Thursday, 28 Sep 2023

Written Answers Nos. 137-163

Energy Conservation

Questions (137)

Richard Bruton

Question:

137. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the latest position in relation to the proposed loan for retrofitting being developed with the EIB; whether it is intended that this will only be available for works above a certain threshold, or achieving a certain standard of BER; the likely maximum term of the loan and the prospective interest rate range which will apply and if it is expected it will be open to the public before the end of the year. [41986/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

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 roll-out of the loan scheme is a key action of Climate Action Plan 2023 and the National Retrofit Plan and will be the first consumer-focused guaranteed loan of its kind in Ireland. It 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 all eligible 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 to meet the required targets.

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. 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. Details on the term of the loan and applicable interest rates will be available upon launch at that time.

Energy Production

Questions (138)

Richard Bruton

Question:

138. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of solar panel installations which are now selling surplus power back to the grid, distinguishing household suppliers, farm or business suppliers; if he has conducted a survey of the price being earned per kilowatt hour, and if he will indicate how he expects this practice to evolve in the coming years. [41987/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), which is accountable to a committee of the Oireachtas and not to me as Minister, has responsibility for the operation of the Clean Export Guarantee (CEG). In December 2021, the CRU published a Decision on an interim enabling framework for the CEG which outlines the arrangements for its implementation, including eligibility criteria and remuneration methodology.

As part of this, a renewables self-consumer must inform ESB Networks (ESBN) of their intention to install microgeneration via a declaration using the NC6 or equivalent form. ESBN then notify the relevant supplier that there is a registered export capability at the customer’s meter point and provide the meter readings to the supply company. The customer should then engage with their supply company to obtain more information relating to the export tariff on offer and the timing of payments under the clean export guarantee scheme.

While there is no single register to record the number of microgenerators exporting to the grid at any one time, NC6 submissions record the number of micro-generators who have registered their export capabilities. As of 22nd September 2023, ESBN have received 70,777 valid NC6 form applications from micro-generators nationwide, who contribute 264 MW of electricity generation capacity. ESBN currently do not distinguish between commercial, domestic and agricultural microgenerators.

The CRU are monitoring the operation of the CEG framework, including the level of export tariffs available in the market. At present, CEG tariffs offered by suppliers range from €0.14 to €0.25 per kWh exported. Export tariff setting is considered in the CRU’s review of the interim framework, which is currently out for consultation, ahead of developing an enduring CEG solution. More information is available in this consultation paper, published on the CRU website on 19th September: www.cru.ie/publications/27659/.

Energy Conservation

Questions (139)

Richard Bruton

Question:

139. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he plans to alter any of the conditions or the grant payments available from SEAI for different elements of retrofitting for the coming year, based on evolving take-up of the various schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41988/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

In February 2022, Government launched a package of enhanced SEAI supports aimed at making it easier and more affordable for homeowners to undertake home energy upgrades, for warmer, healthier and more comfortable homes, with lower energy bills and emissions. The range of schemes available allows homeowners to choose the best home upgrade option to suit their needs. Free upgrades are also available to households at risk of energy poverty.

Demand across the SEAI residential and community energy upgrade schemes was exceptionally high last year with 27,200 upgrades completed, up 80% on 2021. This strong delivery has continued in 2023 with almost 30,000 home energy upgrades completed to end-August this year. This represents a 124% increase on the same period last year.

My Department and the SEAI will continue to ensure that grant schemes terms and conditions, eligibility criteria and rates are kept under review taking account of demand, research, innovation, evolving technology and other relevant factors.

Invasive Species Policy

Questions (140, 141)

Noel Grealish

Question:

140. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he and his Department are aware that invasive carp have been found in Lough Corrib SAC, considering that on 26 July 2023, Inland Fisheries Ireland acknowledged through its social media platforms that a carp (Cyprinus carpio) was found in the lake (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42026/23]

Noel Grealish

Question:

141. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he and his Department will provide additional financial support to Inland Fisheries Ireland in its stock management efforts to deal with a potential population explosion of recently introduced highly fecund carp (Cyprinus carpio) in Lough Corrib SAC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42027/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

I propose to take Questions Nos. 140 and 141 together.

My officials have liaised with Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) on the matter highlighted by the Deputy.

IFI has informed me that one common carp (Cyprinus Carpio) was recorded in July 2023 in Lough Corrib during stock management operations. IFI have confirmed that no additional common carp have been recorded in fish stock surveys of the lake. Common Carp (Cyprinus Carpio) is one of four fish species listed as a non-native species subject to restrictions under Regulations 49 and 50 of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations S.I. No. 477 of 2011.  The management of any species in a particular fishery is an operational matter for Inland Fisheries Ireland in which neither I nor my Department have any function. 

My Department will continue to support IFI as the State Agency with statutory responsibility for inland fisheries. As recently advised by my officials at a meeting of the Angling Consultative Council of Ireland, a review of bye-laws in force for 10 years or more and their continued application will be commenced shortly. It is intended that bye-law 806 will be reviewed early in that process.

Question No. 141 answered with Question No. 140.

Energy Conservation

Questions (142)

Seán Canney

Question:

142. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the measures he will consider to reduce the costs to householders who wish to undertake retrofit measures in their homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42048/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

The National Retrofit Plan sets out the Government's approach to achieving our national 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.  The Retrofit programme is being funded by the unprecedented National Development Plan financial allocation for residential retrofit of €8 billion to 2030.

In February 2022 the Government approved a package of significantly enhanced supports to make it easier and more affordable for homeowners to undertake home energy upgrades. Data from the SEAI shows that since the launch of the new measures, demand across the retrofit schemes has been exceptionally high. Almost 30,000 home energy upgrades were completed to end-August this year. This represents a 124% increase on the same period last year.

My Department is also 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. 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.

A Heat and Built Environment Taskforce has been established to accelerate and drive delivery in the area of retrofitting, renewable heat, district heat, decarbonisation and overall energy use needs of the building stock. The overarching aim of the Taskforce is to identify work on the critical path to key targets under each area, ensure alignment in the development of polices and activities underway across Government Departments, and proactively manage risks to ensure targets are achieved.

Energy Conservation

Questions (143)

Seán Canney

Question:

143. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will ensure that every applicant under the warmer homes scheme will have measures carried out, regardless of whether these premises are deemed suitable for the deep retrofit scheme or not; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42049/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

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 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.

There are a number of home energy improvements offered as part of the Warmer Home Scheme. The upgrades that will be recommended for a property will depend on many factors, including age, size, type and condition of the property. 

However, all of the SEAI approaches are determined by the Building Regulations, incorporating NSAI S.R.54: 2014 Code of practice for the energy efficient retrofit of dwellings. This ensures that homes are only provided with measures suitable for their construction type, and avoids problems which can arise when works are not carried out to these standards, such as mould and damp.

For each eligible home, Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland’s (SEAI)’s technical surveyor will determine which upgrades can be installed and funded. Some homes will receive shallower works and other homes will receive a deeper package of upgrades.

The works that can be provided 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.

Environmental Schemes

Questions (144)

Seán Canney

Question:

144. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will consider putting in place another national used tyre collection scheme to clean up the environment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42050/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

Ireland uses the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) model for dealing with a number of waste streams, including tyres. Under the EPR scheme for tyres, which was introduced in 2017, producers have a responsibility to finance the collection and environmentally sound waste management of these products at end of life.

In 2022, implementation of this scheme ensured that 95% of passenger vehicle tyres were recovered, and 85% were recycled, surpassing the targets of 70% and 30% respectively.

Prior to the introduction of the EPR scheme in 2017, my Department made €700,000 available to help remove historic waste tyres from farms. I have no plans currently to arrange a further collection event.

National Broadband Plan

Questions (145)

Seán Canney

Question:

145. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he is satisfied with the rate of progress being made in the roll-out of the National Broadband Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42051/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

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.

These targets will be achieved through a combination of commercial investments and through the State investment in National Broadband Ireland (NBI).

Commercial operators’ fibre rollouts are progressing at pace. Open eir, as part of their IFN fibre programme currently rolling out nationwide, plan to connect over 1.9m premises to their commercial fibre network by 2026.  Open eir have already passed over 72,000 homes and businesses with access to gigabit services in Co. Galway, with plans to pass a further c.29,000 premises over the next 2 – 3 years, bringing their total fibre-based investment in the county to over €50m. Other commercial operators are also continuing to increase their network footprint across County Galway, with SIRO passing more than 33,000 premises and Virgin Media passing more than 32,000 premises

National Broadband Ireland (NBI) is currently rolling out a high speed and future-proofed broadband network to primarily rural areas through its Contract with the Minister. 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.

I am advised by NBI that, as of 15th  September 2023, 182,250 premises are passed across 26 counties and available for immediate connection. 53,695 premises are already connected to the NBP high-speed broadband network. In Galway, over 14,200 homes and businesses have been passed by NBI and are available for immediate connection, with c. 4,836 of those now connected to the NBP State Intervention network.

Recent ComReg data shows that Quarter 2, 2023 saw a 7.4% increase in fibre broadband subscriptions compared to the first 3 months of the year, and a 33.7% increase when compared to Quarter 2 of 2022. This demonstrates that take-up of fibre connectivity for homes and businesses is increasing massively as it’s deployed to areas where it had previously been unavailable. The same ComReg data also indicates that c.40% of homes and business throughout the State now have access to gigabit services through either fibre or cable infrastructure and this will continue to increase month on month as operators continue to invest heavily in gigabit networks across the State.

Wind Energy Generation

Questions (146)

Seán Canney

Question:

146. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he agrees with proposals to develop windfarms close to residential settings where there is a negative impact on visual amenity, landscape and a risk of white noise and flicker affecting householders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42052/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

Meeting our national targets for wind energy will require further integrating renewable technologies in proximity to communities in an appropriate manner in full consultation with those communities.

Developers will be required to apply internationally recognised best-practice techniques when it comes to protecting human health within the home. This includes adopting and achieving appropriate standards for control of noise, shadow flicker, and utilising modern technology to minimise and control impacts where necessary.

All renewable electricity developments are subject to careful independent scrutiny at the planning application stage, whereby protection of human health and residential amenities is a central consideration.

Furthermore, all renewable installations, including wind farms, require the submission of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as part of their planning application. This assessment helps to identify and evaluate any significant impact that the facility may have on the environment. The relevant planning authority will take this into consideration when reaching a decision on an application.

The Wind Energy Development Guidelines (WEDGs) are also currently being updated and are due to be published in Q4 2023 by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.The guidelines are intended to ensure a consistency of approach throughout the country in the identification of suitable locations for wind energy development and the treatment of planning applications for wind energy developments.

They will focus on addressing a number of key aspects including noise, visual amenity setback, shadow flicker, community consultation obligations, community dividend and grid connections.

In the above context, it is also important to stress the urgent need to accelerate the delivery of onshore wind and solar energy to meet the carbon budget programme under the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act which requires a 51% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.  For electricity, one of the key measures to achieve this is the delivery of 9 GW of onshore wind by 2030 which requires more than a doubling of current onshore wind capacity.

National Broadband Plan

Questions (147, 148, 149, 150, 151)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

147. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the degree to which the programme for the roll-out of broadband throughout the country continues in such a way as to ensure that all areas have access to modern high-speed broadband, in order to facilitate education and industry to the greatest possible extent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42068/23]

Bernard Durkan

Question:

148. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the extent to which efforts continue to be made to identify areas where no broadband service exists, with a view to provision of same at the earliest possible date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42069/23]

Bernard Durkan

Question:

149. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications what further steps he can take to ensure the elimination of broadband blackspots in all areas throughout the country, with particular reference to those areas adjacent to but not receiving service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42070/23]

Bernard Durkan

Question:

150. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the extent to which he is satisfied regarding investment in broadband infrastructure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42071/23]

Bernard Durkan

Question:

151. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the steps he intends to take to ensure an acceleration of the national broadband programme, given the extent to which many customers feel neglected, particularly in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42072/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications

I propose to take Questions Nos. 147, 148, 149, 150 and 151 together.

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.

These targets will be achieved through a combination of commercial investments and through the State investment in National Broadband Ireland (NBI).

Commercial operators’ fibre rollouts are progressing at pace. Open eir, as part of their IFN fibre programme currently rolling out nationwide, plan to connect over 1.9m premises to their commercial fibre network by 2026. Other commercial operators are also continuing to increase their network footprint right across the State, with SIRO recently reaching a milestone of enabling 520,000 premises for full fibre, and Virgin Media announcing plans to bring 2Gbps services to 345,000 premises through upgrade and expansion of their own network.

National Broadband Ireland (NBI) is currently rolling out of a high speed and future-proofed broadband network to primarily rural areas through its Contract with the Minister. 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.

I am advised by NBI that, as of 15th September 2023, 182,250 premises are passed across 26 counties and available for immediate connection. 53,695 premises are already connected to the NBP high-speed broadband network. In the Deputy’s own county of Kildare, over 4,000 homes and businesses have been passed by NBI and are available for immediate connection, with c. 1,260 of those now connected to the NBP State Intervention network.

My Department has engaged with NBII at every opportunity to explore options that might increase the pace of rollout. For example my Department has been working with Directors of Service and Broadband Officers from each of the 31 Local Authorities, the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), the County and City Management Agency (CCMA), the Road Management Office (RMO) and other Government Departments, where appropriate, to ensure that any possible barriers that might delay the rollout are addressed as soon as possible. Engagement with other bodies such as Transport Infrastructure Ireland, Irish Rail and ComReg is also undertaken.

I understand that NBI are in regular discussions with eir, who are responsible for the remediation of eir poles, to increase the rate of pole replacement each month and eir have responded positively to these requests. NBII have also procured the necessary subcontactors, materials and equipment to support the programme into the foreseeable future to ensure there are no bottlenecks in the supply chain that could interfere with the rollout.

The network rollout for the NBP is divided into 227 Deployment Areas (DAs) across the country. These typically measure approximately 25km in radius and cover 96% of Ireland’s landmass. The network is specifically designed based on the NBI network coming from the eir exchanges or the metropolitan area networks (MANs) which allows NBI to reach every premises quickly.

Recent ComReg data shows that Quarter 2, 2023 saw a 7.4% increase in fibre broadband subscriptions compared to the first 3 months of the year, and a 33.7% increase when compared to Quarter 2 of 2022. This demonstrates that take-up of fibre connectivity for homes and businesses is increasing massively as it’s deployed to areas where it had previously been unavailable. The same ComReg data also indicates that c.40% of homes and business throughout the State now have access to gigabit services through either fibre or cable infrastructure and this will continue to increase month on month as operators continue to invest heavily in gigabit networks across the State placing Ireland at the forefront of Europe for access to gigabit broadband.

Climate Change Policy

Questions (152)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

152. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the extent to which he continues to liaise with the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to ensure that climate emission reduction requirements are met alongside agri-food objectives, thereby protecting a major national industry of food production, together with the need to observe best practice in emission reduction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42073/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

The Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act 2021 commits Ireland to a legally binding target of a climate neutral economy no later than 2050 and a reduction in emissions of 51% by 2030 compared to 2018 levels. Following the process set out in the Act, a carbon budget programme proposed by the Climate Change Advisory Council was adopted by the Oireachtas on 6 April 2022. On 28 July 2022, the Government approved Sectoral Emission Ceilings for both the first and second carbon budget periods, (i.e. 2021-2025 and 2026-2030), with the exception the Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) sector, which was to be determined later. For our agriculture sector, this process has set a 10% emission reduction target by 2025 and a 25% emissions reduction target by 2030.

Climate Action Plan 2023 has outlined how these emission reductions can be achieved in the coming years. Through collaboration between my Department and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, the Climate Action Plan 2023 increases our ambition for efficiency in the sector while also heavily promoting the diversification of agricultural activities. These actions will on one hand improve animal breeding, feeding and finishing and, on the other, will encourage farmers to diversify into more sustainable sectors including organics, tillage and biomethane production. Targets include expanding the organic sector to 450.000 hectares, growing the tillage sector to 400,000 hectares and construction of up to 200 anaerobic digestion plants. It will also reduce our use of chemical fertilizer use to a maximum of 300,000 tonnes by 2030. The actions outlined target a 10% emissions reduction by 2025 and a 25% emissions reduction by 2030 as per the Carbon Budgets and Sectoral Emission Ceilings.  

In the meantime, my Department and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine continue to collaborate on reducing our carbon emissions, while also ensuring the security and sustainability of our food production. The challenge of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in our agriculture sector while ensuring our food security, is also a key opportunity for Ireland to become a world leader in long-term sustainable food production. I remain confident that our agricultural industry will fully adapt to the opportunities of this transition without compromising on sustainable food production.

Climate Change Policy

Questions (153)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

153. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the degree to which this country continues to meet its various obligations in respect of the attainment of emission targets along with other countries throughout the EU; whether Ireland is being particularly targeted, given the sparse and specific emissions from heavy industry in this country; how the efforts here compare with those in other countries, with particular reference to sensitive production areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42074/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

Ireland contributes collectively with other EU Member States to the commitments under the Paris Agreement and to the legally binding, EU-wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction target of at least 55% by 2030 as set by the European Climate Law. The EU, in its approach to decarbonising, has split GHG emissions into two regimes:

• The Emissions Trading System (ETS) is a European-wide “cap and trade” carbon market scheme for major polluters that establishes direct targets for high-emitting bodies. Emissions from electricity generation and large industry in the ETS are subject to an EU-wide emissions reduction target of 62% by 2030, relative to 2005 levels.

• The Effort Sharing Regulation (ESR) sets out Member States’ individual contributions from non-ETS sectors. Ireland’s target under the ESR is to reduce non-ETS emissions by 42% by 2030, compared to 2005 levels.

Together, the ETS and ESR, will facilitate delivery of the enhanced ambition at EU level, achieved collectively with all Member States participating in this effort, in a manner that balances considerations of fairness, cost effectiveness and solidarity, and ensures that no one is left behind.

Ireland’s climate objectives, as legislated for in the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Acts 2015 to 2021, and our domestic 2030 target, as set out in Climate Action Plan 2023, are fully aligned with our international and European climate obligations.

The Department of Taoiseach’s quarterly progress reports track the implementation of actions identified in the Climate Action Plan. The latest report shows an overall implementation rate of 72% in 2023. Progress has been made across six high-impact sectors from transport to industry which demonstrates that we have the capacity to deliver the changes that are needed.

At EU level, the European Commission’s Climate Action Progress Report 2023 and the European Environment Agency’s Trends and Projections in Europe Report 2023 will both be published in October. These reports will present the EU and individual Member States’ progress towards their respective climate targets and will allow us to develop a more comprehensive assessment of Ireland’s efforts and performance, relative to our European partners.

Climate Change Policy

Questions (154)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

154. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he remains satisfied that conversion to modern manufacturing methods in this country is sufficient to ensure achievements in terms of emission reduction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42075/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

The Sectoral Emission Ceiling for the industry sector requires emissions reductions of 35% by 2030. The Climate Action Plan sets out a pathway for achieving the required industry emissions reductions. The key measures include increased use of carbon-neutral heating, energy efficiency, increased use of zero-emissions gases, and reducing embodied carbon in construction materials produced and used in Ireland. Responsibility for achieving the sectoral ceiling for the industry sector lies with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. 

The adoption of modern manufacturing methods (MMC) is included within the scope of these measures. The adoption of modern methods of construction has the potential to dramatically improve construction sector productivity and sustainability which in turn will lead to a reduction in emissions for the construction sector. To promote the widespread adoption of MMC, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment is leading a cross-Department and cross-Agency MMC Leadership and Integration Group. MCC will contribute to more efficient use of material and will be part of the industry measure to reduce embodied carbon in construction materials. 

Waste Management

Questions (155)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

155. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the universally accepted methods for the disposal of plastics including recycling and the ongoing need to ensure that the public have sufficient ways and means of contributing to reduction in use, disposal and reuse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42076/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

Waste management methods, including for plastic, are set out in the waste hierarchy, which ranks methods according to their impact on the environment, in the following order:

1. Prevention

2. Re-use

3. Recycling

4. Recovery

5. Disposal

While Ireland is currently meeting its recycling target for plastic packaging, national waste statistics published recently by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) show that less than a third (28%) of plastic packaging is being recycled and that many recyclable plastic items are still being put in the general waste bin, which means they end up being incinerated. This represents a loss of recyclable material and an unnecessarily high cost for households and businesses, whose waste charges could be lowered through proper segregation.

A number of measures are in place to improve segregation and increase recycling rates for all packaging, including plastic:

• In July this year, I introduced mandatory segregation and incentivised charging for commercial waste,

• From 1 September, I introduced a new waste recovery levy and an increase to the existing landfill levy to encourage people to reduce their waste collection costs by improving their waste segregation practices, and

• From 1 February, 2023, a Deposit Return Scheme will go live. The scheme will increase the quantity and quality of plastic beverage bottles being recycled through a separate collection system.

Recycling is only part of the solution. The EPA’s data also shows that the generation of plastic packaging waste is increasing and we need to reverse this trend if we are to meet our ambitious EU targets for 2025 and 2030. Ireland is not alone in facing this challenge. The European Commission has proposed a new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation which aims to reduce the generation of packaging waste, promote cost-effective circular solutions for packaging and promote the uptake of recycled content in packaging. The headline ambition is, by 2040 to reduce packaging by 15% over 2018 figures.

Climate Change Policy

Questions (156)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

156. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications how he views the adequacy of this country’s efforts to meet emission reduction/climate protection proposals/objectives in this country; the extent to which he remains satisfied that the efforts here are comparable to others throughout Europe and in competing market places; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42077/23]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

The Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Acts 2015 to 2021 commit Ireland to a legally binding target of a climate neutral economy no later than 2050, and provide for a 51% reduction in emissions by 2030 compared to 2018 levels. Carbon budgets and sectoral emissions ceilings were adopted in 2022, providing further structure for our emissions reduction pathway.

The latest Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports show that in 2022 Ireland’s emissions fell by 1.9% compared to 2021. This is to be welcomed as it shows that Ireland can reduce emissions while also supporting economic growth.

While we are moving in the right direction, the EPA’s projections of future emissions highlight the challenges we face in meeting our carbon budgets and other ambitious targets. They show that a business-as-usual approach will not suffice – additional measures will be needed to meet our targets, and the upcoming CAP24 will reflect this.

The Department of Taoiseach’s quarterly progress reports track the implementation of actions identified in the Climate Action Plan. The latest report shows an overall implementation rate of 72% in 2023. Progress has been made across six high-impact sectors from transport to industry and this is an encouraging sign that we do have the capacity to deliver the changes that are needed, and the expanded scope of CAP24 will give us the opportunity to build on this momentum.

In terms of burden sharing and emissions reduction efforts across the EU, EU Member States contribute collectively to their commitments under the Paris Agreement and Member States’ individual contributions are established under the EU Effort Sharing Regulation (ESR). Ireland’s target under the ESR is to reduce non-ETS emissions by 42% by 2030, compared to 2005 levels.

The European Commission’s Climate Action Progress Report 2023 and the European Environment Agency’s Trends and Projections in Europe Report 2023 will both be published in October. These reports will present the EU and individual Member States’ progress towards their respective climate targets and will allow us to develop a more comprehensive assessment of Ireland’s ‘efforts’ and performance, relative to our European partners.

Departmental Policies

Questions (157)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

157. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence what steps have been taken at national and/or EU level to protect undersea cabling in the Atlantic or elsewhere, which might have an impact on EU and international security; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42084/23]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Defence

The Naval Service, as the State's principal sea-going agency, is tasked with a variety of defence and other roles. While the main daily tasking of the Naval Service is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with our obligations as a member of the EU, it also carries out a number of other non-fishery related tasks including contraband interdiction duties, search and rescue, and maritime defence and security operations (MDSO). As such, any Naval Service patrol should be viewed as a multi-faceted activity.

These patrols are augmented by the Air Corps Maritime Patrol Squadron in patrolling the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) using the two CASA CN 235 maritime patrol aircraft which are equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance and communication equipment.

Following an extraordinary EU Energy Council meeting in October 2022 to discuss the EU’s energy security in response to the attacks on Nordstream 1 and 2, the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan, TD, sought support from my Department in relation to additional measures that could be put in place by the Defence Forces to ensure that critical off-shore infrastructure including data cables are protected.

My officials and their Defence Forces colleagues continue to engage with the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications in relation to the protection of Ireland’s offshore infrastructure.

We have witnessed a fundamental change in our security environment in the last year with a renewed focus on maritime security and the protection of subsea cables. Protecting them on an ongoing basis on our own, is not a task that Ireland can shoulder alone. It requires international cooperation, shared responsibilities, and mutual trust.

Ireland is a strong proponent of the important role the EU can play in support of international peace and security and of the UN. It is essential, therefore, that Ireland remains fully engaged in all CSDP processes and contributes fully to the development of the policy in order that we can influence its evolution. It is in this context, we have been enhancing our engagement with the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO), which we joined in 2017.

Ireland is engaged in three PESCO (Permanent Structured Cooperation) projects which aim to identify gaps in capabilities and develop a technological solution for the protection of undersea infrastructure, sea lines of communication and harbour protection. Ireland is a participant in the PESCO Project Maritime (Semi) Autonomous Systems Counter Measures and the PESCO project Upgrade of Maritime Surveillance; and has observer status on the Critical Seabed Infrastructure Protection project. Ireland is also involved in a European Defence Agency project Maritime Surveillance (MARSUR) Networking - Operations Support & Development (MARSUR III). The priority of this project is the transmission of data between Navies in relation to vessels, the marine environment, infrastructure, in real time.

Defence Forces

Questions (158)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

158. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the extent to which Irish troops are likely to be called upon to continue to serve overseas in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42083/23]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Defence

Ireland has always been and continues to be a strong supporter of the United Nations and UN Peacekeeping. Our commitment and support for the primary role of the United Nations, in the maintenance of international peace and security, is expressed in Ireland's long-standing tradition of participating in UN peacekeeping operations. This commitment is also expressed in our engagement in the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).

The Government will consider any request that Ireland may receive to participation in any existing or new peacekeeping missions. All such requests are considered on a case-by-case basis. Any decision with regard to future deployments of Defence Forces personnel would have to be considered by reference to a number of other considerations, including the resourcing of the mission and the level of existing commitments to other peacekeeping operations and security requirements at home.

It is difficult to anticipate when Ireland might next expect to be invited to participate in an overseas mission. While there have been 71 UN-mandated missions since 1948, only 13 remain in operation today and only two such missions were approved as new operations in the last decade. No new peacekeeping missions have been approved by the Security Council since 2014. This, in turn, has implications for Ireland’s continued engagement in peacekeeping and potentially narrows the opportunity for participation in peacekeeping missions abroad.

I would also recall that the Government has approved the Defence Forces' participation in the German-led EU Battlegroup, which will involve a two-year commitment from 1 January 2024. The decision to participate in the EU Battlegroup does not presume any further decision in relation to deployment to participate in an actual Battlegroup operation. Any such decision is subject to national decision-making procedures which in Ireland’s case, means the “triple lock” of a UN Mandate and Dáil and Government approval.

The statutory authority for the despatch of contingents of the Permanent Defence Force for service overseas is set out in Section 2 of the Defence (Amendment) (No.2) Act, 1960 as amended by the Defence (Amendment) Act, 2006.

National Car Test

Questions (159)

Cathal Crowe

Question:

159. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider amending the Road Traffic (National Car Test) Regulations 2017 so that NCT tests would fall due 12 months after a subject vehicle has successfully passed a test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41890/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

Under European Directive 2014/45/EU on periodic roadworthiness testing, Ireland, like all Member States, must comply with the specified intervals for carrying out such inspections. This is given effect in Irish law by the Road Traffic (National Car Test) Regulations 2017 (SI 415/2017), as amended.

Regulation 3(2) of the 2017 Regulations provides that the initial test due date for a vehicle is determined by its registration date and subsequent test due dates automatically fall on anniversaries of the registration date. A certificate issued for that vehicle will be valid up to the test due date after the certificate is issued and is not automatically issued for 24 months, or 12 months for vehicles over 10 years old, from the date of testing. Permitting NCT certificates to be extended beyond the minimum test due dates would place the State in breach of our obligations under EU law and may affect road safety, should the vehicle in question be unsafe to drive. There are no current plans to amend this legislation.

Driver Test

Questions (160)

Thomas Pringle

Question:

160. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Transport if he considers it acceptable that a young person in Donegal (details supplied) who needs a car for getting to and from work, but lives in a rural area with little or no public transport options, should wait approximately seven months before they can book a test date, then face other possible delays before the test is conducted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41907/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the National Driver Testing Service. However, I would like to assure the Deputy that my officials and I take the current driver testing backlog extremely seriously. My Department is working closely with the Authority to address the issue of driver testing waiting times, which is affecting many throughout the State, including in Donegal.

The service has been under significant pressure to meet unprecedented demand, which has increased by 28% compared with 2021 figures. In response to these pressures, the Authority reviewed the capacity of the driver testing service and, following a request for additional resources, my Department gave approval for the recruitment of up to 75 additional driver testers. This brings the total number of sanctioned driver tester posts to just over 200. This recruitment is underway and being managed by the Authority. I have been advised that the first tranche of new recruits has been deployed this month. The additional driver testers are being allocated across the driver testing service with a focus on the geographical areas with the longest waiting times and highest demand for tests.It is expected that as additional driver testers are trained and deployed, the backlog for driver testing services will begin to decline and agreed service levels resuming by mid-2024.

Bus Services

Questions (161)

Emer Higgins

Question:

161. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider establishing a rural link service between Maynooth/Celbridge in County Kildare and Newcastle, County Dublin, to serve the community of Newcastle, as they await the establishment of an orbital route; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41919/23]

Written answers

Minister for Transport

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally. The NTA also has national responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including TFI Local Link services and the rollout of services under the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan.

In light of the NTA's responsibilities for new and enhanced public transport services in Counties Kildare and Dublin, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51

Bus Services

Questions (162)

Emer Higgins

Question:

162. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the establishment of the W6 orbital bus route which is currently operating in two sections, as the W61 and W62; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41920/23]

Written answers

Minister for Transport

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. In both the policy and funding areas there have been significant developments since this Government came into office, with last year's publication of a new Sustainable Mobility Policy and its five-year action plan providing strong policy support to the continued expansion and enhancement of bus services. I am also delighted to say that this strong policy support has been backed up by increased levels of Exchequer funding, which is supporting the roll-out of initiatives such as BusConnects Dublin.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including BusConnects.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.

Departmental Policies

Questions (163)

Pa Daly

Question:

163. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport if there are any subsidies for driving lessons for those on disability allowance, particularly for those who attend a training centre (details supplied), which is a considerable distance away from their homes, and who have no access to public transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41924/23]

Written answers

Minister for Transport

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to 'open' public transport services including in rural areas.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally. The NTA also has national responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including TFI Local Link services and the rollout of services under the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan.

My remit, and that of the NTA, relates to public transport services which are ‘open’ to all. Funding for individualised ‘closed’ transport and mobility services, such as dedicated transport services and subsidies for disabled people, are outside of my public transport remit.

My Department and the NTA are strongly committed to improving public transport services in rural areas. There has been a substantial increase in funding allocated for TFI Local Link services since 2016, going from €12.2 million in 2016 to €43m in 2023. The additional funding has enabled the introduction of over 100 new Rural Regular Service routes, as well as improvements to DRT services.

One of the key plans for enhancing the existing transport network across Ireland is under my Department and the NTA's Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which aims to develop an integrated, accessible, and sustainable network of public transport offerings across Ireland. Phase 1 was rolled out during 2022 with 38 new and enhanced services nationwide with 67 services planned for 2023. The allocation for Connecting Ireland in 2023 is €8.35m.