Written Answers Nos. 100-124
101. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact the Croke Park agreement hours are no longer in place; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that for many employees in the public sector, the overtime entitlement is based on the rules in place prior to these hours ending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48393/22]
View answerThe Croke Park and Haddington Road Agreements provided for a range of significant reform and productivity measures including the introduction of additional working hours for public servants.
Section 4.2 of Building Momentum provided for the establishment of an independent body to assess issues arising in addressing the Haddington Road Hours and to make appropriate recommendations to be applied equitably across all affected grades, groups, categories and sectors.
In this context an Independent Body chaired by Kieran Mulvey, former head of the Workplace Relations Commission, and comprising of employer, trade union representatives and independent members was established in early 2021. The Independent Body was tasked with reporting their findings by end 2021.
This was an important and complex piece of work as the commitment to review this issue was a key provision of Building Momentum.
The Independent Body recommended that:
- The working week will be restored to pre-Haddington Road Agreement levels in the majority of relevant civil and public service employments with effect from July 1 2022. However, standardised minimum full-time working week of 35 hours net will apply across the public service.
- Working hours for any grade will not be less than the level that applied prior to the HRA.
The Independent Body did not make a recommendation in respect over the overtime divisor and stated that “the Body is of the view that issues relating to the divisor used in the calculation of overtime payments should be a matter for further discussion between the parties to the Building Momentum Agreement, and does not propose a recommendation regarding overtime divisors in the context of this Report”.
Government approved the Independent Hours Body Report last April.
102. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the contact he has had with an organisation (details supplied) in relation to re-internment of the Invincibles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48275/22]
View answerI am aware of the campaign led by the National Graves Association to exhume and reinter the five people known as the Invincibles in Glasnevin Cemetery as, over the last two years, my office has received a number of representations from various Local Authorities and indeed from the National Graves Association themselves.
Requests such as this are of a very sensitive and delicate nature and there are a number of matters to consider, both in terms of the significant practicalities and the ethical issues involved.
While the general area of the site of the graves in Kilmainham is relatively well known, there is no detailed plan showing definitively exactly where individuals were interred. It is likely that the remains of other executed prisoners may be located with those of the Invincibles at or near their burial site.
Even were it to be precisely located, there would be practical issues involved in positively identifying the individual remains. It is understood from contemporaneous accounts that after execution, the remains were buried in quicklime and this would render an exhumation and positive identification very difficult, if not impossible.
Kilmainham Gaol is a National Monument and an iconic and much respected site in the context of the national independence struggle in particular. The fact that it is also a grave location adds a significant resonance to its penal and historical significance and there is a strong opposing view to the current campaign that believes that the grave should not be disturbed and the remains should be left within the confines of the Monument.
Finally, the Office of Public Works would clearly understand that any move to undertake an exhumation and re-interral project would certainly not be undertaken unilaterally and would have to be considered and approved in the first instance as a policy matter, which is outside our remit. OPW will, of course, work with all relevant Government Agencies to reach a conclusion to this matter.
103. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of his plans in response to a spending review (details supplied) published by his Department; his views on whether the findings of the review would enable staff to avoid travel to and from the city centre on a daily basis and if there would be consequential savings in a reduced leasehold portfolios in the city centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48280/22]
View answerThe Deputy will have heard my reply to PQ48285, and the reply contains much of the same information.
The OPW has a significant and diverse office accommodation portfolio distributed throughout the country, comprising of 890,488 square meters at year end 2021, and including a range of differing types of office provision, from prestige heritage buildings to brand new grade A office accommodation.
The issue of whether to buy, build or lease properties is a complex one and is subject to various factors, including: the availability of capital funding; the availability of suitable buildings or sites; the prevailing market conditions at the time; the urgency and scale attached to the accommodation request, and the duration of the requirement.
Due to the range of accommodation requirements across Government, there is a variety of solutions depending on the circumstances and it is important to keep a dynamic portfolio that has flexibility to meet the evolving long term needs of Government.
The OPW’s preference is that functions of infrastructural importance or viewed as a long-term commitment should, where possible, be accommodated in State-owned properties. This would include headquarters for central Government Departments, State security services, etc.
The overall conclusion that can be drawn from the recently published Spending Review Paper is that, when the State is acquiring significant property for office accommodation, the new build or purchase options should be considered on a case by case basis in accordance with the parameters of the Public Spending Code, particularly if there is a long-term requirement, subject always to the prevailing market conditions and available funding.
To meet its strategic objectives of modernising the estate and making it more efficient, OPW constantly look to appraise the potential of the existing Owned state accommodation portfolio for future redevelopment of sites, refurbishment opportunities and potential asset recycling prospects. This is done in parallel and in conjunction with ongoing appraisal, monitoring and managing of opportunities which arise from within the Leasehold Estate. The extensive research undertaken for the Review provides the OPW with an important evidence base on which to ground decisions on the overall development of the portfolio into the future.
Under the National Development Plan (2021 – 2030), the OPW has been successful in securing funding for a broad range of projects, which includes a number of office developments that will further enhance the balance of leased and owned accommodation. One of the major capital projects that is being funded by the EU within Ireland’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), is the deep energy retrofit of the state owned Tom Johnson House in Dublin 4, which will reduce the buildings primary energy use by 75% and become the new headquarters of the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications. OPW will continue to appraise development and redevelopment opportunities on existing state owned sites with a view to seeking additional funding for investments that will meet the operational needs of client departments and agencies in modern energy efficient buildings.
In addition to this, the OPW have an ongoing programme of fabric upgrades and energy efficiency retrofit projects in central government buildings to enhance the overall condition and performance of our buildings. This will ensure the enhanced performance of existing buildings and avoid the need to replace these buildings through the commercial office market.
The Blended Working Policy Framework for the Civil Service was published in March 2022, and Departments and Agencies are currently in the process of finalising their Departmental Blended Working Policies. Inevitably, the decisions currently being formulated across each Department and Agency on patterns of attendance in the office will have a direct impact on how the physical office space will be utilised into the future. The Chairman of the OPW has recently written to all Secretary Generals across Government asking them to consider the use of their existing accommodation in the context of long term Blended Working. Departments are being asked to account for the full optimisation of existing accommodation in the context of their Blended Working policies.
Lastly, the Spending review paper notes the opportunity to acquire properties at a lower rent in locations outside of the Central Business District. Each property acquisition is looked at on a case by case basis, and in the context of the business needs of each Client Department. If the Client Department has confirmed that it is feasible to locate the accommodation requirement outside of the Central Business District, OPW will examine this opportunity and assess available properties in the context of the Public Spending Code.
In conclusion, the Spending Review paper provides an evidence base for long term decision making on the future direction of the office accommodation portfolio. Every requirement will continue to be assessed on a case by case basis in the context of the business needs of client departments, the urgency and scale attached to the accommodation request, the overarching OPW Estate Strategy, the duration of the requirement, and the availability of capital funding.
104. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the amount of funding that has been allocated from the carbon tax to the agricultural sector to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48263/22]
View answerThe Programme for Government recognises the special economic and social role that agriculture plays in Ireland, but also commits to the creation of schemes that will encourage and incentivise farmers to farm in a greener and more sustainable way. This is with the aim of developing a sustainable Irish agricultural sector that protects the environment and aligns with emerging consumer sentiment, while benefiting farmers and rural communities. The Programme for Government commits to the allocation of €1.5bn in projected carbon tax receipts over the next ten years for this purpose.
In Budget 2020 €3m in carbon tax funding was allocated to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine for Green Agricultural Pilots. This additional funding was allocated to enable the establishment of pilot, locally-led schemes targeting climate action on peat soils under agricultural management.
In Budget 2021 €20m in additional funding was allocated for the creation of pilot environmental programmes. This was supplemented with the continuation of the €3m in funding that was provided for agricultural programmes from carbon tax receipts in 2020, bringing the total funding for carbon tax supported measures in the agricultural sector to €23m in 2021.
In 2022 the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine deferred their carbon tax allocation, save the continuation of the 2020 funding of €3m for green agricultural pilots. This funding was deferred on the basis that it would form part of the suite of programmes under the new Common Agricultural Policy, commencing in 2023.
For 2023, €81m has been allocated to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. This figure represents the €49m that was foregone in 2022, plus an additional allocation of €29m for 2023. Again, €3m in funding will be provided to continue the 2020 Green Agricultural Pilot programme.
This brings the total funding that has been allocated from the carbon tax to the agricultural sector to date up to €110m.
The funding in 2023 will be used for the new Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) which will support farmers who undertake actions which are beneficial for the environment. This will include measures that support mitigating carbon emissions, protecting water quality, improving soil fertility, protecting biodiversity, adapting to climate change, and reducing chemical fertiliser usage. Beyond ACRES, the remaining €3m of the 2023 Carbon Tax funds will support other initiatives, including a demonstration anaerobic digestion project
The use of carbon funds in 2023 was detailed in the Budget Day publication "The Use of Carbon Tax Funds 2023" which continues to be available on the budget.gov.ie website.
Questions regarding the operational details of the schemes should be directed to the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine.
105. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his Department's plans in relation to encouraging the implementation of social and green clauses in public procurement contracts across the State; and if he will provide an example of the action his Department has taken to increase the use of these clauses. [48207/22]
View answerIn 2019, my Department published Circular 20/2019: Promoting the use of Environmental and Social Considerations in Public Procurement. This Circular instructs Departments to consider including green criteria in public procurement processes where clearly defined, quantifiable, verifiable, and measurable criteria have been developed, and the cost can be met within a Department’s existing budget without impacting on service delivery. It further requires Departments to incorporate relevant green procurement measures into their planning and reporting cycles, and highlights the possibilities for Departments to deliver wider social and environmental aims through public procurement.
Since publication of that Circular, there has been increased collaboration between my officials in the Office of Government Procurement (OGP), and a number of other Departments to encourage the implementation of social and green clauses in public procurement contracts across the State. The OGP chairs a Strategic Procurement Advisory Group to bring together the main sectoral Central Purchasing Bodies (CPBs) and key policy Departments with an interest in utilising public procurement to address national social and environmental strategies.
In 2021, the OGP and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) jointly established an environmental subgroup of the Strategic Procurement Advisory Group, to further facilitate discussion across CPBs and relevant Departments and Agencies on approaches to incorporate environmental considerations into procurement. In 2021, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) updated its ‘Green Public Procurement - Guidance for the Public Sector’. This was accompanied by defined, quantifiable, verifiable, and measurable green criteria for 10 sectors. The OGP, DECC, and EPA have extensively promoted use of these criteria in public procurement. As a specific example of an action taken by the OGP to increase the use of these green criteria, this year the OGP has led on the development of ‘GPP Criteria Search’ – an online search tool that allows the user rapidly to find, select, and download green public procurement (GPP) criteria relevant to specific procurement projects. This will be launched at the OGP Client Conference in November.
The OGP and its partner CPBs are increasingly incorporating social and green clauses into centralised purchasing arrangements that can be utilised by contracting authorities across the State.
106. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the progress made on the development of a new Garda station in Kickham Barracks, Clonmel, County Tipperary; the further engagement that has taken place between his Department, the Minister of State at the Office of Public Works, the Department of Justice and the National Development Finance Agency for this development; if the commencement date for construction and completion date will be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48277/22]
View answerThe Garda project for Clonmel designed by OPW has Planning Permission for some time. The Clonmel project is part of a wider PPP combining another Garda project in Macroom and the proposed new Family Courts project in Dublin. The Macroom Garda project also has Planning Permission. The Family Courts project is presently being developed with the Court Service. When approved the scheme will be submitted for planning. The projects that make up the combined Garda and Court PPP must all be at the same level of development before they can go to market. Therefore the Garda projects need the Family Court project to have Planning Permission in order to progress. It is hoped that the Family Court will be submitted to planning in Q1 2023.
108. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the cumulative total of spending measures in budget 2023, with a specific focus on tackling cost-of-living issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48229/22]
View answerBudget 2023 provides substantial resources (c. €4.5bn) in expenditure measures to respond to price pressures, particularly for those on lower incomes. While Government has already taken significant steps to ease the burden of the rising cost of living, it is clear the winter ahead will bring uncertainty for many households and businesses. To go towards alleviating this, Budget 2023 contains a significant response to support households, public and community services and businesses.
Households
The Government announced a €2.2 billion Winter cost of living package for households. This includes:
- a double week payment for weekly social welfare schemes in October,
- a fuel allowance lump sum of €400,
- a once-off payment of €500 to those in receipt of Carer's Support Grant and to people on Disability Allowance, Blind Pension & Invalidity Pension,
- a €200 living alone allowance lump sum,
- a €500 working family payment lump sum,
- a €140 double child benefit payment,
- a once off reduction in the student contribution fee by €1,000 for undergrads and 1/3 for Apprentices; €1,000 increase to post-graduates tuition fee contribution grant.
- a double payment to those eligible for SUSI maintenance grants and once off payment of €500 for SFI and IRC PhD researchers,
- €8 million for the Student Assistance fund, and
- three €200 electricity credits with the two instalments in the New Year.
In addition, a Christmas Bonus will also be paid to eligible social protection recipients in 2022 at a cost of €0.3 billion. While the supports provided are substantial, Government cannot protect all households and businesses against the full effects of inflation as the level of resources available are finite, and to do so would lead to additional inflationary pressures. However, the measures introduced do recognise the particular challenges faced by those on lower and fixed incomes.
These one-off measures are complemented by a comprehensive range of new core permanent spending measures for 2023. The estimated value of those measures focusing on cost of living is c. €1.3 billion. These measures include €12 weekly Social Protection rates increase for working age and pension payments and an increase in the universal subsidy on the National Childcare Scheme. Health, Education and Further & Higher Education measures will provide further support.
A further €0.15 billion will be allocated for the continuation in 2023 of the 20% average fare reduction on Public Transport and the Young Adult Card on Public Service Obligation bus and rail services.
Public and community services
In recognition of the unprecedented rise in energy bills being experienced across the economy, Government is also making available €340 million in 2022 to support other sectors / services. This will support schools, further and higher education institutions, certain health funded bodies, local authorities, and a range of bodies and institutions in the areas of Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sports and Community.
Business
In addition, to support businesses Government is introducing a €200 million Ukraine Emergency Response Scheme to be administered by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. This scheme will provide funding to help firms faced with liquidity shortages as a result of increased energy costs.
Additional taxation measures for households and businesses were also announced as part of Budget 2023.
109. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the outcome of the most recent discussions he or his Department have had with their counterparts in Northern Ireland concerning flooding in County Cavan, which is caused by the River Erne; the measures that will be implemented to address these issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48296/22]
View answer253. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will ensure consideration will be given to an amendment to the Arterial Drainage Act 1945 to include additional waterways, including the River Erne system in County Cavan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48362/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 109 and 253 together.
The Office of Public Works (OPW) has an on-going relationship with the former Rivers Agency (now part of the Department for Infrastructure, Northern Ireland) (DfI Rivers), which is the Competent Authority for the implementation of the 'Floods' Directive in Northern Ireland.
In 2009, the OPW and Dfl Rivers agreed to establish a Cross-Border Co-ordination Group to co-ordinate the implementation of the ‘EU Floods Directive’ across the border. This work was supported by a Cross-Border Technical Co-ordination Group. These groups have met on numerous occasions since, most recently on 14 September this year, to coordinate on the identification of areas of potentially significant flood risk, to share information and agree approaches to the production of flood mapping in border areas and to coordinate on the identification of measures and the preparation of Flood Risk Management Plans.
The Erne catchment was assessed under the OPW’s Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management Programme (CFRAM), in close co-operation with DfI Rivers. The study considered increasing watercourse conveyance of the Erne system to lower water levels as a measure to reduce flood risk. This study revealed that water levels in the majority of the Erne catchment in Ireland, remain unchanged regardless of any works that could be carried out in Northern Ireland.
The Flood Risk Management Plan for the Erne River Basin developed under CFRAM and published in May 2018 included a flood relief scheme for Cavan Town. Cavan County Council as the Lead Authority, in partnership with the OPW, are progressing this scheme. Byrne Looby were appointed in May 2022 as the engineering and environmental consultants to deliver the project.
The Cavan Town flood relief scheme is being delivered under Project Ireland 2040, where the Government is providing an investment of €1.3 billion on flood relief measures over the next decade. When completed, the proposed flood relief scheme will protect some 110 properties - 54 residential and 56 non-residential properties.
The development of flood relief schemes involves five distinct, sequential and related stages. Currently the Cavan Town flood relief scheme is at Stage 1. The detailed scheme programme schedules that this stage will be concluded in Q.1 2025.
Consultation with statutory and non-statutory bodies, as well as the general public, will take place at the appropriate stages to ensure that all parties have the opportunity to input into the development of the proposals within the scheme. The first stakeholder and public consultation event was recently held in Cavan on 13 September 2022.
The OPW does not have Arterial Drainage Schemes on the River Erne system in County Cavan and is not responsible for channel maintenance in the area in accordance with its statutory requirements under the Arterial Drainage Act, 1945. However, parts of the Erne catchment are a Drainage District for which the local authority is responsible for ongoing maintenance.
The OPW has no plans for further catchment-wide arterial drainage schemes. However, to target the management of flood risk outside of cities, towns and villages, in 2009 the OPW introduced the Minor Flood Mitigation Works & Coastal Protection Scheme. The purpose of this Scheme is to provide funding to Local Authorities to undertake flood mitigation works or studies to address localised flooding and coastal protection problems within their administrative areas. Funding of €463,302 has been approved for Cavan County Council under this scheme since 2009.
110. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position regarding the development of improved flood defences for Arklow town; if his Department is committed to having open public engagement on the proposed works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48284/22]
View answerThe Arklow Flood Relief Scheme is being progressed by Wicklow County Council, with full funding provided by The Office of Public Works (OPW).
The Scheme was granted planning approval from An Bórd Pleanála in July of this year, following a 2-day Oral Hearing on the Compulsory Purchases Order process in January, where members of the public were provided with a platform to formally voice their objections and communicate their views to An Bórd Pleanála.
Presently Wicklow County Council is drafting consultancy briefs to bring the scheme to the next stage, with a view to appointing detailed design consultants in 2023.
The Scheme will protect the town of Arklow against coastal and river flooding. The defence system includes a plan to deepen the river, and to construct floodwalls, glass panelling and an embankment as barriers to protect against flood risk. Once completed, the scheme will protect 778 properties from flooding.
A dedicated Project Team will be in place in Wicklow County Council, which will include a community liaison officer to oversee public engagement. In addition, a communications strategy will be set out in the consultancy brief and implemented to include a standalone website, facilitating public interaction with the Project Team.
111. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which he remains satisfied that realistic steps in terms of public expenditure and reform are being taken to facilitate economic progress and prudent fiscal management; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48271/22]
View answer256. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which his Department can remain satisfied that public expenditure as announced in budget 2023 remains in accord with best practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48662/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 111 and 256 together.
In Budget 2023 I have set out a responsive approach to fiscal policy - investing in the future of our public services and economy while addressing the challenges faced today. I have provided €85.9 billion in core expenditure. This funding will support the sustainable delivery of public services and infrastructure, and invest in the quality of life in Ireland to support a strong, fair and equal society into the future. This expenditure will ensure investment in our public sector workforce, improvements in our public services and investment in digitalisation and climate initiatives.
In addition I have outlined non-core expenditure of €4.5 billion which will provide for the continued support of the economy and society for the external challenges we face. Economic activity rebounded strongly as society reopened following the abatement of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, new challenges have emerged. The cost of living is increasing for many households. The war in Ukraine has meant the provision of significant humanitarian supports. Non-core allocations provide for measures in respect of a continued response to: Covid-19; Ukraine; and Brexit. This approach ensures resources can be provided on a temporary basis to respond to these challenges and then unwound when no longer required.
The Government’s aim is to deliver sustainable public expenditure, and Budget 2023 seeks to balance the need to protect the real value of public services and support citizens without adding further to inflationary pressures.
Sustainable expenditure over the medium-term will be delivered through a Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) which provides for:
- Setting the core expenditure growth rate at sustainable levels; and
- Providing ongoing improvements in public services.
This Framework must be responsive to the economic and fiscal context. This year has seen developments which have altered the economic landscape significantly, including higher inflation and borrowing costs. Taking account of these developments, a temporary upward adjustment is being made to the MTEF. This sees 2023 core expenditure increasing to €85.9 billion, with a core expenditure growth rate of 6.3 per cent. Core expenditure growth is expected to return to 5 per cent over the medium term.
Through this approach I am seeking to ensure the right balance between providing support, investing in our economy and public services, and safeguarding fiscal sustainability in the long term.
112. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he has set aside a contingency fund for further one-off spending measures in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48230/22]
View answerBudget 2023 set a comprehensive response to support investment in public services, facilitate continued response to externally driven challenges alongside measures to help alleviate the cost of living pressures experienced by households and businesses.
Cost of Living
The Government announced a €2.2 billion Winter cost of living package for households. This includes:
- a double week of weekly social welfare schemes in October,
- a fuel allowance lump sum of €400,
- a once-off payment of €500 to those in receipt of Carer's Support Grant and to people on Disability Allowance, Blind Pension & Invalidity Pension,
- a €200 living alone allowance lump sum,
- a €500 working family payment lump sum,
- a double child benefit payment,
- a once off reduction in the student contribution fee by €1,000 for undergrads and 1/3 for Apprentices; €1,000 increase to post-graduates tuition fee contribution grant.
- a double payments to those eligible for SUSI maintenance grants and once off payment of €500 for SFI and IRC PhD researchers,
- €8 million for the Student Assistance fund, and
- three €200 electricity credits with the two instalments in the New Year.
In addition, a Christmas Bonus will also be paid to social protection recipients in the same manner as last year. While the supports provided are substantial, Government cannot protect all households and businesses against the full effects of inflation as the level of resources available are finite, and to do so would lead to additional inflationary pressures. However, the measures introduced do recognise the particular challenges faced by those on lower and fixed incomes.
In recognition of the unprecedented rise in energy bills being experienced across the economy, Government is also making available €340 million in 2022 to support other sectors / services across the economy. This will support schools, further and higher education institutions, health funded bodies, local authorities, and provide funding for areas including Cultural Institutions and Bodies, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sports Bodies & Community Organisations.
In relation to businesses, Government is introducing a €200 million Ukraine Emergency Response Scheme to be administered by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. This scheme will provide funding to help firms faced with liquidity shortages as a result of increased energy costs. An estimated €1.2 billion will be provided under the Business Energy Support Scheme.
In terms of Budget 2023, income tax measures alongside a range of permanent expenditure measures will also help households with the increasing cost of living. These measures include a €1 billion Social Protection package, reductions in childcare costs through increased National Childcare subsidy and a number of health-related measures.
Non Core Expenditure 2023
A series of successive external shocks are having an impact on our society, economy and fiscal position. Our fiscal policy has remained responsive by providing supports through non-core expenditure. Since 2020, the effects of Covid-19, Brexit and the war in Ukraine have posed considerable challenges. These have been challenging events, and our response to them has required substantial financial resources. We have been able to confront these challenges due to a strong economy and fiscal position, and a willingness to invest in sustaining and growing our economy into the future.
Allocations of temporary funding to respond to external challenges facing our economy and society are considered separately from core expenditure allocations. This approach facilitates responsive fiscal policy providing supports to deal with key emerging issues while protecting core day-to-day expenditure and investment. This ensures focus on long term goals such as enhancing investment in infrastructure and public services.
Given the expected continued impact of Covid-19, Brexit and the war in Ukraine into 2023, funding will be provided for our response to these challenges. I have provided for €4.5 billion in non-core expenditure in 2023. I have allocated over €1.8 billion of this funding to Departments as part of Budget 2023, while €2.7 billion will remain held in reserve to allow Government to respond to these challenges as required.
113. Deputy Jennifer Carroll MacNeill asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the proposed national children's science centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48262/22]
View answerThe proposal to build an interactive children’s science museum in Dublin originated in the early 2000s. The promoters of the scheme, with the support of then Taoiseach, requested the Office of Public Works (OPW) on behalf of the State, to undertake to provide this facility at a State-owned site.
However, the economic crash resulted in the overall proposal having to be abandoned as the economic model underpinning the development had collapsed.
In 2013, arbitration proceedings were instigated by the scheme’s promoters and negotiations took place with the OPW to seek a resolution on the matter. On 27th September 2013, on foot of legal advice, a settlement agreement was entered into whereby the OPW agreed to construct at State expense, an interactive science centre building at the north wing of the Earlsfort Terrace Complex- adjoining the National Concert Hall.
The promoters of the scheme, the Irish Children's Museum Ltd (ICML), is a private company registered as a charity and was established to promote and develop the Centre. The ICML board is currently comprised of 7 members. The arbitration agreement entered into 2013 resulted in ICML being awarded a licence to operate the centre free of charge. It is required to fund the cost of the exhibits in the museum estimated at €15-€20m.
I wish to inform the Deputy following the Arbitrators decision in June 2022 that the Office of Public Works must proceed to build the facility and provide it to Irish Children's Museum Limited (ICML) for purposes of operating the museum. The Office of Public Works are completing the next steps in this process.
The first step in the process was to lodge a new planning application to replace a previously lapsed planning application to Dublin City Council which happened on the 29th September 2022 to build a National Children’s Science Museum on Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2
Subsequently the second step was to commence a prequalification competition for the main contractor and reserved specialists for the building of a new museum and is available on the etenders portal since Friday 30th September 2022.
The Office of Public Works must also meet the capital costs of constructing a new National Children’s Science Museum at the North Wing of the National Concert Hall as per the terms of our agreement with the NCSC Ltd. The most recent cost estimate is €47m but this will have risen since due to higher construction inflation than calculated at the time. The cost will be incurred primarily in 2024 and 2025.
My Office will liaise with other government departments especially the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Sports and The Gaeltacht, Department of Public Expenditure & Reform, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and other relevant public bodies.
114. Deputy Jennifer Carroll MacNeill asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will report on the letting arrangements for Miesian Plaza; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48261/22]
View answerThe Commissioners of Public Works (OPW) have entered into a 25 year lease in respect of Block 1 Miesian Plaza, Baggot Street. The lease commenced on the 21st December 2016 and the current annual rent is €8.8m.
Miesian Plaza provides accommodation for over 900 civil servants from four Government Departments, including head quarter accommodation for the Department of Health and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. The building also provides additional accommodation for the Department of Finance and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
Miesian Plaza is one of the flagship buildings in the State’s office portfolio and represents best in class in terms of modern office accommodation. Most importantly for me, is the fact that this building has the highest credentials in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability.
Following completion of the lease an issue arose in relation to the measurement standard applied as the basis of calculation of the annual rent. When the issue was identified the OPW engaged with the Landlord to mitigate the effect of this issue in a manner that would be acceptable to both parties.
As a result of lengthy, complex and intensive engagement, at a very senior level, between the OPW and the Landlord, the parties have agreed to extend the lease on Miesian Plaza by a period of 9 months at a nominal rent of €10 per annum. A Deed of Variation has now been finalised to give effect to this agreement.
The OPW considers that this agreement is the best possible outcome achievable for the taxpayer in all the circumstances. While this issue of measurement was unfortunate and should never have arisen, I would acknowledge the efforts of my own officials and the representatives of the landlord in bringing the issue to a conclusion. The engagement between the OPW and the Landlord on this matter was at all times constructive and professional.
Out of courtesy, given their ongoing interest in the matter, the OPW have informed the Public Accounts Committee of the outcome of their engagement with the Landlord on this issue.
115. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position regarding works proposed for Glendalough visitor centre; if existing oil tanks are being replaced; if other non-fossil fuel-based heating methods were considered; if consideration has been given to potential flood risks for new infrastructure at this location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48289/22]
View answerThe existing oil tanks at Glendalough Visitor Centre were surveyed and, due to their age and condition, they were selected for upgrade as part of an ongoing OPW oil-tank replacement programme. The tanks are approximately 20 years old, constructed in steel (single skin) and are in poor condition. The existing tanks are vulnerable to corrosion, which potentially could result in an oil leak causing serious contamination of the local environment. The replacement programme targets old tanks, such as those in Glendalough and replaces them with modern double-skin bunded tanks. These modern oil tanks give added safeguards and enhanced protection to prevent corrosion.
The oil tank replacement does not involve any upgrade or changes to the existing heating system and therefore the use of non-fossil fuel heating does not arise. The Deputy should be assured that the use of non-fossil fuel heating will of course be considered as part of any future planned energy retrofit or refurbishment of the visitor centre. Currently there are no such plans.
Glendalough is a signature destination within Ireland’s Ancient East. It is renowned for its dramatic landscape valley, set in a glaciated valley with two lakes, the monastic remains include a superb round tower, stone churches and decorated crosses. At the mouth of the Glendalough Valley is the 'Monastic City' a National monument in State Ownership under management of OPW.
The title of 'Monastic City' given to the remains of the famous early Christian monastic settlement first established by St. Kevin in the 6th century in the Glendalough Valley. The monks abandoned the settlement centuries ago due to religious and political upheavals, but many of their hand-built stone buildings still stand, a testament to their way of life. The site is interpreted by OPW Guide staff who welcome approximately 71,000 visitors to the Centre. However, the Monastic City, which is accessible without recourse to the Visitor Centre, attracts in the region of 700,000 - 750,000 visitors per annum and approx. 1.5 million visitors to the National Park making them amongst the most popular locations in Ireland.
In light of the incredible visitor demand in this location, in 2020, the Office of Public Works in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, National Parks and Wildlife Service, the National Monuments Service and Wicklow County Council commissioned a Visitor Experience and Management Masterplan for Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains National Park and Visitor Orientation Recommendations for Co. Wicklow. The development of this masterplan is currently on-going.
Until such time as the Masterplan process is concluded, OPW has no plans to install new infrastructure at Glendalough. However, any new developments would not proceed without the necessary environmental assessments being undertaken and the necessary planning permissions sought and granted.
116. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the total funding available for the PEACE PLUS Programme; when this programme will become operational; when community groups and statutory agencies will be able to submit applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48297/22]
View answerThe new 2021-27 PEACEPLUS cross-border EU programme has a total funding package of some €1.1bn. I am very pleased to note that this represents an unprecedented financial investment in support of shared peace and prosperity on the island of Ireland – double the combined value of the outgoing 2014-20 INTERREG and PEACE programmes.
The draft PEACEPLUS programme has been developed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), working in close cooperation with my Department and with the Department of Finance in Northern Ireland, and is now at its final stage of development. Having been approved by Government, by the Northern Ireland Executive and by the North South Ministerial Council during the autumn of 2021, the draft programme was formally approved and adopted by the European Commission in July 2022.
Work is now ongoing to finalise the Financing Agreement between the EU, the UK and Ireland which is required for PEACEPLUS. It is anticipated that this process will be completed in sufficient time to allow for the first funding calls under PEACEPLUS to open for application before the end of 2022.
However, even in advance of this, the importance of this funding reaching the ground as rapidly as possible is clearly recognised by all parties involved in the development of the new programme. On this basis, a programme of pre-development support is currently being implemented by the SEUPB. This will assist potential applicants under PEACEPLUS to deliver high quality applications once funding calls open. Work is also ongoing to establish and convene a Programme Monitoring Committee for PEACEPLUS in order to approve programme rules, as well as the first draft funding calls for the new programme.
These steps will ensure that PEACEPLUS can open for funding applications at the earliest possible stage over the months ahead, following completion of a Financing Agreement for the programme.
117. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the modernisation of the office accommodation portfolio in line with the Office of Public Works estate strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48286/22]
View answerA key function of the OPW is to provide office accommodation for all Government Departments. In this regard the OPW actively manages both an owned and leased office accommodation portfolio in support of Government requirements and policy.
The OPW has a significant and diverse office accommodation portfolio distributed throughout the country, comprising of 890,488 square meters at year end 2021, and including a range of differing types of office provision, from prestige heritage buildings to brand new grade A office accommodation.
To meet its strategic objectives of modernising the estate and making it more efficient, OPW constantly seeks to appraise the potential of the existing Owned state accommodation portfolio in terms of refurbishment opportunities, potential asset recycling prospects and future redevelopment sites. This is done in parallel and in conjunction with ongoing appraisal, monitoring and managing of opportunities which arise from within the Leasehold Estate.
Managing an office accommodation portfolio of this size and diversity present significant challenges, particularly in terms of modernisation. For instance, due to OPW’s heritage remit there will always be a proportion of OPW’s office portfolio in heritage buildings. Such heritage buildings, by their nature, present very complex challenges. The OPW’s existing office accommodation portfolio has a disproportionate amount of buildings dating from the early 1950’s to the early 1990’s. In many cases, these buildings are now raising significant issues for Client Departments, and are in need of major reinvestment.
In order to address the ageing profile of the office accommodation, significant projects are currently underway to improve the condition and quality of the portfolio These projects have been supported by capital funding under the National Development Plan, and the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. This funding will go some way to modernising the office accommodation portfolio into the future.
Major modernisation projects currently underway across the state owned office accommodation portfolio include new office developments on Leeson Lane and Military Rd, Dublin and a deep retrofit project in Tom Johnson House, Dublin.
Separately, there are a number of office accommodation fit-out projects, in newly constructed office developments which are at various stages of their project lifecycle across the leasehold portfolio.
In addition to this, the OPW has an ongoing programme of fabric upgrades and energy efficiency retrofit projects in government buildings to enhance the overall condition and performance of our buildings. Central to these upgrade projects is the need to ensure that all buildings over time are increasingly sustainable and aligned with best practice relating to the climate change agenda.
Lastly, the OPW is currently collaborating with SEAI to deliver a “Building Retrofit Pathfinder Programme” with overall funding of €30M.
118. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will outline the package of supports for community and voluntary organisations and sports clubs announced in budget 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48326/22]
View answerIn my speech on 27th September, I acknowledged that not-for-profit and voluntary organisations in the Arts, Sports, Gaeltacht and the Community and Voluntary sector, are woven into the fabric of community life across Ireland, but they are also very vulnerable to the severe impact of increased energy bills. For that reason, I am making €60 million available in 2022 to ease the pressures in these sectors. The framework for this assistance will be put in place in the next few weeks to ensure that they benefit this year. The relevant Departments will make more information available in due course.
119. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the consideration he gave to expanding capital investment in areas such as housing, climate and energy savings prior to budget 2023 in order to reduce the need for large current expenditures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48395/22]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware, my Department is responsible for the allocation of public funds across each area of Government spending and to ensure that expenditure is managed by Departments in line with these allocations. The responsibility for the management and delivery of investment projects, within the agreed allocations and within the national frameworks such as the Public Spending Code, rests with the individual sponsoring Department in each case.
The National Development Plan (NDP) 2021-30, published last year, demonstrates the Government’s commitment to meeting Ireland’s infrastructure and investment needs over the medium term horizon. The NDP 2021-2030 provides €165 billion in public capital funding alongside a detailed and positive vision for Ireland up to 2030 as part of Project Ireland 2040. In Budget 2023 last week, I announced an additional €800 million which will be made available under the NDP for core capital spending to help in delivering the largest, greenest and most ambitious infrastructure plan in the history of the State. In overall terms, over €12 billion will be available next year for vital infrastructure investment. Capital investment next year will be 4 1/2% of national income (GNI*) well above the EU average in recent years of 3% (GDP). This represents a very substantial commitment of resources.
This investment will be delivered in line with the National Planning Framework with increases in nearly every sector, but with a particular focus on housing, climate action, transport and health. Capital allocations are set out in the NDP on a Departmental basis for the period to 2025 and on an aggregate basis out to 2030. The capital expenditure ceilings detailed in the NDP are cognisant of the overall capability of the construction sector to deliver on the NDP and of the appropriate share of National Income being devoted to infrastructure. In addition, extensive analysis was conducted in the NDP in relation to sectoral demands, the macroeconomic context and a highly engaged public consultation process. The levels of capital spending, at close to 5% of GNI*, are already among the highest in the EU and are close to the limit of the overall capability to deliver in the coming decade. In these circumstances, the work detailed as part of the NDP provides assurance that the total quantum of the NDP allocation and the sectoral shares within that continue to be appropriate as part of Budget 2023.
120. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an update on measures the Office of Public Works has made in collaboration with An Garda Síochána to enforce the 30 km/h speed limit in the Phoenix Park. [48290/22]
View answerThe Phoenix Park is a historic landscape of international importance and one of the largest designed landscapes in any European city. The Park represents a unique natural and cultural landscape that is both a historic park and a city park and which provides a setting for a range of activities and amenities.
The Park is a complex place comprising many components that serve a variety of functions. It is often referred to as Dublin’s ‘Green Lung’ as it offers citizens and visitors an extraordinary opportunity to engage with nature and the outdoors right in the heart of our capital city.
Following an extensive public consultation process, the Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options Study Post-Consultation Report was published last year with a number of key recommendations, including the reduction of the speed limit from 50 kilometres per hour to 30 kilometres per hour.
The lower speed limit was introduced for public safety and there has been a reduction of speeds within the Park with a noticeable change in driver behaviour, making the Park a safer place for all visitors.
Studies have shown that a reduction in the speed limit to 30 kilometres per hour reduces the risk of fatalities. The 30 kilometres per hour speed limit has been adopted in many other urban areas across Europe including cities in, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, and Sweden, not only for safety reasons, but to reduce noise, air pollution and CO2 emissions.
An Garda Síochána continue to support the OPW in all the changes and improvements being undertaken in the Park. While a change in driver behaviour within the Park has been observed with most motorists respecting the lower speed.
In addition, work continues on another of the key recommendations contained in the study published last year; the development of a Parking Strategy for the Phoenix Park. The Parking Strategy will address both vehicular and cycle parking within the boundary of the Phoenix Park, as well as any potential impacts on the immediate surrounding areas. The Strategy will also address the needs of those with mobility issues and their parking requirements. The draft Strategy will be put for public consultation this autumn with a view to finalising it by the end of 2023.
The OPW is committed to improving the experience of all visitors to the Phoenix Park by making it safer for all visitors.
121. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the allocations provided to Monaghan County Council for flood alleviation measures in each of the years since 2017 to date. [48264/22]
View answerLocal flooding issues are a matter, in the first instance, for each Local Authority to investigate and address. All local authorities may carry out flood mitigation works, within their own capital works programme and using their own resources, or by applying for funding under the Office of Public Works Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme. The purpose of the scheme is to provide funding to Local Authorities to undertake minor flood mitigation works or studies to address localised flooding within their areas. The scheme generally applies where a solution can be readily identified and achieved in a short time frame. Under the scheme, applications are considered for projects that are estimated to cost not more than €750,000 in each instance. Funding of up to 90% of the cost is available for approved projects. Applications are assessed by the OPW having regard to the specific economic, social and environmental criteria of the Scheme, including a cost benefit ratio.
Since 2017 some €1.1m of allocation has been approved to Monaghan County Council under this scheme and the associated breakdown from 2017 to 2022 is set out beneath.
|
Year |
€ |
|
2017 |
€58,500 |
|
2018 |
€459,900 |
|
2019 |
€500,000 |
|
2021 |
€76,500 |
|
2022 |
€0 |
The OPW guidelines for funding applications under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme, together with a full list of funding approvals since 2009 is available on the OPW website: www.floodinfo.ie
122. Deputy Brian Leddin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will report on the progress of the plan of the Office of Public Works to move Revenue Commissioners staff from Sarsfield House to the planned opera development in Limerick city; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48342/22]
View answerFollowing on from the publication of the Economic and Spatial Plan for Limerick, the Government decided in principle, to the relocation of the Revenue Commissioners from their existing offices in Sarsfield House to new offices that will form part of the major Opera, urban regeneration scheme being developed in Limerick city centre. It was further decided that the OPW would receive ring fenced funding to complete the acquisition. A Working Group, chaired by the Revenue Commissioners, comprising Limerick City & County Council and the Office of Public Works was established on foot of the Government Decision S130/60/38/0001N of 16 December 2014.
The Office of the Revenue Commissioners and the Office of Public Works, continue to work with Limerick City & County Council and Limerick 2030, to give effect to the Government decision and to ensure the new Opera site will provide a modern, energy efficient office building that will meet the long-term requirements of the Revenue Commissioners and other OPW clients in Limerick city centre.
There has been extensive engagement with the Limerick Twenty Thirty DAC design team and a full detailed design of the superstructure of the building has been completed. The OPW understands that an amended planning application will shortly be lodged by Limerick 2030 and OPW awaits the outcome of this application together with further updates on project progress.
The OPW are actively engaged on this project. A meeting is taking place this week between the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, Limerick City & County Council, Limerick 2030, the Revenue Commissioners and the OPW to further progress this project.
123. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the details of the delivery of modular units to provide emergency accommodation for Ukrainian refugees. [33084/22]
View answerSince the invasion of Ukraine by Russia’s armed forces in February this year, Ireland has welcomed almost 50,000 Ukrainian people who have fled the war in their country. The EU’s Temporary Protection Directive provides the legal framework for assisting Ukrainians entering the EU who are officially called Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs). The Government’s overall humanitarian response is coordinated with our EU partners and other countries. Because of the sudden and unprecedented numbers of new arrivals in the State, over such a short period of time, the Government, of necessity, has had to use a range of accommodation sources to facilitate displaced Ukrainians. These include hotels, guesthouses, former religious buildings, sports halls, youth hostels, scout dens, arenas, holiday villages and tented camps as well as space in privately owned homes pledged through the Irish Red Cross.
On 11th April, the Government agreed that the Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH) would lead on addressing the medium and long-term need to develop capacity for Ukrainian arrivals including the possible provision of modular accommodation. A Task-force was set up, led by the DHLGH, to oversee a 3-streamed approach to modular, refurbishments and new builds.
Arising from a Memorandum from the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, considered on 26th April, the Government decided on a range of measures to boost the supply of accommodation for refugees arriving from Ukraine. These measures included a rapid build, volumetric modular units, option the evaluation of which was to be led by the Office of Public Works (OPW).
The OPW in conjunction with the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) representing specialist modular manufacturers and main contractors, developed an exemplar design and specification to ensure Building Regulation compliance. The design is based exclusively on rigid frame volumetric structures which represents the best method, having regard to the need for quality, speed, and simplicity of design and production, to achieve the scale of programme required.
The modular prototype that has been designed is a highly energy efficient (BER A2) durable single storey unit (with a useful life of 60 years). The 60 year lifespan was chosen to be consistent with housing standards and to maximise the long-term value to the exchequer, of the significant upfront investment involved, by providing units that can meet future accommodation needs, once the humanitarian crisis, induced by the War in Ukraine, has passed.
On 28th June, 2022, the Government authorised the roll-out of a modular homes programme to provide accommodation for 2,000 Ukrainians, predominantly women and children, in 500 family units at several sites across Ireland. Since then, my Office has been working collaboratively with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth as the Lead Department, and a range of other bodies such as the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage, local authorities, Irish Water, ESB networks and Open Eir to deliver the modular housing programme. Sisk and Son is the main contractor that has been engaged to manage the site enabling works and to arrange for the procurement, transportation and installation of the modular units. Site evaluation works are being undertaken by my Office in collaboration with Sisk to finalise the list of sites necessary for the programme. My Office is also supporting the Department of Children, Equality, Disability and Youth with their comprehensive programme of engagement with representatives of local communities adjacent to sites under consideration for the installation of modular units. Enabling works are scheduled to start shortly on a number of sites that have been prioritised for early development with a view to completing the overall programme for the installation and occupation of the 500 units on a phased basis up to end February 2023.
The successful delivery of these units will meet the Governments objective to provide new sources of accommodation, as part of the State’s humanitarian response to the Ukrainian crisis, and will also provide the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth with a flexibility of response to accommodation demand that is not currently available.
