Written Answers Nos. 333-354
333. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will change the way his Department calculates contributory pension contributions in order that the calculation will be based on actual years worked and not solely on the date when a person enters the workforce for the first time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31999/16]
View answerThe State pension (contributory) is one of the State pension schemes, and its rate of payment is related to contributions made over years into the Social Insurance Fund. As such, those with a stronger attachment to the workforce, who have paid more into that fund, are more likely to be paid under that scheme. There are a number of criteria which must be satisfied in order to qualify for a State pension contributory. One of the conditions of the State pension (contributory) is that a person needs a minimum of 520 weekly contributions (i.e. 10 years) paid since entering insurable employment. If a person does not have this minimum number of contributions paid, they will not generally have an entitlement to this particular pension, either at a full or reduced rate. Since 1961, when contributory pensions were introduced, the average contributions test has been used in calculating the rate of pension entitlement.
Entitlement is banded, with the maximum rate payable to those with a yearly average of 48-52 contributions, and the minimum rate payable to those with a yearly average in the range of 10-14 contributions per year. Even if someone has only 10 years (520 weeks) of paid reckonable contributions between their 16th and 66th birthdays, they would generally qualify for a State pension (contributory), although the rate payable would vary depending on their circumstances, and it will not always be their most advantageous payment to claim.
Where people who were unattached to the labour market during most of their adult lives cannot qualify for a contributory pension in their own right as they have paid few or no contributions, or cannot qualify for a full rate as a result of an intermittent PRSI record, the social protection system provides alternative methods of supporting such pensioners in old age. Therefore, if their spouse has a contributory pension, they may qualify for an Increase for a Qualified Adult amounting up to 90% of a full rate pension, which by default is paid directly to them. Alternatively, they may qualify for a means-tested State Pension (non-contributory), amounting up to 95% of the maximum contributory pension rate.
Work is underway to replace the 'yearly average' system with a 'total contributions approach'. Under this approach, the number of contributions recorded over a working life will be more closely reflected in the rate of pension payment received. It is expected that the total contributions approach to pension qualification will replace the current average contributions test for State pension (contributory) for new pensioners from around 2020. This is a very significant reform with considerable legal, administrative, and technical components to be put in place prior its implementation. The position of people who have gaps in their contribution records for various reasons will be considered very carefully in developing this reform.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
334. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will consider introducing a less expensive shorter-term passport renewal system for older persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31498/16]
View answerIt is the norm internationally to issue passports of a ten year standard period of validity to all adults. A reduced term of validity for children's passports is necessary as their appearance can change significantly within a short period of years, which can lead to uncertainty as to the identity of the holder. However this is not generally the case for adults of any age. For these reasons, there are no plans to introduce a passport of less than ten year validity for adult applicants.
335. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding the EU Council meeting on 17 October 2016; the issues that were discussed; the actions that will be taken following the Council meeting. [31514/16]
View answerI attended the most recent Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) meeting in Brussels on the 17th of October where Syria, the EU Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy, Tunisia and migration were discussed.
The ongoing conflict in Syria is causing untold human suffering and displacement. At the Foreign Affairs Council meeting, Ireland and the EU strongly condemned the excessive and disproportionate attacks by the regime and its allies against civilians. Ministers also called on Russia to demonstrate all efforts to halt indiscriminate bombing by the Syrian regime, restore a cessation of hostilities, ensure immediate humanitarian access and create the conditions for a credible and inclusive political transition. This is critical to save the lives of Syrian citizens, particularly those who remain in Aleppo. Ministers were also united that the situation in Syria should be referred to the International Criminal Court in order to ensure legal accountability for the victims of the unspeakable crimes that have been committed against them. I believe that the only viable and sustainable way forward remains a comprehensive end to violence and a Syrian-own and Syrian-led political resolution, based on a real political transition process. That remains my objective and that of the EU, and is reflected in the conclusions adopted by the FAC.
Ministers also exchanged views on the follow up to and implementation of the EU Global Strategy (EUGS). I stressed the need to carry forward work on each of the elements of the Strategy – including our approach to resolution of conflicts and crises - in an integrated way. I also welcomed the commitment in the Strategy to continue to mainstream human rights; women, peace and security and gender equality in EU policies. These two important elements were reflected in the Conclusions adopted by EU Foreign Ministers. The security and defence aspects of the Strategy will be presented to Foreign and Defence Ministers at the November FAC meeting. This will focus on enhancing the EU's peace-keeping capacity in support of the United Nations through the further development of the Common Security and Defence Policy as defined in the Lisbon Treaty.
The Council discussed progress in implementing the EU response to the migration crisis. The EU has made a lot of progress in the past 18 months; however, this needs to be complemented by a more determined and coherent effort to address the root causes of recent mass migration to Europe. Strengthening our collective capacity to promote and protect human rights, development cooperation, conflict resolution and global governance externally will help build societies that are more responsive to their citizens' needs. The discussion will help to prepare the next European Council meetings.
I joined Ministers in supporting the transition underway in Tunisia. The EU aims to provide support to Tunisia through a balanced package of financial and non-financial measures and high-level and ambitious political dialogue. Council conclusions reflecting the commitment of the EU to Tunisia were also adopted.
336. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to initiate an action plan aimed specifically at addressing and resolving the ongoing plight and hardship of undocumented Irish citizens living in the United States, including advocating for immigration reforms and relief for undocumented Irish migrants; the extent of engagement which is taking place between authorities both here and in the US to examine these issues and to progress the regularisation of persons with such status residing in the US; if he will request that the issue of the undocumented Irish is discussed as part of any future meetings held between the Government and the incoming US President; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31586/16]
View answerAchieving relief for undocumented Irish migrants in the US and agreement on a facility for future legal migration between Ireland and the US remain key objectives for the Government. The issue is regularly addressed in high level political contacts between Ireland and the US Government and our Embassy in Washington and Consulates elsewhere in the US are very active in advocating for immigration reform.
The Taoiseach has raised the prospects for immigration reform in his contacts with the US Administration, including with Vice President Biden during his visit to Ireland in July. While in Washington for St. Patrick's Day, the Taoiseach and I met President Obama, Vice President Biden, Speaker Ryan, Senator Chuck Schumer and other key Congressional contacts from both sides of the aisle. During these meetings we emphasised the plight of the undocumented Irish in the US and encouraged both Houses of Congress to work on a bipartisan basis towards a comprehensive package of immigration reform measures.
I also availed of my visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly last month to meet Irish community leaders in the United States, to discuss with them the prospects for achieving immigration reform and to reassure them of the Government's commitment to the issue. In addition, Minister of State McHugh met representatives of the Coalition of Irish Immigration Centers, representing a broad group of Irish centres across the United States, in New York on 20 September. That meeting was also attended by Senator Billy Lawless of Seanad Éireann.
The Government, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and our Embassy in Washington will continue to work closely with Irish American community leaders in actively pursuing all viable opportunities to advance immigration reform. While there is little realistic prospect of comprehensive reform within the lifetime of the current Congress, our Ambassador and Embassy staff are working with their contacts on both sides of the political aisle to prepare the basis for a renewed initiative once a new Administration and Congress have been established in Washington DC.
337. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on his meeting with Britain's Minister for Exiting the EU, David Davis. [28717/16]
View answerAlong with the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald T.D. and the Minister of State for European Affairs Dara Murphy T.D., I met the UK Secretary of State for Exiting the EU, David Davis MP, and the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Exiting the EU, Robin Walker MP, at Iveagh House on 8 September. We discussed the challenges posed by the UK electorate's decision to leave the EU. During our discussions the Tánaiste, Minister Murphy and I emphasised Ireland's key concerns in relation to Northern Ireland, border and citizenship issues; the Common Travel area; and the importance of economic trade and people-to-people relations, while the UK Ministers set out the current state of play with regard to their preparations for an EU exit process.
In advance of our meeting, Secretary of State Davis, together with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland James Brokenshire, had made some initial contacts with the Northern Ireland Executive and other stakeholders in Belfast. We discussed the outcomes of those contacts and I urged prioritisation of the vitally important Northern Ireland dimension in the overall Brexit process, with particular focus on the border but also more widely on sustaining the peace and prosperity which have been built up so painstakingly over recent decades.
We had a useful discussion on the implications of and management arrangements for Brexit. This process will be difficult and complex and require thorough planning and regular dialogue. Secretary of State Davis expressed his determination that the excellent relations between Ireland and the UK would continue.
338. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on whether Europe is doing enough to assist civilians in Syria, particularly in Aleppo, in view of the fact that the peace talks being facilitated by the USA and Russia are now disbanded; and his plans to raise this at the next EU Council as one of the most horrific humanitarian crises in recent history where civilians and children are being left without the most basic medical attention, are starving and actually dehydrated due to lack of even water being available. [30527/16]
View answerI share the Deputy's deep concern about and condemnation of the humanitarian crisis in Syria. The conflict in Syria is the greatest humanitarian crisis of our generation. Since 2012, Ireland has provided a total of €62 million in humanitarian assistance to Syria and the region. At present, it is Ireland's largest response to any humanitarian crisis.
At last week's European Council, EU leaders strongly condemned the ongoing aerial attacks on Aleppo by the Syrian regime and Russia and urged both states to bring an immediate end to the atrocities being committed. They repeated calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and stressed that all necessary steps be taken to ensure humanitarian access to Syria. The need to ensure that those who have committed atrocities and breached humanitarian law are held to account was also highlighted. The question of sanctions in response to Russian and Syrian actions in Aleppo was also discussed. It was agreed that the EU would consider all available options should the atrocities against the people of Aleppo continue.
The Taoiseach stressed Ireland's concerns over the crisis in Syria and in Aleppo in particular. I would underline that Russia is bound by international law to ensure the protection of the civilian population and unimpeded humanitarian access.
Through our annual contributions to EU Institutions, Ireland also supports the EU's humanitarian response in Syria. The EU is a leading donor in the international response to the Syrian crisis, and has pledged to contribute €445 million in humanitarian assistance in 2016. The EU's funding inside Syria is focused on providing medical emergency relief, protection, food and nutritional assistance, water, sanitation and hygiene, shelter, health, and logistics services to civilians in need. Beyond the Syrian border, EU funding ensures that people fleeing the country will receive life-saving assistance such as health, food, shelter, water and sanitation services, and protection.
When I met with Commissioner Christos Stylianides, the European Commissioner with responsibility for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management, in Dublin last month I was assured that EU officials are in daily contact with humanitarian partners on the ground, monitoring the situation as it develops and co-ordinating humanitarian activities with key partners and EU Member States. The Commissioner emphasised that the situation in Syria remains very unpredictable, underlining the need for humanitarian partners to remain engaged, and to ensure that humanitarian assistance can enable partners to respond quickly and appropriately to needs as they arise.
I discussed with the Commissioner the EU's new Humanitarian Initiative for Aleppo, which was launched in rapid response to the recent and disturbing escalation of the conflict in Aleppo. This joint EU-UN initiative includes two main elements: firstly, to facilitate the urgent delivery of basic life-saving assistance to civilians in eastern Aleppo; and secondly, to ensure the medical evacuations of wounded and sick, with a focus on women, children and the elderly.
Ireland and our EU partners will continue to monitor the situation closely, and given its complexity and severity, I would expect that Ireland will provide additional support for people affected by the crisis in the coming months.
339. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to meet the Egyptian President, Mr. el-Sisi. [22769/16]
View answerI met with my Egyptian counterpart, Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, in June during my visit to Cairo and again in September during my visit to the United Nations. In the course of my meetings, I raised the case of Mr Ibrahim Halawa, Ireland's concerns about human rights and civil society in Egypt, bilateral relations between Ireland and Egypt and EU-Egyptian relations.
I have no plans at present to meet with President Al-Sisi. However the Taoiseach has met with President Al-Sisi and spoke further with the President this summer.
340. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the consultations engaged in by his Department with the Irish Aviation Authority, the RAF, the British Civil Aviation Authority, the British Ministry for Defence and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office regarding permission being given to the British military to conduct armed operations in Irish sovereign or Irish-controlled airspace in the event of a real time or envisaged threat of a terrorist-related attack from the skies on either this country or a neighbouring state; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27138/16]
View answerI cannot comment on matters relating to national security or responses that might be taken in the event of a terrorist attack. I can however confirm that the Government's engagement in international security co-operation is aimed at ensuring public safety and is conducted with full respect for Irish sovereign decision-making authority and for Ireland's long standing policy of military neutrality.
341. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to Israel’s continued demolition of structures in Palestine that were built with EU funding which includes schools, houses and other important infrastructure; his plans to protect infrastructure in Palestine, particularly infrastructure that has been paid for with the help of Irish taxpayers, from being illegally demolished by Israel; and if he will request compensation for demolished structures from Israel. [31874/16]
View answerDemolitions by Israel of Palestinian structures, including houses and infrastructure such as water and power structures and animal housing, are an ongoing issue and matter of serious concern. This practice is growing in intensity at a time when international opinion has repeatedly called for an end to provocative actions on the ground.
Demolition of structures which have been funded by EU or national programmes, including for instance of emergency shelters provided to evicted Palestinian families, is just one element of this practice, but one which has understandably gained increasing prominence in public awareness in Europe.
We have discussed specific cases of demolitions here in the House, and Deputies will be aware that EU missions, including our own, have been active on the ground in trying to protect threatened communities. However, it is not possible to physically prevent demolitions, or to be present everywhere.
The EU has been discussing for some time the range of issues in Area C in Palestine, including demolitions, and the issue of demolition of EU funded structures. Ireland has argued consistently for a stronger response to these practices. However, the approach of some partners to these issues differs greatly, and agreement has not yet been reached.
342. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the delegated responsibilities he has given to Ministers of State in his Department; when the order of delegated responsibility was signed; if he included his Ministers of State in direct discussions or meetings with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform as part of pre-budget discussions; if so, the dates of such meetings and the attendance at each meeting; if the Minister of State was not included the reason this was the position, in view of the designated responsibilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31916/16]
View answerThere are two Ministers of State at my Department, Joe McHugh T.D. and Dara Murphy, T.D. Minister McHugh has special responsibility for the Diaspora and International Development. Minister Murphy has special responsibility for European Affairs and Data Protection at my Department and at the Departments of An Taoiseach and Justice and Equality.
The Ministers and Secretaries (Amendment) (No. 2) Act, 1977 provides for the delegation of statutory Ministerial powers and duties to Ministers of State. This may be done at the request of the Minister concerned, by Government Order. My statutory powers as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade relate to consular, passport and other technical matters and it is not the practice, nor is it considered necessary, to delegate these functions.
As part of the pre-budget discussions, I met with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform on 28th September last, to discuss the Department's needs for the year ahead.
343. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of the work of the 11 special Irish peace monitors on secondment to the OSCE in eastern Ukraine; if the monitors receive no pay or allowances from his Department for their work; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Ireland is the only western European country that does not provide its monitors with such allowances or pay; if he will consider extending such payments to the monitors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31929/16]
View answerThe OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine, which was established by decision of the Permanent Council of the OSCE on 21 March 2014, is composed of international staff from OSCE participating States and unarmed, civilian monitors, supported in their work by local staff from Ukraine. As of 12 October 2016, there were 693 international monitors in Ukraine, of whom 10 are Irish.
Members of the Special Monitoring Mission are not employees of my Department. They work as International Seconded Mission Members within the OSCE and receive a Board and Lodging Allowance, paid by the OSCE, for the duration of the assignment. Participating states have discretion to provide additional remuneration to Mission Members. I understand that the approach taken to remuneration by other participating States in the OSCE varies significantly.
The Special Monitoring Mission performs vital work in extremely difficult circumstances. Its work includes gathering information and reporting on the security situation in eastern Ukraine, reporting on the humanitarian situation there, facilitating delivery of humanitarian aid of other organizations and helping to establish dialogue and local ceasefires. This work is crucial to the ongoing efforts to find a peaceful settlement for the conflict in Ukraine and for full implementation of the Minsk Agreements.
I am conscious of the security challenges the SMM monitors face in the performance of their duties, particularly those based in Eastern Ukraine, which includes 9 Irish monitors. It is important that the security risks be minimised to enable their invaluable work to continue. To this end, Ireland has engaged with the OSCE regarding the security of the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine. While currently there is no funding for payments in this case, the Department is keeping the issue under review.
344. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of the negotiations with the Crown Estates in relation to the transfer of powers to the Loughs Agency in order for them to control the licensing of aquaculture within Lough Foyle; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32027/16]
View answerWhile I do not have lead responsibility for the Loughs Agency or aquaculture I am very conscious of the current difficulties arising from unlicensed activity in Lough Foyle.
Following discussions in 2011 between the then Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and the British Foreign Secretary, the British and Irish Governments agreed to seek to address and resolve jurisdictional issues relating to both Lough Foyle and Carlingford Lough. Since that time a series of meetings have taken place at official level between the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and my own Department, the most recent of which was in July this year. The issues involved are complex and involve a range of different actors, including the Crown Estates, but I am satisfied that all sides are committed to reaching a positive resolution as soon as possible.
345. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which he continues to interact with the Egyptian authorities in the case of a person (details supplied) who has been detained in Egypt and whose trial has been postponed on numerous occasions; if he expects a breakthrough on the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32083/16]
View answerThe consular case of this citizen continues to be a top priority. The Government is using every possible opportunity to stress to the Egyptian authorities our concerns about this case.
At the last hearing (29 June), the trial was adjourned following an application by defendants for an expert review of the audio-visual evidence in this case. The next hearing is now scheduled to take place on 12 November.
Our immediate and ongoing efforts are focused on pressing the case with the Egyptian authorities for a positive response to the application made in August under Presidential Decree 140 for this citizen's return to Ireland.
I have regular contacts with my Egyptian counterpart, Foreign Minister Shoukry, on this case. On 24 September I met with Minister Shoukry in New York where I again stressed my concerns at the repeated delays in the court proceedings and reinforced the Government's support for the Decree 140 application. This was the latest in a series of contacts which included my visit to Cairo in July. Both I and the Taoiseach have communicated our support for the Decree 140 application to Minister Shoukry and President el-Sisi respectively.
As has been previously reported to the House, the Taoiseach has been in direct contact on a number of occasions with President el-Sisi about this case, underlining the Government's concerns about the continuing detention of this young man, who has been in prison for over three years now without having been convicted of any crime, and who is part of a group trial that has been adjourned on a large number of occasions.
The Taoiseach and I will engage further with the Egyptian Government as and when appropriate, in line with our key focus of securing this citizen's best interests; this means continuing our determined efforts to see him released by the Egyptian authorities at the earliest possible opportunity and, in the meantime, providing consular support for his welfare while he remains in detention.
All of the sustained and focused actions that have been taken by my Department throughout this case have been aimed at furthering these two objectives, and importantly, avoiding any action that could be counterproductive or detrimental to this citizen's best interests.
346. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which he and his EU colleagues are engaged in addressing the humanitarian issues arising from the civil war in Syria; if any change in the methodology for addressing the issues by the EU is envisaged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32084/16]
View answerThe conflict in Syria is the greatest humanitarian crisis of our generation. Since 2012, Ireland has provided a total of €62 million in humanitarian assistance to Syria and the region. At present, it is Ireland's largest response to any humanitarian crisis.
Of the €20 million in funding provided by Ireland so far in 2016, €14 million has been delivered through the Irish Aid programme, managed by my Department, and €6 million through the Department of Agriculture's support to the World Food Programme's Syria response.
Irish Aid funding seeks to meet the needs of those inside Syria, particularly in besieged and hard-to-reach areas, and those who have fled to neighbouring countries. Funding is channelled through partners, including NGOs, UN organisations and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent movement, those who are best placed to respond. These partners provide humanitarian supplies and urgently-needed health, education, water and sanitation services, as well as measures to protect children and vulnerable families. In addition, members of Ireland's Rapid Response Corps have been deployed to the Balkans and Middle East, providing much-needed surge capacity to UN agencies responding to migration challenges resulting from the Syrian conflict.
Through our annual contributions to EU Institutions, Ireland also supports the EU's humanitarian response in Syria. The EU is a leading donor in the international response to the Syrian crisis, and has pledged to contribute €445 million in humanitarian assistance in 2016. The EU's funding inside Syria is focused on providing medical emergency relief, protection, food and nutritional assistance, water, sanitation and hygiene, shelter, health, and logistics services to civilians in need. Beyond the Syrian border, EU funding ensures that people fleeing the country will receive life-saving assistance such as health, food, shelter, water and sanitation services, and protection.
When I met with Commissioner Christos Stylianides, the European Commissioner with responsibility for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management, in Dublin last month I was assured that EU officials are in daily contact with humanitarian partners on the ground, monitoring the situation as it develops and coordinating humanitarian activities with key partners and EU Member States. The Commissioner emphasised that the situation in Syria remains very unpredictable, underlining the need for humanitarian partners to remain engaged, and to ensure that humanitarian assistance can enable partners to respond quickly and appropriately to needs as they arise.
I discussed with the Commissioner the EU's new Humanitarian Initiative for Aleppo, which was launched in rapid response to the recent and disturbing escalation of the conflict in Aleppo. This joint EU-UN initiative includes two main elements: firstly, to facilitate the urgent delivery of basic life-saving assistance to civilians in eastern Aleppo; and secondly, to ensure the medical evacuations of wounded and sick, with a focus on women, children and the elderly.
Ireland and our EU partners will continue to monitor the situation closely, and given its complexity and severity, I would expect that Ireland will provide additional support for people affected by the crisis in the coming months.
347. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which previous commitments towards the alleviation of hardship in Haiti in the wake of the earthquake disaster of some years ago have been honoured in full by each EU country; if a better response can be achieved in the aftermath of the recent hurricane there; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32085/16]
View answerOn 12 January 2010, Haiti was struck by one of the most devastating earthquakes in recent history, causing some 230,000 deaths and 300,000 injuries. The earthquake destroyed much of Port-au-Prince and the surrounding areas, left about 1.5 million people homeless and caused losses estimated at €5.9 billion.
Two months after the earthquake, the international community pledged US $4.5 billion at a donor conference in New York in response to a UN appeal for $1.5 billion. UN figures indicate that, by the end of 2014, $3.52 billion had been provided.
Many donors however, were slow to release funds and aid did reach all affected communities. There have been numerous reviews of aid delivery to Haiti post-earthquake and the findings were that the international community could have responded quicker and more effectively.
Ireland, however, met its commitments to the people of Haiti in full. By the end of 2012, Ireland's pledge of €13 million had been exceeded, with support reaching almost €14 million. In total, in the period 2010-2015, Ireland provided €23.9 million in humanitarian and longer term development funding to Haiti.
Since 2010, the European Commission has provided a total of €272.95 million to assist victims of the earthquake, responding to humanitarian needs and supporting the improvement of basic social services. A key focus of support was to strengthen local capacities in disaster preparedness.
Although there has been significant progress since the 2010 earthquake, including the rebuilding of infrastructure and the restoration of livelihoods, Haiti remains vulnerable to natural hazards, such as Hurricane Matthew in recent weeks.
The impact of Hurricane Matthew has been devastating, causing widespread flooding, damage and displacement. Through the leadership of the Government of Haiti, the international community has responded rapidly to address urgent humanitarian requirements, while also considering the longer terms needs of the affected communities.
Ireland responded quickly and effectively. Through Irish Aid, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade organised an airlift of humanitarian supplies from Ireland's prepositioned stocks in Panama, to provide relief to 1,000 families in one of the worst affected areas. So far, Ireland has provided €1.76 million in funding to longstanding NGO partners, best placed to respond in Haiti for the provision of life saving assistance, including shelter, water, sanitation and health activities, and distribution of food. A further airlift of non-food emergency supplies is planned.
The UN issued a Flash Appeal seeking $119 million for the provision of life-saving assistance to 750,000 people over the coming three months. The United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund has released $5 million to address urgent needs. Ireland last year provided a total of €11.75 million to the Central Emergency Relief Fund, and is its eighth highest donor.
The EU Civil Protection Mechanism was also activated in response to a request from the Government of Haiti. This led to the deployment of a Civil Protection Team, with twelve experts from five countries. Ireland's Rapid Response Corps, managed by my Department, stands ready to deploy. The EU has released funding of €1.75 million in response to the hurricane.
The work of the UN, the EU and the international community remains vital, ensuring that the people of Haiti can recover quickly and rebuild their livelihoods. We are continuing to monitor the situation in the country closely.
348. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which he in conjunction with his EU colleagues can continue to combat the rise of ISIS in the Middle East; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32086/16]
View answerThe issue of how best to respond to the threat posed by terrorism, and particularly by Daesh, has been and remains high on the EU agenda.
Foreign Ministers have consistently underlined that ultimately there will be no defeat of Daesh without a political solution to the crisis in Syria. This is reflected particularly in the comprehensive conclusions on a 'Regional Strategy for Syria and Iraq as well as the Daesh threat', which were adopted by the Council in May this year. Foreign Ministers have also focused on the contribution that the EU can make through external action to preventing and countering terrorism. Engagement with third countries to prevent violent extremism and to strengthen their capacity to detect and prevent terrorism, in full compliance with international law and human rights, is at the heart of the EU's strategy and is reflected in a substantial increase in assistance to third countries in this respect.
The EU's approach is guided by, and is consistent with, the approach taken by the UN to countering Daesh and by the principles and measures set out in relevant UN Security Council Resolutions, including UNSCR 2161 (2014) on freezing funds and other assets of terrorist groups, and UNSCR 2178 (2014) on measures to suppress the recruiting, organising, transporting or equipping of individuals who travel to another State to plan or carry out terrorist acts or training.
The UN Secretary General's comprehensive Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism, presented earlier this year, and his related reports are an important and welcome contribution to addressing the threat posed by Daesh, and to highlighting the measures being taken against them in areas such as countering their financing, preventing and disrupting the travel of foreign terrorist fighters, countering recruitment and preventing violent extremism.
Ireland supports the comprehensive approach being taken at EU level to preventing and countering terrorism. At meetings of the Council I have stressed the need to tackle underlying factors that contribute to radicalisation and terrorism and in particular the importance of the link between security and development. I have also emphasised the need to ensure a joined-up approach in relation to the discussions of Foreign Ministers and those of our Justice and Home Affairs counterparts.
Increasing the effectiveness of information and intelligence-sharing and enhancing border security have been priority themes at recent meetings of the EU Justice and Home Affairs Council. A series of measures is being rolled out to strengthen cooperation and to develop the EU's legal framework for information-sharing, combatting terrorism and controlling illegal firearms. Ireland is fully engaged in pursuing these developments.
349. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on whether it is time for the European Union to set up a particular structure to address the issue of euroscepticism with particular reference to the urgent need to address the sometimes exaggerated claims which if allowed to go unanswered will undermine and destroy the Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32087/16]
View answer354. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which efforts continue to be made to address issues of euroscepticism within the European Union which if left unchecked will inevitably lead to a diminution of the influence of the Union with consequences for member states, particularly the smaller member states; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32092/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 349 and 354 together.
The issue of euro-scepticism is complex and multi-faceted. Obviously it arises particularly in the wake of the outcome of the UK referendum in June. Of course, I am well aware that, in individual Member States, there are those who would wish to leave the Union. However, this is not the position of any other Government or Parliament.
The European Union engages with the big issues of the day, whether they relate to stability, jobs and growth, or to challenges external and internal, such as migration and international terrorism. It is important to continue to engage with these issues at the EU level if we are serious about addressing them. They cannot be addressed at national level.
As the leaders of 27 Member States agreed on 29 June, “The EU is a historic achievement of peace, prosperity and security on the European continent and remains our common framework. At the same time many people express dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs, be it at the European or national level. Europeans expect us to do better when it comes to providing security, jobs and growth, as well as hope for a better future.”
At the Summit which followed in Bratislava on 16 September, the leaders issued a Declaration and Roadmap in which they committed to a range of objectives and concrete measures along three themes: migration and external borders; internal and external security; and economic and social development, youth. The “Bratislava process” is due to conclude in March 2017 to coincide with the 60th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome.
The Government will participate actively in this process, maintaining our particular stress on economic issues, and aiming to put the citizen at the heart of the EU agenda for sustainable investment, competitiveness, growth and jobs.
350. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which the refugee crisis continues to be monitored at EU-UN level with a view to identifying a reliable means of ensuring the safety of the victims of war and strife at all trouble spots; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32088/16]
View answerThe migration crisis remains a top priority for the European Union. In the past two weeks alone, migration has been discussed at the European Council, the Foreign Affairs Council and the Justice and Home Affairs Council.
The European Union has responded to the crisis by adopting a range of measures including engaging with countries of origin and transit through high level dialogues to address the root causes of migration; agreeing a plan to relocate asylum seekers in Italy and Greece across the EU; an extensive package of measures with Turkey under the EU Turkey Statement, including the Turkey Refugee Facility worth €3 billion; an EU-Africa Trust Fund to address migration from Africa; and EUNAVFOR MED Operation Sophia, the naval mission in the Mediterranean to prevent loss of life at sea.
At UN level too the migration crisis has been the focus of two summits held in New York last month. Ireland and Jordan were appointed to co-facilitate negotiations on the arrangements for a UN Summit to address large movements of refugees and migrants, with the aim of bringing countries together behind a more humane and co-ordinated approach to this issue. The Summit outcome, successfully negotiated under the leadership of Ireland and Jordan, clearly reaffirms the centrality of the legal and normative framework that already exists and commits the Member States of the UN to its implementation. It acknowledges inter alia that not enough has been done to reduce the need for people to flee in the first place and that responsibility for protecting and assisting refugees is not being shared fairly.
The outcome document also sets out a detailed “comprehensive refugee response framework” and launches an informal consultation process, to be convened by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, which will culminate in a Global Compact on Refugees in 2018. It further sets out arrangements for the negotiation of a Global Compact on Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, also to be adopted in 2018.
The second Summit - on Refugees - was hosted by President Obama on 20 September. It led to commitments by the 52 countries and international organisations participating (including Ireland) to increase their total 2016 financial contributions to UN appeals and international humanitarian organisations by approximately $4.5 billion above 2015 levels.
351. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which new trading links can be established globally; the extent to which it is expected that Ireland can benefit from such developments in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32089/16]
View answer358. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which the various Irish embassies or consulates throughout the EU and worldwide continue to be used as a means of promoting this country and establishing new trade contacts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32098/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 351 and 358 together.
Advancing Ireland's trade, tourism, education and investment objectives through economic diplomacy and related activities is a key goal of Ireland's foreign policy, informing and directing the work of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and our mission network.
The mission network comprises eighty embassies, consulates and multilateral offices. They play crucial roles in supporting Irish businesses to grow overseas, in promoting our wider trade interests including through EU and WTO regulation; in addressing market access issues; in underpinning the work of our State agencies and in supporting Ministerial visits and trade missions.
In the evolving global economic and trading environment, and against the backdrop of the British vote to leave the EU, it is essential that our mission network is equipped to adapt and evolves to meet new challenges and exploit new opportunities for Irish trade. We also need to ensure that the network continues to be appropriately equipped and resourced to support Ireland's economic objectives overseas.
It is increasingly important that our work both at HQ and abroad is strategically focused and closely co-ordinated as a whole-of-government exercise. Guided by the Government's Trade, Tourism and Investment Strategy, launched in 2010 and reviewed in 2014, new Embassies have been opened since 2014 in Bangkok (Thailand), Jakarta (Indonesia), Nairobi (Kenya) and Zagreb (Croatia) as well as Consulates-General in Hong Kong (China), Austin (Texas, USA) and Sao Paulo (Brazil). The opening of these new Embassies and Consulates has strengthened Ireland's capacity to take advantage of emerging market opportunities.
With a view to further augmenting the economic work of my Department and our Embassy network, I launched a new Economic Diplomacy Strategy in January 2016. A central element of the Strategy is the establishment of a network of locally-hired Commercial Attachés to extend the range and impact of our embassies' trade activities. Locally hired Commercial Attachés are being appointed initially on a pilot basis in our embassies in Mexico, Brasilia, Buenos Aires, Bucharest, and Jakarta and consideration will be given to the potential for similar appointments in other locations in the future. In addition, provision has already been made for the appointment of an Economic Development Officer (EDO) in Abuja, funded from the Irish Aid budget, whose role is analogous to that of a Commercial Attaché.
Within the context of our already very successful Local Market Teams in key markets, this initiative will equip Embassies to open additional business links and networks for Ireland's exporters, complementing and aligning with the work undertaken by the State agencies and their networks overseas.
All efforts by Embassies and Local Market Teams abroad to take advantage of new opportunities for Irish business in key markets will continue to be guided here at home by the work of the Trade Division within my Department and by the Export Trade Council, which I chair. The Export Trade Council met most recently on 18 October when there was a particular focus on the Asia Pacific region. Total exports of goods and services from Ireland to the Asia Pacific region exceeded €20 billion in 2014 and there is great potential for future growth in exports and investment links. The Programme for Partnership Government mandated whole-of-Government cross-sectoral strategies for the Asia Pacific and Americas regions. Work on the formulation of these strategies is well underway.
Work is also in hand, in partnership with the Department for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and other stakeholders, on accelerating the formulation of the successor policy to the Trade, Tourism and Investment Strategy.
352. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which Ireland’s trade with various countries throughout the European Union continues to grow; the way in which this compares with other countries globally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32090/16]
View answerMy Department, working through our diplomatic missions abroad, takes its trade promotion role very seriously. Our Embassies and Consulates take every opportunity to promote Irish business abroad, conscious that trade is a key driver of the Irish economy.
Ireland's merchandise trade continues to grow. Last year it reached more than €182 billion, the highest figure ever. The European Union is our largest trading partner, accounting for about 56% of total trade, of which the UK last year accounted for 26% of exports and 44% of imports; Germany 13% of exports and 14% of imports; and Belgium 24% of exports and 3% of imports. And trade with the EU is growing. Last year, the value of total trade (imports and exports) with the EU reached more than €101 billion.
Ireland's services exports and imports to EU countries have also grown significantly in recent years. There was a slight decline in the value of services exports and imports immediately following 2008, but subsequent years have shown growth, particularly in services exports. Services exports to the EU-27 grew by 13% between 2013 and 2014, exceeding growth in services exports to North America, Africa and Asia.
Other major trade partners are the United States (23 percent of exports and 12 percent of imports) and China. Trade with NAFTA countries (US, Canada and Mexico) has been growing strongly over the past decade with the value of imports and exports combined up approximately 61%.
As Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, I am determined to lead the Government's efforts to diversify and open up our exports globally. This is critical to Ireland's economic success, but takes on a renewed importance in light of the UK's decision to leave the EU.
Last week, I chaired the 13th meeting of the Export Trade Council, which focussed in particular on the high potential of the Asia Pacific region. We also discussed the challenges and opportunities for Irish export trade following the UK decision to leave the European Union
353. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which he and his European colleagues continue to engage with their colleagues in the UK with a view to addressing any concerns that might exist in the event of a British exit from the European Union; if the full implications for Britain, Ireland, Northern Ireland and the European Union have been fully examined and steps taken to address any issues emerging; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32091/16]
View answerAs part of an intensive programme of political engagement across the EU as a whole, including contacts with all 28 member state foreign ministers and with the EU institutions, I have been engaging with a number of ministers from the UK government.
I met with Secretary of State for Exiting the EU, David Davis MP, last month in Dublin and I was joined in this meeting by the Tánaiste and by Minister of State Dara Murphy. I have also met with Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson on a number of occasions and have been meeting with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, James Brokenshire. On all occasions, I and my ministerial colleagues have emphasised Ireland's key priorities around Northern Ireland, the border arrangements, the Common Travel area and the importance of economic, trade and people-to-people relations. I have also emphasised Ireland's ongoing commitment to a strong EU characterised by partnership, peace and prosperity.
These contacts form part of a pattern of engagement with UK and EU counterparts across government, led by the Taoiseach. In terms of his own engagement with the UK government, the Taoiseach spoke with Prime Minister May shortly after she took office and subsequently met with her; their most recent meeting was at last week's European Council meeting in Brussels.
The Government's preparations for the possibility of the UK leaving the EU have been ongoing for over a year now. We engaged in extensive contingency planning in advance and continue to deepen and develop our analysis as the situation evolves. Our planning ahead of the negotiations – both for the risks and opportunities for Ireland – will intensify in the coming weeks at both political and official level. The negotiations will be complex and multi-layered, and to ensure an effective whole-of-Government response to the challenges ahead, we have developed specific structures for Brexit including a new Cabinet Committee dedicated to Brexit and a strengthened EU function in my own department, among other measures.
