Written Answers Nos. 94-121
94. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he has engaged with National Broadband Ireland on any aspect of broadband provision in the past six months; and the outcome of any engagement. [12118/21]
View answerThe National Broadband Plan (NBP) contract is a detailed document that provides for the design, build and operation of a national high speed broadband network by NBI and includes detailed provisions that are designed to protect the interests of the State and citizens. My Department as the contracting authority manages all of the elements of contract governance and engages with NBI on an ongoing basis across all elements of the programme to delver the new high speed broadband network. I receive regular briefings from my officials on delivery of the NBP and I met with National Broadband Ireland on 11 January where they presented on progress in delivering the NBP programme.
95. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will have issues raised by a local authority given urgent consideration in view of the widespread concerns in local communities in relation to the proposed north-south interconnector (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12158/21]
View answerEirGrid as a commercial state company is accountable to the independent energy regulator, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities, under the price review process for all expenditure, including advertising, that it incurs in the discharge of its responsiblities. The North-South Interconnector is critical to improving the efficient operation of the all-island single electricity market and increasing security of electricity supply in Ireland and Northern Ireland. It will also help Ireland to move towards 70% renewable electricity, a commitment made in the programme for Government. A resilient and well-connected energy infrastructure is vital for Ireland’s economic well-being and the ability to respond to the future needs of energy consumers.
The 2012 Government Policy Statement on the Strategic Importance of Transmission and Other Energy Infrastructure states: ‘The Government does not seek to direct EirGrid and ESB Networks or other energy infrastructure developers to particular sites or routes or technologies’.
The option of undergrounding the North-South Interconnector has been comprehensively assessed on several occasions. Most recently, and fully in line with the resolution of Dáil Éireann of 16 February 2017, my Department commissioned an independent report incorporating international industry expertise to examine the technical feasibility and cost of undergrounding the north-south interconnector. The report from the International Expert Commission was published in October 2018 and it found that an overhead line remains the most appropriate option for this piece of critical electricity infrastructure. I do not intend ordering a further such review.
The Government takes the commitment to community engagement seriously. EirGrid and ESB Networks seek to work in close collaboration with landowners and stakeholders in the delivery of electricity infrastructure. Both companies are engaging with those living closest to the route of the interconnector. In that regard I note that EirGrid has already set in place a variety of engagements locally, including the appointment of community liaison officers and a mobile information unit active in the area. I expect such engagements to intensify in the coming weeks and months, subject of course to national public health guidelines on Covid-19.
96. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport the date for the publication of the policy statement of his Department on the biofuel obligation scheme. [10975/21]
View answerThe Biofuels Obligation Scheme is the principal policy measure used to support the uptake of biofuels and other forms of bioenergy in the transport sector. The scheme, which was introduced in 2010, requires fuel suppliers in the road transport sector to ensure a certain proportion of all fuel supplied is from renewable sources.
In September 2019, a public consultation was launched on the path for the Biofuels Obligation Scheme over the period of 2021 to 2030. The consultation, which closed in November 2019, has been helping to inform the development of an updated policy statement which will set out the planned approach to the use of biofuels and other renewable transport fuels for the coming years. I can inform the Deputy that the policy statement is very advanced, and I expect that it will be finalised and published in the coming weeks.
97. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Transport the cross-Border greenway projects being considered as part of the Shared Island Fund. [11807/21]
View answerIn Budget 2021, the Government announced the Shared Island Fund, with €500 million to be made available out to 2025, ring-fenced for Shared Island projects. The Shared Island Fund provides significant new, multiannual capital funding for investment on a strategic basis in collaborative North-South projects that will support the commitments and objectives of the Good Friday Agreement.
The Government’s priorities for such investment are set out in the Programme for Government and include:
- Working with the Executive to deliver key cross-border infrastructure initiatives, including the A5, the Ulster Canal, the Narrow Water Bridge, and cross-border Greenways, including the Sligo-Enniskillen greenway.
A number of Greenways in the border region have been progressing with support from my Department under the Carbon Tax Fund since July 2020. The projects listed below may be able to avail of funding from the Shared Island Fund when it is opened for applications.
Carbon Tax Fund 2020
|
Name of Project |
Amount awarded |
Managing/ Lead Managing Local Authority |
Brief Description |
|
Cavan Railway Greenway |
€175,000 |
Cavan County Council |
Options selection for the 26 km section from Ulster Canal Greenway, north of Castle Saunderson and with a link to the Cavan - Leitrim Greenway at Belturbet. |
|
Inishowen Greenway |
€45,000 |
Donegal County Council |
Route options selection on an 8 km section from Muff to Quigley’s Point. |
|
Inishowen Greenway |
€180,000 |
Donegal County Council |
Route options selection on a 32 km section from Buncrana to Cardonagh. |
|
Foyle Valley Greenway |
€115, 000 |
Donegal County Council |
Route options for a 28 km section of the Foyle Valley Greenway from Carrigans to Castlefinn. |
|
Sligo Leitrim Northern Counties Railway (SLNCR) Greenway |
€500,000 |
Leitrim County Council |
To bring a 75 km section from Sligo Town to Enniskillen through the statutory process. |
|
Carlingford Greenway |
€200,000 |
Louth County Council |
Preliminary Design and Environmental Evaluation for a 12 km section from the Tourist Office in Carlingford to Templetown Beach. |
|
Ulster Canal Greenway |
€100,000 |
Monaghan County Council |
Preliminary Design and Environmental Evaluation for a 14 km section from Smithborough to Clones. |
|
Total |
€1,315,000 |
In December, the Government approved over €6m in funding from the Shared Island Fund to launch the delivery of Phase 2 of the Ulster Canal and we are continuing to work in partnership with the Executive and through the North South Ministerial Council on the other cross-border investment projects, which are part of our Shared Island commitments in the Programme for Government. Progressing these projects was a key focus of our discussions at the North South Ministerial Council Plenary on Friday, 18 December.
I look forward to seeing these important cross-border Greenways progress over the coming years.
98. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide usage statistics for all publicly available electric vehicle chargers; his plans to provide more chargers in response to increased demand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11893/21]
View answerThe Government’s policy regarding the usage of Electric Vehicles (EVs) is primarily driven by the Climate Action Plan which sets a target of 936,000 EVs by 2030.
To support these EVs, a network of 690 publicly accessible charge points is already available including circa 100 fast chargers, which are mainly found on national routes. The majority of these chargers have been rolled out by the ESB through its eCars programme, with some public chargers being provided by local authorities, retail outlets and private companies.
The Climate Action Fund (CAF) has also allocated up to €10 million to a project from ESB eCars that will further enhance its current network and complete a nationwide EV charging network capable of facilitating large-scale electric vehicle uptake over the next decade. In addition to the CAF project, the Government is also providing support for home charging and on-street charging.
Home charging is considered the primary method of charging for the majority of EVs in Ireland and is a convenient, cost effective and environmentally-friendly means of charging, especially when using night-rate electricity. It accounts for circa 80% of EV charging sessions and will continue to be the primary method of charging in the future. The EV Home Charger Grant Scheme has been in operation since January 2018 to support the installation of home chargers for purchasers of new and second-hand BEVs and PHEVs. The grant provides generous support towards the full cost of installation of a home charger, up to a maximum of €600.
Currently, work is being progressed to expand the EV Home Charger Grant to include shared parking (e.g. in apartment blocks). There are a number of complex planning issues to address before it will be possible to expand this grant and the Department and the SEAI are working to address the issues involved.
Since September 2019, the Public Charge Point Scheme has been in place to provide funding to local authorities for the development of on-street public chargers. The primary focus of this scheme is to provide support for the installation of infrastructure which will facilitate those owners of EVs who do not have access to a private parking space but rely on parking their vehicles on public streets to charge their EVs near their homes. Infrastructure installed could also provide the opportunity for people visiting the area to park and charge their EVs.
In addition, the Department is also making €2 million available this year through the SEAI to support the installation of destination charge points in locations such as hotels and shopping centres. This new initiative will help provide another critical link in the overall network for public charging.
Finally, the Deputy will be aware that the Programme for Government published in June last year, commits to publishing an electric vehicles infrastructure strategy. Once completed, the strategy will provide a key framework for ensuring we continue to have sufficient infrastructure in place to keep ahead of demand, while also ensuring that appropriate planning and development guidelines are followed in providing the necessary capacity. It is envisaged that the strategy will be published this year.
The Department does not keep information on usage statistics for publically available EV charge points. In this regard, I have forwarded your question to the ESB for direct response. Please contact my Office if no reply is received within 10 working days.
99. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 46 of 25 November 2020, 158 of 8 December 2020 and 145 of 3 February 2021, if his officials have now conducted a thorough consideration of the comprehensive and substantial submissions; when he received these submissions; the number of staff and former staff involved; if he has sought a response from the Irish Aviation Authority; the process and timetable for the examination of the submission; when he will be in a position to make a response to these submissions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11961/21]
View answerAs the appeal process the Deputy refers to remains ongoing, I am limited in the information which I can disclose as this stage.
I can confirm that I received two submissions on behalf of staff of the Irish Aviation Authority. My officials have considered both submissions, and they are now with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, in accordance with the statutory process. My officials are engaging with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform as part of that process to further clarify some elements of the appeals.
100. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport if guidance for driving instructors and a timeframe for return to driver lessons will be included in the new living with Covid framework; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10959/21]
View answerAnnouncements made by An Taoiseach on 23 February confirmed that level 5 restrictions are set to continue until 5 of April, at which point the situation will be reviewed.
As before, Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) may continue to provide lessons under these restrictions, but only in such circumstances where the learner in question has already been scheduled a test date.
101. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the provision of motor taxation payment services in post offices here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10970/21]
View answerUnder existing arrangements, motor tax is payable in person or by post through motor tax offices in twenty six local authorities. It has also been payable online since 2004, with the level of online usage increasing year on year to just under 79% of all motor tax applications in 2019, and increasing further in 2020 to just under 85%, partly as a result of Covid restrictions.
An Interdepartmental Group was established in October 2018 to consider options around the provision of ‘offline’ Government services, including motor tax. The group found that, rather than offline consumers experiencing an increasingly inconsistent approach to service provision, consideration should be given, in the context of the new National Digital Strategy and Our Public Service 2020, to the adoption of a whole of Government approach to offline service provision, similar to the adoption of Digital Government. It was concluded that such an initiative should be driven centrally. A whole of Government perspective allows the development of a set of principles outlining quality customer service for offline consumers, which could include bundling service delivery using existing nationwide customer facing networks. Such an approach would provide a consistent and high quality experience to offline consumers and provide locations to help offline customers transition to digital Government. The future provision of motor tax services will be considered within that framework.
102. Deputy Malcolm Noonan asked the Minister for Transport if there are any plans in place to upgrade the Waterford to Dublin line by providing a second track on the section where currently only one track exists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11013/21]
View answer107. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has examined the possibility of reinstating the rail connection between Rosslare and the Waterford to Limerick line; and his views on whether developing this line to carry rail freight would reduce traffic pressure along the N24 and improve the connectivity of the region. [11077/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 102 and 107 together.
As the Deputies may be aware my Department is preparing terms of reference for a Strategic Rail Review. This Review will consider all relevant issues in relation to inter-urban rail, inter/intra-regional rail and rail connectivity to our international gateways, with the latter considering the role of rail freight. The rail lines referred to by the Deputies will be considered as part of this review of the network.
This Review will be conducted on an all-island basis and as such, will allow for a fuller consideration of the potential role of rail, and the network that would be required to support that potential.
I am informed that the intention is to launch the tender process for the review by end Q1. This will be one of the most significant reviews of the rail network on the island in many years and will provide a framework to develop a much-improved rail network in the years ahead.
103. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 129 of 17 February 2021, if updated information will be provided as the information provided appears out of date (details supplied). [11029/21]
View answerThe improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of the relevant local authority in accordance with the provisions of section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from council's own resources supplemented by State road grants, where applicable. In this context the consideration of transport options for access to Cobh and Great Island and the proposed appointment of consultants, is a matter for Cork County Council.
As regards the classification of the R624, the position remains that no decision has been taken to reclassify the route as a national road and that further consideration may be given to the issue as part of a future general review of road classifications.
An application for grant funding was submitted by the Council under the Bridge Rehabilitation Grant Programme for works on the Belvelly Bridge and €35,301 has been allocated for this in this year's grants.
104. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the details of funding that has been allocated to Kildare County Council over the past ten years from either his Department or the National Transport Authority for traffic management plans for Newbridge; the amount of this funding that was drawn down and spent by the local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11046/21]
View answerThe improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of the relevant local authority in accordance with the provisions of section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from Council's own resources supplemented by State road grants.
As regards funding that has been allocated to Kildare County Council over the past ten years, details of the regional and local road grant allocations and payments to local authorities are outlined in the regional and local road allocations and payments booklets which are available in the Oireachtas Library. The tables included in the allocations and payments booklets outline expenditure by type of grant programme. Allocations to individual municipal districts is a matter for decision by the council and as such, I would suggest that contact is made with Kildare County Council directly in order to confirm the funding that has been allocated for traffic management plans for Newbridge.
In addition to the grant programme available to local authorities, my Department has issued documents such as the Design Manual for Urban Roads and Streets (DMURS) and the Traffic Management Guidelines (TMG) which provide for improved design to support traffic calming and safer interaction between different types of road users.
Under the Sustainable Transport Measures Grants (STMG) programme, my Department provides funding to the National Transport Authority (NTA) for the implementation of sustainable transport projects, including traffic management projects in the Greater Dublin Area. As the NTA is responsible for the management of the funding allocations to each local authority, I have referred your question to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
105. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport the steps being taken to address the waiting lists for driver tests; if additional resources can be put in place to reduce the backlog of appointments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11058/21]
View answerThe driving test service is not currently operating as normal due to the impact of Covid-19. Tests are only available, under Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions, to essential workers. This has had a significant impact on waiting times.
RSA driver testers are undertaking driving tests in extraordinarily difficult conditions in the current Covid19 environment. The driving test is conducted in an enclosed space for a period of over 15 minutes, where physical distancing is not possible.
Given the significant risk to testers when conducting a driving test, Government has deemed that the driver testing service should be available only for essential workers in Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions. The Road Safety Authority offers driving tests to those who can produce evidence that they are an essential worker, in accordance with Government definitions. No exceptions can be made.
My Department is liaising with the RSA on an ongoing basis to help the service meet the growing demand for tests within the current public health situation. An additional 40 driver testers have been authorised by the Minister along with 36 approved for retention or rehire in 2020. Recruitment has commenced and a panel will be formed. However, hiring of testers requires advertising, selecting candidates and training. Newly hired testers require 7 weeks of training in order to be ready. Training is given by experienced testers, so while new hires are in training the capacity of the service is reduced.
The RSA are also looking at a number of other measures, including whether the number of tests a driver tester can perform each day can be increased. Any decision on this matter will be guided by health protocols.
Until Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions have been eased, no progress can be made on addressing the backlog; however, the Road Safety Authority has plans in place for when the service is allowed to resume for all learner permit holders to be tested at the earliest possible date, and a gradual return of driving test times to their pre-Covid levels.
106. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has undertaken feasibility studies in regard to increasing the use of rail freight in Ireland. [11076/21]
View answer108. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Transport the estimated number of trucks which could be removed from the N24 on a daily, weekly, monthly and annual basis if a reasonable rail freight service was available; and the estimated reduction this would have on Ireland’s carbon emissions. [11078/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 106 and 108 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, I have a strong interest in this area and I see potential for the development of rail freight in Ireland. Our programme for Government commits us to a 7% average annual emissions reduction, and the potential shift of some freight traffic from road to rail could make a contribution to achieving this.
I met with the Chairman and Chief Executive of Irish Rail in December and we discussed a number of issues, including the company's plans for the development of rail freight. Irish Rail is preparing a rail freight strategy with the support of outside consultants to guide actions to 2040.
As the Deputy may be aware, in consultation with the Department for Infrastructure (Northern Ireland) and other relevant stakeholders, my Department is currently developing terms of reference for a strategic rail review of the network on the island of Ireland. The ambition remains to have this initial phase of work completed to allow for the launch of the tender process by end Q1. This review will consider all issues in relation to inter-urban and inter-regional rail connectivity, including the potential for high/higher speed(s), rail freight and, in that regard, improved connectivity to our ports and airports.
Finally, the Deputy's query also touches on average traffic numbers on the N24 road. As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and securing Exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015, the operation and management of individual roads are matters for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. In this context, I have referred the Deputy's question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my Private Office if a reply is not received within ten working days.
109. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the possibility to move driver theory tests online to alleviate the current backlog in testing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11084/21]
View answer114. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport the plans he is putting in place to allow driver test applicants to take their theory test; the way in which he plans to deal with the backlog; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11127/21]
View answer115. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport his plans to reduce the waiting times for driver theory tests in counties Carlow and Kilkenny; if his attention has been drawn to repeated cancellations of tests causing a large backlog: if consideration will be given to making driver theory tests an essential service as a result of such backlogs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11157/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 109, 114 and 115 together.
When the Driver Theory Test (DTT) Service closed in late 2020 due to the latest restrictions, the backlog arising from the first suspension (March to June 2020) had not yet been cleared. This, coupled with the need to significantly reduce normal daily capacity to comply with occupational and public health requirements, led to further delays for those wishing to take the DTT.
The DTT was not deemed to be an essential service under Level 5 restrictions, and the service has been closed since late December 2020. The service will remain closed while level 5 restrictions remain in place. While I fully appreciate the inconvenience this poses, I am sure you will agree with me that the limiting of the spread of the virus and the safeguarding of public health takes priority.
The RSA, together with its service provider, have put plans in place to significantly increase capacity within the service when it is allowed to re-open. To cope with the initial four-month suspension, the service increased capacity from an average pre Covid19 capacity of 15,000 to over 25,000 monthly. A plan is being progressed to increase this capacity up to 50,000 per month when service resumes, to manage the backlog of customers and shorten waiting times.
In addition to the increased capacity initiative, and at the request of the Department, the RSA is also working on a plan to rollout an online driver theory test service, Pro Proctor. Pro Proctor has been trialled on a pilot basis for those taking a theory test for trucks and buses during the months of December and January. The pilot is now being evaluated and the RSA is committed to extending the service for all theory test customers during 2021. There will be a limit on the number of customers that can avail of the service during the initial rollout phase but the objective is that it should be an option for all theory test customers during later phases of the rollout, in line with enhancing access to public services. However, scaling up operations to facilitate higher numbers will take time to achieve.
It is important to recognise that there are no quick fixes and that the continuing build-up of applications as the pandemic goes on means that it will take time to return to a normal waiting time. It is also important to emphasise that the review of Level 5 restrictions will impact on how quickly the backlog plan can be delivered.
110. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which concerns raised by an organisation (details supplied) can be addressed in the short term; when a decision is likely to issue regarding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11085/21]
View answerI would remind the Deputy that under the Regulation 3(b)(xi) of the Road Safety Authority Act (Conferral of Functions) Order (S.I. No. 477 of 2006), the decision to issue an extension to end-of-series derogations is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA).
Noting the exceptional continuing impact of Covid-19 to the economy, I understand that the RSA has decided, as of 22 February 2021, to make available a 12 month extension for end-of-series commercial vehicles with derogations that are due to expire in February 2021 (vehicle category M2, M3 and N), subject to specified conditions. This will permit the registration of applicable vehicles until early 2022.
I am advised that the Vehicle Standards and Enforcement Directorate of the Road Safety Authority are currently assisting the commercial vehicle industry by responding to related queries and undertaking assessments on applications for this extension provision.
111. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport the reason a verified MyGovID is needed to renew a driver licence online; the legislative basis for this requirement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11096/21]
View answerTo renew a driving licence, a person is required to present photographic ID, evidence of PPSN, evidence of address and evidence of residency entitlement. An applicant must present in person at a National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) office where the required documentation can be examined and a face to face verification can be made.
When applying online, the same information is required and the challenge of verifying a person’s identity is more difficult than when someone presents in person at an NDLS office. A verified MyGovID account, which requires a Public Service Card (PSC), satisfies this requirement. Anyone who does not have a MyGovID account and PSC is not, therefore, in a position to avail of the online service.
A Public Service Card (PSC) is issued by the Department of Social Protection as part of its legal functions for the authentication of identity. A PSC can be used, under legislation, by a number of public bodies including the Road Safety Authority (who provides the National Driver Licence Service). The Department of Social Protection subsequently developed the online identity verification portal known as MyGovID, to enable people who have authenticated their identity and have been issued with a PSC, to verify their identity securely online. This is the tool that the State has provided to allow individuals to verify their identity in order to access services online in a secure and safe manner.
The PSC is a way to streamline the identification process across all public services, making application for all services easier for everyone, and taking away unnecessary burdens from the citizen and the State. The intention is that people will need to go through the cumbersome process of providing documents to prove their identity only once - for the PSC - and then be able to use that card as an ID for a wide range of public services. More particularly, if people are to have confidence in using public services online, they need to have an verified and authenticated online identity and MyGovID, building on the Public Services Card, gives people that confidence and the means to access services online.
112. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that grants for electric vehicles are being used to help purchase high-end luxury vehicles valued in excess of €100,000; his views on whether this is an appropriate use of taxpayers’ money; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11097/21]
View answerMy Department provides support through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) towards the purchase of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
In order to qualify for the relevant supports under the SEAI scheme, the electric vehicle must be classified as M1 (private passenger vehicle) or N1 (light commercial vehicle). The scheme currently provides up to €5,000 in grant support for the private purchase of a new electric car (M1) and up to €3,800 for the purchase of a new electric van (N1) by a company or where a motor dealership is purchasing a demonstration vehicle. My Department is making an allocation of €27 million in 2021 for grants under this scheme.
In order to achieve the interim target of 180,000 EVs on the road by 2025, it will be necessary for consumers in every segment of the market including high-end vehicles to make the switch to electric vehicles. Having said that, my officials are currently undertaking a review of the terms of the scheme in order to ensure that the underlying policies are as targeted and effective as possible.
113. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the breakdown of monies allocated to each local authority under the regional and local roads fund in tabular form. [11100/21]
View answerThe improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of the relevant local authority in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from Council's own resources supplemented by State road grants.
Details of the regional and local road grant allocations and payments to local authorities are outlined in the regional and local road allocations and payments booklets which are available in the Oireachtas Library. The tables included in the allocations and payments booklets outline expenditure by type of grant programme.
I announced the 2021 Regional and Local Road allocations on the 15th February and details of the allocations for each local authority will be available in the 2021 allocations booklet which will be lodged in the Oireachtas Library shortly.
116. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport if a commitment will be given to keep Cork Airport open and to support its success upon the eventual return to international travel. [11163/21]
View answer117. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport the supports in place and those planned for Cork Airport. [11164/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 116 and 117 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, from early in the Covid crisis, the Government put in place a broad range of unprecedented supports to help mitigate the effects of the pandemic on business, including a wage subsidy scheme, grants, low-cost loans, a commercial rates waiver and deferred tax liabilities. To date, the value of these supports to the Irish aviation industry is estimated to be over €200 million with many extended into 2021. I understand that Cork Airport is availing of these general business supports.
In addition, in recognition of the very difficult circumstances being faced by airports and taking account of the recommendations of the Taskforce for Aviation Recovery, the Government announced an €80 million funding package specifically for Irish aviation in November 2020, which includes funding for State airports in 2021.
As part of that package, €32.1 million has been allocated to Cork and Shannon Airports in 2021 under a new Programme for Regional State Airports. Capital funding requests under this Programme are currently being assessed by my Department. These include a significant proposal for a runway reconstruction project at Cork Airport. This project is vital for the future of the airport and management of Cork Airport aim to to complete the project as quickly and efficiently as possible this year, using the optimum technical solution, at the lowest cost.
My Department has also developed supplementary support schemes to help address liquidity issues at our airports as a result of Covid-19. These new schemes for which a budget of €26 million has been allocated in 2021, were approved by the European Commission on 24 February.
One of these schemes will help to compensate State airports, including Cork, for damage caused by Covid-19 in 2020. This funding will provide airports with the flexibility to roll out route incentives/charge rebates, in consultation with airlines, with a view to supporting recovery and growth of connectivity when circumstances allow. Cork Airport will shortly be invited to apply for funding under this new Scheme.
In light of the above, and the support being provided, I am confident that Cork Airport will be in a position to build on its former success when it is safe for international travel to resume in earnest.
118. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Transport the number of admissions to Bunratty Folk Park in each of the years 2015 to 2019 by adult, seniors, children and members admission; the number from the USA, UK or Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11169/21]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware the operation of Bunratty Folk Park is the responsibility of Shannon Heritage which is managed by Shannon Group. Shannon Group is a commercial semi State Body with statutory responsilites for the management of its subsidiaries, including Shannon Heritage.
Accordingly, the details sought by the Deputy are operational matters for the Company. I have therefore forwarded your request to the Shannon Group for a direct response. If a response is not received within 10 days, please contact my private office.
119. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Transport his plans to permit learner drivers who have already commenced the 12 lessons as part of the essential driver training course to complete this course under current restrictions given that some of those waiting to complete their lessons are essential front-line workers and they cannot sit their test until all 12 lessons are complete and only those who have a test date can book driving lessons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11234/21]
View answerAnnouncements made by An Taoiseach on 23 February confirmed that level 5 restrictions are set to continue until 5 April, at which point the situation will be reviewed.
As before, Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) may continue to provide lessons under these restrictions, but only in such circumstances where the learner in question has already been scheduled a test date.
While I very much regret the difficulty this poses to learners who had previously commenced, but not yet completed, the 12 mandatory lessons required to book a test, I must remind the Deputy that this decision has been taken in line with official public health recommendations that everyone in Ireland work to limit the spread of the virus by staying at home in so far as is possible.
120. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Transport when a person (details supplied) will take their driver theory test given that it is essential for their continued employment and that previous scheduled tests have been cancelled three times putting their employment in jeopardy. [11237/21]
View answerThe scheduling of candidates’ driving theory tests is the responsibility of the Road Safety Authority and I have no information on individual cases.
The Driver Theory Test was not deemed to be an essential service under Level 5 restrictions, and the service has been closed since late December 2020. The service will remain closed while level 5 restrictions remain in place. While I fully appreciate the inconvenience this poses, I am sure you will agree with me that the limiting of the spread of the virus and the safeguarding of public health takes priority. We want to provide services, and we know that people are looking for services, but services can only be provided to the limit possible while preserving public health.
The RSA, together with its service provider, have put plans in place to significantly increase capacity within the service when it is allowed to re-open. To cope with the initial four-month suspension in 2020, the service increased capacity from an average pre Covid19 capacity of 15,000 to over 25,000 monthly. A plan is being progressed to increase this capacity up to 50,000 per month when service resumes, to manage the backlog of customers and shorten waiting times .
121. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Transport the number of cancelled driver theory tests since the introduction of Covid-19 restrictions by centre in tabular form. [11238/21]
View answerThe details requested are held by the Road Safety Authority. I have therefore referred this question to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
