Written Answers Nos 121-149
121. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when a capital assistance scheme application in respect of an organisation (details supplied) in County Limerick will be signed off by his Department's Inspector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4018/15]
View answerThe implementation of projects under my Department’s Capital Assistance Programme is a matter for each individual local authority. In this case, my Department issued approval in principle to the local authority in May 2014, subject to the proposal complying with the requirements of the Capital Works Management Framework and the Public Spending Code.
Full approval can only be given by my Department when the proposal is finalised within those requirements. Further information in that regard has recently been received from the local authority and is currently under consideration. My Department will be in further contact with the local authority when this correspondence has been fully assessed.
122. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which provision will be made hereby first family home buyers will compete in the market place with the investment sector, thereby addressing part of the housing need and shifting the balance in favour of homeowners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4038/15]
View answer125. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of house purchase transactions undertaken by family home buyers in the past 12 months to date; the number of homes acquired by the investment sector in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4042/15]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 122 and 125 together.
The Government is acutely aware of the difficulties facing people in accessing housing and is undertaking a range of actions to address the matter.
My Department’s Housing Land Availability Survey (HLAS) estimates that there is in excess of 25,000 hectares of undeveloped residentially zoned land nationally, which equates to a capacity for over 500,000 new homes (based on a national average of 20 units per hectare). This capacity is considered to be sufficient to meet the housing requirements nationally for in excess of the next ten years.
The challenge is to translate this potential supply line into actual construction on the ground to meet demand. Most of the difficulties currently being encountered can be addressed by increasing the supply of properties available to buy, to rent, and to be provided by Local Authorities and Approved Housing Bodies.
The Government recognises that a whole of Government approach, working in close cooperation with key stakeholders, is the only way to tackle the challenge of increasing the supply of housing. The implementation of the Construction Strategy 2020 forms the basis for a properly functioning and sustainable construction sector. It provides for a strategic approach to the provision of housing based on real and measured demand and addresses the full range of relevant issues including the planning process, financing, access to mortgage finance, and developing the construction workforce. Construction 2020, and two Planning Bills currently being drafted, aim to remove blockages from the system in order to support increased supply, reducing the pressure on house price growth and helping homebuyers to acquire a family home in their community of choice at reasonable cost.
Measures to increase supply will also impact positively on the private rental sector. Historically, the private rental sector has been characterised by small scale landlords. Attracting large scale investment in professionally managed residential property, for example using Real Estate Investment Trusts and other options for long-term investment, has an important role to play in helping to deliver a more professional and higher quality sector.
Social housing is also a key priority for Government, as evidenced by the additional €2.2 billion in funding announced for social housing in Budget 2015 and the publication of the Social Housing Strategy 2020 in November 2014. The Strategy builds on the provisions contained in Budget 2015 and sets out clear, measurable actions and targets to increase the supply of social housing, reform delivery arrangements and meet the housing needs of all households on the housing list.
The total targeted provision of over 110,000 social housing units, through the delivery of 35,000 new social housing units and meeting the housing needs of some 75,000 households through the Housing Assistance Payment and Rental Accommodation Scheme, will address the needs of the 90,000 households on the housing waiting list in full, with flexibility to meet potential future demand. This will help to ease pressure on the private sector.
In 2015, I expect that some 7,400 new social housing units will be provided- 3,000 units through the leasing initiative; 1,000 vacant local authority units will be returned to use through a programme of refurbishment; a further 1,400 units to be built or acquired by local authorities and approved housing bodies through the Social Housing Investment Programme and the Capital Assistance Scheme; and a further 2,000 new Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) units will be delivered. In addition, 8,400 households will be assisted through the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP).
I will be continuing to assign the highest priority to the implementation of both Construction 2020 and the Social Housing Strategy.
As regards statistics on types of homebuyers over the last year, whilst my Department gathers and publishes a wide range of housing and planning statistics, the closest source of data to that requested by the Deputy is the Residential Property Price Register, which is produced by the Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA) pursuant to section 86 of the Property Services (Regulation) Act 2011 and which is available at: www.propertypriceregister.ie .
The Register includes Date of Sale, Price and Address of all residential properties purchased in Ireland since 1 January 2010, as declared to the Revenue Commissioners for stamp duty purposes. However, the Register is not intended as a "Property Price Index" and does not record whether house purchases are made by family home buyers or investors.
123. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which his Department has sought information from the various local authorities on a county basis in respect of the local authority housing need with particular reference to the Dublin local authorities and the other counties of Leinster adjacent thereto; if it has been possible to determine a minimum number of houses needed to address the housing crisis in their respective areas without exception; the total number of houses needed to address the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4040/15]
View answer124. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to meet the rapidly increasing local authority housing needs in the counties adjoining Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4041/15]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 123 and 124 together.
Social housing is a key priority for the Government, evidenced by the additional €2.2 billion in funding announced for social housing in Budget 2015 and the publication of the Social Housing Strategy 2020 in November 2014. The Strategy builds on the provisions contained in Budget 2015 and sets out clear, measurable actions and targets to increase the supply of social housing, reform delivery arrangements and meet the housing needs of all households on the housing list. Importantly, the Strategy restores the State to a central role in the provision of social housing.
The total targeted provision of over 110,000 social housing units, through the delivery of 35,000 new social housing units and meeting the housing needs of some 75,000 households through the Housing Assistance Payment and Rental Accommodation Scheme, will address the needs of the 90,000 households on the housing waiting list in full, with flexibility to meet potential future demand. In committing to provide these 35,000 new social housing units, at a projected cost of €3.8 billion, the strategy marks a fresh start for social housing in Ireland.
Over the 6 years of the strategy, I anticipate that the 35,000 units will be delivered as follows: some 22,300 units to be built and acquired utilising both current and capital monies; 11,000 units to be leased; and 2,300 units to be supplied through the refurbishment and bringing back in to use of vacant local authority stock.
Under the relevant actions of the Social Housing Strategy, national targets for delivery of social housing on a local authority by local authority basis are to be agreed for each year. Action 1 of the Strategy requires the agreement of national targets for delivery of social housing on a local authority by local authority basis this year and in subsequent years. Action 4 of the Strategy requires the 4 Dublin local authorities to agree similar targets. Action 1 will be delivered by the Project Board while Action 4 is the responsibility of the Dublin Social Housing Delivery Taskforce. Both actions will be delivered in quarter 1 2015. To this end both Groups have recently met in recent days and have agreed the process on setting targets for each local authority. Consultation with individual Local Authorities is now taking place.
The Summary of Social Housing Assessments 2013 identified 89,872 households assessed by local housing authorities as being eligible and in need of some form of social housing support. The results of this assessment have informed the Project Board, the Dublin Social Housing Delivery Taskforce and local authorities in terms of the target setting process underway. Furthermore, the Strategy commits to the undertaking of the Housing Needs Assessment on an annual basis from 2016 to ensure that social housing supports delivered continue to match the variable profile of those in need.
126. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which his Department continues to monitor progress in regard to the completion of development works in unfinished housing estates, on a county basis; the extent of the works completed so far and that remaining; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4043/15]
View answerSince 2010, an annual national housing survey of unfinished housing developments has been conducted during the summer months to monitor progress. Since 2010, the number of unfinished housing developments has decreased by approximately, two-thirds; from nearly 3,000 in 2010 to 992 in 2014. It is expected that with the aid of the Special Resolution Fund (SRF), outlined further below, a further 74 developments should be resolved in the months ahead. The SRF has already positively contributed to 12 developments inspected under the 2014 Annual Survey being removed from the list of Unfinished Housing Developments. The detailed findings of the annual surveys, annual progress reports and other useful publications and information in relation to Unfinished Housing Developments are available on the Housing Agency’s website at:
http://www.housing.ie/Our-Services/Unfinished-Housing-Developments.aspx .
As Minister for Housing and Planning and Coordination of Construction 2020, I now chair the National Coordination Committee on Unfinished Housing Developments. The Committee comprises senior representatives of the key stakeholders, including the banking and construction industries, NAMA, local authorities, the Health and Safety Authority, residents and officials from my Department. The Committee was established to drive and oversee the implementation of the recommendations of ‘Resolving Ireland’s Unfinished Housing Developments – Report of the Advisory Group on Unfinished Housing Developments’, published in May 2011.
The Committee has met on 13 occasions and has adopted a collaborative approach amongst its constituent members to promote the work of resolving the housing situation faced by residents of unfinished housing developments. The Committee is scheduled to meet again on 10 February 2015.
The development of Site Resolution Plans (SRPs), agreed between residents, developers, funders and local authority personnel for the finalisation of works on site to render estates as habitable as possible, have been pivotal in resolving a large number of estates. The 2014 National Housing Survey shows that, of the 1,263 estates inspected, there were 587 estates going through the SRP process. This collaborative approach serves the best interests of all concerned and is an effective tool in the resolution process. For more information on Site Resolution Plans, please refer to section 3.4 of the Guidance Manual on Managing and Resolving Unfinished Estates, August 2011 –
http://www.housing.ie/Our-Services/Unfinished-Housing-Developments/Guidance-Manual-on-Resolving-Unfinished-Housing-De/Guidance-Materials/Guidance-Manual_Managing-and-Resolving-Unfinished.aspx .
Budget 2014 contained a special provision, in the form of a targeted €10m Special Resolution Fund (SRF), to assist further in addressing the legacy of unfinished housing developments. The SRF is designed to encourage the resolution of the remaining tranche of unfinished developments identified in the National Housing Development Survey 2013 and, particularly, those developments not likely to be resolved in the normal way through solely developer/owner/funder action because of the presence of specific financial barriers.
On 2 May 2014, allocations from the Special Resolution Fund were announced and 86 developments were approved for funding. The following link contains a list of all developments approved for SRF funding:
http://www.environ.ie/en/DevelopmentHousing/Housing/News/MainBody,37940,en.htm .
The management and administration of issues relating to unfinished housing developments is a matter for individual local authorities. Each local authority has appointed an Unfinished Housing Development co-ordinator; contact details can be found on the Housing Agency’s website at: www.housing.ie .
127. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which he and his Department have managed to address the inherited issue of distressed shared ownership mortgages; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4044/15]
View answerIn 2013, the Housing Agency was asked to conduct a standalone review of the shared ownership scheme, including identification of the main difficulties and recommendations for mitigating measures. While an initial draft of the review was received from the Agency, a number of issues have been identified that need further detailed financial analysis in order to fully assess the impact on local authority finances of possible mitigating measures.
This substantial data collection project involving my Department, the Local Government Management Agency and the local authorities themselves is under way. It will be a number of months before sufficient data has been collected in order to complete the requisite analysis to finalise the review.
Pending full conclusion of this review, my Department issued a circular letter to local authorities setting out some of the options and interim actions that might be explored to alleviate the difficulties of those in shared ownership distress, such as allowing use of the Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process and room rental for Shared Ownership mortgage holders. It is accepted that these proposals are not a complete solution to the issues that arise for such mortgage holders but are intended as an interim measure pending the outcome of the review.
My Department issued revised guidelines to local authorities for dealing with mortgage arrears within the local authority sector in June 2014. Dealing with Mortgage Arrears: A Guide for Local Authorities is available on my Department’s website at:
http://www.environ.ie/en/Publications/DevelopmentandHousing/Housing/FileDownLoad,30943,en.pdf.
128. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which provision has been made to date to address the issue of carbon emissions; his targets in this regard; if they are in line with global and European targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4045/15]
View answer131. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the current position in regard to Ireland’s response to EU or other international agreements in relation to climate change; if a progressive plan has been formulated to address any issues arising with a view to ensuring that no damage is done in the context of economic recovery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4049/15]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 128 and 131 together.
Ireland is on course to comply with its greenhouse gas emission reduction target for the purposes of the Kyoto Protocol in the commitment period 2008 to 2012. The Doha Amendment to the Kyoto Protocol, which establishes a second commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol from 2013 to 2020, was agreed in 2012 but has not yet entered into force. Ireland has completed the necessary domestic acceptance procedures in relation to the Doha Amendment and will be in a position to formally accept it in the third quarter of 2015.
For each year between 2013 and 2020, Ireland has an ambitious greenhouse gas emission reduction target under the 2009 EU Effort-Sharing Decision (406/2009/EC).
Furthermore, in October 2014, the European Council endorsed a binding EU target of an at least 40% domestic reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 levels and specified that the target will be delivered collectively by the EU in the most cost-effective manner possible, with the reductions in the ETS and non-ETS sectors amounting to 43% and 30% by 2030 compared to 2005, respectively. While the specific details of the contribution to be made by each Member State remain to be defined, the Council agreed that all Member States will participate in this effort, balancing considerations of fairness and solidarity.
The extent of the challenge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in line with our EU and international commitments, is well understood by Government, as reflected in the National Policy Position on Climate Action and Low-Carbon Development, published in April 2014, and in the Climate Action and Low-Carbon Development Bill 2015, published last week. The National Policy Position provides a high-level policy direction for the adoption and implementation by Government of plans to enable the State to move to a low-carbon economy by 2050. Proposed statutory authority for the plans is set out in the Climate Action and Low-Carbon Development Bill 2015.
In anticipation of enactment of the planned legislation, work is already underway on developing a low-carbon plan - the National Mitigation Plan, the primary objective of which will be to track implementation of measures already underway and identify additional measures within the longer term to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and progress the overall national low carbon transition agenda to 2050. I am satisfied that Ireland is on course to comply with the annual mitigation targets under the 2009 EU Effort-Sharing Decision (406/2009/EC) in the first half of the 2013-2020 compliance period.
However, there will be a significant compliance challenge in the years 2017-2020 and therefore the first iteration of the National Mitigation Plan will place particular focus on putting the necessary measures in place to address this particular challenge in the years 2017 to 2020 but also in terms of planning ahead to be ensure that appropriate policies and measures will be in place beyond that. It is also important to note that the Bill will provide for long-term successive planning in this respect.
2015 will also be a pivotal year in terms of the international response to climate change, with all 196 Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change working to conclude a new global agreement in Paris in December. The Paris outcome will build on existing agreements and chart a course for future global emissions reductions. Ireland, through the EU, will play its part in these negotiations and the globally agreed actions arising. The October 2014, European Council commitment will be the basis of the EU’s intended nationally-determined contribution to the new agreement.
On economic considerations, the National Policy Position clearly identifies competitiveness as a pillar of the fundamental national objective on transition to a low-carbon economy by 2050. The National Policy Position also sets out a number of key issues for consideration in the on-going evolution of national climate policy, including:
(i) the need to ensure that objectives are achieved at the least cost to the national economy and that any measures adopted to achieve those objectives are cost-effective, and do not impose an unreasonable burden on the Exchequer; and
(ii) the need to take advantage of environmentally sustainable economic opportunities both within and outside the State.
The Climate Action and Low-Carbon Development Bill 2015 also includes provisions to statutorily underpin these and other key economic considerations, to be taken into account in the development of the mitigation and adaptation plans to be adopted by the Government for the purpose of progressing the national transition agenda.
129. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which carcinogenic air or water pollutants have been identified at the various monitoring points throughout the country; the degree to which it will improve the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4046/15]
View answerAir quality monitoring in Ireland is carried out to meet the requirements of EU Directive 2008/50/EC on ambient air quality and cleaner air for Europe, also known as the CAFE Directive. The Directive requires that certain minimum levels of monitoring are conducted for the purpose of assessment and management of air quality. The EPA has responsibility for the monitoring of air quality in Ireland, and monitors a range of atmospheric pollutants, based on data obtained from the 29 monitoring stations that form the national ambient air quality network. The EPA also publishes an annual report on air quality, based primarily on the monitoring requirements of the CAFE Directive.
The most recent report, Air Quality in Ireland 2013 – Key Indicators of Ambient Air Quality, was published in October 2014 and provides an assessment of air quality in Ireland for 2013, compared to the CAFE Directive standards as well as assessments in relation to more stringent World Health Organisation (WHO) air quality guidelines for the protection of human health.
Downward trends have been identified for many pollutants and Ireland currently meets all EU standards for air quality but exceeds WHO air quality guidelines for particulate matter in some areas. Particulate matter levels are of concern, particularly during the winter heating season in areas where the sale of smoky coal is permitted. As a result, levels of particulate matter in smaller towns are similar or higher than those in cities where smoky coal is banned. To help protect our good air quality, the Irish consumer must become more aware of their choice in home heating fuel and the potential impact that choice can have on air quality in their locality and on human health.
Nitrogen dioxide levels (NO2) levels showed a slight increasing trend in the years 2008 2010. During this period, NO2 levels were close to the CAFE limit value in Dublin and Cork cities, due primarily to traffic congestion. However, NO2 levels decreased from 2010-2012, and thereafter may have stabilised in 2013. To further reduce NO2 levels in cities, we must develop and implement policies to reduce travel demand, emphasising sustainable transport modes such as cycling, walking and public transport and improving the efficiency of motorised transport.
In respect of monitoring of water quality, the EPA, local authorities, Inland Fisheries Ireland and the Marine Institute all monitor rivers, lakes, transitional and coastal waters, and groundwater quality under the Water Framework Directive on a three-year cycle. This extensive monitoring programme provides a good overview of current water quality and trends as they develop.
Water quality trends emerging in recent years include a notable decline in the incidence of serious pollution events from 39 sites in the 2004-2006 period, to 20 sites in the 2007-2009 period and currently down to 11 sites. There has also been a stabilisation in the length of river channel regarded as unpolluted, at approximately 71% of the length surveyed. However, the period has also been marked by a steady decline in the number of river sites at high ecological status.
It is anticipated that a new national update for 2010-2012 will be available early this year. In the meantime, the EPA has published regional reports covering the south east, Louth/Monaghan and Galway/Mayo/Sligo, including information from 2012 monitoring. The EPA and local authorities respond to water quality incidents and complaints on an on-going basis. Details of recent incidents are available on the EPA website and can be accessed at: http://www.epa.ie/news/incidents/recent. Additional information is available at: http://www.epa.ie/pubs/reports/indicators/00061_EPA_SoE_2012.pdf.
Comprehensive reports on water quality are published every three years by the EPA and are available for download at http://www.epa.ie/pubs/reports/water/waterqua .
130. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which adequate resources remain available to the various local authorities to facilitate the provision of housing adaptation grants to meet the requirements of those with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4048/15]
View answerLast year, Exchequer funding of over €37 million was provided for the Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability. I am pleased to be in a position to increase that funding by some 10% in 2015 to €40.4 million; individual allocations to local authorities will be made shortly.
Through careful management of my Department’s housing budget in 2014, additional funds were made available to local authorities with high levels of grant activity under this scheme. The same scrutiny will be applied to the capital budget for 2015 and, in the event of savings arising, opportunities will be examined to reallocate funds accordingly.
132. Deputy Gabrielle McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when Part 2 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2014 will be commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4061/15]
View answerThe Government’s Social Housing Strategy 2020, published in November 2014, includes a commitment to commence Part 2 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2014 in the first quarter of this year.
133. Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding bursaries or grants available to a start-up enterprise providing spinning and hand weaving classes and demonstrations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4078/15]
View answerFunding for start-up enterprises and associated training was eligible under the LEADER element of the Rural Development Programme 2007 – 2013. However, that Programme is now fully committed.
I expect that the 2014-2020 Rural Development Programme will commence during 2015 and projects involving enterprise development and job creation, if identified as a priority in the Local Development Strategy, will be eligible for funding.
134. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if a renewable heat incentive will be introduced for renewable energy this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4036/15]
View answerIn October last year, I published a Draft Bioenergy Plan which is available on my Department’s website (www.dcenr.gov.ie). The draft Plan will undergo Strategic Environmental and Appropriate Assessments, including public consultation, which will inform the content of the finalised Plan.
The analysis underpinning the draft Plan is that an additional bioenergy focused measure in the heat sector would represent the most cost effective means of meeting a number of different policy goals. Therefore, the draft Plan recommends the introduction of a Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) for larger heat users to change to heating solutions that produce heat from renewable sources.
The terms and conditions of the RHI, including those relating to support tariffs and eligible technologies, will be established during the process of designing the scheme which is due to commence later this year. The RHI scheme, once designed, will require State Aid approval from the European Commission and further Government approval. It is proposed to have the scheme in place in 2016.
135. Deputy Áine Collins asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the regulator's role in ensuring that proper reductions are passed on to the consumer considering the huge reductions in oil in recent times. [3988/15]
View answerThe Commission for Energy Regulation's (CER) primary economic responsibilities in energy are to regulate the Irish electricity and natural gas sectors. There is free entry to the Irish oil market, no price control and it is Government policy to encourage price competition and consumer choice. It is important to note that the Irish oil sector is completely privatised, liberalised and deregulated i.e. CER has no role in the oil market.
Oil is consumed in two sectors of the economy - in transport and heating. The amount of oil used in the electricity sector is negligible at less than 1%. In terms of gasoline and diesel prices at the pump and home heating prices, the Consumer and Competition Commission (under the aegis of the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation) has a role in ensuring that the market is functioning correctly and that consumers are not being disadvantaged. Previous investigations and surveys into oil prices, including home heating oil, have been undertaken by the National Consumer Agency (now the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission), and these are available at www.ccpc.ie. The research indicates that the price paid by consumers is largely determined by taxation levels, the internationally traded price of crude oil and the consequent price at which refined product is traded in Europe, along with the level of competition in the retail market.
The European Commission maintains a Statistics and Market Observatory, which presents consumer prices and net prices (excluding duties and taxes) of petroleum products in EU Member States (known as the Oil Bulletin) on a weekly basis. The Oil Bulletin is designed to improve the transparency of oil prices and to strengthen the internal market. The relevant link is: http://ec.europa.eu/energy/observatory/oil/bulletin_en.htm. The latest bulletin from 19 January 2014 shows that diesel prices (including taxes) in Ireland were €1.20 litre while gasoline prices (including taxes) were €1.30 litre. A year ago, prices in the euro area averaged €1.40 per litre (including taxes) for diesel and €1.56 per litre (including taxes) for gasoline.
136. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that County Kerry now has a broadband crisis; his views on the huge disadvantage the lack of adequate broadband is causing in Kerry; if urgent action will be taken by him to address the problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4057/15]
View answerThe Government has acknowledged the unreliable quality of broadband connectivity in many rural parts of the country including County Kerry. The NBP will deal conclusively with rural connectivity issues so that current and future generations will have a guaranteed access to high quality, high speed broadband service. This will be achieved through a combination of commercial investments and a State led intervention in areas where commercial services will not be provided.
The commercial telecommunications sector is currently investing approximately €2.5 billion in network upgrades in both the fixed and mobile segments of the market. Approximately 1.6 million of the 2.3 million premises in Ireland are expected to have access to commercial high speed broadband services over the next two years. These very significant investments, which include many parts of County Kerry, represent a step-change in the quality of broadband services available.
On the 24 November last, a public consultation on a national high speed coverage map 2016 was launched. The map can be accessed at www.broadband.gov.ie. The areas on the map marked Blue will all have access to high speed broadband services of at least 30 Mbps from the commercial sector by end of 2016. The areas marked Amber will require the intervention of the State.
The map allows all members of the public, be they business or residential, to see whether their premises/home will have access to commercial high speed broadband services by end 2016 or whether they will be included in the Government's proposed intervention. It also provides detailed information on over 50,000 townlands in every county in Ireland, including County Kerry.
It is anticipated that speeds of at least 30 Mbps will be also delivered through the Government's intervention and the network will be designed to cater for future increased demand from consumers and business.
In tandem with the mapping consultation, intensive design and planning work is underway in my Department to produce a detailed intervention strategy. The strategy will address a range of issues in relation to the intervention including the optimum procurement model, ownership model for the infrastructure, intervention cost and likely market impact.
My Department has engaged external advisors to provide legal, economic, technical and financial advice on the various aspects of the Plan over the next two years. The next steps in this process will see a further public consultation on a detailed intervention strategy in mid-2015. The Intervention Strategy will be notified to the European Commission for State Aid clearance.
Following the public consultation, towards the end of this year a detailed procurement process will be undertaken in order to select preferred bidder or bidders. The Department will design a tender in a way that maximises efficiencies and keeps the cost of the network build as low as possible. It is expected that the physical build of this network will commence from 2016 with services being available incrementally as the network is rolled out.
This complex and ambitious project is a key priority for Government. It aims to conclusively address current connectivity challenges in Ireland.
137. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if action will be taken by him to move forward the Shannon LNG project and its associated jobs and investment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4058/15]
View answerSince 2002, the regulation of the gas market has been the responsibility of the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), which is independent in the performance of its functions. I have no direct statutory function in relation to liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects, including specific projects such as the Shannon LNG project.
Both I and Government colleagues have consistently been supportive of the proposal by Shannon LNG to construct a LNG terminal near Ballylongford, county Kerry. The LNG facility would provide additional security of supply to Ireland in that it would bring diversity to Ireland's supply sources and would bring connectivity for the first time to the global LNG market. Such a facility would be a positive step for the island of Ireland. While neither I, as Minister, nor my Department has any direct role in regard to the project, representatives of Shannon LNG have had meetings with my predecessor and with my officials to discuss various issues. Any final investment decision in the proposed Shannon LNG project would be a commercial matter and one entirely for the company to take.
138. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps that will be taken, following a decision on the future transport solution for Dublin north, to allow for the construction of the new transport link to begin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3967/15]
View answerAll projects costing over €20m are subject to appraisal and evaluation (including review of a detailed business case) under the Public Spending Code. The project recommended following the outcome of studies currently underway will be subject to review in my Department and in the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform before a final decision is made.
Any decision on the timeline for delivery would be premature at this stage pending the outcome of the studies and identification of the preferred project.
However the projected cost of the selected project, funding availability and funding options will be a key determinant on timing of delivery.
139. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will report on the procedures for issuing on-the-spot fines for cycling on the footpath; if young children will be exempt from these fines as the Road Safety Authority states that children under 12 should not cycle on public roads; his plans to improve cycling infrastructure in view of the imposition of this fine. [3987/15]
View answerAction 92 of the Road Safety Strategy 2013-2020 provides that the fixed charge notice system will be extended to include offences committed by cyclists. My Department is consulting with the Gardaí and the Road Safety Authority at present to develop proposals in relation to this Action. The legal provisions necessary will be drafted in the coming months and any primary legislation necessary will be included in a draft road traffic Bill that I expect to bring to Government shortly.
140. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the delay in issuing a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6W with their taxi identification badge; and when they will receive same. [4012/15]
View answerThe regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013.
I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
141. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the new sports capital programme will open to applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4028/15]
View answerDetailed preparations are being made at present in my Department for the next round of the Sports Capital Programme. I expect to make an announcement about the 2015 Programme in the near future.
142. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the funding/support available for a community group (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4067/15]
View answerAll funding available to my Department for the development of cycleways/greenways is fully committed up to the end of 2016. It is possible, given the success of the projects already delivered, that funding may become available from other sources over the coming years.
I am familiar with the details of the proposed project having met with representatives of Boyneside Trail Ltd in November, 2014. Should any funding become available for the purpose of greenway design or development this project can be considered, but it should be noted that funding for this purpose is normally awarded following a competitive process.
The LEADER programme may also be a possible source of funding for progressing the initial stages of this project.
Finally, I always recommend that Community Groups work closely with the relevant local authority to continue to progress plans for suitable projects so that when funding does become available that they are in a position to apply for that funding.
143. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if her Department is currently working on a national cultural policy; the process for drafting this policy; when this policy will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3995/15]
View answerI am committed to the delivery of the country's first ever national cultural policy - Culture 2025- and will be initiating a wide-scale consultation process to ensure that all stakeholders and members of the public can make their views know. With this in mind, a draft discussion paper is currently being finalised, which I hope to publish shortly.
144. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the current relationship between the Lincoln Centre and the National Concert Hall; the total budget spent by the National Concert Hall from 2011 to date in 2015; the money accrued from that relationship to the National Concert Hall from 2011 to date in 2015; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3996/15]
View answer145. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if her attention has been drawn to the conflicting legal advice received by the board of the National Concert Hall with regard to its relationship with the Lincoln Centre and the NCH's fundraising activities; the reason the Attorney General was asked to advise the NCH Board; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3997/15]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 144 and 145 together.
My Department provides funding to the National Cultural Institutions, including the National Concert Hall (NCH). However, the board of the NCH is responsible for all operational matters, including fundraising, and I have no direct function in these matters. In this regard, I understand that the board decided not to proceed with the proposed arrangement between the Lincoln Centre and the NCH in 2013.
However, in order to address general queries being raised at that time, my Department sought advice from the Office of the Attorney General on the issue of the establishment by the NCH of a fundraising foundation. The outcome of that advice was subsequently communicated to the board.
It is my intention that the proposed Bill to place the NCH on a statutory footing will clarify the legal position regarding fundraising activities.
146. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if reports have been carried out on the future of the National Concert Hall between 2011 and 2015; if all these reports are public; her views on the recommendation of the reports; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3998/15]
View answer148. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she is satisfied with the current governance of the National Concert Hall; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4000/15]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 146 and 148 together.
An independent review, commissioned by the board of the National Concert Hall (NCH), regarding the programming, marketing, financial and operational performance of the NCH was carried out by CHL Consulting Company Ltd in association with IMD Group and completed at the end of 2013. A copy of the report was furnished to my predecessor, following which, in November 2013, he requested the board of the NCH to address the matters arising from the report and prepare an implementation plan, including timelines for the effective delivery of the various elements. As the report was commissioned by the board of the NCH, publication is a matter for it.
My predecessor also commissioned the former Secretary General of the Department of Education and Skills to carry out a governance review at NCH, which was completed in July 2014. My Department subsequently referred the report to the Chair of the NCH for consideration. It is also being considered by my Department in the context of the preparation of the legislation to put the NCH on a statutory footing. The report will be made available on my Department's website.
With regard to placing the NCH on a statutory footing, my Department has prepared a general scheme of a Bill, which has been the subject of pre-legislative scrutiny by the Oireachtas Committee on the Environment, Culture and the Gaeltacht. It is intended that the Bill will provide, inter alia, for a governance framework that will ensure appropriate reporting and accounting to the Minister and the Oireachtas by the NCH. I am satisfied that the board is focused on helping the NCH make the transition from a company to a statutory body, while maintaining the highest standards of musical performance for the enjoyment of the public.
It is my intention to publish the National Concert Hall Bill in the coming weeks.
147. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the reasons five board members of the National Concert Hall resigned in April 2014; if she has been in contact with these former board members since their resignation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3999/15]
View answerA number of changes took place on the board of the National Concert Hall during April 2014. Ms Margaret Ryan stepped down as both Chair and member of the board, while four ordinary members also stepped down. Ms Ryan had already indicated her intention of stepping down was to focus entirely on her role with Fáilte Ireland, while I understand that the four ordinary members stepped down due to differences on the board. My predecessor appointed new members to replace those who had stepped down. Since my appointment, correspondence from a former board member was received in my office and has been responded to.
149. Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the position regarding bursaries or grants available to a start-up enterprise providing spinning and hand weaving classes and demonstrations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4074/15]
View answerMy Department does not provide bursaries or grants to a start-up enterprises providing spinning and hand weaving classes or demonstrations.
