Written Answers Nos. 126-145
127. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the amount of money that has been spent and drawn down to deliver projects in County Cork heretofore; if he is satisfied that public expenditure on the capital side is sufficient to meet demands and requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2163/23]
View answerAs Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform I am responsible for setting the overall capital allocations across Departments and for monitoring monthly expenditure at Departmental level. The responsibility for the management and delivery of individual investment projects, within the allocations agreed under the National Development Plan (NDP), rests with the individual sponsoring Department in each case. My Department therefore allocates expenditure on a departmental basis, not a geographic basis.
The NDP published in October 2021 provides a detailed and positive vision for Ireland out to 2030 and delivers total public investment of €165 billion over the period 2021-2030. The NDP establishes the Government’s over-arching investment framework and broad direction for investment priorities for this decade. 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. The levels of capital spending in the NDP, 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 2023, over €12 billion will be made available from the Exchequer for investment in public capital projects, which will provide more schools, homes, hospitals and other pieces of vital infrastructure. This level of expenditure will be pivotal in consolidating the progress already made, and, most importantly, delivering the infrastructure to support our future climate, social and economic requirements.
The Government will continue to detail the delivery of the NDP at regular intervals into the future to allow for full transparency on the implementation of Project Ireland 2040. This will be achieved through regular updates of the Project Ireland 2040 capital investment tracker and map as well as the publication of annual reports and regional reports highlighting Project Ireland 2040 achievements and giving a detailed overview of the public investments which have been made throughout the country.
The capital investment tracker provides a composite update on the progress of all major investments with an estimated cost of greater than €20 million. The tracker includes a number of major projects directly related to Cork city and county. Accompanying the tracker, the myProjectIreland interactive map details projects across the country and provides details on specific projects by county, including smaller investments such as schools and social housing projects. Search facilities also allow citizens to view projects in their regional area, by city, by county or by eircode.
In addition, Regional Reports on the implementation of Project Ireland 2040 in the Southern Region have been published for 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021. The reports set out the regional projects and programmes, which are being planned and delivered in the Southern Region, including Cork, as part of the public investment detailed in Project Ireland 2040. While this document does not provide an exhaustive list of all public capital expenditure in the region, it does serve to highlight the diverse range of investments being made by the State under Project Ireland 2040, including in County Cork.
The Project Ireland 2040 Regional Reports, capital investment tracker and myProjectIreland interactive map are all available on gov.ie/2040.
128. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his views on the Gender Pay Gap Report 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1637/23]
View answerI welcome the publication of my Department’s Gender Pay Gap Report 2022 on the Gov.ie website on 22 December 2022.
The gender pay gap is the difference in the average hourly wage of men and women across a workforce. This includes basic pay, allowances and overtime.
The Gender Pay Gap Information Act 2021 requires organizations to report on their hourly gender pay gap across a range of metrics. The manner and detail of how these calculations are made are set out in the Regulations under the Act, which came into operation on 31 May 2022.
My Department's report is based on a snapshot date of 24 June 2022 and reviews the pay of both male and female staff over the previous 12 month period.
- The Mean hourly gender pay gap of all employees in my Department is 5.71%, indicating that on average males in my Department are paid 5.71% more than females.
- The Median hourly gender pay gap of all employees in my Department is -2.00%, indicating that the median rate of pay of females in my Department is 2.00% higher than the median rate of pay of males.
Pay rates for each grade in the Civil Service are set out in published pay scales which apply to all staff. As such, the gender pay gap arises as a result of the differences in the proportion of male and female employees at particular grades.
As the Deputy is aware, my Department is fully committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in terms of its recruitment and employment practices. All appointments to my Department are managed as part of a competitive process, in compliance with the Civil and Public Service Appointments codes of practice and allocates appointees in order of merit.
The Civil Service, including my Department, is an inclusive employer that offers a broad range of flexible working options to staff including work sharing, blended working, flexible working hours, shorter working years and career breaks, to name a few.
129. Deputy Frankie Feighan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will report on the latest developments regarding the national development plan in respect to the north-west region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2385/23]
View answerAs Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform I am responsible for setting the overall capital allocations across Departments and for monitoring monthly expenditure at Departmental level. The responsibility for the management and delivery of individual investment projects, within the allocations agreed under the National Development Plan (NDP), rests with the individual sponsoring Department in each case.
Balanced regional development is a key priority of this Government and this priority is at the heart of Project Ireland 2040. This strategic plan includes the National Planning Framework (NPF), which sets the overarching spatial strategy for the next twenty years, along with the revised National Development Plan 2021-30 (NDP) which was published in October 2021. The revised NDP provides a detailed and positive vision for Ireland over the next 10 years, and sees total public investment of €165 billion over the period 2021-2030.
Ensuring close alignment between the NDP and the National Planning Framework is necessary in order to accommodate a far bigger population by 2040 across Ireland's three regional assembly areas. The plan aims to ensure that 75% of growth takes place outside Dublin. One of the objectives of the review of the NDP was to ensure the alignment of investment with that strategy in order to promote regional development as planned.
It is important to note that the NDP is fundamentally a high-level financial and budgetary plan, which sets out the framework and broad direction for investment priorities. It includes Exchequer allocations for Departments for the period 2021-2025 to support the delivery of the ten national strategic outcomes (NSOs) identified in the National Planning Framework, including NSO 3 which seeks to strengthen rural economies and communities.
The NDP is not a comprehensive list of all the public investment projects that will take place over the next ten years. However, where sufficient planning and evaluation has already taken place the NDP contains expenditure commitments for a range of strategic investment priorities which have been determined by the relevant Departments as central to the delivery of the National Planning Framework vision.
Individual projects are generally selected by Departments or Agencies based on a detailed process which begins with setting their own sectoral strategy and goals, and then subsequently identifying specific needs or challenges to be addressed, whether that be through regulation, taxation, education or potentially expenditure on an investment project.
The three Regional Assemblies are responsible for co-ordinating, promoting and supporting the strategic planning and sustainable development of their regions, by formulating Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies (RSES). The strategy for the Northern and Western region has set out the priorities for the region based on the County Development Plans being integrated into a regional investment plan, which is expected to be a major driver of the implementation of the NPF.
The Government is committed to increasing public awareness of the capital investment in Project Ireland 2040 in all regions. A Project Ireland 2040 report on each regional assembly area, including the Northern and Western region, is published each year. The 2021 annual reports were published in July 2022 and are available on gov.ie/2040. The reports detail the specific regional projects and programmes, which are being planned and delivered in each region as part of the public investment detailed in the NDP.
In addition, my Department publishes a major capital projects tracker and an interactive map, which sets out details of the key projects and programmes being implemented under the NDP, including those in the Northern and Western region. The tracker and map include major projects across all regions and will be updated in the coming weeks and is also available on gov.ie/2040.
130. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will request that the OPW engages with the Courts Service regarding upgrade works (details supplied) for the former courthouse in Wicklow town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2139/23]
View answerI can confirm that Wicklow town Courthouse is owned by the Courts Service who are responsible for the scope and funding of any works to their buildings.
The Office of Public Works (OPW) does provide support to the Courts Service, on request, assisting with maintenance and works projects across their estate.
I can confirm that representatives from OPW Property Maintenance Services and the Courts Service recently met onsite at the former Wicklow Court house where they carried out a visual inspection of the condition of the building. The inspection identified a problem with water ingress through the roof of the Court House in a number of areas. The Courts Service has subsequently instructed OPW Property Maintenance Services to scope and cost works to the roof. OPW Property Maintenance Services will provide the Courts Service with details of the necessary work and a cost estimate for approval. When approval is received the OPW will go out to tender to procure a contractor to address the water ingress in order to protect the fabric of the building. Property Maintenance Services were also directed to disconnect the storage heaters in operation in the building.
OPW had previously carried out maintenance works on Wicklow Town Courthouse last April. These works included painting of the rails, windows and doors on the front elevation, cleaning the façade of the building and removal of weeds around the building. The scope and financing of these works was decided by the Courts Service.
To date the OPW have not received any request in relation to provide up-lighting at Wicklow town Court house from the Courts Service and the scope of any works to the building is a matter for the Courts Service who own the building and fund any works. The OPW would be happy to assist in this matter in the future if requested to do so by the Courts Service.
131. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 90 of 28 April 2022, the status of the Coirib go Cósta flood relief works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1884/23]
View answerI am advised that further to the Deputy’s previous questions on this matter, Galway City Council, as Project Sponsor and Contracting Authority, is leading the development of the Coirib go Cósta – Galway City Flood Relief Scheme, with technical advice and funding being provided by the Office of Public Works.
The primary objective of the Coirib go Cósta Project is to assess, design and deliver a viable, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable flood relief scheme for Galway City.
Following the completion of the hydrological and hydraulic modelling for the Scheme, a requirement has been identified to provide significantly more defences across the city than initially anticipated through the Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Programme. This increase in scope will have an impact on the programme.
Accordingly the programme for this scheme is currently under review. It is expected a revised programme will be available in Q1 2023. When available this revised programme will be uploaded to the project website.
132. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will outline plans under his consideration to reform ethics legislation; if so, if he will give a timeline for the implementation of those reforms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2282/23]
View answerI am happy to inform the Deputy that my Department has just completed a review of ethics legislation and a report on the Review was submitted to Government by my predecessor Minister McGrath in December. The Government approved the report‘s publication and agreed to the preparation of a General Legislative Scheme to reform the legislation informed by the Review's outcome. On foot of this, my Department will prepare a draft legislative scheme in consultation with relevant Ministers and bring it to Government for approval to publish during 2023. The Review Report itself is currently being prepared for publication and it will issue shortly.
As the Deputy might recall, my Department’s review of Ireland's statutory framework for standards in public office, which was agreed by the Government in September 2021, covered the following elements:
- A review of Ireland’s existing ethics legislative framework, including a reassessment of the 2015 Public Sector Standards Bill;
- A review of the recommendations of relevant tribunals of inquiry;
- A review of recommendations of the Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO) based on its operation of the current regime;
- Consultations with the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government on the local government aspects of a consolidated statutory regime;
- A review of current EU/International best practice; and
- Public Consultation - Consultations with various parties.
The Review considered input from key public sector stakeholders including the Departments of Justice and Housing and Local Government. It also engaged with the Dáil and Seanad Committees on Members Interests. It also considered recommendations from the Standards in Public Office Commission.
I can inform the Deputy that the recommendations in the Review Report broadly focus on five key themes:
- A legislative framework for Ethics to be underpinned by a set of overarching integrity principles
- New specific statutory prohibitions, including on the use of insider information
- Strengthening disclosures requirements to improve transparency and examining whether the regime should encompass more office holders
- Strengthening the Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO)
- Post-term employment restrictions for elected officials/public servants that address matters not already covered by lobbying regulation and should align closely with that legislation.
The Government’s ultimate goal is to create a fit-for-purpose, easy to understand and user-friendly ethical framework that contributes to the quality and efficacy of our public administration.
133. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position regarding inflation-related cost increases to capital projects within the national development plan; if costings of such increases are available, if he will he provide same in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2276/23]
View answerIn the interest of safeguarding public projects that are already under construction and to mitigate the risks of significant losses being sustained by contractors, in May 2022 the then Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform announced details of the “Inflation Co-operation Framework" (the Framework) for those parties engaged under a public works contract.
The Framework facilitates both parties to engage with one another for the purpose of addressing the impacts of the most recent onset of exceptional inflation and supply chain disruption and operates on an ex gratia basis. Reports from Departments suggest that agreements have been reached on a wide range of projects and, where formal agreement has not yet been reached, parties continue to engage with works progressing.
Costs relating to implementation of the Framework are to be met from within existing capital expenditure ceilings. The levels of capital spending set out in the NDP, 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. Similar to any process of Vote management, it will be up to sectors and Accounting Officers to assess whether existing timelines for the implementation of key projects will need to be adjusted on account of the Framework implementation or if there will be a need for prioritisation within their existing five year departmental ceilings.
The use of the Framework is voluntary, but participation by the parties is strongly encouraged. It represents a pragmatic and proportionate response to the current challenges caused by inflation that are not within either party’s control.
The cost associated with the implementation of the Framework are not collated centrally. It is managed at a project level by contracting authorities and reported to approving authorities so the impact on their overall capital ceiling can be assessed and the programme adjusted accordingly.
134. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if his Department has identified any complications with the transfer of the disability portfolio from the Department of Health to the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth; if he will provide details of these complications; the Department to which the disability budget will be allocated in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1590/23]
View answer163. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide details of the discussions his Department has had with the Department of Health and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth regarding the transfer of the disability portfolio; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1589/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 134 and 163 together.
DoH and DCEDIY are responsible for progressing this transfer. My Department has been engaging with both Departments as appropriate on an ongoing basis. The roles and responsibilities related to transfers of function are set out in the published Transfer of Functions Guidelines. This transfer has significant complexities given the integrated nature of disability and other health services alongside the scale of funding being transferred and the necessary related governance and financial oversight mechanisms. As is standard in transfer of functions, the relevant Departments are working to develop procedures to provide for a robust financial governance structure and satisfy the requirement that the transfer is carried out on an Exchequer neutral basis.
As the Deputy may be aware following publication of the Specialist Community-Based Disability Services (Transfer of Departmental Administration and Ministerial Functions) Order 2022 (S.I. 688 of 2022), the planned Transfer of Functions is set to take place on 1st March 2023 with necessary enabling work being completed by the two Departments and the HSE in advance. As per the Revised Estimates, the budgetary allocation for disability services for 2023 is currently part of the Health Vote. This funding allocation will be transferred to the Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth Vote on completion of the transfer with Further Revised Estimates then being presented to Dáil Éireann to reflect the transfer of funding.
136. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he intends to renew the current national development plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1721/23]
View answerAs Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, I am responsible for setting the overall capital allocations across Departments. Management and delivery of individual investment projects within the allocations agreed under the NDP is a key responsibility of every Department and Minister.
The National Development Plan 2021 – 2030 (NDP) published in October 2021 provides a detailed and positive vision for Ireland over the next 10 years, and delivers total public investment of €165 billion over the period 2021-2030. The NDP also set out the range of actions that are being taken to strengthen delivery, maximise value for money, and ensure to the greatest extent possible that projects are delivered on time, on budget and with the benefits targeted at the outset. In 2023, over €12 billion will be made available from the Exchequer for investment in public capital projects, which will provide more schools, homes, hospitals and other pieces of vital infrastructure.
In order to improve delivery efficiency, the Construction Sector Group (CSG), which is chaired by the Secretary General of my Department, has a number of initiatives currently underway to increase productivity in the sector. These include the recently established Construction Technology Centre, known as Construct Innovate, to accelerate research and innovation within the sector; the Build Digital Project funded by my Department to support the sector in its transition to digital; the adoption of Building Information Modelling; and an analysis of the cost of residential construction.
In conjunction with the CSG, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, is conducting a Residential Construction Cost Study. This is an analysis and value engineering exercise for costs of construction of house and apartment development, informed by cost comparisons with comparable EU countries. The study is also identifying opportunities for cost reduction for consideration by relevant Government departments and industry. The study is expected to be completed in Q1 2023.
In relation to the changed name for my Department, I am currently examining the support structures and levers available across Government in order to maximise delivery of vital infrastructure such as housing, schools, hospitals, roads and public transport. All options to improve delivery and ensure that capital allocations are best utilised will be examined early in 2023.
137. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the catchment and flood risk management plan under CFRAM for County Louth; the progress that has been made to date on the implementation of same; the funding that has been allocated to the scheme to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2147/23]
View answerTo deliver the proposed measures set out in the Flood Risk Management Plans for County Louth, Louth County Council, working with the Office of Public Works, has agreed to be the Lead Authority in the delivery of flood relief schemes at Dundalk/Blackrock South, Drogheda, Carlingford/Greenore, Baltray and Ardee, all of which are in the first tranche of projects being progressed. The funding for these schemes has been allocated under the €1.3bn investment in flood relief under the National Development Plan to 2030.
The development of flood relief schemes, overseen by project Steering Groups with representatives meeting monthly from the OPW and Louth County Council, involves five distinct, sequential and related stages. The first stage involve assessing the flood risk and identifying options, followed by planning, detailed design, construction and maintenance. Public consultation forms part of each stage and project websites, available on floodinfo.ie provides updates on each scheme’s progress.
The Dundalk/Blackrock South and Ardee projects are being progressed simultaneously. The tender for Engineering and Environmental Consultancy Services was awarded in 2020 to a joint venture between Binnies (formerly Black and Veatch) and Nicholas O ‘Dwyer. The preliminary project cost estimate for these schemes is €80m and the proposed scheme will protect some 1,880 properties when completed. The scheme option for Dundalk/Blackrock South is expected in Q4 2023 and the scheme option for Ardee by the end of Q3 2023.
In relation to the Drogheda and Baltray schemes, the tender for Engineering and Environmental Consultancy Services was awarded to RPS Consulting Engineers Ltd in September 2021. The preliminary project cost estimate for these schemes is €35m and the proposed scheme will protect some 450 properties when completed. The scheme option is expected by the end of Q2 2024.
Consideration is being given as to how best to progress the Carlingford and Greenore schemes and the OPW will continue to liaise with Louth County Council.
Funding of just over €3.1million has been provided to Louth County Council across these major schemes since 2018.
As well as funding for major flood relief schemes, additional funding of €1.6m has been approved for Louth County Council under the OPW's Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme since 2009.
While the CFRAM process investigated possible structural flood relief measures for both Annagassan and Termonfeckin, economically viable schemes for these communities were not identified, and so a review of the risk in these communities and the likely costs and benefits is to be undertaken. The Office of Public Works has put in place a process for undertaking such Scheme Viability Reviews (SVRs), including those for Annagassan and Termonfeckin. The purpose of the SVRs is to determine whether or not potential schemes should be taken forward to the full Flood Relief Scheme (FRS) project stages. Once the outcome of the SVR is known OPW will discuss the results with Louth County Council.
138. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will outline the delays associated with the ministerial confirmation step for the Crossmolina flood relief scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1722/23]
View answerThe Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform is the consenting authority for flood relief schemes which prepared by the Office of Public Works under the Arterial Drainage Acts 1945 and 1995.
EU Directive 2011/92 obligates the consent authority (DPER) to undertake an independent assessment of the Environmental Impact Statement for flood relief schemes prepared by the OPW. EU Directive 2014/52 which harmonises the EIA process and brings about additional appropriate assessment (AA) responsibilities to the consent process for flood relief schemes is aimed at providing a high level of protection of the environment and human health.
Regarding the consent process for the River Deel (Crossmolina) Scheme, an initial round of public consultation was held beginning on the 1st December 2020 and concluding on the 11th January 2021. Following this period of public consultation, my Department sought additional information regarding the scheme from the Office of Public Works.
The OPW provided this information to the Department in July 2021. Having received supplementary information from OPW, it was necessary to hold a further period of consultation. My Department facilitated a second round of public consultation, inclusive of the supplemental information provided by the OPW, which commenced on 6th May 2022 and concluded on 1st July 2022.
Submissions made during the period of public consultation are being reviewed with the assistance of independent environmental consultants and this will inform a recommendation on whether to confirm the scheme. The Department has been advised that this work will be progressed by the consultants in early 2023.
139. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will review the powers granted to the Standards in Public Office Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2279/23]
View answerAn independent statutory body under the auspices of my Department, the Standards in Public Office Commission has supervisory roles under five separate pieces of legislation (as amended):
- the Ethics in Public Office Act 1995 and the Standards in Public Office Act 2001, (together “the Ethics Acts”);
- the Electoral Act 1997;
- the Ministerial and Parliamentary Offices Act 1938, as amended; and
- the Regulation of Lobbying Act 2015.
The Commission also has a role in investigating potential non-compliance with Part 15 of the Local Government Act 2001.
Policy responsibility for the Electoral and the Local Government Acts lies with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and I propose to concentrate in my reply on the legislation that is under the auspices of my Department.
In regard to the Ethics Acts, I am happy to inform the Deputy that the Department has just completed a review of the statutory framework in preparation for a major legislative reform of this area, which is in line with our Programme for Government commitment to “reform and consolidate the Ethics in Public Office legislation’. A report on the Review was submitted to Government by my predecessor Minister McGrath in December. The Government approved the Report ‘s publication and agreed to the preparation of a General Legislative Scheme informed by the Review's outcome. On foot of this, a draft legislative scheme will be prepared in consultation with relevant Ministers and brought to Government for approval to publish during 2023. The Review Report itself is currently being prepared for publication and it will issue shortly.
The Review considered input from key public sector stakeholders and notably the recommendations from the Standards in Public Office Commission, as well as submissions received during the public consultation, and international good practice.
The Government’s ultimate goal in this is to create a fit-for-purpose, easy to understand and user-friendly ethical framework that contributes to the quality and efficacy of our public administration.
In regard to lobbying, the Regulation of Lobbying (Amendment) Bill 2022, introduced last year by my predecessor and currently making its way through the Houses, seeks to amend the original 2015 Act in order to build on the existing strong legislative foundation and further strengthen Ireland’s lobbying laws, thus ensuring that the regulation of lobbying framework remains up to date and fit for purpose. In particular, this reform will:
- Improve the operation and functionality of the Lobbying Register;
- Strengthen the existing legislation and its enforcement; and
- Make failure to comply with the post-term employment restrictions set out in section 22 of the Act a relevant contravention under the Act.
140. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will publish a draft scheme of a new ethics Bill in quarter 1 of 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2204/23]
View answerI am happy to inform the Deputy that my Department has just completed a review of ethics legislation in preparation for a major legislative reform of this area, which is in line with our Programme for Government commitment to “reform and consolidate the Ethics in Public Office legislation’.
A report on the Review was submitted to Government by my predecessor Minister McGrath in December. The Government approved the Report‘s publication and agreed to the preparation of a General Legislative Scheme informed by the Review's outcome. On foot of this, a draft legislative scheme will be prepared in consultation with relevant Ministers and brought to Government for approval to publish during 2023. The Review Report itself is currently being prepared for publication and it will issue shortly.
As the Deputy may recall, my Department’s review of Ireland's statutory framework for standards in public office, which was agreed by the Government in September 2021, covered the following elements:
- A review of Ireland’s existing ethics legislative framework, including a reassessment of the 2015 Public Sector Standards Bill;
- A review of the recommendations of relevant tribunals of inquiry;
- A review of recommendations of the Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO) based on its operation of the current regime;
- Consultations with the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government on the local government aspects of a consolidated statutory regime;
- A review of current EU/International best practice; and
- Public Consultation - Consultations with various parties.
The Review considered input from key public sector stakeholders including the Departments of Justice and Housing and Local Government. It also engaged with the Dáil and Seanad Committees on Members Interests. It also considered recommendations from the Standards in Public Office Commission.
I can inform the Deputy that the recommendations in the Review Report broadly focus on five key themes:
- A legislative framework for Ethics to be underpinned by a set of overarching integrity principles
- New specific statutory prohibitions, including on the use of insider information
- Strengthening disclosures requirements to improve transparency and examining whether the regime should encompass more office holders
- Strengthening the Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO)
- Post-term employment restrictions for elected officials/public servants that address matters not already covered by lobbying regulation and should align closely with that legislation.
The Government’s ultimate goal is to create a fit-for-purpose, easy to understand and user-friendly ethical framework that contributes to the quality and efficacy of our public administration.
141. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans for 2023 for An Blascaod Mór; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1872/23]
View answerThe OPW’s involvement with An Blascaod Mór goes back to 1988 with Ionad an Bhlascaoid, (the Blasket Centre) being developed with assistance from the locally based voluntary group, Fondúíreacht an Bhlascaoid in 1992/3. The Centre was first officially opened to the public in April 1994 and was substantially refurbished ahead of a landmark re-opening in 2022. The centre continues to play a critical role in the cultural life of Dún Chaoin and is an important facility for the local community. It is also an important heritage visitor experience, operated by OPW, which celebrates and interprets the extraordinary literary legacy of the Great Blasket and as such, it makes a significant contribution to the economic and tourism agenda in West Kerry.
At An Blascaod Mór itself, the State purchased the majority of the land holdings in 2009. The OPW has provided a very successful guide service on the island since 2013, highlighting the heritage of the island for visitors. The OPW, with assistance from Fáilte Ireland, has also restored two houses on the island, including the home of the pre-eminent Blasket author, Tomás Ó Criomhthain. Further work is currently underway with a view to the further conservation of the largely abandoned island village.
In 2020 I opened a striking new ‘Viewing Platform’ at the Ionad site in Dún Chaoin, on a clifftop site overlooking the Blasket Sound. This project was funded by Fáilte Ireland and the OPW to create a unique way for visitors to experience the dramatic landscape of West Kerry. It connects with the headland walking routes which provide a safe way for visitors of all ages to enjoy the natural landscape. The Viewing Platform remains open year-round and is free of charge to access.
As part of this strategic programme of investment with Fáilte Ireland, Ionad an Bhlascaoid itself has been upgraded, incorporating a completely reimagined interpretive exhibition of world-class standard. I was delighted to open the new world-class visitor experience in June 2022, which is a flagship destination on the Wild Atlantic Way.
The conservation and protection of An Blascaod Mór continues to be of great importance to the OPW in order to secure safe access for visitors and to protect the unique landscape of the Island. A key element of this protection is a comprehensive Conservation Management Plan (CMP). There has been a plan in place since 2004 to fully document the heritage assets of the Island, outline a strategy for conserving and developing the Island and provide a ‘roadmap’ for the Island’s future, prioritising the most urgent work and setting out a clear vision for the Island over the coming decade. These plans are regularly reviewed to ensure that the protection of the Island continues to meet the highest standards of best practices.
The OPW will invite tenders for consultants to devise a new Conservation Management Plan (CMP), to continue to guide the development and care of the Island into the future. This plan will consider the elements of conservation, heritage protection, archaeology, transport planning, marine biology and environmental ecology in relation to the Island. The CMP will include a comprehensive inventory of the built and natural heritage of the Island, with reference to the Island’s status as a Special Area of Conservation and a Natura 2000 site and its unique role in Irish cultural heritage. Work has already been undertaken to survey ‘An Dáil’, one of the most significant structures on the island.
The provision of public conveniences on the Island is an ongoing challenge given the unique nature of the Island. The OPW continues to investigate options for the provision of public toilets and is investigating the feasibility of a number of options. OPW is preparing to seek quotes from suitably qualified professionals to assess the suitability of potential locations on the island for such facilities. Toilets were successfully provided on Skellig Michael for the first time in 2022, and the learning from that project will inform the considerations on An Blascaod Mór.
Regarding the seal colony and other biodiversity on An Blascaod Mór, the vast majority of people who visit the island are conscious of the need to be careful not to cause any damage or disturbance to either the built heritage, wildlife and the natural environment. Visitor boat services will re-commence in April 2023 subject to weather conditions. During this off-season period the OPW is drafting a comprehensive information leaflet which will outline the necessary steps to protect the native seals and birdlife, in particular the vulnerable Manx Shearwater. It is anticipated that every visitor to the island will be provided with this leaflet prior to disembarking on the island. A Biodiversity study commissioned by the OPW in 2022 is nearing completion and the outputs of this study will inform the island's ongoing conservation strategies.
The OPW team will also co-ordinate with ferry operators to ensure that all visitors receive up to date conservation information before they disembark on the island.
I note the Deputy's continued interest in improved landing facilities where boats could embark and disembark passengers directly to the island. These facilities are an essential element in the sustainable management of the island from heritage, tourism, safety and environmental perspective.
Planning permission for a pier was previously granted in 2003, but Kerry County Council have advised that is necessary to secure fresh planning permission, given that there have been significant changes in the designated status of the island and in environmental regulations in the period since the original permission was granted. This will necessitate updated environmental and other reports to support such an application, as well as the preparation of a detailed updated design for the project. The OPW continues to engage with the relevant stakeholders to consider the key challenges in undertaking this project.
My most recent visit to the Island was on 19th September, where I was accompanied by the Deputy, and I will continue to work with the local community to continue to protect the Island and in supporting sustainable tourism to share the unique culture of the Island with visitors.
142. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an update on the flood relief scheme in Bantry, County Cork. [2093/23]
View answerI am advised that the Flood Risk Management Plans launched in May 2018 included a recommendation to progress the design, planning and construction of a flood relief scheme for Bantry. A Steering Group, comprising of representatives from the Office of Public Works and Cork County Council, is in place to progress this Flood Relief Scheme that will protect some 198 properties.
In February 2022, J.B. Barry and Partners Ltd in a joint venture with JBA Consulting Ltd were appointed by Cork County Council as engineering and environmental consultants to carry out the design of a viable scheme for the town. The scheme development and design is progressing with environmental surveys continuing in the area. Topographical surveys (including river and threshold surveys) were undertaken in 2022. The hydrological modelling is largely complete and hydraulic modelling has commenced. Monitoring equipment including an additional rain gauge and river level gauge were installed in December 2022 and January 2023 respectively. The Site Investigation Contractor has now been appointed and work is commencing this week. The Contract also includes site investigation works related to the Bantry Mill Culvert Upgrade Project.
Consultation with statutory and non-statutory bodies, as well as the public, will take place at the appropriate stages to ensure that all parties have the opportunity to input into the development of the scheme. A project website is available at ‘www.bantryfrs.ie’. A number of Public Participation Days (PPD) will be held throughout the delivery stages of the project. The initial PPD was held in May 2022. A second PPD is scheduled to take place in Q3 2023 when the public can provide feedback on the flood relief options, which will be presented by the project team.
In tandem with progressing this scheme, Cork County Council are to progress the repair and re-construction of a culvert on Main Street, Bantry, Bantry Mill Culvert Upgrade Project. An application for a Section 50 has been submitted to the OPW for approval. Cork County Council is currently addressing some queries and once approval for the Section 50 is granted a tender for Consultancy Services for the detailed design and construction of the culvert will be advertised. The culvert has been identified as a significant element contributing to flooding on Main Street, New Street and north and south of Wolfe Tone Square in recent months. The OPW and Cork County Council are liaising on the integration of these works with the flood relief scheme for the town.
Under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme my office approved a total of €183,917 in funding to Cork County Council for interim works to mitigate flooding in Bantry. The installation of non-return valves on gullies and the storm pipe non-return valves have been completed. There has also been sandbags purchased for deployment in case of forecasted extreme weather events.
Separately, Cork County Council is working on developing an Individual Property Protection Scheme for Bantry. Expressions of interest for the scheme were requested, with positive responses received. Surveys of the properties which would benefit from Individual Property Protection are ongoing. These surveys need to be completed before issuing agreements for signing to all interested property owners. Once this has been completed an application for further funding under the OPW's Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme scheme can be applied for.
143. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the amount of funds that went unspent in 2022 per Department; if he will outline the process regarding the return of such moneys to his Department; the amount of funds that will be carried over and retained by each Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2346/23]
View answerAs per the end-December issues from the Exchequer, gross voted expenditure was €88.8 billion. This level of resources enabled continued investment in public services and substantial increases in capital investment and delivery through the National Development Plan (NDP).
In 2022 current expenditure increased by €247 million or 0.3% compared to 2021. This reflects a number of developments including significant increases in core spending, additional funding allocated for cost of living supports and humanitarian support for people fleeing the war in Ukraine. However, the total increase is moderated by significant reductions in Covid-19 related expenditure. Capital expenditure grew by €982 million or 9.9% in 2022 as the increased investment under the NDP continues to support sectors including housing, education, transport and climate action.
Following Supplementary Estimates, almost €90.7 billion in gross voted expenditure was allocated to Departments and Agencies in 2022. Compared to this allocation, the total gross spending outturn was €1.9 billion or 2.1% lower. This underspend related primarily to the Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (€0.65bn) under Enterprise, Trade and Employment as the scheme was only opened to applicants in December 2022; lower than forecast spending on some Social Protection schemes (€0.2bn); and capital under spending in Environment, Climate and Communications (€0.3bn) and Housing, Local Government and Heritage (€0.2 billion).
The amounts of gross funding, by Ministerial Vote Group, unspent in 2022 is set out in the table below. These figures were published in the December Fiscal Monitor which is available online at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/9fd27-fiscal-monitor-december-2022/. The Fiscal Monitor also provides a breakdown by current and capital spending, a comparison against 2021 spending levels and net issues figures.
Only the amounts that are expected to be spent in the year, and capital carryover to the following year, are submitted by Votes to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform as part of their issues figures. Where funds allocated through Estimates voted by the Dáil are not required by Departments or agencies at the end of the year, these are not issued to Votes and remain in the Exchequer. December issues figures are preliminary amounts and final audited expenditure figures for 2022 will be available later in the year when Appropriation Accounts are finalised by the Comptroller and Auditor General.
The end-December Fiscal Monitor figures include capital being carried over into 2023 of €687 million. The rolling multi-annual capital envelopes introduced in 2004 allow Departments to carryover of up to 10% of unspent voted capital expenditure from the current year into the next year. The provision of the capital carryover facility recognises the fundamental difficulties in the planning, procurement and profiling of capital expenditure and acknowledges that, for any number of reasons, capital projects may be subject to delays. The amounts carried over and available to spend in 2023 are shown to the nearest million in the table below.
|
Ministerial Vote Group |
2022 Gross Variance from Profile |
Capital Carryover from 2022 into 2023 |
|
€m |
€m |
|
|
AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND THE MARINE |
-44 |
28 |
|
CHILDREN, EQUALITY, DISABILITY, INTEGRATION AND YOUTH |
-77 |
- |
|
DEFENCE |
-2 |
- |
|
EDUCATION |
-30 |
- |
|
ENTERPRISE, TRADE AND EMPLOYMENT |
-674 |
55 |
|
ENVIRONMENT, CLIMATE AND COMMUNICATIONS |
-301 |
- |
|
FINANCE |
-6 |
0.1 |
|
FOREIGN AFFAIRS |
-4 |
2 |
|
FURTHER AND HIGHER EDUCATION, RESEARCH, INNOVATION AND SCIENCE |
-25 |
55 |
|
HEALTH |
-29 |
- |
|
HOUSING, LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND HERITAGE |
-244 |
341 |
|
JUSTICE |
-46 |
5 |
|
PUBLIC EXPENDITURE AND REFORM |
-65 |
28 |
|
RURAL AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT |
-2 |
15 |
|
SOCIAL PROTECTION |
-238 |
1 |
|
TAOISEACH'S |
-31 |
n/a |
|
TOURISM, CULTURE, ARTS, GAELTACHT, SPORT AND MEDIA |
-39 |
20 |
|
TRANSPORT |
-38 |
138 |
|
Total Gross Voted Expenditure |
-1,896 |
687 |
144. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his views on the delivery of key Project Ireland 2040 commitments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1636/23]
View answerAs Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery, and Reform I am responsible for setting the overall capital allocations across Departments. Management and delivery of individual investment projects within the allocations agreed under the NDP is a key responsibility of every Department and Minister. In relation to the changed name for my Department, I am currently examining the support structures and levers available across Government in order to maximise delivery of vital infrastructure such as housing, schools, hospitals, roads and public transport. All options to improve delivery and ensure that capital allocations are best utilised will be examined early in 2023, with necessary reforms to be implemented shortly after.
The National Development Plan 2021 – 2030 (NDP), together with the National Planning Framework (NPF), combine to form Project Ireland 2040, which sets the overarching spatial strategy for the next twenty years for the social, economic and cultural development of Ireland.
The NDP published in October 2021 provides a detailed and positive vision for Ireland over the next 10 years and delivers total public investment of €165 billion over the period 2021-2030. The NDP establishes the Government’s over-arching investment framework and broad direction for investment priorities for this decade. The NDP also set out the range of actions that are being taken to strengthen delivery, maximise value for money and ensure to the greatest extent possible that projects are delivered on time, on budget and with the benefits targeted at the outset.
In 2023, over €12 billion will be made available from the Exchequer for investment in public capital projects, which will provide more schools, homes, hospitals and other pieces of vital infrastructure. This level of expenditure will be pivotal in consolidating the progress already made, and, most importantly, delivering the necessary infrastructure to support our future climate change obligations as well as our social and economic requirements.
The Project Ireland 2040 Delivery Board oversees the delivery of the NDP and in 2022, five external members were appointed to the Board to bring additional expert knowledge, independent and regional perspectives, and an enhanced challenge function to the deliberations of the Board.
Two initiatives were introduced to strengthen the assurance process for major public investment projects to provide more structured scrutiny. An External Assurance Process (EAP), to provide independent scrutiny for major public capital projects over €100 million and the establishment of the Major Projects Advisory Group (MPAG) who scrutinise project proposals and external reviews as a prerequisite to seeking Government approval for major projects.
The Government is also committed to continue to detail the delivery of the NDP at regular intervals into the future to allow for full transparency on the implementation of Project Ireland 2040. This will be achieved through regular updates of the Project Ireland 2040 capital investment tracker and map as well as the publication of annual reports and regional reports highlighting Project Ireland 2040 achievements and giving a detailed overview of the public investments that have been made throughout the country.
