Tuesday, 27 Nov 2018

Written Answers Nos. 1-80

Departmental Advertising Budgets

Questions (11, 12)

Brendan Howlin

Question:

11. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach if he will report on the proposed budget for social media advertising in his Department for 2019. [45715/18]

Joan Burton

Question:

12. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Taoiseach if he will report on the proposed budget for social media advertising in his Department for 2019. [48231/18]

Written answers

The Taoiseach

I propose to take Questions Nos. 11 and 12 together.

The cost for any social media advertising undertaken in 2019 will be met from my Department's administrative budget. Costs incurred are expected to be significantly less than the spend on digital advertising in 2018 which is estimated at approximately €450,000.

The expenditure referenced relates to a number of major cross-Government public information campaigns that the Department funded centrally during 2018, for example Healthy Ireland, Global Ireland, Project Ireland 2040 the Self Employed Benefits campaign, aimed at ensuring self employed people are aware of the new and existing benefits available to them.

The majority of this expense was incurred prior to July 2018, before changes were made. Public information campaigns in the future will largely be funded by the relevant line Department, as opposed to being funded centrally from this Department.

Communications is ever-evolving. It is important to communicate across a variety of platforms, including social media, to ensure transparent and clarity for all citizens. The Government Information Service is now required to provide a 24/7 service to media organizations, on all topics of public interest, and with short response times. It is also required to generate its own online content, including written, audio and video material, as well as live broadcast on occasion.

Questions No. 13 resubmitted.

Taoiseach's Meetings and Engagements

Questions (14)

Brendan Howlin

Question:

14. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his recent visit to County Derry. [46989/18]

Written answers

The Taoiseach

I visited Derry City on Friday 26th October where I had several engagements.

I was pleased to visit the Apprentice Boys Headquarters and Museum where I enjoyed a tour of the Museum. I also had the opportunity to meet the Chair of the Management Committee Mr William Moore and some of his colleagues.

I then visited Creggan Enterprises in the Rath Mór Centre in the Creggan where I spoke with local business people and members of the community. I also got the chance to meet those involved in projects operating from the Centre. During my visit, I also met briefly with the local MP, Ms Elisha McCallion.

Finally, that evening I spoke at the St Columb’s College Annual Dinner which this year was in honour of one of St Columb’s former students, Mr Mark Durkan.

While my visit to Derry was short, it was a welcome opportunity for engagement with various groups from both sides of the community. I believe that visits like this by me and by other Government Ministers are important in the context of our overall North South relations, particularly at a time when the formal structures of the North South Ministerial Council are not active.

Questions Nos. 15 to 17, inclusive, resubmitted.

Taoiseach's Communications

Questions (18, 24)

Brendan Howlin

Question:

18. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his telephone conversation with Prime Minister May on 5 November 2018. [46729/18]

Joan Burton

Question:

24. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his most recent conversation with Prime Minister May. [48229/18]

Written answers

The Taoiseach

I propose to take Questions Nos. 18 and 24 together.

I spoke by phone to the British Prime Minister, Theresa May on 5 November, when we discussed the current state of the Brexit negotiations. We both emphasised our commitment to avoiding a hard border and the need for a legally operable backstop.

The Prime Minister raised the possibility of a review mechanism for the backstop. I indicated an openness to consider proposals for a review, provided that it was clear that the outcome of any such review could not involve a unilateral decision to end the backstop.

I recalled the prior commitments made that the backstop must apply ‘unless and until’ alternative arrangements are agreed.

While I had no scheduled bilateral meeting with Prime Minister May at the Special Meeting of the European Council on November 25th, I did of course see her and my other European colleagues at the meeting.

I welcome the endorsement by the European Council of the Agreement on the withdrawal of the UK from the EU, and approval of the Political Declaration setting out the framework for the future relationship.  

The Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland provides a guarantee that there will be no hard border on the island of Ireland. We hope that the backstop will never be used and we will continue to work closely with our EU partners during the negotiations on a future agreement that establishes alternative arrangements.

Question No. 19 to 23, inclusive, resubmitted.

Question No. 24 answered with Question No. 18.

Question No. 25 resubmitted.

Seanad Reform

Questions (26)

Brendan Howlin

Question:

26. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach the status of work of the Seanad Reform Implementation Group. [46731/18]

Written answers

The Taoiseach

I established an Implementation Group on Seanad Reform to consider the Manning report and develop specific proposals to legislate for Seanad Reform. The Implementation Group comprises Members of the Oireachtas with the assistance of outside experts, as appropriate.

Since its initial meeting on 9th May 2018, the Group has met eleven times. The Group is due to report back in the coming weeks.

Question No. 27 resubmitted.

Taoiseach's Meetings and Engagements

Questions (28)

Brendan Howlin

Question:

28. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his bilateral meetings with the President of Finland, Mr. Sauli Niinistö and the Prime Minister of Finland, Mr. Juri Sipilä in Helsinki and other meetings he held during his visit. [46991/18]

Written answers

The Taoiseach

I travelled to Helsinki earlier this month, where I had bilateral meetings with the President of Finland, Sauli Niinistö, and the Prime Minister of Finland, Juha Sipilä.

Finland and Ireland are like-minded on many issues, and both bilateral meetings were very warm and constructive.

In my meeting with Prime Minister Sipila we discussed Finland’s upcoming Presidency of the EU and a range of issues across the EU agenda including Brexit, migration, and economic issues, such as the Multi-Annual Financial Framework and Economic and Monetary Union. We also looked forward to Finland's upcoming Presidency of the Council of Ministers in the second half of 2019.

In meeting with President Niinistö issues raised included security and defence, external relations, including the EU's relations with Russia, an issue which is of particular concern in Finland.

In both my meetings we also discussed bilateral relations between Finland and Ireland, which are excellent, and agreed to continue work to further strengthen our strategic relationship. I also took the opportunity to thank both leaders for their solidarity throughout the Brexit negotiations.

I attended a networking event later that day, hosted by our Ambassador to Finland, where I met with Irish business, cultural and community representatives.

Taoiseach's Meetings and Engagements

Questions (29, 31)

Brendan Howlin

Question:

29. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his attendance at the Armistice centenary commemoration at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. [47846/18]

Joan Burton

Question:

31. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his meeting with the French President, Mr. Emmanuel Macron during Armistice commemorations. [48230/18]

Written answers

The Taoiseach

I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 31 together.

I travelled to Paris where I was honoured to represent Ireland at the Armistice Day Commemorations on 11 November.

I am grateful to President Higgins for offering to delay his inauguration ceremony that day, to enable government and other representatives to attend commemoration ceremonies across Ireland, the U.K. and France.

Eighty-four Heads of State and Governments gathered at the Arc de Triomphe to remember those who lost their lives or were wounded in World War One. This solemn occasion served as a stark reminder of the tragedy of war, and the need to focus our efforts on working together at European and international level to ensure that history does not repeat itself.

President Macron hosted the event and I had the opportunity to speak with him upon arrival, and in the margins of the ceremonies.

I also had informal exchanges with other counterparts including several European and African leaders, as well as Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada, and the heads of international organisations.

Question No. 30 resubmitted.

Question No. 31 answered with Question No. 29.

Questions Nos. 32 to 35, inclusive, resubmitted.

Brexit Issues

Questions (36)

Brendan Howlin

Question:

36. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach the role of his Department in Brexit preparedness. [47847/18]

Written answers

The Taoiseach

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, led by the Tánaiste, has overall responsibility for Brexit. That said, Brexit will have implications for each Government Department and Agency. Within my Department, staff across several divisions contribute to the work on Brexit.

The International, European Union and Northern Ireland division covers work on all international, EU and British-Irish and Northern Ireland affairs within the Department, including Brexit matters. The Economic Division advises me on economic policy aimed at sustainable economic growth, with a particular focus on jobs and competitiveness including the possible economic impacts of Brexit.

To augment this work, my Department recently established a unit to work on Brexit preparedness and contingency planning. The unit assists a Secretaries General group, which oversees ongoing work on national Brexit preparedness and contingency planning. It is focussed on cross-Government co-ordination, planning and programme management, and works closely with colleagues in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Preparation and planning for a range of Brexit scenarios, including contingency planning, was initiated well in advance of the UK referendum. Over the last 16 months, the Tánaiste has led efforts to deepen and intensify this planning.

The whole-of-Government response to Brexit is underpinned by a comprehensive set of Government structures, which ensure that all Departments and their agencies are engaging in detailed preparedness and contingency planning, including through the development of sectoral action plans.

Questions Nos. 37 to 40, inclusive, resubmitted.

Departmental Staff Data

Questions (41)

Brendan Howlin

Question:

41. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach the number of staff in his Department that provide supports for Independent Ministers in government. [48205/18]

Written answers

The Taoiseach

My Department, as outlined in the Strategy Statement, provides support services for the Taoiseach and the Government, including the Independent Members of Government, through the Government Secretariat, the Parliamentary Liaison Unit, the Programme for Government Office and the Cabinet Committee structure to ensure Government business is managed to the highest standards.

The Chief Strategist for the Independent Alliance and the Political Coordinator for the Independent Ministers in Government are also based in my Department.

The Government Press Secretary acts as a spokesperson for the Taoiseach and the Government and is assisted by the Press Office in his role of co-ordinating the media relations of all Government Departments. The Deputy Press Secretary, who is also based in my Department, is tasked with coordinating communications for all the Independents in Government .

British-Irish Council

Questions (42)

Brendan Howlin

Question:

42. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his attendance at the British-Irish Council on the Isle of Man on 8 November 2018. [47845/18]

Written answers

The Taoiseach

I attended the 31st British Irish Council (BIC) Summit in the Isle of Man on Friday 9 November, hosted by Chief Minister Howard Quale. I was accompanied by the Minister for Natural Resources, Community Affairs and Digital Development, Sean Canney TD.

The discussion at the summit covered political developments for Administrations since the last summit in June, including on the implications of Brexit, particularly for relationships across the islands. The Council also discussed the current political situation in Northern Ireland and endorsed plans for a future programme of work for the Council’s Digital Inclusion work sector.

I had side meetings with Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones and Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon in which we exchanged views on issues of mutual interest and continued co-operation. These discussions focused mainly on Brexit and its impacts on business and citizens and on developments in Westminster and Brussels.

I also took the opportunity to speak with UK Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington on Brexit and on the absence of an agreement between the parties on re-establishing the Northern Ireland Executive. I underlined the importance of the restoration of the institutions in the context of full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement, and undertook to continue to work with the British government to back the northern parties to achieve this outcome.

Questions Nos. 43, to 55, inclusive, resubmitted.

Questions Nos. 56 to 63, inclusive, answered orally.

Infrastructure and Capital Investment Programme

Questions (64)

Charlie McConalogue

Question:

64. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the levels of capital expenditure which will be allocated for infrastructure projects for County Donegal; the timeframe for these allocations; the projects for which funding will be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48996/18]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

As I have informed the Deputy in response to similar previous questions, in my role as Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform I am responsible for setting the overall capital allocations across Departments and for monitoring monthly expenditure at a Departmental level.  Decisions on how and where those allocations are invested by Departments are a matter, in the first instance, for my ministerial colleagues.

You will appreciate that the key role in leading development at county level rests with the relevant local authority. Under the umbrella of Project Ireland 2040, Government has allocated capital funding behind the national priorities set out in the National Planning Framework. Hence, all stakeholders have clarity as to the linkage between the increasing capital resource envelope and national policy principles.

That national framework is being converted into coherent regional and local authority plans. This is where those national principles will be turned in practical actions, while applying the principles of the Public Spending Code to ensure that resources are directed to the purposes that will deliver the best outcomes for the citizen.

Under the NPF, the three Regional Assemblies are now responsible for co-ordinating, promoting and supporting the strategic planning and sustainable development of their regions, consistent with the objectives of the NPF, through the preparation of Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies (RSES).  The strategy for the Northern and Western Region provides the opportunity for the priorities for Donegal, for example the priorities included in the existing County Development Plan, to be integrated into a regional investment plan which is expected to be a major driver of the implementation of the NPF.

I might also add that, as previously advised, my Department publishes a major capital projects tracker on the website of the Department, which sets out details of the key projects and programmes being implemented under the NDP, including the location of the projects where possible.  The Tracker includes a number of major projects directly related to Donegal.  The tracker currently focuses on projects and programmes with costs greater than €20 million.  While it does not provide an exhaustive list of all capital expenditure, the list of projects serves to highlight the diverse range of infrastructural demands competing for the resources of the State.

Finally, I wish to reiterate the point I made at the outset, which is that responsibility for the management and delivery of the individual investment projects, within the allocations agreed under the NDP, rests with the individual sponsoring Department in each case.  My Department's role is to set the overall capital allocations for the Departments and to authorize the delegated sanction arrangements under which those Departments make their spending decisions.

The tracker can be found at the following URL:

https://www.per.gov.ie/en/investment-projects-and-programmes-tracker/. 

Questions Nos. 65 to 68, inclusive, answered orally.

Question No. 69 answered with Question No. 66.

Public Sector Pensions

Questions (70)

Barry Cowen

Question:

70. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the efforts that have been made to incorporate retired public servants into the wider public pay discussions; if there are legislative reasons trade unions cannot represent retired public servants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49185/18]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

There is no formal mechanism to include recipients of public service pensions within the industrial relations framework and pay determination processes in the public service.

However, I can inform the Deputy that the interests and concerns of public service pensioners have been regularly articulated in meetings between the Alliance of Retired Public Servants and my Department. This engagement has also included meetings between the Alliance, myself and my predecessor. Through that process of engagement, I believe that public service pensioners have had, and continue to be afforded, a meaningful and direct means of articulating their concerns in relation to pensions and related issues. 

I would point out too that over the past number of years there have been notable pension improvements for many public service pensioners.

First, pensions in payment are benefiting significantly from the substantial reversal of the cuts to public service pensions above specified thresholds which were originally imposed by way of the Public Service Pension Reduction (PSPR) under the FEMPI legislation.

Second, as part of the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018 – 2020, the Government agreed a time-limited, conditions bound, return to the non-statutory, pay-linked method of pension adjustment which prevailed until the onset of the financial emergency. To that end, in January this year, my Department issued DPER Circular 02/2018 authorizing pension increases to qualifying public service pensions of the pay increases covering the 2018 to 2020 period under the PSSA, as legislated for in the Public Service Pay and Pensions Act 2017.

In conclusion, I can assure the Deputy that I and my Department are fully committed to maintaining the well-established dialogue with the Alliance of Retired Public Servants. Through ongoing recourse to that dialogue process, I believe that retired public servants and their representatives can be confident that their pension concerns will receive full and proper consideration as they have done in the past.

Office of Public Works

Questions (71)

Niamh Smyth

Question:

71. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the plans of the OPW to purchase property for State organisations in counties Cavan and Monaghan; the stages in negotiation for each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49192/18]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

As the question refers to matters which would be commercially sensitive, the Office of Public Works is unable to comment on any such plans.  Details of properties which are purchased for State organisations are normally made public when purchases have been completed. Generally when OPW is seeking to acquire a property or site it will trawl the market and advertise publicly. However, once negotiations commence on an individual property the details of such negotiation are not made public until the transaction is completed.

Departmental Funding

Questions (72)

Brendan Smith

Question:

72. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the projects that will be funded by his Department under the INTERREG and PEACE programmes in 2019; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49193/18]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

The 2014-2020 EU-funded PEACE and INTERREG programmes will invest over half a billion euros in the border region of Ireland and Northern Ireland over the course of the programming period. 

The programmes are managed by the Special EU Programmes Body, one of the North South implementation bodies established under the Good Friday Agreement.  My Department is joint sponsor Department for the Body and the two programmes, along with the Department of Finance in Northern Ireland, while various sectoral Departments, north and south, act as accountable Departments for funding.

The €270 million PEACE IV Programme is now 83% committed, with 88 projects approved for funding, included groups of projects under the Local Authority Peace Action Plans.  Projects in the fields of Shared Education, Children and Young People, Shared Spaces and Services, and Building Positive Relations will all be delivering real benefits on the ground in 2019.  The SEUPB is currently assessing funding applications for further Shared Spaces projects.

The €282 million INTERREG Programme is also making good progress, with 87% of funding committed to 32 projects in the fields of research and innovation, environment, sustainable transport and health and social care.  In addition, the SEUPB is currently assessing applications under the Sustainable Transport priority.

The Irish Government is firmly committed to the successful implementation of the current PEACE and INTERREG Programme and to a successor programme post-2020.  In that regard, I am pleased that the draft Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration give effect to last December's Joint Report in which the EU and UK undertook to honour their commitments to the current programmes and to examine favourably the possibilities for future support.  I also welcome the Commission's proposal for a special new PEACE PLUS programme post-2020 to build on and continue the work of both PEACE and INTERREG.

Question No. 73 answered with Question No. 63.

Departmental Properties

Questions (74)

John Curran

Question:

74. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if an audit of all lands and properties owned by his Department has been undertaken with a view to making suitable properties available for social and affordable housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49200/18]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

The Office of Public Works manage owned and leased properties held by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform and the Commissioners of Public Works. In accordance with DPER Circular 17/2016 – Policy for Property Acquisition and for the Disposal of Surplus Property the OPW keeps this portfolio of properties under regular review to identify property needs and properties that are now surplus to requirements. Properties identified as surplus are made known to other public sector bodies, including local authorities and more recently the Land Development Agency, using the State Property Register. No property can be disposed of until it is designated as surplus for at least one month on the State Property Register to allow for expressions of interest from other State bodies.   

All State bodies that have are involved in the provision of social and affordable housing have access to information on all properties managed by the OPW, be they properties that are used or are surplus. The OPW had a number of engagements with representatives of the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government regarding its property portfolio in the months before the establishment of the Land Development Agency (LDA).  Since the establishment of the LDA, the OPW has engaged directly with its officials on property-related matters. 

As you are aware, the LDA has a particular focus on securing land for social and affordable housing purposes and are examining the potential use of State held land, whether it is currently in use or designated as surplus. There is therefore a mechanism in place to ensure that property managed by the OPW which is suitable for social and affordable housing can be considered for that purpose.

Cross-Border Projects

Questions (75)

Brendan Smith

Question:

75. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the cross-Border co-ordination group established in 2009 by the OPW and the UK Department of Infrastructure has a particular programme of work underway or planned at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49201/18]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

The EU ‘Floods’ Directive 2007, requires the Member States to undertake a Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment to identify the areas of potentially significant flood risk within their territories, to prepare maps of the flood hazard and risk for these areas, and then to prepare Flood Risk Management Plans setting out measures aimed at managing and reducing the flood risk within these areas. The ‘Floods’ Directive also requires Member States to exchange information and coordinate in undertaking these steps in cross-border river basins.

In 2009 the Office of Public Works and the Department for Infrastructure, Rivers of Northern Ireland agreed to establish a Cross-Border Coordination Group, supported by a Cross-Border Technical Coordination Group, to facilitate the exchange of information and coordination in the implementation of the Floods Directive. The Group has met on a number of occasions, and exchanged information and developed a strong awareness of and appreciation for the approaches to implementation to the Directive. The Group has also facilitated close liaison for the assessment of flood risk and planned measures to address that risk for those areas near to the border, for example Lifford in Co. Donegal and Strabane in Northern Ireland.  

In addition, representatives from the OPW have attended and participated in relevant meetings in Northern Ireland during the implementation of the Directive. Similarly, representatives from the Department for Infrastructure, Rivers have been members of the Steering Groups for the relevant Catchment-based Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Projects, and are also members of the National Floods Directive Coordination Group that is chaired by the OPW. This has further helped ensure coordination and exchange of information on a regular basis at the strategic and operational levels.

More general cross-border coordination has also been ongoing in the field of flood risk management through bilateral meetings of the two organisations for many years, through the Irish National Hydrometric Working Group and Joint National Committee of the International Hydrological Programme and the International Commission for Irrigation and Drainage that the Department for Infrastructure, Rivers are members of. This continued close co-operation has provided the opportunity for co-operation in areas, such as flood forecasting and hydrometric monitoring.

Flood Relief Schemes Status

Questions (76)

Aindrias Moynihan

Question:

76. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when construction of the flood relief works on the Sullane River at Ballyvourney will be advanced; the remaining stages to bring the works to construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49194/18]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

I am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works that the Baile Mhúirne and Ballymakeera Flood Relief scheme is currently at outline design stage, and the preferred options for the scheme are in the process of being finalised.

The River Sullane has a history of freshwater pearl mussels, which have protected status as an Annex II listed species under the EU Habitats Directive. An environmental survey was carried out to establish the status of the population and the likely impact of any works.

Given the impact the proposed works could have on the Fresh Water Pearl Mussel population, a proposal to translocate Fresh Water Pearl Mussel from the River Sullane and re-introduce them post works was submitted to, and has now been approved by, the NPWS and the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, allowing the scheme preparations to progress to site investigation, which will inform the preferred options for the scheme.  A site investigation was completed in Q3 2018 and the results will further assist in determining the preferred options, and in refining construction cost estimates.

The emerging preferred option was presented to members of the public and relevant stakeholders at a second Public Information Day in March 2018. A public exhibition of the preferred scheme is expected to take place in spring 2019.

When these stages are successfully completed and, subject to the proposals being accepted by the public and the stakeholders, and the scheme being technically, environmentally and economically viable, the scheme will then proceed to formal Confirmation by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform under the Arterial Drainage Acts 1945 and 1995, and then move onto detailed design stage, following which the scheme can progress to construction stage.

In the interim, the OPW has approved funding of EUR187,248 for temporary flood defence works in Ballymakeera under its Minor Flood Mitigation Works & Coastal Protection Scheme.

My Office continues to liaise with Cork County Council and local representatives on this Scheme.

Legislative Measures

Questions (77)

Barry Cowen

Question:

77. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he expects the Public Service Superannuation (Age of Retirement) Bill 2018 to pass all Stages before Christmas; if he will consider backdating the qualification for application of the Bill to when the interim measures were announced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49184/18]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

As the Deputy will be aware, the Public Service Superannuation (Age of Retirement) Bill 2018, which was published on 9 July, passed all stages in the Seanad on 17 July. It passed Second Stage in the Dáil on 7 November and is provisionally scheduled for Committee Stage in the Dáil on 11 December.  While ultimately, the scheduling of the Bill in the Dáil is a matter for the Oireachtas, my intention is to secure enactment of the Bill as soon as possible. 

In relation to the backdating issue, I refer the Deputy to my response to his PQ 46505/18 of 13 November 2018.

Office of Government Procurement

Questions (78)

Joan Burton

Question:

78. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he is satisfied with the supervision of publicly funded construction contracts; the oversight he provides for such work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49205/18]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

As Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, I have responsibility for the formulation of policy, and the dissemination of best practice and guidance in public procurement.  The Capital Works Management Framework, (CWMF), managed by the Office of Government Procurement, provides the necessary tools for Contracting Authorities to ensure adequate supervision and oversight on construction projects.  This Framework is mandated for use on all capital funded construction projects. The provisions include the conditions of the Public Works Contract which outline the functions of the contract administrator; the Employer's Representative during the construction stage of a project as well as dedicated guidance, (Guidance Note 3.1-Implementation Process), on the management and oversight of the project once works commence.

The conditions of the public works contract provide the contractual tools necessary to ensure that a contractor completes a project to the required standard.  These include:

- Provision for inspections of the works whether they are executed on or off site;

- A prohibition on the covering up of work without notification to the Employer's Representative in advance;

- A requirement for all the materials and products that are to be incorporated into the works to be fit for their intended purpose and to meet the required standards;

- A fitness for purpose obligation on the works themselves in design and build contracts;

- The requirement for a detailed inspection notification framework and testing plan;

- An obligation on the contractor to keep the Employer’s Representative up to date on all matters related to the management and supervision of the works;

- To instruct the removal or replacement of works that are not completed in accordance with the specification; 

- Where work is not completed in accordance with the specification, to withhold payment until the matter is rectified;

- To appoint another contractor to rectify the works where the contractor fails to respond in a timely fashion;

The extent to which these tools are utilised and the resources associated will vary depending on a project’s scale and complexity and is a matter for the Contracting Authority with responsibility for the delivery of the project.

Coastal Erosion

Questions (79)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

79. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he has met with Fingal County Council to address the issue of coastal erosion in Portrane; if funding has been provided to prevent further erosion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48884/18]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

I am very familiar with the situation at Portrane and I have visited the area. Fingal County Council is leading on this issue, as it is a matter for local authorities in the first instance to assess and address problems of coastal erosion in their areas.  Where necessary, Local Authorities may put forward proposals to relevant central Government Departments, including the OPW, for funding of appropriate measures depending on the infrastructure or assets under threat.

In response to serious coastal erosion problems at The Burrow, Portrane, I am advised that Fingal County Council have completed implementing the interim emergency measures to protect properties at risk.  Funding of €456,464 has been approved under the OPW Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme for these works.

Fingal County Council are also progressing the preparation of the consultants brief for the long term solution which will be commissioned in the near future.

Office of Public Works Properties

Questions (80)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

80. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the properties which are vacant and are either owned or being rented by the Office of Public Works; the amount of rent paid to date on those vacant rented properties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48885/18]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

The Commissioners of Public Works, on behalf of the State, manage a large and diverse property portfolio, which ranges from office accommodation to heritage properties, visitor centres, Garda stations, among others.  As is typical of such large portfolios, there will always be a number of properties, at any given time, that are vacant.  These are currently being retained because of their future strategic development value. 

A list of non-operational properties currently vacant and owned or leased by the Commissioners is attached. 

The majority of the properties currently vacant are those Garda stations closed under the 2012/2013 policing plans of An Garda Síochána.  The remainder consists of properties such as customs posts, former coastguard stations and sundry other properties located throughout the country. 

The future use of the former Garda stations is under review, in consultation with An Garda Síochána. 

There are two rented/leased properties that are currently vacant.  These are as follows:

1. Waterford Customs Store, Tramore Road, Waterford 

This is a warehouse previously used by the Revenue Commissioners.  Despite efforts to find an alternative use for the property, it has been vacant since 2005 and the Landlord is not interested in an early surrender.  The annual rent paid is €145,005.

2. 12 Clare Street, Dublin 2

The building at 12 Clare Street was occupied by the Department of Finance and Department of Public Expenditure & Reform until early August 2018.  Prior to any re-occupation by another entity, significant works will be required to the building. 

County	Property	Property Type	Current Status
			Garda stations closed under the 2012 and 2013 Policing plans (53)
Cavan	Ardagh	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Cavan	Redhills	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Clare	Broadford	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Clare	Doonbeg	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Clare	Inagh	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Clare	Lahinch	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Clare	Quin	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Cork	Adrigole	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Cork	Ballyfeard	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Cork	Ballygurteen	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Cork	Goleen	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Cork	Knocknagree	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Cork	Rathduff	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Cork City	McCurtain Street	Garda Station	Alternative State use being examined
Donegal	Malin	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Donegal	Na Brocacha / Cloghan	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Dublin	Dalkey	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Dublin	Kill O'The Grange	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Galway	Ballymoe	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Galway	Corrandulla	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Galway	Kilconly	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Galway	Kiltullagh	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Galway	Leenane	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Kerry	Brosna	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Kerry	Camp	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Kerry	Kilgarvan	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Kerry	Moyvane	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Leitrim	Dromahair	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Leitrim	Drumkeeran	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Leitrim	Glenfarne	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Leitrim	Keshcarrigan	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Limerick	Castletown Conyers	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Limerick	Galbally	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Limerick	Kilfinane	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Limerick	Mary Street	Garda Station	Intre State transfer to Limerick City and Co. Co.
Limerick	Shanagolden	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Longford	Ballinalee	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Mayo	Ballyglass	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Mayo	Bellacorrick	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Mayo	Blacksod	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Mayo	Hollymount	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Monaghan	Clontibret	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Monaghan	Corrinshigagh	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Monaghan	Newbliss	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Monaghan	Smithborough	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Roscommon	Ballintubber	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Roscommon	Ballyforan	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Roscommon	Knockcroghery	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Roscommon	Tarmonbarry	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Sligo	Cliffoney	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Tipperary	New Inn (Tipperary)	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Waterford	Ballyduff	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
Wicklow	Hollywood	Garda Station	Subject to a review of closed stations
	Other former Garda stations (11)
Cavan	Stradone	Garda Station	Being prepared for disposal
Cork City	Ballyhooley Rd, Cork	Garda Station	Being prepared for disposal
Donegal	Bunbeg	Garda Station	Community interest.
Donegal	Buncrana	Garda Station	Intra State transfer to Donegal Co. Co.
Galway	Maam	Garda Station	Being prepared for disposal
Kildare	Rathangan	Garda Station	Being prepared for disposal
Kilkenny	Castlecomer	Garda Station	Intra State transfer to Kilkenny Co. Co.
Limerick	Edward Street	Garda Station	Intra State transfer to Limerick City and Co. Co.
Limerick	Mayorstone Park	Garda Station	Intra State transfer to Limerick City and Co. Co.
Mayo	Ballina	Garda Station	Being prepared for disposal
Sligo	Ballymote	Garda Station	Being prepared for disposal
	Former Garda residences (9)
Cork	13 Woodville, Blarney	Residence	Being prepared for disposal
Cork	Buttevant	Residence	Intra State transfer to the HSE.
Donegal	Castlefin	Residence	Alternative State use being examined.
Offaly	Kinnitty	Residence	Community Interest
Tipperary	The Mall, Templemore	Residence	Intra State transfer to Tipperary Co. Co.
Tipperary	The Mall, Templemore	Residence	Intra State transfer to Tipperary Co. Co.
Tipperary	The Mall, Templemore	Residence	Intra State transfer to Tipperary Co. Co.
Tipperary	Church Ave, Templemore	Residence	Intra State transfer to Tipperary Co. Co.
Tipperary	Church Ave, Templemore	Residence	Intra State transfer to Tipperary Co. Co.
	Coastguard Properties (7)
Cork	Crosshaven	Cottage	Intre State transfer to Cork County Council.
Cork	Crosshaven	Cottage	Intre State transfer to Cork County Council.
Cork	Crosshaven	Cottage	Intre State transfer to Cork County Council.
Cork	Crosshaven	Cottage	Intre State transfer to Cork County Council.
Cork	Crosshaven	Cottage	Intre State transfer to Cork County Council.
Cork	Crosshaven	Cottage	Intre State transfer to Cork County Council.
Cork	Crosshaven	Cottage	Intre State transfer to Cork County Council.
	Miscellaneous Buildings (16)
Cork	Clonakilty	Agricultural College & Office	Alternative State use being examined
Cork	8 Harbour Road, Cobh	DSP office	Alternative State use being examined
Dublin	10/11 Castle Street	Building	Retained for strategic purposes.
Dublin	Halston Street.	Building	Alternative State use being examined
Kilkenny	Freshford Road	Met Station	Intra State transfer to Kilkenny Co. Co.
Leitrim	Manorhamilton	Customs Stn	Alternative State use being examined
Limerick	Cecil Street	Building	Intra State transfer to Limerick City and Co. Co.
Limerick	Mallow Street	Building	Intra State transfer to Limerick City and Co. Co.
Louth	Dundalk former Employment Exchange	Building	Intra State transfer to Louth County Council.
Louth	Drogheda - 62/63 West Street	Building	Intra State transfer to Louth County Council.
Meath	Enfield	Former ESB building	Intra State transfer to Meath Co. Co. being considered.
Meath	Navan (Kells Road)	Government Buildings	Intra State transfer to Meath Co. Co. being considered.
Monaghan	Innisshannon	Customs Hut	Alternative State use being examined
Offaly	Birr	Met Station	Being prepared for disposal.
Tipperary	Dromard House (Residence)	Templemore	Acquired for AGS.
Waterford	Ardmore	Building	Future use under consideration..
	Leased property (2)
Waterford	Tramore Road	Warehouse	Rent €32,505 per annum
Dublin	12 Clare Street	Office	Rent €112,500 per annum

In addition, there are a limited number of sundry residential dwellings that are intrinsic to the estates of National Parks and Gardens managed by the Office of Public Works. In general, these are allocated to staff where there is a requirement for officials to be present on the ground. There are a number of these currently vacant due to the poor condition of the properties.