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Wednesday, 11 May 2022

Written Answers Nos. 55-75

Mother and Baby Homes Inquiries

Questions (55)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

55. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Taoiseach if he will provide an update on the release of a report in advance of its publication (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23587/22]

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Written answers

Prior to the consideration by the Government of the Final Report of the Commission of Investigation on Mother and Baby Homes, certain information relating to matters in the report was disclosed in a newspaper report. In that context, I requested that an investigation be carried out.

I also asked that the investigation be done in the context of a broader consideration of the arrangements in place for the management of documents for Government meetings as this bears directly on the protection of their confidentiality.

The investigation is being undertaken by a senior official in my Department and the process is ongoing. I am not in a position at present to tell the Deputy when it may be concluded.

Rental Sector

Questions (56)

Richard Bruton

Question:

56. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Taoiseach if he will indicate the trend in the private rents sub-index within the CPI over each of the past five years; the way in which data on the average rents paid by tenants is collected by the CSO, and the way that differs from the data on rents collected by the Residential Tenancies Board which only looks at properties in which new rentals have commenced; and if he will indicate whether further research on rental trends is underway. [23778/22]

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Written answers

The latest inflation figures published by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) show that the private rents sub index of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 9.2% in the twelve months to March 2022. The corresponding annual percentage changes, in the year to March, for each of the last five years are set out in Table 1 below.

Table 1: Annual Percentage change in the Private Rents Sub index of the Consumer Price Index, March 2018 to March 2022

Annual Percentage Change - CPI Private Rents Sub index

Year to

% Change

March 2018

6.4

March 2019

5.6

March 2020

3.1

March 2021

-1.4

March 2022

9.2

The private rents subindex in the CPI is compiled from a monthly survey of a sample of letting agents. The survey requires the letting agents to supply the average actual rent achieved for selected property types and the CSO calculates the index by comparing the same property types over time. The information collected from the CSO relates to new and existing tenancies. On the other hand, the RTB measures new and renewed tenancies registered on their national database and calculates the index using a hedonic regression method.

In 2018, the CSO commissioned the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) to conduct a review of the methodologies used to measure the cost of housing, both owner occupied and rented, in official statistics. Funding for this work was provided by the Irish Research Council. The ESRI research team published three papers from this work between January 2020 and September 2021, which reviewed the existing approaches taken by the CSO in estimating the cost of housing in the CPI; examined the administrative data sources on rents available from the RTB; and examined the statistical implications and current feasibility of adopting a rental equivalent approach to measuring owner occupied housing in the CPI. The papers published by the researchers were as follows:

“A review of the methodologies used in compiling owner occupiers’ housing indices”, ESRI Working Paper: www.esri.ie/publications/a-review-of-the-methodologies-used-in-compiling-owner-occupiers-housing-indices

“Estimating the cost of Irish housing for the CPI: A rental equivalence approach”, ESRI Working Paper: www.esri.ie/publications/estimating-the-cost-of-irish-housing-for-the-cpi-a-rental-equivalence-approach

“Rental equivalence, owner occupied housing, and inflation measurement: Microlevel evidence from Ireland” - Journal Article in Real Estate Economics: External link: onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1540-6229.12360/

Wildlife Conservation

Questions (57)

Holly Cairns

Question:

57. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Taoiseach if his Department and public bodies and agencies that operate under his remit have policies in place to install artificial structures that provide shelter and habitat space for wild species such as, but not limited to, insect hotels, bat boxes, nesting towers and beehives [23864/22]

View answer

Written answers

There are no policies currently in place to install artificial structures as described either in my Department or The National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO), the only body under the aegis of my Department.

Employment Rights

Questions (58)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

58. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that workers in a company (details supplied) are not receiving the correct rate of pay as set down by the Employment Regulation Order for the contract cleaning Industry. [23577/22]

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Written answers

The Employment Regulation Order (ERO) for the Contract Cleaning Sector came into effect in December 2020. The ERO fixes minimum rates of pay and conditions of employment for workers in the contract cleaning sector and employers in those sectors are obliged to pay wage rates and provide conditions of employment not less favourable than those prescribed.

An employer of workers to whom an ERO applies must keep records of wages, payments, etc., and must retain these records for three years.

The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) is an office under the remit of my Department and the WRC can provide information to persons with questions or complaints regarding their rights under employment law.

Any breaches of an Employment Regulation Order may be referred to the WRC for appropriate action.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (59)

Niamh Smyth

Question:

59. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the case of a person case (details supplied) will be reviewed; if clarity will be provided on this matter in relation to this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23647/22]

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Written answers

On 19 March 2020, the European Commission adopted a Temporary Framework to enable Member States to use the full flexibility foreseen under State aid rules to support the economy and help overcome the extremely difficult situation triggered by the Coronavirus outbreak. The COVID-19 Credit Guarantee Scheme (CCGS) has been developed in accordance with the European Commission’s State Aid Temporary Framework. It has been approved by the European Commission on the basis that it will be used by viable businesses for working capital/liquidity requirements and investment purposes to meet the challenge of a changed working environment arising from COVID-19.

The CCGS was developed as a time-bound loan scheme with a state guarantee to provide loans to meet working capital and liquidity requirements. Loans can also be used for investment purposes as businesses deal with a changing working environment as a consequence of the pandemic. Typically loans for investment purposes relate to purchasing new equipment, a refit of premises or investment in a new product or process.

The scheme is available to a wide range of sectors with a small number of exceptions which includes the financing of real estate activity. The details provided in relation to this case refer to a loan application for the redevelopment of commercial premises to residential apartments for renting purposes. Such activity is beyond the scope and purpose for which the scheme was developed.

This Department plays no role in the decision-making process in relation to loan applications under the CCGS. Officials are in regular contact with the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI), the operator of the scheme, on matters which come within the remit of the Department.

The business owner referred to in this correspondence has been in contact with individuals within his bank. They have reviewed the initial decision and have correctly stated that this particular application falls outside the parameters of the CCGS. He could look to apply for a loan through their standard non-government supported facilities. If he was unsuccessful in this application he could look to have it appealed within the bank's own internal systems. If this appeal is unsuccessful, he may also consider a further appeal to the Credit Review Office (CRO). The CRO helps SMEs who have had an application for credit of up to €3 million declined or reduced by the main banks, and who feel that they have a viable business proposition. This is a strictly confidential process between the business, the Credit Review and the bank. Further information is available at www.creditreview.ie/.

Wildlife Conservation

Questions (60)

Holly Cairns

Question:

60. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department and public bodies and agencies that operate under his remit have policies in place to install artificial structures that provide shelter and habitat space for wild species such as, but not limited to, insect hotels, bat boxes, nesting towers and beehives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23853/22]

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Written answers

The Department is dedicated to contributing positively towards the critically important climate action agenda. My Department has an active internal “Green Team” with over 30 staff spanning across the Department and its Offices, which include the Companies Registration Office, the Office of Director of Corporate Enforcement, the Intellectual Property Office of Ireland, the Labour Court and the Workplace Relations Commission.

In terms of the internal day-to-day Departmental operations, it is through the Green Team, with functional responsibility at Principal Officer level, that the Department acts to promote and encourage climate action awareness to all staff under the four pillars of energy reduction, water conservation, waste management and ecology/biodiversity. The Green Team produces a range of climate action information for staff which include webinars, expert speakers and advice for staff to support the climate agenda, both in the workplace and in staff’s homes and their local communities. It also runs an annual “Green Month” in support of various initiatives, the most recent one being held in April 2022.

However, as accommodation for my Department and its Offices is provided by the Office of Public Works (OPW) in eleven buildings across the country which are either State owned or leased by the OPW on our behalf, there are a range of factors that place some restrictions on the types of biodiversity projects that can feasibly be supported across our occupied buildings.

Typically, the Department and its Offices are in shared accommodation, either with other Government Departments, public bodies or the private sector. Therefore, the day-to-day operations across each building must be mindful of local fire regulations, national health and safety legislation, other tenants and the wishes of the local landlords in the buildings that are not State owned.

Nonetheless, specifically to encourage biodiversity, two beehives, with native Irish honeybees (Apis Mellifera) were installed on the roof of the Department’s headquarters at 23 Kildare Street, Dublin 2 in May 2021.

Other biodiversity projects supported by the Green Team in our O’Brien Road, Carlow location through their signing up to the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan included:

- Establishing a tomato garden;

- Reducing mowing of any grass areas;

- Wild flower sowing;

- Ceasing the use of insecticides on the grounds of the building

During April 2021 & 2022, the Green Team’s ‘Seed Capital Initiative’ provided seeds to staff to encourage planting at home and in their local communities.

We continue to actively engage directly with, and receive welcome advice from, the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications in relation to the development of a Departmental Climate Action Mandate for completion later in 2022. As part of this process we are exploring what new biodiversity initiatives, over and above those already implemented, that could feasibly be initiated over the period ahead.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Questions (61)

Cormac Devlin

Question:

61. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the supports that are in place to assist the events and exhibition industry given the re-allocation of large event space over the coming months and given that the industry has yet to recover or fully re-open after the severe impact of the pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23870/22]

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Written answers

There have been a wide range of measures taken by government to provide support for business during the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic. These supports include access to appropriate and affordable finance, and the Government, working with agencies, the banking sector and alternative finance providers offers additional targeted supports where there are market failures. Further information can be found on my Department’s website at: enterprise.gov.ie/en/what-we-do/supports-for-smes/access-to-finance/.

The COVID-19 Credit Guarantee Scheme makes €2 billion in lending available for working capital and investment purposes, the Brexit Impact Loan Scheme makes up to €330 million in lending available to Brexit impacted SMEs and the Future Growth Loan Scheme provides for €800 million in lending to SMEs for support strategic investment purpose.

In March 2021, I launched the Local Enterprise Office “Green for Micro” programme which offers green transition advice and technical support to a wide range of micro-enterprises with 10 or fewer employees, including those operating in the hospitality sector. This support is free of charge for eligible enterprises and represents the potential for increased efficiencies within companies that adopt these principles.

The Trading Online Voucher Scheme (TOVs) offers a voucher of up to €2,500 to help businesses develop their online trading capability, including training sessions. Funding can be used towards adding payment facilities or booking systems to their website or developing new apps for their customers. The Scheme is open to a broad base of businesses with fewer than 10 employees, including those operating in the hospitality sector.

The recently launched Climate Toolkit 4 Business is an important resource for SMEs and micro enterprises. The Toolkit directs users to advice, grants and other resources available from the LEOs, EI, SEAI, Irish Water, EPA, IDA and others.

In relation to supports for the events and exhibition sector the Government and my colleague, Minister Catherine Martin T.D., Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media responded to the COVID-19 crisis by establishing a Tourism Recovery Taskforce and Recovery Oversight Group, the introduction of business continuity supports, the Events Sector Covid Support Scheme (ESCSS) And the ESCSS Phase 2 as well as a range of horizontal measures to support tourism businesses survive the pandemic and reopen in a safe and sustainable manner.

Further funding will also be invested in domestic marketing and festivals, the Digital that Delivers investment programme, skills development and staff retention and tourism product development (for the delivery of enhanced visitor experiences in line with the objectives of the National Development Plan 2021-2030). For further information on supports for this sector I would refer you to the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.

Regional Aid

Questions (62)

Duncan Smith

Question:

62. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount of funding provided to each county under the Regional Aid Map 2014 to 2022 per year in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23891/22]

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Written answers

I have requested that the relevant State Agencies provide this information and I will forward this to the Deputy once received.

Regional Aid

Questions (63)

Duncan Smith

Question:

63. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason that the Athy Municipal District, County Kildare was removed from the new Regional Aid Map; if this decision will be reviewed after the next census; the measures that are in place or that will be put in place to support enterprise and job creation in the municipal district by Government following this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23892/22]

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Written answers

At the outset, it should be pointed out that the Regional Aid Map is decided by the European Commission not the Government. In negotiations with the Commission, the Government sought the inclusion of much more of the country. We will do so again at the mid-term review in 2023 when the data from the census is available.

Regional Aid does not involve any European money or grants and should not be confused with structural funds which Ireland qualified for in the past. Rather it delineates the areas where Regional Aid can be granted by the Irish exchequer, based on specified criteria.

The Regional Aid Map for every Member State must be developed within the criteria laid down in the European Commission’s Regional Aid Guidelines, issued in April 2021. Ireland’s economy has shown strength and improvement since 2014. As a consequence, the European Commission proposed to reduce the overall coverage of Ireland’s Map, as a proportion of total population, to 25.6%. Following intensive negotiations with the Commission, this was increased to 35.9%. This is a reduction of almost one third from the 51.3% which applied previously. This adjustment was part of a European wide review and Ireland was not unique in facing a reduction in coverage. With a more limited population coverage, and the strict criteria set by the Commission, it was important that the optimal allocation was achieved.

To achieve this, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, working with stakeholders, including Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and Údarás na Gaeltachta, developed a multi-dimensional model that provided a depth of analysis within the Commission’s set criteria. This was an objective and impartial approach, though final approval of the Map, for Ireland and for all Member States, rests with the European Commission. The Commission announced its decision on 22 March 2022.

To meet the Commission’s current criteria for inclusion on the Regional Aid Map, the area must be in a NUTS 2 or NUTS 3 region that has a GDP per capita below or equal to the EU-27 average, or an unemployment rate above or equal to 115 % of the national average. Under European law, Athy is the in Mid-East NUTS 3 Region, alongside Wicklow, Meath and Louth, which does not meet this criterion.

Alternatively, an area could form part of a contiguous area that is proven to be undergoing major structural change or in serious relative decline. A contiguous area cannot be formed by areas selected based on different criteria of paragraph 175 of the Regional Aid Guidelines; the entirety of a contiguous area must be proposed and justified under a common criterion.

Therefore, Athy Municipal District could not be assessed independently from the surrounding area. The Commission’s criteria are assessed at NUTS level and apply only to contiguous areas. Therefore, some Municipal Districts with specific challenges, may appear to be eligible, but they do not meet the criteria.

LEAs not included on the map can still access all other types of State Aid. Only approximately 7.4% of Ireland’s State Aid is in the form of Regional Aid and other aid remains available to enterprises, irrespective of their location. For example, enterprises in Athy LEA and other areas not included on the Regional Aid Map may still avail of Research, Development and Innovation Aid, Environmental Aid, Training Aid, and Consultancy Aid, under the General Block Exemption Regulation. Aid under the De Minimis Regulation, i.e., aid to an undertaking of less than €200,000 in any rolling 3-year period, offers a further avenue, particularly for smaller sized grants and investments to small enterprises.

While the Regional Aid Map coverage has reduced, Enterprise Ireland offers are still available to SMEs in all areas of the country, including Athy. Measures include:

- the Capital Investment Initiative (CII) Fund.

- the Job Expansion Fund (JEF); and

- tailored expansion projects (i.e., Company Development).

As a result, the ability of SMEs in Athy Municipal District to avail of capital and employment support from Enterprise Ireland has not changed.

In March, we launched the Mid-East Regional Enterprise Plan (REP) to 2024. The REP brings together the three counties of Kildare, Wicklow and Meath, to work together with all the business development agencies, LEOs, local authorities, education systems and chambers of commerce. All of these bodies are involved in promoting job creation in County Kildare.

Strategic Objective 1 is to position the Mid-East as the primary location for the development of the agri food hubs and under that strategic objective, action 2 is the development of the Athy Food, Drink and Skills Innovation Hub.

I know this project is long awaited, but the plan re-commits to it and states that it will create a number of much needed impacts:

- Opportunity to strategically grow businesses to work from or progress from the Hub. There will be an ambition to support them to progress to HPSU status, achieve internationalisation and growth

- Job creation activity for the Athy local economy and the wider region.

- Give a clear recovery pathway to food and hospitality sector through economic stimulus, education and innovation, skills attainment and job paths for learners.

- Youth and long term unemployed will engage in learning opportunities that will allow them to either enter the workforce for the first time or return to the workforce after a lengthy absence, in the food and hospitality sector.

- Act as a centre of excellence in supporting innovative companies across the region.

- Develop Kildare’s first social enterprise zero waste café as an exemplar climate action hospitality hub.

- Through the Discovery Centre, provide community and schools outreach education in healthy eating, career pathways (emphasis on non-formal routes) and sustainable living.

Industrial Development

Questions (64)

Duncan Smith

Question:

64. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of IDA promoted visits to south County Kildare in the past six years; the location and date of such visits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23893/22]

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Written answers

IDA Ireland publishes, on a quarterly basis, data on site visits by county only. Site visits are visits by potential investors who may be looking at creating or establishing an investment and who are in the process of evaluating the total value proposition that Ireland and its regions and counties presents for that investment.

Potential clients may visit more than one county and may return to a location more than once. These figures represent individual visits and are therefore not indicative of the number of companies that have visited.

Site visit figures for County Kildare from 2016 to Quarter 1 2022 are shown below:

Year

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

Q1 2022

Year

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

Q1 2022

Kildare

8

10

8

14

8

7

1

IDA Ireland developed a suite of digital content which can be accessed by potential investors in response to COVID-19. IDA Ireland migrated many of its business development and client engagement activities to digital platforms. These were developed further to put in place an E-Site Visit experience for potential investors. The figures above for 2020- Q1 2022 show the total of in-person and E-visits.

Enterprise Ireland is also actively supporting companies in all parts of Kildare. For example, the Deputy might be aware that Athy Community Enterprise Co Ltd has been awarded over €300,000 in funding from Enterprise Ireland. Enterprise centres support start-ups, micro-enterprises and small business by providing physical accommodation to companies plus delivery of capability building supports to their tenants, and their local business community, through the provision of structured enterprise training courses. These centres also provide physical space for future work initiatives, such as, remote working. In providing these services, enterprise centres are critical regional infrastructures supporting entrepreneurship, start-up companies and small enterprise to grow and scale.

In March, Minister English launched the Mid-East Regional Enterprise Plan (REP) to 2024. The REP brings together the three counties of Kildare, Wicklow and Meath, to work together with all the business development agencies, LEOs, local authorities, education systems and chambers of commerce. All of these bodies are involved in promoting job creation in County Kildare.

Strategic Objective 1 is to position the Mid-East as the primary location for the development of the agri food hubs and under that strategic objective, action 2 is the development of the Athy Food, Drink and Skills Innovation Hub.

I know this project is long awaited, but the plan states that within 3 years it will create a number of much needed impacts:

- Opportunity to strategically grow businesses to work from or progress from the Hub. There will be an ambition to support them to progress to HPSU status, achieve internationalisation and growth

- Job creation activity for the Athy local economy and the wider region.

- Give a clear recovery pathway to food and hospitality sector through economic stimulus, education and innovation, skills attainment and job paths for learners.

- Youth and long term unemployed will engage in learning opportunities that will allow them to either enter the workforce for the first time or return to the workforce after a lengthy absence, in the food and hospitality sector.

- Act as a centre of excellence in supporting innovative companies across the region.

- Develop Kildare’s first social enterprise zero waste café as an exemplar climate action hospitality hub.

- Through the Discovery Centre, provide community and schools outreach education in healthy eating, career pathways (emphasis on non-formal routes) and sustainable living.

Regional Aid

Questions (65)

Duncan Smith

Question:

65. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason that the Graigcullen, Portarlington Municipal District, County Laois was removed from the new Regional Aid Map; if this decision will be reviewed after the next Census; the measures that are in place or that will be put in place to support enterprise and job creation in the municipal district by Government following this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23894/22]

View answer

Written answers

At the outset, it should be pointed out that the Regional Aid Map is decided by the European Commission not the Government. In negotiations with the Commission, the Government sought the inclusion of much more of the country including Graiguecullen-Portarlington. We will do so again at the mid-term review in 2023 when the data from the census is available.

Regional Aid does not involve any European money or grants and should not be confused with structural funds which Ireland qualified for in the past. Rather it delineates the areas where Regional Aid can be granted by the Irish Exchequer, based on specified criteria.

The Regional Aid Map for every Member State must be developed within the criteria laid down in the European Commission’s Regional Aid Guidelines, issued in April 2021. Ireland’s economy has shown strength and improvement since 2014. Consequently, the European Commission proposed to reduce the overall coverage of Ireland’s Map, as measured by proportion of total population, to 25.6%. Following intensive negotiations with the Commission, this was increased to 35.9%. This is a reduction of almost one third from the 51.3% which applied previously. This adjustment was part of a European wide review and Ireland was not unique in facing a reduction in coverage. With a more limited population coverage, and the strict criteria set by the Commission, it was important that the optimal allocation was achieved.

To achieve this, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, working with stakeholders, including Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and Údarás na Gaeltachta, developed a multi-dimensional model that provided a depth of analysis within the Commission’s set criteria. This was an objective and impartial approach, though final approval of the Map, for Ireland and for all Member States, rests with the European Commission. The Commission announced its decision on 22 March 2022.

Due to the significant decrease in coverage to 35.9%, several Local Electoral Areas (LEAs) identified by the multi-dimensional model could not be included. We sought to include these areas and explored all options with the European Commission, but it was not possible to include them. However, they have been recognised and listed as reserves, including Graiguecullen-Portarlington, and these areas will be kept under close review with a view to including them as part of a mid-term review of the Map, which will take place in 2023.

Laois has benefited from the inclusion of two out of the three LEA’s within the 2022 map. According to the POBAL deprivation index, Graiguecullen-Portarlington is the least disadvantaged LEA of the three LEAs in County Laois. While Graiguecullen-Portarlington LEA is not included in the Map there is scope for positive ‘spill-over’ effects for the Graiguecullen-Portarlington LEA, e.g., residents of Graiguecullen-Portarlington LEA can benefit from employment opportunities in neighbouring areas such as Portlaoise.

LEAs not included on the map can still access all other types of State Aid. Only approximately 7.4% of Ireland’s State Aid is in the form of Regional Aid and other aid remains available to enterprises, irrespective of their location. For example, enterprises in Graiguecullen-Portarlington LEA and other areas not included on the Regional Aid Map may still avail of Research, Development and Innovation Aid, Environmental Aid, Training Aid, and Consultancy Aid, under the General Block Exemption Regulation. Aid under the De Minimis Regulation, i.e., aid to an undertaking of less than €200,000 in any rolling 3-year period, offers a further avenue, particularly for smaller sized grants and investments to small enterprises.

While the Regional Aid Map coverage has reduced, Enterprise Ireland offers are still available to SMEs in all areas of the country, including Graiguecullen-Portarlington. Measures include:

- the Capital Investment Initiative (CII) Fund.

- the Job Expansion Fund (JEF); and

- tailored expansion projects (i.e., Company Development).

As a result, the ability of SMEs in Graiguecullen-Portarlington LEA to avail of capital and employment support from Enterprise Ireland has not changed.

Energy Policy

Questions (66)

Eoin Ó Broin

Question:

66. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when the implementation report on the 2016-2019 Energy Poverty Strategy will be available and the status of the new energy poverty strategy. [23604/22]

View answer

Written answers

Energy poverty, or fuel poverty is influenced by a person’s income, the energy efficiency of their home, and the cost of the energy they use in their home. In 2020, the ESRI estimated that 17.5% of households in Ireland could be at risk of energy poverty. Lower income households living in inefficient homes are more at risk of energy poverty when energy prices increase, as the proportion of their income needed to meet their energy needs increases.

The Government has put a range of policies and measures in place to support households who are at risk of energy poverty. These measures supplement lower income households through the Fuel Allowance, the Household Benefits Package and other payments, as well as providing free energy efficiency upgrades through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland schemes and the Social Housing retrofitting programme. This year, 58% (€203 million) of the total Government retrofit budget of €352 million will be spent on dedicated energy poverty retrofit supports and local authority retrofits. Recognising the unprecedented rise in energy prices facing people the Government has also put in place a number of additional measures earlier this year including:

- an increase in the weekly rate of the Fuel Allowance by €5 to €33 a week so that €914 was paid to eligible households over the course of the winter, an additional lump-sum payment of €125 was paid to the 370,000 households receiving the fuel allowance in mid-March.

- the Electricity Costs Emergency Benefit Payment of €176.22 (excl. VAT) credited to their accounts.

- the new National Retrofit Schemes include specific measures to support householders in taking actions to reduce energy bills, including up to 80% grant funding for low-cost, high-impact measures such as attic insulation.

To further manage the impact of recent price increases the Government, in the recently published National Energy Security Framework, has also announced a number of additional measures for households and businesses including:

- A new targeted €20 million scheme for the installation of Photo Voltaic (PV) panels for households that have a high reliance on electricity for medical reasons.

- A package of measures to enhance protections for financially vulnerable customers and customers in debt in the electricity and gas sectors.

- A review of the price-drivers behind electricity and natural gas bills (including network costs) with a view to mitigating cost increases for consumers and businesses in the near term.

- The continuation of the excise duty reduction on petrol, diesel and marked gas oil until the Budget in October 2022.

- A reduction in VAT from 13.5% to 9% on gas and electricity bills from the start of May until the end of October.

- An additional payment of €100 for all recipients of the Fuel Allowance.

- The reduction to zero of the Public Service Obligation (PSO) levy on electricity bills.

In addition to the measures outlined above, the electricity and gas markets, which are overseen by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities, have a range of protections against disconnections in place for consumers. In brief, priority customers cannot be disconnected, while vulnerable customers are protected over winter months from 1 November to 31 March each year. Additionally, under the supplier led voluntary Energy Engage Code, suppliers will not disconnect a customer who is engaging with them at any time. Accordingly, any customers who are experiencing difficulties with their Bills should engage with their supplier to discuss the various options and assistance available.

A research network on fuel poverty chaired by the Economic and Social Research Institute was established in 2021. The Group consists of representatives from the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, the Department of Social Protection, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland and the Central Statistics Office. The Group has commenced examination of the data and metrics needed to improve existing measures for fuel poverty in Ireland. The main goal is to provide insights that enhance policy design to protect vulnerable households. A work programme, proposed outputs and timelines will be agreed and finalised shortly.

A review of the implementation of the Strategy to Combat Energy Poverty will be completed in the coming weeks to inform future policy in this area.

Energy Infrastructure

Questions (67)

Eoin Ó Broin

Question:

67. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will consider introducing a RESS auction for multi-day energy storage. [23605/22]

View answer

Written answers

Within the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS), some storage potential has already been catered for in the design of the RESS 2 Terms and Conditions. Under RESS 2, a ‘Hybrid’ category has been included which provides support for co-located renewable generators and storage facilities. 'Eligible technologies' include provisions for: wind and solar; wind and storage; and solar and storage. These variations were based on the pipeline of projects under the grid offer process, the Enduring Connection Policy, ECP 2.1 and ECP 2.2. Other variations will be considered for future auctions.

The variability challenge posed by renewable energy creates the need for a range of technological interventions. Storage technology, alongside demand-side response and interconnection, will be key as Ireland seeks to increase its share of renewable electricity up to 80 per cent by 2030.

The Climate Action Plan 2021 recognises the important role of energy storage, including long-duration storage, in facilitating the transition to higher levels of renewable energy on the system. The Department for the Environment, Climate and Communications has committed to developing a storage policy that supports the 2030 CAP targets with a decision to be published early next year. In combination, the CRU will be reviewing the regulatory treatment of storage, including licensing, charging and market incentives, which is to be completed by the end of 2023.

Electricity Grid

Questions (68)

Eoin Ó Broin

Question:

68. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will provide an update on Eirgrid’s TSO transmission system operator; and when it will be in a position to recognise battery storage. [23606/22]

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Written answers

EirGrid is the designated Transmission System Operator (TSO) and its role includes the operation, maintenance and development of the electricity transmission network in Ireland. The question raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for EirGrid.

Government does not have any role in the delivery of electricity infrastructure on the ground. This is consistent with the 2012 Government Policy Statement on the Strategic Importance of Transmission and Other Energy Infrastructure which states: ‘The Government does not seek to direct EirGrid and ESB Networks or other energy infrastructure developers to particular sites or routes or technologies’. The question relates to operational matters in which I have no role.

The Climate Action Plan 2021 recognises the important role of energy storage, including battery storage, in facilitating the transition to higher levels of renewable energy on the system. The Department for the Environment, Climate and Communications has committed to developing a storage policy that supports the 2030 CAP targets with a decision to be published early next year. In combination, the CRU will be reviewing the regulatory treatment of storage, including licensing, charging and market incentives, which is to be completed by the end of 2023.

EirGrid has reported that a number of battery projects have been contracted via two mechanisms: SEM Capacity Auctions and DS3 Systems Services. These routes offer different but essential services to the power system on the island of Ireland. For example, the provisional SEM Capacity Auction Results for the T-4 Capacity Auction in respect of Capacity Year 2025/2026, which took place in March 2022, included 227MW of qualified battery storage.

Renewable Energy Generation

Questions (69)

Matt Carthy

Question:

69. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the targets that are in place with regard to facilitating households to sell renewably generated electricity back to the grid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23648/22]

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Written answers

The Government approved the Micro-generation Support Scheme in December last year which provides supports for up to 380MW of micro-generation by 2030, primarily for self-consumption. To facilitate export from micro-generators, on 15 February this year I signed the Regulations (SI 76 of 2022) that transpose Articles 21 and 22 of the recast Renewable Energy Directive which brings these Articles into force. These Regulations create an obligation on suppliers to offer the Clean Export Guarantee (CEG) tariff to new and existing micro-and small-scale generators. I am aware that some suppliers have already advertised their CEG tariffs.

Under the Climate Action Plan 2021, Action 105(e), the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) is to complete the implementation of an interim micro-generation system and market change solution which is on target to be completed in Q2 2022. This solution will facilitate households to be remunerated by their supplier for excess renewable electricity they provide to the grid via the CEG tariff.

The CRU published a decision on an interim enabling framework for the CEG which outlines the arrangements for the implementation of the CEG, including eligibility criteria and remuneration methodology. Micro-generators who wish to become eligible should register for an export grid connection from ESB Networks (Micro-Generators (esbnetworks.ie)) and have a smart meter where applicable (Smart Meter Upgrade FAQs (esbnetworks.ie)).

The CRU has decided that suppliers will set their individual CEG tariffs on a competitive market basis but is not setting a date or deadline for the timing of the first payment. Once eligible, customers can expect an initial payment or credit from their suppliers from 1 July depending on billing cycle.

National Broadband Plan

Questions (70)

Aindrias Moynihan

Question:

70. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when fibre broadband will be available for a home (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23739/22]

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Written answers

The Question refers to premises located in the AMBER area on the National Broadband Plan (NBP) High Speed Broadband Map which is available on my Department's website www.broadband.gov.ie. The AMBER area represents the area to be served by the network to be deployed under the NBP State led intervention.

I am advised by National Broadband Ireland (NBI) that, as of 29 April 2022, almost 323,000 premises have been surveyed or have survey underway, with almost 175,000 premises constructed or under construction across all counties. NBI has also advised that over 65,500 premises are now available to order or pre-order a high-speed broadband connection across 22 counties, with over 47,100 premises passed across 21 counties and available for immediate connection. In County Cork surveying is complete in the Deployment Areas of Templemartin, Tallow, Kanturk, Fermoy and Clonakilty, main works are underway in the Deployment Areas of Midleton and Youghal and network build is complete in the Deployment Area of Carrigaline. To date over 39,100 premises in County Cork have been surveyed, with over 17,600 premises under construction or complete and over 8,900 premises now available to order or pre-order.

Further details are available on specific areas within County Cork through the NBI website which provides a facility for any premises within the intervention area to register its interest in being provided with deployment updates through its website www.nbi.ie. Individuals who register with this facility will receive regular updates on progress by NBI on delivering the network and specific updates related to their own premises as works commence. NBI has a dedicated email address, reps@nbi.ie, which can be used by Oireachtas members for specific queries.

Broadband Connection Points (BCPs) are a key element of the NBP providing high speed broadband in every county in advance of the roll out of the fibre to the home network. As of 29 April 2022, 574 BCP sites have been installed by NBI and the high-speed broadband service will be switched on in these locations through service provider contracts managed by the Department of Rural and Community Development for publicly accessible sites and the Department of Education for school BCPs. In County Cork 23 BCPs have been installed to date including Aubane Community Centre, which is approximately 1.8km from the premises referred to. Further details can be found at nbi.ie/bcp-locations/.

In County Cork 45 schools have been installed by NBI to date for educational access. My Department continues to work with the Department of Education to prioritise schools with no high speed broadband, within the Intervention Area. Further details of schools in scope are available on the NBI website at nbi.ie/primary-schools-list/.

Wildlife Conservation

Questions (71)

Holly Cairns

Question:

71. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his Department and public bodies and agencies that operate under his remit have policies in place to install artificial structures that provide shelter and habitat space for wild species such as, but not limited to, insect hotels, bat boxes, nesting towers and beehives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23854/22]

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Written answers

My Department's office in Booterstown has an insect hotel. As part of the preparations for the relocation of my Department's HQ next year, staff in my Department have established a number of subgroups to look at different aspects of the move. One such group deals with biodiversity which is developing a work programme which includes the establishment of a biodiversity team in the office. I welcome this initiative which I'm confident will develop projects that address biodiversity loss, help our environment, natural heritage and also our individual quality of life. The information requested in relation to the agencies under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each agency. The Department will request the relevant bodies to reply directly to the Deputy with the information requested in respect of their organisations.

Post Office Network

Questions (72)

Holly Cairns

Question:

72. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications his views on designating the post office network as the offline gateway of choice for citizens availing of State services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23879/22]

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Written answers

The Government is committed to a sustainable An Post and post office network as a key component of the economic and social infrastructure throughout Ireland. The company fully understands the Government position and a sustainable, viable and customer-focused post office network is a key strategic priority for the company.

The Government recognises the importance of the high value and high quality post office network to our citizens right across the country, as well as the central and trusted role of postmasters in our communities. An Post, including through the post office network provides important services to its customers and it is contracted to provide key Government services to citizens.

The work of the interdepartmental group, which was established to consider the feasibility of the new Government services, is being considered at present and the report of the Group will be brought to Government when all options have been considered. While decisions relating to the network are matters for the board and the management of the company, they continue to engage with the IPU on operational matters. The Government is committed to ensuring that An Post continues to play a vital role.

Officials in my Department have ongoing engagement with the company, with other Departments and with key stakeholders to explore all options, in line with this commitment.

Driver Licences

Questions (73)

Anne Rabbitte

Question:

73. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport the options that are available to a person (details supplied) whose drivers’ licence expired in 2016; the processes in place in such circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23524/22]

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Written answers

An Irish driving licence can be renewed up to ten years after the date of expiry of the licence, provided that the applicant meets the relevant requirements. Details are available from the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) and on its website at www.ndls.ie.

A driving licence may be renewed in person, by appointment only, at any NDLS centre. A MyGovID account or email address is not required to make an appointment. Appointments can be made by phone on 0818 919 090.

Driver Test

Questions (74)

Anne Rabbitte

Question:

74. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport the options that are available to an older person who is unable to use a computer if they intend to sit the RSA driver theory test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23526/22]

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Written answers

Under legislation, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is the body responsible for the operation of the Theory Test and I am aware that the Driver Theory Test provider offers various options to accommodate candidates who may require special assistance to take their test.

For instance, they offer a voice-over option whereby the questions and answers are read out to the candidate over the headphones. Additional time is also allowed for the candidate to take the test. There is also a reader recorder service whereby a staff member will read the questions and answer options to the candidate and record their answers on screen. Other services offered include dyslexia support, professional and Irish Sign Language (ISL) video clips, or ISL interpreters.

To avail of extra time or a reader recorder service during their test, a candidate must write to the Driver Theory Test Service with medical evidence on official headed paper from a school, doctor or professional person confirming the assistance the candidate requires. This should be posted to: Driver Theory Test, PO Box 15, Dundalk, Co. Louth.

Translator support tests are available by special arrangement at certain centres. This support is for candidates who do not speak or understand English. Evidence of a candidate’s requirement for this service must be provided.

Test Day Assistance and Support Services must be booked in advance by calling 0818 606 106 or via the postal application form available for download at theorytest.ie/general-information/test-day-assistance-support/.

Fire Safety

Questions (75)

Róisín Shortall

Question:

75. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the concerns raised by members of the Dublin Airport Environmental Working Group at its meeting of 17 November 2021 in relation to the use of aqueous film forming foam at Dublin Airport given the introduction of the Convention through Regulation EU 2019/1021 and Regulation EU 2020/784; the assurances that his Department can give that the Dublin Airport Authority has been in full compliance with the regulations pertaining to the use of the foam; the assurances that can be given by his Department that the foam has not entered the local water supply systems in recent years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23554/22]

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Written answers

I wish to thank the Deputy for her question. I understand that concerns relating to the use of firefighting foams or Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), were raised at a meeting of the Dublin Airport Environmental Working Group which took place in November 2021. The daa has advised my Department that these concerns were immediately addressed by the daa, with representatives in attendance confirming full compliance with all relevant regulations with respect to AFFF. This remains the case and daa has advised my Department that it has continued to maintain full compliance with the regulations, as stated, to this date.

Firefighting foams used by the Dublin Airport Fire Service comply with all restrictions relating to PFAS (Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), including Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) and their use is continually monitored to ensure best practice and adherence to relevant regulatory guidance.

Watercourses that run-off from Dublin airport have undergone regular sampling and analysis for many pollutant types, including specific monitoring programmes at appropriate locations and/or in response to new classifications of chemicals or pollutants. As an emerging pollutant of interest to European Environment Agency (EEA), PFAS related monitoring at appropriate locations is ongoing. daa have advised that results from these monitoring programmes will continue to be shared with the local community at regular intervals.

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