Written Answers Nos 552-573
552. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the status of national interim reports on the ABC programme by the Centre of Effective Centres; and when she expects those reports to be available for each centre. [40742/16]
View answerThe Area Based Childhood (ABC) Programme is a joint prevention and early intervention initiative led by my Department and The Atlantic Philanthropies. The ABC Programme commenced in 2013 and was co-funded for the period 2013 to 2017 in the amount of €29.7m. The programme is managed by the Centre for Effective Services and Pobal on behalf of the funders. The aim the programme is to test and evaluate prevention and early intervention approaches in areas of disadvantage in Ireland to improve outcomes for children, in particular children and families living in poverty. The focus of the work under the ABC Programme covers: Child Health & Development; Children’s Learning; Parenting; and Integrated Service Delivery.
There are 13 sites across Ireland participating in the ABC programme. Eight of these are based in Dublin: CDI Tallaght; Preparing for Life; Youngballymun; Clondalkin Behavioural Initiative; Better Finglas; Dublin Docklands and East Inner City; Grangegorman and Ballyfermot. The remaining five sites are located in Cork; Louth; Bray; Limerick and the Midlands.
Prior to the ABC Programme, the Prevention and Early Intervention Programme (PEIP) ran from 2007-2013 and it funded the following three organisations which transitioned into the ABC programme: Youngballymun, Childhood Development Initiative Tallaght, and the Preparing for Life Programme Darndale.
The Centre for Effective Services is responsible for designing and managing the evaluation of the ABC Programme. It is guided and advised in the planning and implementation of the evaluation by the Expert Advisory Group (EAG).
The three strands to the evaluation are:
1. Outcomes evaluation to assess the achievement of child and parent outcomes across the ABC Programme
2. Implementation evaluation to assess the achievement of implementation outcomes and explore the processes and drivers of implementation
3. Cost analysis evaluation for each Area and suite of services and associated activities
The Centre for Effective Services expects that draft outcome reports for each area will be issued for comment by the end of 2016. It also expects to finalise the interim area-specific outcome reports by the end of February 2017 and the national outcomes report by the end of March 2017.
The Government is fully committed to ensuring that learning from all sites funded under the ABC programme will inform other services and supports for children in the area of prevention and early intervention. Such an approach would offer a greater reach, in scope and depth, which will in turn enhance outcomes for children throughout the country. As there is effective work being done on a range of themes across all 13 ABC sites, a key focus over the next year will be to determine the high-impact programmes and provision across these areas so that a more strategic approach can be taken to mainstreaming such learning.
553. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if the second annual report under the Better Outcomes, Brighter Futures has been completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40743/16]
View answerThe second annual report on Better Outcomes, Brighter Futures: the National Policy Framework for Children and Young People (2014-2020) was published in August 2016, and is available to the public on my Department’s website. This covers implementation for the second year of the framework, April 2015 to 2016.
My Department has taken an innovative approach to development of the annual reports, which include a spread and depth of perspectives, and ensures a proactive approach to communications with the community and voluntary sector, for example by presenting the findings at an annual seminar organised by the Children’s Rights Alliance.
The report includes inputs from the chairs of key groups in the implementation infrastructure: the Children and Young People’s Policy Consortium, the Advisory Council, the Children and Young People’s Services Committees National Steering Group and the Sponsors Group.
It also contains information on the development of an outcome indicator set, progress on commitments, development of cross-sectoral priorities, and details of work across government for children and young people.
Details of the work of the groups in the implementation infrastructure is also included, as well as information on the constituent strategies: The National Strategy on Children and Young People’s Participation in Decision Making, the National Youth Strategy, and development of the Early Years Strategy.
The first annual report is also available on my Department’s website, as well as the implementation plan for Better Outcomes, Brighter Futures and the workplan for the Advisory Council.
554. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the capitation grants that have been awarded to providers of ECCE services, broken down by month and county, in tabular form. [40745/16]
View answerThe detailed information sought by the Deputy is not available in my Department in the format requested. It is not possible to break this information down by month or calendar year but it can instead be provided by programme year. ECCE Capitation payments had been administered by my Department prior to September 2016 and by Pobal since September 2016. Officials in my Department are compiling this information from records held prior to September 2016 and I have requested Pobal to provide the information which they possess from September 2016. This information will be supplied to the Deputy in no later than 10 working days. I have asked my officials follow up on this to ensure delivery as a matter of urgency.
555. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if the new child care regulations have been published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40746/16]
View answerThe Childcare Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations were published on 4 May 2016 and commenced on 30 June 2016.
556. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the status of the implementation of the Children First Act; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40748/16]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the Children First Act 2015 was signed into law on 19 November 2015, in accordance with a key commitment in the Programme for Government, and provides for, inter alia -
- mandatory reporting by key professionals,
- mandated assisting,
- comprehensive risk assessment and preparation of Child Safeguarding Statements by services for children, and
- the establishment of the Children First Interdepartmental Implementation Group on a statutory basis.
A number of provisions of the Act have already been commenced as follows:
(i) Sections 1 to 5 (Part I) and section 28 (Part V) of the Act were commenced on 11 December 2015. Sections 1 to 5 are standard provisions in relation to title, citation, regulations, definitions etc. Section 28 relates to corporal punishment and removes the common law defence of reasonable chastisement in relation to same.
(ii) Section 18 (Part III) and Sections 20-26 (Part IV) were commenced on 1 May 2016. Section 18 of the Act is a technical amendment to ensure that the Child and Family Agency is a specified body for purposes of the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Act 2012. Sections 20-26 deal with establishing the Children First Interdepartmental Implementation Group (CFIDG) on a statutory basis and expanding the Group to include all Government Departments.
As the Act imposes obligations on certain individuals working with children and on relevant service providers, I think it is vital that all individuals and sectors are fully prepared and ready to implement the legislation before it is commenced. Therefore, in relation to those provisions of the Act which have not yet been commenced, I have recently signed off on a proposal for phased and structured preparations for implementation which will allow for full commencement of the Act by end December, 2017. I have brought forward this date from end February 2018, as previously stated in my response to PQ 33699-16 of 8 November 2016. These provisions include those related to mandated reporting of child abuse, mandated assisting and the preparation of Child Safeguarding Statements by organisations providing relevant services to children.
The phased implementation timetable will also allow Tusla to undertake the significant preparatory work required to enable it to fully meet its obligations under the legislation. This will include ensuring that the appropriate internal systems are in place to deal with the intake of mandated reports by Tusla and that a suite of resources is available to support and assist all sectors in implementing the legislation. My Department is working closely with Tusla in relation to making available basic Children First training, information and resource materials.
In the meantime, my Department will continue to work closely with the Statutory Children First Inter-Departmental Implementation Group, which includes all Government Departments, Tusla, an Garda Síochána and the HSE, who will take a key role in ensuring that all necessary preparations and supports are in place for those who will acquire legal obligations under the Act.
557. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of children taken into State care, by county, by the Child and Family Agency, Tusla in the years in each of the years 2014, 2015 and 2016 to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40900/16]
View answerThe following table shows a breakdown of the number of children in care by area at the end of 2014, 2015 and at the end of September 2016:
|
Area |
2014 |
2015 |
2016 (end Sept) |
|
Cork |
928 |
899 |
866 |
|
Dublin North City |
626 |
625 |
609 |
|
Mid West |
592 |
605 |
596 |
|
Dublin North |
306 |
331 |
327 |
|
Waterford Wexford |
497 |
447 |
436 |
|
Galway/Roscommon |
484 |
407 |
436 |
|
Kerry |
146 |
145 |
154 |
|
Dublin South Central |
407 |
393 |
394 |
|
Dublin South West/ Kildare/West Wicklow |
487 |
461 |
446 |
|
Carlow/Kilkenny/South Tipperary |
379 |
382 |
376 |
|
Midlands |
340 |
371 |
387 |
|
Cavan/Monaghan |
181 |
170 |
161 |
|
Louth/Meath |
383 |
390 |
398 |
|
Dublin South East/Wicklow |
296 |
306 |
294 |
|
Donegal |
190 |
210 |
209 |
|
Mayo |
122 |
136 |
134 |
|
Sligo/Leitrim/West Cavan |
90 |
110 |
106 |
|
National |
6,454 |
6,388 |
6,329 |
Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, has a statutory duty under the Child Care Act 1991 to promote the welfare of children who are not receiving adequate care and protection and if, necessary, to receive a child into the care of the State. Regulations govern the placement of children in care which provide, inter alia, for the welfare of the child, the care practices, care records, accommodation and safety precautions. Under the Child Care Regulations, 1995 a care plan for each child who is received into care is required.
The latest figures from Tusla indicate that, at the end of September 2016, there were 6,329 children in care. Of these, over 93% were in foster care, either with relatives or a general foster placement and 5% were in a general residential placement.
558. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the capital funding available towards the provision of new child care facilities or the upgrading of existing facilities in 2017; the level of such funding available for the private sector and the community sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40977/16]
View answerCapital funding of €4.5m in respect of the Childcare Sector was made available in Budget 2017 and I intend to bring forward proposals for a grant funding scheme to access this funding in early 2017. I intend that this funding will be available to childcare services seeking to increase the capacity, quality and/or efficiency of their services.
Over 1,000 services received capital funding under the 2016 capital programme and one of my first decisions as Minister was to provide a €2.5M increase in the funding allocation for this programme, enabling all qualifying applications to be fully funded. The grants that were awarded this year were used to build / fit out / refurbish rooms or extensions to childcare facilities, make alterations to buildings or to buy additional play equipment (to a maximum of €5,000) to facilitate an increase in childcare places. I am pleased that this funding has been fully utilised and a significant number of new childcare places will be available to children entering the ECCE programme in January 2017 as a result.
559. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which defence discussions within the EU are fragmenting into bilateral and mini-multilateral frameworks; and his views on the extent to which these conversations are taking place outside formal European structures. [40578/16]
View answerDiscussions within the EU, in the area of defence and security take place in the context of the Common Security and Defence Policy for which decisions require the unanimous approval of all member States. These discussions take place at regular meetings of Heads of State and Government, at Ministerial level meetings and through Council preparatory bodies. It is not unusual for member States in bi-lateral or multilateral formations to discuss priority areas where they would hold views in common, often resulting in joint papers that set out their priorities for consideration as part of discussions on future developments in the area of security and defence. These engagements are informal in nature and do not prejudice the formal decision making processes that exist.
Within the EU, it is accepted that defence and security is a national competence and that any decisions require unanimity. Ireland continues to have a strong and equal voice on defence issues within the EU institutions. The treaties require that the EU respects the specific and different policies of Member States in the area of security and defence and that has not changed.
560. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the interdepartmental preparations his Department is participating in to ensure businesses here are well positioned to participate in new defence-related research funding schemes being set up by the European Commission. [40579/16]
View answerIn December 2013, the European Council, in its conclusions in relation to the Common Security and Defence Policy, highlighted that “Europe needs a more integrated, sustainable, innovative and competitive defence technological and industrial base (EDTIB) to develop and sustain defence capabilities. This can also enhance its strategic autonomy and its ability to act with partners”.
For many member States, the Defence sector is a significant contributor to jobs, growth and innovation. In the EU the Defence industry makes an economic contribution of €100 billion with 1.5 million direct and indirect employees. While Ireland does not have a defence industry, we do however have particular strengths in the area of dual use technologies and civil commercial technologies which can support defence capability and contribute to the Irish economy. These are the industries that need to be positioned to avail of research funding opportunities that will arise under the Preparatory Action and under the proposed European Defence Research Programme put forward by the Commission under the European Defence Action Plan.
The Preparatory Action on CSDP-related research is seen as a test mechanism for the proposed Defence Research Programme. The objectives of the Preparatory Action are to stimulate investment in defence Research and Technology, (R&T) across Europe and generate the collaborative Research and Technology that will be required to support future capabilities. A funding budget of €90m has been proposed for the period 2017-2020 with €25m of this already approved by the European Parliament for 2017. The call for proposals under the Preparatory Action is expected in early 2017 and my Department is liaising with Enterprise Ireland (EI) and the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation in relation to opportunities for Irish companies in this call.
There is also ongoing communication with EI in relation to collaborative research opportunities that may arise for the Defence Forces with industry and research institutes. In July 2011, the Government approved arrangements whereby EI would support the Department of Defence and Defence Forces capability development through engagement with Irish-based enterprise and research institutes on the use and application of innovative civilian technologies in the military sphere.
The White Paper on Defence which was published in 2015, reaffirms the commitment to the Defence Enterprise Initiative.
561. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if his Department has a view on supporting proposals to exclude defence spending from the calculation of excess deficit rules. [40580/16]
View answerAs a member of the European Union, Ireland is subject to the Stability and Growth Pact (SGP) in place since 1999. Responsibility for policy approaches to fiscal rules is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Finance. It should be noted that Defence expenditure is not specifically referenced under the fiscal rules. Any scope for additional expenditure, under the existing parameters, applies equally to all sectors. My Department will ensure that any developments at EU level are kept under review. Any new approach must however take cognisance of the realities of the public finances and the long-term national interest.
562. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the way in which his Department proposes to fulfill the large procurement projects such as APCs, aircraft and naval vessels, the needs for which are clearly outlined in the White Paper but for which no specific budgetary provision has yet been made. [40581/16]
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. In this regard, Budget 2017 secured a capital spending allocation of €74 million, representing an increase of €7 million on the 2017 Defence allocation contained in the 2016-21 capital investment programme. This allocation will facilitate the investment necessary to ensure that the Defence Forces have the equipment and infrastructure to deliver on all their roles as set out in the White Paper.
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 over the period of the White Paper on Defence as part of the capability development and equipment planning priorities planning process.
As a result of the White Paper, a detailed Capability Development Plan is being developed which is building on the work completed as part of the White Paper process. This Capability Development Plan will dovetail with the work of identifying and agreeing a new Equipment Development Plan and the required funding requirements for upgrade programmes and for new equipment projects that will be implemented for the Defence Forces.
The Army will continue to retain all-arms conventional military capabilities, and the principal aim over the period of the White Paper will be to replace and upgrade, as required, existing capabilities in order to retain a flexible response for a wide range of operational requirements both at home and overseas. There will be a focus on the essential force protection provided by armoured vehicles and the most cost effective option of upgrading or replacing the current fleet will be pursued. A small number of armoured logistical and utility vehicles will be procured for force protection.
The Air Corps will see the Cessna fleet replaced with three larger aircraft suitably equipped for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance tasks. The aircraft specification is currently being prepared and it is expected that the tender competition will be initiated and advertised on the e-tenders website in the near future. 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 current Naval Service Ship replacement programme has already seen the replacement of three Naval Service vessels. The White Paper underpins the ongoing replacement of the Naval Service fleet. An agreement was recently reached for the provision of an additional ship for the Naval Service to be built to the same specifications as the three newest vessels. Future Naval Service capabilities are being planned as part of the White Paper project planning process which will determine the Defence Organisation’s maritime capability requirements.
Overall, the Defence capital envelope for the period 2017-2021 allocated under the Capital Spending Plan is €392m. The capital funding allocated will play a vital role in ensuring that the priorities identified in the White Paper can be met. The duration of this capital funding plan is particularly significant in allowing for strategic medium-term planning so critical in the Defence environment which will allow for significant investments in equipment over the coming years
563. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the status of Ireland’s participation in UNDOF and the UN decision to reoccupy the area of separation; the strategic concerns that exist for Irish deployment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40582/16]
View answerThe United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) was established on 31 May 1974 by the United Nations Security Council Resolution 350 (1974), following the agreed disengagement of the Israeli and Syrian forces in the Golan Heights in May 1974. Since 1974, the mandate of UNDOF has been renewed every six months, most recently renewed in June 2016 until 31 December 2016 under UNSCR 2294 (2016). A contingent of the Permanent Defence Force has been deployed to the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) on the Golan Heights since 2013. The current Irish contingent, the 54th Infantry Group, comprising 130 personnel, is based in Camp Ziouani on the Israeli side of the Area of Separation. It operates in the role of a Quick Reaction Force, which is on standby to assist with on-going operations within the UNDOF Area of Responsibility. Six (6) other Defence Forces personnel are also deployed in UNDOF Headquarters, five (5) in Camp Ziouani and one in Yafour.
Since its temporary relocation from a number of positions in September 2014 and pending the time when UNDOF returns fully to the area of separation, UNDOF has, in line with its mandate from UNSCR 350 continued to maintain credible presence in the Golan and use its best efforts to implement its mandate. UNDOF continues to engage with the parties on practical arrangements to allow the Force to continue to maintain the ceasefire, monitor, verify and report on violations of the Disengagement of Forces Agreement and exercise its critical liaison functions with the parties in order to implement its mandate. On 14 November 2016, UNDOF completed the initial phase of the incremental return of the mission to Camp Faouar on the Syrian side of the Area of Separation where Fijian and Nepalese troops are now based.
The Irish 54th Infantry Group is carrying out its normal operations. As with all missions, the UNDOF mission is kept under ongoing review, taking into account the area of operation and the wider region.
564. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the figures for the strength of the Permanent Defence Force with regard to all three services and all ranks; the gender breakdown of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40583/16]
View answerThe Government is committed to maintaining the stabilised strength of the Permanent Defence Force at 9,500 personnel, comprising of 7,520 Army, 886 Air Corps and 1,094 Naval Service as stated in the 2015 White Paper on Defence. I am advised by the Military Authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force, at 31 October 2016, the latest date for which details are available, was 9,110. As there is significant turnover of personnel in the Permanent Defence Force, targeted recruitment continues to take place so as to maintain the agreed strength levels. The current General Service recruitment campaign commenced in April 2016.
The tabular statements indicate the strength of the Permanent Defence Force as of 31 October across all three services and ranks, broken down by gender. The figures provided are for whole time equivalent posts.
With the support of the Chief of Staff and within the resources available, it is intended to retain the capacity of the Defence Forces to operate effectively across all roles and to undertake the tasks laid down by Government both at home and overseas.
Army
|
Rank |
Male |
Female |
Total |
|
Lieutenant General |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
Major General |
2 |
0 |
2 |
|
Brigadier General |
6 |
0 |
6 |
|
Colonel |
31 |
1 |
32 |
|
Lieutenant Colonel |
103 |
2 |
105 |
|
Commandant |
225 |
32 |
257 |
|
Captain |
213 |
41 |
254 |
|
Lieutenant |
132 |
20 |
152 |
|
Sergeant Major |
29 |
0 |
29 |
|
Battalion Quartermaster Sergeant |
32 |
0 |
32 |
|
Company Sergeant |
99 |
1 |
100 |
|
Company Quartermaster Sergeant |
157 |
3 |
160 |
|
Sergeant |
818 |
54 |
872 |
|
Corporal |
1175 |
114 |
1289 |
|
Private |
3742 |
189 |
3831 |
|
Cadets |
95 |
14 |
109 |
|
Total |
6860 |
471 |
7331 |
Air Corps
|
Rank |
Male |
Female |
Total |
|
Brigadier General |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
Colonel |
3 |
0 |
3 |
|
Lieutenant Colonel |
12 |
0 |
12 |
|
Commandant |
31 |
2 |
33 |
|
Captain |
45 |
5 |
50 |
|
Lieutenant |
22 |
0 |
22 |
|
Sergeant Major |
7 |
1 |
8 |
|
Battalion Quartermaster Sergeant |
3 |
0 |
3 |
|
Company Sergeant |
55 |
0 |
55 |
|
Company Quartermaster Sergeant |
12 |
1 |
13 |
|
Sergeant |
108 |
6 |
114 |
|
Corporal |
140 |
8 |
148 |
|
Private |
216 |
9 |
225 |
|
Cadets |
25 |
1 |
26 |
|
Total |
680 |
33 |
713 |
Naval Service
|
Rank |
Male |
Female |
Total |
|
Brigadier General |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
Colonel |
2 |
0 |
2 |
|
Lieutenant Colonel |
13 |
0 |
13 |
|
Commandant |
42 |
9 |
51 |
|
Captain |
36 |
13 |
49 |
|
Lieutenant |
3 1 |
3 |
34 |
|
Sergeant Major |
6 |
0 |
6 |
|
Battalion Quartermaster Sergeant |
7 |
0 |
7 |
|
Company Sergeant |
7 2 |
0 |
7 2 |
|
Company Quartermaster Sergeant |
15 |
0 |
15 |
|
Sergeant |
170 |
7 |
177 |
|
Corporal |
12 1 |
8 |
1 29 |
|
Private |
4 63 |
18 |
4 81 |
|
Cadets |
2 7 |
2 |
29 |
|
Total |
10 06 |
6 0 |
10 66 |
565. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the figures for the strength of the Defence Forces Reserve with regard to all three services and all ranks; the gender breakdown of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40584/16]
View answerAs of 31 October 2016, the latest date for which figures are available, the effective strength of the Reserve Defence Force was 2,092, of which 281 are female personnel. Of the 2,092 personnel, 1,968 (258 females) are Army Reservists and 124 (23 females) are Naval Service Reservists. The following table sets out the effective strength of the Reserve Defence Force as of 31 October 2016 broken down by rank and gender of both Army and Naval Service Reservists:
|
RANK |
ARMY RESERVISTS (overall numbers) |
(Female Army Res. personnel) |
NAVAL SERVICE RESERVISTS (overall numbers) |
(Female NS Res. Personnel) |
TOTAL RDF |
Total Female RDF Personnel |
|
Lt.Colonel |
4 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
0 |
|
Comdt |
54 |
2 |
4 |
0 |
58 |
2 |
|
Captain |
46 |
1 |
5 |
0 |
51 |
1 |
|
Lieutenant |
193 |
30 |
8 |
1 |
201 |
31 |
|
Sgt. Major |
3 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
0 |
|
BQMS |
6 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
7 |
0 |
|
CS |
49 |
0 |
8 |
0 |
57 |
0 |
|
CQMS |
63 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
63 |
3 |
|
Sergeant |
275 |
19 |
10 |
0 |
285 |
19 |
|
Corporal |
372 |
69 |
22 |
4 |
394 |
73 |
|
Privates |
903 |
134 |
66 |
18 |
969 |
152 |
|
1968 |
258 |
124 |
23 |
2092 |
281 |
For the sake of completeness , the following table sets out the current strength figures of the First Line Reserve, as of 31 October 2016, broken down by rank:
|
FORMATION |
OFFICER |
NCO |
PTE |
TOTAL |
|
ARMY |
25 |
10 |
109 |
144 |
|
AIR CORPS |
6 |
4 |
18 |
28 |
|
NAVAL SERVICE |
22 |
4 |
50 |
76 |
|
TOTAL |
53 |
18 |
177 |
248 |
The White Paper on Defence (2015) sets out an overall establishment figure of 4,169 for the RDF. Recruitment campaigns are conducted on an annual ongoing basis. The White Paper confirms that the primary role of the Reserve is to augment the PDF in times of crisis and to participate in ceremonial events. The implementation of measures set out in the 2015 White Paper will provide opportunities for certain members of the RDF to undertake new duties. The intention is that this and other White Paper initiatives will be a motivating factor in encouraging more people to join the Reserve.
I believe that the Reserve Defence Force is an important asset to the State. I value the contribution of all of its members who volunteer their time and service so willingly and I am fully committed to its ongoing and future development.
566. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of additional recruits the Defence Forces have taken on to date in 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40585/16]
View answerThe Government is committed to maintaining the stabilised strength of the Permanent Defence Force at 9,500 personnel, comprising of 7,520 Army, 886 Air Corps and 1,094 Naval Service as stated in the 2015 White Paper on Defence. I am advised by the Military Authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force, at 31 October 2016, was 9,110, comprising 7,331 Army, 713 Air Corps and 1,066 Naval Service. These figures exclude 72 personnel who are on secondment/career break.
The manpower requirement of the Defence Forces is monitored on an ongoing basis in accordance with the operational requirements of each of the three services. As there is significant turnover of personnel in the Permanent Defence Force targeted recruitment has been and is currently taking place so as to maintain the agreed strength levels.
I am advised by the Military Authorities that, to date in 2016, a total of 548 General Service Recruits have been enlisted into the Permanent Defence Force, of which 501 Recruits have been enlisted to the Army and 47 Recruits have been enlisted to the Naval Service. In addition, 98 Cadets have been inducted following the 2016 Cadetship Competitions.
I am further advised that 64 Reserve Defence Force Recruits have been enlisted to date in 2016. A recruitment campaign for the Reserve Defence Force is currently underway and further details are available on www.military.ie
With the support of the Chief of Staff and within the resources available, it is intended to retain the capacity of the Defence Forces to operate effectively across all roles and to undertake the tasks laid down by Government both at home and overseas.
567. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will report on the most recent meeting of EU defence Ministers. [40586/16]
View answerI attended the recent joint Foreign Affairs and Defence Council on the 14 November along with my colleague Minister Dara Murphy, who represented Minister Flanagan at the meeting.
Discussions took place on the implementation of the EU Global Strategy in the area of Security and Defence. The High Representative presented her proposed Implementation Plan for consideration by Ministers to give effect to the security and defence aspects of the EU Global Strategy. Council Conclusions were adopted Ministers, drawing on the HRVP proposals, and the Council determined a Level of Ambition in support of three strategic priorities identified in the EU Global Strategy:
- responding to external conflicts and crises,
- building the capacities of partners, and
- protecting the Union and its citizens.
The Council:
- Determined that the EU needs to pursue an integrated approach linking up different EU instruments in a coordinated way, building on the EU's Comprehensive Approach and promoting civil-military cooperation.
- Stressed that the level of ambition needs to be underpinned by the necessary financial coverage
- Underlined that the EU will continue to act in cooperation with partners, notably the United Nations, NATO, the OSCE and the African Union, with due respect for the autonomy of EU decision-making and the principle of inclusiveness.
The Council also prioritised actions to implement the Level of Ambition through adjusting tools and financing, Permanent Structured Co-operation (PESCO) and taking forward CSDP Partnerships.
There was also an exchange of views on EU-NATO Cooperation following the recent Joint Declaration at the Warsaw Summit and on ongoing Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions and operations with a focus on the Mediterranean Naval CSDP mission, 'Operation Sophia' and CSDP missions in the Sahel.
In addition Ministers were presented with an outline of the Commission's European Defence Action Plan (EDAP). This plan was subsequently published by the Commission on 30 November 2016.
568. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of suspect devices that the army disposal unit has dealt with, by date in 2016, by county, in tabular form. [40587/16]
View answerThe Department of Justice and Equality and An Garda Síochána have primary responsibility for the internal security of the State. Among the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence is the provision of Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) which, in practice, means to assist An Garda Síochána when requested to do so.
The Defence Forces Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams respond when a request for assistance is made by An Garda Síochána in dealing with a suspect device. The number of EOD callouts, which include viable devices, hoaxes, false alarms, post-blast analysis and the removal of unstable chemicals in laboratories dealt with up to 13 December 2016, by county, are set out in the following table:
|
County |
Number of EOD Callouts |
|
Carlow |
1 |
|
Cavan |
3 |
|
Clare |
1 |
|
Cork |
12 |
|
Donegal |
3 |
|
Dublin |
30 |
|
Galway |
6 |
|
Kildare |
4 |
|
Kilkenny |
2 |
|
Laois |
3 |
|
Leitrim |
1 |
|
Limerick |
2 |
|
Louth |
3 |
|
Mayo |
3 |
|
Meath |
1 |
|
Monaghan |
1 |
|
Roscommon |
1 |
|
Sligo |
3 |
|
Tipperary |
2 |
|
Waterford |
4 |
|
Westmeath |
3 |
|
Wexford |
1 |
|
Wicklow |
2 |
|
Total |
92 |
569. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of days spent at sea by members of the Naval Service Reserve in 2015 and to date in 2016. [40588/16]
View answerThe number of days spent at sea by members of the Naval Service Reserve in 2015 and to date in 2016 is as follows:
|
Year |
Naval Service Reserve day at sea |
|
2015 |
86 |
|
2016 (to date) |
150 |
570. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence when the next meeting of EU defence Ministers will take place; the agenda for same if decided; his priorities for it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40589/16]
View answerThe next expected meeting of Defence Ministers is the informal meeting to be hosted by Malta as part of their Presidency of the EU Council scheduled to take place on 27 and 28 April, 2017. The agenda will not be issued until closer to the date but it is anticipated that discussions will revolve around progress on recent FAC Council Conclusions on Implementing the EUGS on Security and Defence, recent Council Conclusions on Implementation of the EU/NATO Joint Declaration as well as the Commission's European Defence Action Plan (EDAP). Discussions can also be anticipated on ongoing Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) military operations. Priorities for the meeting will be determined on foot of receipt of the formal agenda and issues ongoing at that time.
571. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the total use his Department has made of the Government jet since coming into office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40678/16]
View answer572. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the total use his Department has made of the Government jet per annum from March 2011 to February 2016, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40695/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 571 and 572 together.
Details of usage by the Department of Defence of the Ministerial Air Transport Service (MATS) from March 2011 to the end of November 2016 are set out in the tabular statement below. Some of these flights were shared with other Government Departments.
Gulfstream IV
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
30/11/2011 |
30/11/2011 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
09/03/2013 |
12/03/2013 |
390 |
Baldonnel - Beirut - Larnaca - Tel Aviv - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
25/11/2013 |
29/11/2013 |
810 |
Baldonnel - Beirut - Amman - Tel Aviv - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
15/06/2014 |
16/06/2014 |
650 |
Baldonnel - Beirut - Baldonnel |
Taoiseach & Defence / MOS Defence |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
30/11/2011 |
30/11/2011 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
09/03/2013 |
12/03/2013 |
390 |
Baldonnel - Beirut - Larnaca - Tel Aviv - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
25/11/2013 |
29/11/2013 |
810 |
Baldonnel - Beirut - Amman - Tel Aviv - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
15/06/2014 |
16/06/2014 |
650 |
Baldonnel - Beirut - Baldonnel |
Taoiseach & Defence / MOS Defence |
Lear Jet 45
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
22/09/2011 |
23/09/2011 |
360 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Wroclaw - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Defence / Justice & Equality |
|
18/11/2012 |
19/11/2012 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
16/02/2013 |
16/02/2013 |
120 |
Baldonnel - Northolt - Baldonnel |
Taoiseach / Defence / MOS Justice |
|
22/04/2013 |
23/04/2013 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
20/06/2013 |
20/06/2013 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
19/11/2013 |
19/11/2013 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Defence / MOS European Affairs |
|
20/02/2014 |
21/02/2014 |
560 |
Baldonnel - Rimini - Athens - Rimini - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
15/04/2014 |
15/04/2014 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
04/09/2014 |
04/09/2014 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Cardiff - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
04/12/2014 |
07/12/2014 |
855 |
Baldonnel - Naples - Beirut - Larnaca - Tel Aviv - Naples - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
18/02/2015 |
19/02/2015 |
395 |
Baldonnel - Riga - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
18/05/2015 |
18/05/2015 |
190 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs & Trade / Defence / Children & Youth Affairs |
|
06/07/2015 |
07/07/2015 |
525 |
Dublin - Marseille - Valetta - Marseille - Baldonnel |
Defence / Justice, Equality & Reform / MOS Foreign Affairs & Trade |
The Deputy may wish to note that information relating to the MATS is published on the Department of Defence website and is updated on a monthly basis.
573. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the gender balances on each of the State boards under his remit. [40724/16]
View answerThe only State body currently under the aegis of the Department of Defence is the Army Pensions Board. The Army Pensions Board is an independent statutory body established under the Army Pensions Act 1927. The Act specifies that the Board shall consist of a chairman and two ordinary members. The two ordinary members must be qualified medical practitioners of whom one must be an officer of the Army Medical Corps. The chairman and the non military ordinary member are appointed by the Minister for Defence with the concurrence of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform. The non military ordinary member is female which is one third of the Board. The Army Medical Corps ordinary member is appointed by the Minister for Defence on the recommendation of the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces.
