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Tuesday, 4 Dec 2018

Written Answers Nos. 95-117

Employment Data

Questions (95)

Charlie McConalogue

Question:

95. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Taoiseach the additional jobs added in the 12 months to the third quarter of 2018 in County Donegal as per the latest labour force survey. [50512/18]

View answer

Written answers

The exact information requested by the Deputy is not available.

The Labour Force Survey (LFS) is the official source of estimates of employment in the State. The most recent figures available are for Q3 2018.

Due to methodology and sample size it is not possible to produce reliable Donegal County estimates from the LFS.

Estimates of employment, however are produced by NUTS 3 Regions.

The NUTS 3 Border region includes counties Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim, Monaghan and Sligo.

The following table shows the number of persons aged 15 years and over in employment classified by NUTS 3 Border region in Q3 2017 and Q3 2018 and the annual change.

As the table shows the overall stock of persons employed at given points in time, the annual change which is calculated using these stock figures depends both on the number of jobs lost and jobs created over the period in question. The LFS does not record whether a job is newly created.

No. of employed persons (ILO) aged 15 years and over classified by NUTS3 Border region, Q3 2017 and Q3 2018 - Annual change

'000

Q3 17

Q3 18

Annual Change

In employment

180.4

178.3

-2.2

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS), Central Statistics Office, Ireland.

Data may be subject to future revision.

Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.

Reference period: Q3 July-Sept.

Employment Data

Questions (96)

Robert Troy

Question:

96. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Taoiseach the additional jobs added in the 12 months to the third quarter of 2018 in County Westmeath from the latest labour force survey. [50511/18]

View answer

Written answers

The exact information requested by the Deputy is not available.

The Labour Force Survey (LFS) is the official source of estimates of employment in the State. The most recent figures available are for Q3 2018.

Due to methodology and sample size it is not possible to produce reliable Westmeath County estimates from the LFS.

Estimates of employment, however are produced by NUTS 3 Regions.

The NUTS 3 Midland region includes counties Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath.

The following table shows the number of persons aged 15 years and over in employment classified by NUTS 3 Midland region in Q3 2017 and Q3 2018 and the annual change.

As the table shows the overall stock of persons employed at given points in time, the annual change which is calculated using these stock figures depends both on the number of jobs lost and jobs created over the period in question. The LFS does not record whether a job is newly created.

No. of employed persons (ILO) aged 15 years and over classified by NUTS3 Midland region, Q3 2017 and Q3 2018 - Annual change

'000

Q3 17

Q3 18

Annual Change

In employment

119.3

127.2

7.9

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS), Central Statistics Office, Ireland.

Data may be subject to future revision.

Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.

Reference period: Q3 July-Sept.

Departmental Expenditure

Questions (97)

Fiona O'Loughlin

Question:

97. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Taoiseach the amount that was spent monthly on making videos since he became Taoiseach; and the campaigns, names and amounts spent on same. [50057/18]

View answer

Written answers

In communicating the work of Government, it is important to provide information to citizens in a manner in which they wish to receive it, which includes the medium of video.

The following is the breakdown of costs which have been processed by my Department relating to video production from June 2017 to November 2018. Note that amounts represent payments fully processed through the finance system. There may be some outstanding payments relating to invoices which have yet to be presented.

Campaigns include: Healthy Ireland; Self-Employed Benefits; Project Ireland 2040; Luas Cross-City Launch video; Global Ireland; Legislation video; Ireland.ie; Rugby World Cup bid; Budget 2018; Back to School; and 25th Anniversary of the decriminalisation of homosexuality.

Monthly breakdown

Mar-Nov 17

Dec-17

Jan-18

Feb-18

Mar-18

Apr-18

May-18

Jun-18

Jul-18

Aug-18

Sep-18

Oct-18

Nov-18

Amt.

n/a

29,956.65

n/a

121,191.90

109,260.30

43,439.91

28,413.00

1,881.90

n/a

61,940.07

24,265.13

n/a

47,056.42

Campaign breakdown

Self-Employed Benefits

Healthy Ireland

Project Ireland 2040

Global Ireland

Luas Cross-city launch

Legislation Video

Ireland.ie

Rugby World Cup Campaign

Budget 2018

Back to School 2017

Global Footprint launch

25th Anniversary of the decriminalisation of homosexuality

Budget 2019

The Pope visit to Ireland

13,351.65

31,555.65

146,680.59

136022.01

5,584.20

24412.73

1881.9

21,227.07

10,947.00

9,717.00

20,049.00

13,314.75

19,346.98

13314.75

Departmental Funding

Questions (98)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

98. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Taoiseach the amount of funding or grant aid or both that his Department has made to an association (details supplied) from 1 January 2008 to 2017, and to date in 2018; the purpose for which the funding and-or grant aid was released; and if the way in which the funding and-or grant aid is used is audited. [50073/18]

View answer

Written answers

My Department has not provided any funding or grant aid to this association from 1 January 2008 to date.

Departmental Contracts Data

Questions (99)

Barry Cowen

Question:

99. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Taoiseach the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department in each of the years from March 2011 to 2017, and to date in 2018; the cost of same; the company involved; and the title and publication date by report, in tabular form. [50103/18]

View answer

Written answers

The following table details the external consultant reports commissioned by my Department in each of the years from March 2011 to 2017 and to date in 2018.

Name

Costs

Date of Commission

Date of Publication

Consultant

Health and Safety Statement 2011

€1,270

2011

2011

QTS Ltd

Health and Safety Statement 2012

€1,270

2012

2012

QTS Ltd

Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan Assessment and Disabled Access Review

€307

2013

2013

QTS Ltd

Health and Safety Statement 2013 and Risk Assessment

€1,783

2013

2013

QTS Ltd

Local Diaspora Toolkit

€14,300

2015

2015

Clinton Institute UCD

Getting smarter about smart cities: Improving data privacy and data security

€14,058

2015

2015

Maynooth University

Dublin’s North East Inner City

€11,800

2016

2017

Kieran Mulvey

Historical Research Project

€2,608

2017

2017

University College Dublin

Health and Safety Statement 2017 and Risk Assessment

€2,583

2017

2017

Quadra

Question No. 100 answered with Question No. 1.

Departmental Contracts Data

Questions (101)

Kate O'Connell

Question:

101. Deputy Kate O'Connell asked the Taoiseach the number of contracts and-or tenders that have been awarded to a company (details supplied); the value of these contracts, that is, the amount the company has been paid; the services the contracts were for; and the number of public sector and-or publicly funded catering facilities being run by the company. [50370/18]

View answer

Written answers

My Department has not awarded any contracts or tenders to the company in question.

Departmental Funding

Questions (102)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

102. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the amount of funding and-or grant aid his Department has made to an association (details supplied) from 1 January 2008 to 2017, and to date in 2018; the purpose for which the funding and-or grant aid was released to the association; if the way in which the funding or grant aid or both is audited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50063/18]

View answer

Written answers

My Department has not issued any funding or grant aid to the Association referred to by the Deputy during the period from 1 January 2008 to date.

Departmental Contracts Data

Questions (103)

Barry Cowen

Question:

103. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department in each of the years from March 2011 to 2017 and to date in 2018; the cost of same; the company involved; and the report title and publication date, in tabular form. [50093/18]

View answer

Written answers

The following table provides details of the external consultant reports commissioned by my Department in each of the years March 2011 to 2017 and to date in 2018; the costs of those reports; the companies commissioned to completed the reports; and their titles and publication dates.

Report Title

Cost

Year of Commission

External Company

Publication Date

An independent review of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) fatalities in 1989

€51,660

2011

Mr. Frank Callinan S.C.

19 September 2011

Third Report of Independent Monitoring Group (IMG)

€22,500

2013

Dr. Eileen Doyle

3 September 2014

Consultancy report to access the impact of an upgrade of the Department's financial application software

€24,870.60

2014

Fujitsu Ltd.

30 January 2015

Research on vessels linked to Roger Casement

€4,605

2015

Mr. John Kearon

Not published

Independent Review of the investigation of the death of Pte Hugh Doherty and the disappearance of Pte Kevin Joyce (Caomhán Seoighe) on 27 April 1981 while serving with IrishBatt in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL)

€33,665.55

(total cost, including editing fees of €1,500)

2015

Retired High Court Judge Mr. Roderick Murphy.

Editing work conducted by Mr. Jim Blighe

8 June 2018

Aviation Regulation, Oversight and Safety Management in the Defence Organisation

€35,000

2017

Bureau Veritas

Not published

Report on the Review of the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme for Members of the Permanent Defence Forces

€6,000

2018

Mr. Gerard Barry

2 October 2018

The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 42A
On 4 December 2018, the Deputy asked the following Parliamentary Question:
"To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department in each of the years March 2011 to 2017 and to date in 2018: the cost of same; the company involved; and the title and publication date by report in tabular form." (PQ Ref No 50093/18)
In response I provided a table with details of external consultant reports commissioned by the Department of Defence in each of the years from March 2011 to 2017 and to 4 December 2018. The table also included the costs of those reports, details of the companies commissioned to complete the reports and their titles and publication dates.
It has now come to my attention that in preparing the reply to your question details of one further external consultant's report was omitted. The report in question was a review of communications in Civil Defence. The report was completed in 2016 by Mr. Ciaran Motherway at a cost of €1,400.
The omission of this information on 4 December last was due entirely to an administrative oversight in preparing the reply. Please accept my apologies in this regard and I can confirm that I have directed that revised arrangements are put in place within my Department to ensure something similar cannot reoccur in the future. I have already sent the above information to the Oireachtas Questions Office asking that it update the response previously provided to Parliamentary Question 50093/18 so that the reply on the record reflects the accurate position.

Defence Forces Properties

Questions (104)

Bríd Smith

Question:

104. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the reason he has withdrawn from a promised arrangement to allow persons (details supplied) to purchase their homes; the arrangements he plans to put in place to secure the homes of these persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50214/18]

View answer

Written answers

The matter of the proposed sale of the former married quarters at Cathal Brugha Barracks has been on going for some time now. During this period, it emerged that there were legal difficulties in selling the properties as originally intended. In December 2016, the Chief State Solicitors Office met with the residents' legal advisers to outline the issues arising and, in order to resolve the matter, invited proposals as to how the sales could be facilitated. I am advised that this approach did not yield any viable proposals.

Having taken into consideration the advice of the Chief State Solicitor's Office, my officials have been left with no alternative but to formally withdraw from proceeding with the proposed sales. On the 1st November 2018 the Chief State Solicitor's Office wrote to the legal representatives of the occupiers advising them accordingly. As part of this communication my Department have indicated that it is intended to regularise the current occupancies of those people who were the subject of the original sales offer.

Defence Forces Pensions

Questions (105)

James Browne

Question:

105. Deputy James Browne asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the position regarding affording retired soldiers a pay rise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50225/18]

View answer

Written answers

The position is that the Public Service Stability Agreement (PSSA) 2018-2020 provides for a series of increases in basic pay for public servants, including 1% from 1 January 2018 and a further 1% from 1 October 2018. The PSSA also sets out the policy on public service pension increases as adopted by Government for the duration of that agreement to end-2020, whereby some public service pensions qualify to be increased on foot of those pay increases.

Due to the 2010 public service pay cuts and the ‘grace period’ protections associated with those reductions, former public servants who retired before 1 March 2012 have their pensions based on higher ‘pre-cut’ salary levels. This has led to the situation whereby those who retired since 1 March 2012, on a like-for-like basis, generally receive lower pensions than their counterparts who retired before them.

Under Section 6.2 of the PSSA, a guiding principle of current pension increase policy is the need to adopt an equitable approach whereby those who retired since 1 March 2012 first ‘catch up’ with their counterparts who retired before them on higher pension rates. The policy out to end-2020 also provides that the benefit of the PSSA pay increases will be passed on to qualifying pre-March 2012 pensioners, but only where the pensions of those who retired since March 2012 with analogous retiring rank, pensionable service etc. have moved ahead of their pre-March 2012 retirees.

In effect, for pensions payable under ‘pre-2013’ public service pension schemes including the Defence Forces (i.e. pre-Single Pension Scheme), current policy means a limited resumption of the pre-FEMPI non-statutory ‘pay parity’ model, under which pension rates rose in line with pay increases.

As regards military pensioners who retired since 1 March 2012, I am advised that, generally speaking, the benefit of the recent pay increases including the 1% from 1 January 2018 and 1% from 1 October 2018 under the PSSA has now been passed on (with arrears) to those concerned, including any associated dependants. A small residual number of qualifying pensioners will get the benefit with their December 2018 monthly pension.

Ministerial Meetings

Questions (106)

Niall Collins

Question:

106. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the public events, by county, that he attended since 1 May to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50280/18]

View answer

Written answers

The following table contains details of the Defence-related public events that I attended in my capacity as Minister of State with responsibility for Defence in the period 1 May to 29 November 2018.

COUNTY

EVENT

DATE

Carlow

Graduation ceremony at Institute of Technology Carlow

1 November 2018

Cork

HRH Prince Charles visit to Haulbowline Naval Base, Cork

14 June 2018

Cork

Naval Service Commissioning

22 June 2018

Cork

LÉ James Joyce returning from the Med

27 October 2018

Dublin

Arbour Hill Ceremony Dublin

9 May 2018

Dublin

Veterans' Day, Collins Barracks

13 May 2018

Dublin

Mass in Arbour Hill

24 June 2018

Dublin

UN60 Commemoration Dublin Castle

24 June 2018

Dublin

Launch of Fuchsia ONE Appeal

27 June 2018

Dublin

National Day of Commemoration

8 July 2018

Dublin

Unveiling of Commemorative stone at Glasnevin Cemetary

27 July 2018

Dublin

Wreath laying at Glasnevin Cemetary

19 August 2018

Dublin

Pope's Visit

25 August 2018

Dublin

Pope's Visit

26 August 2018

Dublin

DSM Presentation

4 September 2018

Dublin

UNDOF Review, Cathal Brugha

19 September 2018

Dublin

Prime Time RTÉ

2 October 2018

Dublin

Defence Forces Annual Gala Concert, National Concert Hall

20 October 2018

Dublin

Air Corps Commissioning Baldonnel

2 November 2018

Dublin

Inauguration of President

11 November 2018

Dublin

Civil Defence Awarding of Drone Licences

24 November 2018

Dublin

Irish Red Cross Ball

24 November 2018

Galway

113 Battalion Review, Galway

26 October 2018

Kildare

Cadet Class Intake, Curragh

24 September 2018

Louth

UNIFIL Review, Dundalk

2 May 2018

Mayo

PDFORRA Conference

3 October 2018

Westmeath

Opening of ONE Centre in Athlone

17 October 2018

Wexford

ONE Annual Mass in Wexford

27 May 2018

Defence Forces Personnel

Questions (107)

Clare Daly

Question:

107. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces has the same power as the Garda Commissioner in terms of the organisation of work and working times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50336/18]

View answer

Written answers

Civil and military staff in the Department of Defence have worked closely together on examining issues arising for the Defence Forces related to the Working Time Directive. Military management are fully engaged in this process and a Military Board is currently undertaking further work on this matter.

As I have previously informed the House, a Government Decision dated 18 November 2016 approved the drafting of the Heads of Bill to amend the Organisation of Working Time Act, 1997. This will remove the blanket exclusions contained in Section 3 of the Act.

Work is underway in Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection in conjunction with both the Department of Defence and Department of Justice and Equality towards the progression of this decision. In this context, the process for amending the legislation is the same for both the Defence Forces and an Garda Síochána. This is a work in process and it would be premature to comment on the outcome at this point.

There has been engagement on the Working Time Directive between Defence management and the Defence Forces' Representative Associations, within the framework of the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme. There will be further engagement in this regard.

Air Corps

Questions (108)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

108. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if a report on the use of Trikelone N in the Air Corps workshop compiled in 2014 by the formation safety office of the Air Corps was made available to the independent person (details supplied) appointed to investigate health and safety matters in the Air Corps; if not, the reason it was not available to them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50343/18]

View answer

Written answers

The report of the independent person appointed to investigate health and safety matters in the Air Corps is published and available on my Department's website. Appendix C of that report lists documents and materials consulted and reviewed by him.

The document, to which the Deputy refers, is the subject of legal advice and in light of ongoing litigation, I am not in a position to comment further.

Departmental Contracts Data

Questions (109)

Kate O'Connell

Question:

109. Deputy Kate O'Connell asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of contracts and-or tenders that have been awarded to a company (details supplied); the amount the company has been paid; the services provided; and the number of public sector and-or publicly funded catering facilities being run by the company. [50360/18]

View answer

Written answers

My Department has no contracts, nor has awarded any tenders, to that company.

Notwithstanding this, there is an arrangement in place for the payment of the costs for meals provided to military personnel participating in courses in some external training establishments. In a number of these establishments the canteen facilities are provided by Aramark and Aramark claim recoupment from the Department of the costs of the meals provided to military personnel.

Suicide Incidence

Questions (110)

Pat Buckley

Question:

110. Deputy Pat Buckley asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of suicides recorded among members of the Defence Forces in the past three years, respectively; if no number is recorded, his plans to compile such information on members' health; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50567/18]

View answer

Written answers

I am advised by the military authorities that the Defence Forces are not in a position to provide the information requested in relation to death by suicide. All sudden deaths must be reported to the relevant Coroner's Office. It is a matter for the Coroner to decide whether a post mortem should be conducted and to determine the cause of death.

The health and welfare of the men and women of the Defence Forces is a high priority for me. The Defence Forces Personnel Support Service (PSS) provides a welfare, information, psycho-social support and referral service to serving members of the Defence Forces, their families, civilian employees and in a limited role to veterans. This service sustains and enhances the individual well-being of personnel, and promotes a safe and positive work culture, in order to support the effectiveness of the Defence Forces. The service is delivered through a network of military Barrack Personnel Support Service Officers (BPSSO) and civilian Occupational Social Workers (OSW). The Defence Forces, through the PSS engage in extensive suicide awareness and education programmes for all members of the Defence Forces.

These programmes include:

- Issuing an "Information Guide on Mental Health and Wellbeing in the Defence Forces";

- Issuing and giving presentations on "Defence Forces Guidelines on Suicide";

- Running courses on "Suicide and Self Harm";

- Providing access to "Mental Fitness" programmes through the Defence Forces Intranet;

- Providing WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) training;

- Conducting STORM (Skills Training on Risk Management in suicide and self harm mitigation) training with all overseas units;

- Providing ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) training in conjunction with the HSE;

- Conducting Safe Talk training within the Defence Forces;

- Providing CISM (Critical Incident Stress Management) training; and

- Issuing a PSS Booklet entitled "Defence Forces Suicide and Self-Harm Prevention".

In addition, an independent and strictly confidential 24 hour care-line, manned by trained counsellors, is available to all Defence Forces personnel.

Defence Forces Medical Services

Questions (111)

Pat Buckley

Question:

111. Deputy Pat Buckley asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the efforts he and the Defence Forces have made to provide mental health supports for Defence Forces personnel. [50568/18]

View answer

Written answers

The health and welfare of the men and women of the Defence Forces is a high priority of mine and of my Department. Mental health supports are part of a range of medical and non-medical services provided to ensure that Defence Forces personnel are medically fit to undertake the duties assigned to them.

Medical mental health services available to personnel include access to clinical psychology and psychiatry services. The Psychology service assesses, diagnoses, treats and advises on strategies to prevent mental health disorders. Psychiatry services specialise in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness.

There are currently two Clinical Psychologists employed by the Defence Forces. Psychiatry services were until recently provided in-house by a military psychiatrist. This position is currently vacant with interim services being provided through a combination of external public and private services; however, efforts are continuing to recruit a full-time psychiatrist to provide an in-house service. It must be stressed that there is no delay in referring patients requiring immediate psychiatric care or assessment.

In addition to these clinical supports, non-medical mental health services are provided by the Defence Forces Personnel Support Service (PSS). The Defence Forces Personnel Support Service (PSS) provides a welfare, information, psycho-social support and referral service to serving members of the Defence Forces and their families. The service is also available to civilian employees, and in a limited role to veterans. This service sustains and enhances the individual well-being of personnel, and promotes a safe and positive work culture, in order to support the effectiveness of the Defence Forces.

The service is delivered through a network of military Barrack Personnel Support Service Officers (BPSSO) and civilian Occupational Social Workers (OSW). This network of professionals is prepared to provide immediate help to service personnel and their families in a routine environment or at a time of crisis. This assistance can range from the simple provision of information to counselling or, if required, signposting and referral to specialist help and assistance.

Furthermore, the assistance may include providing psychosocial support, counselling and information & assistance services on a variety of issues, including relationships, general finances, addiction, retirement (including pensions and gratuities), housing, taxation and PRSI and much more.

In addition, my Department funds a confidential counselling, referral and support service for serving members of the Defence Forces, civilian employees and Civil Defence volunteers. The service provides confidential counselling on a wide range of personal and work related issues, including but not limited to health, relationships, addictions, financial, bereavement, stress, conflict, critical incident and trauma. In the case of relationship counselling, the spouse or partner may also attend the counselling sessions.

A Freephone confidential helpline is available on a 24/7 basis 365 days a year. The helpline is staffed by fully-trained and experienced counsellors. The helpline provides for referral to appointment-based telephone or face-to-face counselling. Face-to-face counselling is provided on a national basis, i.e. in locations around the country. Written (e-mail and letter) access to the service is also provided.

Telecommunications Infrastructure

Questions (112)

Mattie McGrath

Question:

112. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if security services here have assessed the threat to State security posed by Chinese firms (details supplied); if he has sought the advice of security services in other EU member states, the United States of America, Australia or Canada on same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50966/18]

View answer

Written answers

The Deputy will appreciate that policy in respect of telecommunications is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment. I can assure the Deputy that the security of the State and the people is a matter of the highest priority for the Government. It would not be in the public interest to detail the measures that are taken by our authorities in this area. What I can say is that considerable resources are deployed by the Garda Authorities, supported by the skills and expertise of the Defence Forces, in combating threats to our security. The authorities here work very closely on an on-going basis with their international counterparts in identifying and managing any threats arising.

Telecommunications Infrastructure

Questions (113)

Mattie McGrath

Question:

113. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on whether Chinese technology companies (details supplied) pose a threat to State security; if so, the work that has been done to mitigate this risk; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50967/18]

View answer

Written answers

The Deputy will appreciate that policy in respect of telecommunications is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment. I can assure the Deputy that the security of the State and the people is a matter of the highest priority for the Government. It would not be in the public interest to detail the measures that are taken by our authorities in this area. What I can say is that considerable resources are deployed by the Garda Authorities, supported by the skills and expertise of the Defence Forces, in combating threats to our security. The authorities here work very closely on an on-going basis with their international counterparts in identifying and managing any threats arising.

Brexit Issues

Questions (114)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

114. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the degree to which he remains satisfied regarding the adequacy of the various forms of infrastructure to meet the challenges arising from Brexit in the context of maximising trading opportunities and innovation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50849/18]

View answer

Written answers

The Government is under no illusions about the scale of the challenge posed by Brexit. We have already taken important steps to prepare the economy for the change that Brexit will bring, including the Action Plan for Jobs 2018, our Trade and Investment Strategy and Project Ireland 2040.

The Government has taken a number of key decisions to ensure that the necessary customs controls and Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) checks required as a result of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, are in place to address the impacts of Brexit on trade on an East-West basis. Most recently, on 27 November, I updated the Government on progress on the necessary facilities and infrastructure for such checks and controls at Dublin Port, Rosslare Port and Dublin Airport.

Dedicated measures to get Ireland Brexit ready were announced in 2017, 2018 and 2019. Budget 2019 measures included the introduction of a new longer-term loan scheme of up to €300 million, the Future Growth Loan Scheme, to support strategic capital investment for a post-Brexit environment by business. This scheme will be jointly funded by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. This is in addition to announcements in previous budgets where over €450 million was allocated in business supports, including Budget 2018’s €300 million Brexit Loan Scheme for Business.

Budget 2019 also included an allocation of €115 million for Brexit measures across a number of Departments. This includes a €25 million allocation for essential customs requirements. There is also increased funding to the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to enable them to continue to address the challenges posed by Brexit across a range of headings, including supports for our Enterprise Agencies and for our Global Ireland’ – Ireland’s Global Footprint to 2025 strategy. This strategy will support the opening of new markets for our businesses and a higher international profile. Increased funding to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has already provided for the opening of 13 new diplomatic missions as part of Global Ireland 2025, which will contribute to helping our exporters find new markets. As well as addressing the challenge of Brexit, our trade and investment strategy Ireland Connected: Trading and Investing in a Dynamic World has at its core our ongoing commitment to the EU and access to a Single Market of 27 Member States with 450 million people post Brexit, as well as access to a further 53 markets under EU Free Trade Agreements.

The funding provided to Departments in Budget 2019 includes a €78m package for farmers, fishermen, food SMEs and to cover additional costs related to Brexit. This package includes dedicated funds to support infrastructure and innovation, including: €6 million in funding to progress an €8m Food Innovation Hub in Teagasc Moorepark; €13m in supports for food industry competitiveness and innovation; €4m for the commencement of a phased process of recruitment of additional staff to carry out the greatly increased volumes of import controls and export certification arising from Brexit; and an initial provision of just over €3m to address ICT hardware and software requirements.

Good long-term planning supported by investment in Ireland’s public capital infrastructure also has an important to play is ensuring the resilience of Ireland’s economy in the face of Brexit. The National Development Plan (NDP) 2018 – 2027 comprises an investment programme of €116 billion. Investments which will be particularly relevant to Brexit include the integration of transport, energy and communications networks; new resources for tourism development and promotion; and supporting Brexit-exposed firms to diversify to international markets.

The Government and state agencies are also working hard to fully exploit any opportunities from Brexit. This includes promoting Ireland as an English speaking member of the EU with unfettered access to the EU market, and as a preferred destination for inward investment.

Departmental Funding

Questions (115)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

115. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the amount of funding or grant aid his Department has made to an association (details supplied) from 1 January 2008 to 2017 and to date in 2018; the purpose for which the funding or grant aid was released to the association; if the way in which the funding or grant aid or both is used is audited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50067/18]

View answer

Written answers

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has funded the Football Association of Ireland during the period 2017 to date through both the Emigrant Support Programme and the Reconciliation Fund.

The UK Welfare Officer programme was established in 2008 and was supported jointly by the Football Association of Ireland and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's

The programme provided assistance, support, advice and counselling services to Irish players aged 16+ that moved to the UK to become involved in the UK professional football game.

To ensure ongoing quality control, and in addition to ongoing monitoring and evaluation of projects based on reporting by organisations and visits by Missions, the Department commissions a number of on-site, external audits each year. As set out in the 2015, Global Irish: Ireland's Diaspora Policy, we are working to commit 1% of the ESP budget to quality assurance, including the annual programme of evaluation and audits.

The following table lists the total amount of funding granted through the ESP to the FAI since 2008.

Transaction Date

Description

Transaction Amount

Name

16/05/2008

ESP grant FAI 2008

50,000

Emigrant Support Programme, IAU

25/11/2009

ESP grant FAI 2009

50,000

Emigrant Support Programme, IAU

09/08/2010

ESP grant FAI 2010

42,000

Emigrant Support Programme, IAU

05/08/2011

ESP grant FAI 2011

42,000

Emigrant Support Programme, IAU

17/12/2012

ESP grant FAI 2012

35,000

Emigrant Support Programme, IAU

26/07/2013

ESP grant FAI 2013

42,000

Emigrant Support Programme, IAU

11/12/2014

ESP grant FAI 2014

42,844

Emigrant Support Programme, IAU

07/12/2015

ESP grant FAI 2015

55,000

Emigrant Support Programme, IAU

05/12/2016

ESP grant FAI 2016

55,000

Emigrant Support Programme, IAU

TOTAL

413,844

In addition, in 2008 the Reconciliation Fund supported the FAI with a grant of €25,000 towards an all-island coaching conference for over 400 voluntary grassroots football coaches, organised in partnership with the Irish Football Association. The conference aimed to provide an opportunity for coaches to network on a cross-border basis, and to engage with Irish and international coaches in talks and practical sessions to assist in the development of young players, both male and female. It aimed to promote meaningful cross-border links by encouraging both associations to work together to deliver a conference which would also provide coaches from across the island with the opportunity to network and establish relationships.

All grantees awarded funding through the Reconciliation Fund are required under the grant's terms of agreement to submit a post-grant narrative and financial report demonstrating how the grant was spent, as well as the organisation's accounts for the relevant year clearly showing the grant as a separate item of income. The grant's terms of agreement provide for auditing spot-checks to be undertaken by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on a number of grants made through the Reconciliation Fund in a given year. The Comptroller and Auditor General also carries out a number of spot-checks on Reconciliation Fund grant payments on an annual basis.

Transaction Date

Description

Transaction Amount

Name

20/06/2008

T1 2008 – FAI

25,000

Reconciliation Fund, IUKA

TOTAL

25,000

Departmental Contracts Data

Questions (116)

Barry Cowen

Question:

116. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department in each of the years from March 2011 to 2017 and to date in 2018; the cost of same; the company involved; and the report title and publication date, in tabular form. [50097/18]

View answer

Written answers

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is responsible for two votes - Vote 28 (Foreign Affairs and Trade) and Vote 27 (International Cooperation).

The Department commissions external expertise where highly specialised skills are not available within the Department and in particular where ongoing independent evaluation of programmes and projects is required. During the course of their engagement, these consultants and experts may prepare reports and other documentation for the Department.

In-depth analysis of issues by external experts has informed, and continues to inform, the Department’s policies, allowing for a more targeted use of resources and greater accountability in the allocation of budgets.

These services are procured by open competitive tendering processes in accordance with EU and national rules and comply with the overall value for money objective of the Department.

A small number of consultancies are engaged directly by our Missions abroad from time to time and in some instances they prepare technical reports relating to Ireland's overseas development aid programme.

Year of

Commission

Experts/Consultants

Report/Subject

Cost

Date of publication

2011

Kevin Moore

Support to the Governments of Zambia and South Africa to develop Special Economic Zones for the promotion of inward investment and employment

€17,861

Not Applicable

– see footnote*

2011

Paul Sheane

Support to the Governments of Zambia and South Africa to develop Special Economic Zones for the promotion of inward investment and employment

€9,965

*

2011

Stefanie Meredith

Review of Irish Aid Support for Product Development Partnerships in developing countries

€10,100

*

2011

Samia Saad

Review of Irish Aid Support for Product Development Partnerships in developing countries

€9,198

*

2011

Paud Murphy

Development Education Reviews - to examine the current funding support and engagement in each of the priority areas identified in the Development Education strategy (primary, post primary, third level, adult, community and youth work)

€9,064

*

2011

80:20

Development Education Reviews - to examine the current funding support and engagement in each of the priority areas identified in the Development Education strategy (primary, post primary, third level, adult, community and youth work)

€9,870

*

2011

Eilis Murray

Development Education Reviews - to examine the current funding support and engagement in each of the priority areas identified in the Development Education strategy (primary, post primary, third level, adult, community and youth work)

€6,068

*

2011

ISOS

Development Education Reviews - to examine the current funding support and engagement in each of the priority areas identified in the Development Education strategy (primary, post primary, third level, adult, community and youth work)

€42,247

*

2011

Bernard McLoughlin

Review of the Irish Aid Centre, Dublin

€6,143

*

2011

Cathal Higgins

Preparation of a report on the programme of education sector budget support towards school infrastructural development in Karamoja region and skills development in the oil sector (Uganda)

€5,000

*

2011

Mike Williams

Review of Humanitarian Programme Plan for Irish Aid

€18,742

*

2011

Humanitarian Policy Ltd.

Review of Security Policy & Practice among Irish Aid Humanitarian Partners

€33,930

*

2012

Mike Williams

Evaluation of the Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation

€12,247

July 2013

2012

PA Consulting Group

Evaluating the value of the economic relationship between the United Kingdom and Ireland

€73,083

July 2013

2012

Cathy Roche

Review of the Our World Awards 2005-2011

€6,300

*

2012

Everywhere Consulting

Feasibility Study on the Establishment of a Humanitarian Hub at Shannon Airport

€74,982

December 2012

2012

Fintan Farrelly

Review of the Irish Aid Strategic Environmental Partnership Programme

€6,000

*

2012

Mike Williams

Review of Misean Cara

€15,099

*

2012

Pham Quang Hoa

Local consultancy contract 'Review of P135 infrastructure projects funded by Irish Aid'

€5,453

*

2012

IOD Parc

South Africa Country Strategy Programme 2008-2012 Final Report

€73,256

January 2013

2012

Itad

Evaluation of the Irish Aid Ethiopia Country Strategy Programme 2008-2012

€143,886

May 2013

2013

Peter McEvoy

Evaluation of a number of Organisations funded by the Emigrant Support Programme(ESP)

€13,075

July 2013

2013

Wright Consultancy Ltd.

Gender Equality Audit

€14,000

December 2014

2013

Mary Jennings

Review of HRD (Human Rights and Democratisation) Scheme Irish Aid Palestine

€15,500

*

2013

Bronagh Hinds & Karen McMinn Consultants

Report on the implementation of Ireland's National Action Plan on UNSCR (United Nations Security Council Resolution) 1325 on Women, Peace and Security

€20,811

June 2013

2013

Gareth Williams

Review of Financial and Programme of the Camara Education Programme

€20,000

*

2013

John Geraghty

Review of University College Cork’s Programme of Technical Support Internships for Food Security

€7,568

*

2013

Natural Research Institute

Review of Irish Aid Support to Fair and Ethical Trade Initiatives

€19,292

*

2013

Pham Quang Hoa

Review Programme 135 (for Ethnic Minorities) of Irish Aid funded infrastructure projects

€5,588

*

2013

Gareth Singleton

Review of Irish Forum for Global Health

€8,395

*

2013

IOD Parc

Evaluation of Irish Aid's Sierra Leone Strategy Paper, 2011-2013

€77,907

August 2014

2013

Mokoro

Evaluation of Ireland's Support to Timor Leste, 2001-2014

€85,203

August 2014

2014

Gareth Singleton

Review of Royal College of Surgeons

€25,756

*

2014

Tierney & Associates, Risk & Governance Consultants

Audit of grants awarded under Emigrant Support Programme

€19,934

*

2014

Hogan Lovells, Washington

Review of tax, social insurance and health obligations and other conditions of service in respect of locally-recruited staff members at our missions in the United States

€57,756

*

2014

Gallup Korea (Korea Gallup Poll Co. Ltd.)

Working Holiday Agreement Report

€7,217

March 2015

2014

Andy Pollak

Review of Irish Aid support for Initial Teacher Education

€11,564

*

2014

ADETEF

OECD DAC EVALNET Study on Collaborative Partner- Donor Evaluation Work

€25,000

*

2014

Tran Thi Ngoc Diep

Local input into Review of Irish Aid scholarship programmes

€1,502

*

2014

Tom Collins

Feasibility Study - Celebrating and Sustaining Ireland’s relationship with Africa

€5,000

*

2014

ITAD Limited

Mid Term Review of the Civil Society Support Programme

€68,135

*

2014

David Goodman Payne

Review of Irish Aid Civil Society Facility in Vietnam

€8,549

*

2014

Cathy Gaynor/Niamh O'Grady/Gill Roe

Evaluability Assessment of the Programme of Strategic Cooperation

€43,200

*

2014

Willis Risk Services (Ireland) Limited

Consultancy for insurance policy report and tender documentation for the Rapid Response Corps

€6,150

*

2014

Mekong Development Research Institute

Impact assessment of Irish Aid funded infrastructure projects under P135 in 2011 & 2012

€43,912

*

2014

Karen McMinn

Report and final review on the implementation of Ireland's National Action Plan on UNSCR (United Nations Security Council Resolution) 1325 on Women, Peace and Security

€9,750

2015

2014

Mokoro

Evaluation of Irish Aid’s Uganda Country Strategy Paper 2010-2014

€113,739

*

2014

ASM (B) Ltd.

Payroll System Audit

€11,636

*

2014

Ground Work Consultancy

Review of Nutrition Options for Irish Aid in Mozambique

€5,000

*

2014

Ground Work Consultancy

Review of performance and lessons learned for Irish Aid funded OFSP projects

€3,500

*

2014

Ground Work Consultancy

Review of Irish Aid Nutrition programming in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos PDR

€13,829

*

2015

ASM

Audit of grants awarded under Emigrant Support Programme

€24,500

*

2015

Coffey International Development Ltd.

Review of the Irish Aid Programme Grant Mechanism

€23,588

*

2015

Tran Thi Ngoc Diep

Local input into scoping study to explore Ireland’s cooperation in the agriculture & agribusiness sector under the IDEAS programme

€4,442

*

2015

Johnny O'Regan

Organisational Assessment of Mary Robinson Foundation – Climate Justice

€4,400

*

2015

Mazars

ICT Audit

€27,552

*

2015

Crowleys DFK

Payment System Audit

€19,004

*

2015

Saferworld

Conflict Analysis input to the Embassy of Ireland Country Strategy Paper(CSP) development process - Uganda

€15,450

*

2015

Dr. Cornelius Chipoma

Review of the education Sector programme in the context of Irish Aid Zambia 2013-2017 CSP - Zambia

€3,738

*

2015

Charles Abola

Review of Irish Aid support to Acholi Education initiative (AEI) - Zambia

€12,000

*

2015

Firetail Ltd.

Evaluation of the MVIWATA Strategic Plan 2010-2014 - Tanzania

€21,450

*

2015

Centre for Social Research

Review of Irish Aid’s support of the Forum from Women’s Educationalist – Uganda Chapter(FAWEU)

€18,942

*

2015

Gemma O'Reilly

UNFCCC Reporting and Climate Finance Mapping 2014-2015

€27,041

*

2015

Wilberforce Muhwana

Design of the Quality Education Component for the Development of the Country Strategy Paper 2016 - 2020

€14,400

*

2015

Transparency international

Consultancy to assess the current Governance and Management status of institutions in Education Sector to appraise Performance, and propose Recommendations to improve Accountability and Transparency

€15,362

*

2015

Stephens Moore

Audit and Verification of Grants awarded to the Platform for Social Protection Zambia for 2013 and 2014

€31,550

*

2015

Ann Nolan

Review of the Irish Aid – HSE collaboration – 2015

€6,300

October 2015

2015

Sebastian Kevany

Review of Irish Aid-CHAI (Clinton Health Access Initiative) Partnership 2011-2015

€21,368

*

2015

Ms Mpala Nkonkomalimba

Mid Term Review Process Irish Aid Zambia Country Strategy 2013-17

€6,300

*

2015

Kate Bridges

Review of Partners Logic Models/ theories of change- Zambia

€6,680

November 2015

2015

Mr. Isaac Ngoma

Mid Term Review Public Financial Management (PFM) Assessment - Zambia

€5,000

November 2015

2015

Lahluva Consultores

Annual Planning Report of G19 and Government of Mozambique and Assessment of Irish Aid Annual Comm to GBS - Mozambique

€24,000

March 2016

2015

OPTIMOZ

Facilitation & Capability Strengthening for Niassa Provincial Leadership Team re Design of Niassa Provincial Strategic Framework for the PEN – 2027 - Mozambique

€25,000

November 2015

2015

OPTIMOZ

Capability Assessment and Initial Facilitation of Planning Exercise for Niassa Provincial Leadership Team 2017-27 - Mozambique

€4,900

October 2015

2015

Option Consultancy Services Ltd

Review of Social Accountability Approaches in Health

€12,872

January 2016

2015

Anne Nolan

Review of HSE MOU

€8,100

October 2015

2015

Michael Shannon

Asia Pacific Ireland Business Forum Review

€4951

January 2016

2015

Alasdair Collins DP Evaluation

Evaluation of IDEAs (Irish Development for Education Association) Capacity Development Programme 2013-2015

€5,212

*

2015

Cathal Reidy

A review of Ireland's Humanitarian Emergency Relief Supplies

€36,290

*

2015

Ground Work Consultancy

Review of Irish Aid Nutrition programmes in Tanzania

€6,558

*

2016

Right to Change

Planning of Irish Aid Country Strategy Programme Tanzania 2017-2022

€13,974

*

2016

Bronagh Hinds

Debbie Donnelly

Midterm Review of the 2nd National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security

€15,506

May 2017

2016

The Institute of International and European Affairs

Comprehensive study mapping that Ireland Japan relationship to mark the 60th anniversary of Ireland-Japan Diplomatic Relations in 2017

€22,000

January 2017

2016

Grant Thornton

Audit Services

€100,000

*

2016

Emily Mates

Stocktake of Nutrition Engagement

€13,612

*

2016

Noel Casserly

UNFCC Reporting and Climate Finance Mapping 2015-2016

€25,370

*

2016

REEV Consult International

Evaluation of the CSF and the Partnership Fund

€25,000

*

2016

ASM

Audit of grants awarded under Emigrant Support Programme

€26,533

2016

Emmanuel Sulle

Land Rights Scoping Study/Consultancy

€7,500

*

2016

Isihaka Mwandalima

Gender-Based Violence scoping study

€3,750

*

2016

McQuillans

Accounting, Audit and Financial Services

€6,240

*

2016

PwC

Internal audit of Embassy, and external audit of selected projects/programmes

€75,000

*

2016

Dr. Cornelius Chipoma

Review of the Irish Aid Zambia Education programme

€9,000

*

2016

Luiz Genedio Mendes Jorge

Review of the Supreme Audit Institution's report and opinion on the State Accounts 2014

€4,800

*

2016

Southern Cross Consulting

Review of Embassy of Ireland’s approach to Fellowship in Tanzania

€11,430

*

2016

Willis Towers Watson

Study of Compensation Levels - Locally engaged staff in diplomatic missions (USA)

€3,150

*

2016

Mercer International

Study of Compensation Levels - Locally engaged staff in diplomatic missions (Irish Aid)

€13,200

*

2016

Eamon Brehony, Alais Nakuyukuyo Morindat

Review of Irish Aid support to Pastoralism in Tanzania

€10,450

*

2016

Centre for Law and Democracy

Analysis of anti-corruption legislation in Tanzania

€2,670

*

2016

CASE International

Consultancy to evaluate the Civil Society Fund

€49,800

*

2016

Ingrid Obery

Review of partner results and internal capacity building on results based Management

€25,000

*

2016

Anne Nolan/Janet Gruber

Review of Global Health and HIV AIDS Review

€39,535

*

2016

Technopolis

Review of Product Development partners

€19,375

*

2016

Caoimhe Hughes

Review of Annual Reports of Programme Grant Partners

€4,000

*

2016

Mr. Sean Mc Gearty

Review of Co-Operation Ireland

€14,188

*

2016

M Horizon (UK) Ltd.

Analysis of recent recommendations issued by the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf

€1,788

*

2017

ASM

Audit of grants awarded under Emigrant Support Programme

€59,292

(paid between 2017 & 2018)

*

2017

Tierney & Associates, Risk & Governance Consultants

Systems review of Emigrant Support Programme

€15,375

*

2017

Indecon Consultants

Economic Report on Addressing the Challenges Faced by Returning Irish Emigrants

€73,628

(paid between 2017 & 2018)

February 2018

2017

Ernst & Young (EY)

External Quality Assessment of Internal Audit

€15,000

*

2017

Amárach Research

Brexit Research: Understanding the likely demand for Irish passports from citizens in U.K

€21,000

*

2017

M Horizon (UK) Ltd.

Continental Shelf

NE Atlantic

€3,163

*

2017

Mary Brady

Overview of Humanitarian Mine Action

€4,500

*

2017

Noel Casserly

UNFCCC Reporting and Climate Financing Mapping 2016 – 2017

€25,537

*

2017

Rachael Twinem

Internal review of the management structure and roles in the DICE (Development and Intercultural Education) project

€5,721

*

2017

Mercer International

Study of Compensation Levels - Locally engaged staff in diplomatic missions (Irish Aid)

€19,188

*

2018

FitzPatrick Associates

Review of VIBE programme

€11,234

*

2018

FitzPatrick Associates

Review of ROR's approach to Fellowships in Palestine

€18,761

*

2018

MEPS Consulting

Feasibility Study on Gaza Solar Energy Proposal

Est. €27,000 + VAT.

Final cost on completion of the report in 2019

*

2018

Brian Casey

Review of the Humanitarian Programme Plan in Somalia

€9,591

*

2018

Brian Casey

Review of the Humanitarian Programme Plan in Burundi

€4,500

*

2018

Brian Casey

Review of External Quality Assurance HPP 2019-2021

€2,250

*

2018

Julia Lewis

Review of the Humanitarian Programme Plan in Cameroon

€9,383

*

2018

Niall Roche

Review of the Humanitarian Programme Plan in Tanzania

€8,548

*

2018

Sherry McLean

Review of IRC Strategic Partnership

€13,925

*

2018

Mercer International

Study of Compensation Levels - Locally engaged staff in diplomatic missions (Foreign Affairs and Trade)

€38,376

*

2018

The Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces/International Security

Sector Advisory Team

Member States' Systems of Secondment to Civilian CSDP and Recommendations for Strengthening and Expanding Ireland’s Participation.

€50,000 approx.

(awaiting final invoice)

*

2018

Leading Edge

Giving effect to a commitment in the National Plan on Business and Human Rights, a tender was awarded to Leading Edge for the baseline assessment of the legislative and regulatory framework pertaining to business and human rights as it applies in Ireland.

Tender awarded for a total cost of €25,000, inclusive of VAT. To date, two instalments totalling €14,575.50 have been paid to Leading Edge for this project and the balance will be paid following satisfactory completion of the contract.

Not yet

Published

*Certain reports commissioned by the Department are for internal management usage and not for publication. However, many Irish Aid related reports are published on www.irishaid.ie.

Passport Applications Fees

Questions (117)

Fiona O'Loughlin

Question:

117. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the estimated cost in a full year if the passport application fee was reduced to €60 for persons over 75 years of age based on 2017 figures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50178/18]

View answer

Written answers

The Passport Service does not provide a reduced fee to any category of adult applicant for a passport, whether for the renewal of a passport or for a first time application. A reduced fee is applied on applications for passports for minors in recognition of the fact that a minor’s passport is valid for only five years. Most adult passports will be issued for a period of ten years.

I have asked my staff to review the cost of the standard ten year adult Irish passport and to compare it to the cost of a similar passport in many other jurisdictions. I am satisfied that, at a cost of €80, which breaks down to €8 per year, the Irish passport fee compares favourably with the services offered elsewhere. For example, an adult would have to pay €8.20 per year for a British passport, €8.60 per year for a French passport, €9.75 per year for an American passport and €18.10 per year for an Australian passport.

Based on 2017 application volumes, the Passport Service has calculated the potential annual cost of reducing the passport application fee to €60 for applicants over 75 years of age to be just under half a million euros. Given that any shortfall in revenue would have to be met by the taxpayer, a decision to waive or reduce the application fee for any category of applicant would require careful consideration. It is important to ensure that the major upgrades to the passport service technology platforms and business processes as well as significant customer service improvements which have taken place in recent years can be maintained and further developed.

In the context of the services provided by the Passport Service, I would like to draw attention to the well-advanced Passport Reform Programme, one element of which is the Online Passport Renewal Service which was launched on 30 March 2017. To date over 298,000 adults have renewed their passport using this online facility.

The Online Passport Renewal Service has recently expanded to include the online renewal of children’s passports, to introduce a passport card for children and to expand the cohort of adults eligible to renew online. The service brings significant benefits for citizens with faster turnaround times of 10 working days for all online applications, excluding postage. In addition, the cost of renewing a passport online is significantly cheaper than alternative methods, with fees for all online applications being reduced by €5 across all application types. The expanded service is now available to all adults and children who wish to renew their passport.

Whilst the online service does not distinguish between applicants based on age, applicants can be assured that the online system will be the cheapest as well as the most efficient, secure and convenient way to apply to renew their passport.

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