Kathleen Funchion
Question:999. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the total income received by childcare providers by ECCE and non-ECCE funding, respectively, in 2018 and 2019. [20044/20]
View answerChildcare Services
Questions (999)
Written answers
I have been informed by Pobal, the agency which administers early learning and care funding programmes on behalf of my Department, that the total payments made to providers in 2018 and 2019, for ECCE and non-ECCE funding, are as set out in the attached table.
|
- |
ECCE Payments |
Non ECCE Payments |
Totals |
|
2018 |
€303,923,553 |
€148,929,170 |
€452,852,723 |
|
2019 |
€331,755,166 |
€172,011,237 |
€503,766,403 |
Pobal has a dedicated e-mail enquiry service for Oireachtas members - oireachtasqueries@pobal.ie
Childcare Services
Questions (1000)
Kathleen Funchion
Question:1000. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of ECCE-only childcare providers, that is, providers that do not offer a service outside of ECCE provision; the amount of annual funding they received; the number of childcare providers in receipt of State funding in same; the amount of annual funding received; the number of providers in receipt of funding that do not provide ECCE; and the amount of annual funding providers received in 2018 and 2019, respectively. [20045/20]
View answerWritten answers
Officials in my Department are currently compiling the information as requested by the Deputy. This information will be supplied to the Deputy in no later than 10 working days. I have asked my officials to follow up on this to ensure delivery as a matter of urgency.
Sustainable Development Goals
Questions (1001)
Kathleen Funchion
Question:1001. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the way in which the commitment of Ireland to the sustainable development goals will be reflected in the Strategy and Work Plans 2020-2025; the way in which progress towards achieving the goals will be monitored and reported annually; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20048/20]
View answerWritten answers
Ireland has adopted a 'whole-of-Government' approach to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with each Minister having responsibility for implementing individual SDG targets related to their functions. As Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, I currently have responsibility for targets related to SDG 4.2. The transfer of disability, equality and inclusion to my Department will increase my role in and responsibility for SDG implementation.
SDG 4.2 states 'By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys have access to quality early childhood development, care and pre-primary education so that they are ready for primary education'.
SDG 4.2 is reflected in my Department's current Statement of Strategy 2019-2021, and will also be included in the new Statement of Strategy which must be prepared following my appointment as Minister. In accordance with the Public Service Management Act 1997 am annual report on implementation of the Statement of Strategy is also prepared.
SDG 4.2 is also reflected in First 5, the whole-of-Government strategy for babies, young children and their families. First 5 was published in November 2018, includes over 150 actions covering a broad a range of measures to support families given their fundamental importance in shaping children’s experiences and outcomes. The First 5 Implementation Plan, published in May 2019, sets out how these actions will be progressed in the coming three years. A First 5 Implementation Report will be published on an annual basis. Owing to COVID-19, the First 5 Annual Implementation Report 2019 was delayed. However, it is planned to publish this in Q4 2020.
SDG 17.7 is reflected in Ireland’s work to promote and encourage the voice of children and young people in decision making in line with Ireland’s committee to implement Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. In this regard DCYA leads on Ireland’s National Strategy for Children and Young People's Participation in Decision Making, 2015-2020, a constituent strategy of Better Outcomes, Brighter Future. Implementation and governance for the Participation Strategy lies within the overall BOBF Structures and in addition the DCYA has established an implementation network for the key Depts and Agencies with responsibilities under the strategy. Comhairle na nÓg, Comhairle na nÓg National Executive and Dáil na nÓg all operate as permanent youth participation structures to give children and young people a voice in policy decision making both nationally and locally. These strucutres are very often added to or complimented with additional participation initiatives as relevant to the policy focus. The Strategy Implementation group, comprised of nominees across a range of Government Departments and Agencies met in July 2020 to examine and review a new pilot National Participation Framework.
Covid-19 Pandemic
Questions (1002)
Kathleen Funchion
Question:1002. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the breakdown of the funding announcement of €300 million on 24 July 2020; and if the funding only covers the employment wage subsidy scheme within the July jobs stimulus between 24 August and 31 December 2020. [20298/20]
View answerWritten answers
On 25 July, I announced a package of measures to support the Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School-Age Childcare (SAC) sector as remaining services reopen in late August and early September. This is a substantial investment of just under €300 million in the period from 24 August to the end of the year. It recognises the importance of the sector for children’s positive development and in terms of supporting the economy to return to normal.
The funding package for the ELC and SAC sector includes three significant elements, listed below, along with an estimate of the cost of each element:
- Continuation of all DCYA ELC and SAC subsidy schemes (NCS, CCSP, TEC) and resumption of the ECCE Programme for the 2020/21 programme year at existing capitation and subsidy rates. This is expected to cost up to €209m for the period 24 August - 31 December.
- Access for registered childcare providers to the Revenue-operated Employment Wage Support Scheme (EWSS). This is expected to cost €84.7m up to December 31.
- A sustainability fund will be accessible to providers (not-for-profit and for-profit) who can demonstrate that the other measures are not sufficient by themselves to enable viable operation of their business. €2m is available in this fund.
A key policy priority of my Department is the sustainability of the sector and this package of measures will support services to re-open and operate in a viable manner despite lower occupancy and extra operating costs. The continued financial support also prevents parents from having to pay higher fees to cover extra COVID-19 related costs.
In addition to this funding package, my Department has introduced, on a temporary basis, added flexibility on attendance rules. This is necessary due to the likelihood of greater variability in patterns of usage by children and families.
This funding package is part of the wider Government effort to reopen the economy. ELC and SAC providers may also be eligible for a range of other supports from Government, including the Credit Guarantee Scheme, the 6-month waiver of commercial rates, the Restart Grant for Enterprises, the early carry-back of trading losses for previously profitable companies, the new income tax relief for self-employed individuals who were profitable in 2019 but as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic incur losses in 2020, and legislation for the previously announced warehousing of tax liabilities.
National Carers' Strategy
Questions (1003)
Pauline Tully
Question:1003. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if a new and updated national carers’ strategy will be published with a dedicated budget and time frame to ensure the implementation of all actions; the timetable for publication of this strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20367/20]
View answerWritten answers
My colleague the Minister for Health continues to have lead policy responsibility at present for the National Carers Strategy.
Assisted Decision-Making
Questions (1004)
Seán Sherlock
Question:1004. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs when he proposes to table promised amendments to the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015; and the time frame for the enactment of the amendments. [20462/20]
View answerWritten answers
I wish to advise the Deputy that I am not in a position to comment on the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015. These matters are more appropriate for the attention of my Cabinet colleague, the Minister for Justice.
Direct Provision System
Questions (1005)
Seán Sherlock
Question:1005. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the time frame for the transfer of the direct provision accommodation system from the Department of Justice and Equality to his Department. [20464/20]
View answerWritten answers
Detailed discussions between officials at my Department and at the Department of Justice are ongoing with regard to the transfer of functions between both Departments.
Functions relating to Equality, Disability, Domestic Violence and Direct Provision are transferring to my Department under the Programme for Government. These are very significant policy and operational areas and I want to ensure that the transfer is conducted in an effective and timely manner. In order to achieve this, officials are examining the relevant functions, legislation, funding and staffing involved. My intention is for this business to be concluded as soon as possible and for the Transfer of Functions Order to be then completed.
Childcare Services
Questions (1006)
Seán Sherlock
Question:1006. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs his plans to implement the recommendations of the INFORM report previously provided to his Department regarding the introduction of universal public childcare here. [20466/20]
View answerWritten answers
State investment in Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School-Age Childcare (SAC) has increased by an unprecedented 141% over the past 5 budgets (from €260m to €638m). This has enabled, for example, a doubling of the ECCE programme to two years, a doubling of the number of children availing of State subsidies, a 60% increase in ELC and SAC places, greater access to ELC and SAC for children with additional needs and development of the new National Childcare Scheme.
The Programme for Government acknowledges that more needs to be done to tackle the challenges of accessibility, affordability and quality of ELC and SAC and that more investment is needed.
First 5, the whole-of-Government strategy for babies, young children and their families pledges to at least double State investment in ELC and SAC by 2028. It also commits to ensure this additional investment delivers for children, families and the State .
There are a number of reform projects committed to in First 5 and in the Programme for Government that have relevance to the recommendations of the INFORM report, including the review of the operating system, the development of a new funding model for ELC and SAC, and the development of a Workforce Development Plan.
This week I announced that I will shortly establish an Inter-Departmental Group (IDG) to commence a review of the operating and oversight model used to support accessible, affordable and high quality ELC and SAC services. The operating model resulting from the review should better support service providers, operate transparently and accountably, provide value for money to the Exchequer and demonstrate good governance. The model would enable appropriate linkages and effective working relationships with all other agencies and Departments charged with delivering better outcomes for children and families.
An Expert Group to develop the new funding model has been convened and work is well underway. This Group is composed of renowned academics, top level economists and experienced policy makers from Ireland and elsewhere – all of whom have an enormous breadth of knowledge and experience. The Expert Group’s Terms of Reference are as follows:
- Agree a set of guiding principles to underpin the new Funding Model for Early Learning and Care and School Age
- Review the existing approach to funding Early Learning and Care and School Age Childcare services by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs in terms of its alignment with the guiding principles as well as effectiveness in delivering on the policy objectives of quality, affordability, accessibility and contributing to addressing disadvantage
- Drawing on international evidence, identify and consider options on how additional funding for Early Learning and Care and School Age Childcare could be structured to deliver on the guiding principles and above policy objectives
- Agree a final report including a proposed design for a new Funding Model, with accompanying costings, risk analysis and mitigation and phased implementation plan (with funding likely to become available on an incremental basis) to recommend to the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs and ultimately Government.
Six meetings of the Group have been held to date and documentation from these meeting is publicly available at www.first5fundingmodel.gov.ie.
A research partner has also been appointed to deliver evidence-based working papers to the Expert Group. Working papers on international approaches to funding, fees, staff wages and public investment in Ireland compared to other countries; potential mechanisms to control fees charged to parents, approaches to identifying children and/or services in need of additional support, and working conditions within the sector, have already been carried out and these are now being considered by the Expert Group. Other papers are under development. Working papers will be published from later this year.
Preparation of a Workforce Development Plan for the ELC and SAC sector is also well underway. This will set out plans to raise the profile of careers in the sector, establishing role profiles, career pathways, qualification requirements, and associated policy mechanisms, along with leadership development opportunities and measures to deliver a more gender-balanced and diverse workforce.
In all of this work, DCYA is committed to continuing to engage with key stakeholders, including children, families, providers and the workforce. Owing to COVID-19, a series of regional consultation events due to take place in March had to be cancelled. However, over the coming weeks and months, the Funding Model and Workforce Development Groups will be inviting interested parties to make written submissions and to participate in online conversations on future funding and the future workforce.
Departmental Staff
Questions (1007)
Catherine Murphy
Question:1007. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if he will provide a schedule of advisers, special advisers and seconded civil servants currently working in his Department appointed and or recruited and or in an acting capacity; the roles and responsibilities attributed to each; and the salary scale for the role in tabular form. [20613/20]
View answerWritten answers
On the commencement of every Dáil, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform issues guidelines setting out the arrangements for the staffing of Ministerial Offices. The appointment of Special Advisers is subject to section 11 of the Public Service Management Act 1997.
The Guidelines for the 33rd Dáil, which incorporate the principles of section 11 of the PMSA Act, are currently awaiting Government approval.
The appointment of individual Special Advisers is a matter for each Government Minister subject to the terms set out in the aforementioned guidelines, although the appointments are also subject to formal Government approval. At this stage, no Special Advisers have been formally appointed to my Department by the Government.
However, the Deputy may wish to note that I have identified two individuals to work with me as Special Advisers and that they will be formally appointed by the Government once the Guidelines have been approved.
The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform must be notified of the rate of salary to be paid in all cases for Special Advisers. These rates will then be published on the website of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
With regard to staff seconded to my Department, the following table provides the required information. The Civil Service Salary Scales are available on the Gov.ie website.
|
Grade |
Area of work |
|
Assistant Principal (9) |
Early Years x2 Research & Evaluation x 2 Legal Unit x 2 External HR x 1 Historic Burials x 1 Finance x 1 |
|
Administrative Officer (1) |
Research & Evaluation |
Departmental Expenditure
Questions (1008)
Bríd Smith
Question:1008. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the payments for services or goods by his Department to a company (details supplied) since 2015. [20770/20]
View answerWritten answers
I can confirm that there was no expenditure directly incurred by my Department since 2015 in regard to services or goods provided by the named company.
Childcare Services
Questions (1009)
Violet-Anne Wynne
Question:1009. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the position regarding the payments to childcare providers; if the payments from his Department will continue following forced closures due to the Covid-19 pandemic; his plans to ensure continued support for the early years sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20874/20]
View answerWritten answers
On 25 July I announced a package of measures to support the Early Learning and Care (ELC) and School-Age Childcare (SAC) sector as services reopen in late August and early September. This is a substantial investment of just under €300 million in the period from 24 August to the end of the year.
The funding package for the ELC and SAC sector includes three significant elements:
- continuation of all DCYA ELC and SAC subsidy schemes for the 2020/21 programme year at existing capitation and subsidy rates;
- access for Tusla registered providers to the Revenue-operated Employment Wage Support Scheme (EWSS), regardless of turnover;
- a sustainability fund will be accessible to providers (not-for-profit and for-profit) who can demonstrate that the other measures are not sufficient by themselves to enable viable operation of their business.
In addition to this funding package, my Department has introduced, on a temporary basis, added flexibility on attendance rules for programmes, other than ECCE, due to the need for some service providers to stagger drop-off and collection times. This will assist providers to maximise income and reduce costs.
Any individual service which is required to close by public health authorities, due to a confirmed or suspected case of Covid-19 in that service, may apply to my Department for force majeure permission to close as per the rules governing the programmes.
Departmental Advertising
Questions (1010)
Alan Kelly
Question:1010. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if his Department has carried out advertising campaigns to promote policies or programmes being implemented by same; if so, if he will provide the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising and outdoor advertising; the cost of consultancy or production costs in each of the past two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21022/20]
View answerWritten answers
Details of expenditure by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs on advertising campaigns to support policies and programmes during 2019 and in 2020 to date are set out in the table below:
|
Policy/Programme |
Year |
|
Broadcast* |
Outdoor |
Consultancy/Production |
|
Supporting Children Campaign |
2020 |
0 |
€12,164 |
0 |
€25,135 |
|
Parents Centre Campaign |
2020 |
0 |
€12,138 |
0 |
€2,312 |
|
Early Years Childcare Reopening |
2020 |
0 |
€0 |
0 |
€5,781 |
|
National Childcare Scheme |
2019 |
€16,552 |
€493,777 |
€270,686 |
€167,597 |
|
Youth Reform - LGBTI+ (Pride) |
2019 |
€5,904 |
€65 |
0 |
€4,467 |
*includes Social Media & Digital
Parental Leave
Questions (1011)
Claire Kerrane
Question:1011. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will extend parent’s leave to 9 weeks as committed to in section 5, Part 8 of the Parent’s Leave and Benefit Act 2019 with immediate effect to assist mothers who are due to return to work but have no childcare available to them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20069/20]
View answerWritten answers
The Parent’s Leave and Benefit Bill 2019 provides for two weeks of parent’s leave and benefit for all new parents in employment or self-employment in respect of children born or placed for adoption on or after 1 November 2019. This is to facilitate parents in spending more time with their children in their critical first year of life. The Government is currently considering a proposal to advance the extension of Parent’s Leave and Benefit to five weeks for all parents of children born after 1 November 2019, to enable every eligible parent of young children to spend additional time with their child.
The Government proposal would mean that eligible parents of children born during the pandemic crisis will get an extra three weeks of Parent’s Leave to offset the impact of having a child during the strict lockdown measures. The period in which Parent’s Leave can be taken will also be extended from one year to two years. This, and related costs, will be considered as part of the Budget 2021 process. The support is paid at a rate of €245 per week.
Parental leave is also available which entitles parents to take unpaid leave from work to spend time looking after their children. Parents can take up to 22 weeks of parental leave for each eligible child before their 12th birthday.
Covid-19 Pandemic Supports
Questions (1012)
Mairéad Farrell
Question:1012. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the amount of the €24 million allocated for capital projects in the justice sector as part of the July stimulus plan that will be comprised of new projects rather than the enhancement of existing ones. [20723/20]
View answerWritten answers
I wish to advise the Deputy that the funding is provided for a range of projects across Garda, Prisons and Courts including new projects and projects which had been part of existing enhancement and building programmes. These projects will now be accelerated due to the funding provided in the July Stimulus Plan.
The breakdown is as follows:
|
Courts |
€5 million |
|
Criminal Trials – Additional costs for leasing, fit out and basic ICT installation in relation to hosting criminal jury trials to address the backlog following Covid-19 while observing social distancing and national guidelines at a number of new locations in Dublin and nationwide. |
|
|
Condition Surveys – Additional costs will be required for the remediation, due to Health & Safety and structural issues, at a number of courthouses, which will need to be addressed in the near future to allow for continued use of the premises. These remediation works will be spread throughout the country and provide a stimulus to the construction sector. |
|
|
Traffic Court – The Traffic Court building is located on Smithfield Square and has been vacant for approximately 20 years. The condition survey carried out in 2019 indicates that significant works will be required immediately to address the defects identified to get this building to an acceptable standard. |
|
|
Sustainable Energy Initiatives – A series of small projects can be progressed. As the capability of the unit increases, the number/scale of projects can be increased in future years in tandem with increased funding. It will not be possible for Courts Service to meet its energy targets without dedicated funding to this area. |
|
|
Prisons |
€8 million |
|
The Irish Prison service has continuous demands for minor/mid-scale refurbishments - security related works (drug throwover/escape prevention etc. in addition to nationwide carbon related led lighting replacement (internal/external) and fire alarm upgrading/replacement. There are also issues with leaking roofs in several locations because of recent severe weather events as well as window replacement/laundry/equipment upgrading requirements. |
|
|
Garda |
€11 million |
|
Stations to support the establishment of the Business Services hub under the new operating model of AGS |
|
|
Custody management facilities in stations, (prisoner processing areas and custody CCTV) |
|
|
Immigration facilities at Sea Ports and Airports |
|
|
Public Office facilities for meeting members of the community, including universal access |
|
|
Garda HQ to meet the requirements of new Units being established |
|
|
Garda stations to support the establishment of Protective Service Units in a number of Divisions |
|
|
Provision of Special Victim Interview Suites |
|
|
The above work will be carried out across a number of Garda divisions, such as Clare, Cork, Laois/Offaly, Donegal, DMR North, Meath, Mayo, Waterford, Kerry and Roscommon/Longford. |
|
Assisted Decision-Making
Questions (1013)
Pat Buckley
Question:1013. Deputy Pat Buckley asked the Minister for Justice and Equality her plans to commit to a timeline for the commencement of all sections of the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 especially in relations to wards of court [20763/20]
View answerWritten answers
The Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 (“the 2015 Act”) provides a modern statutory framework to support decision-making by adults with capacity difficulties. The 2015 Act was signed into law on 30 December 2015 but has not yet been fully commenced. The Act provides for the establishment of new administrative processes and support measures, including the setting up of the Decision Support Service (DSS) within the Mental Health Commission (a body under the Department of Health).
A number of provisions of the 2015 Act were commenced in October 2016 in order to progress the setting up of the Decision Support Service and enable the recruitment of the Director of the DSS. Ms Áine Flynn was appointed Director of the DSS on 2 October 2017. The commencement of Part 8 of the Act, which provides a legislative framework for advance healthcare directives, is a matter for the Minister for Health. The Minister for Health brought some provisions of Part 8 of the Act into operation on 17 October 2016 to provide for the establishment, by the Minister for Health, of a multi-disciplinary group to make recommendations to the Director of the DSS in relation to codes of practice on advance healthcare directives. In anticipation of the completion of that process, the Minister for Health commenced the remainder of section 91 on 17 December 2018.
Part 6 of the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 provides for the phased transition from adult wardship to the new decision-making support arrangements that will be available under the 2015 Act. It provides for the review by the wardship court of the capacity of all current adult wards of court within three years of the commencement of Part 6 of the 2015 Act. In each case, the ward shall be discharged from wardship and the court shall order that the property of the former ward be returned to him or her. The safeguards and procedures of the 2015 Act will apply to a former ward who transitions to any of the new decision-making support arrangements available under the 2015 Act. The current wards of court system will continue to operate until Part 6 of the 2015 Act is commenced. It is not possible to commence Part 6 of the Act until the DSS is operational and ready to roll out the new decision-making support options that will be available under the 2015 Act.
A range of amendments to the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 have been identified as necessary for the proper operation of the 2015 Act, taking account of issues raised by the Mental Health Commission, the working groups developing draft codes of practice under the 2015 Act, and submissions received from other bodies. The amendments to the 2015 Act will be brought forward by way of a stand-alone Bill. Work is ongoing in my Department on the General Scheme, with a view to Government approval being sought as soon as possible for the priority drafting of the Bill.
The implementation of the 2015 Act also requires that the DSS is fully operational and in a position to offer services including the new decision-making support options. A high-level Steering Group comprising senior officials from my Department, the Department of Health, the Mental Health Commission, the Courts Service and the HSE, together with the Director of the DSS, is overseeing the establishment and commissioning of the DSS and this work is ongoing. The Steering Group has given detailed consideration to the feasibility of commencing the remaining provisions of the Act however, due to the complexity of the Act and the interconnectivity of its provisions, it is not possible to make any further commencement orders until the DSS is operational. The DSS, led by its Director, is working on putting in place the necessary infrastructure to support the full commencement of the Act. The infrastructure required includes, amongst many other elements, ICT capability for the DSS. These preparations are being implemented under the oversight of the Steering Group and will allow for commencement orders for the main operative provisions of the 2015 Act to be made when the necessary preparations have been completed to enable the DSS to roll out the new decision-making support options.
My Department has sought and received funding, through the Estimates process, over the last three years to assist the DSS in delivering on its mandate. Further funding will be necessary through the Estimates process in 2020 and 2021. In the interim, and subject to the funding allocation, my Department, in conjunction with the DSS, the Mental Health Commission and other stakeholders have agreed to an implementation plan which anticipates commencement of DSS services in mid-2022. There are also critical dependencies for the DSS on other organisations, including, for example, the Courts Service, the HSE and the Department of Health amongst others, which need to be delivered in order to achieve this timeline. The Steering Group has been meeting regularly to ensure a coordinated approach to the implementation of this project.
As this is a function that is due to transfer, it will of course be a matter for my colleague, Mr. Roderic O'Gorman, T.D., the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, to bring this matter forward.
Garda Stations
Questions (1014)
Duncan Smith
Question:1014. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the timeline for Rush Garda station to be opened. [19590/20]
View answerWritten answers
The Deputy will be aware that the Office of Public Works has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. Works in relation to Garda accommodation are therefore progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works (OPW).
I am advised that the works required to reopen Rush Garda station have been completed and that the building has been handed over by the OPW to the Garda authorities.
I am informed however, that in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, the IT works which will be required prior to Rush station becoming operational have not yet been carried out.
More generally, and as the Deputy may be aware, as part of its action to mitigate the risks around the transmission of COVID-19 between Garda personnel and/or members of the public, Garda management has identified a range of alternative accommodation including educational institutions, local community facilities and so on, which are available to Garda management across the country in order to assist in protecting members and staff against COVID-19. I understand that these facilities, where in use, are acting as a facility supplementary to the local Garda Station, to ensure compliance with social distancing guidelines, minimising the concentration of personnel in a particular location. This contributes to the protection of Garda members and staff and to the organisational resilience of An Garda Síochána.
I am informed that, in a similar context, Rush station is currently being held as a contingency building, in the event other stations become impacted by COVID-19 infection. I am further advised that when the public health situation allows, Rush Garda station will reopen to the public.
Refugee Resettlement Programme
Questions (1015)
Duncan Smith
Question:1015. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of persons who arrived here under phase 1 of the Irish Refugee Protection Programme 2015-2019 who have progressed to independent living in local communities by relocated persons, resettled persons, IHAP beneficiaries and other. [19591/20]
View answerWritten answers
The Irish Refugee Protection Programme (IRPP) was established in 2015 to deliver upon Government commitments to accept up to 4,000 people into the State in response to the migration crisis in central and Southern Europe. A total of 3,358 people have arrived in Ireland to date under the various strands of the IRPP.
To date, 1,006 persons have been housed in the community by way of the Relocation strand and a further 1,483 persons have been similarly housed in the community by way of the UNHCR-led Resettlement strand. The figures above do not include children who have been born to refugees since their arrival in Ireland. In addition, 6 unaccompanied minors who arrived as part of the EU Relocation strand, were taken under the care of Tusla on arrival.
Persons granted permission to travel to Ireland under the Humanitarian Admissions Programme (IHAP) make their own arrangements for travel, the exact timing of which is not known to the Department. We can confirm however that, to date, 276 persons have informed the IRPP Unit of their arrival. IHAP beneficiaries are responsible for their own housing arrangements and may stay with a family member or live independently in the community should they so choose. Those granted permission under the IRPP as Programme Refugees are entitled to the same State housing assistance and supports as Irish Citizens and may apply for housing or Housing Assistance Payments on their own or with assistance from various support groups.
147 persons entered the State under other mechanisms (Mediterranean Search and Rescue Missions, Calais Special Project, and Unaccompanied Minors from Greece). Through the Mediterranean Search and Rescue Missions strand, 90 adults and 8 unaccompanied minors have arrived in Ireland to date. A total of 41 unaccompanied minors have arrived in the State as part of the Calais Special Project. Tusla coordinated the selection and arrival of a further 8 unaccompanied minors from Greece. Tusla are responsible for the care and accommodation of unaccompanied minors and accommodation for adults in these groups is provided through the International Protection system.
Refugee Resettlement Programme
Questions (1016)
Duncan Smith
Question:1016. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the outstanding commitments made under phase 1 of the Irish Refugee Protection Programme 2015-2019 will be realised in the first year of the recently announced phase 2 2020-2023, in particular the 581 persons yet to arrive via the IRPP Humanitarian Admission Programme. [19592/20]
View answerWritten answers
In 2015, as part of Ireland's response to the migration crisis in central and southern Europe, the Government established the Irish Refugee Protection Programme (IRPP). Under this programme, the Government committed to accepting up to 4,000 people into the State, primarily through a combination of the EU Relocation Programme and the UNHCR's Refugee Resettlement Programme.
A total of 3,358 people have arrived in Ireland to date under the various strands of the IRPP. The remaining 642 allocated commitments under various Strands of the Programme are yet to be completed. My Department is committed to realising these outstanding commitments in line with our obligations under the Programme.
A total of 1,022 people have been welcomed into Ireland under the EU's relocation mechanism, which fulfilled Ireland's commitment to this Strand of the Programme.
Under the UNHCR-led Resettlement Strand, a commitment was made to resettle 1,985 people, of which 1,913 Resettlements were completed by the end of last year. A balance of 72 people remain to be resettled from Lebanon and Jordan to meet the full commitment. Of this, 30 persons had been interviewed and selected during missions to Lebanon and Jordan in 2019. They were unable to travel, initially due to documentation and health reasons, and subsequently the international travel restrictions in place due to COVID-19. On the advice of the Defence Forces, it was not possible for staff from my Department to travel to Beirut to complete the selection of this cohort in late 2019.
In March 2020, IRPP staff returned to Ireland from Beirut having successfully interviewed over 220 persons. This selection mission was cut short due to Covid-19 international travel restrictions. The resumption of international arrivals, selection missions and resettlements will take place once it is safe to do so with a view to the impact of Covid-19 travel restrictions.
Under other mechanisms (the Calais Special Project, Mediterranean Search and Rescue Missions and the admission of Unaccompanied Minors from Greece), a commitment was made to admit 240 people, of which 147 have arrived including 41 unaccompanied minors under the Calais Special Project, which has now concluded. The International Protection Office and Tusla continue to coordinate the selection and arrival of people under the remaining strands.
Under the IRPP Humanitarian Admission Programme 2018/19 (IHAP), a commitment was made to admit 740 family members of refugees. There will be some delay in the completion of the IHAP strand, as those granted permission to travel to Ireland make their own arrangements for travel, the exact timing of which is not known to the Department. My Department has received several requests for time extensions from IHAP applicants who are experiencing difficulties in obtaining visas or travel documentation for their family members due to the ongoing global pandemic. In such cases my Department has adopted a pragmatic approach and has attempted to facilitate those affected. The total number of IHAP beneficiaries who have arrived in the State to date is 276.
My Department resumed the acceptance of visa applications from Monday 22 June 2020. Applications are being accepted through our commercial partner, VFS, in seven locations overseas where we have visa offices, as well as in the Dublin Visa office . The seven visa offices overseas are based in China, India, UAE, Turkey, Nigeria, Russia and the United Kingdom. Restrictions remain in place in some of these countries so, where it was not possible to resume from 22 June 2020, these offices intend to resume accepting visa applications as soon as possible. The extent of the resumption of visa services will continue to be decided in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) and Health Service Executive (HSE) guidelines both in Ireland and globally.
During the initial phase of re-opening, the visa offices are only accepting Long Stay ‘D’ visa applications, including study, as well as those identified under the current criteria as Emergency/Priority Short Stay visas. Immigration Service Delivery will also endeavour to prioritise visa applications for IHAP beneficiaries. Applicants are advised to contact their local Mission/Visa Office when they are in a position to travel and they will get appropriate advice in terms of the next steps. For up to date information on each location, IHAP beneficiaries are advise to continue to monitor the website of their local Irish Embassy, Mission or Visa Office.
There are a further 13 places not yet allocated to any of the mechanisms mentioned above which will complete Ireland's commitment under the first phase of the IRPP.
Garda Resources
Questions (1017, 1018)
Duncan Smith
Question:1017. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the details of the provision of additional Garda resources for the Fingal area, which has a growing population and an increase in crime across many categories year on year; the timeline for delivery of resources; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19593/20]
View answerDuncan Smith
Question:1018. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of the provision of permanent Garda resources to Donabate, including plans for a Garda station, in view of the fact the population is set to exceed 20,000 over the next ten years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19594/20]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 1017 and 1018 together.
The Deputy will be aware that the Garda Commissioner is by law responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including personnel matters and the deployment of resources. As Minister, I have no role in these matters. I am assured, however, that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.
The Deputy will appreciate that the Office of Public Works (OPW) has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. As a result, all works related to the Garda estate involve close cooperation between the OPW and the Garda authorities.
The programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the OPW which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation.
The Garda Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021 is based on agreed Garda priorities and benefits over 30 locations around the country, underpinned by significant Exchequer funding across the Garda and OPW Votes. The objective of this investment is to address deficiencies in the Garda estate and provide fit-for-purpose facilities for Garda members and staff as well as the public interacting with them.
I am informed that the current Garda Building and Refurbishment Programme does not include the development of a new Garda station in Donabate, Co. Dublin. The determination of the need for a new Garda Station there, or in other location, will be considered by An Garda Síochána in the context of the overall accommodation requirements arising from the ongoing expansion of the Garda workforce, the policing reform plan, A Policing Service For the Future, and the implementation of the new Garda operating model which will inform the overall accommodation priorities of An Garda Síochána over the years 2022-2026.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the area of interest to the Deputy is policed by Swords Garda station and that dedicated Garda patrols are detailed for that area. The area is also regularly patrolled by Divisional and Regional Roads Policing Units and the Burglary Response Unit.
The resources provided to An Garda Síochána have reached unprecedented levels, with an allocation for 2020 of €1.88 billion. This level of funding is enabling sustained, ongoing recruitment of Garda members and staff. As at 30 June 2020, there are now approximately 14,700 Gardaí nationwide, supported by over 3,000 Garda staff and these numbers are continuing to grow.
This total figure includes the Garda trainees from two separate intake classes who attested earlier than scheduled in March 2020, following an operational decision by the Garda Commissioner to augment An Garda Síochána's capacity to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A detailed breakdown of the Garda workforce, including both Garda members and staff, is available on my Department’s website. Details of Garda deployment for all Garda Divisions, as furnished to me by An Garda Síochána, is available at the following link:
http://www.justice.ie/en/JELR/002_Garda_Numbers_by_Division_District_and_Station_2009_to_June_2020.xlsx/Files/002_Garda_Numbers_by_Division_District_and_Station_2009_to_June_2020.xlsx.
This information is updated every month with the latest data provided by An Garda Síochána and published on my Department's website, in the interests of transparency and for the convenience of Deputies and the wider public.
Additional information on the Garda workforce, as furnished to me by An Garda Síochána, is available at the following link: http://www.justice.ie/en/JELR/Pages/Garda_Workforce.
Information on Garda staff, as furnished to me by An Garda Síochána, is available at: http://www.justice.ie/en/JELR/Pages/Garda_Staff.
Ministerial Transport
Questions (1019)
Alan Kelly
Question:1019. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the estimated cost of the purchase of a new Garda car for the Minister for Foreign Affairs (details supplied); the estimated cost of the new car and two Garda drivers; and the way this is going to be replaced in the budget of An Garda Síochána. [19628/20]
View answerWritten answers
I am advised by the Garda authorities that the current contract for the purchase of executive vehicles expired in March 2020, the Office of Government Procurement is currently completing a tender competition. Consequently it would not be appropriate to detail the purchase price of ministerial vehicles in case this may prejudice the tender completion.
I am also informed that there is currently no requirement to purchase new vehicles as requirements can be met from the vehicles allocated to the Ministerial pool.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that the average salary cost of a Garda member allocated to the ministerial pool is €97,850, which includes salary, allowances, overtime, subsistence and employer overheads. The cost of two Garda drivers amounts to €189,700.
Ministerial Correspondence
Questions (1020)
Alan Kelly
Question:1020. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she, her Ministers of State and or advisers have ever used private email for any form of official Government use since the formation of the Government; and if so, if she will publish all such emails and corresponding documents immediately. [19641/20]
View answerWritten answers
My Department has a clear policy in which staff are directed not to use third-party or web-based email accounts to send or receive Departmental information, not least because the method is much less secure than Departmental systems.
Thus it is not the standard practice amongst officials within my Department, nor is it my standard practice nor that of my advisors, to use personal email accounts for Departmental business. However, the issue of personal email accounts for work-related business may on rare occasions arise out of necessity, for example where ICT systems are inaccessible.
I understand that my colleague, Minister of State McConalogue was in contact with his Private Secretary from his personal email account on two occasions, as the attachments being forwarded were blocked by the Department’s IT system. Similarly, one of my Special Advisers used his personal email address for a brief period for responses to press queries and the preparation of media responses. A personal email account was used until his Departmental email account had been set up, and IT access issues had been resolved.
I have only used a personal email account on a small number of occasions while waiting for a personal Departmental email account to be accessible.
Ministerial Meetings
Questions (1021)
Alan Kelly
Question:1021. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the meetings she and her Ministers of State have had since the formation of the Government by date, in tabular form (details supplied). [19658/20]
View answerWritten answers
Since the formation of the Government on 27 June 2020 Minister Helen McEntee has had 54 meetings and Minister for State Charlie McConalogue has had 18 meetings.
Minister Helen McEntee
29 June 2020
14:00 Cabinet meeting
30 June 2020
11:00 Video Conference (Department of Foreign Affairs)
18:00 Party related meeting
03 July 2020
10:00 Fine Gael meeting
11:00 COVID Cabinet Committee meeting
14:30 Visit to Castlerea Garda Station
06 July 2020
10:00 Meeting with Garda Commissioner at Slane Garda Station
12:00 Justice & Home Affairs: Informal Meeting of Justice Ministers
13:30 Pre-Cabinet meeting
15:00 Cabinet meeting
17:00 Meeting with Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection and Minister for Children and Youth Affairs
07 July 2020
08:30 Justice & Home Affairs: Informal Meeting of Justice Ministers
08 July 2020
14:00 Meeting with Garda Commissioner
16:30 Meeting with Minister for Children and Youth Affairs
18:00 Parliamentary Party meeting
10 July 2020
11:30 Phonecall with Inspector of Prisons
14:30 Meeting with Attorney General
13 July 2020
14:15 Pre-Cabinet meeting
15:00 Cabinet Meeting
14 July 2020
09:00 Meeting with Minister of State at Department of Finance
17:00 Meeting with Inspector of Prisons
15 July 2020
09:00 Meeting with Chief Justice
12:00 Meeting with Minister McConalogue
15:30 Meeting with Policing Authority
17:30 Cabinet Meeting
16 July 2020
09:00 Meeting with Brendan Howlin T.D.
10:00 Meeting with Martin Kenny T.D.
11:00 Meeting with Garda Siochána Ombudsman Commission
12:00 Meeting with Garda Inspectorate
15:00 Meeting of European Peoples Party
17 July 2020
11.00 Dundalk Garda Station
20 July 2020
19:00 Incoporeal Cabinet meeting
21 July 2020
10:00 Visit to Midlands Prison
12:30 Phonecall with Minister Naomi Long MLA
14:00 Meeting with National Women's Council
20:30 Cabinet meeting
22 July 2020
09:00 Meeting with CEO Courts Service
12:00 Meeting with the Garda Representative Association
13:15 Meeting with the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors
14:30 Teleconference with Alliance for Insurance Reform
17:30 Parliamentary Party (AGM)
23 July 2020
11:00 Meeting with Minister Patrick O'Donovan OPW
14:30 Cabinet Meeting
17:30 Meeting with Minister McConalogue
24 July 2020
08:30 Visit to Navan Garda Station
27 July 2020
12:00 Meeting with Tom O'Malley SC
14:00 Pre-cabinet meeting
15:00 Cabinet Meeting
28 July 2020
09:30 Meeting with Rape Crisis Network Ireland
11:30 Meeting with Association of Garda Superintendents
12:45 Meeting with Association of Garda Chief Superintendents with Minister McConalogue
20:30 Meeting with Minister for Children and Youth Affairs
29 July 2020
08:45 Phonecall with Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice (UK)
14:00 Meeting with Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine
Minister for State Charlie McConalogue
08 July 2020
19:15 Parliamentary Party Meeting
15 July 2020
12:00 Meeting with Minister McEntee
16 July 2020
09:00 Meeting with Minister McEntee and Brendan Howlin T.D.
10:00 Meeting with Minister McEntee and Martin Kenny T.D.
11:00 Meeting with Garda Siochána Ombudsman Commission
12:00 Meeting with Garda Inspectorate
Monday 20 July 2020
10:00 Visit to Letterkenny Garda Station
12:00 Visit to Milford Garda Station
13:45 Visit to Co-lab Building
14:00 Meeting Chief Superintendent Terry McGinn
15:00 Visit to Buncrana Garda Station
22 July 2020
12:00 Meeting with the Garda Representative Association
13:15 Meeting with the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors
17:30 Parliamentary Party Meeting
23 July 2020
17:30 Meeting with Minister Entee
28 July 2020
11:30 Meeting with Association of Garda Superintendents
12:45 Meeting with Association of Garda Chief Superintendents
29 July 2020
14:00 Meeting Minister Calleary and Chief Inspector Bill Callanan
Ministerial Advisers
Questions (1022)
Alan Kelly
Question:1022. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will provide details of her advisers and those of the Ministers of State; the remuneration packages of same; and the date of commencement in their role. [19675/20]
View answerWritten answers
On the commencement of every Dáil, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform issues guidelines setting out the arrangements for the staffing of Ministerial Offices. The appointment of Special Advisers is subject to section 11 of the Public Service Management Act 1997.
The Guidelines for the 33rd Dáil, which incorporate the principles of section 11 of the PMSA Act, are currently awaiting Government approval.
The appointment of individual Special Advisers is a matter for each Government Minister subject to the terms set out in the aforementioned guidelines, although the appointments are also subject to formal Government approval. At this stage, no Special Advisers have been formally appointed to my Department by the Government.
However, the Deputy may wish to note that I have assigned two people to work with me as Special Advisers and those people will be formally appointed by the Government once the Guidelines have been approved.
The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform must be notified of the rate of salary to be paid in all cases for Special Advisers; these rates will then be published on the website of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
Irish Prison Service
Questions (1023)
Alan Kelly
Question:1023. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the actions she will take following receipt of correspondence from a person (details supplied) regarding the Irish Prison Service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19688/20]
View answerWritten answers
A number of complaints received by my Department from the named person are of a sensitive and confidential nature and they are the subject of ongoing independent investigations. It would not be appropriate for me to expand on the nature of these concerns.
Recent correspondence received is under consideration and I can confirm to the Deputy that I have written directly to the person named.