Seán Sherlock
Question:1065. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a resolution in the case of a person (details supplied) can be identified. [35448/18]
View answerMotor Insurance
Questions (1065)
Written answers
My reply to your previous question on this matter (PQ Ref 12358/18) set out the requirements for an application for a Motor Dealer Identity code. That reply referred to the special ‘dispensations’ motor dealers can avail of when granted this identity code. Accordingly, my Department must be satisfied that any application for Motor Identity codes meets all the requirements, including copy of a premises rateable valuation receipt, or planning permission for such premises granted under the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act 1963.
It should be noted that this process is in line with requirements by the Revenue Commissioners for authorised motor dealers, and also what is requested by a Licensing Authority in the issue of a Motor Trade Licence.
I understand that an official from my Department has communicated this verbally, and in writing, to the person whose details you have supplied.
Military Aircraft Landings
Questions (1066, 1076)
Clare Daly
Question:1066. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his Department was notified in advance by the embassy of the United States of an aircraft (details supplied) being on contract to the United States military; and the origin of the flight in view of the fact that there is no air base in Roswell with the code ROS. [35500/18]
View answerClare Daly
Question:1076. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if an application was made for a flight (details supplied) for exemptions for the transportation of munitions or weapons of war through Shannon Airport to date in 2018 under the Air Navigation (Carriage of Munitions of War, Weapons and Dangerous Goods) Order, SI 224 of 1973; and the origin of the flight in view of the fact there is no air base in Roswell with the code ROS. [35499/18]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 1066 and 1076 together.
The aircraft in question was a Boeing 767 operated by Cargojet Airways Limited.
It arrived in Shannon from Roswell International (ROW) on the 3rd of July 2018 and departed to Tel Aviv, Israel on the 4th of July following a crew rest period.
No application for an exemption for the carriage of munitions of war was made to my Department.
Suicide Prevention
Questions (1067)
James Browne
Question:1067. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the new bridge under construction in New Ross will include suicide prevention apparatus such as suicide barriers and netting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36477/18]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The planning, design and operation of individual roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy's question to TII for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A
Driver Test Data
Questions (1068)
Michael McGrath
Question:1068. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the details of each driver test centre nationally; the number of persons waiting for a driver test; the expected waiting time for persons applying for a test at each centre; the longest time that a person on the waiting list has been waiting to be offered a test at each centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36642/18]
View answerWritten answers
This is a matter for the Road Safety Authority. I have referred the question to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response is not received within 10 days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A
Bus Éireann Services
Questions (1069)
Niamh Smyth
Question:1069. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a matter (details supplied) in relation to the change in Bus Éireann's timetable for daily services from Cavan to Dublin will be examined; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35423/18]
View answerWritten answers
The issue raised is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) in conjunction with Bus 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A
Bus Éireann Services
Questions (1070)
Michael Healy-Rae
Question:1070. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a matter in relation to the carriage of a mobility scooter on buses by a person (details supplied) will be examined; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35432/18]
View answerWritten answers
The matter referred to by the Deputy is an issue coming under the remit of the transport operator, in this case Bus Éireann.
I have therefore forwarded your question to Bus Éireann for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A.
Dublin Bus Fleet
Questions (1071)
Eamon Ryan
Question:1071. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the National Transport Authority, NTA, is proposing a new colour scheme for buses in Dublin which would be dark blue on the front and back and that persons with visual impairments are concerned that this colour scheme will make the buses much less visible; if there has or will be public consultation in relation to this change; and if he has had discussions with the NTA, in relation to this change. [35447/18]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the development and implementation of public transport in the Greater Dublin Area, including the development of a single brand to be used by all public transport operators providing services in accordance with a public transport services contract with the NTA.
Under the BusConnects programme the NTA are proposing a new, fresh and modern look for the bus system by introducing a redesigned bus livery, which will also accommodate the potential of additional operators providing bus services as part of the overall network.
The NTA held a public consultation on the proposed new livery in October 2017 and I am aware that it has also recently engaged with the National Disability Authority and other key stakeholders in this regard. Given the NTA's responsibility in the matter I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more detailed reply following completion of that process.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A
Dormant Accounts Fund
Questions (1072)
Peter Burke
Question:1072. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the way in which clubs or organisations can apply for the dormant accounts funding, namely the sports measures for disadvantaged communities to support the national physical activity plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35460/18]
View answerWritten answers
The legislation governing Dormant Accounts requires that funds from that source may only be used to fund programmes or projects which would assist:
- the personal and social development of persons who are economically or socially disadvantaged;
- the educational development of persons who are educationally disadvantaged; or
- persons with a disability.
In order to ensure an effective, efficient and targeted approach towards adherence to these eligibility criteria, Sport Ireland periodically invites applications for possible projects and programmes from the National Governing Bodies, Local Sports Partnerships and other agencies directly involved with disadvantage and disability. Proposals considered to be consistent with the eligibility criteria can then be submitted by those entities to Sport Ireland for appraisal. Individual sports clubs or organisations should accordingly liaise directly with their relevant Local Sports Partnership or National Governing Body.
Driver Test Waiting Lists
Questions (1073)
Brian Stanley
Question:1073. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason a person (details supplied) is waiting since 6 January 2018 for an appointment for their driver test in Tullamore; when he or she can expect to be called; and the measures being taken to reduce the waiting time at the test centre in Tullamore. [35482/18]
View answerWritten answers
This is a matter for the Road Safety Authority. I have referred the question to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response is not received within 10 days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A
Rail Services Provision
Questions (1074, 1104)
Joan Burton
Question:1074. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the additional capacity that can be added to the existing services on the Maynooth to Connolly rail line in the second half of 2019 arising from the refurbishment of existing rolling stock that can be put into service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35490/18]
View answer
James Lawless
Question:1104. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the procurement of additional carriages on the rail fleet which will serve the Pelletstown station when complete as part of the Maynooth to Connolly stations service will be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36092/18]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 1074 and 1104 together.
As the Deputies are aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA), working with other relevant State bodies such as in this instance Iarnród Éireann, is responsible for ensuring the planning and delivery of the public transport infrastructure priorities in the GDA. This includes the electrification of the Maynooth line, as part of the DART Expansion Programme, as well as the refurbishing of existing and the purchasing of new railway stock in the context of increased capacity and services.
Therefore, in light of the NTA’s role, I have forwarded the Deputies' questions to the NTA for further response.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A
Road Network
Questions (1075)
Michael Healy-Rae
Question:1075. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will address a matter regarding the upgrading of a road (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35494/18]
View answerWritten answers
The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of the relevant County or City Council, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from the Council's own resources supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is also a matter for the Council.
Prior to the financial crisis, applications for funding for projects such as Dale Road would have been considered as part of the Specific Improvement Grant Scheme for regional and local roads. However, the extent of the cutbacks in grant funding during the crisis meant this grant scheme had to be curtailed after 2013 because expenditure on maintenance/renewal was falling well short of what was required to adequately maintain the regional and local road network.
The NDP does provide for the gradual build up in funding for the road network but it will take some years yet to reach the level required for the adequate maintenance and renewal of the network. For this reason there is limited scope at present for funding projects under the Specific Grant Programme.
Any projects proposed by local authorities for consideration under the Specific Grant Programme are assessed by the Department on a case-by-case basis. All projects put forward by local authorities for consideration must comply with the requirements of the Public Spending Code and my Department's Capital Appraisal Framework and it is important for local authorities to prioritise projects within their overall area of responsibility with these requirements in mind.
As required under the capital project appraisal process Kerry County Council has submitted a Preliminary Appraisal in relation to the upgrade of this road. Once that appraisal is assessed, taking into account other competing projects and the overall roads budget, my Department will respond to Kerry County Council.
Question No. 1076 answered with Question No. 1066.
Railway Stations
Questions (1077)
James Lawless
Question:1077. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport further to Parliamentary Question No. 11 of 15 February 2018, the status of the expansion of the car parking capacity levels at Sallins and Naas railway station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35521/18]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy is aware and as outlined in my reply last February, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure and services in the Greater Dublin Area. Iarnród Éireann receive Exchequer funding via the NTA in relation to the provision of car parking at train stations on the heavy rail network including Sallins and Naas railway station.
In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for further update and direct reply.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A
Rail Network
Questions (1078)
James Lawless
Question:1078. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of plans for the upgrading of rail service levels through the Phoenix Park tunnel during off-peak times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35522/18]
View answerWritten answers
The issue raised is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA), in conjunction with Irish Rail, 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A
Departmental Expenditure
Questions (1079)
Eoin Ó Broin
Question:1079. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the cost of the contracting out of secure printing in his Department in 2016, 2017 and to date in 2018. [35532/18]
View answerWritten answers
The cost for contracting out secure printing in my Department is contained in the table below,
|
Year |
Tax Discs |
VRCs |
Licensing Paper |
|
2016 |
€440,001.84 |
€164,702.92 |
7933.5 |
|
2017 |
€411,782.16 |
€37,198.33 |
2238.6 |
|
To date in 2018 |
€183,027.21 |
€111,279.54 |
5399.7 |
Marine Safety
Questions (1080)
Niall Collins
Question:1080. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if assistance can be provided in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35566/18]
View answerWritten answers
The MCIB was set up under the Merchant Shipping (Investigation of Marine Casualties) Act, 2000 to investigate marine casualties and publish reports of such investigations. Under Section 8 of the Act, the MCIB is established as being independent of the Minister in the performance of its functions, and in general is independent of any other person or body whose interest could conflict with the functions of the Board.
The purpose of an investigation is to establish the cause or causes of a marine casualty, with a view to making recommendations for the avoidance of similar marine casualties. Under the Act, it is specifically not the purpose of an investigation to attribute blame or fault.
All investigations of casualties are carried out by the Board’s panel of external investigators. The panel consists of personnel holding technical qualifications such as naval architects, marine engineers or deck officers and reflects broad based maritime competence and experience. The process is very thorough and involves a variety of professional bodies, including the Gardaí, the Irish Coastguard, Met Eireann and the RNLI before completion and submission to the Board.
Following its investigation, the MCIB makes its recommendations. In this case, the recommendations included the undertaking of a highly visible information poster campaign on piers and launching areas relating to life jackets, VHF radio and emergency contact details and in particular the importance of the need to wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) in order to improve the chance of survival when an accident occurs.
A number of actions were taken by my Department to support these recommendations including the issuing of two marine notices relating to the use of PFDs. Furthermore, the Marine Safety Working Group (MSWG), chaired by the Irish Maritime Administration, a division within my Department produces booklets and posters entitled "Safety on the Water" providing basic safety guidelines and advice for recreational craft users, fishermen, divers etc. who take to the waters of Ireland. The Group’s aim is to create and communicate marine safety information and messages to endeavour to reduce accidents and to prevent the loss of life in Irish Waters. It co-ordinates the publication of water safety messages through media broadcasts, publications, brochures and posters including increasing public awareness of the requirement to wear PFDs, use of VHF radio and emergency contact numbers.
In addition to the above actions, my Department also promotes the use of PFDs through its circulation of The Code of Practice for the Safe Operation of Recreational Craft, which was revised in 2017 and gives straightforward safety advice on best practice to operators and owners of recreational craft. http://www.dttas.ie/content/new-code-practice-safe-operation-recreational-craft.
I understand that this has been a difficult time for both families and I hope that you are reassured by my Department’s efforts to ensure the safety of all while at sea.
Driver Test Data
Questions (1081)
Jonathan O'Brien
Question:1081. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of registered driver instructors who are independent or self-employed as opposed to being franchised to companies such as a company (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35568/18]
View answerWritten answers
Details of all driving instructors (ADIs), as approved by the Road Safety Authority (RSA), can be found on the RSA website at http://www.rsa.ie/en/RSA/Learner-Drivers/Finding-an-instructor/Find-an-instructor/.
Public Transport Fares
Questions (1082)
Fiona O'Loughlin
Question:1082. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to review Irish Rail train fares in 2019; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35611/18]
View answerWritten answers
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for regulating fares charged by public transport operators. I have therefore 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A
Marine Casualty Investigations Board
Questions (1083)
Jackie Cahill
Question:1083. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will request the Marine Casualty Investigation Board to reinvestigate the deaths of persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35656/18]
View answerWritten answers
The Marine Casualty Investigation Board was set up under the Merchant Shipping (Investigation of Marine Casualties) Act, 2000 to investigate marine casualties and publish reports of such investigations. Under Section 8 of the Act, the MCIB is established as being independent of the Minister in the performance of its functions and, in general, is independent of any other person or body whose interests could conflict with the functions of the Board.
The purpose of an investigation is to establish the cause or causes of a marine casualty with a view to making recommendations for the avoidance of similar casualties. Under the Act, it is specifically not the purpose of an investigation to attribute blame or fault.
Before publishing a Report, the Board is required to send a draft of the report or sections of the draft to any person who, in its opinion, is likely to be adversely affected by the publishing of the report (or their representatives), who have 28 days to submit observations.
In relation to re-opening of MCIB investigations, section 33 (1) of the Merchant Shipping (Investigation of Marine Casualties) Act, 2000 provides that “the Board may re-open a completed investigation if satisfied there is new evidence available which could be likely to materially alter the findings of the investigation and the purpose of the investigation would be served by re-opening it”. However, I understand that the Board has no plans currently to re-open the investigation in this particular case.
Under the Act the Minister has certain powers, for example after consulting the Board, the Minister may direct an inquiry be held into a marine casualty or direct that a completed inquiry be re-opened if the Minister is satisfied there is new evidence likely to materially alter the outcome.
I am aware of the marine casualty at Helvick Pier Co Waterford on 23rd May 2010, to which you refer, in which Mr. John O’Brien & Mr. Pat Esmonde were lost overboard and their remains recovered on 25th May 2010. In the event that new evidence is now available in relation to this matter, the Act allows such evidence to be brought to the attention of the Board.
Military Aircraft Landings
Questions (1084)
Clare Daly
Question:1084. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport further to Parliamentary Question No. 61 of 21 June 2018, if the aircraft was or was not in Irish controlled airspace. [35658/18]
View answerWritten answers
As previously indicated in my reply to Dail Question No. 200 dated 14 June 2018, the aircraft in question, while over international waters, was diverted to Shannon Airport due to technical issues.
I understand that the event was reported as occurring at the boundary of the Shannon and Shanwick Upper Flight Information Regions (UIR). The location is within Irish controlled airspace but over international waters and, as such, the matter would not be the subject of an investigation by the relevant Irish authorities.
In this context, it is important to make a distinction between Irish "sovereign" airspace and Irish “controlled” airspace.
Irish sovereign airspace, by definition and international agreement, is the portion of the atmosphere controlled by Ireland above its territory, including its territorial waters (i.e. 12 nautical miles out from the coastline). Airspace beyond a country’s territorial limit is termed “international”.
Ireland, as a party to international agreements, provides certain air traffic management services in some parts of international airspace, including the Shannon UIR. However, the relevant international treaty sets out that when the location of an incident cannot be established as being within or over the territory of another State, the State of Operator, after consultation with the State of Registry, should accept full or partial responsibility for the conduct of the investigation.
In this instance, it was established that the event did not occur in the territory of the State, as it was beyond the 12 mile territorial limit.