Written Answers Nos. 190 - 213
190. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if taxpayers will be expected to carry the cost of EU penalties for not complying with our targets for greenhouse gas reduction and required share of energy from renewable sources by 2020. [34066/16]
View answerThe EU's 2020 targets for emissions reductions, energy efficiency and renewable energy form a cornerstone of EU climate and energy policy. The EU aims to deliver a 20% reduction in Green House Gas (GHG) emissions, a 20% improvement in energy efficiency, and 20% of energy from renewable sources by 2020.
In relation to GHG emissions, for each year between 2013 and 2020, Ireland has an emissions reduction target under the 2009 Effort Sharing Decision (ESD) No. 406/2009/EC. For the year 2020 itself, the target set for Ireland is that emissions should be 20% below their value in 2005. This is jointly the most demanding 2020 reduction target allocated under the ESD and one shared only by Denmark and Luxembourg. The 2013 target is based on the average of emissions for the years 2008-2010. The target for each of the years 2014 through 2019 is on a straight-line trajectory between the targets for 2013 and 2020, and surpluses in one year can be used to cover deficits in any subsequent year. The average incidence of these targets is a 12% reduction relative to 2005.
In March 2016, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published projected emissions for 2020 which indicate that Ireland’s emissions at that stage could be in the range of 6 - 11% below 2005 levels. On a cumulative basis over the period 2013 - 2020, Ireland is projected to have a deficit of between 3 and 12 Megatonnes Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (MtCO2e).
The extent of the challenge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in line with our EU and international commitments, is well understood by the Government, as reflected in the National Policy Position on Climate Action and Low Carbon Development, published in April 2014, and now underpinned by the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act, 2015, which was enacted in December 2015. The National Policy Position provides a high-level policy direction for the adoption and implementation by Government of plans to enable the State to move to a low carbon economy by 2050. Statutory authority for the plans is set out in the Act.
In accordance with Section 4 of the Act, and in line with responsibilities assigned to me as Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, I intend to make a draft National Mitigation Plan available for public consultation by the end of the year followed by submission of a final plan to Government for approval by June 2017. Work is well underway on the development of the National Mitigation Plan, the primary objective of which will be to track implementation of measures already underway, identify additional measures in the longer term to reduce GHG emissions, and progress the overall national low carbon transition agenda to 2050. The first iteration of the National Mitigation Plan will place particular focus on putting the necessary measures in place to address the challenge to 2020, but also in terms of planning ahead to ensure that appropriate policies and measures will be in place beyond that.
Notwithstanding the efforts outlined above to address the challenge to comply with the 2020 targets, in the event that a gap to target still exists in 2020, retirement of Annual Emissions Allocations and units from the Kyoto Protocol Flexibility Mechanisms carried forward from 2008-2012 can be offset against the deficit. In the event that this would not fully address any potential deficit, further carbon units could be purchased. It is not possible to accurately quantify the cost to purchase notional carbon units at this stage as the cost is dependent on both the quantum and price of carbon units to be purchased at the time. Should the need to purchase carbon units arise, funding options will be considered in due course and will have regard to a number of matters, including the need to comply with the fiscal rules.
In relation to renewable energy, the 2009 EU Renewable Energy Directive set Ireland a legally binding target of meeting 16% of our overall energy requirements from renewable sources by 2020. Ireland is committed to achieving this target through meeting 40% of electricity demand, 12% of heat and 10% of transport from renewable sources. The Government has a range of policy measures and schemes to incentivise the use of renewable energy and good progress is being made. Nevertheless, meeting our 2020 targets remains very challenging.
While the cost of any shortfall in Ireland's target of 16% has yet to be established, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has estimated that the cost to Ireland may be in the range of €100 million to €150 million for each percentage point Ireland falls short of the overall 16% renewable energy target.
191. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will provide a list of all contingent assets in his Department and in agencies under his Department where amounts can be owed but are not listed in the national accounts as an asset; if he will further provide a full breakdown of each category of contingent assets and the estimated amounts in the category; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34072/16]
View answerWhile Public Financial Procedures provide that Government Departments can recognise contingent liabilities in their accounts in certain very limited circumstances, there is no existing requirement to maintain a list of contingent assets; my Department does not, therefore, maintain such a list.
I will ask the agencies under the aegis of my Department to supply any relevant information directly to the Deputy.
192. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the progress made on the programme for Government commitment on addressing long-term challenges such as broadband and climate change. [33805/16]
View answerThe Government’s National Broadband Plan, which was published in August 2012, aims to radically change the broadband landscape in Ireland by ensuring that high speed broadband is available to all citizens and businesses. The Programme for Government commits to the delivery of the NBP as a matter of priority. This is being achieved through private investment by commercial telecommunications companies and through a State intervention in areas where commercial investment has not been fully demonstrated.
A key principle of the NBP is to support and stimulate commercial investment through policy and regulatory measures. Commercial investment since the publication of the NBP has considerably exceeded expectations. To date, the commercial telecommunications sector has invested over €2bn in upgrading and modernising networks which support the provision of high speed broadband and mobile telecoms services.
Approximately 1.3m premises in Ireland can now get high speed broadband and at least one mobile operator is delivering 4G services to over 90% of the population. It is estimated that up to 70% of premises in Ireland will have access to commercial high speed broadband services provided by telecommunications operators, while the remaining 30% consisting of over 750,000 premises will fall within the proposed State led intervention under the National Broadband Plan.
The High Speed Broadband Map, which is available at www.broadband.gov.ie shows the extent of the State Intervention area and provides information on a county by county basis with a breakdown of coverage across the townlands in every county. Individuals can check whether their premises is in a BLUE or an AMBER area by scrolling through the map online or entering their Eircode. The Department also has a dedicated mailbox and anyone with a query in relation to the Map should email the Department, quoting their Eircode, to roadband@dccae.gov.ie.
The rollout of services by commercial operators in the BLUE area is being kept under constant review by the Department to ensure that all premises can get access to services, either through commercial investment or the State intervention.
The Department is now in a formal procurement process to select a company or companies who will roll-out a new high speed broadband network within the State Intervention Area comprising over 750,000 premises, covering 100,000km of road network and 96% of the land area of Ireland.
Intensive dialogue with bidders is continuing and the three bidders have indicated that they are proposing a predominantly fibre-to-the-home solution. Householders and businesses may get speeds not just of 30 Megabits per second but potentially up to 1000 Megabits per second with businesses potentially availing of symmetrical upload and download speeds.
Earlier this year, before I came into office, the Department announced that it would be June 2017 before contract(s) were awarded under the NBP. The bidders in the process have recently indicated that they may need more time to conclude the procurement process. The timing of each stage of the procurement continues to be dependent on a range of factors including the complexities that may be encountered by the procurement team, and bidders, during the procurement process. Bidders need adequate time to prepare detailed proposals and their final formal bids and get the relevant shareholder and funding approvals at key stages of the process. It is also important to ensure that risks in this multi-million euro procurement are carefully managed. I do not propose to comment any further at this juncture, given that discussions are ongoing in the procurement process. I can assure the Deputy however, that the procurement process is being intensively managed, to ensure an outcome that delivers a future-proofed network that serves homes and businesses across Ireland, for at least 25 years. The Government considers the NBP to be one of the most significant investments in rural Ireland for decades, and one which will transform society, akin to rural electrification in the last century.
In parallel, and in accordance with commitments in the Programme for Government, Minister Humphreys is leading on the establishment of two regional action groups to help accelerate the broadband network build in rural Ireland, once a contract(s) has been awarded.
In July, I established a Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce with Minister Humphreys to address immediate issues in relation to the quality of mobile phone and broadband coverage. I expect the Taskforce to report by the end of this year.
In addition, I recently signed Regulations allowing ComReg to proceed with an early 2017 auction of the 3.6GHz radio spectrum band, to provide an 86% increase in total spectrum available for mobile and fixed wireless services. I have also secured €8m for RTÉ which will allow it to free up the 700 MHz spectrum band.
Through the implementation of the Programme for Government we are committed to increasing the availability of high speed broadband and mobile services, with a view to ensuring that all citizens and businesses can participate fully in a digitally enabled society.
The extent of the long term challenge arising from climate change is well understood by Government. Existing policy is set out in the National Policy Position on Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (2014) which established a high-level policy direction for the adoption and implementation by Government of mitigation and adaptation plans to enable the State to pursue the transition to a low carbon, climate resilient and environmentally sustainable economy by 2050 (known as the ‘national transition objective’). Subsequently, the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act 2015 established the national transition objective on a statutory basis and in order to facilitate the transition, provided, inter alia, for the development and submission to Government for approval of national mitigation plans and national adaptation frameworks.
Development work on the first mitigation plan and adaptation framework is progressing. Under the 2015 Act, a draft National Mitigation Plan will be made available for public consultation by the end of the year, followed by submission of a final plan to Government for approval by June 2017. The primary objective of the mitigation plan will be to track implementation of measures already underway and identify additional measures in the longer term to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and progress the overall national low carbon transition agenda to 2050.
Similarly in relation to adaptation, the 2015 Act provides for the making and submission to the Government of iterative national adaptation frameworks which will specify the national strategy for the application of adaptation measures in different sectors and by local authorities in order to reduce the vulnerability of the State to the negative effects of climate change and to exploit any beneficial opportunities that may arise. Work is progressing in relation to the first adaptation framework, which must be submitted to Government no later than 10 December 2017.
Policy in relation to tackling both the mitigation and adaptation aspects of climate change in Ireland has been in development for a number of years, having regard to EU and international obligations, national policy and the recent legislative provisions referred to earlier. Taken together, these and other measures, including the mainstreaming of climate change considerations into policies and operations across different sectors and the National Dialogue on Climate Change, form part of a long-term strategy to pursue substantial decarbonisation of the energy, transport and built environment sectors and carbon neutrality in the agriculture and land sector. They will also assist our towns and cities to adapt to the future impacts that climate change will bring and ultimately build a level of climate resilience that society will require in the future.
193. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to move Gormanston train station in County Meath into the same zone which is currently in the medium hop zone in view of Sallins, Naas, and Kilcock train stations being moved into the short hop zone; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33953/16]
View answerThe issue raised is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) in conjunction with Iarnród Éireann and I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
The referred reply under Standing Order 42A was forwarded to the Deputy.
194. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to upgrade the N4 from Sligo to Dublin motorway; if, in the context of Brexit and its effects on the Border region, he will prioritise this upgrade in view of the lack of any motorway to the west and north west north of the M6; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33979/16]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The planning, design and implementation of individual national road projects is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (formerly known as the NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
The Capital Plan published in September 2015 sets out transport investment priorities to 2022. Decisions on the transport elements of the Capital Plan were framed by the conclusions reached in my Department’s Strategic Investment Framework for Land Transport. Based on the findings in that report it is envisaged that maintenance and renewal of the road network will continue to be the main priority over the next period and the bulk of the roads capital budget, over €4 billion, is earmarked for such essential work with a further €600 million allocated for implementation of the PPP road programme which is already underway. The scope for major road upgrade projects within the available capital envelope is, therefore, very limited. Nevertheless provision has been made in the Capital Plan for the upgrade of the N4 Collooney to Castlebaldwin road.
195. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport further to Parliamentary Question No. 74 of 2 November 2016, if he has met with the Taoiseach following this Deputy's Leaders' Questions question on 19 October 2016, on the topic of road safety, to correct the Taoiseach's statement (details supplied); and if he has informed the Taoiseach that this technology is not yet in use in road safety enforcement here. [34058/16]
View answerI have not met with the Taoiseach to specifically discuss road safety and the technology utilised by An Garda Síochána in the enforcement of road traffic legislation. However, my officials regularly brief the Taoiseach on all aspects of road safety and developments in safety technology by my department. In addition, I continue to keep my cabinet colleagues updated on all road safety issues. Like myself, the Taoiseach and my cabinet colleagues are concerned at the increase in road fatalities this year and are working actively to revert this worrying trend.
Any questions relating to the use of such technology by An Garda Siochana are primarily a matter for the Garda Commissioner.
196. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if there are plans to buy new buses for the Dublin Bus fleet; if such buses will give additional capacity or just replace existing buses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34063/16]
View answerThe National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area and for securing the provision of Public Service Obligation (PSO) public transport services.
Funding is provided annually for the renewal of the PSO bus fleet. Under the Capital Plan funding in excess of €500 million is being allocated for the bus replacement programme over the period 2016-2022. The bus replacement programme will ensure a modern, reliable, comfortable and accessible PSO fleet and will help reduce the average age and associated maintenance costs of the fleet.
As part of Budget 2017, I announced that funding would be provided next year that will facilitate the purchase of 110 new buses for the PSO bus fleet for the Dublin region. This will allow for replacement of older vehicles and will also cater for increased demand. The extent to which these buses will be used to replace older vehicles or to expand the current PSO fleet will be determined by the NTA taking account of demand.
197. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide a list of all contingent assets in his Department and in agencies under his Department where amounts can be owed but are not listed in the national accounts as an asset; if he will further provide a full breakdown of each category of contingent assets and the estimated amounts in the category; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34084/16]
View answerThe Department has no contingent assets. The position regarding the Agencies under the remit of this Department is a matter for their direct response. I have forwarded a copy of your question to them for direct reply. If you have not heard from them within ten working days, please contact my private office.
The referred replies under Standing Order 42A were forwarded to the Deputy.
198. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if she will provide a list of all contingent assets in her Department and in agencies under her Department where amounts can be owed but are not listed in the national accounts as an asset; if she will further provide a full breakdown of each category of contingent assets and the estimated amounts in the category; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34079/16]
View answerI wish to confirm to the Deputy that my Department and its Agencies, have no contingent assets where amounts can be owed and are not listed in the national accounts as assets.
199. Deputy Seamus Healy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the position regarding the application for €1.2 million in capital funding for Scouting Ireland for developments at Larch Hill and Killaloe; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33968/16]
View answerIn 2016 some €2.6m has been allocated to my Department for a capital funding scheme for youth projects and services. The scheme was open to projects that are funded by the Department under the Special Projects for Youth scheme, Young People’s Facilities and Services Fund, Local Drugs Task Force Projects scheme and Youth Information Centres scheme. The scheme was also open to national youth organisations in receipt of funding under the Youth Services Grants Scheme.
The scheme was split into two categories, Type One and Type Two. Type One provided for smaller capital projects including the up-grade or replacement of equipment or the purchase of essential equipment to support the running of the project/organisation in the provision of quality services for young people. Type Two provided for health and safety improvements to premises and/or upgrade or refurbishment of premises, including improvements to enable access for young people with disabilities, including those with physical or sensory disabilities. Applicants were limited to one application under Type One and one application under Type Two and the maximum grant payable was €50,000.
Scouting Ireland successfully applied for funding under this scheme and was awarded €49,630 under Type Two to fund the improvement of disability access and security at Scouting Ireland, National Water Activity Centre in Killaloe, Co. Clare. A second Type Two application was received in respect of Scouting Ireland's Larch Hill premises. The application was deemed ineligible by the Youth Capital Scheme 2016/2017 Appraisal Committee as organisations were limited to one Type Two application only. My Department has received no application for funding amounting to €1.2m from Scouting Ireland.
Work on the development of a new capital funding scheme for 2017 is underway. My Department is engaging with each Education and Training Board Youth Officer to identify the capital needs of the youth sector. I hope to announce details of this new capital scheme in the coming months. I do not envisage that my Department will be providing grants of the magnitude sought by Scouting Ireland.
Scouting Ireland receives annual funding under my Department's Youth Service Grant Scheme which supports national youth organisations. In 2016, some €835,000 has been allocated to the organisation. In addition, €200,000 is provided to them under the Dormant Accounts Fund.
200. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of total posts and vacant posts in child protection teams broken down by grade and area, including administrative staff, social care workers, access workers and all grade of social workers. [34062/16]
View answerThe information requested is not readily available in my Department. My officials have requested the information from Tusla and I will forward the reply to the Deputy once I have been furnished with it.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 42A
I refer to your written Parliamentary Question (Ref: 34062/16 of 9th November 2016) requesting information in respect of the number of total posts and vacant posts in child protection teams broken down by grade and area, including administrative staff, social care workers, access workers and all grade of social workers.
As previously advised in my response of 9th November, the information was being compiled and was not available at that time. I now enclose a detailed report from Tusla as at September 2016 (the latest report available at this time).
Tusla has advised that child protection services are delivered geographically through four regions. The table below identifies the whole time equivalent, as at September 2016, working in these four regions and in Child Residential Services and Corporate National Services (Adoption, Early Years, Education Welfare, Learning and Development, Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence Services).
Tusla continues to have ambitious recruitment targets and expects to recruit an additional 663 whole time equivalent posts across a range of professional, para-professional and business support functions before the end of 2017.
The final allocation of these additional resources between Tusla’s regions will be informed by on-going discussions between Tusla and it’s Regional HR Managers to identify positions required to meet service needs.
2017 will be the second year of a three year initiative to tackle the issue of child protection cases awaiting allocation to a social worker and the additional funding announced by this Department for Tusla in 2017 will allow the Agency to continue its programme of social worker recruitment to address this issue.
-
Posts by Region and Grade Group as at September 2016
|
POSTS |
WTE |
|
Child Resident Serv |
761.08 |
|
Social Work |
12.69 |
|
Social Care |
667.92 |
|
Psychologists & Counsellors |
3.71 |
|
Other Support Staff inc. Catering |
48.48 |
|
Nursing |
0.79 |
|
Management VIII+ |
3 |
|
Family Support |
3.04 |
|
Admin Grades |
21.45 |
|
Corporate National Services includes: Adoption Services, Early Years Services, Education Welfare Services, Learning & Development, Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence Services |
414.04 |
|
Social Work |
81.33 |
|
Social Care |
11.51 |
|
Psychologists & Counsellors |
1.8 |
|
Other Support Staff inc Catering |
1.99 |
|
Other Health Professionals |
2 |
|
Nursing |
42.61 |
|
Management VIII+ |
67.92 |
|
Family Support |
1.66 |
|
Education Welfare Officers |
79.22 |
|
Admin Grades |
124 |
|
Dublin Mid Leinster |
614.06 |
|
Social Work |
360.93 |
|
Social Care |
88.65 |
|
Psychologists & Counsellors |
14.05 |
|
Other Support Staff inc Catering |
4.51 |
|
Other Health Professionals |
4.92 |
|
Management VIII+ |
8.77 |
|
Family Support |
60.56 |
|
Admin Grades |
71.67 |
|
Dublin North East |
567.15 |
|
Social Work |
313.74 |
|
Social Care |
95.23 |
|
Psychologists & Counsellors |
1.83 |
|
Other Support Staff inc Catering |
4.04 |
|
Management VIII+ |
10.98 |
|
Family Support |
56.11 |
|
Admin Grades |
85.22 |
|
South |
572.91 |
|
Social Work |
352.43 |
|
Social Care |
105.57 |
|
Psychologists & Counsellors |
0.46 |
|
Other Support Staff inc Catering |
2.51 |
|
Other Health Professionals |
0.5 |
|
Nursing |
4 |
|
Management VIII+ |
7 |
|
Family Support |
24.69 |
|
Admin Grades |
75.75 |
|
West |
625.67 |
|
Social Work |
351.32 |
|
Social Care |
128.01 |
|
Psychologists & Counsellors |
0.63 |
|
Other Support Staff inc Catering |
2.47 |
|
Other Health Professionals |
2.5 |
|
Management VIII+ |
9.14 |
|
Family Support |
18.75 |
|
Admin Grades |
112.85 |
|
Grand Total |
3554.91 |
201. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will provide a list of all contingent assets in her Department and in agencies under her Department where amounts can be owed but are not listed in the national accounts as an asset; if she will further provide a full breakdown of each category of contingent assets and the estimated amounts in the category; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34071/16]
View answerThere are no contingent assets in my Department. I have also been informed by Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, the Ombudsman for Children's Office and the Adoption Authority of Ireland that none of those organisations hold any contingent assets.
202. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will make resources available within her Department to support and facilitate a centre (details supplied), in view of the improving economic conditions. [34088/16]
View answerConsideration of financial contributions by my Department over the period 2016 – 2018 for a second Sexual Abuse and Violence in Ireland (SAVI 2) research project gives rise to a number of issues: the availability of funding, the prioritisation of expenditure, competing demands in the area of research and requisite public procurement considerations.
With regard to funding, I understand that the proposal for a second Sexual Abuse and Violence in Ireland (SAVI 2) research project envisages a significant level of expenditure over a three year period by my Department and the Departments of Justice and Equality, Health, and Education and Skills, with some €230,000 over the three years being sought from my Department. Apart from the funding of existing commitments relating to the Growing Up in Ireland Study, my Department has only a very limited commissioned research budget. The majority of this budget has been committed for 2016, 2017 and 2018.
My Department has recently ascertained from the Child and Family Agency that priority of relevant expenditure by it, at present, is aimed at enhancing its business intelligence around Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence in order to support the planning and commissioning of services. To this end, the Agency is working with funded service provider organisations to implement standard data gathering and reporting mechanisms and address data quality issues.
In implementing its obligations under both the Istanbul Convention and commitments under the Second National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence, the Agency advises that it will be looking at how to address specific research and evidence needs to inform future commissioning and to support measurement of outcomes.
Importantly, there are public procurement considerations, and it remains the case that any commissioned research funded by my Department is subject to a procurement process on foot of a call under our funded research programme or similar, and that it is done in line with Departmental research priorities.
My Department has sought the views of the Child and Family Agency regarding the degree to which it would view a repeat of SAVI as assisting the Agency in the discharge of its functions and also its priorities in terms of supporting policy and practice development in this area.
203. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which malaria preventative treatment available to the Defence Forces here meets international health and safety standards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34018/16]
View answerThe United Nations recent Medical Support Manual 2015, which is to serve as a standard reference document on medical support aspects of United Nations peacekeeping operations and political missions in the field provides that anti-malarial medicines can be used to prevent malaria. It does not make any recommendations as to which chemoprophylaxis should be used but rather makes reference to the World Health Organisation (WHO) International Travel and Health Handbook for the latest information on malaria chemophylaxis. The WHO Handbook provides for a range of anti-malarials. The WHO Handbook notes that there are specific contraindications and possible side-effects for ALL anti-malarial drugs.
I am advised that the Defence Forces Medical Policy on the use of malaria chemoprophylaxis is in line with the United Nations (UN) and World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines.
205. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the degree to which modern training and equipment remains available to each branch of the Defence Forces, namely the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34020/16]
View answerMy priority as Minister with Responsibility for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Defence Forces is maintained to the greatest extent possible so as to enable the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service to carry out their roles as assigned by Government.
The acquisition of new equipment for the Defence Forces remains a clear focus for me, and the White Paper on Defence published in 2015 recognises that there are several new and or enhanced platforms to be procured. Future equipment priorities for the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service are being considered in the context of the lifetime of the White Paper on Defence as part of the capability development and equipment planning priorities planning process.
Training standards in the Defence Forces are constantly benchmarked against international best practice. Participation in overseas operations also necessitates multi-lateral training and assessment. This facilitates ongoing review of Defence Forces training methods and standards within an international military context.
I am satisfied that the Defence Forces training techniques and the most modern methods and effective range of equipment which is line with best international standards are available to ensure that personnel are fully equipped to meet their roles.
206. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which annual training courses remain available to the FCA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34021/16]
View answer207. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which updated military training remains available to the Reserve Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34022/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 206 and 207 together.
The White Paper on Defence 2015 provides that the overall establishment of the Army Reserve (AR) and the Naval Service Reserve (NSR) is set at 4,169 personnel, consisting of 3,869 Army Reservists and the expansion of the four Naval Service Reserve Units from 200 to 300 personnel. The White Paper also outlined that the primary role of the Reserve is to augment the PDF in crisis situations. In non-crisis situations, the main focus is on training to prepare for this role.
A key recommendation of the Value for Money Review of the RDF, published in November 2012, was to ensure that all effective members of the Reserve were afforded the opportunity to undertake voluntary annual training. In 2016, Subhead A.5 provides for a budget of €2.150m. of which €2.068m is allocated to paid training. This allocation provides for 30,000 Paid Training Mandays for members of the Reserve. This provision is sufficient having regard to the existing strength of the Reserve and the voluntary nature of Reserve training.
In order to facilitate the voluntary nature of Reserve Service, training continues to be organised both in and out of normal working hours and at weekends. Reserve training is also organised during academic and traditional holiday periods, in order to maximise attendance of Reserve personnel.
In the Army Reserve, recruits undergo varied training in areas such as combat first aid, military law and tactical training. A major part of Recruit training is training in the Steyr 5.56mm Assault Rifle. After recruit training is complete, soldiers are then trained in the operation of basic radio communications, map reading, Nuclear, Biological and Chemical warfare defence and the Light Machine Gun. Each Corps also carries out specialist training in its particular field. For example, the Infantry and Cavalry Corps trainin weapons and tactics and the Corps of Engineers train in engineering tasks, such as demolition, construction and mine warfare.
In the Naval Service Reserve, the two main courses undertaken as a recruit are Sea Survival and Damage Control and Fire Fighting. NSR personnel also undergo training in the operation of various crafts operated by the Naval Service, such as Motor Training Launches and Rigid Inflatable Boats. As in the Army Reserve, NSR personnel are trained in the use of the Steyr 5.56mm Assault Rifle. NSR personnel also receive full training in VHF Radios, including voice procedure at sea and operation of the VHF systems. Courses are also run for NSR personnel on the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System.
I am satisfied that the extensive and professional training provided to the RDF along with other initiatives outlined in the White Paper will be a key motivating factor in encouraging more people to join the RDF as well as making it more attractive for current members to stay.
208. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of females at all ranks now serving throughout the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34023/16]
View answerThe strength (whole time equivalent) of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) at 30 September 2016, the latest date for which figures are available, was 9,044. This comprises 7,247 Army, 718 Air Corps and 1,079 Naval Service. Of this figure, 551 personnel (6.1%) are women. The following tables contain the above mentioned strengths broken down into Army, Naval Service and Air Corps by gender and rank groupings.
The establishment ceiling of the Permanent Defence Force is 9,500. Recruitment campaigns are under way in order to reach this establishment. Current and previous recruitment campaigns have sought to target potential female candidates.
As has been outlined in previous replies to Parliamentary Questions, the Government is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for men and women throughout the Defence Forces and to the full participation by women in all aspects of Defence Forces activities. A number of specific initiatives have been implemented to increase female participation in the Defence Forces including:
- The introduction of best practices in recruitment, such as the adjustment of physical standards for female applicants,
- Special consideration is paid to women as a target group for recruitment,
- A balanced composition between men and women on recruitment and selection boards,
- All promotions and career courses are open to both sexes on merit,
- A Gender Advisor has been appointed to promote gender equality policies and training within the Defence Forces.
The Defence Forces prides itself on providing a gender neutral working environment. Policies on equality are communicated to all ranks on an ongoing basis. The Military Authorities are alert and vigilant to this issue and are committed to addressing this matter in a continuing and proactive manner when it arises. However, a key impediment in achieving the target gender balance is the lack of female applicants relative to males.
I believe that there is a need to continue to develop and promote strategies that support increased female participation in the Defence Forces. To this end, in all recruitment campaigns for enlisted personnel and the Reserve, specific efforts are made to increase the number of female applicants. These efforts include visits to schools, media engagement including national and local radio, targeting sports clubs and the use of social media. I believe that a key issue in recruiting and retaining female personnel lies in societal perception and attitudes to female soldiers and officers. I am hopeful that through continued engagement and communication, this perception will change over time.
|
ARMY (PDF) |
|||
|
Rank |
Male |
Female |
Total |
|
Lt Gen |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
Maj Gen |
2 |
0 |
2 |
|
Brig Gen |
6 |
0 |
6 |
|
Col |
32 |
1 |
33 |
|
Lt Col |
104 |
2 |
106 |
|
Comdt |
226 |
31 |
257 |
|
Captain |
218 |
42 |
260 |
|
LT |
133 |
20 |
153 |
|
SM |
29 |
0 |
29 |
|
BQMS |
32 |
0 |
32 |
|
CS |
101 |
1 |
102 |
|
CQMS |
159 |
2 |
161 |
|
Sgt |
823 |
57 |
880 |
|
Cpl |
1170 |
114 |
1284 |
|
Pte |
3661 |
175 |
3836 |
|
Cadets |
96 |
9 |
105 |
|
Total |
6793 |
454 |
7247 |
|
AIR CORPS (PDF) |
|||
|
Rank |
Male |
Female |
Total |
|
Lt Gen |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Maj Gen |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Brig Gen |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
Col |
3 |
0 |
3 |
|
Lt Col |
12 |
0 |
12 |
|
Comdt |
31 |
2 |
33 |
|
Captain |
45 |
5 |
50 |
|
LT |
22 |
0 |
22 |
|
SM |
7 |
1 |
8 |
|
BQMS |
3 |
0 |
3 |
|
CS |
55 |
0 |
55 |
|
CQMS |
12 |
1 |
13 |
|
Sgt |
110 |
5 |
115 |
|
Cpl |
138 |
11 |
149 |
|
Pte |
218 |
10 |
228 |
|
Cadets |
25 |
1 |
26 |
|
Total |
682 |
36 |
718 |
|
NAVAL SERVICE (PDF) |
|||
|
Rank |
Male |
Female |
Total |
|
Lt Gen |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Maj Gen |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Brig Gen |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
Col |
2 |
0 |
2 |
|
Lt Col |
13 |
0 |
13 |
|
Comdt |
42 |
9 |
51 |
|
Captain |
36 |
13 |
49 |
|
LT |
32 |
2 |
34 |
|
SM |
6 |
0 |
6 |
|
BQMS |
7 |
0 |
7 |
|
CS |
74 |
0 |
74 |
|
CQMS |
15 |
0 |
15 |
|
Sgt |
170 |
7 |
177 |
|
Cpl |
123 |
8 |
131 |
|
Pte |
472 |
18 |
490 |
|
Cadets |
25 |
4 |
29 |
|
Total |
1018 |
61 |
1079 |
209. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if adequate updating and replacement of military aircraft is ongoing with particular reference to the needs for the Air Corps to meet best international standards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34024/16]
View answerMy priority as Minister with Responsibility for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service, is maintained to the greatest extent possible so as to enable the Defence Forces to carry out their roles as assigned by Government as set out on the White Paper on Defence.
In that regard, the acquisition of new equipment and equipment upgrades for the Defence Forces remains a clear focus for me. Going forward, the equipment priorities for the Army, Air Corps and the Naval Service will be considered in the context of the lifetime of the White Paper.
The future equipment priorities for the Air Corps are set out in the White Paper, which recognises that there are several new and or enhanced platforms to be procured for the Air Corps. Future capability requirements for the Air Corps are being considered as part of the rigorous capability development and equipment planning priorities process as envisaged in the White Paper. This will define ongoing and future equipment priorities having regard to the evolving security environment and available funding.
In the context of the Air Corps fleet, this will include the replacement of the Cessna fleet with three larger aircraft suitably equipped for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance tasks. The preparatory work for the tender competition has begun within the Defence organisation, and it is expected that the competition will be initiated by the end of this year. The two CASA 235s Maritime Patrol Aircraft are due for replacement in 2019. The CASAs will be replaced with consideration of their replacement with larger more capable aircraft to enhance maritime surveillance and to provide a greater degree of utility for transport and cargo carrying tasks.
The existing Pilatus PC9 aircraft are not due for replacement until 2025. It should be noted that a decision was made recently to replace a PC-9M aircraft which was written off following a fatal crash in 2009. The replacement PC-9M aircraft scheduled for delivery next year from Pilatus Aircraft in Switzerland at a cost of €5m plus VAT will bring the fleet up to 8 and will assist in a required increase in pilot training in the Air Corps.
210. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which the Naval Service equipment is upgraded and replaced on a regular basis including communications equipment and sea-going vessels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34025/16]
View answerThe acquisition of new equipment and equipment upgrades for the Defence Forces remains a focus for me as Minister with Responsibility for Defence. I am satisfied that the Defence Forces have a modern and effective range of equipment which is line with best international standards, as required to fulfil all roles that are assigned to them by Government.
The future equipment priorities for the Defence Forces, including the Naval Service, are being considered in the context of the lifetime of the White Paper on Defence.
The current Naval Service ship replacement programme has seen the delivery of three new Naval Service vessels in the past three years. In June 2016, agreement was reached with Babcock International for the provision of an additional ship for the Naval Service to be built in their facility in Appledore, Devon. This ship will be the same class as the three newest vessels, LÉ Samuel Beckett which was commissioned in 2014, LÉ James Joyce which was commissioned in 2015, and LÉ William Butler Yeats which was recently commissioned in October 2016. Delivery of the fourth ship is expected within two years. This ties in with the project planning process in place under the White Paper on Defence which will determine the Defence Organisation’s maritime capability requirements.
The White Paper also provides for the replacement of the current flagship, LÉ Eithne, by a multi-role vessel (MRV). LÉ Eithne was built in 1984. In addition, the two existing Coastal Patrol Vessels, LÉ Ciara and LÉ Orla are due for replacement in the coming years (also built in 1984). It is outlined in the White Paper that these ships will be replaced with vessels with countermine and counter IED capabilities.
In addition, the White Paper recognises the requirement to maintain and upgrade vessels having regard to emerging operational requirements and changes in technology, including communications equipment.
I am satisfied that the current provisions, together with the courses of action outlined in the White Paper, will ensure that the Naval Service are fully equipped to meet the roles placed on them.
211. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps receive training and equipment upgrades in line with best international practice, with particular reference to the need for a response in the event of a natural disaster or security threat; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34026/16]
View answerMy priority as Minister with Responsibility for Defence is to ensure that the operational capacity of the Defence Forces, including the availability of specialised equipment and trained personnel, is maintained to the greatest extent possible to enable the Defence Forces to carry out their roles both at home and overseas.
In accordance with the Framework for Major Emergency Management, primary responsibility for responding to emergencies caused by severe weather events, such as the storms and flooding, rests with the three designated principal response agencies, namely, the relevant Local Authority, An Garda Síochána, and the Health Service Executive. The Defence Forces provide the fullest possible assistance to the appropriate Lead Department in the event of a natural disaster or emergency situation in its Aid to the Civil Authority (ATCA) role.
At National level, representation on the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning, by both the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces, ensures the fullest coordination and cooperation in the event of an emergency and that the command structure within the Defence Forces is compatible with the requirements in this area.
Primary responsibility for the maintenance of law and order including the protection of the internal security of the State rests with An Garda Síochána. However, one of the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence (2000) is to provide Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) which, in practice means to assist An Garda Síochána when requested to do so.
A wide variety of military training activities are specifically designed to counter or respond to possible security emergencies and the Defence Forces hold regular coordination and liaison meetings with An Garda Síochána in relation to ATCP issues.
The full spectrum of Defence Forces personnel and equipment, commensurate with operational requirements, is available for deployments in response to natural disasters and security threats. In this regard, the Defence Forces hold a wide range of engineering and transport plant and equipment for military purposes. All such plant and equipment suitable for use in emergency situations is made available as the need arises.
I am satisfied that the Defence Forces are fully equipped and trained in line with best international practice to fulfil all roles that are assigned to them by Government. This includes the provision of relevant assistance as required in the event of a natural disaster or security threat.
212. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which he expects Irish troop deployment overseas in respect of EU or UN missions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34027/16]
View answerAs of 01 November 2016, Ireland is contributing 496 Defence Forces personnel to 11 different missions throughout the world, along with deployments to two standby Battlegroup Headquarters and a range of international organisations and National Representations.
The main overseas missions in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed are the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with 215 personnel, the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Syria with 135 personnel and the Naval Service humanitarian mission in the Mediterranean with 57 personnel.
Irish soldiers deployed to UNIFIL serve alongside Finnish Armed Forces as part of a joint Battalion which is currently under Finnish command. Ireland takes over command of the Battalion from Finland in November 2016 at which time an additional Company of some 150 personnel will be deployed to UNIFIL bringing Ireland’s contribution to this mission to 370 personnel.
The Department of Defence constantly reviews the deployment of Defence Forces personnel overseas. With regard to any future deployments of Defence Forces personnel overseas, Ireland receives requests, from time to time, in relation to participation in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis. When considering any particular request, the existence of realistic objectives and a clear mandate, which has the potential to contribute to a political solution, consideration of how the mission relates to the priorities of Irish foreign policy and the degree of risk involved are amongst the factors considered.
The Government’s White Paper on Defence includes a commitment to review Ireland's declared contribution to United Nations Peacekeeping Capability Readiness System (PCRS) (formerly UNSAS) and the EU Headline Goal; to include consideration of the potential deployability of the full range of Defence Forces' capabilities including Army, Air Corps and Naval Service capabilities and assets on peace support and crisis management operations. This review will commence in 2017.
The current contribution of some 496 Defence Forces personnel to overseas missions reflects the Government’s continued commitment to our responsibilities in the area of international peace and security.
Full details of all personnel currently serving overseas are as follows:
Members of the Permanent Defence Force Serving Overseas
As of 01 November 2016
|
1. UN MISSIONS |
|
|
(i) UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) HQ |
30 |
|
UNIFIL 53rd Infantry Group |
181 |
|
UNIFIL Sector West HQ |
4 |
|
(ii) UNTSO (United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation) Israel & Syria |
13 |
|
(iii) MINURSO (United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara) |
3 |
|
(iv) MONUSCO (United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo) |
4 |
|
(v) UNOCI (United Nations Mission in Ivory Coast) |
1 |
|
(vi) UNDOF (United Nations Disengagement Observer Force) HQ, |
6 |
|
Golan Heights, Syria |
|
|
UNDOF 54th Infantry Group |
129 |
|
TOTAL |
371 |
|
UN MANDATED MISSIONS |
|
|
(vii) EUFOR (EU-led Operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina) |
7 |
|
(viii) EUTM Mali (EU-Led Training Mission) |
18 |
|
(ix) KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo ) HQ |
12 |
|
2. OTHER DEPLOYMENTS |
|
|
Naval Service Humanitarian Mission in Mediterranean L.É. Samuel Beckett |
57 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING WITH UN MISSIONS |
465 |
|
ORGANISATION FOR SECURITY AND CO-OPERATION IN EUROPE (OSCE) |
|
|
(i) OSCE Mission to Bosnia & Herzegovina |
1 |
|
(ii) Staff Officer, High Level Planning Group, Vienna |
1 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING WITH OSCE |
2 |
|
3. EU MILITARY STAFF |
|
|
Brussels |
4 |
|
4. EU BATTLE GROUP |
|
|
German-led Battle Group 2016 - HQ, STRASBOURG |
10 |
|
UK-led Battle Group 2016, UK |
5 |
|
5. MILITARY REPRESENTATIVES/ADVISERS/STAFF |
|
|
(i) Military Adviser, Permanent Mission to UN, New York |
1 |
|
(ii) Military Adviser, Irish Delegation to OSCE, Vienna |
1 |
|
(iii) Military Representative to EU (Brussels) |
4 |
|
(iv) Liaison Officer of Ireland, NATO /PfP (Brussels) |
2 |
|
(v) EU OHQ Operation Althea, Mons, Belgium |
1 |
|
(vi) Irish Liaison Officer to SHAPE & Military Co-Op Division, Mons, Belgium |
1 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF DEFENCE FORCES PERSONNEL SERVING OVERSEAS |
496 |
213. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will provide a list of all contingent assets in his Department and in agencies under his Department where amounts can be owed but are not listed in the national accounts as an asset; if he will further provide a full breakdown of each category of contingent assets and the estimated amounts in the category; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34073/16]
View answerMy Department is not aware of any future events not under its control which may give rise to a contingent asset and as such does not have the information being sought by the Deputy.
