Gerald Nash
Question:76. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when he plans to publish legislation to amend the Regulation of Lobbying Act 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54953/21]
View answerProposed Legislation
Questions (76)
Written answers
As the Deputy is aware, the Taoiseach announced a review of the Regulation of Lobbying Act 2015 (the Act) in September 2020. My Department’s comprehensive review of the Act concluded in early summer 2021 and the Government approved the preparation of the heads of a General Scheme to amend the Act in July.
The Heads are close to finalisation and will be brought to Government for consideration. Government approval will be sought for publication of the General Scheme and priority drafting.
My Department is in the process of early constructive engagement with the Office of the Attorney General to identify and mitigate legal issues which may arise in amending legislation in this complex policy area.
The proposals to amend the Act will build on the existing strong legislative foundation and further strengthen Ireland’s lobbying laws. In particular, the purpose of the amendments will be to:
- Improve the operation and functionality of the Lobbying Register;
- Strengthen the existing legislation and its enforcement; and
- Make failure to comply with the post-term employment restrictions set out in section 22 of the Act a relevant contravention under the Act.
An Garda Síochána
Questions (77)
Sorca Clarke
Question:77. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of unoccupied Garda stations in counties Longford and Westmeath that are owned by the State; the future plans for each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55388/21]
View answerWritten answers
I am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works that the former Garda stations in Ardagh and Ballinalee County Longford are vacant. There are no vacant former Garda stations in Co. Westmeath.
In May of this year, my officials wrote to 12 local authorities advising them of the Town and Village Renewal Scheme funding that is available from the Department of Community and Rural Development. Following this communication, Longford Co. Council expressed an interest in acquiring the former Garda station in Ballinalee.
As there is no State interest in the former Garda station in Ardagh it is planned to dispose of the property by public auction in 2022.
As the Deputy may be aware, the Office of Public Works (OPW) manages and maintains a substantial and complex estate - approximately 2,500 properties -– valued at around €3.3 billion.
It is a diverse portfolio that includes office accommodation for all Government Departments, the property estate for An Garda Síochána and numerous properties for many State Agencies. The portfolio also houses specialised spaces such as public offices, laboratories, cultural institutions, warehouses, heritage properties, visitor centres and sites.
In any major portfolio, there will always be a certain level of vacant properties. Not all vacant properties are deemed surplus to the State’s requirements or deemed suitable for disposal.
The OPW, like other State bodies, is obliged to follow central Government policies and protocols on the disposal of surplus properties.
As a matter of policy, no property or site is disposed of until there is absolute certainty that there is no alternative State use for that property.
The OPW’s approach to managing vacant properties is firstly, to establish if the property is needed for alternative State use; if it can be re-purposed for Government Departments or the wider public service.
A number of strategic properties or sites are retained in case of future State use or development. We have to be in a position to meet demands arising from Government policy changes to public service provision.
Secondly, if no State use is identified, the OPW considers open market disposal – depending on market conditions.
Thirdly, we may consider community involvement, depending on a detailed submission showing that a community or voluntary group can insure, maintain and manage the property.
The Office of Public Works (OPW) has had a disposal programme in place for many years, which is a normal part of managing any large property portfolio. In 2014, there were almost 240 vacant surplus properties, including the 139 closed stations.
Since 2014, the number of vacant and surplus properties reduced to 102 properties. This reduction includes 125 income generating disposals - generating income in excess of €22million for the Exchequer. Included in the remaining 102 surplus properties is 37 of the 139 Garda stations that were closed in 2012 and 2013. The disposal programme for these specific properties began in January 2014, but was delayed because of a request from An Garda Síochána (AGS) in 2016 to postpone further disposals while two policing reviews were undertaken. The Reviews by AGS were completed in December 2018 and the OPW restarted the disposal process in January 2019. The programme of disposals was further interrupted by Covid-related lockdowns in 2020 and 2021, though the OPW progressed a number of transfers or disposals where it was feasible.
National Parks
Questions (78, 90)
Neasa Hourigan
Question:78. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the reason that generator-powered mobile floodlights have been installed in the Phoenix Park given the refusal by the OPW to upgrade lights on Chesterfield Avenue to accommodate walkers and cyclists on the grounds of light pollution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54119/21]
View answerNeasa Hourigan
Question:90. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans to restore and open the public toilets on the west side of Infirmary Road, Dublin 7 adjoining the Phoenix Park and beside the entrance off the North Circular Road, in line with the restoration of the Magazine Fort; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54118/21]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 78 and 90 together.
The Phoenix Park is a historic landscape of international importance and one of the largest designed landscapes in any European city. The Park extends to 1752 acres and represents a unique natural and cultural landscape that is both a historic park and a city park and which provides a setting for a range of activities and amenities. The location, size and use of The Phoenix Park can be compared to similar large urban parks in other cities, including Regent’s Park in London, the Bois de Boulogne in Paris and Central Park in New York.
The Park is a complex place comprising many components that serve a variety of functions. It is often referred to as Dublin’s ‘Green Lung’ as it offers citizens and visitors an extraordinary opportunity to engage with nature and the outdoors right in the heart of our capital city.
The Office of Public Works, together with its strategic partners Fáilte Ireland and the then Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, commissioned an independent strategic review of the visitor experience in the Phoenix Park in 2018. Following extensive public consultation in late 2019, a number of key visitor priorities were finalised including the conservation of the Magazine Fort, the upgrade of the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre along with sustainable transport and mobility recommendations for implementation. In all over seventeen significant visitor experience actions were identified.
Investment for the enhancement of the Phoenix Park as a heritage destination under the National Development Plan will facilitate the implementation of the agreed priorities identified in the Phoenix Park Visitor Experience Strategic Review. To this end, the planning application for the restoration and improvement of visitor facilities at the Magazine Fort was lodged with Dublin City Council on the 5th of November this year. This will include provision of new toilet facilities at that location. Upgrades to the toilet facilities at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre are currently being undertaken and these will be re-open to the public in late December 2021.
With regard to the toilet facilities located on Infirmary Road, that the Deputy is referring to, these have not been in use for over 15 years and when in use, Dublin City Council employed a caretaker who opened/ closed and maintained the toilets. Unfortunately, the toilets were subject to considerable anti-social behaviour and arson. This led to the decision by DCC to close them to the public. The premises is currently in poor condition. The restoration of the closed public toilets on Infirmary Road was not identified as a priority in the visitor experience review or through the detailed public consultation that followed. Therefore, they have not been prioritised for upgrade in the short to medium term.
I can advise that there are several toilet facilities located within the Park and these are all open during daylight hours where cleaning staff provide passive surveillance and security. The provision of toilet facilities in the Park is kept under continuous review.
In respect of the provision of temporary public lighting; The Phoenix Park is a key location for a range of national and local events presented by internal stakeholders such as Dublin Zoo and third parties including charities, semi state bodies and concert promoters. This is a significant aspect of the Parks operations with in the region of 550,000 people taking part in major road races, pitch sports and attending large public events such as Concerts & Bloom in the Park. (Pre-Covid).
Dublin Zoo attracts 1.2 million visitors annually to the Park. The hugely successful ‘Wild Lights’ event attracted 214,000 ticketed visitors over 47 nights in 2019. The income generated from this event is essential to support Dublin Zoo’s year round operations. The mobile lighting that the Deputy is referring to, close to Dublin Zoo on Chesterfield Avenue, has been erected on a temporary basis and specifically for patrons visiting Dublin Zoo’s “Wild Lights” event, which runs for 57 days from 28th October 2021 – 9th January 2022. These temporary lights allow for the safe ingress/egress during darkness for members of the public, including children, the elderly and people with disabilities, who will be visiting this event at the Zoo. The temporary lights are powered by HVO - hydro-treated vegetable oil - which is a direct replacement for diesel, is 90 % cleaner than burning diesel, is carbon neutral and renewable.
The Deputy will note that in order to facilitate the significant increase of pedestrian users during the pandemic, the 8km bicycle lanes along Chesterfield Avenue, were converted to a pedestrian footpath which had the added bonus, of increased lighting level for pedestrians who walk in this area at night due to this paths closer proximity to the gas light standards. Pedestrian are no longer restricted to the low light areas behind the mature trees on Chesterfield Avenue but rather can now walk adjacent to the lights for the entire length of the Avenue.
The Phoenix Park is one of the few remaining public areas in Europe that still relies on gas for public lighting. The decision to preserve this unique system was made to support the conservation of the historic fabric of the Park and to retain low levels of light pollution, so that the Park can remain one of the few locations in Dublin where star gazing is possible. Gas was first introduced into the Park in 1859 by the Hibernian Gas Company and is a major visual element in the Park's landscape.
The conservation and preservation of these features along with the architecture, built environment, archaeology, biodiversity and landscape are key objectives in the Phoenix Park Conservation Management Plan 2011. The Phoenix Park has over 25 different types of habitats and support over 50% of the mammals and 40% of bird species found in Ireland. The Park was designed as a Deer Park in 1662 and is still maintained as one, to support over 600 wild Fallow Deer. The deer graze and feed across all areas of the park and the installation of additional artificial lights throughout the Park will affect their movements across their various habitats at night.
There is a specific objective (SO 8.9) in the Phoenix Park Conservation Management Plan under Architecture and the Built Environment "to maintain the current lighting levels within the Park so as to minimise the levels of light pollution" and therefore the OPW has no plans to install additional lights within the Phoenix Park, other than the traditional gas lights.
Furthermore, recent studies are now highlighting the impact that artificial lighting is having on nocturnal pollination species and this in turn is having negative consequences for plant pollination, worldwide.
National Development Plan
Questions (79)
Christopher O'Sullivan
Question:79. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an overview of NSO 8 of the National Development Plan 2021-2030; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55859/21]
View answerWritten answers
At the outset it should be noted that my Department, in carrying out its role in coordinating the NDP Review, does not consider the merit of individual projects or sectoral policy strategies as this is primarily a matter for individual Departments and Agencies.
With that point noted, I would be glad to give a summary of the NSO 8 which seeks the Transition to a Climate-Neutral and Climate-Resilient Society. The next ten years are critical in order to address the climate crisis and we have significantly stepped up our climate ambition by committing to reduce our overall greenhouse gas emissions by 51% by 2030, and to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
This is set out in the new Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021. Under the new legislation, the Climate Action Plan must be updated every year so that our actions keep step with the trajectory required to achieve our targets.
The sectoral strategies for flood risk management are outlined in the Government’s Climate Change Sectoral Adaptation Plan for Flood Risk Management. These strategies play a critical role in identifying the goals and priorities for the sector and are therefore critical in informing the investment projects set out in the NDP.
Over the period out to 2030 an additional €5 billion of the expected €9.5 billion in additional carbon tax receipts will be invested in energy efficiency. In terms of strategic investment priorities for the energy sector, this includes supporting the delivery of offshore renewable energy, retrofitting of 500,000 homes, and the installation of 600,000 heat pumps. Specific projects include the Celtic Interconnector, which will be, when completed in 2026, Ireland’s largest electricity interconnector. Strategic investment priorities for Transport include the transition to a low or zero emissions public bus fleet, an additional 500,000 sustainable journeys per day and nearly one million electric vehicles on the road by 2030. In addition, there are a wide range of major flood risk management projects planned throughout the country, for example the Lower Lee flood relief scheme.
These are just some of the many investments which will be delivered under this NSO in the coming years to support Project Ireland 2040. Further details on projects, by NSO, can be found on the investment tracker on gov.ie/2040.
National Development Plan
Questions (80)
Dara Calleary
Question:80. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the progress that has been made on initiatives to improve the delivery of capital investment projects and to achieve greater value for money as set out in the national development plan. [55837/21]
View answerWritten answers
Delivering greater value for money in the expenditure of public funds is a key element of all public investment policy.
The update of the Public Spending Code in 2019 combined with lessons learned from domestic projects and international best practice highlighted the need for more structured scrutiny of major public investment projects, particularly in the areas of planned delivery, costings and risk. This is to ensure that Government is making decisions with a full picture of the proposal, its costs, risks and benefits.
The revised National Development Plan (NDP) 2021-2030 pledges to restructure the oversight and implementation of capital projects to strengthen scrutiny of major public investment proposals and to drive improved project performance and value for money.
In order to achieve this, my Department has put in place an External Assurance Process (EAP) to provide independent project scrutiny at key decision stages. It is a mandatory requirement for all funding departments to participate in the process for major projects over €100m. My Department has established a framework of suitable suppliers who can provide a range of independent specialist expertise, to conduct reviews at critical points in the decision-making and project development stages. This framework is in place and will be utilised once projects over €100m reach the key decision gates for Government approval.
The purpose of the EAP is to improve value for money and support funding departments and Government with expert insight relating to project risks, delivery feasibility, and robustness of costings, governance and procurement. The EAP for major public capital projects (projects which cost in excess of €100m) will focus on issues such as cost, risk and ability to deliver, at two key points in the project lifecycle, Decision Gate 1 (Approval in Principle) and Decision Gate 2 (Pre-Tender Approval).
To support the External Assurance Process a new Major Projects Advisory Group (MPAG) has been established to further strengthen project management. As a prerequisite to seeking Government approval for projects at the relevant decision gates, project proposals and external reviews will be scrutinised by the MPAG in advance of the decision to proceed. The new arrangements bring Ireland into line with leading international performers and meet a recommendation of the IMF’s Public Investment Management Assessment of Ireland.
These updates are due to be actioned imminently within November 2021 and have been discussed at Government in recent weeks.
Public Spending Code
Questions (81)
Richard Bruton
Question:81. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the methodology to ensure that public capital projects and public procurement avail of every opportunity to minimise carbon footprint and avail of opportunities for sequestration of carbon; and if he is planning to put in place a reporting format to ensure that it will happen. [55586/21]
View answerWritten answers
My Department has already introduced a range of measures which consider the climate and environmental impact of public capital projects at key points in the development of those projects.
The recent NDP Review included an assessment of the impact that each of the Exchequer-funded measures contained in the NDP is likely to have on climate and environmental outcomes.
The Public Spending Code requires every public investment project with a value above €20 million to conduct a full analysis on all the potential costs and benefits associated with that project - including a quantitative assessment of the net impact on greenhouse gas emissions the proposal will have.
As projects proceed to detailed design and construction stages both operational and embodied carbon must be considered when determining the carbon footprint of a construction project. For the majority of building projects the operational carbon emitted will eclipse the embodied carbon in the construction phase. The Building Regulations require all new buildings to achieve a near zero energy rating.
Determining the embodied carbon of a building project is a complex, iterative process repeated at key stages in the project’s development. It must take into account all of the materials used in the construction phase, where they are sourced, how often they will be replaced over the lifetime of the building and their potential for re-use or re-cycling.
The analysis must also consider materials that have a high embodied carbon footprint but which can significantly reduce the operational carbon emissions over the life-cycle of the building. The means to measure and verify embodied carbon in a consistent fashion is, therefore, a key dependency which has been identified in Actions 190 - 192 of the recently published Climate Action Plan.
Once developed, these metrics will enable project teams to set appropriate carbon targets for individual projects, to verify they are being met and reward those proposals which can improve on those targets. The Office of Government Procurement is contributing to the work that is ongoing to develop these metrics so they may be deployed throughout the Capital Works Management Framework.
Office of Public Works
Questions (82)
Jennifer Murnane O'Connor
Question:82. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the Office of Public Works project at Carlow Castle due to have been completed in October 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55825/21]
View answerWritten answers
I am delighted to advise that essential works at Carlow Castle have been completed and the site is available to the public since 29th October 2021.
There was a need to put some localised fencing in place to keep visitors at a distance from the face of certain walls within the castle complex. These areas were highlighted as potential hazards during the recent work and until further structural investigations and assessments can be made, these fences will stay in place. However, with the current arrangement in place, the public can still view the castle from all sides, making sure that a visit to the Castle is as complete as possible.
National Development Plan
Questions (83, 102)
Niamh Smyth
Question:83. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the way the revised national development plan will enhance regional accessibility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55753/21]
View answerNiamh Smyth
Question:102. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an overview of NSO 2 of the National Development Plan 2021-2030; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55752/21]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 83 and 102 together.
Again at the outset it should be noted that my Department, in carrying out its role in coordinating the NDP Review, does not consider the merit of individual projects or sectoral policy strategies as this is primarily a matter for individual Departments and Agencies.
With that point noted, I would be glad to give the Deputy an overview of the NSO 2 which is the delivery of enhanced regional connectivity. This National Strategic Outcome seeks to enhance intra-regional accessibility through improving transport links between key urban centres of population and their respective regions, as well as improving transport links between the regions themselves.
The relevant sectoral strategies include a new Sustainable Mobility Policy which is being developed by The Department of Transport as well as the forthcoming National Investment Framework for Transport in Ireland (NIFTI) which will set out the prioritisation for future investment in the land transport network to support the delivery of the National Planning Framework.
The Government is firmly committed to encouraging the use of walking, cycling and other active travel methods, and this has been signalled by the recent increase in the active travel budget, for example the continued rollout of the successful and popular Greenways programme throughout the country.
Investment in the regional and commuter bus fleet will continue with the purchase of up to 400 new vehicles. A Strategic Rail Review has recently been launched which will examine all aspects of the inter-urban and inter-regional rail network including decarbonising the railway, and the feasibility of higher speeds and increased capacity.
Under the new NDP, the National Roads programme will continue to provide for improved connectivity across the years 2021-2030. Accordingly, there will be significant investment in the national road network across the next 10 years.
A total of 31 specific national road projects were identified as priorities in the NDP, for example the N/M20 Cork to Limerick. This is not an exhaustive list and these projects will progress through the relevant approval processes at different speeds depending on the particular nature of the projects. Funding from within the available budget will then be provided as necessary.
The recent completion of the new N4 Upgrade to Sligo provides a great example of the kind of road investment being delivered under Project Ireland 2040.
Flood Risk Management
Questions (84)
Aindrias Moynihan
Question:84. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the flooding projects to be undertaken by the Office of Public Works in County Cork for 2022; the estimated cost of same; the drainage projects to be undertaken by Cork County Council with financial assistance from the Office of Public Works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55912/21]
View answerWritten answers
The Government has allowed for €1 billion of capital investment in Flood Risk Management to 2030 as part of the National Development Plan. This allocation is to allow the OPW, in collaboration with Local Authority Delivery Partners, to continue implementation of its comprehensive programme of investment in flood relief schemes nationally. The Office of Public Works has planned significant expenditure for flood relief works in County Cork as part of the NDP. The projects in County Cork to be undertaken in 2022 are included in this expenditure profile.
I wish to advise the Deputy of the schemes to be undertaken in County Cork in 2022:
Bantry Flood Relief Scheme
A Steering Group, comprising representatives from the Office of Public Works and Cork County Council, is in place to progress the Bantry Flood Relief Scheme. The Plans, with outline design of possible measures, estimated a preliminary Total Project Cost of €6.7m for the scheme, which will protect some 198 properties. Cork County Council issued the tender documentation for the procurement of Engineering Consultants. The Tender Evaluation and Sign Off Process for the appointment of a Consultant to undertake the Engineering and Environmental Consultancy Services for the delivery of the Bantry Flood Relief Scheme is almost completed, and it is expected that the preferred tenderer will be notified in the coming weeks.
Douglas Flood Relief
The Douglas flood relief scheme (incl Togher culvert) is being progressed by Cork County Council and Cork City Council (following boundary extension). In November 2017 planning approval was given by An Bord Pleanála for the Douglas (incl Togher culvert) scheme. The scheme is being delivered in 3 Phases. Construction of the scheme commenced in 2019, with the first two phases now substantially complete. The construction contract was awarded for the final phase, Phase 3 - Togher Main works in Summer 2021 with the scheme now at construction. The total project budget for the scheme is €28m which will protect 231 properties. The programme of works for Phase 3 is 16 months.
Glashaboy Flood Relief Scheme
The Glashaboy River Flood Relief Scheme at Glanmire / Sallybrook, Cork is being progressed by Cork City Council. This scheme was confirmed on 18th January 2021 by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform. The scheme will provide protection to 103 properties with an estimated total project budget of €17.8m. Cork City Council as the Contracting Authority for the project will appoint the civil works contractor. Tenders for the above scheme were invited by Cork City Council on E-tenders on 30th September 2021 with the closing date for receipt of tenders of 22nd December 2021. The construction works are expected to be completed within 18-24 months. Following tenders being received, the tender assessment will be completed with a view of construction beginning in Q1 2022.
Midleton Flood Relief Scheme
The Midleton flood relief scheme with an estimated cost of €50m is currently in the final stages of the Scheme Development stage. The next Public Participation Day is to be scheduled for Q2 2022. A Scheme Climate Change Adaptation Plan is being included in the scheme to aid in current and future options.
Ballyvourney/Ballymakeera Flood Relief Scheme
The Ballyvourney/Ballymakeera flood relief scheme is currently at outline design stage. The preferred option is being progressed with a view to finalising in the coming months. The Project Team is currently assessing the potential impact of any proposed flood relief measures in the respect of notable environmental and fisheries’ sensitivities in the Ballymakeera Study Area, and engaging with the Project’s Environmental Consultants in order to ensure that suitable mitigation requirements are implemented, and appropriate processes to comply with statutory provisions are followed. It is anticipated that the scheme can progress to Public Exhibition within the coming months. The estimated project budget for the scheme is €17.9m.
Skibbereen Flood Relief
The Skibbereen Flood Relief Scheme was substantially completed on 6th June 2019. All known defects arising from the construction have been remedied, with some delays as a result of Covid-19.
Some drainage works on Cork Road, which fall outside the remit of the main Scheme, have subsequently been identified as being necessary. Detailed assessments are currently being progressed by Cork County Council in conjunction with the OPW and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), to identify the most effective solution. The OPW is providing some funding under the Minor Works & Flood Mitigation Scheme towards these works.
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that in 2021 Cork County Council has been notified that funding has been approved for the following applications submitted under the OPW Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection scheme. Progression of these works is a matter for Cork County Council.
|
- |
Area |
Applications |
Funding |
|
Cork County Council |
Garranachole Castletownroche |
Installation of gully trap and perforated drainage pipes and associated works |
€22,500 |
|
Cork County Council |
Garranachole Castletownroche |
Installation of gully trap and perforate drainage pipes and associated works |
€22,500 |
|
Cork County Council |
Pilmore Sluice Youghal |
Repair /replacement of sluice gate & associated works |
€34,392 |
|
Cork County Council |
Crookstown |
Storm water pumping station, new drainage pipes and associated works |
€297,027 |
|
Cork County Council |
Lower Adamstown Ballinhassig |
Replace culvert under R613 with a Section 50 compliant culvert |
€40,000 |
|
Cork County Council |
Bantry interim works |
Works- mobile pumps, sump chambers, sealing gullies, non-return valves, large sandbags and associated works |
€101,578 |
Freedom of Information
Questions (85)
Fergus O'Dowd
Question:85. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the progress on the review of the Freedom of Information Acts; the number of FOI requests across State agencies for each year since 2015; the number of requests fully and partially granted; and the number disallowed. [55670/21]
View answerWritten answers
I would like to thank the Deputy for his interest in this important topic and for allowing me this opportunity to update the House on the progress of my Department's review of the Freedom of Information Act.
In recent weeks I have published a roadmap for the review, setting out the various steps and timeframes for the process. In brief, this includes a public consultation on the scope of the review, the publication early in the new year of a consultation paper informed by stakeholders' views on the themes to be addressed and a full consultation in which my Department will seek detailed submissions on the issues.
In addition, my Department is developing a customer satisfaction survey to gauge perceptions of the FOI process, as well as a methodology for estimating the administrative burden and cost of the FOI system. As the review progresses, these key information gathering activities will be supplemented by a desk-based review of international best practices, interviews, focus groups, regional events and other activities as required.
This is a ambitious programme of work in the interests of a careful and thorough review of the FOI system. The review will conclude with a report and recommendations, which is scheduled for mid-2022.
I want to encourage all stakeholders to get involved in this important review, from the public sector to the media, academia, activists and interest groups, as well as individual requesters.
In line with this approach, my Department last week launched the initial public consultation on the scope of the review. The consultation includes a convenient online web form through which individuals can have their say, as well as submissions from public bodies, advocacy and other representative groups.
This has received a very positive response to date, with more than 200 responses received within 24 hours of launch, and a steady stream of further submissions since then. The consultation will remain open until 17th December.
In relation to the second part of the Deputy's question, a table is included below setting out the total number of requests, the numbers granted in full, in part, refused and the numbers transferred, withdrawn or handled outside the FOI system.
In general terms, the Freedom of Information Act means that any record held by an FOI body relating to its business can in principle be requested. The legislation also contains exemption provisions which allow a record to be redacted or refused in full where, for example, it contains the personal information or commercially sensitive information of third parties. This is decided on a case by case basis having regard to the specific record concerned.
Please note that an outright "disallowance" of a request is not a feature of the FOI system. The legislation does place certain obligations on requesters to state their request clearly and in a way that allows public bodies to identify relevant records by carrying out reasonable searches. This is a necessary safeguard to ensure the best possible outcomes for all concerned, particularly the requester, and to ensure a reasonably efficient use of state resources.
However, if a person who wishes to make an FOI request does not state clearly what they are looking for, that is not the end of the matter. From there, the public body is obliged by law to assist or offer to assist the requester in making their request. It is often the case that a request that was initially found to be invalid is framed appropriately with the assistance of the public body concerned and then processed in the normal way.
In other cases, a request may be made to a body that holds no relevant records, but that may be aware of another body that may have material of interest to the requester. The legislation requires that the request is transferred to the relevant body in such cases, which amount to roughly 2% of cases in most years.
It may happen that a person makes an FOI request seeking to achieve something that FOI cannot do, for example in order to make a complaint or to appeal against a decision. In such cases, they may withdraw their request once the body directs them to a more appropriate mechanism to meet their needs.
In some cases, a public body may direct a person to publicly available information or provide them with information without the need for a formal decision. This quicker and less bureaucratic approach of where possible handling issues outside of FOI to facilitate the access to information in the shortest possible time and with a minimum of fuss is encouraged as a matter of policy. In most years, around 8% of requests are withdrawn or handled outside of FOI.
The Deputy will see that the outcomes of FOI requests over the past six years has remained remarkably consistent, with more than four out of every five requests decided on by public bodies through the formal FOI process granted in full or in part.
|
Year |
Total Requests Dealt With |
Granted in full |
Granted in part |
Refused |
Transferred, withdrawn or handled outside FOI |
|
2015 |
26,886 |
14,695 |
6,153 |
3,177 |
2,841 |
|
2016 |
29,736 |
15,073 |
6,665 |
4,008 |
3,990 |
|
2017 |
32,815 |
16,704 |
7,638 |
4,826 |
3,647 |
|
2018 |
35,669 |
17,152 |
8,901 |
5,497 |
4,119 |
|
2019 |
41,176 |
19,510 |
10,805 |
6,093 |
4,768 |
|
2020 |
32,652 |
15,067 |
8,271 |
5,399 |
3,915 |
An Garda Síochána
Questions (86)
Jennifer Murnane O'Connor
Question:86. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a contract for works on Leighlinbridge Garda station has been initiated; the date when the rural station in County Carlow will be reopened; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55826/21]
View answerWritten answers
A Programme for Government included for a ‘pilot programme of station re-openings’ throughout the country, including Leighlinbridge Garda Station.
Tenders for the refurbishment works were issued to contractors in July and submissions returned in August 2021.
The evaluation of tenders submitted is now complete. This matter is the subject of ongoing discussion between An Garda Síochána and the Office of Public Works. AsAn Garda Síochána are funding this project, the Office of Public Works awaits approval from An Garda Síochána to proceed with the award of contract.
The programme for the completion of the refurbishment works is approximately three months.
National Development Plan
Questions (87)
Cormac Devlin
Question:87. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an overview of NSO 10 of the National Development Plan 2021-2030; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55879/21]
View answerWritten answers
At the outset it should be noted that my Department, in carrying out its role in coordinating the NDP Review, does not consider the merit of individual projects or sectoral policy strategies as this is primarily a matter for individual Departments and Agencies.
However I am glad to give the Deputy an overview of the NSO 10: Access to Quality Childcare, Education and Health Services. Whilst this NDP provides public investment in education and health infrastructure, the estimated population growth of one million and Ireland’s changing demographic profile will present a significant challenge, especially in the area of health.
Some relevant sectoral strategies in this area are the First 5 strategy in childcare, the schools Large Scale Projects Programme and Additional Accommodation Programme, as well as the Sláintecare Implementation Strategy. These strategies play a critical role in identifying the goals and priorities for this NSO and are therefore critical in informing the investment projects set out in the NDP and meeting demographic demands.
Under the new NDP this Government will deliver an average of 150 to 200 school building projects every single year over the period 2021 to 2025 to provide necessary additional capacity and support the modernisation of existing school facilities including as much as possible future proofing from a climate action perspective.
Investment priorities in Health include the implementation of critical infrastructure around eHealth and ICT, the Primary Care Centre construction programme, the Disability capital programme focusing on a move towards de-congregated settings, the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service expansion programme and the advancement of a range of priority projects set out in further health strategies. The second Paediatric Outpatient Department and Urgent Care Centre at Tallaght Hospital is expected to open in mid-November 2021. The NCH at St. James’s is expected to complete construction at the end of 2023.
Large scale grants will be used to piloting initiatives such as Family and Early Childhood Centres, outdoor Early Learning and Childcare provision, and meal provision in Early Learning and Childcare services.
These are just some of the many investments which will be delivered under this NSO in the coming years to support Project Ireland 2040. Further details on projects, by NSO, can be found on the investment tracker on gov.ie/2040.
Flexible Work Practices
Questions (88)
Denis Naughten
Question:88. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the steps he is taking to achieve the 20% target for remote working across the public service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53579/21]
View answerWritten answers
You will be aware that the Government has committed in the Programme for Government to mandating public sector employers to move to 20% home and remote working.
In July, 2021, the Government approved a Policy Statement on Blended Working in the Civil Service. The Policy Statement commits the Civil Service to implementing a policy of blended working for the future that can provide flexibility to both employees and their employers in a manner that supports the continued delivery of high quality services to Government, the public and business while providing employees, where appropriate, with choice and opportunity.
Remote working in the Civil Service, post pandemic, will be facilitated on a blended basis. In this context, Officials in my Department have also been working with, and continue to work with employers across the Civil and Public Service to develop a Blended Working Policy Framework for the Civil Service with the aim of achieving the 20% target.
This Framework focuses on the longer-term approach to remote working in the sector and will assist in providing a consistent approach across the wider public sector. The Framework will be finalised over the coming weeks, following engagement with employee representatives. When this engagement has concluded and the Framework is agreed with the Civil Service Management Board, it will be rolled out to all civil service organisations. The Framework will inform the development of organisational blended working policies, which will be tailored to meet the specific requirements of each Department/Office.
Departmental Expenditure
Questions (89)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:89. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the estimate and outturn for each of the financial votes that he must account for in each of the past five years; the estimate for 2022; the percentage of each vote that is for capital or current expenditure; and the percentage each year spent on salaries and pensions within the current spend. [53523/21]
View answerWritten answers
The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the table at the link below. I note that the Deputy's office confirmed that this information was being sought in respect of the ten Votes in the D/PER Vote Group. The Deputy should note that the 2022 estimate figures are subject to change in the Revised Estimates.
Question No. 90 answered with Question No. 78.
National Development Plan
Questions (91, 101)
Joe Flaherty
Question:91. Deputy Joe Flaherty asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his assessment of the likely impact of the revised national development plan on employment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55880/21]
View answerJoe Flaherty
Question:101. Deputy Joe Flaherty asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his assessment of the likely impact of the revised national development plan on output and productivity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55881/21]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 91 and 101 together.
As part of the review of the National Development Plan my Department carried out work to examine the likely impact of the investment on employment, output and productivity. A summary of this work can be found in chapter two of the new NDP which is titled “Benefits of Investment”.
Using the Economic and Social Research Institute’s COSMO model, it was possible to project the economic impact of the planned increases in public investment.
The COSMO model projects that employment will increase by 3 per cent more by 2030 compared to a scenario where investment remained constant at 2021 levels. It is important to note that in 2021, core Exchequer capital expenditure in Ireland is €9.7 billion, the highest level in the history of the state. For the construction sector specifically, an assessment published alongside the NDP estimates that an annual average of up to 80,754 direct and indirect construction jobs will be sustained as a result of public investment over the period 2021 to 2030.
The COSMO model also projects that GDP or output at basic prices is set to increase by 1.6 per cent more by 2030 compared to a scenario where investment remained constant at 2021 levels. Potential output, which captures the underlying growth of productivity, is set to increase by approximately 2 per cent compared to the scenario where investment remained constant at 2021 levels. Furthermore, an analysis carried out by my Department estimates that, of the €165 billion investment plan, approximately €104 billion is related to direct spending on construction. This direct construction spending of €104 billion will in turn have a multiplier effect. An additional €60 billion of output is projected to be generated indirectly through the construction supply chain.
It is important to note that while these results are based on robust and sophisticated modelling, the results are accompanied by caveats and limitations.
Having said that, it is clear from the substantive analysis and evidence base created by my Department that we as a country can expect significant benefits, from the investment planned under the NDP over the coming years. Indeed, nine specific and tangible case studies of project recently completed throughout the country were also provided in chapter two of the NDP.
Coastal Erosion
Questions (92)
Louise O'Reilly
Question:92. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his responsibilities with respect to addressing issues of coastal erosion in Portrane and Fingal, County Dublin; the steps he has taken to assist residents at this location whose homes are under threat of collapsing into the sea due to coastal erosion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54214/21]
View answerWritten answers
The Office of Public Works (OPW) prime responsibility in this area is the management of flood risk.The OPW does not have responsibility for the preparation of a national coastal erosion strategy. The OPW's prime responsibility in this area is the management of flood risk. However, the Government has established an Inter-Departmental Group on Managing Coastal Change to scope out an approach for the development of a national co-ordinated and integrated strategy to manage the projected impact of coastal change to our coastal communities. The Inter-Departmental Group is jointly chaired by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the OPW and will bring forward options and recommendations for the Government to consider.
Coastal protection and localised flooding issues are matters, in the first instance, for each local authority to investigate and address. To assist Local Authorities in managing the coastline for coastal erosion, the OPW has undertaken a national assessment of coastal erosion (including erosion rates) under the Irish Coastal Protection Strategy Study (ICPSS) and the results of this study have been published on the OPW website. This data assists Local Authorities to develop appropriate plans and strategies for the sustainable management of the coastline in their counties.
In 2018, in response to serious coastal erosion problems at The Burrow, Portrane, Fingal County Council implemented temporary interim emergency measures to protect properties at risk. Funding was approved under the OPW Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme for these works.
Fingal County Council commissioned a Coastal Flood and Erosion Risk Assessment Report for the Rogerstown Outer estuary and an Options Report for addressing Coastal Erosion and Flooding at Portrane and Rush. I am advised that the Council, in consultation with relevant state agencies, has procured the preparation of the Rogerstown Estuary Coastal Flooding and Erosion Management Plan to address coastal change in the estuary. The environmental assessments and site investigations necessary to progress a scheme in this area are being undertaken, including public consultation. The Council plans to submit these proposals to An Bord Pleanála for planning approval during 2022.
I visited the area myself recently and met officials from Fingal County Council and local representatives. My Office continues to co-operate and assist Fingal County Council in every way and if a viable option is identified, the Council may submit a further application for funding to the OPW or other Government Departments as appropriate.
Departmental Budgets
Questions (93)
Sorca Clarke
Question:93. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of Departments that have requested to roll over all or part of their budget to 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55389/21]
View answerWritten answers
For the purposes of answering this question, I presume the Deputy is referring to the capital carryover mechanism, which is given statutory provision under Section 91 of the Finance Act, 2004.
Nineteen votes have made a request to carryover capital from their 2021 allocations into 2022.
Capital carryover is in place to assist Departments with the management of their capital spend across years to alleviate pressures and delays caused by timing issues and the impact of unexpected occurrences. This procedure is also designed to promote value-for-money in the use of capital funding, in particular by mitigating any incentive on the part of public bodies or Departments to spend any remaining capital allocation at end-year in an accelerated manner rather than surrender it to the Exchequer.
A maximum of 10% of the original capital allocation is permitted to be carried over into the following year, which allows for the capital funding to be drawn down in a considered and deliberate manner that maximises public benefit. This only applies to capital expenditure and not current expenditure.
Details of the amounts and the distribution of capital carryover into 2022 have not yet been finalised, but the particulars will be specified by subhead in the Revised Estimates Volume 2022 and in Schedule 2 of the Appropriation Act 2021, both of which will be published in December.
To allow Departments spend the capital carryover amounts in 2022, I will make a Ministerial Order specifying the definitive amounts of deferred surrender by subhead and will lay it before the Oireachtas, a resolution approving the draft deferred surrender Order must then be passed by Dáil Éireann.
I am subsequently required to sign the Order into effect no later than 31 March of next year. Once the Order is made, the carryover amounts become a first charge against the subheads concerned. If the carryover sums are not spent in the year of carryover, they must be surrendered to the Central Fund.
National Development Plan
Questions (94)
Richard Bruton
Question:94. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his views on whether the ambitious national development plan can be delivered smoothly; and the measures being put in place to remove obstacles which have delayed projects in the past. [55587/21]
View answerWritten answers
The publication of the National Development Plan (NDP) 2021-30 is accompanied by a continued focus on improving the delivery of investment under Project Ireland 2040. This will mean increasing the efficiency with which investment is delivered and achieving greater value for money within the available budget.
It is important to acknowledge that the majority of public investment projects are delivered on budget and on time and there is a high level of professionalism across the sectors. Reforms are ongoing in governance and broader capability to help ensure successful delivery.
Detailed analysis by my Department, supported by a cross-sectoral working group, has concluded that two new elements are needed to strengthen the assurance process for major public investment projects to provide more structured scrutiny.
These two elements are:
- The introduction of an independent external review of projects over €100m at two major decision gates in the project lifecycle and
- A Major Projects Advisory Group to support my Department in assimilating the outputs from the external reviews in quality assuring the strengthened process.
Membership of the Project Ireland 2040 Delivery Board, comprising Secretaries General of the major capital spending department is also being extended with up to 5 new members to bring additional expert knowledge, independent and regional perspectives, and an enhanced challenge function.
Departments, Agencies and Public Bodies are constantly seeking to ensure that they have the necessary resources in place in terms of staff, structures and skills to deliver on their commitments. There are a number of ongoing measures which seek to further develop the capacity of the public sector over the coming period. These include:
- the establishment of a Commercial Skills Academy in the Office of Government Procurement;
- the establishment of the Public Infrastructure Network (the InfraNet) for those involved in capital project delivery;
- expansion of the Irish Government Economic and Evaluation Service (IGEES);
- a range of reforms in the planning area including the establishment of a new Division of the High Court dealing with planning and environmental issues and
- the commissioning of the Supporting Excellence report through the EU Structural Reform Support Programme to review the capability of the public service to deliver the capital programme. On foot of one of the recommendations in that report, my Department convened an Action Team comprising of internal/external experts to tailor and set out a roadmap for implementation of the proposed solutions in more detail. The Supporting Excellence Action Team published their report alongside the National Development Plan 2021-30. The Action Team’s report includes 34 specific actions aimed at supporting excellence in boosting capability in individual sectors; from the centre, and improving co-ordination and guidance to support excellence on a system wide basis.
These reforms, alongside ongoing engagement with the construction sector regarding capacity and innovation, will help ensure the effective delivery of the NDP.
Flood Risk Management
Questions (95)
Brendan Smith
Question:95. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the recent discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland authorities in relation to flooding in County Cavan being caused by the River Erne; the action that can be taken to address same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55860/21]
View answerWritten answers
The OPW has an on-going relationship with the former Rivers Agency (now part of the Dept. for Infrastructure, Rivers, Northern Ireland) (DfI Rivers), which is the Competent Authority for the implementation of the 'Floods' Directive in Northern Ireland.
In 2009, the OPW and Dfl Rivers agreed to establish a Cross-Border Co-ordination Group to co-ordinate the implementation of the ‘EU Floods Directive’ across the border. This work was supported by a Cross-Border Technical Co-ordination Group. These groups have met on numerous occasions since to coordinate on the identification of Areas of Potentially Significant Flood Risk, to share information and agree approaches to the production of flood mapping in border areas and to coordinate on the identification of measures and the preparation of Plans.
The Erne Catchment was assessed under the OPW’s Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management Programme (CFRAM), in close co-operation with DfI Rivers. The study considered increasing watercourse conveyance of the Erne system to lower water levels as a measure to reduce flood risk. This study revealed that water levels in the majority of the Erne catchment in Ireland, remain unchanged regardless of any works that could be carried out in Northern Ireland.
DfI Rivers was represented throughout the CFRAM study on the relevant project steering, progress and stakeholder’s groups as well as on the National CFRAM Steering Group. DfI Rivers is currently a member of the National Floods Directive Coordination Group, which has met 6 times since November 2018. DfI Rivers and the OPW have undertaken information exchange at all deliverable stages, including delivering joint presentations to stakeholders and also joint attendance at relevant consultation events.
More general cross-border coordination has also been ongoing in the field of flood risk management through bilateral meetings of the two organisations for many years, through the Irish National Hydrometric Working Group and Joint National Committee of the International Hydrological Programme and the International Commission for Irrigation and Drainage that DfI Rivers are members of. This continued close co-operation has provided the opportunity for co-operation in areas such as flood forecasting and hydrometric monitoring.
The OPW does not have Arterial Drainage Schemes on the River Erne system in County Cavan and is not responsible for channel maintenance in the area in accordance with its statutory requirements under the Arterial Drainage Act, 1945. However, parts of the Erne Catchment are a Drainage District for which the local authority is responsible for ongoing maintenance.
I hope to meet with my counterpart in the Northern Ireland Assembly shortly to discuss matters of mutual interest relating to flood risk management, climate adaptation and coastal erosion over the entire island of Ireland.
National Development Plan
Questions (96)
James Lawless
Question:96. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an overview of NSO 4 of the National Development Plan 2021-2030; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55875/21]
View answerWritten answers
At the outset it should be noted that my Department, in carrying out its role in coordinating the NDP Review, does not consider the merit of individual projects or sectoral policy strategies as this is primarily a matter for individual Departments and Agencies. In the case of NSO 4 this would be the Minister for Transport.
However I would be happy to give an overview of this NSO which aims to enhance sustainable mobility throughout Ireland. Investing in high-quality sustainable mobility will improve citizens’ quality of life, support our transition to a low-carbon society and enhance our economic competitiveness.
The Department of Transport’s forthcoming National Investment Framework for Transport in Ireland (NIFTI) will set out the prioritisation for future investment in the land transport network to support the delivery of the NSOs. In addition, all five cities have developed, or are developing, metropolitan area transport strategies.
This NDP represents a step-change in the approach towards funding active travel in Ireland. Over the next 10 years approximately €360 million per annum will be invested in walking and cycling infrastructure in cities, towns and villages across the country, including Greenways.
BusConnects will overhaul the current bus system in all five cities, for example the proposal for BusConnects Cork has just been published for consultation with an increase of 36 per cent in bus services with shorter waits and more direct routes. Greater public transport services across rural Ireland are also planned through the Connecting Ireland bus programme.
The DART+ programme will be a cornerstone of rail investment within the lifetime of Project Ireland 2040 and represents the single biggest investment in the Irish rail network.
Phase 1 of Cork Commuter Rail Programme will cost €185 million and create a suburban rail network between Mallow, Midleton and Cobh by 2026. Funding provided over the next ten years will also support the further development of commuter rail in Galway and Limerick.
Metrolink is still scheduled to go to planning next year (2022) and is still scheduled to be constructed as soon as possible after that.
These are just some of the many investments which will be delivered under this NSO in the coming years to support Project Ireland 2040. Further details on projects, by NSO, can be found on the investment tracker on gov.ie/2040.
Capital Expenditure Programme
Questions (97)
Alan Dillon
Question:97. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of efforts to streamline the delivery of large-scale capital projects; his plans to ensure future projects are more likely to be delivered on a cost-effective and timely basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55885/21]
View answerWritten answers
The publication of the National Development Plan (NDP) 2021-30 is accompanied by a continued focus on improving the delivery of investment under Project Ireland 2040. This will mean increasing the efficiency with which investment is delivered and achieving greater value for money within the available budget.
It is important to acknowledge that the majority of public investment projects are delivered on budget and on time and there is a high level of professionalism across the sectors. Reforms are ongoing in governance and broader capability to help ensure successful delivery.
The revised NDP pledges to restructure the oversight and implementation of capital projects to strengthen scrutiny of major public investment proposals and to drive improved project performance and value for money.
In order to achieve this, my Department has put in place an External Assurance Process (EAP) to provide independent project scrutiny at key decision stages. It is a mandatory requirement for all funding departments to participate in the process for major projects over €100m. My Department has established a framework of suitable suppliers who can provide a range of independent specialist expertise, to conduct reviews at critical points in the decision-making and project development stages. This framework is in place and will be utilised once projects over €100m reach the key decision gates for Government approval.
The purpose of the EAP is to improve value for money and support funding departments and Government with expert insight relating to project risks, delivery feasibility, and robustness of costings, governance and procurement. The EAP for major public capital projects (projects which cost in excess of €100m) will focus on issues such as cost, risk and ability to deliver, at two key points in the project lifecycle, Decision Gate 1 (Approval in Principle) and Decision Gate 2 (Pre-Tender Approval).
To support the External Assurance Process a new Major Projects Advisory Group (MPAG) has been established to further strengthen project management. As a prerequisite to seeking Government approval for projects at the relevant decision gates, project proposals and external reviews will be scrutinised by the Advisory Group in advance of the decision to proceed. The new arrangements bring Ireland into line with leading international performers and meet a recommendation of the IMF’s Public Investment Management Assessment of Ireland.
These updates are due to be actioned imminently within November 2021 and have been discussed at Government in recent weeks.
Flood Risk Management
Questions (98)
Holly Cairns
Question:98. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when the flood relief scheme in Skibbereen, County Cork will be officially completed. [55905/21]
View answerWritten answers
The Skibbereen Flood Relief Scheme was substantially completed on 6th June 2019. All known defects arising from the construction have been remedied, with some delays as a result of Covid-19.
Planning for the operation and maintenance of the scheme is ongoing in conjunction with Cork County Council, who will act as agents of the OPW in carrying out the statutory operation and maintenance of the scheme. A small number of works to address elements identified during construction (and since completion of the scheme works), which were outside the main construction contract, remain to be completed and are being progressed in separate works packages.
In addition, some drainage works on Cork Road, which fall outside the remit of the main Scheme, have subsequently been identified as being necessary. Detailed assessments are currently being progressed by Cork County Council and consultants RPS, in conjunction with the OPW and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), to identify the most effective solution. The OPW is providing some funding under the Minor Works & Flood Mitigation Scheme towards these works. While work is currently ongoing on the development of a solution, the Council is not yet in a position to confirm the programme times in relation to planning approvals and construction.
A length of flood defence wall upstream of the footbridge in the Town centre remains to be constructed which will facilitate flood defence at a high level (for relatively rare floods) for the adjacent apartments and the town centre, as well as a proposed future public walkway, being proposed by Cork County Council. It is expected that cost for this remaining work will be shared between Cork County Council and the OPW.
Following the flood event that occurred in August 2020 in the Rossa Road area, the works which were ongoing at the time at Rossa Road have now been completed.
Cork County Council and their consultants have been undertaking assessments of the wider surface water drainage network in the area and these assessments are progressing. Discussions have taken place with a view to completing some remedial/improvement works with any further works to be progressed once the required reports or consultations are completed
National Development Plan
Questions (99)
Christopher O'Sullivan
Question:99. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an overview of NSO 7 of the National Development Plan 2021-2030; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55858/21]
View answerWritten answers
Again at the outset it should be noted that my Department, in carrying out its role in coordinating the NDP Review, does not consider the merit of individual projects or sectoral policy strategies as this is primarily a matter for individual Departments and Agencies.
With that point noted, I would be glad to give the Deputy an overview of the NSO 7 which is the delivery of Enhanced Amenity and Heritage. Ireland’s heritage – built, natural, cultural and linguistic, tangible and intangible – is of fundamental importance to all aspects of our society, our identity, our well-being and our economy.
Investment in our heritage has the dual benefit of protecting our natural and historic built environment while improving health, wellbeing and providing a catalyst for the economy through the development of recreational activities and the expansion of tourism as appropriate within heritage sites.
Sectoral strategies include: Heritage Ireland 2030; Investing in our Culture, Language and Heritage 2018-2027; Linking People and Places for the tourism sector; and, the National Sports Policy 2018-2027 for the sport sector.
Heritage investment priorities include: development of our natural parks and reserves, and safeguarding Ireland’s Historic Environment through the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and Historic Structures Fund.
Investment priorities include: the enhancement of sports facilities throughout Ireland with the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme and Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund; Digitisation of the National Collections; and, the National Cultural Institutions Investment Programme. Specific projects range from the refurbishment of the Crawford Art Gallery in Cork, to the development of world-class sporting facilities at the Sport Ireland Campus. Investment priorities for tourism in the short term will include the further development and promotion of the regional tourism experience brands such as the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
These are just some of the many investments which will be delivered under this NSO in the coming years to support Project Ireland 2040. Further details on projects can be found on the investment tracker on gov.ie/2040.