Jennifer Murnane O'Connor
Question:61. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he spoke with the UK opposition leader during his recent visit to the UK. [39100/23]
View answerOfficial Engagements
Questions (61)
Written answers
I visited London and Oxford in early September, which gave me the opportunity to continue my engagements with a wide range of stakeholders in the United Kingdom.
On this occasion I visited the London Irish Centre, who do valuable work in support of the Irish community and where I had the opportunity to meet Irish community leaders from across London.
I then travelled to Oxford to attend the British-Irish Association’s annual conference, where I delivered the opening address. The annual BIA conference is an opportunity to reflect on relationships across these islands, and on the continuing journey of peace and reconciliation underpinned by the Good Friday Agreement. I was pleased that the conference once again saw high-level attendance by UK government representatives, senior opposition politicians, as well as politicians from Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
I continue to prioritise regular engagement with a wide range of UK political figures, in government and in opposition, as we further our work to strengthen British-Irish relations in a post-Brexit context. I did not, however, meet with Keir Starmer, the Leader of the Opposition, during this recent visit.
Passport Services
Questions (62)
Paul Kehoe
Question:62. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if a person (details supplied) has a current valid passport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39195/23]
View answerWritten answers
The Passport Service can only confirm whether a minor has a current valid passports to legal guardians of the child. If a guardian wishes make such an enquiry, they can contact the Passport Service Customer Service Hub at 01 671 1633. They will need to provide proof of guardianship in order to receive this information.
International Relations
Questions (63)
Catherine Connolly
Question:63. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the full final cost of the Consultative Forum on International Security Policy, in tabular form, to include all costs, and associated costs, including the cost of policing and security, the use of locations, and the cost of Department staff involvement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39215/23]
View answerWritten answers
With a growing focus on security and defence issues across Europe and at national level, in June of this year, I convened a national Consultative Forum on International Security Policy. The aim of the Forum, which marked the first occasion on which the State has ever embarked on a national conversation on these issues in this manner, was to provide an opportunity for a serious and honest debate about the international security policy options available to us and the implications of each of these.
The Forum was a broad discussion, looking at Ireland’s work to protect the rules-based international order, new and emerging threats, our current and future engagement in the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), as well as our relationship with NATO through the Partnership for Peace.
The Forum took place over four days in Cork, Galway and Dublin, and saw over 80 panellists moderating or speaking while approximately 1,000 people registered to attend these events in person. All discussions were live-streamed with over 10,000 online viewers accessing the live-stream during the Forum. An open public consultation also took place between 31 May and 7 July and received over 800 submissions.
Costs related to the Forum are split on an equal basis between the Department of Defence and the Department of Foreign Affairs. The contribution by the Department of Foreign Affairs will be made from within existing resources in Vote 28 (Foreign Affairs).
Expenditure related to the Forum is in line with prevailing Public Spending Code guidelines and every effort was made to ensure related value-for-money objectives were met.
Where final figures are available they are listed below. There are a small number of outstanding anticipated expenses that are still to be received and where this arises it is noted below. The final costs will be available once all payments have been submitted and processed.
An honorarium will be paid to the Chairperson of the Consultative Forum at a per diem rate sanctioned by the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform.
The Cork and Galway events were held in partnership with University College Cork and the University of Galway respectively. The events in Dublin were held in Dublin Castle. Costs associated with the operation of these venues during the Forum are a matter for the Universities and the Office of Public Works respectively.
Costs in relation to An Garda Síochána support to the Forum are a matter for the Department of Justice.
All salary costs in relation to staff are provided from within existing pay allocations on the Department of Foreign Affairs. Costs in relation to staff from the Department of Defence are a matter for that Department.
|
Description |
Cost € |
|
Accommodation (Panellists and Staff) |
25,445.00 |
|
Catering |
47,285.29 |
|
Communications, stationary, printing and branding |
44,408.55* |
|
Event management and security |
6,765.00 |
|
Interpretation |
4,069.75 |
|
Panellist travel and subsistence |
18,696.76* |
|
Technical/Audio Visual including closed captioning |
30,993.54* |
|
Venue Set-Up (3 Venues) |
18,645.59 |
*Indicates that costs are not final
International Relations
Questions (64)
Catherine Connolly
Question:64. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to clarify if a policy change took place from the use of the term UN multilateralism to rules-based international order; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39216/23]
View answerWritten answers
A commitment to strengthening the global multilateral system is a consistent focus of both Ireland’s foreign policy, and the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy. This is reflected in the government’s core foreign policy statements, including The Global Island: Ireland’s Foreign Policy for a Changing World, A Better World: Ireland’s Policy for International Development and The Department of Foreign Affairs Statement of Strategy, 2023 to 2025. The Treaty on European Union also states that the Union’s action on the international scene shall be guided by the principles which have inspired its own creation, including respect for the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.
The concept of a rules-based international order is widely understood to refer to the series of international laws, legal principles, rules, norms and institutions which have facilitated and regulated international interactions and multilateral cooperation in the modern era. In this regard, it is important to say that the idea of rules-based international order is intended to refer to the universal body of commitments and obligations that make up the international multilateral system, and which allow countries to cooperate with one another on a vast array of issues including trade, development and sectoral partnership and coordination, and to which all, or the vast majority, of states have subscribed. In that sense, while the UN Charter and international law are an integral part of this, they do not constitute it alone.
This body of international laws, legal principles, rules, norms and institutions has facilitated and regulated Ireland’s peaceful cooperation with other countries for decades, as part of multilateral organisations such as the UN, and has and will remain a core component of the country’s foreign and security policy.
The terms mentioned by the Deputy, are in this sense, not mutually exclusive and the government will continue to act to uphold the rules-based international order, with the UN Charter at its heart, that underpins Ireland’s security, and promotes stability, justice, equality and sustainable development.
Climate Change Policy
Questions (65)
Matt Carthy
Question:65. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount allocated to climate finance in each of the years 2020 to date, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39279/23]
View answerWritten answers
International climate finance is a priority for the Government and for Ireland’s foreign policy. The Government is working to implement Ireland’s Climate Finance Roadmap (2022) which aims to provide at least €225 million per year in international climate finance by 2025. This target was announced by the then Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, at COP 26 held in Glasgow in November 2021. The Roadmap reasserts Ireland’s commitment to support some of the most vulnerable developing countries in adapting to the impacts of climate change and building longer term climate resilience.
The Government reports Ireland's climate finance expenditure on an annual basis under the provisions of the EU Governance Regulation, in line with the reporting requirements of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and with reporting guidance provided by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development. The Department of Foreign Affairs produces an annual climate finance report, which provides information on the sources of finance, the thematic and geographic focus of funding and the channels through which funding is provided. These reports are available on the Irish Aid website. Over the past decade, Ireland has steadily increased its international climate finance. Between 2016 and 2021, it has grown by 40%.
The table provided below indicates Ireland’s international climate finance in 2020 and 2021.
|
Year |
Total Climate Finance spent by DFA |
Ireland’s total Climate Finance |
|
2020 |
€63,646,062 |
€ 88,341,096 |
|
2021 |
€57,130,254 |
€99,618,603 |
The figures for Ireland’s climate finance for 2022 will be published later in 2023.
Ireland’s international climate finance is provided by four Government Departments: Foreign Affairs; Environment, Climate and Communications; Finance; and Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Climate finance provided by the Department of Foreign Affairs is sourced from Official Development Assistance, under Vote 27, and targets climate-related activities in vulnerable developing countries.
Northern Ireland
Questions (66)
Brendan Smith
Question:66. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the outcome of his most recent discussions with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and the Foreign Secretary concerning legacy issues with particular reference to the totally unacceptable Legacy Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39304/23]
View answerWritten answers
The UK government's unilateral Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy & Reconciliation) Bill will shortly enter into law.
Since the Bill's publication, the Government, together with all the main political parties in Northern Ireland, victims and their representatives, church leaders and civic society, has consistently expressed strong opposition to the approach to dealing with the past which the UK government proposes.
At my most recent with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris, in the margins of the British Irish Association, on 2 September in Oxford, I again reiterated the Government's strong concern that the Bill would not, in our view, deal with legacy issues in a fit for purpose way. It is our view that the approach proposed is not compliant with the European Convention on Human Rights and would damage reconciliation efforts in Northern Ireland. This a message which I have conveyed to the Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly, and as Taoiseach to a number of Prime Ministers. The UK government is aware that Ireland's preferred approach to dealing with these issues would that agreed by the two Governments, together with Northern Irish leaders, at Stormont House. I
I am aware of calls for consideration of the initiation of an inter-state case against the United Kingdom before the European Court of Human Rights in relation to the UK Legacy Bill. Many of those calls come from elected members of this House. As the Taoiseach and I have stated in the last number of days, the Government have sought legal advice on this matter, and when that advice is received the Government will consider what subsequent action will be taken.
Northern Ireland
Questions (67)
Brendan Smith
Question:67. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs when the next meeting of the British/Irish Intergovernmental Conference will take place; the issues to be discussed at that meeting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39310/23]
View answerWritten answers
The British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference will meet in Dublin on 28 November, the third meeting of the Conference this year following meetings in London in June and Dublin in January. The Conference was established under Strand Three of the Good Friday Agreement to promote bilateral cooperation at all levels on all matters of mutual interest within the competence of the British and Irish Governments.
The British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference offers is a forum for discussion of vital issues which impact on the everyday lives of citizens across these islands, but with a focus on Northern Ireland. Officials in the standing Secretariat prepare the agenda. In 2023, issues including security, energy cooperation, cybersecurity and education have been discussed at the Conference.
While the agenda for the November Conference has yet to be finalised, the two Governments agreed during both of the Conferences in 2023 on the critical importance of the restoration of the Assembly and Executive as well as the North South Ministerial Council. While I sincerely hope that the devolved institutions are restored before November, if they are not, the Conference will provide an important forum for discussion of the responsibilities of the two Governments in those circumstances.
At a time when the Strand One and Strand Two institutions of the Good Friday Agreement have been prevented from functioning effectively, it is vital that the work of Strand Three, including the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference, continues to provide a positive forum for the two Governments to strengthen the East West relationship.
Northern Ireland
Questions (68)
Brendan Smith
Question:68. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his most recent meetings with the political parties in Northern Ireland concerning the need to have the Assembly and Executive restored without further delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39311/23]
View answerWritten answers
The restoration of the devolved power-sharing institutions in Northern Ireland, and the North South Ministerial Council, continues to be of utmost importance to the Government.
It is clear that the ongoing absence of an Executive and Assembly is having a detrimental effect on people, business and society in Northern Ireland. People in Northern Ireland deserve to be represented by the politicians that they elected in May 2022.
I remain in regular contact with the Northern Ireland political parties. I met a number of party representatives in the margins of the British Irish Association in Oxford on 1 - 2 September. This followed upon in person meetings with party leaders in June, and regular telephone calls, most recently at the end of July. In all these discussions I urged all parties to allow the restoration of the institutions, so that the issues facing people in Northern Ireland can be addressed. I will continue to engage with the Northern Ireland parties, and with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, in the coming weeks to support the process of restoring the Executive and Assembly.
The absence of a functioning Executive has knock-on effects on the operation of Strand Two of the Agreement. I am deeply concerned that the work of the North South Ministerial Council (NSMC) has been severely disrupted in recent years. In the absence of regular NSMC meetings, the two Administrations on the island are not having the important conversations that we should be having to address shared challenges and opportunities. It is vital that the Council is allowed to continue its work as soon as possible.
The Government is a co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement and that is a responsibility i take seriously. I will continue to work in support of the devolved power-sharing institutions in Northern Ireland and the full implementation of all of the Strands of the Good Friday Agreement.
Íocaíochtaí Deontas
Questions (69)
Éamon Ó Cuív
Question:69. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív den Aire Comhshaoil, Aeráide agus Cumarsáide an n-aontaíonn sé gur chóir go mbeadh saoránach in ann iarratas trí Ghaeilge a dhéanamh ar na deontais atá ar fáil ó Údarás Fuinnimh Inmharthana na hÉireann chun astaíochtaí gás ceaptha teasa a laghdú; agus an bhféachfaidh sé chuige go mbeidh an rogha sin ar fáil do phobal na Gaeltachta agus d'aon saoránach eile ar mian leo cur isteach ar na deontais atá ar fáil ó Údarás Fuinnimh Inmharthana na hÉireann [37195/23]
View answerWritten answers
Tá an tÚdarás Fuinnimh Inmharthana na hÉireann laistigh de théarmaí tagartha Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 arna leasú in 2021.
• Cuireann an tÚdarás fáilte roimh comhfhreagras i nGaeilge.
• Foilsíonn an tÚdarás an Tuarascáil Bhliantúil agus a chuid stráitéisí i mBéarla agus i nGaeilge.
• Tá stáiseanóireacht, comharthaíochta agus postfhógráiocht an Údaráis i mBéarla agus i nGaeilge.
• Cuireann an tÚdarás an sciar éigeantach ar a laghad dá fhógraíocht ar fáil trí Ghaeilge.
• Maidir le hiarratas a dhéanamh trí Ghaeilge ar na deontais atá ar fail, tá an tÚdarás ag féachaint faoi láthair ar an gcaoi is éifeachtúla agus is éifeachtaí chun na hoibleagáidí faoin Acht Leasuithe 2021 a thabhairt isteach dá chórais.
Energy Policy
Questions (70)
Peter Burke
Question:70. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if there are any plans on the future use of hydrogen as an alternative fuel in Ireland (details supplied). [37204/23]
View answerWritten answers
The National Hydrogen Strategy, published in July 2023, sets out the role that hydrogen is envisioned to play in our energy system. It covers all aspects of the value chain including production, transportation and storage, as well as the end use sectors in which hydrogen is envisioned to play a role.
National Broadband Plan
Questions (71)
Claire Kerrane
Question:71. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will provide an update on broadband and mobile connectivity in Brideswell, Athlone; if he will advise what measures have been taken to address ongoing issues with mobile phone signal in the area; if he will confirm if broadband roll-out for the area will be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37242/23]
View answerWritten answers
My Department's High Speed Broadband Map, which is available at www.broadband.gov.ie, shows the areas included in the National Broadband Plan (NBP) State led intervention as well as areas targeted by commercial operators. The map is colour coded and searchable by address and Eircode. Premises in the AMBER area will be provided with high-speed broadband through the State led Intervention. The BLUE area represents those areas where commercial providers are either currently delivering or have plans to deliver high speed broadband services.
BLUE areas are not included in the State intervention area covered by the National Broadband Plan as commercial operators are already providing high-speed broadband or have indicated future plans to do so. My Department defines high-speed broadband as a connection with minimum speeds of 30Mbps download and 6Mbps upload.
Officials in my Department have advised that the area referred to in the Question, which is an extensively BLUE area, currently has 2 commercial operators providing full fibre services to many of the homes and businesses in the location. Any premises yet to be enabled for fibre will be catered for as part of commercial fibre rollouts currently underway.
Providing telecommunication services, including mobile phone, is a matter for the relevant service providers operating in a fully liberalised market regulated by the Commission for Communication Regulation (ComReg), as independent Regulator.
Operational matters of private commercial operators, including in relation to signals in specific areas, are a matter for these commercial operators and not one in which I have any function.
In December 2022, my Department published Ireland's Digital Connectivity Strategy which supports the ambition outlined in the National Digital Strategy and sets out a number of ambitious targets, including that:
• all Irish households and businesses will be covered by a Gigabit network no later than 2028;
• all populated areas will be covered by 5G no later than 2030, and
• digital connectivity will be delivered to all schools and broadband connection points by 2023.
The National Broadband Plan intervention contract provides for the roll out of a high speed and future-proofed broadband network to primarily rural areas. The intervention area covers over 1.1 million people living and working in over 560,000 premises, including almost 100,000 businesses and farms along with some 679 schools.
These targets will be achieved through commercial operators investing in their networks, complemented by the State’s National Broadband Plan intervention. When taken together, all premises in the State will have access to high-speed broadband in every part of the country no matter how remote.
Just Transition
Questions (72)
Jennifer Whitmore
Question:72. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications for a progress update on the establishment of a just transition commission; the timeline for its delivery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37272/23]
View answerWritten answers
The Government has adopted, through the Climate Action Plan 2023 (CAP23), a framework for a just transition, comprising four principles:
An integrated, structured, and evidence-based approach to identify and plan our response to just climate transition requirements.
People are equipped with the right skills to be able to participate in and benefit from the future net zero economy.
The costs are shared so that the impact is equitable and existing inequalities are not exacerbated.
Social dialogue to ensure impacted citizens and communities are empowered and are core to the transition process.
As set out in CAP 2023, all relevant Ministers should consider this framework in the process of climate action policy formulation and implementation, so that policies are informed by the need to ensure a just transition. This includes creating sustainable employment opportunities, providing reskilling and retraining opportunities, and providing appropriate supports for those most vulnerable as part of Ireland’s transition to a climate neutral economy.
Work has also continued, as committed to in Climate Action Plan 2023, on examining and addressing the sectoral implications of this just transition framework. The National Economic and Social Council (NESC) report, Just Transition in Agriculture and Land Use, which was published in July, set out a series of recommendations on ensuring socially- and farmer-inclusive transition processes, enabling people to benefit from the opportunities of transition, as well as mitigating and sharing the costs of transition. The report will be a key resource for the second phase of the Land Use Review and its recommendations will be considered in the development of the next iteration of the Climate Action Plan.
I have continued to engage with relevant stakeholders to inform my approach to the mandate of the Just Transition Commission, including through the National Climate Stakeholder Forum, the most recent meeting of which took place on 10 May last. On foot of a commitment in Climate Action Plan 2023, I am establishing a Just Transition Taskforce, comprising representatives of the key social dialogue pillars (employers, trades unions, farming groups, social NGOs, and environmental NGOs), as well as a representative of NESC, to support the Just Transition Commission in its mandate, including recommending a proposed approach to Government on how the Just Transition Commission should be constituted. It is expected that the taskforce will commence its work in September, with a view to delivering its recommendations in relation to the establishment of a Just Transition Commission by early 2024.
Climate Change Policy
Questions (73)
Jennifer Whitmore
Question:73. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications for a progress report on the establishment of a climate delivery taskforce, as outlined in CAP23; the timeline for its delivery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37273/23]
View answerWritten answers
The establishment of climate delivery taskforces were Climate Action Plan 2023 actions GV/23/2/B to GV/23/2/K for delivery in Quarter 2 2023.
Progress on the implementation of all Quarter 2 actions, including actions GV/23/2/B to GV/23/2/K, is publicly available on the Gov.ie website in the Quarter 2 Climate Action Plan Progress Report: gov.ie - Climate Action Plan Progress Reports (www.gov.ie).
Energy Infrastructure
Questions (74)
Jennifer Whitmore
Question:74. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to provide details of the number of homes that have a smart meter installed on a county-by-county basis; the number of those homes who have signed up for a smart tariff on a county-by-county basis; the cost to date of the smart meter roll-out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37276/23]
View answerWritten answers
The National Smart Metering Programme will roll out and install 2.4 million meters by 2024 and in the process make available new products and services to energy consumers. It is co-ordinated by the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities (CRU) with ESB Networks (ESBN) delivering the electricity meter rollout.
The meter rollout is taking place on a phased basis, with around 10,000 meters installed each week. The total number of smart meters installed at present is over 1.42 million. The focus to date is on, replacing single phase, 24 hour register meters. The replacement of Day/Night meters and 24 hour register 3 phase meters is due to begin in Q4 2023.
ESBN plan smart meter installations across its planner group network; meter exchanges started in five planner groups at the end of 2023 and since February 2023 exchanges have been occurring in every group nationwide. The following is the geographic breakdown of the installation process, as of 1st September 2023:
|
Planner Group |
Total |
Eligible 1ph |
Installed |
|
Arklow |
48,365 |
36,901 |
31,555 |
|
Athlone |
54,530 |
43,318 |
24,841 |
|
Ballina |
36,254 |
29,564 |
15,389 |
|
Bandon |
46,707 |
35,630 |
33,239 |
|
Castlebar |
37,547 |
28,766 |
12,955 |
|
Cavan |
67,695 |
53,415 |
33,291 |
|
Clonmel |
44,461 |
34,512 |
24,199 |
|
Cork |
121,741 |
96,798 |
88,313 |
|
Drogheda |
60,226 |
49,191 |
45,430 |
|
Dublin Central |
239,705 |
163,916 |
113,172 |
|
Dublin North |
301,980 |
244,369 |
191,512 |
|
Dublin South |
209,897 |
164,175 |
150,371 |
|
Dundalk |
44,639 |
36,682 |
32,588 |
|
Dunmanway |
31,962 |
23,309 |
18,913 |
|
Ennis |
53,969 |
41,860 |
36,350 |
|
Enniscorthy |
66,038 |
50,605 |
38,751 |
|
Fermoy |
60,529 |
47,712 |
41,931 |
|
Galway |
71,040 |
47,634 |
35,644 |
|
Kilkenny |
56,746 |
44,370 |
37,990 |
|
Killarney |
49,854 |
37,964 |
31,647 |
|
Killybegs |
38,248 |
32,043 |
17,046 |
|
Letterkenny |
59,943 |
50,061 |
27,126 |
|
Limerick |
61,908 |
46,495 |
41,033 |
|
Longford |
41,587 |
32,125 |
11,309 |
|
Mullingar |
51,882 |
41,175 |
32,462 |
|
Newcastlewest |
39,283 |
30,421 |
26,002 |
|
Portlaoise |
54,629 |
43,272 |
39,904 |
|
Roscrea |
43,905 |
34,453 |
19,558 |
|
Sligo |
62,412 |
48,570 |
41,414 |
|
Tipperary |
40,795 |
31,548 |
22,158 |
|
Tralee |
49,002 |
35,636 |
28,109 |
|
Tuam |
43,017 |
34,853 |
13,326 |
|
Tullamore |
54,923 |
43,469 |
37,539 |
|
Waterford |
56,099 |
42,011 |
32,903 |
|
Total |
2,401,518 |
1,856,823 |
1,427,970 |
The investment spend up to June 2023 totalled €527m, with the total cost of the 6-year rollout is estimated to be approximately €1.2bn.
The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) monitors the uptake of smart tariffs across the retail electricity market, and provided the following figures as of end of April 2023:
• Customers availing of smart data services: 181,094 (14.2% of those then with smart meters)
• Customers on a ‘time of use’ tariff: 94,061 (7.4% of those then with smart meters)
• As the rollout of the National Smart Metering Programme is co-ordinated by CRU and the ESBN, the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications does not maintain oversight on the day-to-day of Smart Metering. In terms of more detailed area specific information on the National Smart Metering Programme, CRU provides a dedicated email address for Oireachtas members, at oireachtas@cru.ie for timely direct reply.
Energy Conservation
Questions (75, 76, 195, 196)
Jennifer Whitmore
Question:75. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of homes upgraded to BER B2 under SEAI retrofitting schemes to date in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37277/23]
View answerJennifer Whitmore
Question:76. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of heat pumps installed to date in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37278/23]
View answerJennifer Whitmore
Question:195. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of homes upgraded to BER B2 under SEAI retrofitting schemes to date in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39345/23]
View answerJennifer Whitmore
Question:196. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of heat pumps installed to date in 2023 in existing homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39346/23]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 75, 76, 195 and 196 together.
The National Retrofit Plan sets out the Government's approach to achieving the Climate Action Plan targets of upgrading the equivalent of 500,000 homes to a Building Energy Rating (BER) of B2/cost optimal level and installing 400,000 heat pumps to replace older, less efficient heating systems by 2030.
My Department funds a number of schemes to support households to improve the energy efficiency of their properties. SEAI administer these schemes on behalf of my Department. To promote and incentivise the achievement of these targets, in February 2022, the Government launched a package of significantly enhanced supports to make it easier and more affordable for homeowners to undertake home energy upgrades.
Since the introduction of the new measures, demand for the SEAI Schemes has been exceptionally high. Last year saw 27,200 home energy upgrades. This represents a 79% increase on 2021 levels.
A record €356 million in funding has been allocated to SEAI for residential and community retrofit, including Solar PV, for 2023 to support the delivery of 37,000 home energy upgrades this year.
Figures to end of August 2023 show:
• Almost 30,000 home energy upgrades have been supported so far this year (up 124% on August 2022);
• Over 10,600 BER B2 upgrades completed (up 178% on August 2022);
• Almost 3,500 fully funded energy upgrades for low-income households (up 27% on August 2022);
• 2,435 Heat Pump installations (up 84% on August 2022)
• SEAI has published quarterly reports for the first two quarters of 2023 which are available on their website and provide more detail in relation to the retrofits carried out under SEAI schemes in the first half of the year. A report for the third quarter will be published in October.
Question No. 76 answered with Question No. 75.
Energy Conservation
Questions (77, 147, 197)
Jennifer Whitmore
Question:77. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of applications for the SEAI warmer homes grant to date in 2023; the current average length of time persons are waiting for SEAI warmer homes grant works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37279/23]
View answer
Róisín Shortall
Question:147. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications whether he is aware that the current waiting time with the Sustainable Energy Association of Ireland between application and completion of works under the free energy upgrade scheme is in the region of 24 months; if he is taking steps to improve the situation and reduce the waiting time; if not, the reason; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38627/23]
View answerJennifer Whitmore
Question:197. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of homes upgraded under SEAI energy poverty schemes this year to date; if he will provide a breakdown of works undertaken under those schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39347/23]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 77, 147 and 197 together.
The Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme delivers a range of energy efficiency measures free of charge to low-income households vulnerable to energy poverty. The primary aim of the scheme is to provide upgrades to those living in, or at risk of, energy poverty. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) operates the scheme on behalf of my Department. Delivering free energy upgrades to low-income households as quickly as possible is a top priority for my Department and the SEAI.
Increased awareness of the multiple benefits of retrofit and improvements to the Warmer Homes Scheme are driving increased levels of demand for the scheme. This can be seen in application numbers with over 9,900 applications received in 2022 and over 10,000 additional applications received up until the end of August this year alone.
It should be noted that the scheme has been delivering a greater volume of deeper and more complex upgrades in recent years. This is reflected in the average cost of upgrades which have increased from €2,600 in 2015 to €24,000 in 2023. The increase in depth of retrofit is also reflected in the waiting times as more significant works take a longer time per home to complete. It also is important to note that the scheme was also impacted significantly by construction sector closures and restrictions on home visits associated with COVID-19 in recent years which resulted in a build up of applications.
To date in 2023, 3,434 homes have been upgraded. The upgrades that will be recommended for a property will depend on many factors, including age, size, type and condition of the property. For each eligible home, SEAI’s technical surveyor will determine which upgrades can be installed and funded. These can include:
• Attic insulation and appropriate ventilation;
• Wall insulation and appropriate ventilation – cavity wall, external wall or dry lining depending on the property;
• Secondary measures – lagging jackets, draughtproofing, energy efficient lighting;
• In certain circumstances: heating system replacements, window replacements where the wall is being insulated
• The average waiting time from application to completion in Q2 2023 was just under 19 months. This is a decrease from an average of 26 months for homes completed in 2022. The significant reductions in the average waiting time has been achieved in part through the following actions taken to reduce the timeline to completion and increase output under the scheme:
• SEAI has been allocated additional staff for the Warmer Homes Scheme;
• A significantly increased budget allocation;
• SEAI work to increase contractor output through active contract engagement and management;
• Actions to address ongoing supply chain and inflationary pressures.
• My Officials continue to work with the SEAI to maximise and accelerate output of free energy upgrades delivered. An unprecedented budget of €148.5 million has been allocated to the scheme this year which will deliver 6,000 home upgrades. Additional funding of €264 million has also been secured for the scheme from the European Regional Development Fund and will supplement the annual allocations over the period from now until 2027. Importantly, a new contractor panel for the scheme was recently established. It is intended that the panel will be in place for 4 years, with an estimated contract budget of €700 million for that period, which is a very strong signal of commitment.
Energy Conservation
Questions (78, 194)
Jennifer Whitmore
Question:78. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when the low-interest loans to enable homes to retrofit will be available; the rate it will be set at; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37280/23]
View answerJennifer Whitmore
Question:194. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will provide details on when the low-interest loan for retrofitting will be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39344/23]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 78 and 194 together.
My Department is working with the Department of Finance, the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland, the Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland, the European Investment Bank and the European Investment Fund to develop a residential retrofit loan guarantee scheme, which will be backed by a counter guarantee provided by the EIB Group.
The loan guarantee will provide risk protection to retail credit institutions participating in the scheme and will enable credit institutions to offer loans with reduced interest rates to private homeowners and non-corporate landlords making comprehensive home energy efficiency upgrades more affordable to consumers. Further, it will signal to the banking sector, new sustainable business opportunities associated with retrofit and the transition to a low carbon economy as well as increasing the volume of retrofit activity within the State.
The development of this innovative scheme is a complex process involving several stakeholders. Intensive engagement to develop the scheme is ongoing and there has been extensive due diligence between the EIB Group and the Irish banking and credit union sector.
The residential retrofit loan guarantee scheme will be the first consumer-focused guaranteed loan of its kind in Ireland. All stakeholders both at national and European level are committed to finalising the project and it is expected that the loan guarantee will be in place this year. Detail on the applicable interest rates will be available at that time.
Waste Management
Questions (79)
Richard Bruton
Question:79. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he receives reports on the extent to which the pricing structure of bin collections incentivise reduce and recycle through the differential between the cost of black, brown and green collections; if domestic waste is currently being appropriately segregated into the respective streams; whether such segregation is delivering lower total volumes of waste and lower levels of contamination in the respective streams; and if any changes in price structures are anticipated. [37354/23]
View answerWritten answers
The waste management market is serviced by private companies, in accordance with the requirements of their waste collection permits as issued by the National Waste Collection Permit Office (NWCPO).
The terms and conditions of contracts, including pricing plans, are matters between those companies and their customers, subject to compliance with all applicable legislation. However, in line with commitments given in A Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy, my officials are currently in the process of arranging for ongoing monitoring of the waste collection market to examine whether fair and transparent pricing is consistent in the market and how that information is disclosed to customers.
My officials are also working with the National Waste Collection Permit Office (NWCPO) to carry out a study on incentivised charging structures in the waste collection market. This study will examine what, if any, improvements are needed to ensure that waste collection systems are fully incentivising waste prevention and improved source segregation practices.
The EPA is the competent authority for the collation of national waste statistics and reports annually on Ireland’s performance against a range of European waste directive and regulations. These reports are available at National Waste Statistics | Environmental Protection Agency (epa.ie).
Broadband Infrastructure
Questions (80)
Fergus O'Dowd
Question:80. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to address the situation such as the one set out (details supplied) where one neighbour in an area is receiving 1000mbs and the other has very slow broadband; the steps he will take to ensure that if two thirds of an estate is connected to ultra-high speed broadband, the entire estate is supplied as a matter of practicality and fairness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37420/23]
View answerWritten answers
Fibre connectivity in the Seaview estate referred to in the Question is to be provided, in part, through the National Broadband Plan State-led intervention but also through commercial investment. And while NBI have provided service to a portion of the residents in the estate, I am advised that the remaining premises should be served through commercial means in the near future.
However, my officials will seek to confirm an exact time for connection from the commercial operator in question and absent a clear timeframe will revert to NBI to provide a fibre broadband service. I will revert once we have clarity on this and a time to connect the premises in that estate which are currently not served by NBI.
The NBP intervention area is informed by coverage data provided by commercial operators and my Department relies on this data to be as accurate as possible to avoid situations where fibre is delivered to certain estates through different operators and different times.
In December 2022, my Department published Ireland's Digital Connectivity Strategy which supports the ambition outlined in the National Digital Strategy and sets out a number of ambitious targets, including that:
• all Irish households and businesses will be covered by a Gigabit network no later than 2028;
• all populated areas will be covered by 5G no later than 2030, and
• digital connectivity will be delivered to all schools and broadband connection points by 2023.
The National Broadband Plan intervention contract provides for the roll out of a high speed and future-proofed broadband network to primarily rural areas. The intervention area covers over 1.1 million people living and working in over 560,000 premises, including almost 100,000 businesses and farms along with some 679 schools.
These targets will be achieved through commercial operators investing in their networks, complemented by the State’s National Broadband Plan intervention. When taken together, all premises in the State will have access to high-speed broadband in every part of the country no matter how remote.
Energy Prices
Questions (81)
John Lahart
Question:81. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the basis for the standing charge for a person that owns the physical mater attached to a residential property on which energy is metered and subsequently charged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37423/23]
View answerWritten answers
The electricity and gas retail markets in Ireland operate within a European Union regulatory regime wherein they are commercial, liberalised, and competitive. Operating within this framework, responsibility for the regulation of the electricity and gas markets is solely a matter for the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), which was assigned responsibility for the regulation of the Irish electricity and gas markets following the enactment of the Electricity Regulation Act (ERA), 1999.
Price setting by suppliers, including standing charges, is therefore a commercial and operational matter for the companies concerned. Each supplier has its own different approach to pricing decisions over time, in accordance with factors such as their overall strategic direction and developments in their cost base. Even during periods of low usage, there are fixed costs associated with the supply of gas or electricity, including network tariffs, infrastructure and staffing. These fixed costs are reflected in customer's bills through standing charges.
Bord na Móna
Questions (82)
Fergus O'Dowd
Question:82. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will seek a detailed breakdown on the €64,000 payment under the taxable benefits included in the 2022 Bord na Móna annual returns (details supplied) and itemise the benefits accordingly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37439/23]
View answerWritten answers
Financial payments are a matter for the Board of Management and the company and one in which I as Minister have no function. I have asked Bord Na Móna to reply to the Deputy directly on this matter.
State Bodies
Questions (83)
Fergus O'Dowd
Question:83. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications further to Parliamentary Question No. 57 of 5 July 2023, to which there was an inadequate response, if he will ensure that the figures, as provided by the vast majority of other Departments, are completed in tabular form under specific headings (details supplied); if he will seek assurances where there are no BIK payments on the returns that the CEO of said bodies does not benefit from any mode of transport/allowance or health benefits paid/leased by the said bodies; if he will ensure that returns are sought for each of the State/semi-State bodies or other public body under the aegis of his Department for each year since 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37440/23]
View answerWritten answers
All contracts for the CEO or equivalent in the relevant bodies under the aegis of my Department have terms and conditions based on sanction received from the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform. All salaries and benefits are published in the company’s Annual Report and Financial Statements in keeping with the Business and Financial Reporting requirements of the 2016 Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies.
Information on pay and other benefits for the relevant bodies is outlined in the table attached.
Protected Disclosures
Questions (84)
Fergus O'Dowd
Question:84. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to confirm if any protected disclosures have been received by him or his Department in respect of Bord Na Móna management over the years 2018 to date; if so, the number; if all disclosures have been investigated; if any are yet to be investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37443/23]
View answerWritten answers
I can confirm that the Department is in receipt of a disclosure over the period in question in respect of Bord na Móna.
This disclosure is being assessed in accordance with the Department's published Protected Disclosure Policy and Guidelines.
Bord na Móna
Questions (85, 86, 87)
Bríd Smith
Question:85. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will pursue the purchase by the State of the former briquette factory at Derrinlough and to allow for a full consultation with all stakeholders as to the future of the site, especially the Bord na Móna workers who were promised a just transition following the ending of production at this plant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37591/23]
View answerBríd Smith
Question:86. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will undertake to immediately halt the sale of the former Bord na Móna briquette factory and its 44.5 acre site in Derrinlough, County Offaly, in the interests of allowing time for a public consultation with all local and national stakeholders about how the site’s potential to deliver a Just Transition towards a low-carbon future in the midlands can be best realised; if he will undertake to launch such a public consultation process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37618/23]
View answerBríd Smith
Question:87. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will undertake to purchase the former Bord na Móna briquette factory and its 44.5 acre site in Derrinlough, County Offaly, in the interests of ensuring that both building and site remain in public ownership; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37619/23]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 85 to 87, inclusive, together.
Bord na Móna is an independent commercial semi state company and the future of the Derrinlough Peat Briquette Factory site is a matter for the Board and Management of Bord na Móna. I, as Minister, have no statutory function in this matter.
Bord na Móna has concluded all briquette production operations at its Derrinlough peat factory in Co. Offaly. Decommissioning of the briquette factory will now commence and will take a number of months to complete. During this time, Bord na Móna will be exploring alternative options for the future use of the site. The closure of Derrinlough marks the final stage of the company’s wider commitment to cease peat harvesting in 2021, exhaust existing peat stocks for briquette production, and complete its transition from a traditional peat business to a climate solutions and renewable energy company. Bord na Móna is committed to reviewing a range of potential options for the site in line with its original plans and is engaging with a variety of stakeholders on this matter.
Bord na Móna is fully committed to supporting all impacted employees and has implemented a redeployment strategy to provide alternative positions and retraining opportunities within the wider business. All impacted employees have now been redeployed across Bord na Móna’s Renewable Energy, Land & Habitats and Recycling businesses.
As part of its Brown to Green Strategy, Bord na Móna is now entirely focused on renewable energy generation, recycling, peatlands restoration, biodiversity and the development of new, low-carbon enterprises. It will continue expanding its sustainable project portfolio to support Ireland in achieving its renewable energy requirements by 2030, and its net zero emissions by 2050.
Question No. 86 answered with Question No. 85.
Question No. 87 answered with Question No. 85.
Bord na Móna
Questions (88)
Bríd Smith
Question:88. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to detail his precise plans to ensure that the Government honours its commitment to deliver a Just Transition for the former employees of the Bord na Móna briquette factory in Derrinlough, County Offaly; the timescale for the delivery of this Just Transition plan; the budget allocated to its implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37620/23]
View answerWritten answers
Bord na Móna is an independent commercial semi state company and the future of the Derrinlough Peat Briquette Factory site is a matter for the Board and Management of Bord na Móna and so I, as Minister, have no statutory function in this matter.
The Government is committed to a just transition in the Midlands region and has dedicated significant funding to supporting workers, companies and communities affected by the closure of the peat-fired power stations and the end of peat harvesting by Bord na Móna. A Just Transition Commissioner was appointed by the Government in November 2019 with the mandate to engage with those affected by the accelerated exit from peat for electricity generation in the Midlands region and to recommend to Government the essential elements of a just transition for those workers and communities.
The Department is funding 56 projects in the Midlands through the National Just Transition Fund. The Fund will provide up to €22.1 million in grant funding over the lifetime of these projects, which will mobilise an estimated €15 million in additional funding to the region.
A new EU Just Transition Fund will seeks to address the adverse effects of the climate transition by supporting the most affected territories concerned and promoting a balanced socio-economic transition. Ireland has secured €84.5 million under this Fund which will be matched by the Exchequer, giving a total programme size of up to €169 million for expenditure until 2027. Further details are available at eujtf@emra.ie.
A total of €29 million of funding is available to Midlands communities from my Department in 2023 under the National and EU Just Transition Funds.
Energy Policy
Questions (89)
John Lahart
Question:89. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to consider, given that as the country in general will be spending so much more going into the future on gas, a proposal that the Government set about compiling a list of energy savings that each and every householder can make in order not have to spend as much on their energy usage, or gather all the 'experts' in this field together to pool their ideas, and then from that print a leaflet or booklet and send it to each householder in the country. [37633/23]
View answerWritten answers
During the evolving energy crisis, the ongoing Government of Ireland Reduce Your Use/Stay Warm and Well public information campaign has provided clear and timely advice to Irish families, households, and businesses. A key component of the campaign strategy is to ensure that Government is actively listening to people; understanding and responding to their needs and concerns to determine the most useful advice, information and interventions that can be provided.
To ensure this is achieved, quantitative research has been carried out by Amárach Research on a fortnightly basis since October 2022, and on a monthly basis since April 2023. A nationally representative group is surveyed to test response to messaging and consumer sentiment. The results of this tracker indicate that overall there has been some reduction in the difficulty of meeting energy costs since October, and that families are making consistent efforts to reduce their energy use. However, the high cost of energy remains a serious concern, particularly among vulnerable groups.
The Government is working towards completing the implementation of the Energy Poverty Action Plan, monitoring the efficacy of existing supports, and exploring further measures to support consumers in the context of Budget 2024. The Consumer Sentiment and Reported Behaviour Research October 2022- June 2023 is available at: gov.ie - Consumer Sentiment and Reported Behaviour Research (www.gov.ie).
Bord na Móna
Questions (90)
Bríd Smith
Question:90. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he is in agreement with calls to immediately halt the sale of the former Bord na Móna briquette factory and its 44.5 acre site in Derrinlough, County Offaly, in the interests of allowing time for a public consultation with all local and national stakeholders about how the distinct social, economic and cultural significance of this key site in Ireland’s industrial heritage and economic history can best be honoured and safeguarded for the future, and how the site’s potential to deliver a Just Transition towards a low-carbon future in the midlands can best be realised; if he will undertake to launch such a public consultation process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37652/23]
View answerWritten answers
Bord na Móna is an independent commercial semi state company and the future of the Derrinlough Peat Briquette Factory site is a matter for the Board and Management of Bord na Móna. I, as Minister, have no statutory function in this matter.
The closure of Derrinlough marks the final stage of the company’s wider commitment to cease peat harvesting in 2021, exhaust existing peat stocks for briquette production, and complete its transition from a traditional peat business to a climate solutions and renewable energy company.
Bord na Móna has concluded all briquette production operations at its Derrinlough peat factory in Co. Offaly. Decommissioning of the briquette factory will now commence and will take a number of months to complete. Bord na Móna is committed to reviewing a range of potential options for the site in line with its original plans and is engaging with a variety of stakeholders on this matter.