Written Answers Nos. 1066-1086
1066. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the reason the Building Regulations Advisory Body was not consulted regarding recent changes to the building regulations technical guidance document for fire safety (details supplied); when the Building Regulations Advisory Body was last convened; when a meeting will be convened; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7847/20]
View answerSection 14 of the Building Control Act 1990 provides for the establishment, at the Minister's discretion, of a Building Regulations Advisory Body (BRAB) to advise the Minister on matters relating to building regulations.
The term of office of the last BRAB expired on 1 October 2012. The members of that BRAB were appointed for a term of office of five years from 14 June 2007 to 13 June 2012. A temporary extension to 1 October 2012 was granted to the existing members in light of the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations which were at an advanced stage of development at that time.
In accordance with Appendix IIb of the Government’s Public Service Reform Plan, published by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in November 2011, the BRAB was listed as one of the forty six “Candidate Bodies for Critical Review by end June 2012”. The outcome of that review process was that the work of the Building Regulations Advisory Body was to be absorbed into my Department. I have no plans to establish a new BRAB at this time.
In relation to Ireland’s evacuation policy, the Fire Safety Task Force established in the aftermath of the Grenfell tragedy, in its report of May 2018, highlights evacuation of buildings as the default policy in Ireland. This is distinctly different from the “stay put” policy in other countries. The Report also states “The key to life safety in all apartment buildings is a proper two-stage fire detection and alarm system, together with an evacuation strategy…”.
In regard to the recent changes to the Building Regulations technical guidance document for fire safety, Part B and Technical Guidance Document (TGD) B of the Building Regulations deal with fire safety issues. Part B of the Second Schedule of the Building Regulations sets the legal performance requirements of buildings and the associated TGD B provides guidance on how to achieve that performance for common building types. Where works are carried out in accordance with the guidance in TGD B, this will, prima facie, indicate compliance with Part B.
The design of apartments in Ireland has been evolving over recent years, as design teams learn from best practice around the world. In particular, open plan apartments are becoming increasingly popular. TGD B 2006 did not provide specific guidance on open plan apartment arrangements. In 2018, following liaison with Dublin Fire Brigade (DFB), a working group of experts from DFB and my Department was set up to examine the issue of open plan apartments in Ireland and develop appropriate guidance.
All proposed changes to the Building Regulations or amendments to TGDs are formally notified to the European Commission and are subject to a public consultation process and a Regulatory Impact Analysis. The recent additional guidance to TGD B 2006 is no different, in that a draft was published for public consultation from 23 June 2019 to 23 August 2019.
A significant number of submissions were received from individuals, fire safety consultants, housing providers, other organisations and local authorities. My Department carefully evaluated all 39 submissions received, which included approximately 400 comments. In addition, a number of meetings took place with stakeholders such as local authority fire officers, fire safety consultants and construction industry stakeholders.
In developing the additional guidance, standards, tests and engineering approaches were considered and fire safety requirements in a number of jurisdictions, including England, Scotland, the USA, Australia, Denmark and Hong Kong, were reviewed.
The additional guidance amending TGD B 2006 published in February 2020 has a number of provisions for buildings containing apartments and includes a new section specifying provisions for open plan apartments. In relation to internal layouts and provisions for open plan apartments with travel distances exceeding 9m, the guidance provides for -
- sprinkler protection within the apartment to control fire development;
- maximum travel distances within the apartment of 20m;
- single storey apartments only;
- an enhanced fire detection and alarm systems within the apartment;
- interconnected alarms in circulation areas, bedrooms and high risk areas to ensure early detection and warning of a fire; and
- enclosed kitchens or a distance of 1.8m from the main kitchen cooking appliances to the escape route, which is in line with international research and testing.
For smaller apartments, with travel distances less than or equal to 9m, the guidance in TGD B has not changed. TGD B has referenced BS 5588 Part 1: 1990 since the introduction of Building Regulations in 1991, and this continues to be applicable. In these apartments, the travel distances from the apartment entrance door to any point in any habitable room cannot exceed 9m, no habitable room can be an inner room, and the position of any cooking facilities should be remote from the dwelling entrance door and not prejudice the escape route from any point in the apartment. This typically applies to small studio type flats with open internal layouts.
The additional guidance provides that an escape route from a bedroom cannot be through a kitchen in a non-sprinklered apartment, as no habitable room can be an inner room in accordance with BS 5588 Part 1: 1990, as currently referenced in TGD B. Furthermore, the existing provisions of BS 5588-1:1990 clearly indicate that escape from flats with a floor more than 4.5m above ground level should be via common protected corridors/lobbies and protected stairways, not via escape windows. While this does not consider windows to be suitable for escape, it does not preclude the use of windows for rescue.
It should be noted that the additional guidance also addresses other aspects of fire safety for buildings containing apartments and this is set out at the beginning of reprint TGD B 2020. All of the guidance in TGD B (Reprint 2020) should be considered collectively, as fire safety must be addressed in a holistic manner, considering building resilience and ensuring a building is safe for occupant egress and firefighter operations simultaneously.
Technical Guidance Document B - Fire Safety (2006) (Reprint 2020) and a Background Note on Recent Changes to Part B and TGD B of the Building Regulations are available on my Department’s website at:
https://www.housing.gov.ie/housing/building-standards/tgd-part-b-fire-safety/technical-guidance-document-b-fire-safety.
1067. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the operational guidelines that exist for local authorities in respect of their administration of the rental accommodation scheme; the specific rules that local authorities must abide by in terms of the date that the scheme is payable by them, that is, from the date of application or the date of award; if the latter, the reason for this; and the rules or guidelines in place if there is a significant processing delay by the local authority. [7849/20]
View answerLocal authorities are responsible for the detailed planning of social housing provision based on the households needs in their respective areas. It is a matter for each local authority to identify the appropriate initiatives to respond to identified housing need. This includes consideration of options to build, acquire or lease properties, as well as the provision of housing supports through the private rental sector, including through the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS). The allocation of social housing support to qualified households is, in the first instance, a matter for the local authority concerned, in accordance with its allocation scheme made in accordance with section 22 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 and its associated Regulations.
RAS has been an important contributor to social housing supply since its introduction on a pilot basis in 2005. RAS involves a three-way relationship between (1) the housing authority and landlord - where the local authority enters into a contractual arrangement with the property owner to make the property available to the housing authority under the RAS scheme for an agreed term and at an agreed rent; (2) the landlord and tenant - where the eligible RAS tenant, nominated by the housing authority, signs a residential tenancy agreement with the landlord; and (3) the housing authority and tenant - where the RAS tenant pays a differential rent to the local authority and the local authority makes payments to the landlord on the tenant's behalf. The availability agreement signed by the landlord and the local authority sets out the commencement date for that agreement and would therefore be the date from which rent is payable to the landlord by the local authority, subject to all conditions of the availability agreement being complied with.
If the Deputy can provide additional information in relation to any particular form of delay that he is concerned about, I will endeavour to have the matter explored further.
1068. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the percentage requirements for social and affordable homes on the Colbert Station quarter development by the Land Development Agency in Limerick city as directed by his Department; the cost of phase 2 of the quarter; the cost of the panel of eight architects; the person or body they are employed by; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7855/20]
View answerThe Land Development Agency (LDA), in partnership with Limerick City and County Council, CIÉ and the HSE, has commissioned a Design Review for the redevelopment of a brownfield mixed-use 75 hectare site at Colbert Station, Limerick. The exact housing mix will not be determined until the design of the site is fully completed. Alongside the establishment of the LDA in September 2018, the Government approved a new public land affordability requirement. Under this requirement, a minimum of 30% of any housing developed on State-owned lands must be reserved for affordable housing purposes, in addition to the 10% statutory social housing requirement under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000.
On the basis of information provided by the LDA to my Department, I can indicate that the project is currently in phase 1. As such, no financial planning for phase 2 has been undertaken as of yet as this is largely contingent on the results presented by the design review in phase 1.
The commissioning of architectural or other expertise in relation to individual projects is a matter for the LDA itself. In that context, as is the case with all State bodies operating under the aegis of my Department, arrangements have been put in place by the LDA through which Oireachtas members can request information directly from the Agency in relation to operational matters. In this regard, the LDA may be contacted directly at oireachtas@lda.ie.
1070. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if an analysis has been carried out by his Department on the impact on productivity in the construction sector as a result of Covid-19 restrictions and social distancing; the impact in terms of input costs; the way in which that will impact the viability of housing and apartment projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8003/20]
View answerAs most construction sites only commenced remobilisation from 18 May 2020, in light of the Government Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business, it is too early estimate with any accuracy the potential costs of the safe working practices required in line with the Return to Work Safely Protocol; COVID-19 Specific National Protocol for Employers and Workers, and their impact on the viability of housing and apartment projects.
While practically all housing relation construction activity had ceased from 27th March 2020, as the Deputy will be aware, a number of construction projects delivering urgent essential homes were activated during the period of restrictions. One of the key criteria to achieve designation under the above process was that where works were proposed, the Contractor employed by the local authority or the Approved Housing Body was required to confirm that they could undertake the works in accordance with HSE and Government COVID-19-related public health guidelines and recommendations. Another criteria was that these projects were, for the most part, practically complete, with minor final snagging, landscaping, paving and external works to be completed.
The activation of these sites gave both the construction site teams and the contracting body- either the local authority or Approved Housing Body- an opportunity to practically implement some of the concepts that were being prepared across the board by the Sector working with Government on standard operating procedures and to feedback to their representative organisation. It also allowed for a level of readiness to commence other activity on non-essential sites. While the earlier activation might also provide some slightly earlier indication of the additional costs arising, the real impact on programmes, costs and productivity will vary from site to site and the stage of development (commencement or near completion).
This view has been underscored in recent correspondence which I have received from Property Industry Ireland (PII), which indicates that it will be some time before such an exercise is possible, and noting that the sector is very conscious of the impact of any increase in costs on its competitiveness and so there is an incentive for the sector to examine ways in which to minimise or reduce costs.
The Construction Sector Group, chaired by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, and established to ensure regular and open dialogue between Government and the construction sector in the context of the delivery of the National Development Plan, will provide a useful forum for the engagement on the wider industry impacts of COVID-19 arrangements. This Group’s remit includes working with industry and government bodies to benchmark and improve productivity and environmental sustainability and to modernise public works delivery.
My Department has sought to support the current measures by encouraging planning authorities, where possible, to adopt a discretionary approach in relation to construction working hours conditions attached to planning permissions so as to assist the splitting of shifts for separating trades and activities required to achieve physical distancing on construction sites in accordance with relevant public health/ health and safety advice and protocols, while seeking to balance this with the need to ensure output and productivity by the sector.
Within this broader frame, my Department will monitor any specific viability issues arising for the housing sector. This is an area which my Department has actively considered in recent years and measures have been brought forward such as the standardisation of documentation and innovative production methods for social housing programmes and statutory planning guidance on building heights and apartments to improve viability by lowering costs, while ensuring a quality urban environment. My Department will also continue to participate in Construction Sector Group discussions on wider industry issues, including productivity and innovation.
1071. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the extent to which Rebuilding Ireland home loans are available now and in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8018/20]
View answer1072. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the number of persons who have made an application for Rebuilding Ireland home loans; the number granted, refused and pending, respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8019/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1071 and 1072 together.
The Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan (RIHL) was launched on 1 February 2018. When the RIHL was initially being developed, it was estimated that the drawdown of loans under the scheme would be approximately €200 million over three years. The RIHL proved to be more successful than initially anticipated and following discussions with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, an increase in funding of €363.6 million for 2018-2019 was communicated to all 31 local authorities on 15 August 2019. Following further engagement with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, additional funding for new RIHL lending of up to €210 million has been secured for 2020.
It is recognised that current applicants for a Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan may be experiencing difficulties arising out of COVID-19 restrictions, including, for example, accessing financial documents; property visits and valuations; solicitors visits, etc. Therefore, local authorities are being asked to show flexibility when dealing with applicants at all stages of the Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan process from application through to approval, drawdown and (where relevant) appeal and should extend the time periods as necessary to accommodate those who may be experiencing difficulties arising out of COVID-19 restrictions. For existing applicants, local authorities are advised to ensure that final loan offers are made based on up to date financial and employment data from applicants, as appropriate, having regard to the implications that COVID-19 has had for many businesses and employers.
My Department publishes information on the overall number and value of (i) local authority loan approvals and (ii) local authority loan drawdowns. Local authority approval means that an official letter of offer has been sent to a borrower (and therefore relates to a specific property and loan amount). My Department does not collect information on the number of applications received, pending or refused.
Information on the Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan for 2019, including the number and value of mortgage approvals and drawdowns, as well as average loan amounts, are available on my Department's website at the following link:
https://www.housing.gov.ie/housing/statistics/house-prices-loans-and-profile-borrowers/local-authority-loan-activity .
This information will be updated on a quarterly basis as additional data is compiled.
Information on the Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan for 2018 is also available through this link and can be found under local authority loans approved and local authority loans paid. However these figures are not detailed by loan type.
1073. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the directive given to local authorities in relation to the regulations brought in; the way in which these will affect housing allocations during Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8034/20]
View answerLocal authorities, in managing their range of functions in the context of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business, adhere closely to the direction, guidance and advice from the Department of Health and the National Public Health Emergency Team for COVID-19 (NPHET). My Department and the local government sector are working together to ensure that all local government services are delivered to the greatest extent possible, where it is safe to do so.
Under section 22 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009, allocation of dwellings is a housing authority function, which is undertaken in accordance with the housing authority's allocation scheme. The allocations function in local authorities has been operating throughout the period, with a particular focus on ensuring that urgent allocations are occurring, and the various aspects of the process that can occur remotely or safely in adherence with the HSE guidelines are continuing. As we move into a less restricted phase, local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies are working together to ensure that any delays that may have arisen due to the COVID-19 restrictions are addressed, in line with the Roadmap and public health advice.
1074. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the reason a loan was denied to Clare County Council to develop a mixed housing development comprising of social and affordable housing in Meelick, County Clare. [8069/20]
View answerIn accordance with the requirements in the Local Government Act 2001, Clare County Council sought sanction to borrow €6m to purchase 10 sites across the county for housing development in June 2019. When reviewing requests such as this, my Department is required to consider the borrowing capacity for the local goverment sector, the overall priorities of Government in terms of infrastructure, regional development and local development, as well as the alignment of local authority proposals with national and local policies and plans. Of the 10 sites that formed part of the request, sanction to borrow €3m was approved.
The National Planning Framework prioritises public investment in substantial new housing development into towns and villages, where citizens can access existing local education facilties, employment opportunities, healthcare, transport and other local services. Approved borrowing sanctions, as indicated above, have been for housing projects in such existing towns and villages in County Clare. My Department’s Serviced Sites Fund, supporting the development of publically owned sites for affordable housing development, similarly concentrates on established city and town areas where such existing local services and infrastructure are currently available.
The Meelick site is situated within a small residential area that is isolated from such necessary local services and has severely limited public transport. The current Clare County Development Plan also indicates that the site in question is unserviced and there is no indication or commitment that the required services for development are to be provided by Irish Water to facilitate the housing development proposed by Clare County Council. Furthermore, the local authority's Core Strategy Population Target for Ballycannon North (Meelick) indicates a target increase in population of 124 Persons (45 Households) only, from 2011-2023. It is not clear whether or not the current population may have already reached this target. The scale of the proposed development, at approximately 70 housing units, is inconsistent with Departmental guidelines on Sustainable Communities, which seek to provide social housing development of a scale proportionate to the size and demand in the existing local population.
Given the very limited access to facilities, Clare County Council would be required to demonstrate that no other more suitable, better located sites are available within other large villages in the county. The Council would also have to demonstrate a high demand for the location in question by way of approved social housing applicants who have expressed a specific preference for Ballycannon North (Meelick).
It was for these reasons that this part of the loan application has not been sanctioned.
1075. Deputy Norma Foley asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if the necessary funding will be provided to address a major health and safety matter in respect of an out-of-order sewerage treatment plant at a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8094/20]
View answerIn July 2019, my Department launched the multi-annual Developer-Provided Water Services Infrastructure Resolution Programme 2019-2021. Bids were sought from local authorities for funding under the programme and nineteen local authorities with Developer-Provided Water Services Infrastructure in estates in their areas made applications for funding. Kerry County Council included the estate referred to in its application.
My Department has completed a preliminary evaluation and clarification process on the bids received from the local authorities. An Expert Panel, which includes Departmental, stakeholder and independent representation, has been appointed to examine the bids. The Panel has held a number of meetings already, with a further meeting scheduled for later this month.
The Expert Panel will make recommendations on the suitability of projects for funding under the programme. This will be based on criteria set out in the Framework document issued to local authorities when requesting proposals. It is expected that an announcement on approvals and allocations will be made once that process is concluded in late Q2 2020.
1076. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if he will work with local authority chief executives and the Minister for Health to ensure that local authorities can source, secure and supply mobile homes for self-isolation as a means of preventative health action to proactively combat Covid-19 for Travellers living in overcrowded accommodation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8172/20]
View answerIn accordance with the Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act 1998, housing authorities have statutory responsibility for the assessment of the accommodation needs of Travellers and the preparation, adoption and implementation of multi-annual Traveller Accommodation Programmes (TAPs) in their areas. My Department’s role is to ensure that there are adequate structures and supports in place to assist the authorities in providing such accommodation, including a national framework of policy, legislation and funding. It is a matter for local authorities to assess the adequacy of provisions on sites (both authorised and unauthorised) and implement measures as necessary, taking into consideration advice from the HSE, fire safety guidelines, local area plans, public procurement guidelines and any other considerations relevant to their area.
In response to the COVID-19 health emergency, I and my Department have engaged with local authorities and Traveller representative groups to put a responsive plan in place to address identified and emerging health risks to the Traveller population nationwide, particularly as some members of the Traveller community, such as those living on sites with limited facilities, may be particularly vulnerable. On 18 March 2020, my Department wrote to each local authority in relation to measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and lessen the risk of infection to families residing in Traveller-specific accommodation. Local authorities were advised that my Department has funding available for essential mitigation works and that any such requests will be afforded full priority. Works identified include extra toilets or temporary sanitary blocks, running water, additional accommodation where there is overcrowding, site clean-ups and extra refuse collection, and additional units on-site or elsewhere as space permits in order to allow for self-isolation/quarantine. Many of these solutions have been, or are in the process of being, implemented on sites throughout the country and my Department has been very clear that these provisions will apply to both authorised and unauthorised sites for the duration of this crisis.
My Department is in regular contact with the local authorities and is ensuring that funding approvals, where appropriate, are granted as a matter of priority.
1077. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the details of plans for the development of the Central Mental Hospital; the involvement of the Land Development Agency in this development; the stage the development is at; the breakdown for social and affordable housing planned for the land; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8270/20]
View answerOn establishment of the Land Development Agency (LDA), the Agency was tasked with the development of an initial tranche of 8 sites, including the Central Mental Hospital site in Dundrum.
On the basis of information provided by the LDA to my Department, the development at the Dundrum site is currently in pre-planning stage. Following the relocation of the Central Mental Hospital, the Dundrum site will become available to the LDA to further progress development.
The LDA has recently appointed a design team to progress the designs and expects to lodge a planning application in mid-2021 and, subject to An Bord Pleanála approval, to begin construction in early 2022.
In September 2018, the Government approved a new public land affordability requirement. Under this requirement, a minimum of 30% of any housing developed on State lands must be reserved for affordable purposes in addition to the 10% statutory social housing requirement under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000. The site at Dundrum will be developed in line with this requirement.
As with all State bodies operating under the aegis of my Department, arrangements have been put in place by the LDA through which Oireachtas members can request information directly from the Agency in relation to operational matters - in this regard, the LDA may be contacted directly at oireachtas@lda.ie.
1078. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if he will report on the Shanganagh Castle development; if the lack of the enactment of the legislation for the Land Development Agency is holding up the progress of this development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8271/20]
View answerThe Land Development Agency (LDA) was established on an interim basis in September 2018, by way of an Establishment Order made under the Local Government Services (Corporate Bodies) Act 1971, pending the enactment of primary legislation when it will be established as a commercial State agency. Article 5 of the Establishment Order empowers the LDA to provide services including the development and regeneration of land and property and securing development consents for such projects.
The site at Shanganagh is being developed by Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council in partnership with the LDA. A planning application, for the development of 597 homes on this site, was submitted to An Bord Pleanála in January 2020. I understand from the LDA that the necessary arrangements can be made for construction to commence, if the planning application is approved.
A General Scheme of the Land Development Agency Bill to establish the LDA as a commercial state body on a primary legislative basis was approved by Government for publication, consideration for pre-legislative scrutiny and priority drafting in July 2019. The pre-legislative scrutiny process is now complete and the Committee's report has been received by my Department and is being considered in the context of the further development of the proposed legislative provisions.
1079. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the number of social housing units he is expecting to be delivered from the Cherrywood SDZ; the timeline for these homes; the number of these homes that are already included in a granted planning permission; the number of these planning permissions that already have commencement notices on the site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8272/20]
View answerCherrywood Strategic Development Zone (SDZ), which, at approximately 360 hectares, is the single largest undeveloped land-bank in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, is expected to deliver 8,700 new homes. At full build-out, it is anticipated that the area will deliver approximately 870 social housing homes, in line with the 10% requirement under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended.
Construction is ongoing in the Cherrywood Town Centre development site, with completion of the first tranche of social housing expected by the end of 2022. However, the recent COVID-19 restrictions on construction, while brief, may have some impact on timelines.
Subject to negotiation and agreement on terms, the Cherrywood SDZ has the potential to deliver 219 social housing homes on foot of planning permissions already granted for Part V obligated residential development. Construction work has already commenced on two sites which are due to deliver 141 social housing homes. Construction on a third site, which it is expected will deliver a further 24 social housing homes, is expected to commence shortly.
1080. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if he will revise guidelines in relation to co-living and ensure that these kind of developments will not be allowed in view of the fact that Covid-19 has highlighted the dangers of overcrowded living conditions and the role congregated living plays in transmission of diseases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8273/20]
View answerIn 2018, I published updated Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New Apartments Guidelines for Planning Authorities, as Ministerial Guidance under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended), following an extensive public consultation process.
The updated guidelines set out policy in relation to a range of apartment formats needed to meet the accommodation needs of different household types and sizes. This includes the potential for a ‘Shared Accommodation’ or ‘Co-Living’ format. This format comprises professionally managed rental accommodation, where living accommodation, that may comprise individual rooms, is rented within an overall development, that must also include access to shared or communal facilities and amenities, but not shared bathroom or toilet facilities. To end Q1 2020, 294 co-living bedspaces have been approved by An Bord Pleanála under the strategic housing development application process since the guidelines came into force in 2018. In comparison, there were more than 60,000 homes permitted, none of which were co-living bedspaces, from when the guidelines were published to the end of 2019 alone.
Shared accommodation is one of a number of residential settings that include hotels, hostels, residential institutions and student accommodation, where residential occupation comprises more than one household. Although such accommodation formats are not as prevalent as individual houses or apartments, they nonetheless play an important role in catering for the diverse needs of the overall population. There are currently no plans to review any of these formats in light of the COVID-19 pandemic but my Department will continue to monitor existing policy measures and activities, having regard to the most up to date Government public health advice and guidance, as the response to the COVID-19 pandemic evolves.
1081. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if tourist travel to the offshore islands may be considered under phase 4 of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business (details supplied). [7087/20]
View answer1084. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the reason non-resident tourist travel to offshore islands can only resume in phase 5 of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business while tourism activities in the rest of the country with appropriate restrictions are being facilitated in phase 4; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7049/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1081 and 1084 together.
In response to the Taoiseach’s announcement on 27 March 2020, as well as to requests from island communities to limit travel to island residents only in order to keep the islands COVID free, my Department has worked closely with island representative groups and ferry operators in order to implement reduced ferry schedules serving the islands on a temporary basis. This was done to properly protect both island communities and those working on their life-line transport services during the current pandemic.
These services will be fully restored in due course in accordance with best practice, following consultation with island communities and the relevant health authorities.
While Government recognises the importance of tourism to the economy of the islands, the well being of island residents must be given priority at this time. Notwithstanding this, if a reasonable request to reopen the islands earlier than Stage 5 of the National Plan were to come from the island communities through their representative body, I would be willing to bring same to the appropriate authorities for consideration.
1082. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her plans to assist zoos and animal parks here following the Covid-19 pandemic; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7779/20]
View answerMy Department has responsibility for the licensing and inspection of zoos under the European Communities (Licensing and Inspection of Zoos) Regulations 2003, S.I. No. 440 of 2003. Under these Regulations, zoos are obliged to operate in accordance with the standards set out in the Irish Standards of Modern Zoo Practice (ISMZP). The granting and renewal of a licence from my Department to operate, is conditional on zoos complying with these standards. The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine also has a role in relation to the Animal Health and Welfare Act.
There are currently 68 licensed zoos in the country ranging from small family-run wildlife parks to large internationally renowned zoos such as Dublin Zoo, as well as a number of mobile zoos and aquaria.
Like almost all public facing businesses, zoos have been closed to the public during the current Covid-19 crisis, and the Government has a range of supports in place to assist businesses, which includes the Temporary COVID-19 Wage Subsidy Scheme and a range of other business supports.
In parallel with these measures, my Department is working to provide zoos with guidance and support. My Department is in contact with zoos across Ireland and with the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquaria to ensure the best possible solutions for animals and to help zoo owners continue to operate their establishments within the regulatory framework. While it has not been possible to carry out inspections due to the COVID-19 restrictions on travel and social distancing, the Department will, in so far as possible, facilitate zoos regarding licence expiry dates and meeting licence conditions. Once it is safe to do so, zoo inspections will resume. There is no licence fee charged to cover the costs associated with the inspection and licensing processes; these costs are met by the Department.
In recent days, my Department has been informed by several zoos that they plan to reopen as soon as the restrictions around COVID-19 allow and are putting in place well thought out and comprehensive plans for doing so. The Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation has published the National Return to Work Safely Protocol, which guides businesses in making their assessments and adapting their workplace procedures and practices to comply fully with the COVID-19 related public health protection measures.
1083. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the consultation between her Department and the National Parks and Wildlife Services prior to the decision to rescind the derogation on wood pigeon shooting during the summer months, considering the potential impact that this move could have on tillage farming and food supplies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7914/20]
View answer1085. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if clarification will be provided on a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7347/20]
View answer1086. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if matters raised in correspondence by a person (details supplied) will receive a response; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7351/20]
View answer1089. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the reason for the decision to ban the shooting of pigeons during the summer months in view of the fact they are a serious cause of damage to tillage crops; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7370/20]
View answer1093. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her plans to address a matter in relation to wood pigeon control (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7439/20]
View answer1094. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if a decision to lift the summer derogation on wood pigeon shooting will be reversed in view of the fact that affected stakeholders were not consulted and the derogation was introduced at a time when there is limited opportunity for scrutiny by Dáil Éireann of the decision; if the scientific evidence used in making the decision will be published; if a consultation process will be held with all stakeholders on the matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7445/20]
View answer1095. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if correspondence circulated from an organisation (details supplied) will receive a response. [7458/20]
View answer1097. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the scientific grounds on which she refused to sign the derogation permit in 2020 which allows farmers to shoot pigeons as part of their crop protection. [7693/20]
View answer1100. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if regulations on wood pigeon control will be deferred to allow for consultation with stakeholders (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7773/20]
View answer1101. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the reason the decision was taken to prohibit pigeon shooting (details supplied) from 31 May to 1 September 2020; if there was official consultation carried out with impacted stakeholders such as tillage farmers; and if she will review the decision in view of the way in which it may impact on tillage farmers with respect to protecting crops. [7837/20]
View answer1103. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the reason the derogation to shoot wood pigeons during the summer months was rescinded; if the scientific evidence that led to the decision will be published; if she will reinstate the derogation pending a full public consultation on this move; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7926/20]
View answer1104. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if her attention has been drawn to the concerns of an organisation (details supplied) and regional game councils in relation to the exclusion of wood pigeon from the derogation for June, July and August 2020; if her attention has been further drawn to the fact that the advice to farmers that fear serious damage to crops to apply for section 42 permits under the Wildlife Acts is not adequate due to delays that occur in the issue of such permits; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7952/20]
View answer1107. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she is committed to signing the derogation classifying wood pigeon as a pest species from 31 May to 1 September 2020 thus providing tillage farmers with crop protection. [8160/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1083, 1085, 1086, 1089, 1093 to 1095, inclusive, 1097, 1100, 1101, 1103, 1104 and 1107 together.
I signed the Wild Birds State Wide Declaration last month for the period 1 May 2020 to 30 April 2021 which allows the killing and capturing of certain wild bird species where they are causing damage to crops, livestock and fauna or represent a threat to public health or safety. The Declaration allowed for the shooting of wood pigeon to prevent serious damage to arable crops except for the months of June, July and August this year. As in previous years the renewal of the Declaration was the subject of consultation with relevant stakeholders such as hunting, conservation and farming bodies as well as the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department.
I made the decision at the time taking account of scientific advice provided as part of the consultation. This raised concerns about the full year inclusion in the Declaration of wood pigeon on the basis that there is limited evidence to suggest that wood pigeon cause “serious damage” to crops during the summer. It was submitted that there is a lack of comprehensive studies into wood pigeon damage to crops to inform the decision to allow for year-round derogations for their control. Studies of wood pigeon food preference in Ireland from 2013 have shown that in spring, the diet of wood pigeons is dominated by fruit and seeds of trees (Ivy). In summer, the diet is variable and consists of a relatively equal proportion of cereal grains, clover and weed material.
This 2013 study further highlighted that cereal crops were only the preferred food during the autumn months (defined as August–October in the study). Based on current cropping systems, these crops were most likely consumed post-harvest i.e., harvest spillage left on stubble fields. While the derogation is given to ‘prevent serious damage to crops’ there is limited evidence to suggest ‘serious damage’ to crops occurs during the summer period. It was also indicated that shooting of wood pigeon during summer months could have indirect adverse effects on other species such as stock dove and it was recommended that there is a need to “undertake a contemporary review of the species interaction with crops with respect to damage ”.
Pending such a review, and on the basis of available literature and the “precautionary principle”, I considered it appropriate at the time that the wood pigeon would be removed from the Declaration for the summer months – June, July and August 2020.
At the same time, I recognised that if wood pigeons were seen to cause damage to crops during the summer, landowners could still avail of Section 42 permits under the Wildlife Acts i.e., permits, on a case by case basis, to prevent serious damage caused by individual species on specific lands.
Since the Declaration was signed last month I have considered the matter further in consultation with farming sector interests who raised concerns about the exclusion of the wood pigeon from the Declaration during the June to August period on the basis of damage to crop yield, damage to crops making them difficult to harvest and also faecal contamination.
In the circumstances and in light of potential damage highlighted by farming sector interests, I took the view that consideration of changing the status quo by removing the wood pigeon from the Declaration during this year’s summer could benefit from further information and studies.
Accordingly, I have decided that the status quo be reinstated for the wood pigeon this year i.e., that lethal means would be available to landowners during the three summer months June, July and August to prevent crop damage. I have signed a revised Declaration to this effect. Additionally, the issue of wood pigeon damage to crops during the summer months will be examined with a view to considering this issue in the 2021/22 year. A reply will issue to all correspondence received in my office on this matter.
