Written Answers Nos. 1278-1302
1278. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice the number of active Zambrano-related applications currently awaiting a decision; the number of decisions that have issued in each of the past 12 months; the date applications currently under final consideration are from; her plans to tackle the backlog; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15594/21]
View answerThe question relates to decisions under a scheme whereby a non-EEA national who is the biological parent of a minor dependent Irish Citizen Child living in Ireland, can be granted residency rights in Ireland.
There are currently 880 active applications. In the interests of fairness to all applicants, the applications are processed in strict chronological order by the Immigration Service of my Department. Due to the complexity of the individual cases and the need for further documentation to be submitted, the processing time for the individual applications will vary.
The table below details the 403 decisions issued for the period March 2020 to March 2021 (to date):
|
Month |
Irish Citizen Child Decision |
Irish Born Child Renewal |
Total |
|
March 2020 |
64 |
3 |
67 |
|
April 2020 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
|
May 2020 |
6 |
0 |
6 |
|
June 2020 |
8 |
0 |
8 |
|
July 2020 |
27 |
1 |
27 |
|
August 2020 |
15 |
1 |
16 |
|
September 2020 |
48 |
2 |
50 |
|
October 2020 |
35 |
2 |
37 |
|
November 2020 |
35 |
1 |
36 |
|
December 2020 |
39 |
1 |
40 |
|
January 2021 |
32 |
3 |
35 |
|
February 2021 |
36 |
0 |
36 |
|
March 2021 |
42 |
0 |
42 |
The COVID–19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the way the Immigration Service of my Department conducts its business. In line with advice issued by the Government, HSE and the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), the Immigration Service has implemented a suite of measures to help reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
These measures include the closure of our offices in Burgh Quay and the implementation of remote working for Immigration Services staff in order to comply with social and physical distancing measures. While delays may occur, the Immigration Service is endeavouring to keep operating as efficiently as possible notwithstanding the current challenges.
1279. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Justice when she plans to issue stamp 6 visa holders with a residence card; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15690/21]
View answerI can inform the Deputy that a Stamp 6 is placed in the Non EEA passport of a person who is an Irish citizen with dual-citizenship.
As the holder of this permission is an Irish national, they do not fall under the registration requirement outlined in the Immigration Act 2004, and therefore are not issued with an Irish residence card.
1280. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the status of an application for citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied); if she will use her discretion in the case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15715/21]
View answerAn application for a certificate of naturalisation was received from the person referred to by the Deputy on 15 February 2021. This application is currently being processed with a view to establishing whether the applicant meets the statutory conditions for the granting of naturalisation and will be submitted to me for decision as expeditiously as possible. If any further documentation is required, it will be requested from the person in due course.
Section 16 of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended gives the Minister for Justice absolute discretion to waive the statutory conditions in certain circumstances, including where the applicant is of Irish descent or Irish associations (defined as related through blood, affinity or adoption to a person who is or is entitled to be an Irish citizen).
Each case is examined on its own merits and all aspects of the case are taken into consideration by the Citizenship Division of my Department before being submitted to me for decision.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility at: INISOireachtasMail@justice.ie, which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Question process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in the cases where the response is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
1281. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Justice her plans regarding the redevelopment of the Garda station in east County Meath; if a new Garda station has been discussed to deal with the large increase in population in east County Meath in recent times; her further plans to increase the number of Garda patrol cars in the east County Meath area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15721/21]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is by law responsible for the management of An Garda Síochána, including personnel matters and deployment of resources. 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.
Further, the Office of Public Works (OPW) 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 OPW.
The Garda Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021 is based on agreed Garda priorities. It continues to benefit over 30 locations around the country, underpinned by significant Exchequer funding across the Garda and OPW Votes.
I understand from supplementary information provided by the Deputy that he refers in particular to Laytown. The Building and Refurbishment Programme does not include building works at Laytown Garda Station and I am informed by the Garda authorities that no works are ongoing or are planned for that station at this time.
That being said, there has been a significant increase in Garda resources in Meath in recent years. I am informed by the Garda authorities that as of the end of February 2021, the latest date for which figures are available, a total of 332 Garda members were assigned to the Meath Division, in addition to 44 Garda staff. By contrast, in December 2015 there were a total of 277 Garda members and 26 Garda staff in the Division. These figures represent increases of 20% and 69% respectively.
As the Deputy is aware, Laytown Garda station is located in the Ashbourne District. At 22 March 2021 there were 28 vehicles assigned to Ashbourne District.
A detailed breakdown of Garda numbers by Division, District and Station is available on my Department’s website, in the interests of transparency and for the convenience of Deputies and the wider public. This information is updated every month with the latest data provided by An Garda Síochána. The Information on Garda members requested may be accessed at the following link:
http://www.justice.ie/en/JELR/Pages/Garda_Workforce
The Deputy may also be interested to know that the roll out by the Garda Commissioner of the new Garda Operating Model meets a key commitment in A Policing Service for our Future, the four-year implementation plan giving effect to the recommendations of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland. This model has been long recommended by independent policing specialists, including the Garda Síochána Inspectorate and, while new to Ireland, it is the standard in other countries. The new Operating Model is designed to provide a more responsive, localised policing service to communities and it streamlines Garda administration and re-organises resources in order to do so.
Meath Division is one of the Divisions piloting the new Operating Model. I am confident that adoption by the Commissioner of this new structure will lead to an improved policing service in Meath as well as in other communities nationwide.
1282. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Justice the number of Garda cars and motorcycles attached to the Cavan-Monaghan policing unit as of 15 March 2019, 15 March 2020 and 15 March 2021, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15727/21]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005, the Garda Commissioner is responsible under the law for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána. The allocation of Garda resources is a matter for the Commissioner, in light of identified operational demands. This includes the allocation of vehicles among the various Garda divisions. As Minister, I have no direct role in these decisions. 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 table below, which has been provided to me by the Garda authorities, sets out the number of Cars and Motorcycles assigned to Cavan Monaghan Division at end February 2019, 2020 and 2021.
|
28 February 2021 |
Cars |
Motorcycles |
|
Bailieboro District |
12 |
0 |
|
Carrickmacross District |
7 |
0 |
|
Cavan District |
19 |
2 |
|
Monaghan District |
16 |
2 |
|
Total |
54 |
4 |
|
29 February 2020 |
Cars |
Motorcycles |
|
Bailieboro District |
10 |
0 |
|
Carrickmacross District |
6 |
0 |
|
Cavan District |
17 |
1 |
|
Monaghan District |
12 |
1 |
|
Total |
45 |
2 |
|
28 February 2019 |
Cars |
Motorcycles |
|
Bailieboro District |
10 |
0 |
|
Carrickmacross District |
7 |
0 |
|
Cavan District |
14 |
1 |
|
Monaghan District |
9 |
1 |
|
Total |
40 |
2 |
1283. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Justice the estimated additional cost if the number of gardaí is increased to 15,500 before the end of June 2022; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15728/21]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that the Garda Commissioner is responsible, by law, for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including recruitment and human resources matters. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.
An Garda Síochána has been allocated an unprecedented budget of €1.952 billion for 2021. The significant level of funding provided over recent years is enabling sustained, ongoing recruitment of Garda members and staff. As a 28 February 2021, there are over 14,500 Garda members and over 3,000 Garda staff nationwide.
In relation to Garda recruits, the Deputy will appreciate that these numbers have been affected by the COVID-19 public health restrictions and the subsequent impact in relation to education and accommodation facilities at the Garda College. I am advised by the Garda authorities that it is currently anticipated that An Garda Síochána will be in a position to take in 450 new Trainees over the course of 2021, however these plans will be kept under review in light of the evolving situation with regard to necessary COVID-19 restrictions.
As the Deputy will appreciate, the number of Garda members changes in line with recruitment and retirements. However, the table below, furnished to me by the Garda authorities, outlines the payroll costs relating to the hire of 1,432 Gardaí, which would be required to reach 15,500 sworn members by 30 June 2022.
I would note that payroll costs for new Garda recruits include a basic allowance of €184 per week. After 32 weeks of training, Garda recruits are attested and move on to the first point of the Garda pay scale €31,600 (pay scale that is expected to be in operation on completion of training in November 2021). The figures include Employer's PRSI and an estimation of allowances which Garda members may qualify for depending on their assignments. The annual cost increases as the members move up the Garda Pay scale each year.
|
- |
Cost 1 April 2021 to 30 June 2022 |
|
2021 intake (1432 trainees) |
€51,025,252 |
|
Total Sworn Members |
15,500 |
1284. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Justice her plans to make free psychological supports available to all victims once their court case ends in view of the fact that a range of supports are provided to the perpetrator in prison (details supplied); if she will consider such supports for victims; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15739/21]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that I recently launched the Justice Plan 2021. In that we have committed to ‘Strengthening community safety, reduce reoffending, support victims and combat domestic sexual and gender based violence’. It commits to placing victims at the centre of our criminal justice system and working to remove the fear that many victims have of coming forward to report what happened to them.
The Justice Plan 2021 has a number of actions to advance this goal, including through the implementation of Supporting a Victims Journey. Supporting a Victims Journey is a detailed roadmap, which, when implemented, will ensure we have a more victim-centred system that supports and empowers victims and gives them the confidence to engage with all services knowing they will be supported, informed and treated with respect and dignity at every point and by every person they come into contact with.
It is important to state that the supports being introduced will be provided regardless of whether or not criminal proceedings are in train and will extend beyond the trial and verdict because victims do not stop needing support at the end of a trial.
I am deeply committed to implementing in full all of the recommendations set out in Supporting a Victims Journey and I am chairing an Implementation Oversight Group comprising all relevant Departments and Agencies responsible for driving the implementation of the agreed actions.
While the provision of counselling services is not directly under my remit and falls to Tusla and the Department of Health, I can confirm that both were represented on the O'Malley Implementation Group and are committed to delivering the recommendations as set out in Supporting A Victims Journey and to providing all relevant supports for victims of crime.
1285. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice if her attention has been drawn to issues caused by Covid-19 in relation to interviews within the Probate Office and a delay on cases due to interviews not being conducted; the steps being taken to rectify the matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15776/21]
View answerThe Probate Office is an office of the High Court and management of the courts is the responsibility of the Courts Service. Under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998, management of the courts is the responsibility of the Courts Service which is independent in its functions. However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made regarding the steps being taken to address the current processing times for personal applications for probate in Dublin. The Courts Service has provided the following update on this matter.
Restrictions under Level 5 of the Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021 Plan for Living with COVID-19 has necessitated the temporary closure of the personal applications process in the Dublin Probate Office in October 2020. It had been hoped to recommence appointments with personal applicants in early January 2021, but due to the re-introduction of restrictions, this was not possible and until such time as the restrictions on movement are lifted or significantly reduced, the Courts Service advises there will be no resumption of personal application interviews.
Staff who would usually deal with personal probate applications have been reassigned to work on solicitor applications which continue to be processed.
I am further advised by the Courts Service that personal application interviews cannot be held remotely as the applicant has to be identified by production of appropriate identification and once the identity has been established the applicant has to sign the oath before a staff member. The Courts Service are of the view that remote interviews cannot facilitate this process in such a way as to ensure that the integrity of the Probate system is maintained.
Resources will be diverted to address the arrears of personal applications once interviews can recommence in a safe way, having regard to public health guidelines.
1286. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Justice if she will consider implementing domestic homicide reviews (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15783/21]
View answerThe publication of the independent research on Familicide and Domestic Homicide Reviews is an important commitment under Justice Plan 2021, our plan to build a justice system that works for everyone.
This independent study commissioned by my Department is looking at international best practice in the conduct of domestic homicide reviews with a view to making recommendations in relation to their application in this jurisdiction. The study will be a key facet in delivering on this commitment.
Ms Maura Butler, who is a solicitor and has been a member of the Study’s Advisory Group since its establishment, is leading the work to complete this study. I would emphasise the importance of recognising that the Advisory Group and their work is independent, and my Department is not involved in the work of the study nor is it a member of the Advisory Group.
I expect the report will be finalised in the coming weeks and it will subsequently be published. I look forward to examining the report in detail and I will consider any recommendations made as a priority.
1287. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Justice the status of an appeal by a person (details supplied). [15786/21]
View answerFor reasons of maintaining full confidentiality, it is not my Department's practice to comment on whether an application for asylum or subsidiary protection has been made in the State. An applicant for such protection status, or their legal representative, should contact either the International Protection Office (IPO) or the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT) directly, as appropriate.
The IPO may be contacted: by email to info@ipo.gov.ie; by telephone to the IPO Customer Service Centre at 01 6028008 or in writing to Customer Service Centre, International Protection Office, 79-83 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2.
The IPAT may be contacted either: by email to info@protectionappeals.ie; by telephone at 01-4748400 (or Lo-Call 1890 201 458), or in writing to Corporate Services Division, The International Protection Appeals Tribunal, 6-7 Hanover Street East, Dublin D02 W320.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas mail facility (INISOireachtasmail@justice.ie ) which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the parliamentary questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.
1288. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Justice her plans to implement a wills register for Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15860/21]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the possible establishment of such a register has been suggested on a number of occasions, including in a number of Private Members Bills. However, consultations have taken place with a number of stakeholders, including the Law Society, and they have identified a number of important practical and legal obstacles to establishing such a mechanism. As a consequence establishment of a register is not currently under consideration.
1290. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Justice the total Covid-19-related spend in 2020 by her Department, agency and budget line item; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16272/21]
View answerThe impact of Covid 19 was felt throughout the Justice Sector in 2020 and gave rise to additional expenditure in a number of areas including front-line services, in An Garda Síochána, Prisons, Courts and services for victims of domestic abuse.
These additional requirements contributed to the need for net supplementary estimates in the case of the Garda Vote (€44.325 million); Prisons Vote (€14 million) and Courts (€23 million). While there were other factors giving rise to the supplementary estimates including funding under the Government Economic Stimulus Package, the impact of additional Covid expenditure was a significant contributory factor. In other cases, the costs were met from reallocating expenditure from other areas across the Vote Group.
Garda Síochána
I have been informed by An Garda Síochána that the total expenditure related to Covid 19 was in the region of €84.3 million in 2020.
There was approximately €25.2 million in additional payroll cost mainly related to the implementation of an emergency Covid roster since April 2020. This was subsequently extended taking account of some revisions following the first months of operation and the costs relate to unsocial hour allowance payments to Garda Members with Employer’s PRSI also increasing as a result. In addition, the early attestation of trainee Gardaí to respond to the Covid crisis also contributed to the increased payroll costs.
The overtime cost related to Covid activity in 2020 was in the region of €32 million.
It should be noted that the payroll system does not distinguish between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 activity of a member on the contingency roster. Therefore, there is an element of estimation to identify the estimated increase in pay costs.
Expenditure on PPE was a significant cost factor for all front-line services in the State and the Gardaí were no different. The additional cost in 2020 was in the region of €14 million.
The community focus of policing has been central to success of the Garda’s response to Covid and this has been supported with additional investment of €6.1 million in the Transport Fleet.
Other additional costs directly related to Covid related to the temporary hire of vehicles €1.7 million, additional travel and subsistence costs of €1.4 million, ICT Telecommunications and other overheads such as additional cleaning and sanitation €3.9 million.
Prisons
Covid related expenditure in the Prisons Vote in 2021 was in the region of €7 million. The main areas of expenditure were reflected in the cost of PPE and medical (over €3 million) deep cleaning/maintenance (approximately €2.7 million) and in ICT (€700,000) in relation to remote working including the provision of services such as video linking facilities for prisoner families.
It should be noted that there may be additional costs not as directly related to Covid due to the complexity in apportioning costs based on the invoicing processes of external suppliers. In addition. In addition, some additional hours payments were paid to staff during 2020 to cover situations where colleagues were off duty due to sickness and/or isolation/quarantine related to the pandemic.
Prisons are a high risk environment for transmission of such viruses and the IPS has been proactive in managing and mitigating against the risk since the beginning of the crisis.
The senior management team has been meeting every day since early March 2020 dealing with the day to day security, safety, healthcare, operational and management challenges posed by the pandemic.
An Emergency Response Planning Team was also activated on commencement of the crisis, with key stakeholders represented and meetings convened on a weekly basis to identify and implement protection measures and processes to minimise the impact on prisoners and staff.
Courts
The Courts Service experienced a significant shortfall of in the region of €18 million in Court fee income due to the impact of Covid 19.
The Courts Service has also informed me that it spent in the region of €5.4 million in directly related Covid expenditure including €3.3 million in the fit-out of courtrooms for virtual court hearings and providing staff working remotely with ICT hardware; €550,000 in the hiring of additional Court venues to facilitate social distancing; €500,000 in additional cleaning and hygiene equipment in courthouses and court offices; €409,000 primarily relating to signage installed in courthouses and court offices and €510,000 in additional security and Jury related services to maintain social distancing in courthouses.
Justice Vote
Expenditure in relation to Covid 19 arose in respect of the Justice Vote also in 2020.
While not specifically a campaign to raise awareness of COVID-19, since March 2020 my Department has been running the important ‘Still Here’ campaign. The purpose of this campaign is to reassure victims of domestic abuse that support services from State agencies and the voluntary sector are still available and accessible during the COVID-19 pandemic, regardless of what level of restrictions are in place.
In addition to reminding victims of domestic abuse that help is ‘Still Here’, the campaign also reminds anyone concerned for their safety that the restrictions on movement do not apply to people at risk or who are removing themselves from a domestic abuse situation.
The Department has spent just under €398,000 on the Still Here campaign in 2020.
Additional funding of almost €378,000 was provided to organisations for additional services for Victims of Crime and Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence arising out of the COVID crisis
Agencies such as the Legal Aid Board has spent in the region of €594,000 on Covid related costs in 2020. Other costs incurred in the Justice Vote related to the Coroner Service where, pending a fuller analysis, Covid related expenditure is expected to be in the region of €120,000.
The Department incurred additional ICT costs of in excess of €550,000 to facilitate remote working and other additional cleaning and sanitisation costs of over €200,000.
It is not possible to breakdown precisely some of the expenditure in relation to Covid in certain areas as the cost would not have been invoiced separately.
1291. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Justice the payment options available for persons to pay fines, charges or bills by her Department; and if there are plans to provide further online payment facilities. [16291/21]
View answerI understand from my officials that it is possible for persons to make payments to my Department in a number of ways, and that there were a small number of fees in 2020 which were paid by Electronic Funds Transfer, postal order and cheque.
Furthermore, I understand that my officials in the Immigration Service Delivery function of the Department are currently operating online payments in the following areas:
1. Atypical Work Scheme.
2. Registration Fees - Online Registration Renewal System.
3. Citizenship Certificate Fees.
Looking to the future, there are plans in place to develop a fully digital customer centric immigration service, including the continued roll out of online payment platforms for various processing/application fees.
As the Deputy may be aware, I commit to delivering a fair immigration system for a digital age in Goal Four of the recently published Justice Action Plan 2021. Goal Four of the Justice Plan 2021 contains 6 objectives, and a timeline for relevant objectives and actions for 2021 are provided as follows:
- Publish a roadmap for the transition of all immigration services to online application processes by Q1;
- As part of a new ICT Strategy for the Department of Justice, publish a digital strategy for immigration by Q1; Begin accepting online payments for visa applications Q2 Immigration Service Delivery.
1292. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Health if volunteers carrying out duties for an organisation (details supplied) are required to be vetted for Garda clearance prior to taking up their volunteering role. [15348/21]
View answerAs this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy on this matter, as soon as possible.
1293. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health if socially distanced religious services will resume for Easter week. [15513/21]
View answer1525. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Health if consideration has been given to churches reopening over the Easter period. [14557/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1293 and 1525 together.
As I am sure the Deputies can appreciate, COVID-19 spreads when individuals and groups come into close contact with one another, enabling the virus to move from one person to another. The public health measures recognise the need to reduce congregation and interactions between people to reduce opportunities for the transmission of Covid-19.
The ‘Framework for Restrictive Measures in Response to COVID-19 provides for restrictions on gatherings of people indoors given the higher risk associated with these types of activities. The number of people allowed to gather in different scenarios in the plan is based on a review of international practice and the judgment of public health experts. It seeks to balance the risks of different types of gatherings against the desire to allow normal activities to proceed in so far as possible. The measures in place for each level reflect the prevailing disease situation and recognise that we can and must prioritise some activities over others.
The Framework sets out when it is considered that religious services can take place with protective measures (Levels 1 and 2) and when they must move online (Levels 3,4 and 5). Weddings and funerals are exceptions and can continue at every level with limited numbers. Churches and other places of worship can remain open for private prayer. It is also important to note that at all levels, Ministers of Religion are permitted to travel to perform a service on-line, to minister to the sick, and conduct a funeral or wedding ceremony.
I and my Cabinet colleagues recognise the immense sacrifices that are being made by people across the country at this difficult time. That includes the many people who are affected by their inability to attend church in the way they have been used to. However, there has been significant engagement and solidarity from the Catholic Church and other Faiths at all stages throughout this pandemic to ensure the protection of individuals and communities from COVID-19.
In February, the Taoiseach met with representatives of the Catholic Church to discuss the current level of Covid-19 restrictions and the Church’s desire to return to worship, in particular during the season of Lent and with the approach of Holy Week and Easter. At that meeting the Taoiseach acknowledged the importance of the Church community in people’s lives at this time of stress and worry. He outlined the ongoing concerns regarding the spread of the virus, particularly the new variants, stressing that any increase at all in mobility can have serious consequences for public health and put pressure on the health service. It was agreed to maintain dialogue as the situation evolves.
As the Deputies will appreciate, the level of COVID-19 disease in Ireland remains very high and the epidemiological position is volatile. Public health advice is that it is too early to say how and when restrictions should be eased given current uncertainties. The current public health measures will remain in place until 5 April. Government will meet in advance of that date to review the level of restrictions.
1294. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health if he will advise on obtaining a suitable assessment for a person (details supplied) in order that an educational pathway can be formulated for their future needs. [15525/21]
View answerAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the deputy directly.
1295. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health if he will amend the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 to address the lacuna in the law with respect to the growth of industrial hemp; if he has or will initiate a dialogue with the Ministers for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Finance in the context of industrial hemp given it is a carbon sink and sequesters carbon dioxide in addition to producing a strong economic return for growers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15825/21]
View answerThe matter raised by the Deputy is currently subject to legal challenge and consequently I am not in a position to offer further comment.
1296. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health the timeline for and details of the scheduled review of the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018; the way in which he plans to collect evidence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16269/21]
View answer1492. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Health the timeline and the terms of reference for the review of the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14405/21]
View answer1634. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Health if the details of any proposed review of the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018 will be provided; the timing and form this review will take; if the review will hear from concerned groups or accept submissions; the role of the Oireachtas Committee on Health in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14884/21]
View answer1929. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Health the details of the three-year review of the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018; the person or body that will carry out the review; the terms of reference for the review; the timeframe for the review; if submissions will be sought or accepted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15955/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1296, 1492, 1634 and 1929 together.
The Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018 was signed into law on 20 December 2018 and commenced on 1 January 2019. Section 7 of the Act states that “The Minister shall, not later than 3 years after the commencement of this section, carry out a review of the operation of this Act”.
The review is scheduled to be progressed in 2021 and will be overseen by my Department. It is anticipated that it will take a three-part approach to reviewing the operation of the Act, with strands focusing on service users, service providers and a public consultation. Research to inform the service user and service provider strands will be commissioned and carried out independently, while the Department will manage the public consultation, and collate and analyse the findings of the different strands of the review.
Upon completion a full report, with any necessary recommendations, will be submitted to me, as Minister, for consideration.
1297. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Health if he will address concerns raised by SNAs in relation to their current position on the vaccine roll-out list (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13867/21]
View answerThe COVID-19 Vaccine Allocation Strategy sets out a provisional list of groups for vaccination. The Strategy was developed by the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) and my Department, endorsed by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), and approved by Government on 8 December 2020.
Vaccine allocation is a matter for my Department and further information is available here:
https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/39038-provisional-vaccine-allocation-groups/.
The roll out of the COVID-19 vaccination programme is the responsibility of the HSE.
The aim of the COVID-19 vaccination programme is to ensure, over time, that vaccine will become available to vaccinate all of those for whom the vaccine is indicated. Given that there will be initially limited vaccines available, it will take some time for all to receive those vaccines and that has necessitated an allocation strategy to ensure that those most at risk of death and serious illness receive the vaccine first.
The priority is to first vaccinate and protect directly the most vulnerable amongst us, that is, those most likely to have a poor outcome if they contract the virus. The priority is to directly use vaccines to save lives and reduce serious illness, hence the focus on the over 65 year old cohort in long term residential care facilities, and healthcare workers in front-line services often caring for the most vulnerable.
Vaccination of those aged 70 and older (in the following order: 85 and older, 80-84, 75-79, and 70-74) began in February.
On the 23rd of February, I announced an update to Ireland’s COVID-19 Vaccine Allocation Strategy.
In comprising the initial Vaccine Allocation Strategy, the NIAC listed several conditions associated with increased risk of severe disease and death. In the intervening period, national and international evidence has become available which has enabled a more detailed analysis of underlying conditions that may increase the risk of developing severe disease or death.
The NIAC has now been able to more comprehensively identify those medical conditions and to distinguish between those which place a person at very high or high risk of severe disease if they contract the virus. Medical conditions and the magnitude of the risk they pose will continue to be monitored and periodically reviewed.
The NIAC continues to monitor data around this disease and indeed emerging data on effectiveness of vaccines on a rolling basis.
Further details are available at the following link:
https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/b44b2-minister-donnelly-announces-update-to-vaccine-allocation-strategy/
The ongoing review process will continue to look at the other priority groups yet to be vaccinated, along with the competing needs of those working or living in high-risk situations, carers who deliver essential services to highly dependent individuals in the home setting, and those who are socially vulnerable/disadvantaged.
1298. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Health if consideration is being given to increasing funding to services that treat persons with eating disorders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13870/21]
View answerAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.
1299. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Health if South Tipperary General Hospital is to lose ten of its current 19 intern doctors; if he will consider reversing the decision; his views on the way the failure to employ graduating doctors will lead to forced emigration; his views on the impact this will have on the health service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13878/21]
View answerOver the past number of weeks, my Department and the HSE have been reviewing the option to increase the number of medical intern places for July 2021.
I have announced an increase of 120 medical intern posts for July 2021. The increase in the number of intern places will be supported with accompanying increases in postgraduate training places, to ensure these doctors can avail of the next step in the training pathway following completion of an internship.
The six Intern Training Networks, that organise and oversee intern training in Ireland, are responsible for the allocation of intern posts within their particular networks. The networks have now been informed of the additional intern posts for July 2021 and will allocate the additional posts appropriately.
1300. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Health the position of persons with ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease in the vaccine priority list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13879/21]
View answer1326. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health when patients with inflammatory bowel disease will be called for vaccination against Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13944/21]
View answer1431. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Health when persons living with irritable bowel disease and taking the immunosuppressant adalimumab will be vaccinated against Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14195/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1300, 1326 and 1431 together.
On the 23rd of February 2021, I announced an update to Ireland’s COVID-19 Vaccine Allocation Strategy.
In comprising the initial Vaccine Allocation Strategy, the NIAC listed several conditions associated with increased risk of severe disease and death. In the intervening period, national and international evidence has become available which has enabled a more detailed analysis of underlying conditions that may increase the risk of developing severe disease or death.
The NIAC has now been able to more comprehensively identify those medical conditions and to distinguish between those which place a person at very high or high risk of severe disease if they contract the virus. Medical conditions and the magnitude of the risk they pose will continue to be monitored and periodically reviewed.
The NIAC continues to monitor data around this disease and indeed emerging data on effectiveness of vaccines on a rolling basis. Further details are available at the following link:
https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/b44b2-minister-donnelly-announces-update-to-vaccine-allocation-strategy/
The next cohort to be vaccinated (Cohort 4) are those aged 16-69 and at very high risk of severe illness and death. Vaccination of this group began in March.
In relation to the categories of very high risk and high risk conditions, this list is not exhaustive. It may also include people who have been classed as at very high risk, based on clinical judgement and an assessment of need. It is recommended that the individuals concerned discuss this with their treating physician who is in the best position to give appropriate advice.
It is important to emphasise that vaccination is only one part of our response to the prevention of COVID-19 infection. People who are vaccinated need to continue with all the public health measures that have been proven to reduce the risk of infection, i.e., limiting our social contacts, physical distancing, wearing a mask, hand hygiene, cough etiquette and avoiding non-essential travel until a sufficiently large proportion of the population are immune.
1301. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Health the estimated date those in priority group 7 will begin to receive Covid-19 vaccinations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13880/21]
View answerAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
1302. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Health if he will extend the arrangement piloted in 2020 by which additional intern positions for newly qualified doctors were created in the public hospital system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13885/21]
View answerOver the past number of weeks, my Department and the HSE have been reviewing the option to increase the number of medical intern places for July 2021. I am happy to announce an increase of 120 medical intern posts for July 2021.
The increase in the number of intern places will be supported with accompanying increases in postgraduate training places, to ensure these doctors can avail of the next step in the training pathway following completion of an internship.
Over the next number of months, the HSE will be undertaking a formal review of the number of intern posts and postgraduate training positions to ensure the number of intern places are in line with future medical workforce planning requirements of the health service. As part of this review the clinical sites where additional intern posts are most needed will be considered to ensure that the current configuration provides the most efficient and educationally appropriate model.
