Written Answers Nos. 156-170
156. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Social Protection to provide in tabular form, broken down per annum, the use of external public relations firms by his Department since he came into office; the external public relations firms used; to outline the internal departmental policy on employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20397/16]
View answerIt is the policy of the Department of Social Protection that its Press Office deals with all media queries and public relations matters. My Department’s policy is to use in-house resources as much as possible and to restrict the use of external public relations firms to a minimum. Since my appointment as Minister for Social Protection on 6 May this year, my Department has not employed any external public relations firms.
157. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he is aware that on 15 June 2016, at the European Parliament's Subcommittee on Human Rights, representatives of the office of the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Commissioner Federica Mogherini, confirmed that due to the worsening human rights situation in Egypt, Ms Mogherini is now making public statements on individual cases; and if he has asked the Commissioner to make a public statement on the case of a person (details supplied), given that he is the only citizen of an EU member state who is in an Egyptian prison, especially now that the person's trial has been postponed for the fourteenth time. [20175/16]
View answerAll actions taken in this case are considered in the context of the Government’s clear strategy, which is focused on two core objectives. First, to see this citizen released by the Egyptian authorities so that he can return to his family and his studies in Ireland as soon as possible, and, second, to provide every possible consular support for his welfare while he remains in detention.
Regarding the specific reference to the intervention of an EEAS representative in the European Parliament Subcommittee on Human Rights on 15 June, I am aware through my officials that the EEAS representative highlighted the statements made in recent months by the HRVP spokesperson on the human rights situation in Egypt. Individual cases, including that of this citizen, have been regularly raised with the Egyptian authorities at all levels.
All of the sustained and focused actions that have been taken by the Government, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and our Embassy in Cairo throughout this case have been aimed at furthering our clear and well-established objectives, and importantly, avoiding any action that could be counterproductive or detrimental to this citizen’s interests.
There has been sustained engagement at a variety of levels between the Irish Government and our partners in the European Union on this citizen’s case.
Our focus has been on securing and maintaining the support of EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, Federica Mogherini and that channel continues to be very helpful.
I have engaged extensively with the EU High Representative who – at my request - has personally raised this citizen’s case with the Egyptian Government. I corresponded with her most recently on 6 June and will be in contact with her again in the coming days.
158. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has met with the family and legal team of a person (details supplied); if he has met with the Egyptian ambassador to Ireland; and if he will now request a presidential decree under law 140 from the President of Egypt, Mr. Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, to ensure the person is released from prison and returned here immediately, given that the person's trial has been postponed. [20176/16]
View answerI can assure the Deputy that securing this citizen’s return home to Ireland has been and continues to be a top priority for the Government.
The Irish Government is pursuing every avenue to secure the release of this citizen and will continue to bring all of our influence to bear on his behalf through all appropriate channels. Significant resources continue to be deployed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, both in Cairo and in Dublin, in the provision of comprehensive consular assistance to both this citizen and his family.
I and my Government colleagues are extremely disappointed at the news of a further delay in the trial of this citizen. This latest delay is a particular source of concern and frustration for the citizen and his family and we fully share their sense of frustration. I met with this citizen’s father and sister on Tuesday 28 June, in advance of the hearing, to reaffirm our continued commitment to securing his release.
A further meeting between the family and my officials took place on Friday, 1 July, where the latest developments were reviewed and options for future action, including a new application under Presidential Decree 140, were considered. The Irish Government intends to lend its full support to a further request for release under the Presidential decree/Law 140, and will continue to work in support of these efforts. I further met with members of the Halawa family today (7 July 2016) before and after a parliamentary debate on this consular case.
My own concerns and that of the Government about this delay have been conveyed directly to the Egyptian Government. I met with the Ambassador of Egypt last Thursday and asked that she convey to her authorities in Cairo my disappointment and frustration at this further postponement of the trial. The Taoiseach spoke by phone with President el-Sisi on Monday last, 4 July, to convey the Government’s concerns directly to the President and to renew our call for this citizen to be released. He again met members of the Halawa family today (7 July 2016).
All actions taken in this case are considered in light of the Government’s clear objectives: first, to see this citizen released by the Egyptian authorities so that he can return to his family and his studies in Ireland and, second, to provide consular support for his welfare while he remains in detention. The considered approach and sustained action that has been taken by the Taoiseach, Ministers and by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to date in this case has been to further these objectives, and most importantly to avoid any action that could be counterproductive or detrimental to his best interests.
In addition to engagement with the Egyptian authorities, the Government also frequently engages with other states who have had citizens in similar situations, with our European and international partners represented in Egypt, and with the European Union. I have engaged extensively with High Representative Ms Federica Mogherini, who has raised this case with Foreign Minister Shoukry. The Taoiseach has also discussed this citizen’s detention at the highest level with President el-Sisi on three occasions, and those lines of communication remain open. The Egyptian Government is in no doubt about the Irish Government’s position and our desire to see our citizen released as soon as possible.
Ultimately, any decision to release this citizen will be made solely by the Egyptian authorities. Irrespective of any views regarding the fairness or appropriateness of any detention abroad, the reality is that where an Irish citizen is charged with an offence under the law of a foreign country, it is the foreign law that applies and it is the relevant foreign court which decides matters such as bail and release.
Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, both in Dublin and in Cairo, remain in ongoing contact with the citizen’s family. They will continue to engage appropriately with the Egyptian authorities, will remain resolute in seeking to protect the interests of this Irish citizen, and will do all possible to achieve a positive outcome. They also liaise closely with his Egyptian legal team and have attended all trial hearings to date. The Department also undertakes regular consular visits to him in prison, and the most recent visit took place on Sunday last, 3 July.
159. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his position on the European Union-Swiss bilateral negotiations; if he supports the Commission's suspension of research grants to Swiss universities and the suspension of the Erasmus student exchange programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20212/16]
View answerIn a referendum held on 9 February 2014, Swiss citizens voted by a very narrow margin to accept a proposal to introduce quotas and restrictions on migrants, the vast majority of whom are EU nationals. The referendum outcome has potentially far-reaching implications for EU-Switzerland relations, not least because any new Swiss legislation introducing quotas on immigration by EU citizens would be incompatible with the existing EU-Switzerland Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons which has been in place since 2002.
Last month, the Swiss Parliament made ratification of Protocol III (extending the EU-Swiss Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons to Croatia) contingent on securing a satisfactory outcome to the discussions with the EU in relation to Switzerland’s 2014 initiative on “mass immigration”.
The opening of the Swiss labour market to Croatia was part of a deal permitting Switzerland to take part in the European research and development programme Horizon 2020 and the Erasmus exchange programme. The EU has always made clear that there is a close link between Swiss participation in Erasmus and the Protocol, as the programme is closely linked to the free movement of persons (exchange of researchers and students). Given the circumstances arising from the February 2014 vote, the EU and the Swiss authorities agreed to suspend on-going negotiations on Swiss participation in Erasmus. Until the current difficulties are resolved, Switzerland will not participate in Erasmus on an equal footing with Member States as initially envisaged, but will rather enjoy the same status as other third countries (as a "Partner Country").
For its part the EU refuses to entertain any negotiation on the principle of the Free Movement of Persons, a position Ireland fully supports.
160. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of the South China Sea islands and the process of member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations for handling ownership disputes there; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20254/16]
View answer161. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of the declaration on the conduct of parties in the South China Sea; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20255/16]
View answer162. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he is aware of issues regarding freedom of navigation in the South China Sea; if this dispute is ongoing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20256/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 160 to 162, inclusive, together.
I am aware of ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, including those relating to freedom of navigation. The situation in the South China Sea, through which a significant amount of world trade passes each year, is of interest to Ireland, as a small open economy. We therefore closely monitor the ongoing developments in the region. Ireland, together with our EU partners, is committed to maintaining a legal order for the seas and oceans based upon the principles of international law, as reflected notably in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. This includes the maintenance of freedom of navigation.
Ireland, together with our EU partners, does not take a position on the individual claims in the South China Sea. However, we are concerned at the potential for a dangerous escalation of tensions in the area in question. It is our strong wish to see these disputes resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law, and we urge the parties involved to refrain from actions that could lead to increased tensions in the region.
ASEAN and China adopted the Declaration on the Conducts of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) in November 2002. After a series of discussions, ASEAN and China adopted the Guidelines to implement the DOC in July 2011. They have committed to a range of principles, which include: building, maintaining and enhancing mutual trust and confidence; exercising self-restraint in the conduct of activities; and the peaceful resolution of disputes. Furthermore, the Parties to the DOC agreed to working towards the eventual realisation of a Code of Conduct on the South China Sea (COC), on the basis of consensus. Ireland, together with our EU partners, supports the full implementation of the DOC, and looks forward to a swift conclusion of the talks on a COC, which will further support a rules-based regional and international order.
163. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has met the First Minister, Ms Arlene Foster, and the Deputy First Minister, Mr. Martin Mc Guinness, since the result of the referendum on a British exit from the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20257/16]
View answer164. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has met British Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Ms Theresa Villiers, since the result of the referendum on a British exit from the European Union; if they have discussed matters that concern the island of Ireland, such as implications for trade and Border controls; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20258/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 163 and 164 together.
I have been actively engaged with both the Northern Ireland Executive and the British Government since the results of the recent UK-EU referendum became known. On the Friday when the result was announced I spoke with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the First and deputy First Ministers and the leaders of the Northern Irish political parties.
Last Wednesday, the Secretary of State and I convened the Quarterly Review Meeting of the Fresh Start and Stormont House Agreements, which was attended by the First and deputy First Ministers and the Northern Ireland Justice Minister and at which the referendum result was discussed. In addition to the Review Meeting, I held a separate bilateral meeting with Secretary of State Villiers during which we discussed the issue, as I did in meetings with the SDLP leader and the leader of the Alliance Party.
The referendum outcome was also on the agenda at Monday’s NSMC Plenary hosted by the Taoiseach at Dublin Castle. My Cabinet colleagues and I participated together with the Ministers of the Northern Ireland Executive led by the First and deputy First Ministers.
During the NSMC Plenary, there was a detailed discussion on the potential impact of the UK referendum result to leave the EU. At the meeting, the NSMC agreed on ten specific areas where there would be joint planning and engagement. Furthermore, the economy and trade; Northern Ireland and British Irish relations; the Common Travel Area; and the EU were highlighted as the four priority areas where implications arise as result of the referendum vote.
The NSMC Plenary followed on from last week’s Quarterly Review Meeting of the Fresh Start and Stormont House Agreements and my separate bilateral meeting with Secretary of State Villiers. Naturally the outcome of the UK referendum on the EU was a key element of these meetings and I took the opportunity to assure all those present of the priority the Government attaches to the best interests of the people of Northern Ireland in the aftermath of the referendum.
I emphasised the necessity and importance of working together in the best interests of the people on this island. I reiterated the Government’s commitment to work in support of stability, reconciliation and prosperity in Northern Ireland. In this regard the Government will use its influence with our EU partners to seek to persuade them of the need for specific arrangements which protect the key gains of the peace process on this island – a process to which the EU has already made a key contribution. In addition I outlined that the Common Travel Area and cross-border EU funding, are key priorities for the Government in the period ahead.
I am very conscious of the deep concerns and anxiety that have arisen for many people across the community in Northern Ireland about the referendum outcome. The fact that the majority within Northern Ireland who voted to remain now face their preference being set aside as a result of the overall result across the UK raises profound issues.
In this regard, in my bilateral meeting with Secretary of State Villiers we agreed that the Good Friday Agreement remains the foundation for the two Governments’ approach to Northern Ireland. The EU referendum result does not in any way diminish the centrality of the Good Friday Agreement or the requirement of both the British and Irish Governments to uphold it. As a co-guarantor of the Good Friday and succeeding Agreements, the Irish Government is determined that its institutions, values and principles – including the right to be British or Irish or both - will be fully protected.
Furthermore, I noted that any future arrangements will not exclusively be determined by the wishes of the Irish Government, the British Government and the Northern Ireland Executive. They will also be influenced by the wider negotiations between the UK and the EU of 27 remaining Member States. One of the challenges, therefore, will be for Ireland to use its influence with our EU partners to persuade them of the need for specific arrangements which protect the key gains of the peace process on this island.
165. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has completed an assessment of the implications for the North-South bodies since the result of the referendum on a British exit from the European Union, particularly on those bodies that receive European Union funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20259/16]
View answerAt the Plenary meeting of the North South Ministerial Council (NSMC) which was held in Dublin Castle on Monday 4 July 2016, Government and Northern Ireland Executive Ministers had a detailed discussion on the potential impact of the UK Referendum vote to leave the EU. The Council agreed that the implications of the referendum decision on North South cooperation should be explored in detail for all sectors. In order to optimise joint planning and engagement on key issues arising following the UK referendum result, the NSMC agreed to work together to ensure that Northern Ireland’s interests are protected and advanced and the benefits of North/South co-operation are fully recognised in any new arrangements which emerge as regards the United Kingdom’s future relationship with the European Union.
The Council agreed that a full audit will be undertaken in all NSMC sectors, which include the six North South Bodies and Tourism Ireland Ltd., to identify the possible impacts, risks, opportunities and contingencies arising in the phases preceding and following the UK’s withdrawal from the EU. It was also agreed that Ministers North and South at their forthcoming NSMC Sectoral meetings will consider the strategic and cross-cutting issues arising and that final priorities will be agreed by the next NSMC Plenary in November for both pre-negotiation and negotiation phases.
All of the North South Bodies are testament to the benefit of working together for mutual benefit, and in the light of the Referendum result it will be important that the Northern Ireland Executive and the Government continue to fully support the work of the Bodies.
The North South Bodies are playing a continuing and central role in our economic recovery, with Tourism Ireland driving record tourism numbers to this island and InterTradeIreland building vital exporting capacity among our small and medium enterprises, the mainstay of the all-island economy. Another North South Body, the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), is the Managing Authority for various EU Programmes.
At the NSMC Plenary meeting the Council re-iterated the joint commitment of the Irish Government and the Northern Ireland Executive to the successful implementation of the EU’s PEACE and INTERREG programmes, and agreed that the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform and the Northern Ireland Finance Minister will consider the issue of securing the ERDF funding for PEACE and INTERREG, including through engagement with the European Commission.
166. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of staff dedicated to managing Ireland's response to the decision of the United Kingdom to exit the European Union; the structure of this team; how it will work with teams in other Departments; who has overall responsibility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20303/16]
View answerFrom the moment the British Prime Minister David Cameron first proposed a referendum on the UK’s membership of the EU in 2013, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has worked closely with the Department of the Taoiseach on this important strategic issue for Ireland. Work is underway to ensure that capabilities and resources are put in place to manage the complex process of a UK exit from the EU.
I am happy to set out the resources which are in place in my Department as of today. Within my Department, lead responsibility for the UK-EU relationship lies with Ireland, UK and Americas (IUKA) Division, within which there is a dedicated British-Irish Relations Unit currently staffed by five officers. This Unit works very closely with colleagues in the wider IUKA Division, especially those colleagues focused on Northern Ireland. Supporting and sustaining peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland is a key priority for my Department and protecting the interests of Northern Ireland will be a crucial element of our approach to any negotiations regarding the UK’s departure from the EU.
The Department also has a Policy Planning Unit which was established in 2014 and has provided policy analysis to the IUKA Division. In addition, there is also an intra-Departmental contact group on the UK-EU relationship, comprising senior officials across all of our relevant units.
In terms of Irish offices abroad focused on the UK-EU relationship, I would list in particular the Embassy of Ireland in London, the Consulate General of Ireland in Edinburgh, our offices in Belfast and Armagh, and the Permanent Representation of Ireland to the European Union in Brussels. Missions across the EU and further afield are all working on this issue, especially as the expected UK exit process approaches.
I would also add that seven diplomatic officers of the Department are seconded to the European Union Division in the Department of the Taoiseach, while two diplomatic officers are seconded to the International and EU Relations Division of the Department of Finance.
167. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to provide in tabular form and per annum all external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since March, 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report and the publication date. [20347/16]
View answerThis Department is responsible for two votes - Vote 28 (Foreign Affairs and Trade) and Vote 27 (International Cooperation).
My Department commissions external expertise where highly specialised skills are not available within the Department and in particular where ongoing independent evaluation of programmes and projects is required. During the course of their engagements, these consultants/experts may prepare reports and other documentation for the Department.
In-depth analysis of issues by external experts has informed - and continues to inform - my Department’s policies, allowing for a more targeted use of resources and greater accountability in the allocation of budgets.
These services are procured by open competitive tendering processes in accordance with EU and national rules and comply with the overall value for money objective of the Department.
Separately, a low number of consultancies are occasionally engaged directly by our Missions abroad from time to time.
The following tables set out the request details of external reports commissioned by the Department since March 2011.
|
Commission |
Experts/Consultants |
Report/Subject |
Cost (€) |
Date of Publication |
|
2011 |
Kevin Moore |
Support to the Governments of Zambia and South Africa to develop Special Economic Zones for the promotion of inward investment and employment |
17,861 |
Not Applicable – see footnote* |
|
2011 |
Paul Sheane |
Support to the Governments of Zambia and South Africa to develop Special Economic Zones for the promotion of inward investment and employment |
9,965 |
* |
|
2011 |
Stefanie Meredith |
Review of Irish Aid Support for Product Development Partnerships in developing countries |
10,100 |
* |
|
2011 |
Samia Saad |
Review of Irish Aid Support for Product Development Partnerships in developing countries |
9,198 |
* |
|
2011 |
Paud Murphy |
Development Education Reviews - to examine the current funding support and engagement in each of the priority areas identified in the Development Education strategy (primary, post primary, third level, adult, community and youth work) |
9,064 |
Not Applicable – see footnote* |
|
2011 |
80:20 |
Development Education Reviews - to examine the current funding support and engagement in each of the priority areas identified in the Development Education strategy (primary, post primary, third level, adult, community and youth work) |
9,870 |
* |
|
2011 |
Eilis Murray |
Development Education Reviews - to examine the current funding support and engagement in each of the priority areas identified in the Development Education strategy (primary, post primary, third level, adult, community and youth work) |
6,068 |
* |
|
2011 |
ISOS |
Development Education Reviews - to examine the current funding support and engagement in each of the priority areas identified in the Development Education strategy (primary, post primary, third level, adult, community and youth work) |
42,247 |
* |
|
2011 |
Bernard McLoughlin |
Review of the Irish Aid Centre, Dublin |
6,143 |
* |
|
2011 |
Cathal Higgins |
Preparation of a report on the programme of education sector budget support towards school infrastructural development in Karamoja region and skills development in the oil sector (Uganda) |
5,000 |
|
|
2011 |
Mike Williams |
Review of Humanitarian Programme Plan for Irish Aid |
18,742 |
* |
|
2011 |
Humanitarian Policy Ltd |
Review of Security Policy & Practice among Irish Aid Humanitarian Partners |
33,930 |
* |
|
Commission |
Expert/Consultants |
Report/Subject |
Cost (€) |
Date of Publication Not Applicable – see footnote* |
|
2012 |
Mike Williams |
Evaluation of the Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation |
12,247 |
July 2013 |
|
2012 |
PA Consulting Group |
Evaluating the value of the economic relationship between the United Kingdom and Ireland |
73,083 |
July 2013 |
|
2012 |
Cathy Roche |
Review of the Our World Awards 2005-2011 |
6,300 |
* |
|
2012 |
Everywhere Consulting |
Feasibility Study on the Establishment of a Humanitarian Hub at Shannon Airport |
40,584 |
* |
|
2012 |
Fintan Farrelly |
Review of the Irish Aid Strategic Environmental Partnership Programme |
6,000 |
* |
|
2012 |
Mike Williams |
Review of Misean Cara |
15,099 |
* |
|
2012 |
Pham Quang Hoa |
Local consultancy contract 'Review of P135 infrastructure projects funded by Irish Aid' |
5,453 |
* |
|
2012 |
IOD Parc |
South Africa Country Strategy Programme 2008-2012 Final Report |
73,256 |
January 2013 |
|
2012 |
Itad |
Evaluation of the Irish Aid Ethiopia Country Strategy Programme 2008-2012 |
143,886 |
May 2013 |
|
Commission |
Expert/Consultants |
Report/Subject |
Cost (€) |
Date of Publication Not Applicable – see footnote* |
|
2013 |
Peter McEvoy |
Evaluation of a number of Organisations funded by the Emigrant Support Programme(ESP) |
13,075 |
July 2013 |
|
2013 |
Wright Consultancy Ltd |
Gender Equality Audit |
14,000 |
* |
|
2013 |
Mary Jennings |
Review of HRD (Human Rights and Democratisation) Scheme Irish Aid Palestine |
15,500 |
* |
|
2013 |
Bronagh Hinds & Karen McMinn Consultants |
Report on the implementation of Ireland's National Action Plan on UNSCR (United Nations Security Council Resolution) 1325 on Women, Peace and Security |
20,811 |
June 2013 |
|
2013 |
ASTEC Global Consultancy Ltd |
Review of Irish Aid Financial Policies and Procedures |
44,493 |
* |
|
2013 |
Gareth Williams |
Review of Financial and Programme of the Camara Education Programme |
20,000 |
* |
|
2013 |
John Geraghty |
Review of University College Cork’s Programme of Technical Support Internships for Food Security |
7,568 |
* |
|
2013 |
Natural Research Institute |
Review of Irish Aid Support to Fair and Ethical Trade Initiatives |
19,292 |
* |
|
2013 |
Pham Quang Hoa |
Review Programme 135 (for Ethnic Minorities) of Irish Aid funded infrastructure projects |
5,588 |
* |
|
2013 |
IOD Parc |
Evaluation of Irish Aid's Sierra Leone Strategy Paper, 2011-2013 |
77,907 |
August 2014 |
|
2013 |
Mokoro |
Evaluation of Ireland's Support to Timor Leste, 2001-2014 |
85,203 |
August 2014 |
|
Commission |
Expert/Consultants |
Report/Subject |
Cost (€) |
Date of Publication Not Applicable – see footnote* |
|
2014 |
Hogan Lovells, Washington |
Review of tax, social insurance and health obligations and other conditions of service in respect of locally-recruited staff members at our missions in the United States |
57,756 |
* |
|
2014 |
Gallup Korea (Korea Gallup Poll Co. LTD) |
Working Holiday Agreement Report |
7,217 |
March 2015 |
|
2014 |
Andy Pollak |
Review of Irish Aid support for Initial Teacher Education |
11,564 |
* |
|
2014 |
ADETEF |
OECD DAC EVALNET Study on Collaborative Partner- Donor Evaluation Work |
25,000 |
* |
|
2014 |
Tran i Ngoc Diep |
Local input into Review of Irish Aid scholarship programmes |
1,502 |
* |
|
2014 |
Tom Collins |
Feasibility Study - Celebrating and Sustaining Ireland’s relationship with Africa |
5,000 |
* |
|
2014 |
ITAD Limited |
Mid Term Review of the Civil Society Support Programme |
68,135 |
* |
|
2014 |
David Goodman Payne |
Review of Irish Aid Civil Society Facility in Vietnam |
8,589 |
On-going |
|
2014 |
Cathy Gaynor/Niamh O’Grady/Gill Roe |
Evaluability Assessment of the Programme of Strategic Cooperation |
43,200 |
* |
|
2014 |
Willis Risk Services (Ireland) Limited |
Consultancy for insurance policy report and tender documentation for the Rapid Response Corps |
5,000 |
* |
|
2014 |
Mekong Dev Research Institute |
Impact assessment of Irish Aid funded infrastructure projects under P135 in 2011 & 2012 |
43,912 |
* |
|
2014 |
Karen McMinn |
Report and final review on the implementation of Ireland's National Action Plan on UNSCR (United Nations Security Council Resolution) 1325 on Women, Peace and Security |
9,750 |
2015 |
|
2014 |
Mokoro |
Evaluation of Irish Aid’s Uganda Country Strategy Paper 2010-2014 |
113,739 |
* |
|
2014 |
ASM (B) Ltd |
Payroll System Audit |
11,636 |
* |
|
2015 |
ASM |
Audit of grants awarded under Emigrant Support Programme |
€9,800 |
* |
|
2015 |
Peter McEvoy |
Professional Services for the appraisal of Irish Aid fellowship Training Programme |
16,560 |
* |
|
2015 |
Coffey International Development Ltd |
Review of the Irish Aid Programme Grant Mechanism |
23,588 |
* |
|
2015 |
Tran i Ngoc Diep |
Local input into scoping study to explore Ireland’s cooperation in the agriculture & agribusiness sector under the IDEAS programme |
4,442 |
* |
|
2015 |
Johnny O ‘Regan |
Organisational Assessment of Mary Robinson Foundation – Climate Justice |
4,400 |
* |
|
2015 |
ASM |
The provision of audit services to examine grants awarded under the ESP |
14,700 |
* |
|
2015 |
Mazars |
ICT Audit |
27,552 |
* |
|
2015 |
Crowleys DFK |
Payment System Audit |
19,004 |
* |
|
2015 |
Saferworld |
Conflict Analysis input to the Embassy of Ireland Country Strategy Paper(CSP) development process - Uganda |
15,450 |
* |
|
2015 |
Dr Cornelius Chipoma |
Review of the education Sector programme in the context of Irish Aid Zambia 2013-2017 CSP - Zambia |
3,738 |
* |
|
2015 |
Charles Abola |
Review of Irish Aid support to Acholi Education initiative (AEI) - Zambia |
12,000 |
* |
|
2015 |
Firetail Ltd |
Evaluation of the MVIWATA Strategic Plan 2010-2014 - Tanzania |
21,450 |
* |
|
2015 |
Centre for Social Research |
Review of Irish Aid’s support of the Forum from Women’s Educationalist – Uganda Chapter(FAWEU) |
18,942 |
* |
|
2015 |
Wilberforce MUHWANA |
Design of the Quality Education Component for the Development of the Country Strategy Paper 2016 - 2020 |
14,400 |
* |
|
2015 |
Transparency international |
Consultancy to assess the current Governance and Management status of institutions in Education Sector to appraise Performance, and propose Recommendations to improve Accountability and Transparency |
15,362 |
* |
|
2015 |
Stephens Moore |
Audit and Verification of Grants awarded to the Platform for Social Protection Zambia for 2013 and 2014 |
31,550 |
* |
|
2015 |
Ann Nolan |
Review of the Irish Aid – HSE collaboration - 2015 |
6,300 |
October 2015 |
|
2015 |
Sebastian Kevany |
Review of Irish Aid-CHAI (Clinton Health Access Initiative) Partnership 2011-2015 |
9,000 |
November 2015 |
|
2015 |
Ms Mpala Nkonkomalimba |
Mid Term Review Process Irish Aid Zambia Country Strategy 2013-17 |
6,300 |
* |
|
2015 |
Kate Bridges |
Review of Partners Logic Models/ theories of change- Zambia |
6,680 |
November 2015 |
|
2015 |
Mr Isaac Ngoma |
Mid Term Review Public Financial Management (PFM) Assessment - Zambia |
5,000 |
November 2015 |
|
2015 |
Lahluva Consultores |
Annual Planning Report of G19 and Government of Mozambique and Assessment of Irish Aid Annual Comm to GBS - Mozambique |
24,000 |
March 2016 |
|
2015 |
OPTIMOZ |
Facilitation & Capability Strengthening for Niassa Provincial Leadership Team re Design of Niassa Provincial Strategic Framework for the PEN – 2027 - Mozambique |
25,000 |
November 2015 |
|
2015 |
OPTIMOZ |
Capability Assessment and Initial Facilitation of Planning Exercise for Niassa Provincial Leadership Team 2017-27 - Mozambique |
4,900 |
October 2015 |
|
2015 |
Option Consultancy Services Ltd |
Review of Social Accountability Approaches in Health |
12,872 |
January 2016 |
|
2016 |
Right to Change |
Planning of Irish Aid Country Strategy Programme Tanzania 2017-2022 |
13,974 |
* |
|
2016 |
Grant Thornton |
Audit Services |
100,000 |
* |
|
2016 |
REEV Consult International |
Evaluation of the CSF and the Partnership Fund |
25,000 |
* |
|
2016 |
Kevin Carroll |
Irish Aid Tanzania end of CSP Review |
17,250 |
* |
|
2016 |
Muriel Visser |
Phase III Evaluation of Ireland’s Development Cooperation Programme - Vietnam 2011-2015 |
17,500 |
* |
|
2016 |
Emmanuel Sulle |
Land Rights Scoping Study / Consultancy |
7,500 |
* |
|
2016 |
Ishihaka Mwandalima |
Gender Based Violence scoping study |
3,750 |
* |
|
2016 |
McQuillans |
Accounting, Audit and Financial Services |
6,240 |
* |
|
2016 |
PWC |
Internal audit of Embassy, and external audit of selected projects/programmes |
75,000 |
* |
|
2016 |
Dr Cornelius Chipoma |
Review of the Irish Aid Zambia Education programme |
9,000 |
* |
|
2016 |
Luiz Genedio Mendes Jorge |
Review of the Supreme Audit Institution’s report and opinion on the State Accounts 2014 |
4,800 |
* |
|
2016 |
Southern Cross Consulting |
Review of Embassy of Ireland’s approach to Fellowship in Tanzania |
11,430 |
* |
|
2016 |
Byrne Wallace |
Professional Health service advice |
3,500 |
* |
|
2016 |
Willis Towers Watson |
Study of Compensation Levels - Locally engaged staff in diplomatic missions (USA) |
3,150 |
* |
|
2016 |
Mercer International |
Study of Compensation Levels - Locally engaged staff in diplomatic missions (Irish Aid) |
13,200 |
* |
|
2016 |
Eamon Brehony, Alais Nakuyukuyo Morindat |
Review of Irish Aid support to Pastoralism in Tanzania |
10,450 |
* |
|
2016 |
Centre for Law and Democracy |
Analysis of anti corruption legislation in Tanzania |
2,670 |
* |
|
2016 |
ASM |
Accounting, audit and financial services |
40,000 |
* |
|
2016 |
CASE International |
Consultancy to evaluate the Civil Society Fund |
49,800 |
* |
|
2016 |
Ingrid Obery |
Review of partner results and internal capacity building on results based Management |
25,000 |
* |
|
2016 |
Caoimhe Hughes |
Review of Annual Reports of Programme Grant Partners |
4,000 |
* |
*This report commissioned by the Department is an internal management report and not for publication.
168. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the total photography costs, per annum, for his Department since he came to office, inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance, in tabular form; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the breakdown of costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used; if there is a policy in his Department regarding the booking of photographers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20377/16]
View answerMy Department only avails of the services of external photographic agencies where it is warranted, in particular, for major events and State occasions. This is a service which my Department provides so that the media can easily and freely avail of photography where their own staff photographers cannot be fully accommodated. Events such as the visit of Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall in May resulted in positive coverage of Ireland.
In September 2011, my Department led a collaborative advertised tender process for the procurement of a multi-supplier competitive framework of photographic service providers. This is now available for use by all Government Departments. Details of the framework arrangements and the photographers used are posted on the National Procurement Service website: www.procurement.ie/suppliers/contracts/1298. The purpose of this framework is to ensure Departments’ compliance with EU procurement rules and to ensure value for money by having a competitive process for photographic assignments.
In addition, my Department now makes greater use of in-house resources for photography, including, for example, at the Irish-Africa Economic Forum last October.
The total cost of photography already to my Department billed (a small number of bills have yet to be received) for events which took place over the period in question is:
|
May 6 – July 5 events |
Cost € |
|
Missions: |
|
|
Embassy Beijing Promotional Blown Up Photos |
180.00 |
|
HQ: |
|
|
Grangegorman Cemetery 1916 Commemorative Event |
947.10 |
|
Travelwise Leaflet Launch |
843.78 |
|
Photograph of new Cabinet |
14.00 |
|
Prince of Wales Visit |
1,421.74 |
|
Our World Award Sligo |
184.50 |
|
Launch of Irish Aid Awards |
427.25 |
|
Our World Awards Dublin |
740.46 |
|
Our World Awards Limerick |
200.00 |
|
TOTAL: |
€4,958.83 |
169. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to provide in tabular form, per annum, the use of external public relations firms by his Department since he came into office; the external public relations firm used; to outline the internal departmental policy on employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20392/16]
View answerA table containing the information follows. My Department has not incurred expenditure on external public relations services since my entry into office in May 2016. The expenditure in question has rather arisen in the context of specific initiatives under Ireland’s overseas development programme for which we have from time to time commissioned companies with a public relations and communications background to provide other professional services such as project management, logistics and event management.
DHR Communications has been contracted to manage and administer grants to journalists reporting on international development issues under the Simon Cumbers Media Fund (SCMF) and to manage and administer annual Africa Day celebrations.
The SCMF involves managing three funding rounds each year, including the annual SCMF student competition. This typically involves the following activities:
- Convening national and regional information workshops;
- Managing and administering the application process;
- Organising the judging process;
- Providing detailed feedback to all applicants;
- Processing grant payments and keeping detailed administrative and financial records;
- Maintaining and updating the SCMF website.
It should be noted that expenses paid to third parties account for approximately 30% of the total paid to DHR for managing and administering the Simon Cumbers Media Fund. This includes costs associated with maintaining and updating the SCMF website, facilitating the judging process and raising awareness of the Fund among journalists. DHR was awarded a two-year contract in April 2015 following a competitive tendering process.
Following a further competitive tendering process, DHR was also engaged to plan, manage and execute a national Africa Day 2016 flagship event in Dublin. Like annual Africa Day events held over successive years, this incorporated musical entertainment and cultural activities aimed principally at family audiences. DHR’s role involved the administration of a small grants scheme for regional events which they managed on behalf of the Department in partnership with a number of local authorities. DHR also worked to raise public awareness of the Africa Day events, including through the use of social media and the Africa Day website. This work represented a very minor element of the overall project and was conducted in close cooperation with my Department’s communications office.
In relation to the expenditure on Africa Day, expenses paid to third parties accounted for between 70% and 80% of the total costs listed in the table. This included expenditure on security, sanitation, venue set-up, health and safety matters and small grants to facilitate the participation of community groups.
The following table sets out the payments to DHR since May 2016.
Project/Event
|
Project/Event |
€ |
|
DHR Communications – Africa Day |
€151,861.20 |
|
DHR Communications – Simon Cumbers Media Fund |
€8,047.34 |
170. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if it is common practice for Civil Service recruitment panels to be automatically disbanded after two years, resulting in candidates having to reapply for the same panel despite having attended interviews and moved up in position on the panel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20400/16]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, in general, selection competitions within the Irish Civil Service take place by way of:
- competitions confined to particular Departments (Internal promotion) or
- from competitions open to candidates from all Departments (Interdepartmental promotion) or
- from open competitions to all eligible candidates including members of the public.
Candidates who are successful at a competition are ranked in order of merit and are placed on panels to await appointment when and if a vacancy arises. Recruitment and promotions are made on the basis of an agreed method of sequence. Sequences vary for each grade and usually involve a combination of open, interdepartmental and internal panels. Qualification and placement on a panel is not a guarantee of appointment to a position.
The duration of Interdepartmental and Internal panels are generally agreed at the beginning of each campaign, extensions may be agreed provided there are objective reasons for doing so, but it is the norm that panels will finish at the agreed time.
The rationale for limiting panels are twofold. Firstly it gives people on the panel an opportunity to be recruited or promoted. Secondly, it ensures that panels are not left in place for long periods with no opportunity for others to compete.
Other factors determining the use and duration of panels would be determined by a number of factors including demand, required skills and workforce planning, with reference to their pay budgets.
