Martin Heydon
Question:81. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has considered the ratification of the Antarctic Treaty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3043/17]
View answerInternational Agreements
Questions (81)
Written answers
The question of Ireland’s ratification of the Antarctic Treaty and related agreements comprising the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS) has been examined in some detail by the Government and Offices concerned.
While the objectives and achievements of the ATS are of considerable importance and the commitment of the signatories is commendable, the direct benefits to Ireland of ratification would be relatively minor. Preparation for ratification by Ireland would impose substantial administrative burdens on several Government Departments, which could not be supported at the present time. In the case of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade this would include the co-ordination of the national approach to accession negotiations via the Inter-Departmental Group on the Antarctic Treaty, the preparation and submission of the relevant Memorandum to Government and the domestic legislation necessary for ratification. Subsequent to ratification, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade would have responsibility for coordinating the servicing of any meetings of States Parties or related events and conferences.
Government Departments, including my own, must concentrate available resources on core business and areas of priority national interest. At this time, they are not in a position to assume the administrative burden associated with the ATS ratification and ensuing treaty obligations.
Northern Ireland
Questions (82)
Joan Burton
Question:82. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the contact he has had with the Northern Ireland Secretary of State, Mr. James Brokenshire MP, since the resignation of the Northern Ireland deputy First Minister, Mr. Martin McGuinness. [1815/17]
View answerWritten answers
I have been in regular contact with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, James Brokenshire MP, as part of the Government’s intensified engagement in recent weeks on the political situation in Northern Ireland. I met in Belfast with the Secretary of State on 14 December, 12 January and 19 January. We have also spoken by phone on a number of occasions.
It was clear, immediately following the resignation of the deputy First Minister, that the prospect of a resolution ahead of the triggering of an Assembly election was slim. However both Governments, in their capacity as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, made full use of the narrow window available to ensure that any avenues for resolution between the parties prior to an election were fully explored.
In the event, an Assembly election has been triggered and it is important to emphasise that this eventuality is one covered by the legislation governing the devolved institutions in Northern Ireland. When parties in an administration cannot agree, an election is the consequence and the outcome of that is now for the electorate in Northern Ireland to determine.
The Secretary of State and I have agreed that both Governments should continue to work closely together in the weeks to come, looking ahead to the post-election period, when a new power-sharing Executive will need to be formed. We have also urged the parties to approach the election campaign in calm and respectful terms, conscious that polarising rhetoric and frayed relationships will damage the prospects of forming an Executive after the votes have been counted.
We must all be mindful that effective devolved Government, underpinned by a genuine spirit of partnership, is what the people of Northern Ireland voted for in 1998 and what they expect their politicians to deliver.
After the election, it will therefore fall to the parties to form a power-sharing Executive and this will require the parties to find a way forward on issues which contributed to the calling of the election. The Government is of course always ready to support and assist the parties in any way we can. Our commitment as a co-guarantor of the Agreement is a constant one – in good times and bad.
The Government will continue to work with the British Government and the political parties to support the fulfilment of the full promise of that Agreement and to advance political stability, reconciliation and economic prosperity in Northern Ireland.
Question No. 83 answered with Question No. 51.
Question No. 84 answered with Question No. 74.
Humanitarian Aid Provision
Questions (85)
Seán Crowe
Question:85. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to increase humanitarian funding for Syria in 2017; his views on the ongoing war and humanitarian crisis in Syria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3050/17]
View answerWritten answers
We remain deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis facing the Syrian people. Despite the cessation of hostilities since 30 December 2016, the current situation remains extremely fragile and the humanitarian situation dire for many Syrians. Minister Flanagan and I repeatedly raised our concerns about the conflict and humanitarian crisis in Syria during 2016. We will continue to do so, at all levels, until the humanitarian situation of the Syrian people improves.
The search for a sustainable peaceful resolution of the Syrian conflict remains a top foreign policy priority for Ireland and our EU partners. Ireland will continue to support the efforts of the UN Security Council and the EU to end to the conflict. All of our diplomatic and humanitarian actions are in support of a free and peaceful Syria.
Civilians continue to be gravely at risk and humanitarian access is still severely constrained in Syria. Humanitarian access and the protection of civilians are binding legal obligations for all parties and must be observed.
Since 2012, Ireland has provided more than €67 million in humanitarian assistance to Syria and the region, including more than €25 million during 2016. This is Ireland’s largest ever response to any humanitarian crisis. Ireland also supports the EU’s humanitarian response in Syria, which amounted to €445 million in 2016. The EU and its Member States are collectively the lead provider of international aid to the people of Syria.
We are continuing to monitor the situation closely, and are ready to provide further assistance in support of the Syrian people as needed. I anticipate that the level of our humanitarian support to Syria at least be maintained during 2017.
Question No. 86 answered with Question No. 48.
Overseas Development Aid Provision
Questions (87)
Darragh O'Brien
Question:87. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will consider developing a roadmap to achieve the 0.7% of GDP ODA target; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3040/17]
View answerWritten answers
The Government is strongly committed to Ireland’s overseas aid programme, and to its place at the heart of our foreign policy. Our policy for international development, “One World, One Future”, clearly articulates our commitment to the UN target of providing 0.7% of Gross National Product (GNP) in Official Development Assistance (ODA), as economic conditions allow.
In the current Programme for Government we have set out our ambition to make progress towards the UN target as resources permit. Progress needs to be made in a sustainable and manageable way, which continues to strengthen Ireland's recognised role as a reliable and effective partner in providing humanitarian assistance and contributing to the fight to end global poverty and hunger.
During the very difficult economic circumstances of recent years, the Government managed to stabilise and largely protect allocations to ODA. Since 2011 we have made annual contributions in excess of €600 million and have cumulatively allocated over of €4.5 billion in the period 2011 to 2017. This represents a remarkable commitment of public funds towards the fight to eradicate global hunger, reduce extreme poverty and provide humanitarian assistance to some of the world’s most vulnerable people.
Over the past two years we have again commenced increasing funding allocations for ODA in a sustained and measured way, providing an additional of €40 million in 2016 and a further €10 million for 2017. The total 2017 allocation for ODA will be €651 million.
Based on current Department of Finance forecasts for GNP we anticipate the ODA/GNP percentage outturn for 2016 to be in region of 0.3% with a similar level projected for 2017. The reduction in the percentage has been affected by the step change in the measurement of Ireland’s GNP.
We remain committed to making incremental, sustainable progress towards achieving the 0.7% UN target by 2030, over the period of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Ministerial Travel
Questions (88)
Catherine Murphy
Question:88. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans for ministerial travel abroad over the course of the St. Patrick's Day celebrations; if members of the Government and-or a delegation will visit the White House during that time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3095/17]
View answerWritten answers
St. Patrick’s Day has always offered a unique opportunity to promote Ireland’s economic and political interests overseas, with levels of publicity and media attention unmatched by the national day of any other country. Against a background of unprecedented uncertainty and change, Ministerial travel in and around St. Patrick’s Day is a particularly valuable opportunity to convey our views and interests to our partners abroad.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will this year, as in previous years, announce a St. Patrick’s Day programme of Ministerial visits designed to ensure that we make the best possible use of this exposure to enhance Ireland’s visibility internationally, to deepen bilateral relations, to promote our trade, tourism and investment interests, and to strengthen ties with the Irish diaspora.
In recent weeks my officials here in Dublin, in close consultation with the Embassy network and colleagues in the State agencies and other Government departments, have devised a list of recommended destinations and itineraries for St. Patrick’s Day 2017. These have been determined to provide the greatest promotional and political opportunities in line with our current priorities and with our strategic goals. I will be bringing this list of recommendations to Cabinet for consideration shortly and will announce our finalised programme in due course.
Over the St. Patrick’s Day period last year, the Taoiseach, Tánaiste, seven Ministers and two Ministers of State undertook an extensive programme of visits to seventeen cities in six countries. As in previous years, Ireland’s strong links with North America were reinforced through our St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, with 41 political, economic and cultural events hosted by our Embassies and Consulates in thirteen cities across the United States and Canada over the period.
This programme of events included a meeting at the White House between the Taoiseach and the President of the United States, a tradition that in some form dates back to 1952 and is a significant symbol of the warm relationship enjoyed by our two peoples. President Trump has already informed the Taoiseach of his intention to continue this tradition, and the Government is committed to engaging with the new administration in the interests of our long-standing and mutually beneficial ties.
Question No. 89 answered with Question No. 72.
Northern Ireland
Questions (90)
Brendan Howlin
Question:90. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has raised with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland the commitment contained in the Good Friday Agreement that consideration would be given to the introduction of a bill of rights for Northern Ireland; and, if so, the response he has received. [3240/17]
View answerWritten answers
A number of elements of the Good Friday Agreement have not yet been fully implemented, including a Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland. The Government’s firm position is that the Good Friday Agreement and the successor Agreements must be implemented in full, and this is reflected in the Programme for a Partnership Government. The Agreements, and the principles and values underpinning them, are at the core of the Government’s approach to peace, reconciliation and prosperity on this island.
On a Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland, the Government advanced the view during the 2014 Stormont House talks, that a Bill of Rights could set out precisely and formally the rights upon which a shared society for Northern Ireland could be based. While there was not sufficient consensus to take this forward at that time, the final Agreement did provide that the parties commit to: “serving the people of Northern Ireland equally, and to act in accordance with the obligations on government to promote equality and respect and to prevent discrimination; to promote a culture of tolerance, mutual respect and mutual understanding at every level of society, including initiatives to facilitate and encourage shared and integrated education and housing, social inclusion, and in particular community development and the advancement of women in public life; and to promote the interests of the whole community towards the goals of reconciliation and economic renewal”.
The Stormont House Agreement provides for regular review meetings with the participation of the Government, the British Government and the Executive party leaders. At the last two Review Meetings – most recently in December – I specifically raised the outstanding commitments references in the Stormont House Agreement – including on human rights - and suggested regular consideration of them at the Review meetings to ensure that they remain on the political agenda.
The Government recognises the importance of the human rights aspects of the Good Friday Agreement. This is reflected in my convening of a sectoral consultation on 13 February, as part of the All-Island Civic Dialogue on Brexit, on the human rights aspects of the Good Friday Agreement. Human rights are central to the peace process and must be protected and sustained, regardless of the UK’s status in the EU.
The Government views as a solemn responsibility our role and mandate as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement. The Government will continue to work with the British Government and the political parties to fulfil the full promise of the Good Friday Agreement and to advance political stability, reconciliation and economic prosperity in Northern Ireland.
Programme for Government
Questions (91)
Micheál Martin
Question:91. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach if all agreements with all Independent Deputies who support the Government have been published; and if the liaison unit that was recently established will be required to publish all contacts with all Deputies it is in contact with in relation to supporting the Government. [3075/17]
View answerWritten answers
The Programme for Partnership Government sets out the agreement between the Parties and Deputies who are participating in or supporting the Government.
The Parliamentary Unit was established to perform a liaison function to help ensure that Ministers and Government Departments are properly informed of new responsibilities and procedures in the 32nd Dáil. The Unit does not have any function in respect of TDs supporting the Government and therefore there are no contacts for publication.
Brexit Issues
Questions (92)
Micheál Martin
Question:92. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach his views on the British Prime Minister, Ms Theresa May's speech on 17 January 2017 and in particular her comments on Ireland. [3073/17]
View answerWritten answers
I welcome the fact that the Prime Minister’s speech provides greater clarity on the proposed approach of the British Government to the Brexit negotiation process.
I note that the Prime Minister has made clear that the UK wishes to secure the closest possible future economic relationship with the EU. That is an objective we share. Prime Minister May made clear that her priorities include maintaining the common travel area and avoiding a return to a hard border with Northern Ireland, both of which are welcome.
From our perspective, our overall negotiation priorities remain unchanged: our economy and trade, Northern Ireland, including the Peace Process and border issues, the common travel area, and the future of the European Union.
I recognise the alignment between our economic and trading concerns and the objective of the UK to have a close, and friction-free, economic and trading relationship with the EU, including with Ireland.
I am under no illusions about the challenges that remain to be addressed.
Both I and Government Ministers will continue to meet and engage with our EU counterparts over coming weeks to emphasise Ireland’s concerns and to ensure that they are fully reflected in the EU position once negotiations commence.
This activity is reinforced by extensive engagement at diplomatic and official level. The Government is acutely aware of the potential risks and challenges for the Irish economy and will remain fully engaged on this aspect as the negotiations proceed.
Ministerial Responsibilities
Questions (93)
Brendan Howlin
Question:93. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach the current responsibilities of Ministers of State at his Department. [3243/17]
View answerWritten answers
There are four Ministers of State assigned to my Department. Their responsibilities are as follows:
- Deputy Regina Doherty is Government Chief Whip and Minister of State at my Department, with oversight of the Central Statistics Office;
- Deputy Paul Kehoe is Minister of State at my Department and at the Department of Defence, with special responsibility for the Department of Defence;
- Deputy Dara Murphy is Minister of State at my Department, at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and at the Department of Justice and Equality, with special responsibility for European Affairs, Data Protection and the E.U. Digital Single Market; and
- Deputy Joe McHugh is Minister of State at my Department and at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, with special responsibility for the Diaspora and International Development.
Refugee Data
Questions (94)
Darragh O'Brien
Question:94. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the commitments that the Government has made in terms of accepting refugees and unaccompanied minors to Ireland, in tabular form; the number of persons to date that have been accepted here under the various resettlement and relocation programmes; the number of unaccompanied minors that have arrived here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3288/17]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy will be aware, the Irish Refugee Protection Programme (IRPP) was established by Government Decision on 10 September 2015 as a direct response to the humanitarian crisis that developed in Southern Europe as a consequence of mass migration from areas of conflict in the Middle East and Africa. Under this programme, the Government has pledged to accept a total of 4,000 persons into the State by the end of 2017, 2,622 through the EU relocation mechanism established by two EU Council Decisions in 2015 to assist Italy and Greece, and 1,040 (519 by the end of 2016 and the remainder in 2017) under the UNHCR-led refugee resettlement programme currently focussed on resettling refugees from Lebanon.
In a further gesture of humanitarian assistance towards the most vulnerable caught up in the migration crisis and following a debate in the Dáil, the Government also committed to taking up to 200 unaccompanied minors from France who were previously resident in the migrant camp at Calais. Further information in relation to this cohort is being included in the response to PQ No. 95 for answer today. These initiatives therefore leave just a small residual balance to be allocated from the Government decision to take 4,000 persons.
Resettlement strand of the programme
Taking account of the situation in the Middle East, and the plight of the refugees, the Tánaiste announced that Ireland would accept 520 persons for resettlement over an 18-month period to the end of 2017. This was almost double the figure proposed for Ireland by the European Commission and was delivered a year ahead of the Commission deadline.
In addition, the Government recently announced that it is extending the resettlement programme to take in a further 520 refugees from Lebanon in 2017, most of whom are of Syrian origin. 260 refugees have already been selected during a selection mission to Lebanon in October 2016 and are expected to arrive in Spring 2017. Most of these refugees are also Syrian. A further selection mission to Lebanon will be arranged in the coming months to select the remaining refugees due to come to Ireland in 2017 under the resettlement programme.
Relocation strand of the programme
Ireland has to-date taken in 241 people from Greece. In November, IRPP officials travelled to Athens and interviewed a group of 84 people who, once cleared for travel, are expected to arrive in February. An IRPP mission to interview 80 people took place in Athens from 12 – 16 December. A further mission has already taken place in January which interviewed 61 people. The intention thereafter is to sustain the pace of intakes throughout 2017 at the levels required to allow Ireland to meets its commitments to Greece within the time frame envisaged by the Programme.
Table of Total Numbers under Government Decision
|
Relocation Strand |
Numbers |
|
Council Decision 2015/1523 |
600 |
|
Council Decision 2015/1601 |
2,022 |
|
Total Relocation |
2,622 |
|
Resettlement Strand |
|
|
Government Decision 09/06/15 |
520 |
|
Government Decision 06/07/16 |
260 |
|
Government Decision 29/11/16 |
260 |
|
Total Resettlement |
1,040 |
|
Total Unaccompanied Minors Calais |
200 (up to) |
|
Mechanism as yet undecided |
138 |
|
Grand Total |
4000 |
Unaccompanied minors
In announcing the IRPP, the Government recognised the importance of prioritising family groups and addressing the position of unaccompanied children. A significant number of those who have arrived to date are young children with one or two parents. Ireland has taken in four unaccompanied minors with another to follow very shortly; we have indicated our willingness to take further unaccompanied minors from Greece under relocation and work continues in this regard. Such minors are placed in the care of Tusla. Unaccompanied minors that Ireland takes from Greece are additional to the commitments made by Ireland in respect those previously resident in the migrant camp in Calais.
The profile of persons taken in to-date under the relocation and resettlement strands of the IRPP is outlined in the following table.
Profile for Relocation Asylum Seekers
|
Total People |
Adults |
Minors |
Age 0-4 |
Age 5-12 |
Age 13-17 |
|
241 |
136 |
105 |
41 |
45 |
19 |
Profile for Resettlement Refugees
|
Total People |
Adults |
Minors |
Age 0-4 |
Age 5-12 |
Age 13-17 |
|
519 |
240 |
279 |
85 |
147 |
47 |
Unaccompanied Minors and Separated Children
Questions (95)
Darragh O'Brien
Question:95. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the progress made to date in accepting up to 200 unaccompanied minors from the dismantled Calais camp; if these children are part of or in addition to the 4,000 refugees Ireland has committed to under the various resettlement and relocation programmes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3289/17]
View answerWritten answers
The Government has been proactively engaged with the French authorities in identifying young people previously living in the camp in Calais who may wish to come to Ireland. Following the approval by Government of the appropriate legal mechanism and the identification of considerable resources needed, officials from my Department, the Department of Children and Youth Affairs and Tusla, the Child and Family Agency positively engaged with the French authorities in Paris in early January with a view to identifying these unaccompanied minors. There has also been ongoing contact with the NGO sector.
Subsequent to the officials meeting, the first mission to meet unaccompanied minors took place last week and included representatives of Tusla, which has statutory responsibility for the care and accommodation of unaccompanied minors in the State. The Tusla officials were accompanied by a member of staff from the Irish Refugee Protection Programme Office of my Department and members of An Garda Síochána who carried out security assessments. Four unaccompanied minors were assessed during this initial mission and will be relocated in the near future subject to the completion of the security assessment process. The next mission to another centre in France will take place very shortly to interview another six young people wishing to come here. Irish officials have drawn up detailed questionnaires to rapidly progress the identification of these young people. I also understand that NGO's have this week identified a total of six young people to my Department. Separately, two young people identified by the French Red Cross as having a relative here have already been processed and have arrived safely in Ireland. Although decisions regarding numbers and dates for future missions are matters for Tusla to determine in cooperation with the French authorities, it is anticipated that approximately 60 young people could be identified by the authorities and processed over the course of the coming months as willing to come to Ireland and we have committed to accept all of these on a phased basis, as soon as resources come on stream and subject to the aforementioned security process. The best interests of the child is central to this partnership process with the French authorities.
The intention is to rapidly process these young people by using some of the yet unallocated numbers included in the original decision to welcome 4000 refugees here and does not impact on the commitments entered into in relation to the EU Relocation or Resettlement Programmes.
Garda National Immigration Bureau
Questions (96)
Dessie Ellis
Question:96. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will address concerns and make representations with regard to persons (details supplied). [3290/17]
View answerWritten answers
The Deputy will appreciate that the issues raised are a matter for the Garda authorities in the first instance and I have no direct role.
However, to be of assistance I have made enquiries and I am informed by the Garda authorities that in November 2015, Gardaí attached to the Garda National Immigration Bureau executed a search warrant during which a number of items including documentation, as referred to by the Deputy, were seized. I am also advised by the Garda authorities that if the persons referred to require access to an item which was seized by Gardaí, then contact should be made with the Sergeant-in-Charge, Garda National Immigration Bureau (Operation Vantage) at 01 666 9100 in order to facilitate same.
It is also understood that the items in question are the subject of a Police Property Application which is due before the Courts on 15 February, 2017.
Residential Institutions
Questions (97)
Richard Boyd Barrett
Question:97. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if all persons accused by persons (details supplied) with regard to allegations of abuse were interviewed; if all the locations of alleged abuse mentioned in the accounts were visited and investigated; if any of the institutions mentioned are still operating as facilities which care for children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3321/17]
View answerWritten answers
I have requested a report from the Garda authorities in relation to this matter and I will contact the Deputy directly when the report is to hand.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 42A:
I refer to your recent Parliamentary Question (No. 97 of 25 January 2017) where the Deputy sought:
"....if all persons accused by persons (details supplied) with regard to allegations of abuse were interviewed; if all the locations of alleged abuse mentioned in the accounts were visited and investigated; if any of the institutions mentioned are still operating as facilities which care for children.....".
As he will recall, I was unable to respond fully at the time pending a report from the Garda authorities and I undertook to contact him again when the report was to hand. I am now informed that this matter was reported to An Garda Síochána in 2011 and was the subject of an investigation.
Following this investigation, a file was submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in December 2014, who directed there be no prosecution.
As you are aware, the DPP is independent in the performance of her functions and it is not open to me to intervene in this regard.
I hope that you find this information useful.
Departmental Contracts
Questions (98)
Michael Fitzmaurice
Question:98. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if a company (details supplied) which has been contracted to provide services at a hotel to facilitate the establishment of an EROC by her Department is the same company which initially submitted an expression of interest in 2015-2016 and tendered for the contract during 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3355/17]
View answerWritten answers
I wish to inform the Deputy that the company which responded to the original expression of interest is the company with whom the Department negotiated the contract to run the EROC in Ballaghaderreen. The directors of this company then established a separate company to manage and provide service in the EROC in question. This is normal commercial practice.
Property Registration
Questions (99)
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:99. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if the listing of prices on the property price register administered by the Property Services Regulatory Authority prices includes or excludes VAT; her plans to define whether final prices should all be either including or excluding VAT for this register; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3378/17]
View answerWritten answers
The Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA) was formally established on 3 April 2012, pursuant to the Property Services (Regulation) Act, 2011. The Residential Property Price Register, available at www.propertypriceregister.ie, is produced by the PSRA in accordance with the provisions of Section 86 of the Property Services (Regulation) Act 2011. The purpose of the Register is to bring transparency to house prices in Ireland. The Register is a list of property prices and it is not a "property price index". The details made available on the register are limited to price, address and date of sale and do not include such details as property size or number of rooms. It is simply designed to provide, on an ongoing basis, accurate prices of residential properties purchased at a particular date.
The Register contains information on residential properties purchased in Ireland since 1 January 2010, as declared to the Revenue Commissioners for stamp duty purposes, and forwarded by the Revenue Commissioners to the PSRA for publication. I am informed that VAT at 13.5% is only chargeable on new properties, it is not charged on second hand properties. Stamp duty in respect of new properties is paid on the property price exclusive of VAT. Accordingly, the prices given to the PSRA by the Revenue Commissioners for new properties are VAT exclusive. The Information Note on the first page of the Residential Property Price Register clearly states that if the property is a new property, the price shown is exclusive of VAT at 13.5%.
From the foregoing, it should be clear that the position currently is that all prices on the Property Price Register are VAT exclusive. In other words, the prices quoted on the Register exclude the 13.5% VAT applicable in respect of new properties. As indicated above, VAT is not payable in respect of second hand properties. I understand that there are no plans to alter this at this time, but that the PSRA plans to review the explanatory text on the property price register website with a view to enhancing its clarity for the general public.
Garda Data
Questions (100)
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:100. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of overtime hours allocated to the Garda north Dublin division in 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3387/17]
View answerWritten answers
I have asked the Garda Commissioner for the specific information requested and when it is to hand I will inform the Deputy accordingly.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 42A
I refer to Parliamentary Question No. 100 for answer on 25 January, 2017, in which you requested the number of overtime hours allocated to the Garda Dublin North Division in 2016.
As you will recall, the information you requested could not be obtained in the time available, and I undertook to contact you again.
You will be aware that the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the allocation of Garda resources and I, as Minister, have no direct role in these matters.
However, the Garda authorities have informed me that 239,951 overtime hours were allocated in the Dublin Metropolitan Region Northern Division in 2016 at a cost of some €7,821,795.
I hope this information is of assistance.
Garda Operations
Questions (101)
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:101. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of mandatory alcohol checkpoints that were conducted in the Garda north division between 1 December 2016 and 17 January 2017; the number of checkpoints that were carried out in each of the previous two corresponding years for the same time period; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3388/17]
View answerWritten answers
I would like to thank the Deputy for raising this important issue. I am deeply conscious of the serious issue of road safety and mindful of the increase in 2016 of road traffic fatalities. I am also mindful of the traumatic impact of road traffic collisions on those directly affected and their families, as well as the impact of dangerous driving more generally on the quality of life of residents in local communities across the country.
The Deputy will be aware that I have no direct role in the enforcement of Road Traffic legislation, which is an operational matter for the Garda Commissioner. However, I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following table shows the number of Garda Mandatory Alcohol Checkpoints recorded in the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) North Garda Division for the period 1 December 2016 to 17 January 2017 and for the same period for 2015/2016 and 2014/2015.
Number of Garda Mandatory Alcohol Checkpoints in DMR North Garda Division for the period 1 December 2016 to 17 January 2017*
|
2014 / 2015 |
2015 / 2016 |
2016 / 2017 |
|
124 |
58 |
125 |
*Figures are provisional, operational and liable to change and are valid to 23 January 2017
Road safety is a shared responsibility, one which the Government takes very seriously. Ireland's current Road Safety Strategy (2013 - 2020) aims to place Ireland consistently on the list of safest countries in the EU and beyond. To achieve this, we are continuing to work together in partnership with all relevant stakeholders. I attended a meeting of the Ministerial Committee on Road Safety this month, along with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, the Road Safety Authority, An Garda Síochána, the Attorney General and other agencies. This Committee oversees the implementation of the Road Safety Strategy and provides a forum for high-level discussion of road safety issues. The Committee generally meets later in the year, however, in light of the 2016 increase in road fatalities, the meeting was brought forward to January. The purpose of the meeting was to bring together all stakeholders to see what immediate actions could be taken to reverse the upward trend in road fatalities. During this meeting, An Garda Síochána indicated that there will be an additional 10% increase in the traffic corps during the course of 2017, which should also lead to better outcomes in relation to road traffic enforcement. An Garda Síochána also informed the meeting that it was intended to have a stronger focus on road traffic enforcement in the training provided to new recruits at Templemore.
Following this meeting, my colleague, the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport announced that his Department will review Section 29 of the Road Traffic 2010 with the intention of ensuring that all drivers, if caught drink driving, will, in future, receive a mandatory disqualification.
Policing Co-operation
Questions (102)
Clare Daly
Question:102. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 150 of 17 January 2017 and in view of the fact that both the German Federal Ministry of the Interior and the Scottish Government have made formal requests of the British Government to extend the Pitchford inquiry to their respective jurisdictions (details supplied), the reason she is choosing not to make the same request on behalf of the Irish public; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3389/17]
View answerWritten answers
The position in respect of this matter remains unchanged and is as set out in my reply to the Deputy's Question No. 150 of 17 January 2017. As I informed the Deputy then, the establishment of the Pitchford Inquiry into undercover policing is a matter for the UK Government and the question of my seeking to have its terms of reference extended does not arise. I would, however, reiterate the point I have made previously that should anything emerge from the findings of the Pitchford Inquiry that would be relevant to policing in this jurisdiction I will consider it fully and take any action that may be required.
Anti-Social Behaviour
Questions (103)
Jim O'Callaghan
Question:103. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if consideration will be given to having trains policed by a dedicated police unit in an effort to deter anti-social behaviour; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3406/17]
View answerWritten answers
While I am in regular contact with the Garda Commissioner about all aspects of policing and community safety, the specific deployment of policing resources is a matter for the Garda Commissioner, as is the question on ongoing engagement with public transport operators in relation to the security and safety of the travelling public.
Insofar as the general approach to tackling these issues is concerned, I am advised that Garda management engages extensively with transport operators and a range of regional and local operations have been put in place as required to address issues that have arisen at specific locations. Instances of crime and anti-social behaviour are monitored by local Garda management with the assistance of Garda Síochána Analysis Service, which results in periodic operations aimed at anti-social behaviour on and around public transport routes. I am further advised that there is effective communication with the respective control centres and that access to good quality CCTV has also been of great assistance in the investigation of complaints.
Having regard to the above, I have no plans for the development of separate policing arrangements for trains or transport services generally. Instead, investment is being made in enhancing the resources available for policing generally, including a very substantial provision of €88.5 million for Garda overtime in 2017 which will strengthen the capacity to respond to changing crime trends. Underpinning the Government's approach is the commitment to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. The Government's plan is to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 new Gardaí and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan within in An Garda Síochána. Approximately 300 appointments will also be made to the Garda Reserve.
I trust that the Deputy will agree that the increased resources which are now coming on stream will undoubtedly benefit policing in relation to train and other transport services in all areas of the country.
Legislative Programme
Questions (104)
Brendan Howlin
Question:104. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 173 of 18 October 2016, when she anticipates the Legal Services Regulatory Authority will commence its work; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3408/17]
View answerWritten answers
I have recently set out the current position in relation to the coming into operation of the Legal Services Regulatory Authority in my Written Reply to Question No. 164 of 17 January 2017 which I shall, therefore, largely reiterate on this occasion. The setting-up of the Legal Services Regulatory Authority has in fact been under way since 19 July 2016 when, under S.I. No. 383 of 2016, I commenced those provisions of Part 1 and Part 2 of the Legal Services Regulation Act 2015 as necessary to get the new Authority up and running, particularly in terms of its membership and appointment. On 29 September 2016, I signed the Order appointing 1 October 2016 as the official “establishment day” of the Regulatory Authority as provided under section 7 of the 2015 Act - S.I. No. 507 of 2016 refers. In conjunction with these initial steps the nomination, approval and appointment procedures for the members of the new Legal Services Regulatory Authority set out in Part 2 of the 2015 Act were also completed. This has included the required resolutions approving such appointment having been passed by each House of the Oireachtas. Dr. Don Thornhill has also been appointed as Chairperson of the Regulatory Authority in accordance with the Act.
The Authority, which has eleven members including a lay majority and lay-Chairperson, held its inaugural meeting on 26 October 2016 and has been meeting monthly since then with its most recent meeting having taken place on 19 January 2017. Initial office accommodation has been provided for the Authority by my Department along with the secondment of an officer at Assistant Principal level in support of its start-up phase. Funding support of €1 million has also been provided to the new Authority by my Department in December on a strictly recoupable basis as the new Authority will be self-funding by levy. In the building up of capacity and resources to become fully operational, the Legal Services Regulatory Authority has recently appointed a person to fulfil the duties of its Chief Executive on a solely interim basis to drive the initial start-up phase. At the same time this will enable the Authority to prepare the way for the public recruitment of a full-time Chief Executive in the coming months having had the opportunity to more clearly identify its existing and future management needs and capacities in real time.
As part of the commencement of Part 2 of the 2015 Act, the Law Society, the Bar Council and the Honorable Society of the King's Inns have furnished the Legal Services Regulatory Authority with copies of their professional codes as required within one month of the Authority's establishment under section 23(6)(a). On 5 December 2016, under S.I. No. 630 of 2016, I also commenced sections 118 to 120 of the 2015 Act. These provisions set statutory delivery deadlines for the completion of public consultations and reports on the specified matters concerned. These relate to Legal Partnerships, Multi-Disciplinary Practices and certain restrictions on barristers in relation to direct access on contentious matters and the holding of clients' monies. The working focus right now is on the managed roll-out of the Authority's remaining functions in tandem with the phased commencement during the year of the various remaining Parts and provisions of the 2015 Act.
Against this background, it is intended that the phased commencement of the remaining Parts of the 2015 Act will be implemented in the first half of this year. The current focus includes the phased commencement of respective sections or Parts of the 2015 Act such as those dealing with the introduction of a more transparent legal cost regime, the establishment of a Roll of Practising Barristers and the separate introduction under the Act of Pre-Action Protocols. It also includes the transition of the Office of the Taxing-Master to that of the new Office of the Legal Costs Adjudicator which is a substantial structural reform of an office of the High Court and for which I have also introduced and commenced additional supporting measures under the Courts Bill which was enacted on 28 December 2016. Following these steps the key provisions centred around Part 6 of the Act dealing with the new public complaints and professional conduct and disciplinary procedures, and the appointment of the new Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal, will be commenced.
These are tasks for which I know the new Authority, with the direct engagement of its interim Chief Executive, is actively building up its working resources in the short term. My Department and the new Regulatory Authority will, therefore, continue to liaise closely to ensure that we can successfully coordinate the commencement, from my side as Minister, and delivery, by the Authority as the new independent statutory regulator, of the various provisions concerned.
Courts Service Administration
Questions (105)
Clare Daly
Question:105. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she can confirm the operation of a digital audio recording system in the justice system; when it commenced; when any refinements occurred; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3432/17]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy is aware, under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998, management of the courts is the responsibility of the Courts Service which is independent in exercising its functions, which include the provision of information on the courts system.
However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made and the Courts Service has informed me that Digital Audio Recording (DAR) is in operation in courts in all jurisdictions. The DAR system was first commenced in 2005 in the Supreme Court and was fully rolled out across all jurisdictions by 2011.
Refinements in DAR technology have taken place over time. In July 2016 a new service provider was appointed following procurement and, as part of the new contract, a technology refresh is being provided to bring both hardware and software up-to-date. All recording units (PCs) in court will be replaced with new PCs and the latest version of recording, playback and note-taking software over the next two years. This process commenced in December 2016, with new systems installed in the Criminal Courts of Justice and the Four Courts, and will be completed in 2018.
Garda Station Refurbishment
Questions (106)
Pearse Doherty
Question:106. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the amount of money spent on the refurbishment of the Garda station in Clonmany, County Donegal; and the current opening hours of the Garda station. [3433/17]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy will appreciate, the programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works, which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. As Minister, I have no direct role in relation to these matters.
I am however, advised by the Garda Authorities that that Clonmany Garda Station was completely refurbished in 2010 at a cost of some €235,000.
The station is, I understand, located in the Buncrana District in the Donegal Division and is open Monday to Friday from 7pm to 8pm subject to the availability of members. It is part of the North Inishowen Rural Community Policing Initiative and its area headquarters is the Garda Station at Carndonagh. When the Garda member attached to Clonmany is not on duty, the sub-district is policed by Gardaí from Carndonagh Garda Station. In addition, the area is patrolled by the district patrol car based in Buncrana and by Detective and Roads Policing Units, also based in Buncrana.