Written Answers Nos. 206-227
206. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the extent to which he continues to monitor challenges to the manufacturing of the service sectors here, with particular reference to ensuring continued maximum levels of employment and high production and marketing standards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51750/23]
View answerMy Department continues to monitor challenges to the manufacturing and services sectors of the economy. With an unemployment rate of 4.8% in September, the Irish economy has been operating at a level close to full employment for quite some time. The risks to employment will depend on the risks to the economy, more broadly. Added to this, Irish GDP grew by 13.6% in 2021, and 9.4% in 2022, therefore, a moderation in economic growth might naturally be expected. A moderation in growth is also forecast in the Economic and Fiscal Outlook published as part of Budget 2024 which projects Real GDP growth of 4.5% for both 2024 and 2025.
As set out in Budget 2024, risks to the near-term economic outlook are tilted to the downside. The rise in interest rates, which the ECB does not expect to cut before Summer 2024, would be expected to dampen international economic growth rates. Given the open nature of the Irish economy, a slowdown in international growth may lead to more moderate rates of growth domestically. Cyclicality in demand can also have implications for sectoral economic growth - such as demand for pharmaceutical products which had seen significant growth during the COVID-19 pandemic and bolstered Irish exports during that period. As an open economy we are also aware of the risk which any rise in protectionism internationally presents.
Cost inflation can have significant impacts on the ability of the manufacturing and services sectors to compete internationally. However, Ireland has shown its strong ability to compete internationally, evident in our ranking of 2nd in the IMD World Competitiveness Rankings this year from a total of 64 countries. This ability to compete is also evident in the continued resilience of the Irish economy at a challenging time for the global economy.
Manufacturing in Ireland is one of the critical sectors of the Irish economy with clusters of world class manufacturing operations in sectors such as biopharmaceuticals, engineering, medical technology, building materials, and food production. There were 317,200 people employed in the industry sector and although there was a decline in Q2 2023 compared to the same period of time last year, overall, there were more people employed in the industry sector than prior to Covid-19.
The most recent economic data from the CSO shows that the Industry (excluding Construction) sector increased by 0.8% year-on-year over the same period. Gross Value Added for the Multi National Enterprise-dominated sectors expanded by 1.7% in Q2 2023 compared with Q2 2022.
Recent CSO data on Industrial Production and Turnover production in manufacturing industries rose by 1.3% in September compared to August 2023. However, production was 22.8% lower in the three months from July to September 2023 when compared with the same period in 2022. From July 2023 to September 2023, turnover in manufacturing industries grew by 0.7% compared with the previous three-month period.
Over the two-year period prior to Budget 2024 a total of €12 billion – 4½ per cent of national income – was provided in cost of living and doing business supports, comprising a mix of permanent and one-off measures, to absorb some of the impact and ease the burden of inflation on households and businesses. Budget 2024 contained a number of measures which will support businesses facing increased costs of doing business, including the Increased Cost of Business Grant will be targeted at Small and Medium sized businesses who operate from a rateable premises, with a total allocation of €250m and an extension of the 9% VAT reduction for gas and electricity until 31st October 2024, among other measures.
As set out, my Department continues to monitor sectoral economic activity and risks to this activity. However, no new measures are currently under consideration beyond what has already been announced. The Government’s approach to enterprise policy continues to be guided by the priorities set out in the White Paper on Enterprise 2022-2030 – published in December last year. This review of Enterprise Policy was the first since 2018 and was motivated by an awareness of a changing enterprise landscape posing new challenges, including shifting patterns of globalisation driven by geopolitical change, disruptive technological innovation, and lagging productivity in parts of the indigenous sector of the economy.
The White Paper is being implemented through a series of consecutive two-year Implementation Plans, the first of which was published in May of this year, covering the period 2023-2024. As part of this implementation process, the White Paper commits to exploring options for strengthening horizon scanning and strategic foresight in the future, which will facilitate an agile policy approach that enables Government to adapt to new risks and opportunities as they emerge.
207. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the extent to which he believes support for small and medium-sized enterprises remains, given the challenges now and in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51751/23]
View answer208. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the degree to which he remains satisfied that the level of support for small and medium-sized enterprises here is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51752/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 207 and 208 together.
My Department’s White Paper on Enterprise to 2030 sets out an ambitious vision for Ireland’s enterprise policy, to protect Ireland’s strong economic position, and respond to challenges and opportunities that have emerged because of the pandemic, wider economic and geo-political developments, digitalisation, and an increased urgency to decarbonise industry. It provides for a sustainable, innovative and high-productivity economy, with rewarding jobs and livelihoods in the period ahead.
My Department and its officials are fully committed in advancing the interests of SMEs in Ireland, ensuring the full support provided in Budget 2024 will further progress this sector.
The Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), play an extremely important role as part of a supportive ecosystem, providing their services direct to small businesses and promoting entrepreneurship within towns and communities across the country. They act as a ‘first stop shop’ providing expert advice and guidance, financial assistance, and offer a ‘signposting’ service for all government supports available to business owners throughout the country.
The LEOs received €9 million additional funding in Budget 2024, which will provide additional capacity for grant approval, training and development programmes and allow the LEOs to extend financial supports to businesses with up to 50 employees, who have ambition to begin exporting.
The ‘All in a Day’s Work’ campaign, focuses on how the Lean, Green and Digital products available can help businesses to save time, money, and energy. In addition, the LEO Mentor Programme seeks to provide LEO Clients with the knowledge, skills, insights and entrepreneurial capability of experienced business practitioners.
2024 marks the Ten-Year anniversary of the LEOs and Officials in my department have commenced work on the development of a LEO policy statement that will determine the direction of course for the LEOs for the coming years and seek to implement the recommendations of the White paper on Enterprise to further enhance the services available through the LEOs.
In addition, the nine Regional Enterprise Plans Launched in 2022, are supported by regional Steering Committees and focus on undertaking collaborative projects that can help strengthen the regional enterprise ecosystem thereby supporting enterprise growth and job creation locally.
Furthermore, the Retail Forum, of which I am a member, meets quarterly and one of the current priorities is supporting the sector to deal with the increasing cost of doing business. My Department is arranging stakeholder workshops to ensure that the views of enterprise are reflected in this assessment and Retail Forum members have been invited to attend.
My Department has secured €250m for the Increased Cost of Business Scheme. The grant will be paid to SMEs who pay commercial rates to their local authorities, and will provide targeted refunds to around 130,000 micro and small businesses, accounting for 87% of rated businesses.
Other measures such as the new targeted Angel Investment Scheme will introduce a reduced Capital Gains Tax Rate to 16%, promoting innovation for angel investors investing in ‘innovative’ SMEs. The increase in the Research and Development tax credit to 30% and the increase in the payment threshold to €50,000, aiming to encourage investment in R&D by both large and small companies.
The new National Enterprise Hub which will include a dedicated website and phone line to Hub Advisors, developed by Enterprise Ireland, this will help businesses to navigate the comprehensive suite of supports that are being offered to business throughout Ireland.
As Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail I look forward to progressing further the interests of SMEs. I want to ensure you that I, my Department, and its officials are fully committed to serving the SME sector in Ireland.
209. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the extent to which he remains satisfied regarding the adequacy of safety at work standards here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51753/23]
View answerIreland has a robust suite of occupational safety and health legislation which aims to ensure a high standard of safety practices at work.
Under the Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005 employers have an obligation to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare of employees at work. Employers have a duty to undertake a risk assessment to identify the hazards in the workplace and to put in place appropriate controls to protect employees.
In addition, the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 address, in detail, specific aspects of work-related health and safety issues including the use of work equipment, night work and shift work, manual handling of loads and safety signs amongst others.
There are also sector-specific regulations and orders made under the 2005 Act, in fields such as Construction, Diving, Mines, Quarries etc. as well as a range of Codes of Practice which provide guidance and best-practice information to employers and employees.
All relevant Regulations are updated, as necessary, on a regular basis to ensure the highest standards regarding safety at work are maintained and in accordance with EU Directives as appropriate.
The 2005 Act also details the role and functions of the Health and Safety Authority (HSA). The HSA is the national statutory body with responsibility for enforcing occupational safety and health law, promoting and encouraging accident prevention, and providing information and advice to all companies, organisations and individuals.
The HSA has its own health and safety inspectorate responsible for inspecting and enforcing occupational safety and health legislation.
Employers who breach health and safety regulations face a range of actions by the HSA up to and including prosecution action. Any employer or employee with a query or concern about workplace safety should contact the HSA at contactus@hsa.ie or by LoCall 0818 289 389.
210. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the degree to which he and his Department remain alert to any threats to employment here, whether locally or imported, with particular reference to the need for identification of such threats in order to address them in good time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51754/23]
View answerMy Department continues to monitor risks to economic activity and employment for both the locally- traded and international sectors of the economy. With an unemployment rate of 4.8% in September, the Irish economy has been operating at a level close to full employment for quite some time. The risks to employment will depend on the risks to the economy, more broadly. Added to this, Irish GDP grew by 13.6% in 2021, and 9.4% in 2022, therefore, a moderation in economic growth might naturally be expected. A moderation in growth is also forecast in the Economic and Fiscal Outlook published as part of Budget 2024 which projects Real GDP growth of 4.5% for both 2024 and 2025.
As set out in Budget 2024, risks to the near-term economic outlook are tilted to the downside. The rise in interest rates, which the ECB does not expect to cut before Summer 2024, would be expected to dampen international economic growth rates. Given the open nature of the Irish economy, a slowdown in international growth may lead to more moderate rates of growth domestically. Cyclicality in demand can also have implications for sectoral economic growth - such as demand for pharmaceutical products which had seen significant growth during the COVID-19 pandemic and bolstered Irish exports during that period. As an open economy we are also aware of the risk which any rise in protectionism internationally presents.
Despite these risks Ireland’s economy has demonstrated substantial resilience over the past number of years and into 2023, reaching full employment during a challenging period for the global economy.
Over the two-year period prior to Budget 2024 a total of €12 billion – 4½ per cent of national income – was provided in cost of living and doing business supports, comprising a mix of permanent and one-off measures, to absorb some of the impact and ease the burden of inflation on households and businesses. Budget 2024 contained a number of measures which will support businesses facing increased costs of doing business, including the Increased Cost of Business Grant will be targeted at Small and Medium sized businesses who operate from a rateable premises, with a total allocation of €250m and an extension of the 9% VAT reduction for gas and electricity until 31st October 2024, among other measures.
As set out, my Department continues to monitor sectoral economic activity and risks to this activity. However, no new measures are currently under consideration beyond what has already been announced. As with the supports which were provided to help businesses with rising inflation, there is a limit to how much direct support Government can offer firms to shelter them from international economic developments and associated risks.
The Government’s approach to enterprise policy continues to be guided by the priorities set out in the White Paper on Enterprise 2022-2030 – published in December last year. This review of Enterprise Policy was the first since 2018 and was motivated by an awareness of a changing enterprise landscape posing new challenges, including shifting patterns of globalisation driven by geopolitical change, disruptive technological innovation, and lagging productivity in parts of the indigenous sector of the economy.
211. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Education the current sick payment entitlement for a person (details supplied) who is currently out on long-term sick leave from their teaching post; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51638/23]
View answerThe sick leave entitlements for a teacher are as follows:
A teacher who is absent from duty because of personal illness or injury, may be granted paid Sick Leave of a maximum of 3 months (92 days) on full pay in a year, followed by a maximum of 3 months (91 days) on half pay in a year. Paid Sick Leave is subject to a maximum of 6 months (183 days) in a 4 year period.
A teacher who is absent from duty because of a critical illness or serious physical injury and has supporting medical evidence may, upon application, be granted Critical Illness Provision (CIP), in exceptional circumstances as provided for in the Labour Court Recommendation (LCR 20667). Under CIP, a teacher may be granted a maximum of 6 months (183 days) on full pay in a year, followed by a maximum of 6 months (182 days) on half pay in a year. Paid Sick Leave under CIP is subject to a maximum of 12 months (365 days) paid Sick Leave in a 4 year period. The granting of CIP is a decision made by the employer having considered the Occupational Health Service (OHS) medical advice.
Where paid Sick Leave has been exhausted, a teacher may be granted Temporary Rehabilitation Remuneration (TRR). In the case of a member of a pre-existing pension scheme, the rate of TRR is based on pensionable pay, and paid pensionable service accrued in the employment at the time paid Sick Leave was exhausted, together with the added years which would be awarded if ill health retirement were granted. In the case of a member of the Single Public Service Pension Scheme, the rate of TRR is based on referable amounts accrued in accordance with the provisions of the Single Pension Scheme at the time paid Sick Leave was exhausted, and the enhancement of benefits as provided for in regulations. TRR will not exceed 18 months (548 days) in the case of ordinary illness. In the case of a teacher who has been granted extended paid Sick Leave under CIP, they may have access to 12 months (365 days) TRR followed by a further period of TRR not exceeding 24 months (730 days).
A teacher, who is certified medically unfit by the OHS to resume duty after all paid Sick Leave entitlements have been exhausted, must notify their employer in writing if they intend to avail of a period of unpaid Sick Leave and retain their position in the school/ETB Scheme during this period. For those who do not qualify for TRR, the period of unpaid Sick Leave will not normally exceed the TRR limits. In considering any extension to the Unpaid Sick Leave entitlements, employers must seek the advice of the OHS on the teacher’s prospect of recovery and return to work.
212. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education to examine a case whereby a person (details supplied) did not receive full payment for the hours completed in the Home Summer Provision 2023; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51688/23]
View answerDetails of this year’s Summer Programme were announced by the Department on 9 February 2023. Again, all schools were given an opportunity to run a programme for those children that need it the most.
The main priority in 2023 has been that those children with the most complex special educational needs, especially in special schools, should have access to a school-based summer programme.
The terms and conditions for the 2023 Summer Programme were implemented following a comprehensive review and extensive engagement with education partners and stakeholders, including the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Autism. The Department also engaged with management bodies, schools and parents with a view to encouraging more schools to participate in the 2023 programme.
The aim of the Department is to meet the needs of families and to ensure every eligible child is provided with a summer programme. The preferred approach is that the Summer Programme is provided for children in school settings where children may have access to fully qualified teachers, adapted fun based activity programmes, special needs assistants and interaction with student peers. The school-based programmes provide a more holistic experience for students and help retain the important connection with school and peers. However, the Department does recognise that not all schools would have been in a position to provide a school-based programme. In such instances, a Home-Based Programme is available for students with complex special educational needs where the school-based programme is unavailable.
It is important that the Home-Based element of the Summer Programme provides support for the education and/or care needs of students with complex special educational needs during the summer break period. Under the terms and conditions of the 2023 Home-Based Summer Programme, it is clear that the allocation of hours is 10 hours per week for a maximum 4 weeks for an eligible student. This is a long standing arrangement under this scheme and is designed to ensure that children can receive additional support over a prolonged period during the summer break. It is not intended to be given over a short time period or to replicate the school day, given that is generally on a one to one basis.
The Department of Education also makes it clear that the published terms and conditions of the Home-Based Summer Programme should be read carefully by parents and schools before making an application and should also be referred to throughout the duration of the programme by all, including teachers and SNAs. The terms and conditions also state that, in delivering the programme, teachers and SNAs must adhere to the published terms and conditions of the programme.
Teachers / SNAs who wish to raise a query in relation to payments for the Summer Programme are welcome to contact my Department through the Home Based summer program email address HomeBasedsummerprogram@education.gov.ie.
In the case referred to by the Deputy, I have asked my Officials to look into the matter further to re-examine all aspects. They will revert back to the tutor directly in this regard.
213. Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Minister for Education the reason an approved extension development for a school (details supplied) was withdrawn; the reason no reason for the withdrawal was given to the school; to outline the proposals her Department has for increasing the school capacity; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51722/23]
View answerI can confirm to the Deputy that the school in question was issued a provisional letter of offer following their application for capital funding under my Department's Additional School Accommodation Scheme. Following consultation with the school pre-cast modular accommodation was accepted by the school as the solution to best meet their particular needs.
The department has a range of delivery mechanisms for delivering school accommodation to support the current very strong and ambitious roll out of school building projects. This is particularly relevant given the overall challenging construction sector market.
In order to meet the varying needs of schools across the country my department has broadened its delivery streams and is utilising Modern Methods of Construction, including modular accommodation, as well as traditional construction delivery methods. Modular accommodation has particular advantages in terms of overall timelines and also climate impact in that it does not generally have a reliance on fossil fuels.
A number of factors are considered by my department in determining the most appropriate construction method to meet a school’s accommodation requirements, including the timing and duration of that accommodation need, and other school-specific factors.
In support of the expedited delivery of critical school accommodation my department has put in place a Modular Accommodation Framework. All of these supports help ensure that the administrative burden for schools on procuring and delivering modular accommodation solutions is significantly eased.
The Modular Accommodation Framework solution:
· Has significant benefits in terms of delivery timelines;
· Minimises the impact of the project on the operation of the school;
· Provides quality and sustainable accommodation that meets building regulation requirements and is Near Zero Energy Building (NZEB) compliant; and
· Climate proofing of the accommodation, given that the modular accommodation has the added benefit of utilising decarbonised heating sources which should also help with the school’s energy profile and costs.
Following the appointment of project managers to this project and consultation with the department on timelines for delivery it was indicated that pre-cast modular was not deliverable for September 2024. A collective decision was therefore made to review the projects selected for pre-cast modular delivery, where the need for accommodation was identified for September 2024.
On this basis the project for the school to which the Deputy refers to, was withdrawn from the pre-cast modular framework.
Officials in my department confirmed to the school that while the project was withdrawn from the pre-cast modular delivery route, it was not or has not been withdrawn from the Department's Additional Accommodation Scheme. Officials in my department liaised directly with the school to progress an alternative delivery steam for accommodation. Following this consultation, the school advised my department that they did not wish to proceed with modular accommodation. The long-term accommodation requirements for the school will need to be considered taking this into account.
My department have been engaging with the NCSE to determine the current requirements for places in special schools for September 2024.
214. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Education if she will instruct her Department to put a plan in place to deliver the necessary temporary accommodation for a school (details supplied) to ensure that the school can take in the cohort of over 150 students on a waiting list for next September from the catchment area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51739/23]
View answerMy Department is aware of pressures at post primary level in the planning area of the school referred to by the Deputy. This pressure is in part due to the reduction by some schools in the number of first year places being made available for 2024/25 school year. A critical next step is to acquire clarity on the actual number of additional first year places required for 2024 in order for an appropriate solution to be put in place.
In that context, schools in a number of areas of enrolment pressure, including this school planning area , have been requested to share data on applications for admissions. The Department is liaising closely with schools to ensure that this data is provided as soon as possible, and once it is received the actual requirement for places can be established. The Department is already having discussions with the relevant school patrons but the understanding of the actual school place needs will give clarity as to the specific actions that are required.
This close engagement with schools and patrons will also allow the Department to identify particular further capacity requirements for the forthcoming years and put any required solutions in place - beyond those that are already in train - to ensure sufficient school places to meet the needs of students in the area.
215. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Education if she will instruct her Department to put a plan in place to deliver the necessary temporary accommodation for a school (details supplied) to ensure that the school can take in the cohort of over 150 students on a waiting list for next September from the catchment area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51740/23]
View answerI can advise the Deputy that my Department is aware of pressures at post primary level in the Athenry School Planning Area in part due to the reduction by some schools in the number of first year places being made available for 2024/25. A critical next step is to acquire clarity on the actual number of additional first year places required for 2024 in order for an appropriate solution to be put in place. In that context, schools in a number of areas of enrolment pressure, including Athenry, have been requested to share data on applications for admissions. The Department is liaising closely with schools to ensure that this data is provided as soon as possible, and once it is received the actual requirement for places can be established. The Department is already having discussions with the relevant school patrons but the understanding of the actual school place needs will give clarity as to the specific actions that are required.
This close engagement with schools and patrons will also allow the Department to identify particular further capacity requirements for the forthcoming years and put any required solutions in place - beyond those that are already in train - to ensure sufficient school places to meet the needs of students in the area.
216. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Education if she will provide a school bus service from east Galway city and Oranmore to a school (details supplied) where there is no secondary gaelscoil; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51742/23]
View answerThe School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education. In the 2022/2023 school year, over 149,000 children, including over 18,000 children with special educational needs, were transported on a daily basis to primary and post-primary schools throughout the country.
In addition, school transport scheme services were provided for over 5,400 children who have arrived to Ireland from Ukraine.
The total cost of the scheme in 2022 was €338.9m.
Over 134,000 tickets have issued for the 2023/2024 school year which is an increase of 12% when compared with the start of the 2022/2023 school year. The number of tickets issued so far has already exceeded the total number of tickets issued in the 2022/23 school year. There has been an overall increase in both applications and tickets issued for the 2023/2024 school year in comparison to the 2022/2023 school year.
Under the terms of the School Transport Schemes, children are eligible for transport at primary level where they reside not less than 3.2 kms from and are attending their nearest national school. At post primary level, they are eligible where they reside not less than 4.8 kms from and are attending their nearest post primary school/education centre. Distance is determined by the Department/Bus Éireann, and rules have regard to ethos and language.
Children who are eligible for school transport and who complete the application process on time (apply on time and pay on time) are accommodated on school transport services where such services are in operation.
Children who are not eligible but who apply for school transport are considered for spare seats that may exist after eligible children have been facilitated; such seats are referred to as concessionary seats.
Parents of a child wishing to avail of school transport services, are required to apply on-line to Bus Éireann’s website at buseireann.ie.
Bus Eireann has advised that there is currently no service operating the route referred to by the Deputy.
A minimum number of 10 eligible children residing in a distinct locality, as determined by Bus Éireann, is required before consideration may be given to the establishment or retention of school transport services, provided this can be done within reasonable cost limits.
217. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Education the measures she is taking to resolve the shortage of secondary school places in Greystones, County Wicklow; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51743/23]
View answerI can assure the Deputy that the provision of school places to meet the needs of children and young people at primary and post primary level, including children and young people with special educational needs is an absolute priority for the Department.
As the Deputy may be aware, for school planning purposes, the Department of Education divides the country into 314 school planning areas and uses a Geographical Information System (or GIS) to anticipate school place demand. Information from a range of sources, including Child Benefit Data, school enrolment data and information on residential development activity is used for this purpose. Additionally, Project Ireland 2040 population and housing targets inform the Department’s projections of school place requirements.
Having considered the projected requirements in each school planning area, the Department then makes an assessment of the existing capacity within that particular area and its ability to meet any increased demand. Additional provision is made as necessary, where the existing capacity is insufficient for future needs.
The Department is aware of pressures at post primary level in the Greystones School Planning Area in part due to the reduction by some schools in the number of first year places being made available for 2024/25. A critical next step is to acquire clarity on the actual number of additional first year places required for 2024 in order for an appropriate solution to be put in place. In that context, schools in a number of areas of enrolment pressure, including Greystones, have been requested to share data on applications for admissions. The Department is liaising closely with schools to ensure that this data is provided as soon as possible, and once it is received the actual requirement for places can be established. The Department is already having discussions with the relevant school patrons and authorities regarding potential solutions but the understanding of the actual school place needs will give clarity as to the specific actions that are required.
This close engagement with schools and patrons will also allow the Department to identify particular further capacity requirements for the forthcoming years and put any required solutions in place - beyond those that are already in train - to ensure sufficient school places to meet the needs of students in the area.
In line with the Department's demographic projections of post primary school place requirements there has been a continued growth in enrolments in Greystones. In response to the projections of school place needs in Greystones, the Department is providing significant additional post primary capacity, including a new 1,000 pupil school building for Greystones Community College. Greystones Community College was established in 2020 as a regional solution for the Kilcoole and Greystones area. The project to deliver this new school building is at Stage 3, Tender Stage.
In addition to the above project, the Department has recently delivered a major building project to expand St. David’s Secondary School and is also progressing a building project for Temple Carrig School in Greystones under the National Development Plan. St. David’s Secondary School is a co-educational school and a major building project to deliver state of the art, modern school accommodation for 750 pupils was provided at this school.
Temple Carrig Secondary School Greystones is also a co-educational school and it was established in 2014. There is a project underway to provide accommodation at this school for 1,000 pupils, which is currently at Stage 1, preliminary design stage. A project for 4 Modular mainstream classrooms has also been approved. These classrooms are now on site and the project is nearing completion.
In addition, there is the existing school in the adjacent Kilcoole School Planning Area, Coláiste Craobh Abhann, for which there is a major project approved to expand the school to 1,000 pupils. This project is currently at Stage 2b and is being delivered by the National Development Finance Agency.
I can assure the Deputy that Department officials will continue to actively engage with schools and patrons to ensure that there is appropriate provision for all students in Greystones for the 2024/25 school year and into the future. Families can be assured that any necessary solution will be delivered so that all of the children in the Greystones School Planning Area will receive a first year place.
218. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Education the updated timeline for the delivery of a new school accommodation for post-primary schools (details supplied), given the tender process has been completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51774/23]
View answerThe school building project for the school referred to by the Deputy will deliver a new 1,000 pupil post-primary school and accommodation, including four classrooms, for children with special educational needs.
This project is being delivered under my Department’s Design and Build Programme and is currently at tender stage.
The Invitation to Tender issued on the 18th April 2023, as part of a bundle of projects issued to a Framework of Design & Build Contractors. The tender process currently takes approximately 8-12 months. Once a Contractor has been appointed, it is anticipated that construction would commence shortly thereafter.
219. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education further to Parliamentary Question No. 231 of 17 December 2013, if the Governing Authority was established under the Education and Training Board Act 2013; and if this board was and/or is on a statutory footing. [51775/23]
View answerThe Governing Authority in question was established under the Education and Training Board Act 2013 with the consent of the Minister.
220. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Education whether there are plans to locate a future primary and/or post-primary school in the growing north Santry area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51794/23]
View answerI wish to advise the Deputy that requirements for school places is kept under on-going review in the context of available information on population, enrolments and residential development activity.
In order to plan for school provision and analyse the relevant demographic data, my Department divides the country into 314 school planning areas and uses a Geographical Information System, using data from a range of sources, including CSO Census data, Child Benefit and school enrolment data, to identify where the pressure for school places across the country will arise and where additional school accommodation is needed at primary and post-primary level.
Major new residential developments have the potential to alter the demand for school places at a local level. In that regard, as part of the demographic demand analysis, my Department monitors planning and construction activity in the residential sector. This involves the analysis of data sources from Local Authorities and the CSO along with the engagement with local authorities and the construction sector. In this way, up-to-date information on significant new residential developments is obtained and factored into the demographic analysis exercise. This is necessary to ensure that schools infrastructure planning is keeping pace with demographic changes, at a local level, where there is a constantly evolving picture with planned new residential development.
Where demographic data indicates that additional provision is required, the delivery of such additional provision is dependent on the particular circumstances of each case and may, be provided through: • Utilising existing unused capacity within a school or schools,• Extending the capacity of a school or schools,• Provision of a new school or schools.
Santry is located in the Whitehall_SantryD9 School Planning Area.
There are 6 primary school projects planned in the Whitehall_SantryD9 school planning are: and when completed, will cater for the demand for school places in the area:
Gaelscoil Áine (Roll No: 20517C) – Brief: New 8-classroom school plus 2 SEN
Our Lady of Victories NS (Roll No: 19242F) – Brief: 2 x 80m2 mainstream classroom & 1 x 15m2 Resource Room. Stage 4: Stage 4 is the signing of the letter of acceptance to the successful contractor and commencement on site.
Holy Child NS (Roll No: 17318C) – Brief: 2x Classroom SEN base Stage 4
Our Lady Of Victories GNS (Roll No: 18911R) – Brief: 1x80m2 Mainstream, 1xWC, 3 x SET room Stage 5: Stage 5 is final handover of the school building to the Patron/Board of Management.
Virgin Mary Girls NS (Roll No: 19303W) – Brief Reconfiguration works to accommodate ASD class. Stage 5
Virgin Mary Boys National School (Roll No: 19302U) – Brief Reconfiguration works to existing space to create 1 x SEN Class base
Gaelscoil Bhaile Munna (Roll No: 20015B) – Brief reconfiguration works for SEN. Stage 5
There are 4 post primary school projects planned in the Whitehall_SantryD9 school planning area and when completed, will cater for the demand for school places in the area:
Ellenfield Community College (Roll No: 70321P) – Brief: new replacement school for 1,000 pupils plus 6 SEN
St Kevin's College (Roll No: 60581M) – Brief: Science Lab & Prep area, 1 x 179m2 Construction studies room & 2 x 49m2. Stage 2B: Stage 2B is the developed design & lodgement of planning permission
St Aidans CBS (Roll No: 60481I) – Brief: 15 MCR (9 prefab replacement), 5 SET(prefab replacement), 1 Construction, 1 Tech Prep,2 Project Store,2 Science Labs,1 Prep, 1 DCG, 1 Art, 1 x Multimedia, 1 Music, 2 SEN and ancillary. Stage 2B
Clonturk College (Roll No: 76394D) – Brief new school building to cater for LTPE 1000, plus a 6 class SEN base. Stage 1: Stage 1 is the Preliminary Design Stage where the Design Team in conjunction with the school authorities, will analyse all the constraints of the site, develop a preferred design option and ensure that the preferred option is the best option for the delivery of the brief.
Details of large-scale projects being delivered under the school building programme may be viewed on my Department's website at gov.ie and this information is updated regularly. In addition, a list of large-scale projects completed from 2010 to date may also be viewed on the website.
The Department will continue to liaise with Local Authorities in respect of their County Development Plan and any associated Local Area Plans with a view to identifying any potential long-term school accommodation requirements across school planning areas including Santry.
221. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Education whether there are plans to locate a second-level gaelcholáiste in the Swords area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51795/23]
View answerIn order to plan for school provision and analyse the relevant demographic data, my Department divides the country into 314 school planning areas and uses a Geographical Information System, using data from a range of sources, including Child Benefit and school enrolment data, to identify where the pressure for school places across the country will arise.
Major new residential developments in a school planning area have the potential to alter demand in that area. In that regard, as part of the demographic exercises, the Department engages with each of the local authorities to obtain the up-to-date information on significant new residential development in each area. This is necessary to ensure that schools infrastructure planning is keeping pace with demographic changes.
Where demographic data indicates that additional provision is required, the delivery of such additional provision is dependent on the particular circumstances of each case and may be provided through:
• Utilising existing unused capacity within a school or schools,
• Extending the capacity of a school or schools,
• Provision of a new school or schools.
Work on the development of a new policy for Irish-medium education outside of the Gaeltacht is in progress in my Department. Included among the key objectives of the policy are exploring how opportunities for the establishment of Gaelscoileanna and Gaelcholáistí can be increased as part of the patronage process.
A patronage process is run after it has been decided, based on demographic analysis, that a new school is required. The New Schools Establishment Group (NSEG) is an external independent advisory group which was set up in 2011 to advise me on the patronage of new schools. The patronage process is open to all patron bodies and prospective patrons.
An Online Patronage Process System (OPPS) provides objective information to parents in the relevant school planning areas to assist them in making an informed choice about their preferred model of patronage and language of instruction for the new school.
A prospective patron can choose the school(s) it wishes to apply for and complete an application form in that regard for each school, for submission to the Department. The Department provides details on the OPPS of the school(s) and the list of applicant patrons which have applied for patronage of the school(s).
Parents access the OPPS website, which allows them to access the appropriate survey for their area, to input the details of the eligible child(ren) and to select their preferred patron and language of instruction (where applicable). Parental preferences, as well as other considerations such as the extent of diversity of provision in an area (including Irish-medium provision), are key to the decision-making process. Such analysis impacts on whether, at post-primary level, a school would take the form of an Irish-medium Gaelcholáiste, or whether, if English-medium, the school would include an Irish-medium unit.
A public consultation process has been conducted to gather the views of stakeholders. The issues raised in that consultation will be considered as part of the work on the development of the Policy on Irish-medium Education outside of the Gaeltacht.
The Department will continue to liaise with Local Authorities in respect of their County Development Plan and any associated Local Area Plans with a view to identifying any potential long-term school accommodation requirements across school planning areas including Swords.
222. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education if she will clarify a matter (details supplied). [51803/23]
View answerThe State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the state examinations.
In view of this I have forwarded your query to the State Examinations Commission for direct reply to you.
223. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the steps she is taking to protect small children from being exposed to hardcore online pornography; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51595/23]
View answerThe issue of children accessing online material that is not appropriate for them, including pornography, is a serious matter. This is why Government legislated for a new regulatory framework for online safety through the Online Safety and Media Regulation (OSMR) Act.
Under the OSMR Act, a new regulator, Coimisiún na Meán was established. An Coimisiún will protect people from harmful online content and children from age-inappropriate online content, including pornographic material, through the development of binding online safety codes and online safety guidance materials. An Coimisiún expects to adopt their first online safety code in Q1 2024. It is independent in the discharge of its functions.
The EU Digital Services Act (DSA) came into force last August and has applied since then to Very Large Online Platforms and Very Large Online Search Engines, enforced by the European Commission. From February 2024, it will apply to all platforms and Government has decided to designate Coimisiún na Meán as Ireland’s Digital Services Coordinator under the DSA to monitor and enforce it in Ireland.
The DSA introduces a range of obligations including requirements for most online services to complete risk assessments in relation to the risk of exposure of their users to illegal online content and the exposure of children and young people from age-inappropriate content. These services, including services providing pornographic material, must then address this risk of exposure, including by means of age-verification or age-assurance.
More broadly at European level, in May 2022, the European Commission launched a new European Strategy for a Better Internet for Kids. This Strategy places a strong focus on providing age-appropriate online experiences, including through age verification and age-appropriate design. In order to facilitate age verification, the European Commission has committed to work with Member States and promote EU standardisation in order to strengthen effective age-verification methods. In particular, the Commission has committed to facilitating a comprehensive code of conduct on age-appropriate design by 2024 and indicated that the code could provide for age verification for accessing certain online content.
These measures will assist in keeping children safe from harmful and age- inappropriate online content, including pornography.
224. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media to provide an update on the fourth collective statement by the 36 sports ministers worldwide on Russia's war on Ukraine and international sport, and inconsistencies of approach by countries who signed the declaration; if she has engaged with these fellow signatories over their non-enforcing of the declaration; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51632/23]
View answerThe joint Ministerial statement to which the Deputy refers, and the three other statements issued previously, represent a strong and welcome international consensus against the completely unwarranted and unjustified aggression against Ukraine by the Russian Federation. All of these statements were made on the basis of an explicit recognition and respect for the autonomy of sporting organisations. As such, the question of enforcement against non-compliance does not arise.
Since the first joint statement was issued on 8 March 2022, there has been a generally widespread adherence by the international sport community to the principles and approach advocated by Ministers in the various statements. I am encouraged by the maintenance of this consistent support by the great majority of sporting organisations. With regard to the minority of sporting organisations that choose to follow a different approach, while I fully recognise their autonomy in this matter I would urge them to show solidarity with the people of Ukraine, including through supporting the continuation of Ukrainian sport.
225. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media to provide an up-to-date statement on LSSIF round 1; to detail how much has been allocated; how much has been drawn down; and the list of projects it was allocated to. [51701/23]
View answerThe National Sports Policy, which was published in 2018, provided for the establishment of a Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). The first call for proposals under the LSSIF closed in 2019 with applications confined to local authorities and national governing bodies of sport. All applications were assessed in accordance with the published evaluation procedures and guidelines and the first allocations were announced in January 2020. Thus far, approximately €86.4 million has been awarded to 33 different proposals. Full details of all allocations are available at:- gov.ie/en/service/4113b3-large-scale-sport-infrastructure-fund-lssif/
Since June 2023, the Linear Walkway Project in Meath, Phase 1 of Walsh Park in Waterford, and the Regional Athletics Hub in Limerick have opened to the public. The total amount paid out by the Department to date under LSSIF is €4,749,730. The amounts drawn down and the respective projects are as follows:-
· Dalymount Park Redevelopment (design). €180,410
· Linear Walkways & Playing Pitches, Dunboyne. €1,454,657
· Waterford GAA, Walsh Park. €1,069,700
· Limerick Regional Athletics Hub. €1,193,462
· Kildare GAA, St Conleth's. €851,501
Following engagement with the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform and in recognition of challenges, such as construction inflation, officials in my Department wrote to all LSSIF grantees inviting them to apply for additional support by 4 August. To be considered for additional funding, grantees were advised that the key elements of the project should remain as set out in the original application and that priority would be given to those who provide evidence-based documentation to support their application. I hope to be in a position to announce further allocations to grantees in the coming period to ensure that all existing LSSIF projects are advanced.
226. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív den Aire Turasóireachta, Cultúir, Ealaíon, Gaeltachta, Spóirt agus Meán cén chaoi a mheasfar a bhfuil an té a cheapfar mar Ard-Rúnaí nua ar an Roinn cumasach ar an ngnó a dhéanamh trí Ghaeilge; an bhfuil sé i gceist leas a bhaint as an Teastas Eorpach do theangacha mar chuid den phróiseas; má tá, cén leibhéal a bheidh le baint amach ag an té a cheapfar; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [51720/23]
View answer227. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív den Aire Turasóireachta, Cultúir, Ealaíon, Gaeltachta, Spóirt agus Meán cén t-achar ama, tar éis an ceapachán a dhéanamh, a thabharfar d’Ard-Rúnaí nua na Roinne chun líofacht a bhaint amach sa Ghaeilge; cén caighdeán Gaeilge a bheidh le baint amach agus cén chaoi a mheasfar sin; an féidir a dheimhniú nach ndéanfar an ceapachán buan go mbainfear amach an caighdeán cuí; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [51721/23]
View answerTógfaidh mé Ceisteanna Uimh. 226 agus 227 le chéile.
Tá na critéir riachtanacha don ról aontaithe ag mo Roinnse agus ag TLAC agus déanfaidh PAS iad seo a mheas mar chuid den phróiseas roghnóireachta. Níl Teastas Eorpach na Gaeilge mar chuid den phróiseas earcaíochta seo. Toisc go meastar go mbeidh an té a cheapfar in ann gnó na Roinne a dhéanamh trí Ghaeilge, nó go mbeidh an cumas aige/aici an cumas sin abhaint amach laistigh d’fhráma ama réasúnta; Cuirfidh mo Roinn na tacaíochtaí riachtanacha i bhfeidhm chun a chinntiú gur féidir é seo a bhaint amach, más gá.
Is conradh sealadach ar théarma seasta é post an Ard-Rúnaí ar feadh tréimhse suas le 7 mbliana ó dháta an cheapacháin.
Tugann Treoir Ghaeilge mo Roinne deiseanna éagsúla d’úsáid agus forbairt na Gaeilge do gach fostaí. Ina theannta sin, leanfaidh mo Roinn ag tairiscint oiliúint fhoirmiúil Ghaeilge dá fostaithe go léir.
Question No. 227 answered with Question No. 226.
