Written Answers Nos. 1-79
56. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Defence if he will extend the remit of the scheme he announced on 10 December 2015 for small businesses affected by flooding in order that more businesses may apply as currently funding is only available for businesses that are located within an area that pays local authority commercial rates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2740/16]
View answerThe Government approved the allocation of €5m to be distributed as emergency humanitarian support to small businesses and community, sporting and voluntary bodies which through no fault of their own have been unable to secure flood insurance and have been flooded recently.
The scheme, which is being administered by the Irish Red Cross Society, provides a once-off ex gratia contribution towards the costs of returning a business premises to its pre-flood condition including the replacement of flooring, fixtures and fittings and damaged stock.
The emergency nature of the response to the difficulties caused by the flooding required a streamlined process. At the same time, the distribution of funds provided by the Exchequer must be subject to prudent management and financial controls and to criteria which provide for accountability and auditing.
In the case of small businesses, the controls that have been put in place for payment under the scheme are considered reasonable, including that the business must have been trading at the time of the flooding incident and that the business must have been operating in a rateable premises.
Applications under a threshold of €5,000 are being paid following a quick verification process between the Irish Red Cross and the local authority responsible for the area in which the business was flooded.
The second stage of the scheme provides a means to seek further support of up to €20,000 per property. This involves a more lengthy process requiring a detailed assessment by loss adjusters appointed for this purpose by the Irish Red Cross.
I have visited a number of sites affected by the flooding in recent weeks and have seen at first hand the difficulties many small businesses have experienced. In cases of particular hardship I am open to having the criteria reviewed where exceptional circumstances arise.
57. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Defence given evidence presented at the United Kingdom Parliament Defence Committee's inquiry on Lariam on 13 January 2016 that noted the impossibility of being 100% certain that in every case, an individual is in fact individually assessed prior to being prescribed Lariam, how certain he is that every member of the Defence Forces is individually assessed prior to being prescribed Lariam; in what year did individual assessment became Defence Forces policy; and the operational procedures in place to both facilitate and ensure individual assessment prior to prescribing Lariam. [2793/16]
View answerAs I have already indicated to the House, the choice of medication for overseas deployment, including the use of Lariam, is a medical decision made by Medical Officers in the Irish Defence Forces, having regard to the specific circumstances of the mission and the individual member of the Irish Defence Forces. Significant precautions are taken by Irish Defence Forces Medical Officers in assessing the medical suitability of members of our Defence Forces to take any of the anti-malarial medications.
It is the policy of the Irish Defence Forces that personnel are individually screened for fitness for service overseas and medical suitability. I am advised by the Director Medical Branch that this has been the policy since the Defence Forces first embarked on overseas service.
Where the overseas mission is to a malaria-prone region, a medical risk assessment for Lariam is carried out on an individual basis. The Irish Defence Forces policy in relation to the use of anti-malarial medication is in line with current Health Products Regulatory Authority approved summary of product characteristics. Every effort is made by Defence Forces Medical Officers to ensure compliance with this screening policy.
58. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Defence further to Parliamentary Question No. 19 of 8 October 2015, if any consortium in which the Defence Forces are involved has been successful in its bid for Horizon 2020; the contents of the winning proposals and the identities of those involved in the winning consortium; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2795/16]
View answerI have recently been informed that a Horizon 2020 bid which involves the Defence Forces as a consortium member has recently been successful. The scope of the project is to develop mobile, remotely-controlled technologies to enable an improved identification and detection of Chemical Biological Radioactive Nuclear (CBRN) materials and collection of forensic evidence in a variety of situation and conditions. The overall goal of the project is to fundamentally change how CBRN events are assessed and ensure the safety of Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel and crime scene investigators by reducing the need for them to enter a dangerous scene to gather evidence.
The role of the Ordnance Corps is to participate as "end users" and they will assist in developing scenarios and assessing results.
The project will be led by NUI Galway and involves a number of Irish entities. A number of other countries are also represented in the consortium. While the project has been main-listed for funding, no contract has been awarded yet, and it would therefore be premature to disclose further details in relation to the project and other consortium members at this time.
I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the contribution being made by Defence Organisation in its engagement with Irish-based institutions for research purposes. These collaborations contribute to Defence Forces' capabilities and also support Ireland's economic development.
This latest achievement will undoubtedly open doors for further collaborations between the Defence Organisation and Research Institutes and Companies.
59. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence when Defence Force numbers will reach the agreed ceiling of 9,500; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2749/16]
View answerThe Government is committed to maintaining the stabilised strength of the Permanent Defence Force at 9,500 personnel, comprising of 7,520 Army, 886 Air Corps and 1,094 Naval Service as stated in the 2015 White Paper on Defence. I am advised by the Military Authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force, at 31 December 2015, the latest date for which details are available, was 9,140 whole-time equivalent personnel. This figure comprises 7,309 Army, 748 Air Corps and 1,083 Naval Service whole-time equivalent personnel.
The manpower requirement of the Defence Forces is monitored on an ongoing basis in accordance with the operational requirements of each of the three services. Personnel are posted on the basis of operational needs across the organisation both at home and abroad. The significant turnover of personnel that is the norm in military services, requires targeted recruitment so as to maintain personnel numbers at or near the agreed strength levels.
A General Service recruitment campaign was launched on 4 August 2015 and is ongoing. As of 31 December 2015, 49 Cadets, 307 General Service Army & Navy recruits and 50 other personnel including apprentices, instrumentalists and doctors were inducted into the Defence Forces. Further recruitment campaigns are planned for 2016.
With the support of the Chief of Staff, I am confident that we will retain the capacity of the Defence Forces to operate effectively across all roles and to undertake the tasks laid down by Government both at home and overseas.
60. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence when the last meeting of the Government task force on emergency planning took place; the date of its next meeting; if he is continuing to chair these meetings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2751/16]
View answerI continue to chair the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning. It comprises of those Ministers and senior officials that have a lead or support role in Government emergency planning. The Government Task Force co-ordinates and oversees the emergency management policy and activities of all Government Departments and public agencies. It is supported by the Office of Emergency Planning, Department of Defence.
The Government Task Force continues to meet on a regular basis, meeting on 5 occasions in 2015. I chaired the last meeting, which was held on 12 November 2015. At the last meeting, in addition to the normal agenda and attendance, other ministerial colleagues also attended to receive briefings on winter preparations by the relevant Departments/Agencies. The meeting was followed by a joint launch of the annual "Be Winter Ready2 Information Campaign. This provides practical advice on how best to prepare for the winter; ensures the public are aware of where advice and help can be found and aims to reassure the public that preparations are being made and arrangements have been put in place to ensure that there will be a co-ordinated response to severe weather events.
While details of matters discussed at meetings are confidential, I can confirm that the Government Task Force continues to examine current risks and supports the co-ordination arrangements for emergency planning across a "Whole of Government" approach. Meetings provide briefings on matters such as current security threats, cyber security and horizon scanning across the lead Departments, as well as regular briefings on topical matters.
The Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government is the lead Department for flooding response in accordance with defined roles and responsibilities contained within Strategic Emergency Planning Guidelines. During the recent severe weather and flooding the Department chaired the National Emergency Co-ordination Group (NECG), which managed the national level response and provided media briefings. A wide range of senior officials and experts met almost daily, with 30 meetings held between 3 December 2015 and 13 January 2016. I was kept regularly briefed during this period.
The work of the NECG nationally and, particularly, the work of the Local Authorities, Civil Defence, the Defence Forces, and many other public, community and voluntary organisations locally, in managing and responding to such events is to be commended. While flood levels have not fully subsided, there is ongoing monitoring and assessment of the situation and Government and the relevant Departments/Agencies continue to be briefed and updated, as required.
A further meeting of the Government Task Force would, in the normal course of events have been held in December 2015. However, in view of the ongoing meetings taking place of the NECG, this was postponed and will now take place in February.
61. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Defence further to Parliamentary Question Number 287 of 24 November 2015, if he has received the findings and recommendations of the review of the fire on board the LÉ Clíona on 29 May 1962; if he has considered those findings; and the steps he will take on foot of them. [2794/16]
View answerThe provisions for the award of military medals are incorporated in Defence Force Regulations A9 (New Series) - 'Dress and Medals'. The Regulations provide that a recommendation for the award of the Distinguished Service Medal must be made and forwarded to the Chief of Staff not later than four years after the performance of the act in respect of which the recommendation is made.
I have been advised by the military authorities that there is no record of such a recommendation having been made, at the time of the event or at any time since, for the actions taken by the two individuals that have been the subject of a number of representations that I have recently received on the matter.
The report into the incident acknowledges the performance of these two men, along with the rest of the ship’s company, in extinguishing the fire on the LÉ Clíona in May 1962. It makes no recommendation in relation to the award of any medal or citation.
In light of the representations that I received in relation to retrospective awards for the two individuals, I requested that the Chief of Staff have the circumstances surrounding the incident on board the LÉ Clíona on 29 May 1962 reviewed.
The review has yet to be finalised. I will consider the findings and recommendations of that review once it has been submitted by the Chief of Staff. I am advised that the Report is nearing completion and I anticipate I will be in receipt of same in the coming weeks.
62. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence the status of additional initiatives the Defence Forces are taking following the Paris terror attacks in France and other incidents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2750/16]
View answerPrimary responsibility for the internal security of the State rests with the Department of Justice and Equality and An Garda Síochána. Among the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence is the provision of Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) which, in practice, means to provide assistance and support to An Garda Síochána when requested to do so.
There is ongoing and close liaison between An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces regarding security matters, including ATCP deployments and a wide variety of military training activities are specifically designed to counter or respond to possible security emergencies. Regular co-ordination and liaison meetings also take place between the Defence Forces and An Garda Síochána in relation to ATCP issues.
The full spectrum of Defence Forces personnel and equipment are available for deployment in response to any security and other emergencies that may arise. Within the Defence Forces, both the Ordnance Corps and the Army Ranger Wing specialise in providing an immediate response to emergency incidents that might require their highly specialised capabilities.
The Ordnance Corps consists of a number of Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams which are on standby 24/7 to respond when a request for assistance is received from An Garda Síochána to deal with suspect devices.
The Army Ranger Wing is an integral unit of the Defence Forces whose roles include provision of specialist ATCP support to An Garda Síochána. The need for a high level of preparedness to deal with any requests for special forces operations is inherent in the unit’s mission. Members are trained to the highest levels of motivation, physical fitness and skill at arms for their specialist role. The ARW is on standby to be called upon to undertake duties in any part of the country.
I can confirm that the Defence Forces keep their operational plans and response capabilities for dealing with a wide range of threats under constant review and I can confirm that a further review of operational plans has been instigated by the Defence Forces in light of the dreadful terrorist attacks that recently occurred in Paris.
It is my priority as Minister for Defence to ensure that the operational capacity of the Defence Forces is maintained to the greatest extent possible. On an ongoing basis I receive advice in this regard from the Chief of Staff and he has confirmed to me that he is satisfied that the Defence Forces are equipped and resourced to respond as appropriate to any such events were they to occur in this State.
63. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Defence the details of his recent discussions with his European Union counterparts in relation to the possibility of increased numbers of Irish troops being sent to Mali. [2797/16]
View answerThe Department of Defence constantly reviews the deployment of Defence Forces personnel overseas. With regard to any future deployments of Defence Forces personnel overseas, Ireland receives requests, from time to time, in relation to participation in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis.
As the Deputy is aware, I recently attended the meeting of Foreign Affairs and Defence Ministers, which took place in Brussels on 17th November 2015 at which my French colleague, Defence Minister Jean-Yves Le Drein, invoked Article 42.7 of the Treaty on European Union, following the tragic events in Paris on 13 November.
Following that invocation there has been ongoing liaison between officials from my Department and French authorities at which various options for how Ireland could be of assistance are being explored. One option being explored is examining what support Ireland may be able to offer to missions which suffer gaps as a result of France or other nations withdrawing forces to undertake alternative operations. This includes the possibility for the potential enhancement of our current deployment to the EU Training Mission in Mali to which 10 members of the Permanent Defence Force are deployed.
The purpose of any deployment of additional Defence Forces personnel would be to ensure the continued effectiveness of UN mandated missions. To inform my consideration of this issue, the military authorities recently visited both the UN mission (MINUSMA) and EUTM Mali. I plan to bring forward proposals to Government for approval to allow for the deployment of some additional trainers and mission support staff in the EU Training mission in Mali. The issue of providing support to the UN peacekeeping mission MINUSMA will be kept under review.
64. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the degree to which the Defence Forces will play a role in the 1916 commemorations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2805/16]
View answerWhilst responsibility for the Decade of Centenaries Programme rests with my colleague the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, both my Department and the Defence Forces are nevertheless playing a significant role in many of the events planned for 2016.
My Department is currently working very closely with the Ireland 2016 Project Office in the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, and with officials in the Department of the Taoiseach. Planning is now at an advanced stage to ensure appropriate levels of involvement by the Defence Forces in many of the events that are scheduled for the year ahead as part of the State Centenary Programme.
The role of the Defence Forces will be extensive and central to the State Ceremonial events. This commenced on 1st August 2015 when the centenary of the funeral of O’Donovan Rossa was marked with a State ceremony at Glasnevin Cemetary. On 1st January 2016 the Defence Forces played an important ceremonial role in a Flag Raising event held in Dublin Castle.
The Commemoration at the GPO on Easter Sunday 2016 will be followed by a parade which will entail a full military display including peace keeping elements. There will be approximately 2,500 Defence Forces personnel marching in the parade including three bands and horses and a range of Defence Forces vehicles. The centre piece of the parade will have a peacekeeping theme.
A wide range of other State events are being organised to mark the centenary and many will involve participation by the Defence Forces. For example, on Easter Monday, synchronised wreath-laying ceremonies will be held at iconic sites in Dublin and at key locations countrywide and all will incorporate a formal military ceremonial element. They will participate in State ceremonies to mark the 1916 rising anniversary date on 24th April 2016 in Arbour Hill and at events on the anniversary dates in May of the execution of 15 of the leaders of the 1916 Rising that are being held at both Kilmainham Gaol and Cork.
There are a number of other events with significant Defence Forces involvement, such as a comprehensive programme of events relating to the National Flag including flag raising ceremonies in Dublin and elsewhere, and the presentation by members of the Defence Forces of the National Flag to all of the Primary schools in the State. This element of the Programme has already commenced and will continue up until March this year.
Overall, it is clear that my Department and the Defence Forces will play a very central and important role in many of the historic Commemoration events that will take place during 2016.
65. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware of concerns in a number of quarters regarding Ireland's involvement in the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force mission in the Golan Heights, and in particular in relation to the question of whether this mission is a success in terms of its aim of bringing peace to the area; if he has carried out any up-to-date analysis of the merits and impact of Ireland's role in this mission; the details of any such analysis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2791/16]
View answerA contingent of the Permanent Defence Force has been deployed to the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) on the Golan Heights since 2013. The current Irish contingent, the 50th Infantry Group, comprising 131 personnel, is based in UNDOF Headquarters in Camp Ziouani. It operates in the role of a Quick Reaction Force, which is on standby to assist with ongoing operations within the UNDOF Area of Responsibility. Eight (8) other Defence Forces personnel are also deployed in UNDOF Headquarters, including the Deputy Force Commander, Brigadier General Anthony Hanlon.
Since its temporary relocation from a number of positions in September 2014 and pending the time when UNDOF returns fully to the area of separation, UNDOF has, in line with its mandate from UNSCR 350 continued to maintain credible presence in the Golan and use its best efforts to implement its mandate.
In this context, UNDOF continues to engage with the parties on practical arrangements to allow the Force to continue to maintain the ceasefire, monitor, verify and report on violations of the Disengagement of Forces Agreement and exercise its critical liaison functions with the parties in order to implement its mandate.
The Department of Defence constantly reviews the deployment of Defence Forces personnel overseas and these missions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The presence of the UNDOF mission remains an important element in ensuring stability on the Golan Heights and in the Middle East region.
66. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Defence the status of the funding available from his Department for compensation works in relation to flooding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1831/16]
View answerThe Government approved the allocation of €5m to be distributed as emergency humanitarian support to small businesses and community, sporting and voluntary bodies which through no fault of their own have been unable to secure flood insurance and have been flooded recently.
The scheme, which is being administered by the Irish Red Cross Society, provides a once-off ex gratia contribution towards the costs of repair of damage incurred by organisations which were unable to secure flood insurance and were flooded as a result of the severe weather during December 2015 and early January 2016.
The scheme is aimed at providing a contribution to the costs of returning premises to their pre-flood condition including the replacement of flooring, fixtures and fittings and damaged stock. It only applies to premises that have been flooded and it is intended as an emergency humanitarian assistance contribution rather than compensation for loss of earnings, loss of business goodwill or as replacement for the cover provided by insurance.
The emergency nature of the response to the difficulties of organisations affected by the flooding required a speedy process in order to meet their needs. In this regard a two step approach was taken, involving an initial application which, if successful would lead to a quick payment, capped at €5,000 per property. Applications under the €5,000 threshold are being paid following a quick verification process between the Irish Red Cross and the local authority responsible for the area in which the business was flooded.
The second stage of the scheme provides a means to seek further support of up to €20,000 per property. This involves a more lengthy process requiring a detailed assessment by loss adjusters appointed for this purpose by the Irish Red Cross.
The Red Cross is continuing to process applications and is making payments on a daily basis. The Irish Red Cross advises that more than 150 payments have been made to date. The closing date for receipt of application forms is 31 January 2016.
67. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence if he has received and read the report he commissioned to investigate the allegations that Air Corps inspectors tasked with certifying repairs and modifications on aircraft were not qualified to sign-off on the said works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2787/16]
View answerI received a disclosure under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, and follow-up correspondence, from an individual alleging that a number of Air Corps Aircraft Inspectors have authorisation to certify sheet metal repairs and modifications on aircraft types currently in service in the Air Corps without the required qualifications or experience to do so.
I directed that an independent review be carried out by external competent experts into all of the issues raised in the protected disclosure. The Independent Review Team consisted of a retired Secretary General of a Government Department and two officials from the Irish Aviation Authority. The Review Team was tasked with undertaking a full review of the allegations by assessing the technical position and carrying out a thorough review of all relevant documentation, records, submissions, processes and procedures in use by the Air Corps.
The Independent Review Team has now completed its work and has forwarded its report to my Department, including its findings and recommendations. There are no airworthiness issues arising from the allegations. I will give careful consideration to the report in the next few days.
68. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence to report on his recent visit to the Golan Heights to meet Irish troops serving on the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force mission and to south Lebanon to visit Irish troops serving on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon mission; and if he had any other engagements during this visit. [2789/16]
View answerDuring the period 20 to 22 December 2015, I accompanied the Taoiseach on a visit to Lebanon and Israel. The visit afforded us an opportunity to see, at first hand, the tremendous work done overseas by the Irish Defence Forces. On the 21st and 22nd December respectively, we met with Defence Forces personnel serving as part of a joint Finnish/Irish battalion with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in south Lebanon and personnel serving with the 50th Infantry Group with the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) based in Camp Ziouani on the Israeli side of the area of separation. I conveyed to the personnel of both contingents our deep appreciation for the outstanding manner in which they continue to perform their duties on overseas service.
The itinerary for the visit to Lebanon also included a meeting with the UNIFIL Force Commander, Major General Luciano Portolano of Italy and the Lebanese Prime Minister, Mr. Tammam Salam.
In the course of the visit, I took the opportunity to raise the issue of the murders of Private Thomas Barrett and Private Derek Smallhorne and the serious wounding of Private John O’Mahony while serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) on 18 April 1980, and the ongoing trial of the alleged perpetrator Mr Mahmoud Bazzi. I highlighted the Irish Government's continued strong commitment and interest in progressing this case.
During the visit to the UNDOF area of operations, we met with the UNDOF Force Commander, Major General Thapa from Nepal and with the Deputy Force Commander, Brigadier General Anthony Hanlon from Ireland.
During the visit to both missions, we received briefings on the current situation in the region and the important work the Defence Forces are undertaking in the Middle East in the cause of international peace.
69. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if he is satisfied regarding the availability of specialised equipment to enable the Defence Forces deal with emergencies such as recent flooding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2806/16]
View answerMy priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the operational capacity of the Defence Forces, including the availability of specialised equipment, is maintained to the greatest extent possible to enable the Defence Forces to carry out their roles both at home and overseas.
In accordance with the Framework for Major Emergency Management, primary responsibility for responding to emergencies caused by severe weather events, such as the recent storms and subsequent flooding, rests with the three designated principal response agencies, namely, the relevant Local Authority, An Garda Síochána, and the Health Service Executive.
At National level, representation on the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning, by both the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces, ensures the fullest co-ordination and co-operation in the event of an emergency and that the command structure within the Defence Forces is compatible with the requirements in this area.
The Defence Forces are also represented on the eight Regional Working Groups that have been established under the Framework and, on an ongoing basis, designated members of the Defence Forces, based around the country, act as Liaison Officers to Local Authorities.
The full spectrum of Defence Forces personnel and equipment, commensurate with operational requirements, is available for deployments in response to emergency situations. In this regard, the Defence Forces hold a wide range of engineering and transport plant and equipment for military purposes. All such plant and equipment suitable for use in emergency situations is made available as the need arises.
During the recent period of severe weather from 4 December 2015 the Defence Forces responded positively to all requests for support received from the three principal response agencies. Most requests were from the Local Authorities, given their central role in the flood response.
The Defence Forces have a wide range of high-axle 4x4, 6x6 and 8x8 vehicles capable of lifting personnel, stores and equipment into and out of areas affected by flooding or other weather conditions. The Defence Forces also have a small number of 4x4 Ambulance vehicles which also can be made available if required.
The Defence Forces Engineering Corps has a number of flat bottomed and inflatable boats and trained crews that can be deployed to assist in flooded areas. The Defence Forces have a large number of life jackets which can be made available to assist in the movement of persons from flooded areas by boat or vehicle if necessary. They also have a number of high pressure pumps and a number of mobile lighting units and generators which can be made available when required. Engineer plant such as dump trucks, and bulldozers etc. are also available in limited numbers, as are other light engineer stores such as sandbags. The Defence Forces also have the capacity to maintain water pumps and to aid in the construction of flood defences.
The most important asset that the Defence Forces can provide is personnel, equipped with personal protective equipment, to operate during extreme weather events and with the capacity to support and sustain those personnel if deployed. As was the case in the recent flooding, 3,096 numbers of Defence Forces personnel were made available countrywide for such support when required.
The Air Corps operate a small fleet of eight light and medium lift twin engine helicopters which can provide a capability for helicopter support services when required. Typical tasks might include the movement of essential personnel into inaccessible flooded areas, aerial reconnaissance of the extent of flooding, the movement of specialised equipment (such as pumps etc.) into confined or inaccessible locations and the movement of fodder for farm animals that are inaccessible by other means.
The Naval Service and the Naval Reserve is well versed in the operation of plant such as pumps and generators etc. and is able to provide same if required in emergency situations. They also have Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats and other watercraft providing a localised capacity to assist.
I should also mention that over 700 Civil Defence volunteers assisted the principal response agencies across the country during the recent severe weather events. Members of Civil Defence were involved in a wide range of activities including sand-bagging, pumping water, evacuating people from their homes, rescuing motorists from flood waters, getting patients to hospital, checking up on vulnerable people and transporting children to school. Civil Defence equipment deployed in these efforts included four wheel drive vehicles, boats, portable pumps, fire tenders, an all terrain vehicle, floating pontoons, command and control vehicles, vans and trucks.
I am satisfied that the Defence Forces have the necessary resources available to them, including specialised equipment, to fulfil all roles assigned to them by Government including the provision of assistance in emergency situations that may arise. The equipment priorities for the Army, Air Corps and the Naval Service will be considered in the context of the lifetime of the recently published White Paper. It recognises that there are several new and or enhanced platforms to be procured to ensure that the Defence Forces are fully equipped to meet the roles required by Government.
70. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence if he is monitoring the trial of the alleged perpetrator of the murder of Irish United Nations peacekeepers and the attempted murder of a person (details supplied); and if he is satisfied with the pace and quality of the legal process. [2790/16]
View answerThe matter to which the Deputy is referring is the case of the deaths of Private Thomas Barrett and Private Derek Smallhorne who were murdered, and Private John O’Mahony who was seriously injured while serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) on 18 April 1980. In July 2014 the alleged perpetrator, Mr. Mahmoud Bazzi, who had been residing in the United States was arrested for administrative immigration violations. Following an immigration court hearing in August 2014 the Judge ruled that Mr. Bazzi be deported to Lebanon as he admitted that he entered the United States in 1994 without proper documentation. He was deported from the United States to his native Lebanon on 30 January 2015. On arrival in Beirut, Mr. Bazzi was arrested and detained by the Lebanese authorities where he remains in custody.
On 26 June 2015, the trial of Mr. Mahmoud Bazzi commenced before the Military Tribunal, in Beirut, Lebanon. Following deliberations the President of the Military Tribunal, adjourned the Session to 25 November 2015.
When the Military Tribunal resumed in November 2015 it heard evidence from Ex-Private John O’Mahony who was seriously injured during the incident in which his colleagues lost their lives. Mr. O’Mahony was cross-examined by defence counsel. The case was then adjourned for a second time and with the next hearing scheduled to take place on 20th April 2016. The Department of Defence has engaged the services of a senior legal adviser in Lebanon to support the Department and the Irish Government in advancing this case. He has advised that the trial proceedings are a matter for the President of the Tribunal similar to the role and prerogative of the Judge in Irish Courts. He has indicated that there may be a number of reasons the adjournments have taken place including the need to bring further witnesses before the Tribunal.
During my recent visit with the Taoiseach to the Lebanon last December, I met with the Lebanese authorities at the most senior levels of Government and highlighted the Irish Government’s continued commitment and interest in progressing this case.
71. Deputy Helen McEntee asked the Minister for Defence further to section 9 of his White Paper on Defence, his ambitions for strengthening the technological capacity of civic defence organisations which provide such important civic and community services in County Meath and throughout Ireland. [2650/16]
View answerThe White Paper on Defence, which was published in August 2015, sets out the policy framework for the Defence Organisation for the next ten years and beyond. The White Paper affirms the Government’s commitment to the continued development of Civil Defence.
The future of Civil Defence will be developed around its central strategic objective of supporting the Principal Response Agencies, (that is, an Garda Síochána, the HSE and the local authorities,) in a variety of emergency and non-emergency situations. This includes the large number of support roles set out in the Framework for Major Emergency Management (MEM) including assistance in dealing with a wide range of emergencies at national and local level.
Civil Defence will utilise new technologies that assist in delivering its core services. For example, Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) are now being used by Civil Defence in missing persons searches. Civil Defence has also acquired TETRA radios allowing for efficient communications with the PRAs during emergencies.
Civil Defence has a well developed radio communications system. This operates on a national, regional and local level. For example, Meath Civil Defence has a very fine command and control vehicle which it makes available in support of the PRAs. These communication capabilities will be further developed according to need.
The Department of Defence will continue to provide, within available resources, the supports necessary to fulfil the mission of Civil Defence, including fit-for-purpose equipment, uniforms and Personal Protective Equipment.
72. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Defence if he is satisfied that the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force mission in the Golan Heights is an effective use of the skills and experience of the Defence Forces; if he has had any discussions regarding discontinuing the Irish participation in this mission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2792/16]
View answerA contingent of the Permanent Defence Force has been deployed to the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) on the Golan Heights since 2013. The current Irish contingent, the 50th Infantry Group, comprising 131 personnel, is based in UNDOF Headquarters in Camp Ziouani. It operates in the role of a Quick Reaction Force, which is on standby to assist with ongoing operations within the UNDOF Area of Responsibility. Eight (8) other Defence Forces personnel are also deployed in UNDOF Headquarters, including the Deputy Force Commander, Brigadier General Anthony Hanlon.
Defence Forces skills and experience have been put to good effect through our participation in UNDOF. In particular, the provision of a Quick Reaction Force, Explosive Ordnance Demolition and Engineer Special Search capability have been vital to the mission from the perspective of safety, security and effectiveness, including in the reinforcement, evacuation and medical evacuation of injured personnel.
The Department of Defence constantly reviews the deployment of Defence Forces personnel overseas and these missions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. At the informal meeting of Defence Ministers in Luxembourg on 3rd September 2015, I had discussions regarding the Defence Forces participation in UN peacekeeping operations including the UNDOF mission, with the UN Under Secretary-General, Mr Hervé Ladsous. I confirmed Ireland’s commitment to UN operations but stressed the importance of Ireland being involved in active rather than passive peacekeeping. In relation to UNDOF, I pointed out that if Ireland was not required in UNDOF in the future, then consideration would be given to other options for deployments on behalf of the UN. At this point in time, however, the presence of the UNDOF mission remains an important element in ensuring stability on the Golan Heights and in the Middle East region.
73. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Taoiseach which Oireachtas Committee will be responsible for reviewing the Constitutional Convention report on economic, social and cultural rights; if the report will be reviewed before the next general election; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2731/16]
View answerA decision has not yet been taken as to which Committee will be asked to consider the Report referred to by the Deputy. It would be a matter for the Committee decided on to organise its own workload, though the Deputy will be aware of the last date for dissolution of the current Dáil.
74. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Taoiseach the number of jobs created on a seasonally adjusted basis since the Action Plan for Jobs was established in each nomenclature of territorial units for statistics 3 region and to date in 2016 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2812/16]
View answerThe exact information requested by the Deputy is not available. The Quarterly National Household Survey (QNHS) is the official source of estimates of employment in the State. The most recent figures available are for Q3 2015. While non-seasonally adjusted estimates of employment are produced by NUTS 3 Regions, seasonally adjusted figures are only available at State level.
Table 1 shows the seasonally adjusted number of persons aged 15 years and over in employment (ILO) in Q1 2012 and Q3 2015 along with the period change.
As the table shows the overall stock of persons employed at given points in time, the changes which are calculated using these stock figures depend both on the number of jobs lost and jobs created over the period in question. The QNHS does not record whether a job is newly created.
Table 1 Seasonally adjusted number of persons aged 15 years and over in employment (ILO) Q1 2012 and Q3 2015. '000
|
Q1 12 |
Q3 15 |
Change from Q1 12 to Q3 15 |
|
|
In employment |
1,837.6 |
1,973.4 |
135.8 |
Source: Quarterly National Household Survey (QNHS), Central Statistics Office, Ireland.
Data may be subject to future revision.
Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.
Reference period: Q1 = Jan-Mar and Q3 = Jul-Sep.
75. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Taoiseach the number of persons signing on the live register at locations (details supplied) in County Laois and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2514/16]
View answerThe Live Register series gives a monthly breakdown of the number of people claiming Jobseeker's Benefit, Jobseeker's Allowance and other registrants as registered with the Department of Social Protection.
The most recent Live Register figures available are for December 2015.
The following table shows the number of persons classified by sex on the Live Register in the County Laois local offices requested.
It should be noted that the Live Register is not a definitive measure of unemployment as it includes part-time workers, and seasonal and casual workers entitled to Jobseeker's Benefit or Allowance.
Persons on the Live Register in December 2015 in requested Local Offices in County Laois.
|
Local Office |
Male |
Female |
All Persons |
|
Portarlington |
1,499 |
993 |
2,492 |
|
Portlaoise |
2,040 |
1,355 |
3,395 |
|
Rathdowney |
579 |
380 |
959 |
|
County Laois |
4,118 |
2,728 |
6,846 |
Source: CSO Live Register
76. Deputy Jim Daly asked the Taoiseach in the lifetime of this Government, the number of proposals managerial staff in any agency or managerial body under his remit put forward to alter the roll-out of public services which were delayed, postponed or abandoned as a result of non-co-operation by trade union representatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3180/16]
View answerThere were no proposals put forward by managerial staff in my Department or the National Economic and Social Development Office to alter the roll-out of public services which were delayed, postponed or abandoned as a result of non-co-operation by trade union representatives.
77. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection what steps she will take to instigate a review of the habitual residence condition to ensure that it is not discriminatory, particularly in relation to children from migrant and Traveller backgrounds, and asylum-seeking children, as recommended by the report of the Irish Human Rights Equality Commission submitted to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child. [2840/16]
View answerThe habitual residence condition is provided for in Irish social welfare legislation and is in accordance with EU legislation and with European Court of Justice jurisprudence. Being habitually resident in the State is a requirement, amongst others, for receipt of certain social protection payments and applies to applicants for and recipients of such payments regardless of their nationality or ethnicity.
As required by the legislation underpinning the provision, decision-makers in the Department of Social Protection, when determining whether a person is habitually resident in the State for social protection purposes, take into consideration all of the person's circumstances.
Training is provided on an ongoing basis to decision-makers in relation to the application of the habitual residence condition to ensure quality and consistency of decision-making which, in turn, aims to uphold lawful application of the provision.
Comprehensive guidelines on the habitual residence condition have been drawn up by the Department of Social Protection. The guidelines, which are used by the Department’s decision-makers, are publicly accessible via the Department's website. They are regularly updated to take account of relevant changes at both national and EU level.
It is open to anyone who is dissatisfied with a decision on the application of the habitual residence condition in relation to entitlement to a social welfare payment to appeal that decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office.
As the operation of the habitual residence condition is kept under continual review to ensure that it continues to reflect Irish and EU law, I have no plans to instigate a review of the provision at this time.
78. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection the cost of raising rent supplement spending by 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2701/16]
View answerRent supplement plays a vital role in housing families and individuals, with the scheme supporting approximately 61,000 people for which the Government has provided approximately €267 million for 2016.
Recent analysis shows that increasing the current rent limits by 5% would result in a full year cost in excess of €15 million; a 10% increase would carry a cost of almost €32 million; a 15% increase costing approximately €51 million, with a 20% increase costing approximately €69 million. Though the costing model accurately reflects the increased full year cost for the scheme, the likelihood is that there will be little additional supply achieved for persons seeking rent supplement support due to the constrained market. There is also the additional risk in a market with such tight supply that rent supplement limits would generate homelessness for low income/single earner families who could no longer compete with the higher rents on offer for rent supplement recipients.
In view of these difficulties, the Department has implemented a policy approach that allows for flexibility where landlords seek rents in excess of the limits for both existing customers and new applicants to the rent supplement scheme. The circumstances of tenants are considered on a case-by-case basis and rents are being increased above prescribed limits, as appropriate. In addition, the Department, in conjunction with Threshold, operates a special protocol in the Dublin and Cork areas where supply issues are particularly acute, with plans under way to extend this to Galway city.
This flexible approach has assisted over 6,100 households nationwide to retain their rented accommodation through increased rent payments. Persons in receipt of rent supplement who may be at risk of losing their tenancy as a result of increases in rent are urged to contact their local Community Welfare Service or the Threshold Tenancy Sustainment Service without delay.
79. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if she will address a matter (details supplied) regarding the carer's allowance scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2706/16]
View answerIn general, a person cannot qualify for more than one social welfare payment simultaneously. The main exception is carer’s allowance (CA), which is paid at half-rate when a person who has an underlying entitlement to CA is also in receipt of another social welfare payment or where an increase is being claimed in respect of that person on their spouse, civil partner or cohabitant’s social welfare payment (IQA).
In this specific case, the spouse of the person concerned is being paid an IQA of €209.00 per week in respect of the person concerned on his State Pension Contributory (SPC). It is open to the person concerned to request to be paid a full-rate CA but that would not be financially advantageous to the couple because the IQA would have to cease. To receive full-rate CA in place of IQA on the spouse's SPC would result in a net loss to the couple of €88 per week. Consequently, the Department advises that the person remain in receipt of half-rate CA along with the IQA on her spouse's pension.
