Tuesday, 17 Nov 2020

Written Answers Nos. 300-319

Public Procurement Contracts

Questions (300)

Mairéad Farrell

Question:

300. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a list of Departments, commercial and non-commercial State bodies and private entities that are subsidised by 50% or more with public funding, and which have implemented social clauses in public procurement contracts, will be provided in tabular form. [36525/20]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

My Department does not centrally record the use of social clauses in public procurement contracts by public bodies. 

The inclusion of strategic, green and social policy considerations in public procurement processes is, however, a key feature of the Programme for Government. In 2019, my Department and the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment, developed Circular 20/2019: Promoting the use of Environmental and Social Considerations in Public Procurement. The Circular highlights the potential for Departments to support wider social and environmental aims through public procurement. The Circular provides a clear signal of the direction of travel towards greener public procurement. The Circular also requires Departments to incorporate relevant green procurement measures into their planning and reporting cycles, with reporting arrangements due to commence this year. An Annual Report template is due to be published by the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment this year and each Department is required to report annually on progress in relation to Green Public Procurement starting with the 2020 Annual Report.

In addition, the Office of Government Procurement published an Information Note on Incorporating Social Considerations into Public Procurement in December 2018 and chairs a cross-departmental Social Considerations Advisory Group to bring together officials from policy Departments with procurement practitioners to share best practice and to facilitate the process of incorporating social and environmental considerations into public procurement.

Flood Relief Schemes

Questions (301, 302)

Johnny Mythen

Question:

301. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when the statutory public consultation period was conducted in relation to the flood relief scheme for the River Slaney, Enniscorthy town, County Wexford; when the review of these submissions will be complete; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36544/20]

Johnny Mythen

Question:

302. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when the reviews of the environmental impact assessment report and the Natura impact statement for the flood relief scheme for the River Slaney, Enniscorthy town, County Wexford were commenced; when it is anticipated that these reviews will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36545/20]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform

I propose to take Questions Nos. 301 and 302 together.

Wexford County Council (WCC) is progressing the Enniscorthy (River Slaney) flood defence scheme on behalf of the Commissioners of Public Works, under the Arterial Drainage Acts 1945 and 1995. This is a significant scheme within the Office of Public Works €1 billion flood relief investment programme, and on completion will protect 236 properties in the town.

The Scheme requires formal Confirmation from the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (MPER) to proceed. This is a statutory requirement under the Arterial Drainage Acts, which now, under the recent European Union (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Arterial Drainage) Regulations 2019, also requires the MPER to carry out an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of the proposed Scheme. This involves, inter alia, a formal review by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform of the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR), along with a Natura Impact Statement, as part of the formal Confirmation process.

The statutory public consultation period required in relation to this process ran from July 28th to August 28th. The initial phase of the EIAR and NIS reviews were carried out by consultants engaged for this purpose by DPER, during September and early October. On foot of submissions from the public consultation and the EIAR and NIS reviews, DPER have issued a Request for Further Information to the OPW for reply, pursuant to ADA regulations 2019, to ensure that the design of the scheme complies with relevant environmental directives and regulations. The OPW, Wexford County Council, and Mott Mc Donald consultants are currently reviewing the material received from DPER and will formally respond to the points raised by the review of the scheme by DPER and their consultants. As the review of the material has not yet been completed it is not possible to provide an accurate timeline for response. Completion of the above tasks and the progression of the flood relief scheme is a priority for all parties.

Brexit Issues

Questions (303, 309)

Aindrias Moynihan

Question:

303. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the core priorities of his Department with regard to the ongoing challenges presented by Brexit for County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36700/20]

Bernard Durkan

Question:

309. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which he remains satisfied that adequate measures have been taken in respect of public expenditure and reform to withstand the looming impact of Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37069/20]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

I propose to take Questions Nos. 303 and 309 together.

As both Deputies will be aware, the end of the Brexit transition period in just over six weeks will have significant implications for businesses and individuals right across Ireland, including in their own areas.

For that reason, the Government has been ramping up its preparations for Brexit in recent months following publication of an updated Brexit Readiness Action Plan in September. This sets out the measures that the Government is putting in place and the steps that businesses and individuals need to take to be ready for Brexit.

Budget 2021 provides around €340 million for Brexit measures, through the continuation of existing measures as well as a number of new supports. This is on top of more than €700 million of measures in successive Budgets since 2017.

In particular, the Budget provides further funding for a range of sectoral supports and additional resources for regulatory agencies, as well as a number of enhancements to existing tax-based measures in support of sectors and enterprises most affected by Brexit.

A whole of Government approach is being adopted to addressing the challenges posed by Brexit, and my Department is playing its full part in responding to those challenges through a dedicated Unit dealing with EU and Brexit issues that leads on Brexit work across the Department and its agencies and contributes to the wider Government response.

With attention now on the future relationship negotiations and the expiry of the transition period at the end of the year, my Department’s priorities for Brexit are:

- readiness for the conclusion of the transition period, including overseeing preparations at the ports and airports;

- implementation of aspects of the Withdrawal Agreement and Protocol;

- addressing certain policy areas that will be impacted by the negotiations, e.g. public procurement, EU funding and the new post-Brexit PEACE PLUS programme; and

- the ongoing public expenditure implications of Brexit response measures.

Office of Public Works

Questions (304)

Mairéad Farrell

Question:

304. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the properties which are vacant and are either owned or being rented by the Office of Public Works by county; the amount of rent paid to date on those vacant rented properties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36777/20]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform

The Office of Public Works (OPW) manages over 2,500 properties on behalf of the State. These include office accommodation, heritage properties, visitor centres, Garda stations, warehouses and others.  As would be normal for a portfolio of that size, there are a small number of non-operational or vacant properties and sites around the country. 

At present, there are just over 80 buildings vacant.  Over half of these are former Garda stations that were closed under the 2012/2013 policing plans of An Garda Síochána.  In late 2017, a review of the closed Garda stations identified six for re-opening.  The OPW was requested by An Garda Síochána in January 2018 not to dispose of or transfer any further closed Garda stations in State ownership until a further review overseen by the Policing Authority was concluded.  This review was carried out by the Garda Inspectorate and was published in December 2018.  The OPW engaged with An Garda Síochána on the outcome of the review in advance of proceeding with further disposals or consideration of alternative use.

Of the existing non-operational or vacant properties (buildings) listed below that have not been reassigned, a number are in the process of being transferred to local authorities, being considered/prepared for disposal, are under consideration for community use or are being retained for alternative State use.

As a matter of policy, no property is disposed of until there is absolute certainty that there is no alternative State use for it.  Alternative State use, in accordance with the OPW disposal policy, has been explored for each of those properties identified as being prepared for disposal.

The OPW’s policy on disposal of surplus State property is as follows:

1. Identify if the property is required/suitable for alternative State use by both Government departments and the wider public sector 

2. If there is no other State use identified for a property, the OPW will then consider disposing of the property on the open market if and when conditions prevail, in order to generate revenue for the Exchequer or

3. If no State requirement is identified, or if a decision is taken not to dispose of a particular property, the OPW may consider community involvement (subject to detailed written submission, which would indicate that the community/voluntary group has the means to insure, maintain and manage the property and that there are no ongoing costs for the Exchequer. 

Leased Property

There is one vacant leased property, which is the former Vehicle Registration Office in Carlow. The rent is €60,957.50 per annum and €45,725.64 has been spent to date in 2020.  As the lease expires in June 2021 it would not be feasible to put a new occupant in place..

List of vacant Properties (Buildings) not assigned – November 2020

County	Location	Property Type	Current status
County	Location	Property Type	Current status
Cavan	Redhills	Former Garda   station	Alternative State use being examined.
Cavan	Stradone	Former Garda   station	Being prepared for disposal
Clare	Broadford	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Clare	Doonbeg	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Clare	Inagh	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Clare	Lahinch	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Clare	Quin	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Cork	Adrigole	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Cork	Ballyfeard	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Cork	Ballygurteen	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Cork	Clonakilty	Former   Agricultural Offices	Alternative State use being examined.
Cork	Crosshaven   (cottage No. 4)	Former   Coastguard Cottage	Intra State Transfer to Cork Co. Co.
Cork	Crosshaven   (cottage No. 5)	Former   Coastguard Cottage	Intra State Transfer to Cork Co. Co.
Cork	Crosshaven   (cottage No. 7)	Former   Coastguard Cottage	Intra State Transfer to Cork Co. Co.
Cork	Crosshaven   (cottage No. 8)	Former   Coastguard Cottage	Intra State Transfer to Cork Co. Co.
Cork	Crosshaven   (cottage No. 9)	Former   Coastguard Cottage	Intra State Transfer to Cork Co. Co.
Cork	Crosshaven   (cottage No. 10)	Former   Coastguard Cottage	Intra State Transfer to Cork Co. Co.
Cork	Crosshaven   (cottage No. 11)	Former   Coastguard Cottage	Intra State Transfer to Cork Co. Co.
Cork	Goleen	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Cork	Knocknagree	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Cork	Rathduff	Former Garda   station	Alternative State use being examined.
Donegal	2 The Mall,   Ballyshannon	Residence	Being prepared for disposal.
Donegal	Bunbeg	Former Garda   station	Being prepared for disposal
Donegal	Buncrana	Former Garda   station	Being prepared for disposal
Donegal	Castlefin	Residence	Alternative State use being examined.
Donegal	Malin	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Donegal	Na Brocacha/   Cloghan	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Dublin	10-11 Castle   Street	Building	Retained for strategic purposes.
Dublin	44 O'Connell   Street	Building	Retained for strategic purposes.
Dublin	45 O'Connell   street	Building	Retained for strategic purposes.
Dublin	Dalkey	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Dublin	Halston Street.   (Former Debtors' Prison).	Building	Alternative State use being examined.
Dublin	Hawkins House	Building	Planning permission in place for redevelopment.
Dublin	Kill O'The   Grange	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Galway	Ballymoe	Former Garda   station	Under consideration by community group
Galway	Kiltullagh	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Galway	Leenane	Former Garda   station	Sale Agreed
Galway	Maam	Former Garda   station	Sale Agreed
Galway	Portumna	Former DSP   Office	Sale Agreed
Kerry	Ballylongford	Residence	Being prepared for disposal
Kerry	Brosna	Former Garda   Station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Kerry	Kilgarvan	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Kerry	Moyvane	Former Garda   Station	Under consideration for Community use.
Kilkenny	Casltecomer	Former Garda   Station	Intra State transfer to Kilkenny Co. Co.
Leitrim	Dromahair	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Leitrim	Drumkeeran	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Leitrim	Glenfarne	Former Garda   station	Alternative State use being examined.
Leitrim	Keshcarrigan	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Limerick	Annacotty	Building   (warehouse)	Being considered for disposal
Limerick	Castletown   Conyers	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Limerick	Cecil Street	Building	Intra State transfer to Limerick Co. Co.
Limerick	Galbally	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Limerick	Kilfinane	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Limerick	Mayorstone Park	Former Garda   Station	Being prepared for disposal
Limerick	Shanagolden	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Longford	Ardagh	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Longford	Ballinalee	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Louth	Drogheda  62/63 West Street	Building	Intra State Transfer to Louth Co. Co.
Louth	Dundalk	Former   Employment Exchange	Intra State Transfer to Louth Co. Co.
Mayo	Ballina	Former Garda   station	Intra State Transfer to Mayo Co. Co.
Mayo	Ballyglass	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Mayo	Blacksod	Former Garda   station	Under consideration by Community Group
Mayo	Hollymount	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Meath	Navan (Kells   Road)	Govt. buildings	Intra State transfer to Meath Co. Co.
Monaghan	Clontibret	Former Garda   station	Being prepared for disposal.
Monaghan	Clontibret	Residence	Being prepared for disposal.
Monaghan	Corrinshigagh	Former Garda   station	Alternative State use being examined.
Monaghan	Newbliss	Former Garda   station	Alternative State use being examined.
Monaghan	Smithborough	Former Garda   station	Alternative State use being examined.
Offaly	Birr	Former Met   Station	Being prepared for disposal.
Roscommon	Ballintubber	Former Garda Station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Roscommon	Ballyforan	Former Garda   Station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Roscommon	Knockcroghery	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Roscommon	Tarmonbarry	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Sligo	Ballymote	Former Garda   station	Being prepared for disposal.
Tipperary	Dromard House	Residence	Acquired for An Garda Síochána who are considering future use.
Waterford	Ardmore	Building	Being prepared for disposal.
Waterford	Ballyduff	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations
Waterford	Customs House   (Merchant’s Quay)	Building	Alternative State use being examined.
Wexford	Roche's Road	Former Garda   station	Being prepared for disposal.
Wicklow	Ashford	Former Garda   station	Being prepared for disposal
Wicklow	Hollywood	Former Garda   station	OPW disposal policy following reviews of closed Garda stations

Flood Prevention Measures

Questions (305)

Thomas Gould

Question:

305. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the flood attenuation lake in Blackpool, County Cork; and the precise location for same. [36882/20]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform

The Blackpool Flood Relief Scheme commenced in 2013 when the Office of Public Works, in conjunction with Cork City Council, appointed consultants to develop proposals to deal with the flood risk that existed in Cork City. The scheme was originally part of the Lower Lee Flood Relief Scheme.  As it became clear, however, that a solution could be advanced for Blackpool ahead of the Lower Lee, a separate scheme was developed for Blackpool. Following extensive engineering and environmental analysis, public consultation, and a formal Public Exhibition, the proposed scheme was submitted to the Department for Public Expenditure and Reform for Ministerial Confirmation.

The Scheme and the associated environmental assessments are currently being reviewed by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, as part of the Confirmation process under the Arterial Drainage Acts.  Further information was requested by the Minister as part of the environmental impact assessment he is required to carry out on the scheme.  This information was provided to the Minister on the 2nd November 2020 and it is anticipated, pending a review of the further information supplied, that a grant of Ministerial Confirmation for the scheme will be received in early 2021. Once the scheme is Confirmed, the detailed design will be completed and a tender competition held to appoint a works contractor.  It is currently anticipated that construction of the scheme will commence by mid 2021.

In terms of the ‘flood attenuation lake’ as referred to by the Deputy, which is understood to relate to the Blackpool Retail and Amenity Park, this has not been included as part of the proposed Blackpool Flood Relief Scheme. This is believed to relate to the granting of planning permission for the Blackpool Retail and Amenity Park, which is outside the remit of the Office of Public Works. The relevant planning authority should be contacted regarding any further information on same in that case.

Departmental Budgets

Questions (306)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

306. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the way in which his Department’s annual amount for contingent liability is set; the factors considered when setting contingent liability; if forecasting is undertaken regarding setting future amounts; the contingent liability figure for his Department for 2020; and if the contingent has been utilised to date in 2020. [36909/20]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

My Department’s contingent liabilities derive solely from costs pertaining to a small number of legal actions.  At present, in relation to providing for a contingent liability relating to legal costs, the Department consults with its legal representatives in determining the probability of a liability arising as well as the probable quantum of that liability should judgement and / or costs be awarded against my Department.  

At the end of 2019, the contingent liabilities in relation to my Department’s own Vote (Vote 11) related solely to my responsibilities under the Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014, by amending Section 3(A) of the European Convention on Human Rights Act 2003, that allows people who have been unlawfully detained as a result of judicial error to sue the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform for compensation.  In 2020, €24,000 was budgeted for this purpose and it has been utilised in the year to date.

At the end of 2019, there was one legal action against the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) and the legal process regarding costs is still ongoing.  As stated in the OGP’s 2019 Appropriation Account (Vote 39), costs were estimated at €1 million.

EU Funding

Questions (307)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

307. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the funds made available to Ireland by region, under the European Regional Development Fund, ERDF 2014-2020 Operational Programme; the projects the funds were spent on; the amount of ERDF funding involved for each project; the amount of national funding for each project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36985/20]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

The funding made available to Ireland, under the two ERDF Operational Programmes, in the period 2014 to 2020, is set out in the table below: 

ERDF Funding 2014 - 2020

Border Midland and Western Regional Operational   Programme	Allocation	ERDF 50%	Exchequer 50%
-	€321,417,842	€160,708,921	€160,708,921
Southern and Eastern Regional Operational   Programme	Allocation	ERDF 50%	Exchequer 50%
-	€500,132,354	€250,066,177	€250,066,177
Total	€821,550,196	€410,775,098	€410,775,098

With regard to the projects the funds were spent on, the information as provided from the Southern and Eastern Regional Operational Programme and the Border Midland and Western Regional Operational Programme is attached.  Please note the 50:50 split between ERDF funding and Exchequer funding applies in each case.

[<a href="https://data.oireachtas.ie/ie/oireachtas/debates/questions/supportingDocumentation/2020-11-17_pq-307-17-11-2020_en.xlsx">Doc<1/a>]

[<a href="https://data.oireachtas.ie/ie/oireachtas/debates/questions/supportingDocumentation/2020-11-17_pq307-17-11-2020_en.xlsx">Doc<2/a>]

Covid-19 Paindéim

Questions (308, 310, 311, 313, 314, 316)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

308. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which he remains satisfied that adequate measures have been taken in respect of public expenditure and reform to withstand the ongoing impact of Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37068/20]

Bernard Durkan

Question:

310. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which departmental expenditure at present has indicated potential pressure for remedial action as Ireland progresses towards 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37070/20]

Bernard Durkan

Question:

311. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which he and his Department have identified potential threats to remaining within budget throughout various Departments in the course of the coming year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37071/20]

Bernard Durkan

Question:

313. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which he has developed a mechanism in his Department to identify possible overruns in terms of expenditure in sufficient time to correct and address them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37073/20]

Bernard Durkan

Question:

314. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the degree to which he remains satisfied that adequate monitors exist in respect of current spending in Ireland as compared with other jurisdictions within the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37074/20]

Bernard Durkan

Question:

316. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if specific potential expenditure overruns have been identified by his Department if so, his plans to address matters arising; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37076/20]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

I propose to take Questions Nos. 308, 310, 311, 313, 314 and 316 together.

Managing the delivery of public services within allocations is a key responsibility of each Minister and Department. There are important measures in place at all times to ensure that our budgetary targets are being met. These measures continue to be in place for all public expenditure, including core expenditure as well as additional expenditure allocated as part of the response to Covid-19. As is usual, my Department is in regular contact with all other Departments and offices to ensure that all expenditure is being managed within the overall fiscal parameters. There is regular reporting to Government on expenditure levels.

In terms of other EU jurisdictions, in the five years prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, Irish General Government expenditure as a proportion of GNI* had moved to be broadly in line with the EU average figures for General Government expenditure as a percentage of GDP. In terms of capital expenditure, the overall public capital allocation set out in the 2020 Revised Estimates Volume was €8.2 billion. At this level, core gross voted capital investment in 2020 was projected to reach c. 4 percent of national income (GNI*) compared to an EU average in recent years of 2.9 percent (GDP). While these indicators have been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, they give an indication of Ireland’s position relative to other EU countries in terms of core expenditure.

As set out in the most recent Fiscal Monitor, published by the Department of Finance, total gross voted expenditure at end-October 2020 was €65,547 million. This is €8,604 million, or 15.1% ahead of profile. It should be noted however, that expenditure profiles for the year were published in February and are based on the expenditure allocations set out in the 2020 Revised Estimates Volume. This means that the impact of additional resources allocated in respect of Covid-19 are not reflected in these profiles. As such, spending can be expected to run significantly ahead of profile for the remainder of the year. Gross voted current expenditure of €60,000 million, is €8,662 million, or 16.9% above profile. Gross voted capital expenditure of €5,547 million, is €58 million, or 1% below profile and up €886 million, or 19% on October 2019.  

The vast majority of identified overruns in 2020 to date relate to expenditure allocated in response to Covid-19. Current expenditure in the Department of Health is ahead of profile by €1.36 billion at end October 2020. This is due to the drawdown of funds to the HSE, to support maximising capacity within the system and to allow for the purchase of necessary equipment such as PPE. The Department of Social Protection is ahead of profile by almost €6.9 billion at this point in the year. This is due to payments introduced in respect of Covid-19 to support employees and businesses. There is a Covid-19 related impact on the Department of Transport, for which current expenditure is €307 million ahead of profile at end October. This is due to the drop in passenger numbers and associated revenue as a result of public health measures.

Gross voted current expenditure in Education is ahead of profile by €83 million. This relates to higher than anticipated drawdown in relation to teacher salaries and pensions, as well as payment of €66 million in Covid-19 grants to primary and post-primary schools in August. In terms of core current spending, expenditure on Asylum Seekers Accommodation is over profile by approximately €74 million at end-October due to underlying financial pressures, linked to the numbers to be accommodated.  Expenditure has also been impacted by the Covid-19 emergency, with additional measures being implemented including the provision of self-isolation facilities.

Looking at capital expenditure, the impact of Covid-19 can also be seen. Of the 16 vote groups which have capital allocations, 12 are below profile for capital expenditure at this point in the year. Capital expenditure in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment is ahead of profile for end-October by €587 million. This relates to the additional funding which was allocated in light of the impact of Covid-19 on businesses. The Department of Education is ahead of profile on capital expenditure by €91 million. The main driver of this is the issuing of additional minor works grants in light of Covid-19, as well as bringing these grants forward to July and August for primary and post-primary schools. €10 million has also been provided for Student Devices.

The Government has allocated significant additional resources to Departments in response to Covid-19. Expenditure Report 2021 set out total gross voted expenditure of €87.1 billion for 2020, with additional expenditure of €16.7 billion primarily driven by Covid-19. These allocations are being made in the usual way, with Estimates agreed by Government and voted on by the Dáil. A number of Revised Estimates and Further Revised Estimates have been approved by the Dáil in recent weeks and months to give effect to these increased allocations for 2020. A number of Supplementary Estimates have also been presented to the Dáil in the last number of weeks and work is currently ongoing to agree the last number of Supplementary Estimates for 2020. 

Question No. 309 answered with Question No. 303.

Questions Nos. 310 and 311 answered with Question No. 308.

Departmental Strategies

Questions (312)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

312. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent of reforms he has in mind to streamline the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of all Departments and bodies under their aegis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37072/20]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that significant innovation and reforms in the Public Service have been brought about since the establishment of this Department. A core goal of this Department is to continue to deliver improved, cost-effective public services across a range of areas in the Public Service, including governance, accountability, procurement, shared services, organisational redesign and property management.

The current framework for public service reform and innovation, Our Public Service 2020 (OPS2020), builds on earlier reforms while expanding their scope in order to accelerate the digital delivery of public services, deliver better outcomes for citizens, drive innovation and develop our people and organisations.

Notable examples of initiatives that have being delivered include:

- Transforming and driving Digital Delivery of Services, such as, for example, An Garda Siochana’s Active Mobility Service; Passport on-line; Library Service’s My Open Library initiative; Revenue Commissioners PAYE Modernisation programme;

- The Civil Service Renewal Programme; 

- Innovation: A €1m Innovation Fund has been established to support Public Service innovation projects; the establishment of a central Innovation Support Team; creation of a Public-Service wide Innovation Network and a Public-Service wide Innovation Week (held most recently on 19-23 October 2020); and the publication of a National Innovation Strategy, launched just last week, which focuses on making our public services more efficient and effective for the citizen.

- Driving the take-up of Robotic Process Automation through the dedicated Procurement Framework, which enables swift and easy draw down of licences, supports and expertise to create efficiencies in back-office functions;

- A significant strategic workforce planning initiative commenced in selected public service organisations;

- An initiative to support greater diversity and inclusion in our Public Service;

- Creation of a Public Service Leadership Board (PSLB) - at Secretary General equivalent level- supported by the Public Service Management Group (PSMG) to oversee the governance of reform efforts.

Innovations and reforms are also underway outside of the OPS2020 framework in organisations across the civil and public services. For example, the  programme of reforms set out in the 2014 Civil Service Renewal Plan to support a higher performing organisation continues to be embedded within the Civil Service. A number of budgetary reforms have also been introduced in recent years to guide Minster’s decisions on overall fiscal policy, including fiscal rules, new spending code, expenditure ceilings and spending reviews.

My Department has now begun consultations on developing a successor framework to OPS2020 and similar work is well-advanced in framing a further renewal plan for the Civil Service and an examination of the organisational structure and design of our Civil Service to 2030.  The vision and strategy underpinning these reform priorities will focus on large-scale ambitious transformation to support greater cost-effectiveness through enhanced digital service delivery; developing our data infrastructure, and; building the workforce and workplace of the future following the extraordinary changes that are occurring as a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Questions Nos. 313 and 314 answered with Question No. 308.

Departmental Priorities

Questions (315)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

315. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the areas of public expenditure and reform which he has identified as being most in need of specific attention for the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37075/20]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

In line with the requirements of the Public Service Management Act, 1997, my Department is currently developing a new Statement of Strategy for presentation to me within six months of my appointment. This strategy will build on the successful track record of the Department by setting out its strategic direction for the period 2021-2023.  My priorities and relevant commitments in the Programme for Government will be reflected in the new Strategy. 

The overall role of my Department is to implement a strong and sustainable public expenditure framework and to drive the reform programme across the Civil and Public Service in order to support the delivery of public services as efficiently and effectively as possible.  My priorities are focused on these areas and include key issues such as:

Sustainable Public Expenditure

- To continue to manage public expenditure effectively while addressing challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic, Brexit and Climate Change;

- To produce multiannual Estimates and Expenditure Statements that meet Government objectives, EU commitments and support economic, social and climate-related progress on a fiscally sustainable basis, and to monitor voted expenditure outturns and trends during the year;

- To mainstream budgetary reforms to promote certainty and discipline regarding the level and broad composition of public expenditure over the medium term, to enhance the quality of performance information and to continually develop the evidence-based approach to expenditure policy formulation, including through the key role of the Irish Government Economic and Evaluation Service and through the promotion of the linkage between the allocation of resources and the proposed wellbeing framework;

- To manage public service pay and pension costs on a fiscally sustainable basis using agreed industrial relations frameworks and advance solutions to support the effective administration of the Single Pension Scheme;

- To oversee the review of the National Development Plan and alignment with the National Planning Framework as part of Project Ireland 2040;

- To address the challenges posed by Brexit, while maximising the opportunities presented by EU membership in a range of EU policy areas.  We will make the best use of EU funding, including the existing European Structural and Investment Funds and the new Recovery and Resilience Facility and Brexit Adjustment Reserve, and promote North-South cooperation, including through PEACE PLUS;

- Reform and Innovation

- To lead the implementation of Our Public Service 2020 to deliver better outcomes for the public, build effective public service organisations, and develop a culture of innovation as part of the reform programme, and to develop and lead Our Public Service 2030;

- To lead the development and implementation of a ten year Civil Service Renewal Vision and Strategy Statement and the first of three operational plans;

- To promote and support open, accountable and transparent government and public administration and good governance in the Public Service;

- To lead and support the development and implementation of a new Civil Service People Strategy, which reflects the workplace transformation that has taken place as a result of Covid-19 and challenges traditional ways of working to support business continuity and effectiveness into the future;

- To drive the implementation of the GovTech priority actions and the Public Service ICT, Data and eGovernment strategies, with particular focus on those initiatives that will improve delivery of public services, encourage take-up of digital services, encourage sharing and promote the use of data as a key enabler of better services; and

- To lead the Procurement Reform Programme, to enable effective, sustainable and compliant procurement across the Public Service.

- I would add that my Department has an important role in respect of service delivery to other public bodies and priorities in that regard include: 

- Service Delivery

- To deliver effective and efficient ICT services to relevant public bodies as part of the Build to Share programme and use the OGCIO Vote to support the sustainable development and delivery of these services;

- To ensure oversight, value for money and evidence based prioritisation of learning solutions by OneLearning, which has responsibility for all L&D that is common across the Civil Service;

- To implement projects to strengthen HR service delivery across the Civil Service, including the Human Capital Management Project, HR Operating Model and the CSHRD Centre of Expertise; and

- To continue to drive an integrated approach to public procurement through the Office of Government Procurement and to provide a range of procurement solutions for the Public Service, delivering value for money, compliance and risk reduction.

Question No. 316 answered with Question No. 308.

Public Sector Reform Review

Questions (317)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

317. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which he expects further reform to play a meaningful role in ensuring prudent expenditure and good value for money in the course of 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37077/20]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

I am pleased to inform the Deputy of significant reforms in the public sector that Government has brought about since the establishment of this Department. A core goal of this Department is to continue to deliver improved, cost-effective public services across a range of themes such as governance, accountability, procurement, shared services, organisational reform and property management.

The current framework for public service reform and innovation, Our Public Service 2020 (OPS2020), builds on earlier reforms while expanding their scope in order to accelerate the digital delivery of public services, deliver better outcomes for citizens, drive innovation and develop our people and organisations.

Notable examples of reform initiatives that have being delivered include:

- Transforming and driving Digital Delivery of Services, such as, for example, An Garda Siochana’s Active Mobility Service; Passport on-line; Library Service’s My Open Library initiative; Revenue Commissioners PAYE Modernisation programme; and the Gov.ie service platform.

- Driving the take-up of Robotic Process Automation through the dedicated Procurement Framework, which enables swift and easy draw down of licenses, supports and expertise to create efficiencies in back-office functions;

- Innovation: A €1m Innovation Fund has been established to support Public Service innovation projects; the establishment of a central Innovation Support Team; creation of a Public-Service wide Innovation Network and a Public-Service wide Innovation Week (held most recently on 19-23 October 2020); and the publication of a National Innovation Strategy, launched just last week, which focuses on making our public services more efficient and effective for the citizen.

- A significant strategic workforce planning initiative commenced in selected public service organisations;

- An initiative to support greater diversity and inclusion in our Public Service;

- Creation of a Public Service Leadership Board (PSLB) - at Secretary General equivalent level- supported by the Public Service Management Group (PSMG) to oversee the governance of reform efforts.

Reforms are also underway outside of the OPS2020 framework in organisations across the civil and public services. For example, the  programme of reforms set out in the 2014 Civil Service Renewal Plan to support a higher performing organisation continues to be embedded within the Civil Service. A number of budgetary reforms have also been introduced in recent years to guide minster’s decisions on overall fiscal policy, including fiscal rules, expenditure ceilings and spending reviews.

My Department has now begun consultations on developing a successor framework to OPS2020 and similar work is well-advanced in framing a further renewal plan for the Civil Service to 2030.  The vision and strategy underpinning this will focus on large-scale ambitious transformation to support greater cost-effectiveness through enhanced digital service delivery; developing our data infrastructure, and; building the workforce and workplace of the future following the extraordinary changes that are occurring as a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Public Expenditure Policy

Questions (318)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

318. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which he has identified a reliable basis for wage agreements in both the public and private sectors in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37078/20]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

The present system of collective agreements has been in place in the public service since the Croke Park Agreement was negotiated in 2010.  

These collective agreements have helped to ensure that public pay is managed in a sustainable, affordable and orderly manner.  These agreements have also enabled significant reform of public services and changes to work practices.

The current public service agreement the Public Service Stability Agreement (PSSA) 2018-2020 has provided for benefits to different income groups ranging from 6.2% to 7.4% over three years, and up to 10% for new entrant members of the Single Public Service Pension Scheme.  At the end of the agreement, FEMPI pay reductions were reversed for all public servants earning up to €70,000, which equates to almost 90% of public servants.

In addition, an agreement under the framework of the PSSA was reached with ICTU in 2018 to deal with the issue of new entrant pay.  

The final pay adjustment of the current agreement was implemented as planned on 1 October last with pay for public servants increased by 2%.  Also on 1 October, fixed allowances were increased by between 5% and 8% in accordance as part of the unwinding of pay reductions set out under the Public Service Pay and Pensions Act 2017. 

Government was determined to ensure the current agreement was honoured in full, not least in recognition of the contribution that public servants have made in supporting the country through this unprecedented COVID pandemic.

As the Deputy is aware, I have instructed my officials to engage in exploratory talks with the Public Services Committee of ICTU to establish if there is a basis for a successor agreement to the Public Service Stability Agreement that would ensure pay stability, industrial peace and the delivery of quality public services.

These exploratory discussions are ongoing. As the Deputy will appreciate, it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the detail of those talks which should remain confidential to the parties.

These are difficult discussions taking place against a very difficult backdrop.  A new agreement must reflect the broader economic context and the current fiscal position where significant challenges are emerging.

However, I am on record as saying that a new collective agreement could play an important role in underpinning economic recovery, avoiding industrial unrest and supporting the delivery of quality public services at a critical time for our country.  

My department has no responsibility for wage agreements in the private sector.

Public Sector Staff

Questions (319)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

319. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which his Department can facilitate recruitment throughout the public sector with particular reference to essential services such as the health services and others impacted by Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37079/20]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

As the Deputy will be aware, as part of its national response to the global pandemic, Government continues to make significant additional financial resources available to support front-line public services.  In my recent Budget speech, the Minister for Finance and I announced budgetary measures that will support up to 16,000 additional posts in our health services, up to 990 additional SNAs and 403 additional teaching posts for our schools, as well as the recruitment of some 600 new Garda recruits and 500 civilian staff to facilitate the continued redeployment of trained Gardaí to front-line policing.

In my role as Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, I have overarching responsibility for workforce planning in, and recruitment to, the Civil Service.  The Public Appointments Service (PAS), which is a statutory body under my Department’s aegis, is the principal recruiter for the civil service.

In the context of the wider public service, PAS assists with the sourcing of candidates for Local Authorities, leadership positions and Hospital Consultant roles within the HSE, trainees for An Garda Síochána, and a range more specialist technical and professional roles across the public sector.  I understand that the PAS has and will continue to actively supporting the HSE Health Business Services Directorate.

The Client Relations Management structures within PAS ensure that there is continuous engagement in relation to the resourcing needs of its public service clients.  Adopting a demand-led approach to recruitment, vacancies are filled as and when required by employing Departments or Agencies subject to compliance with overall pay and numbers allocation.

PAS recognises the critical role it plays in supporting the Government response to Covid-19 and successfully transferred its service to a digital delivery model.  This has ensured continuity in recruitment and PAS have been proactive in responding to the needs of clients and candidates throughout the pandemic.