sector in most developed economies including Ireland. The Forfás Strategy on Manufacturing, which I commissioned and which was launched in April 2013, identified that a total of 205,700 people were directly employed in Manufacturing and that a similar number of jobs were indirectly supported. At the end of 2013, Central Statistics Office Data (Quarterly National Household Survey, Q 4 2013) shows that a total of 215,900 were directly employed in the sector, a rise of 10,200 on that earlier figure. When indirect jobs are taken into account, the position is that the Manufacturing sector supports over 430,000 jobs (end 2013). My agencies are now rolling out actions aimed at sustained growth in manufacturing.

Company Closures

Questions (13)

Clare Daly

Question:

13. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation in view of the closure of a company (details supplied) and other long-standing printing companies, if he has any initiatives planned to protect and develop what is left of the printing industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23813/14]

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Written answers

Firstly, I should point out that the company concerned is not a client of Enterprise Ireland.

I understand from Enterprise Ireland that the agency is working with client companies in the printing sector committed to diversifying their operations into new technologies such as digital print (to offer short runs, economical and quicker turnaround, personalisation) and fulfilment/packaging services for target markets. Such growth areas include the medtech, pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, as well as electronic consumer and software customers.

Enterprise Ireland is actively engaged with in excess of 100 companies in the print and packaging sector, and has supported development in these companies through its Market Access, Job Expansion, R&D grants and Exploring Opportunities programmes.

The ongoing move from print to web for traditionally printed items has resulted in a significant decline in market print volume. Print companies that have successfully moved their business to focus on solutions, that include print, are growing both domestically and internationally. Print companies targeting sectors that developed niche or differentiated products are growing in turnover, export sales and employment. There is a need to innovate with respect to product, services and business within the print sector because of decline in large volume printing.

Enterprise Ireland continues to support clients, through the Lean Programme targeting improved efficiencies, enabling companies address margin issues in a very competitive market. There is also a need to adopt new products, services and business models to develop new revenue streams with the volume of general print declining. Print will continue to move towards a low cost service and differentiation of core customer offer will be essential to the development of a sustainable sub-sector.

Enterprise Ireland also:

- continues to work with companies seeking changes to their business models, market requirements and technology through its R&D programmes; and

- promotes Management Training to better position client companies to meet the challenges of the sector.

Enterprise Ireland promotes opportunities within the Public Procurement landscape. The most recent initiative was to invite consortia including print companies to develop solutions for the State Examinations Commission to move towards an on-line marking system while maintaining student experience. The aim is to improve capability and move towards higher value service offer which involves print services.

Enterprise Ireland is committed to engaging with their client base in the printing sector as a third party in discussions with the banking sector. This is done in conjunction with Enterprise Ireland’s Banking Relations Unit and the Sectoral team.

Social Enterprise Sector

Questions (14)

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

14. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide an update on the work of the interdepartmental group on social enterprise; and the progress that has been made in furthering the development of the sector. [23804/14]

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Written answers

The Programme for Government includes a commitment to develop a vibrant and effective social enterprise sector. A report on the potential of social enterprises to create jobs and to identify the actions required by Government and other relevant bodies and agencies, was commissioned and produced by Forfás in July 2013.

The Forfás report recommended the establishment of an inter-departmental group to develop and champion the sector. The group was established in October 2013 and is chaired by Minister Sean Sherlock. The function of this group is to provide a coordinated approach from the Government sector to support the development of social enterprise in Ireland, to develop a policy framework for the provision of these supports and to examine the recommendations of the Forfás report in greater detail with a view to their implementation. The Group also formally engages with the Social Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Task Force (SEETF), as the best representative group of the sector to progress the recommendations of the Forfás report. Since October 2013, The Group has met on five occasions. Immediate actions required were identified and a small joint working-group was also established to prepare a work-plan based on short, medium and long-term goals.

The recommendations being examined by the group cover the areas of Policy Development, Capacity Building, Procurement, Funding and Finance, Developing Leaders, Harnessing Community Support and, Governance.

At the outset it must be acknowledged that the Social Enterprise umbrella covers a disparate sector. The spectrum ranges from enterprises that are fully supported by the State through to a small number of commercially trading companies. Therefore mapping the sector and identifying the supports required is a challenge for policy makers.

Notwithstanding, a number of actions have been identified and are being progressed:

- Inclusion of support for social enterprises in the new Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme, under the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, which will be effective from January 2015.

- New Local Enterprise Offices have been established and will act as the first-stop-shop and sign-posting service to any enterprise that is commercially viable and meets the eligibility criteria set down by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise & Innovation.

- The group is exploring mechanisms to develop capacity in the sector and examine how best to access EU funds e.g. the new EU Employment and Social Innovation (EaSI) programme has a Microfinance and Social Entrepreneurship axis dedicated to support for access to micro-finance and social entrepreneurship.

- Discussions with the Central Statistics Office have taken place on the inclusion of Social Enterprise in CSO data collection. The Group have also engaged with representatives from Credit Unions to discuss supports for Social Enterprises.

- Initial contact has also taken place with the office of Public Procurement to examine the scope for inclusion of Social Impact Clauses in Public Procurement.

Local Enterprise Offices Remit

Questions (15)

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

15. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his plans to work in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in providing a rural, agricultural dimension to the services of the local enterprise offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23810/14]

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Written answers

The 31 Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) throughout the country are charged with promoting entrepreneurship and micro-enterprise development and are the first-stop-shop for those beginning a new business as well as those wishing to expand their existing one. They are the single point of access to all local and national enterprise supports and services.

The LEO structure provides a service which amalgamates national enterprise policy and local business supports in order to strengthen the local business culture and environment. The LEOs will deliver a comprehensive service to local entrepreneurs and businesses, including:

- direct grants, mentoring and training for suitable projects;

- Utilising local business expertise to evaluate projects;

- Providing training and mentoring on starting your own business, including drawing up a business plan or accessing commercial space;

- Providing an enhanced advice and guidance service embracing all other local and national supports;

- Direct referral of clients to Enterprise Ireland;

- Referral to the supports of Revenue, Social Protection, Microfinance Ireland, the Credit Review Office, Skillnets and the Education and Training Boards in giving the best possible service to people who have a business idea.

- Direct advice and guidance on Local Authority rates, procurement and regulations affecting business.

Each LEO will develop a local plan for boosting enterprise. Key targets in the local plan will be new business start-ups, business expansions and jobs created or sustained as well as wider economic impacts such as exports, mentoring, training and promotion of entrepreneurship.

In summary, the LEOs will be able to provide information and guidance to all business ideas, including those with a rural / agricultural dimension, and can provide funding and mentoring / training to projects that have the potential to trade internationally and become commercially viable. Further information on the LEOs is available at www.localenterprise.ie.

Employment Rights

Questions (16)

Mick Wallace

Question:

16. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will intervene in a dispute (details supplied) where staff and former workers have been left without wages and have been forced to occupy the premises; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23799/14]

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Written answers

I share the Deputy’s concern in relation to employees’ rights to receive their wages and the apparent failure of their employer to pay their wages for a number of weeks before the closure of the premises in question.

Officials from the National Employment Rights Authority (NERA) have met with representatives of the employees to inform them about their entitlements and means of redress. They also provided NERA’s contact details should the employees need further information about these matters. NERA officials have also met with a representative of the employer and provided information on the employer’s obligations and the rights of the employees.

Irish employment rights legislation provides a comprehensive range of protections for employees. In this particular case, there may be several possible avenues of redress for the employees to consider, including, for example, making a complaint to a Rights Commissioner under the Payment of Wages Act for unpaid wages and bringing a claim to the Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) where the employer fails to comply with redundancy payment/minimum notice obligations.

The administration of the Redundancy Payments legislation is within the remit of my colleague the Minister for Social Protection, who has advised that it is the responsibility of the employer to pay statutory redundancy to all eligible employees. Where an employer can prove to the satisfaction of the Department of Social Protection that he/she is unable to pay statutory redundancy to his/her eligible employees that Department will make lump sum payments directly to those employees. Such payments are made from the Social Insurance Fund and result in a debt being raised against the employer which the Department of Social Protection will seek to recover.

Where an employer is legally insolvent (liquidation, receivership, bankruptcy etc.) and, as a result, defaults on payment of wages and other entitlements, an employee may also be entitled to seek redress from the State under the Insolvency Payments Scheme. These payments also cover overtime, holiday pay, sick pay etc. In these circumstances, redundancy payment entitlements may also be made from the Social Insurance Fund.

I have been informed by the Minister for Social Protection that she has received no applications for redundancy payments or insolvency payments in respect of the employees of this company.

A company may be put into liquidation by its members. An alternative is that the company’s creditors may apply to the Courts to have the company put into liquidation. Employees owed wages or other payments count as creditors and would be entitled to have the company put into liquidation.

There have been a number of instances where employers have ceased trading but have not gone through a formal wind-up process even though it would appear that the business is insolvent (so called “informal” insolvencies). At present the former employees of such employers are not covered by the insolvency payments scheme as their former employers do not satisfy the definition of insolvency for the purpose of the scheme. The position with regard to these situations is currently under review by the Department of Social Protection.

Finally, I would remind the parties involved in the current situation that all of the relevant agencies and bodies under the remit of my Department remain available, should this be of assistance.

Enterprise Support Schemes

Questions (17)

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

17. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the up to date draw down of the micro finance loan fund and the credit guarantee scheme. [23805/14]

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Written answers

The Microfinance Loan Fund Scheme facility was introduced in October 2012 following demands from business interests for the introduction of supports for microenterprises in a difficult economic environment. It has now developed a presence in the Irish financial market.

As of 31 March 2014, Microfinance Ireland (MFI) has approved 192 applications to the value of €3m supporting 437 jobs. The latest progress report detailing the analysis and performance for the quarterly period ending 31 March 2014 is available on my Department’s website.

The SME Credit Guarantee Scheme (CGS) was launched in October 2012 in response to numerous calls from business interests. It is a novel Scheme in an Irish context which is continuing to develop a position in the Irish financial arena.

As of the 31 March 2014, the SME Credit Guarantee Scheme had eighty nine live facilities resulting in over €11.7m being sanctioned through the Scheme by the participating lenders, which has resulted in 479 new jobs being created and 255 jobs being maintained.

My Department publishes quarterly progress reports on the SME Credit Guarantee Scheme on my Department’s website www.enterprise.gov.ie. The progress report detailing the analysis and performance for the quarterly period ending 31st December 2013 is available on my Department’s website. I intend to publish the next progress report for the period to 31 March 2014 in the coming days.

Workplace Relations Services

Questions (18)

Seán Kyne

Question:

18. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the progress of implementing the new workplace relations service; when the legislation underpinning the proposed new structures will be published and introduced in Dáil Éireann; and if the new services will be sufficiently accessible without undue financial costs which would act as an impediment to persons seeking to avail of the service. [23809/14]

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Written answers

The Government is committed to reform of the State’s existing Workplace Relations Services. The system that developed over the last eighty years had become unwieldy and complex and was no longer fit for purpose. Indeed, there was universal acceptance of the need for a root-and-branch reform of the existing structures.

My objective is to deliver a world-class workplace relations service which is simple to use, independent, effective, impartial, cost effective and provides for workable means of redress and enforcement, within a reasonable period of time.

Significant progress has been achieved to date, in advance of the enabling legislation, insofar as the technological, structural, administrative and staffing changes required to underpin the Workplace Relations Reform Programme are concerned, including the following measures which have already been put in place:

- Transfer of the Equality Tribunal into my Department to be part of the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC),

- Establishment of a Single Contact Portal (Workplace Relations Customer Service),

- Launch of a single Workplace Relations Complaint Form and e-complaint facility,

- Finalisation of a Staffing and Structures Plan,

- Design and launch of a single Workplace Relations website,

- Design and launch of a Single Adjudication and Appeals Decisions Database,

- Establishment of an Early Resolution Service,

- Finalisation of Adjudicator training and recruitment plans, and

- Implementation of enhanced technologies and business processes, including the completion of the procurement phase in relation to the design and commissioning of a Customer Relationship Management Solution.

A significant amount of work has been completed on the preparation of the legislation which will give statutory effect to the new structures and associated processes. The Draft Scheme of the Workplace Relations Bill has been approved by Government for priority drafting. The drafting of the legislation is at an advanced stage with the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel and I anticipate it will be completed to allow me publish the Bill during the current Spring/Summer Dail session with a view to having the new structures in place during 2014.

The legislation will provide for the services of the Equality Tribunal, the National Employment Rights Authority, the Labour Relations Commission and the first instance functions of the Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) to come together under the remit of the WRC. The appellate functions of the EAT will be amalgamated into a reconfigured Labour Court.

A key priority in this Reform Programme is to improve access to the State’s Workplace Relations Services and the reforms that I am introducing will provide for an improved service in terms of cost efficiency and user-friendliness for the users of the services.

In this regard, I do not propose to introduce charges on parties for access to the WRC services for many reasons, chief amongst which is the belief that ‘forum shopping’ will not be a feature in the new system. However, I am proposing the introduction of a fee in one particular instance: i.e. where a party who failed to appear at a first instance hearing of the WRC without good cause wishes to appeal the decision to the Labour Court, that party will have to pay a fee of €300 when lodging their appeal. If the Labour Court determines that the party in question had good cause for failing to attend the first instance hearing, the fee will be refunded. To facilitate this, a statutory basis will be provided in the legislation for the introduction of fees. This will also provide for any future situation where it is deemed appropriate and necessary to introduce fees.

Manufacturing Sector

Questions (19)

Dara Calleary

Question:

19. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the progress that is being made towards the goal of increasing employment in the manufacturing sector by 20,000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23793/14]

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Written answers

The Forfás Strategy on Manufacturing, which was launched in April 2013, identified that a total of 205,700 people were directly employed in Manufacturing and that a similar number of jobs were indirectly supported. At the end of 2013, Central Statistics Office Data (Quarterly National Household Survey, Q 4 2013) shows that a total of 215,900 were directly employed in the sector, a rise of 10,200 on that earlier figure. When account is taken of indirect jobs, the position is that the Manufacturing sector supports over 430,000 jobs (end 2013).

Overall, steady progress is being made towards reaching the target of 20,000 new jobs by 2016 which the Government has set in relation to job creation potential in the Manufacturing sector. I believe that the positive employment trends seen in recent years in the sector can be further built on by focusing policy on developing Ireland’s strengths in key, high-value manufacturing areas. This will enhance Ireland’s competitiveness and help create good quality, sustainable jobs in Manufacturing.

Science Foundation Ireland Remit

Questions (20)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

20. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the investment priorities of Science Foundation Ireland; if the investment is geared towards pure or so-called blue skies research or applied research; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23812/14]

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Written answers

Science Foundation Ireland’s investments build links between academia and industry in areas of national importance in order to promote and assist the development and competitiveness of industry, enterprise and employment in the State. The remit of Science Foundation Ireland was amended last year with the enactment of the Industrial Development (Science Foundation Ireland) Act 2013 (No. 36 of 2013) to enable SFI to fund applied as well as oriented basic research in strategic areas of opportunity for the State.

The Act as amended also enables SFI to:

- develop and extend the capability for the carrying out of oriented basic and applied research in institutions

- promote attraction to the State world class researchers and research teams in strategic areas of opportunity for the State

- provide funding on an all-Island basis, subject to excellence and strategic criteria being met;

- enter collaborative arrangements with international partners; and

- provide funding to promote the study of, education in and awareness of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

The legislation provides that the Minister may prescribe by regulations the strategic areas of opportunity. The Industrial Development (Science Foundation Ireland) (Strategic Areas of Opportunity) Regulations 2013 (S.I. No. 476 of 2013) prescribed the areas of identified in the National Research Prioritisation Exercise which was approved by the Government in March 2012 as strategic areas of opportunity for the purposes of the Act.

Industrial Relations

Questions (21)

Clare Daly

Question:

21. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the position regarding progress on giving pensioner groups access to the State's industrial relations machinery to deal with grievances regarding their pension scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23814/14]

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Written answers

I am informed by my colleague, the Minister for Social Protection that any consideration of a restructure of pension scheme benefits under section 50 of the Pensions Act must comply with the provisions in the Pensions Act and with guidance issued by the Pensions Board. This guidance makes provision for the notification of all pensioners in advance of any application to the Pensions Board to restructure scheme benefits. In such circumstances a pensioner will have at least one month to make a submission to the trustees of the scheme in relation to such a proposal. The Pensions Board must be satisfied that all the provisions in the guidance are complied with before the Board will consider issuing a notice to restructure scheme benefits.

It is important to note that the trustees of a pension scheme are required to act in the best interests of all the members. On that basis, the trustees have to take account of the interests of the deferred and pensioner members in any restructuring proposals they make.

The question of whether it is appropriate that pensioner groups have access to the State’s industrial relations machinery in pursuing pension scheme grievances is under consideration.

Officials from my Department and the Department of Social Protections have held discussions to explore the issue of retired persons’ collective representation with the Trustees of the Pension Schemes of which they are members and, perhaps more problematically, with former employers where changes to the scheme are being negotiated between employers and employees that may impact on retired persons.

My Officials have also consulted with the industrial relations bodies under the auspices of my Department on the issues that arise in the context of collective representation of retired and deferred members of pension schemes in such circumstances.

In this context, issues that need to be considered include;

- the relationship, if any, between pensioners or deferred pensioners and their former employer. In this context, the relationship is with the pension scheme and by extension with the trustees of the scheme, rather than the employer.

- the representativeness of such groups and whether they have a mandate or mechanisms to conclude a collective agreement.

Consular Services Staff

Questions (22)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

22. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps being taken to ensure the financial probity of those appointed as consuls or honorary consuls abroad. [23980/14]

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Written answers

The Government, on foot of proposals made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, nominates officers to Heads of Mission posts, including to positions as Consuls General. The nominated Consuls General are career civil servants and are subject to the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour and the Ethics in Public Office Acts.

Every Honorary Consul must agree to be supervised by the Head of Mission accredited to the host country and must be willing to facilitate inspection visits by the Mission. They can only claim for agreed expenditure on a vouched basis. They must submit accounts every six months and an annual report on the activities of the Consulate. If and where queries arise these are pursued by the Department and addressed as appropriate.

Ireland has been well served by our network of Honorary Consuls who provide their services on an unsalaried basis. They are also expected to provide an office and staffing at their own expense. Our Honorary Consuls, particularly in countries where Ireland has no resident Mission, provide for the welfare of Irish citizens either resident or visiting that country (sometimes in very difficult circumstances). They also endeavour to develop greater trade and economic relations with that area.

Emigrant Support Services

Questions (23)

Robert Troy

Question:

23. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the financial assistance available to Irish persons living abroad on working visa who get sick or injured and are out of work for a number of weeks. [23998/14]

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Written answers

I wish to inform the Deputy that there is no financial assistance available from this Department in such circumstances. This Department advises the Irish citizen to speak directly with their insurance company on this matter. Also Irish citizens working abroad may have earned an entitlement to assistance under the host country’s social security system. The person can check what is available under the terms of their visa with the appropriate authorities in the host country. Individuals may also be advised to alternatively check with the Department of Social Protection as to whether or not they may be entitled to any benefits under their system. As you will be aware, this Department advises all Irish citizens living and working abroad purchase comprehensive travel and medical insurance.

International Agreements

Questions (24)

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

24. Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade on the 20th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development, his views on the current status of the action programme; his plans to ensure its approach is reflected in the post-2015 framework; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24011/14]

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Written answers

The Programme of Action adopted by the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) in Cairo marked an important new consensus that increasing social, economic and political equality should be the basis for individual well-being, lower population growth, and sustainable development.

In April this year, the United Nations Commission on Population and Development met to assess progress in implementing the Programme of Action, twenty years on. Drawing on data from 176 countries, the UN Population Fund reported significant achievements.

Today, fewer women are dying in pregnancy and childbirth. Worldwide, maternal mortality, while still at an unacceptably high level, fell by nearly half between 1990 and 2010. More women now have access to education, work and political participation. More children, girls in particular, are going to school; primary school enrolment rates are now approaching 90%. Nearly 1 billion people have moved out of extreme poverty.

However, progress remains uneven and fragmented. In the poorest communities, women’s status, maternal mortality, and rates of child marriage, have seen too little progress over the past two decades. Every day, some 800 women will die giving birth. Worldwide, one in three women report having experienced physical and/or sexual abuse. In developing countries, one in three girls are married before the age of 18, with serious consequences for their opportunities for a better life.

The Government’s development policy contains an explicit commitment to the Cairo Programme of Action, through efforts that reduce maternal and infant mortality and promote universal access to reproductive healthcare, including ante-natal care and family planning services. We are committed to playing a full and active role in ensuring that the ICPD Programme of Action is fully reflected in the global development framework to replace the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), after 2015.

During Ireland’s Presidency of the EU Council last year, we negotiated Council Conclusions which provided a strong EU voice for the Post 2015 Framework, including supporting the full and effective implementation of the ICPD Programme of Action. Ireland and South Africa co-facilitated the MDG Special Event in September 2013 which endorsed a strong outcome document. It provides a clear commitment to maximising progress under the MDGs and a roadmap for the negotiation of a new global development framework post-2015. Since last year, Ireland has been actively engaged in the Open Working Group on Sustainable Development Goals at the United Nations which is the main intergovernmental forum tasked with developing recommendations on the Post 2015 framework. We will continue these efforts over the coming year to ensure that the ICPD commitments are at the heart of a new development framework.

Human Rights Issues

Questions (25)

Clare Daly

Question:

25. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will intervene with the Pakistani authorities and condemn, in the highest possible way, the stoning to death of Farzana Parveen in Pakistan on 27 May. [24050/14]

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Written answers

I condemn the brutal killing of Farzana Parveen, in Pakistan on Tuesday 27 May, as I condemn all such so-called “honour killings”. My Department has consulted with the Pakistani authorities and based on these contacts, it appears that the authorities in Pakistan are taking measures to bring those responsible to justice. We understand two separate investigations have been launched into the circumstances of the violent death of Ms Farzana Parveen. The first was initiated at the behest of the Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif. As part of this investigation, a number of suspects have already been arrested and charged including members of the victim’s family. Prosecution of the case will be conducted using anti-terrorism legislation, which is designed to facilitate a prompt trial. A second investigation was also launched on the initiative of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Lahore. He ordered the Attorney General to report to him within 48 hours about the facts and circumstances of the death of Ms Farzana Parveen. Ireland considers that it is of the utmost importance that all those implicated in this heinous crime are brought to justice. It is also important that Pakistan, as a State Party to the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), takes appropriate action to prevent such killings in the future and end all forms of violence against women.

Northern Ireland Issues

Questions (26)

Brendan Smith

Question:

26. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the issues discussed at his recent meeting with the Northern Ireland Secretary of State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24069/14]

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Written answers

On 29 May 2014, I met with Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Theresa Villiers in Dublin.We discussed developments in the Northern Ireland Party Leaders’ talks. We agreed that the coming weeks will be a crucial period in ensuring progress. The Secretary of State and I encouraged Party Leaders to do everything possible to take these matters forward. At our meeting we expressed our respective Governments’ commitment to actively supporting the talks. We discussed the important work of the International Fund for Ireland, the situation in prisons in Northern Ireland, and the funding of Protestant schools in Ireland. We also discussed our concerns ahead of the upcoming parading season.

I again raised the matter of the British government granting access to information related to the Dublin-Monaghan bombings. The Secretary of State assured me that she will reflect afresh on what the British Government can do to respond to this request.

Northern Ireland Issues

Questions (27, 28, 29)

Brendan Smith

Question:

27. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has raised with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and members of the Northern Ireland Executive the need to establish the North-South Consultative Forum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24079/14]

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Brendan Smith

Question:

28. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has raised recently with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and members of the Northern Ireland Executive the need to progress the proposed Irish language Act; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24080/14]

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Brendan Smith

Question:

29. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has raised with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland the need to provide a Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland, as provided for in the Good Friday Agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24082/14]

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Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 27 to 29, inclusive, together.

The Good Friday and St Andrews Agreements are essential to the achievement of reconciliation and mutual trust in Northern Ireland and in the totality of relations between these islands. I continue to stress the importance of progressing implementation of all outstanding aspects of the Agreements in my ongoing contacts with the British government, and with the Northern Ireland Executive.

I welcome the report agreed at the British Irish Parliamentary Assembly plenary in Dublin on 31 March 2014 on the implementation of the Good Friday and St Andrews Agreement and which calls on all parties to the Agreements ‘to maintain momentum to ensure that all outstanding provisions are implemented in their totality ’.

I support the establishment of a North/South Consultative Civic Forum which would provide for a broad range of voices on community relations and stimulate informed public debate in relation to key societal challenges. The Government has continued to express support for such a body, including at the November 2013 North South Ministerial Council. On my regular visits to Northern Ireland, I continue the practice of engaging with civil society representatives. Officials of my Department are maintaining their efforts to achieve progress on this issue.

I am firmly of the view that an Irish Language Act should be introduced in Northern Ireland. All parties to the Good Friday Agreement recognised the importance of respect, understanding and tolerance in relation to linguistic diversity in Northern Ireland.

Since the restoration of the devolved Institutions on 8 May 2007, the question of an Irish Language Act for Northern Ireland has been a devolved matter and is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland Executive and in particular the Minister for Culture, Arts and Leisure, Ms. Carál Ní Chuilín MLA.

I will continue to press in my discussions with the Northern Ireland Executive and with the British Government the urgent need to address this issue and to legislate for an Irish Language Act.

I continue to urge all the parties in the Northern Ireland Assembly to engage in constructive discussion with a view to reaching agreement on the substance of a Bill of Rights.

A Bill of Rights drawn up by agreement between the main parties of the Assembly could set out precisely and formally the rights underpinning a reconciled society in Northern Ireland. I, and my officials, will continue to engage with counterparts in the British Government and in the Northern Ireland Executive on this matter.

Dublin-Monaghan Bombings

Questions (30)

Brendan Smith

Question:

30. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he raised with the Northern Ireland Secretary of State at his recent meeting the need for the British Government to respond positively and without further delay to the motions passed unanimously in Dáil Éireann requesting the British Government to release the papers-files pertaining to the Dublin-Monaghan bombings of 17 May 1974; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24084/14]

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Written answers

The 40th anniversary of the Dublin-Monaghan bombings on 17 May was a reminder to us all of the painful legacy of that terrible day, and of the questions that remain unanswered. On 6 May, I met with survivors and families of the victims of the Dublin-Monaghan bombings and with Justice for the Forgotten and confirmed the Government’s ongoing support for their campaign. At that meeting, I announced funding of €48,000 for Justice for the Forgotten, which now operates as a project of the Pat Finucane Centre, which will be disbursed through the Reconciliation Fund operated by my Department. The Taoiseach and Minister of State Costello participated in a memorial event which took place on Talbot Street on 17 May and I was represented at a wreath-laying ceremony in Monaghan on 18 May by an official from my Department. I welcome the continued all-party support for their campaign on behalf of the Dublin/Monaghan families.

The Taoiseach and I have reiterated our support for the all-party Dáil motions of July 2008 and May 2011 urging the British Government to allow access by an independent international judicial figure to all original documents in their possession relating to the bombings.

I raised the issue of the British Government granting access to these documents when I met with Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Theresa Villiers in Dublin last week. She assured me that she will reflect afresh on what the British Government can do to respond. In the meantime, officials from my Department will continue to pursue this issue and I will continue to raise it at ministerial level.

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