Written Answers Nos. 155-175
155. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the number of students who registered for the academic year in 2020-2021 but removed themselves from their course per institution in tabular form. [59546/21]
View answerThe information requested by the Deputy is not available. The key source of statistics is the HEA's student records system (SRS) which records enrolments as at March of every academic year, giving a single point of reference. Therefore data is not available on a national level on students who begin a course but leave before March. However representatives have stated that there was no significant difference in the number of deferrals or withdrawals in the 2020/21 academic year in comparison to previous years.
The HEA publishes reports on progression, which track the proportion of students registered in first year who progress to second year. The latest report, which tracks progression from the 2016/17 academic year to the 2017/18 academic year, reports a progression rate of 87%. The report can be found on the HEA's website at the following link: hea.ie/assets/uploads/2020/10/Progression-Report-October-2020-Final-301020.pdf .
156. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he plans to include homecare workers in his Department’s apprenticeship system in view of the homecare staffing crisis; if he has engaged with industry stakeholders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59675/21]
View answerThe National Skills Infrastructure provides a robust structure for engagement with sectors on areas of identified skills needs. There are a range of programmes in place to support the home care sector which are delivered across the further and higher education system.
At further education level, there are currently 89 courses leading to a Level 5 Certificate for Healthcare Assistants available nationally. Over 12,735 learners gained the Level 5 qualification during 2020 and 2021.
Apprentices are primarily employees who undertake a structured programme of on-the-job and off-the-job training to gain an internationally recognised qualification. The development of a new apprenticeship is employer-led, with consortia comprising employer groups and educational providers coming together to identify a skills need and appropriate apprenticeship response in their sector. A level 6 Advanced Health Care Assistant Apprenticeship was launched in 2021. It is managed by an apprenticeship consortium which includes representatives from the private healthcare, home and community care sector. 56 apprentices were registered on this two year apprenticeship as at the end of October 2021.
157. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the amount expended by his Department in each of the past five years to date in 2021 on lighting and heating costs in tabular form. [59704/21]
View answerThe Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science was formed on the 2 August 2020. Since that time my Department has occupied offices under a shared services agreement with the Department of Education.
The table below displays the total the Department has expended on electricity, gas and oil/lpg in the calendar year 2020 and to date in 2021. Please note that it is not possible to extrapolate the amount the Department expends on lighting or heating individually.
|
Year |
Amount |
|
2020 |
€59,139.91 |
|
2021 (to date – 30/11/2021) |
€52,618.77 |
158. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the steps he has taken to improve ventilation in the office buildings of his Department; if air cleaning and or purification systems have been installed in 2021; and if not, the plans to install same in 2022. [59722/21]
View answerThe refurbishment of Government offices is the responsibility of Property Management Services in the Office of Public Works, which acts as an agent for all Government Departments.
With regards to air cleaning and/or purification, I can confirm that no systems have been installed in my Department's office buildings in 2021 and there are no plans to install same in 2022.
I recognise the importance of ensuring adequate levels of ventilation of any indoor spaces either through natural (e.g. opening of windows and external doors) or mechanical means (e.g. central air-conditioning unit) if required.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) monitors are being utilised in some of my Department offices as a measure to confirm adequate levels of ventilation are being met and ensure a safe working environment. In addition, I can assure the Deputy that the prevailing public health advice guides any decisions in relation to on-site attendance at the Department's locations.
159. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Justice if her attention has been drawn to the service offered by company (details supplied) which is purportedly charging for free immigration service appointments and requesting the provision of highly sensitive data; the steps that are being taken to ensure timely access to appointments for applicants not availing of this service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59514/21]
View answerMy Department is aware that there have been issues in the past around the securing of registration appointments and has continually introduced software fixes designed to improve the system. These new measures have been partly successful in preventing the block booking of appointments by third party agents.
However, some third party agents continue to provide appointment booking services in return for payment on the basis that the person provides them with their personal details in advance. My Department strongly advises against this practice of providing sensitive and personal data to unregulated and unknown third parties.
Customers should continue to apply directly for appointments as they become available without charge, through the online appointments system: burghquayregistrationoffice.inis.gov.ie.
A new Immigration Service appointment and scheduling system, which will streamline and further improve the registration process, is currently being developed and is expected to be available to customers shortly.
Staff in the Registration Office have been working extra hours, including at weekends, to meet the demand for first-time registrations, renewal of permissions, and re-entry visas for minors. The public office in Burgh Quay is now open from 08:00 to 20:30 to provide assistance to customers wishing to register.
Currently, public health guidance determines the number of appointments that safely be facilitated each day in the public office. Almost 1,000 customers are being registered every week. Our staff continue to engage with stakeholders to understand how their needs can best be met. Since the introduction of a new online system for the renewal of permissions for Dublin-based customers in July 2020, over 98,000 applications have been processed.
160. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice when visa applications in the case of the family of a person (details supplied) will issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59522/21]
View answerThe persons referred to by the Deputy created an online Join Family (Non-EEA national) visa applications on 29 March 2021. The supporting documentation and fees were received on 10 May 2021 in the Abuja Visa Office.
Processing of these applications is ongoing at present. As each application is examined on it's own merits, my Department is unable to give an exact timeframe for their completion. However, the applicants can be assured that there will be no avoidable delay in finalising their application. They will be contacted in writing as soon as decisions have been reached.
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.
161. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Justice the number of fines that were issued by An Garda Síochána in each county for persons parking illegally in disability parking bays in 2019, 2020 and to date in 2021; the number of fines that were issued by An Garda Síochána in each county in each of these years that were paid and not paid, respectively; the number of court proceedings that were commenced in each county in each of these years against persons who did not pay the fines that they were issued with; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59601/21]
View answerI have requested information from the Courts Service and the Garda authorities. I will write to the Deputy directly with the information requested, when it is available.
|
2019 |
2020 |
2021* |
|
|
Cavan/Monaghan |
108 |
70 |
66 |
|
Clare |
36 |
32 |
27 |
|
Cork City |
257 |
180 |
218 |
|
Cork North |
76 |
77 |
50 |
|
Cork West |
41 |
48 |
46 |
|
D.M.R. Eastern |
36 |
36 |
27 |
|
D.M.R. North Central |
182 |
280 |
217 |
|
D.M.R. Northern |
117 |
142 |
346 |
|
D.M.R. South Central |
253 |
208 |
281 |
|
D.M.R. Southern |
90 |
100 |
75 |
|
D.M.R. Western |
246 |
242 |
290 |
|
Donegal |
136 |
83 |
41 |
|
Galway Division |
330 |
192 |
171 |
|
Kerry |
187 |
101 |
107 |
|
Kildare Division |
212 |
223 |
288 |
|
Kilkenny/Carlow |
59 |
66 |
95 |
|
Laois/Offaly |
99 |
54 |
100 |
|
Limerick |
407 |
300 |
394 |
|
Louth Division |
182 |
84 |
125 |
|
Mayo |
45 |
23 |
47 |
|
Meath Division |
29 |
51 |
41 |
|
Roscommon/Longford Division |
121 |
45 |
76 |
|
Sligo/Leitrim |
43 |
31 |
46 |
|
Tipperary |
90 |
73 |
91 |
|
Waterford Division |
174 |
173 |
221 |
|
Westmeath Division |
54 |
30 |
21 |
|
Wexford Division |
133 |
93 |
86 |
|
Wicklow Division |
86 |
62 |
69 |
|
3829 |
3099 |
3662 |
|
2019 |
2020 |
2021* |
|
|
Dublin Region |
602 |
684 |
766 |
|
Eastern Region |
575 |
519 |
560 |
|
North Western Region |
687 |
375 |
371 |
|
Southern Region |
714 |
545 |
525 |
|
2578 |
2123 |
2222 |
|
2019 |
2020 |
2021* |
|
|
Dublin Region |
232 |
260 |
264 |
|
Eastern Region |
184 |
179 |
138 |
|
North Western Region |
165 |
107 |
82 |
|
Southern Region |
269 |
188 |
179 |
|
850 |
734 |
663 |
|
Court Area |
No of Offences |
No of Persons |
|
AN DAINGEAN |
1 |
1 |
|
ARDEE |
2 |
2 |
|
ARKLOW |
2 |
1 |
|
ATHLONE |
6 |
6 |
|
ATHY |
3 |
3 |
|
BALLINA |
3 |
3 |
|
BALLINASLOE |
22 |
22 |
|
BANDON |
4 |
4 |
|
BANTRY |
1 |
1 |
|
BRAY |
9 |
9 |
|
CAHIRCIVEEN |
1 |
1 |
|
CARLOW |
9 |
9 |
|
CARRICK ON SHANNON |
6 |
6 |
|
CARRICK ON SUIR |
1 |
1 |
|
CARRICKMACROSS |
6 |
6 |
|
CASHEL |
5 |
5 |
|
CASTLEBAR |
9 |
9 |
|
CASTLEREA |
12 |
12 |
|
CAVAN |
3 |
3 |
|
CLIFDEN |
5 |
5 |
|
CLONAKILTY |
5 |
4 |
|
CLONMEL |
5 |
5 |
|
CORK CITY |
125 |
117 |
|
DROGHEDA |
36 |
36 |
|
DUBLIN METROPOLITAN DISTRICT |
256 |
253 |
|
DUNDALK |
46 |
46 |
|
DUNGARVAN |
1 |
1 |
|
ENNIS |
18 |
17 |
|
FERMOY |
9 |
9 |
|
GALWAY |
35 |
35 |
|
GOREY |
20 |
20 |
|
GORT |
1 |
1 |
|
KENMARE |
1 |
1 |
|
KILCOCK |
5 |
5 |
|
KILKENNY |
5 |
5 |
|
KILLALOE |
2 |
2 |
|
KILLARNEY |
15 |
15 |
|
KILRUSH |
4 |
3 |
|
LETTERKENNY |
22 |
21 |
|
LIMERICK |
138 |
138 |
|
LISTOWEL |
3 |
3 |
|
LONGFORD |
25 |
25 |
|
LOUGHREA |
6 |
6 |
|
MACROOM |
3 |
2 |
|
MALLOW |
23 |
21 |
|
MEATH |
11 |
11 |
|
MIDLETON |
2 |
2 |
|
MONAGHAN |
8 |
8 |
|
MULLINGAR |
5 |
4 |
|
NAAS |
44 |
44 |
|
NENAGH |
3 |
3 |
|
NEWCASTLE WEST |
11 |
10 |
|
PORTLAOISE |
11 |
10 |
|
ROSCOMMON |
3 |
3 |
|
SLIGO |
9 |
9 |
|
THURLES |
4 |
4 |
|
TIPPERARY |
14 |
13 |
|
TRALEE |
61 |
54 |
|
TUAM |
11 |
11 |
|
TUBBERCURRY |
1 |
1 |
|
TULLAMORE |
23 |
23 |
|
VIRGINIA |
1 |
1 |
|
WATERFORD CITY |
58 |
57 |
|
WESTPORT |
2 |
2 |
|
WEXFORD |
25 |
24 |
|
WICKLOW |
1 |
1 |
|
Total |
1,227 |
1,195 |
|
Court Area |
No of Offences |
No of Persons |
|
AN DAINGEAN |
1 |
1 |
|
ARDEE |
3 |
3 |
|
ARKLOW |
3 |
3 |
|
ATHLONE |
5 |
5 |
|
ATHY |
3 |
3 |
|
BALLAGHADERREEN |
1 |
1 |
|
BALLINA |
1 |
1 |
|
BALLINASLOE |
3 |
3 |
|
BALLYSHANNON |
2 |
2 |
|
BANDON |
2 |
2 |
|
BANTRY |
1 |
1 |
|
BRAY |
8 |
8 |
|
CARLOW |
7 |
7 |
|
CARRICK ON SHANNON |
1 |
1 |
|
CARRICKMACROSS |
6 |
6 |
|
CASTLEBAR |
3 |
3 |
|
CASTLEREA |
3 |
3 |
|
CAVAN |
4 |
4 |
|
CLIFDEN |
1 |
1 |
|
CLONAKILTY |
6 |
6 |
|
CLONMEL |
2 |
2 |
|
CORK CITY |
69 |
57 |
|
DONEGAL |
2 |
2 |
|
DROGHEDA |
24 |
24 |
|
DUBLIN METROPOLITAN DISTRICT |
122 |
118 |
|
DUNDALK |
11 |
11 |
|
DUNGARVAN |
3 |
3 |
|
ENNIS |
4 |
4 |
|
FERMOY |
1 |
1 |
|
GALWAY |
19 |
19 |
|
GOREY |
10 |
10 |
|
GORT |
1 |
1 |
|
KILKENNY |
3 |
3 |
|
KILLARNEY |
2 |
2 |
|
KILRUSH |
1 |
1 |
|
LETTERKENNY |
22 |
22 |
|
LIMERICK |
121 |
121 |
|
LISTOWEL |
3 |
3 |
|
LONGFORD |
17 |
16 |
|
LOUGHREA |
5 |
5 |
|
MACROOM |
1 |
1 |
|
MALLOW |
9 |
9 |
|
MEATH |
5 |
5 |
|
MIDLETON |
3 |
3 |
|
MONAGHAN |
2 |
2 |
|
MULLINGAR |
2 |
2 |
|
NAAS |
16 |
15 |
|
NENAGH |
6 |
6 |
|
NEWCASTLE WEST |
2 |
2 |
|
PORTLAOISE |
12 |
12 |
|
ROSCOMMON |
3 |
3 |
|
SLIGO |
3 |
3 |
|
THURLES |
3 |
3 |
|
TIPPERARY |
4 |
4 |
|
TRALEE |
24 |
24 |
|
TUAM |
2 |
2 |
|
TULLAMORE |
7 |
7 |
|
VIRGINIA |
1 |
1 |
|
WATERFORD CITY |
18 |
18 |
|
WEXFORD |
12 |
12 |
|
WICKLOW |
6 |
6 |
|
Total |
647 |
629 |
|
Court Area |
No of Offences |
No of Persons |
|
ARDEE |
1 |
1 |
|
ARKLOW |
2 |
2 |
|
ATHLONE |
3 |
3 |
|
ATHY |
2 |
2 |
|
BALLAGHADERREEN |
3 |
3 |
|
BALLINA |
1 |
1 |
|
BALLINASLOE |
3 |
3 |
|
BALLYSHANNON |
2 |
2 |
|
BANDON |
2 |
2 |
|
BRAY |
14 |
14 |
|
BUNCRANA |
4 |
4 |
|
CAHIRCIVEEN |
1 |
1 |
|
CARLOW |
9 |
9 |
|
CARNDONAGH |
1 |
1 |
|
CARRICK ON SHANNON |
4 |
4 |
|
CARRICK ON SUIR |
2 |
2 |
|
CARRICKMACROSS |
5 |
5 |
|
CASHEL |
1 |
1 |
|
CASTLEBAR |
4 |
4 |
|
CASTLEREA |
1 |
1 |
|
CAVAN |
4 |
4 |
|
CLIFDEN |
9 |
8 |
|
CLONAKILTY |
6 |
6 |
|
CLONMEL |
5 |
5 |
|
CORK CITY |
68 |
67 |
|
DOIRE AN FHEICH |
1 |
1 |
|
DONEGAL |
1 |
1 |
|
DROGHEDA |
14 |
14 |
|
DUBLIN METROPOLITAN DISTRICT |
210 |
206 |
|
DUNDALK |
14 |
14 |
|
DUNGARVAN |
2 |
1 |
|
ENNIS |
5 |
5 |
|
FERMOY |
4 |
4 |
|
GALWAY |
31 |
31 |
|
GOREY |
17 |
17 |
|
GORT |
2 |
2 |
|
KILKENNY |
5 |
5 |
|
KILLARNEY |
8 |
8 |
|
KILRUSH |
2 |
2 |
|
LETTERKENNY |
18 |
18 |
|
LIMERICK |
114 |
113 |
|
LISMORE |
1 |
1 |
|
LISTOWEL |
1 |
1 |
|
LONGFORD |
10 |
10 |
|
LOUGHREA |
3 |
3 |
|
MACROOM |
2 |
2 |
|
MALLOW |
22 |
21 |
|
MEATH |
5 |
5 |
|
MIDLETON |
3 |
3 |
|
MONAGHAN |
3 |
3 |
|
MULLINGAR |
1 |
1 |
|
NA GLEANNTA |
1 |
1 |
|
NAAS |
31 |
31 |
|
NENAGH |
3 |
3 |
|
NEWCASTLE WEST |
12 |
12 |
|
PORTLAOISE |
11 |
10 |
|
SLIGO |
5 |
5 |
|
THURLES |
2 |
2 |
|
TIPPERARY |
6 |
6 |
|
TRALEE |
18 |
18 |
|
TUAM |
2 |
2 |
|
TULLAMORE |
14 |
13 |
|
VIRGINIA |
3 |
3 |
|
WATERFORD CITY |
82 |
81 |
|
WEXFORD |
15 |
15 |
|
WICKLOW |
7 |
7 |
|
YOUGHAL |
1 |
1 |
|
Total |
869 |
857 |
162. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Justice if she will introduce legislation to enable a pilot scheme for the mandatory polygraph testing of high-risk sex offenders as has been introduced in the greater Manchester area of the United Kingdom; if her Department has given any consideration to such a scheme prior to now; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59624/21]
View answerLast month I announced planned new legislation to strengthen the management and monitoring of sex offenders in the community. The Sex Offenders (Amendment) Bill 2021 includes a number of amendments to the sex offenders register notification requirements, including a prohibition on convicted sex offenders engaging in certain forms of employment.
The main features of the Bill are:
- to change the sex offenders register notification requirements for sex offenders, including a reduction of the notification period from seven to three days;
- to explicitly provide for the court to prohibit a sex offender from working with children and vulnerable adults;
- to provide powers to the Garda Síochána to take fingerprints, palm-prints and photographs to confirm the identity of the person;
- to create a legislative basis for the assessment and management of risk posed by sex offenders across teams involving probation officers, Gardaí and Tusla;
- to allow the Garda Síochána to disclose information relating to persons on the sex offender register, in extenuating circumstances (for example, where there is a serious threat to public safety);
- to allow the Garda Síochána to apply for the discharge and variation of a sex offender order;
- to allow for electronic monitoring of sex offenders to assist in ensuring an offender’s compliance with a sex offender order or post release supervision order.
The Bill fulfils commitments in Justice Plan 2021 and in the Programme for Government to update the Sex Offenders Act 2001 to ensure that convicted sex offenders are effectively managed and monitored, and the publication of the Bill is an action in the Second National Strategy for domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.
It is my intention that this Bill will be enacted in the coming months.
A public consultation process formed an integral part of my Department’s review of the Sex Offenders Act 2001 and informed the development of the proposals in the Sex Offenders (Amendment) Bill. In that context, the High Level Group which produced and published a discussion document on the management of convicted sex offenders was not in favour of the use of polygraphs for monitoring/risk assessment purposes as views in other countries were divided on the practice. The group also had concerns of a practical and legal nature.
Consequently, polygraph testing is not included in the current proposals. However, the matter will be kept under review in the light of experience of the implementation of such measures in the UK.
163. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Justice the timeline for the completion of the special Afghan admission programme. [59677/21]
View answerI share the Deputy’s concerns for the Afghan people and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.
Ireland has acted swiftly and compassionately to demonstrate our support and solidarity with the Afghan people. My Department continues to work closely with colleagues in the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to ensure a coordinated national response.
As the Deputy is aware, the Government has approved my Department's proposal for an additional initiative: the special Afghan Admission Programme, which will provide places for up to 500 Afghan family members to travel to Ireland. Each applicant will have an opportunity to nominate up to four family members who are currently residing in Afghanistan or who have fled to neighbouring territories and whom they consider would be especially at risk in terms of their freedom and safety.
My Department intends to open the Programme for applications during mid-December.
A key focus of the Programme will be on establishing the identity of those intending to come to Ireland. Therefore, in advance of the Programme’s launch date, applicants and beneficiaries should focus on ensuring they have as many identity documents as possible.
The creation of this Programme is unique to date in the EU and was welcomed by the UNHCR as a very welcome commitment by Ireland that will bring much needed solace to Afghans here who are worried about their relatives abroad.
In the meantime, I want to assure the Deputy that all current immigration avenues remain open for new applications, including visa and family reunification applications. More than 750 Afghan nationals have already been granted permissions to reside in the State so far this year and my Department will continue to process any new applications received speedily and sympathetically.
164. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice the amount expended by her Department in each of the past five years to date in 2021 on lighting and heating costs in tabular form. [59707/21]
View answerThe amount spent by my Department on lighting and heating costs in each of the past five years to date in 2021 is set out in tabular form below. I wish to advise the Deputy that these costs relate to 12 premises which are used by my Department.
|
Year |
Electricity |
Gas |
Heating Oil |
Other Fuels |
Total |
|
2017 |
558,062 |
93,907 |
17,870 |
866 |
670,706 |
|
2018 |
559,535 |
79,987 |
18,177 |
11,067 |
668,766 |
|
2019 |
495,239 |
57,064 |
6,912 |
12,124 |
571,339 |
|
2020 |
465,017 |
129,909 |
7,659 |
7,768 |
610,354 |
|
2021 |
426,805 |
87,846 |
5,826 |
10,608 |
531,085 |
165. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice the steps she has taken to improve ventilation in the office buildings of her Department; if air cleaning and or purification systems have been installed in 2021; and if not, the plans to install same in 2022. [59725/21]
View answerI wish to advise the Deputy that the Health and Safety team in my Department has conducted Ventilation Risk Assessments in all office locations, in accordance with the Government’s Work Safely Protocol, and has identified and implemented controls to support both naturally and mechanically ventilated offices.
Occupied offices within my Department are monitored regularly to ensure that capacity levels and ventilation systems remain appropriate. Although air cleaning or purification systems have not been identified as control requirements in office environments to date, limited numbers of units have been provided in certain laboratory and other technical environment settings, in 2021.
My Department remains committed to following any changes to public health advice and guidance in regard to this matter.
166. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the progress to date that has taken place in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59764/21]
View answerThe person referred to is the subject of a Deportation Order made on 1 February 2019. However, they made a request on 23 October 2020, under section 3(11) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), to have that Order revoked and this will be considered as soon as possible. The decision will be that the existing Deportation Order will be either ‘affirmed’ or ‘revoked’.
As a person subject to a Deportation Order, they are legally obliged to comply with any reporting obligations placed on them by the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) during this time.
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.
167. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Health if a mandated single point of contact within the Department was appointed to coordinate preparations with the Decision Support Service for the aspects of the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 that the Department is responsible for delivering; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59570/21]
View answerThe Department of Health strongly supports the implementation of the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 which aims to ensure person-centred human rights and equality in decision-making, in line with best international standards. Policy responsibility at Departmental level rests in the main with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.
It is acknowledged that implementation of the 2015 Act has operational implications across health and social care. The HSE National Office of Human Rights and Equality Policy was established to support health and social care services to prepare for the commencement of the 2015 Act and builds capacity for the provision of safe, person-centred care based on respecting the individual rights of each person.
There are no plans to appoint a single contact point within the Department of Health in advance of implementation of the 2015 Act. The Department is a member of an inter-Departmental Steering Group, chaired by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, for the establishment of the Decision Support Service. In addition, Department officials from a range of policy areas across health and social care also engage with the Decision Support Service and with their counterparts in the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to progress this important work.
The HSE is a member of the inter-Departmental Group through the HSE National Office of Human Rights and Equality Policy.
168. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to any perceived increase in cancer diagnosis during the Covid-19 pandemic. [59768/21]
View answerFrom the outset of the pandemic, great focus has been placed by the health services on encouraging people to come forward. It is important that anyone with concerns about cancer visit their GP, who will arrange appropriate follow-up care. Our cancer diagnostic and treatment services are open, and our healthcare staff will provide any necessary care.
The number of people coming forward with cancer concerns decreased significantly during Covid Wave 1 from March to May 2020. However, we have seen a recovery in the figures since that time:
- the total number of GP e-referrals to cancer Rapid Access Clinics for January-October this year stands at 127% of the activity for the corresponding period in 2019;
- the total number of patients seen across all Rapid Access Clinics for January-September 2021 stands at 99% of the corresponding period in 2019; and
- cancers diagnosed in Rapid Access Clinics from January-September 2021 are at 96% of the comparable 2019 figure.
An allocation €12m was made this year to ensure that our cancer services continue to recover from the disruption caused by Covid-19. This funding is being used to address backlogs, extend clinic times, provide additional clinics, increase diagnostic capacity and provide locum/temporary support.
In addition, an extra €20 million was allocated for the continued implementation of the National Cancer Strategy in 2021, as well as €10 million for cancer screening. This is having a significant impact on access to cancer diagnostics, treatment and supports.
169. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health when his Department will allow the use of antigen tests for entry to facilities which require an EU Digital COVID Certificate similar to the system across Europe; and the reason antigen tests are not being permitted for use as entry to facilities. [59766/21]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware a COVID-19 pass, based on certification of vaccination or recovery, is required for indoor hospitality, cinemas, theatres and events.
The current high level of COVID-19 infection and the dominance of the significantly more transmissible Delta variant poses a very substantial threat, particularly to those who are not fully protected through vaccination. Public health advice remains that those who are not fully vaccinated or have immunity from infection should avoid congregated indoor settings for their own and others safety.
Government keeps all measures under review on an ongoing basis.
170. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Health the number of commissions of investigation currently ongoing; the duration of each commission of investigation; the deadline for each commission of investigation; and the actual and projected cost of each commission of investigation. [54098/21]
View answerThe Commission of Investigation (Certain matters relative to a disability service in the South East and related matters) (“The Farrelly Commission”) ongoing at present, commenced work on 15 May 2017. The Commission was established to investigate the care and protection of “Grace” (pseudonym) and others in a former foster home in the South East, which has been the subject of abuse allegations. There are two phases to the Commission with the completion of Phase 1 projected for July 2022. The Farrelly Commission’s costs to end of October 2021 are €7,172,604.82. This figure includes the Commission’s legal team, staff, administrative and accommodation costs and third party legal costs.
171. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Health the amount of funding allocated to the advertising of abortion services and the My Options HSE number that provides free and confidential information and counselling to persons experiencing an unplanned pregnancy subsequent to the enactment of the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018; and the person or body that has received this funding. [55852/21]
View answerAs the Deputy’s question relates to a service area, I have referred this question to the HSE for direct response.
172. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health if the review and update of the carer’s strategy has commenced; the new strands that are proposed for inclusion; the timescale for the review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57716/21]
View answerIreland’s National Carers' Strategy is a cross-departmental strategy, designed around a core vision which recognises and respects carers as key care partners who are supported to maintain their own health and well-being, care with confidence and who are empowered to participate as fully as possible in economic and social life.
Under the Strategy, a range of measures have been introduced or extended to support family carers in recent years. Some of the measures introduced include free GP cards for persons in receipt of the carers allowance, increased training and online supports for family carers and 27,000 hours of emergency respite funded through the HSE in the event that a care giver can no longer continue in their caring role.
Most recently, a Carers Needs Assessment will be piloted this year which will increase our knowledge of carers’ needs and €2million was allocated in Budget 2021 to further the National Carers’ Strategy in 2021 with a focus on improving equity of access to supports for carers.
My Department remains committed to progressing the implementation of the National Carers Strategy and to engaging with key stakeholders in relation to our progress in this area, including relevant government departments, representative organisations and those who advocate on behalf of family carers.
173. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the way he plans to deal with the serious escalation of drug abuse in the capital and all other cities, towns and communities throughout the country; if an awareness campaign is required to highlight the dangers in this trend; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57919/21]
View answerGovernment policy in relation to drug and alcohol addiction services is set out in the national drugs strategy, Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery-a health led response to drug and alcohol use in Ireland 2017-2025.
Earlier this year the Health Research Board published the National Drug and Alcohol Survey 2019/20, which is funded by the Department of Health and managed by the Health Research Board. The survey provides information on alcohol, tobacco, and drug use amongst the general population in Ireland.
The survey findings show that, overall, the use of illegal drugs has remained at a similar level to that recorded in the 2014/15 survey, while an increase was seen in the use of cocaine and ecstasy. Cannabis, while being the most prevalent illegal drug in Ireland, has also shown a decrease from 6.5% to 5.9% when compared to the 2014/15 survey. A significant decrease in the instances of Cannabis Use Disorder has also been recorded.
Our national drug strategy recognises the need to strengthen early harm reduction responses to current and emerging trends and patterns of drug use. The recently completed mid-term review of the strategy shows significant progress in implementing the action plan for the period 2017 to 2020, with only a small number of the 50 actions outstanding. Access and availability of drug services have been improved, particularly services for women, people who are homeless, and those with heroin addiction. A new clinical programme for dual diagnosis has been developed and the Government is championing an alternative health-led approach for the possession of drugs for personal use.
As part of the mid-term review six strategic priorities have been identified for the remaining years of the strategy until 2025. These will strengthen the health-led approach to drug use, as agreed in the Programme for Government, and align with the EU Drugs Strategy and Action Plan.
These priorities will protect children and young people from drug use and the associated harms and enhance community care for people who use drugs by providing health and social care services at the community level to meet identified health needs.
To support the implementation of the strategic priorities, I provided additional funding of €6m for new health measures in Budget 2022.
174. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Health if he has received a business proposal for the new elective hospital in County Cork; and if not, when he expects to receive same. [55908/21]
View answerThe provision of additional elective care delivery capability in Cork, Galway, and Dublin is a stated Government policy objective.
The Elective Hospitals Oversight Group, under the joint governance of the HSE, Department of Health and Sláintecare, is guiding the development of the elective hospitals. The development of three elective hospitals will require significant infrastructural investment and therefore the Oversight Group is following the process outlined in the updated Public Spending Code (PSC), setting out the value for money requirements for the evaluation, planning and management of large public investment projects.
The PSC is designed to ensure that investment decisions are underpinned by a clear policy rationale, and that costs are well understood. In 2019, the PSC was updated and introduced a new project lifecycle, tightening the arrangements for project decision-making, and clarifying the roles of the parties involved including the responsibilities for Sponsoring Agencies and Approving Authorities.
All capital development proposals must progress through several approval stages, in line with the new lifecycle approach of the updated PSC, including detailed appraisal, planning, design and procurement before a firm timeline or funding requirement can be established.
The specific requirements that must be included in a business case at the various stages of the PSC, are detailed at www.gov.ie/en/publication/public-spending-code/.
A Preliminary Business Case (PBC) for new elective hospitals, including in County Cork, was submitted to the Department of Health in September 2021 and is currently being reviewed within the Department in line with the requirements of the PSC. If technically compliant and approved, the PBC will be further reviewed by the Department of Expenditure and Reform. Subject to all PSC requirements at Gate 1 being met, a Memorandum for Government seeking approval-in-principle to proceed to the next stage of the PSC could be brought forward in the near future.
175. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Health the reason the motorised transport grant and mobility allowance schemes are still discontinued eight years after their review was recommended; the reason no scheme has been implemented to replace them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53064/21]
View answer189. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Health his plans to introduce a new motorised transport grant; if so, the timeframe for its introduction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59549/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 175 and 189 together.
The Government decided to close the Motorised Transport Grant and Mobility Allowance administrative Schemes in 2013. This was on foot of the reports of the Ombudsman in 2011 and 2012 regarding the legal status of both Schemes, in the context of the Equal Status Acts.
The Government also decided to continue payment of the monthly Mobility Allowance on an interim basis, to the 4,700 people who were in receipt of the Mobility Allowance at the time the Scheme was closed.
Other transport supports available to people with disabilities include;
- The Free Travel Scheme operated by the Department of Social Protection;
- The Revenue Commissioners' Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Scheme; and
- Measures funded under the Department of Rural and Community Development CLAR Programme, to provide grants to voluntary organisations providing transport for people with significant mobility issues.
At the whole of Government level, the National Disability Inclusion Strategy 2017-2021 sets the overall framework for the equal participation of people with disabilities in society. Under the Strategy, the Department of Transport, has responsibility for the continued development of availability of accessible public transport and is committed to the continued development of accessible public transport in recognition of the importance of such services to the lives of people with disabilities.
Work is continuing on the policy proposals for the provision of transport supports for people with disabilities. Recent developments which will impact on the policy options include the following:
- The ongoing progress by the Department of Transport in providing accessible public transport nationally and that Department's review of active travel and public transport policy, including accessible public transport;
- The Department of Social Protection Cost of Disability Study which will inform policy direction in relation to the provision of adequate supports to meet the needs of people with disabilities, including transport costs;
- The Working Group established under Action 104 of the National Disability Inclusion Strategy which was established to lead a review of all Government funded transport and mobility schemes for people with disabilities; and
- The review of the Disabled Drivers and Passengers (Tax Concessions) Scheme by the Department of Finance.
The Government is committed to finding a long-term, equitable solution, which meets the transport needs of those people with disabilities, with the most significant challenges.
