Written Answers Nos. 38-62
38. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence further to comments from An Taoiseach regarding the provision of assistance to Ukraine in relation to air defence, if he will outline the manner in which it is intended to provide such support. [10968/24]
View answerSince February 2022 Ireland has provided over €212 million in support to Ukraine, and commitments of approximately €122 million of non-lethal military assistance under the European Peace Facility. Ireland is also participating in the EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (EUMAM Ukraine) which is providing specialised training to the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) and coordination of existing Member State training. Following Government approval in February 2023, the Defence Forces currently have one officer deployed in a senior staff position in the mission’s Operational Headquarters, which operates within the EU’s Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC) in Brussels, while a further three DF personnel have also been deployed to the multi-national Special Training Command (STC) in Strausberg, Germany.
The Defence Forces have also to date delivered several training modules as part of EUMAM Ukraine, in tactical combat casualty care, demining/mine clearance, and drill instruction training. The Defence Forces are currently planning other modules and identifying other opportunities for support.
In addition to the training mission, Ireland has also donated two mine flails, for clearing minefields etc, with associated training to Ukraine in the last month. Ireland has also joined the Lithuanian-led coalition for de-mining efforts towards Ukraine. Ireland continues to explore the ways in which it can provide support to Ukraine across a range of areas, including in areas based on the capacity of provision by our Defence Forces.
From further engagement with my Department and the Defence Forces over the last week, I can confirm to the Deputy that this support will not extend to air defence, however.
39. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will report on medical supports for Defence Forces personnel; if supports will continue post-retirement from the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10939/24]
View answerA wide range of medical services are provided to members of the Permanent Defence Force. These include an annual medical examination, sick parades, attendance at GP surgery outside of sick parade and out-of-hours GP services, prescription services, laboratory services, physiotherapy, chiropody, radiology, ophthalmic examinations, in-patient and outpatient public hospital charges, routine dental treatment and the provision of overseas medical services, including global comprehensive medical insurance in the case of Defence Forces personnel (including dependents) assigned to longer term overseas administrative posts.
Additionally, private medical care (i.e. private consultant appointments, diagnostic tests and semi-private hospital treatment has been made available to all ranks since September 2023, following on from a Programme for Government commitment and a recommendation of the Commission on the Defence Forces.
Medical mental health services available to personnel include access to clinical psychology and psychiatry services. The psychology service assesses, diagnoses, treats and advises on strategies to prevent mental health disorders, and there are currently two Clinical Psychologists employed by the Defence Forces. Psychiatry services specialise in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. There is currently one dedicated civilian consultant psychiatrist engaged by the Defence Forces.
In addition to these clinical supports, non-medical mental health services are provided by the Defence Forces Personnel Support Service (PSS). The PSS provides a welfare, information, psycho-social support and referral service to serving members of the Defence Forces and their families. The service is also available to civilian employees, and in a limited role to retired personnel. This service sustains and enhances the individual well-being of personnel, and promotes a safe and positive work culture, in order to support the effectiveness of the Defence Forces.
The service is delivered through a network of military Barrack PSS Officers and civilian Occupational Social Workers. This network of professionals is prepared to provide immediate help to service personnel and their families in a routine environment or at a time of crisis. This assistance can range from the simple provision of information to counselling or, if required, signposting and referral to specialist help and assistance.
In addition, my Department funds a confidential counselling, referral and support service for serving members of the Defence Forces, civilian employees and Civil Defence volunteers. The service provides confidential counselling on a wide range of personal and work related issues, including but not limited to health, relationships, addictions, financial, bereavement, stress, conflict, critical incident and trauma. A Freephone confidential helpline is available on a 24/7 basis 365 days a year. The helpline provides for referral to appointment-based telephone or face-to-face counselling.
The aforementioned benefits apply to serving personnel and do not continue post-retirement. Post-retirement, former members of the Permanent Defence Force have access to the wide range of supports available to all citizens of the State.
40. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will report in relation to the current situation in South Lebanon and the Golan Heights; the activities of Irish Defence Forces personnel deployed on missions with UNDOF and UNIFIL in light of escalating kinetic activity in those regions; the measures taken to best ensure the safety and readiness of personnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10940/24]
View answerAs of 09 February 2024, the most recent figures available, Ireland is contributing 530 Defence Forces personnel to overseas missions and locations. The two main missions in which personnel are currently deployed are the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with 332 personnel, and the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Syria with 132 personnel.
I am advised that the situation in Southern Lebanon is dynamic and unpredictable with kinetic activity continuing to emanate from both North and South of the Blue Line. The situation in the UNIFIL area of operations is tense and remains unpredictable. In the UNDOF Area of responsibility (AOR), on the Golan Heights the situation also remains volatile and unpredictable.
I wish to reassure the Deputy however that the safety and security of Ireland’s Defence Forces’ personnel is of paramount concern to the Government, and I remain in ongoing contact with the Chief of Staff on this matter. My Department is also kept apprised of all developments in those areas in which Defence Forces’ personnel are deployed. Government will also continue to monitor the situation closely along with our partners in the UN and in the wider international community.
Military Management has stated that all Defence Forces’ personnel are maintaining a high level of vigilance and continue to monitor the developing situation in their respective mission areas. Defence Forces personnel are well trained prior to deployment to mitigate against risks and scenarios that may arise in deployments overseas, including the circumstances in which they find themselves currently. In both the UNIFIL and UNDOF missions referred to, personnel are complying with UN security precautions, including taking shelter in protected positions (GROUNDHOG), as appropriate.
With regard to UNIFIL particularly, contingency planning is part and parcel of the planning in operational deployments. Given the ongoing security issues in the region, contingency planning is ongoing should the need for evacuation arise. It should be underlined however that the Government remains committed to UNIFIL and has no plans to evacuate our personnel.
As the Deputy is aware, Ireland's commitment to UNDOF is currently nearing is completion, with troops due to return home in the next six weeks. In the interim period however, Defence Forces personnel in UNDOF also continue to maintain a high level of vigilance, including taking shelter in protected positions as and when appropriate.
41. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the payment rates for members of the Army Ranger Wing; if he will report on discussions in relation to improving their pay and conditions; if it is intended that any agreement would be backdated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10942/24]
View answerIn 2023, I sanctioned, with the agreement of the Minister and Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery & Reform, the implementation of the Decision of the Arbitration Board under the Schemes for Conciliation & Arbitration for the Civil Service, Defence Forces and Teachers regarding the Claim by the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association (PDFORRA) for an increase in the Army Ranger Wing (ARW) Allowance, with effect from 1st October 2021.
The Department’s Finance Branch has processed both the increase and the ensuing back pay element arising from the Board’s decision, with 1st October 2021 as the effective implementation date.
The decision of the Arbitration Board under the Schemes for Conciliation & Arbitration for the Civil Service, Defence Forces and Teachers regarding the Claim by the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association (PDFORRA) also recommended, and in line with the 2010 Adjudicator’s finding, that further three yearly reviews should take place. The next review is due to take place later this year.
The current rates of ARW allowances (last increased on 1st October 2023) are €292.47 per week for post-2013 enlisted personnel (€280.44 for pre-2013), and €283.25 per week for officers.
42. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of peacekeeping missions Ireland participated in, and the average number of Defence Forces personnel deployed on each, in the years 2019 to date, including obligations in 2024, by year, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10943/24]
View answerIreland has always been and continues to be a strong supporter of the United Nations and UN Peacekeeping. Our commitment and support for the 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).
Ireland has participated in 16 separate peacekeeping missions in the years 2019 up to 2024.
The actual number of Defence Forces personnel deployed overseas on peacekeeping missions on a per-year basis from the years 2019 to date are listed below in tabular format.
|
- |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 -to date |
|
UNTSO (Middle East) |
18 |
18 |
18 |
18 |
17 |
15 |
|
MINURSO (Western Sahara) |
9 |
7 |
4 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
MONUSCO (Democratic Rep Congo) |
12 |
9 |
9 |
6 |
0 |
0 |
|
UNIFIL HQ (Lebanon) |
18 |
18 |
18 |
18 |
15 |
8 |
|
UNIFIL Infantry Battalion (Lebanon) |
1023 |
1020 |
1023 |
1023 |
995 |
314 |
|
UNIFIL Sector West HQ (Lebanon) |
24 |
12 |
12 |
12 |
12 |
4 |
|
UNDOF Infantry Group (Golan Heights) |
390 |
390 |
390 |
390 |
393 |
132 |
|
UNDOF HQ (Golan Heights) |
16 |
18 |
16 |
14 |
12 |
6 |
|
UNMAS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
3 |
1 |
|
MINUSMA (Mali) |
14 |
40 |
40 |
40 |
0 |
0 |
|
EUFOR (Bosnia & Herzegovina) |
14 |
14 |
14 |
19 |
11 |
6 |
|
EUTM Mali |
59 |
60 |
60 |
54 |
22 |
0 |
|
Operations HQ/Floating HQ (Operation Sophia HQ) |
13 |
6 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Operations HQ/Floating HQ (Operation Irini HQ |
0 |
3 |
9 |
9 |
13 |
4 |
|
KFOR HQ |
37 |
36 |
36 |
36 |
38 |
13 |
|
EUMAM-UA |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
7 |
4 |
|
Total |
1647 |
1651 |
1649 |
1641 |
1538 |
507 |
43. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will report on the engagement of his Department with the Irish Defence and Security Association; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10944/24]
View answerThe Irish Defence and Security Association (IDSA) was established in 2021 with a mission “to ensure Ireland develops appropriate, leading edge and trusted defence and security capabilities in the land, sea, air, space and cyber domains, in order to protect our society, create jobs, drive research and enhance Ireland’s economic growth”.
National Defence Industry Associations’ (NDIA) are the norm in many EU member states, providing support to industry operating in defence markets in a number of ways, by creating networks, disseminating information and assisting contractors to find suitable sub-contractors. They are important for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). The IDSA also plays a role in bridging the gap between Irish industry and Defence through regular engagement with the civil/military team in the Research, Technology and Innovation (RTI) Unit within the Department of Defence.
The RTI Unit, which was established in 2021, has set a new strategic direction for Defence innovation and collaboration by driving internal innovation in the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces and contributing to the development of a security and defence dual-use innovation eco-system. The Defence RTI Unit also aims to support Irish enterprise and research bodies in accessing EU funding streams, including through the European Defence Fund and the European Defence Agency and their engagement with European networks and SMEs across the EU.
Regular engagement between the IDSA and the RTI Unit supports those objectives and includes the sharing of information regarding European Defence Fund and other opportunities that could benefit Irish industry, SME's and research institutes.
The IDSA have participated in the annual Defence networking and information events hosted by the RTI Unit for Irish Industry and Higher Level Academic Institutions. The Chairman of the Association gave a presentation at last years event and also met with officials in my Department to discuss defence industry related matters.
At Ministerial level, I corresponded in writing with the IDSA during 2023 and my predecessor, Minister Coveney met with the Association at their request in 2022. Matters relating to financing of European Defence Fund projects and other opportunities for Irish enterprises to access funding were among the topics discussed.
As required the IDSA is registered in line with The Regulation of Lobbying legislation as “Defence Security Industry and Research Ireland CLG (Irish Defence and Security Association (IDSA))".
44. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to clarify the number of redundancies, or so called ‘exit-packages’, that have been paid to staff or personnel at any level of seniority in his Department, or in any agency or body under the aegis of his Department, from 2018 to date; the value of each and the total value, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10981/24]
View answerThe only State body currently under the aegis of my Department is the Army Pensions Board which is an independent statutory body, established under the Army Pensions Act 1927. The secretary to the Board is provided from my Department’s staff.
No redundancies, or ‘exit-packages’ were paid to staff or personnel at any level of seniority in my Department, however a limited set of Ministerial Personal staff, namely Ministerial Civilian Drivers and Ministerial Advisors were entitled to redundancy/severance packages following formation of a new Government in 2020. On receipt of advice from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) outlining severance terms, a total payment of €42,670.46 severance pay issued from my Department. Any payments set out were reported in the relevant annual appropriation accounts, as required.
45. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of exit and or severance and or redundancy packages granted by his Department, and bodies under his aegis, and of bodies he funds in full or in part, of €200,000 and above in the years 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and to date in 2024; and if he will provide the amount of same, body, name and year. [11010/24]
View answerThe only State body currently under the aegis of my Department is the Army Pensions Board which is an independent statutory body, established under the Army Pensions Act 1927. The secretary to the Board is provided from my Department’s staff.
I can confirm there has been no exit, severance or redundancy packages of €200,000 and above granted by my Department in any of the years from 2019 to date.
46. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to list all staff/management exit packages for staff/management in their Departments that they sanctioned since 2016 (details supplied). [11155/24]
View answerA limited set of Ministerial Personal staff, namely Ministerial Civilian Drivers and Ministerial Advisors were entitled to redundancy/severance packages following formation of a new Government in 2020. On receipt of advice from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) outlining severance terms, a total payment of €42,670.46 severance pay issued from my Department. Any payments set out were reported in the relevant annual appropriation accounts, as required. No official sanction from DPER was required in this instance.
47. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport if he will initiate discussions with Bus Éireann concerning its service from Southeast Technological University, Waterford serving Clonmel and Cahir in County Tipperary (details supplied); if he will support a proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10868/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
48. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Transport if there will be increased frequency of the C1, C2, C3 and C4 buses at peak times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10894/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
49. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if his plans fully support the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities by developing mandatory accessibility regulations in conjunction with the National Transport Authority. [10904/24]
View answerThe Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Inclusion and Youth and the Minister of State for Disabilities have overarching responsibility in Ireland for the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities (UNCPRD). My Department, and the National Transport Authority (NTA) will comply with all guidance from either Minister regarding the implementation of the UNCRPD.
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 the provision of public transport infrastructure as well as the provision of an accessible, integrated public transport system for all users. The NTA works with the relevant public transport companies, as appropriate.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
50. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Transport to clarify the number of redundancies, or so called ‘exit-packages’, that have been paid to staff or personnel at any level of seniority in his Department, or in any agency or body under the aegis of his Department, from 2018 to date; the value of each and the total value, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10996/24]
View answerI can confirm to the Deputy that the redundancy / exit packages paid to staff or personnel in my Department from 2018 were issued under the terms of severance / redundancy schemes for Ministerial Personal Staff whose appointments were co-terminous with the relevant Minister / Minister of State. The calculation of severance payments to Ministerial Personal Staff were made in accordance with the guidance issued by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. Redundancy payments were calculated in accordance with statutory redundancy arrangements. Details of the relevant payments issued are as follows:
|
Year |
Number of Redundancies/Exit Packages paid to staff |
Total Value |
|
2020 |
5 |
€117,379 |
My Department currently has 19 agencies under its aegis, of which there are 12 commercial and 7 non-commercial agencies.
The Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies 2016 outlines the disclosure requirements for inclusion within the agencies Annual Reports and Financial Statements. These disclosures by the agencies include termination/severance payments and agreements which come to an aggregate value of €1,000 for each reporting period.
4 employees across 3 Transport agencies availed of voluntary redundancy and severance schemes outside of the table below, however, the number of individuals involved means that this information cannot be provided as to do so would infringe on the right of the individuals under General Data Protection Regulations. The cumulative value of these packages was €513,529.
Information requested by the Deputy for the period 2018 to date is outlined in tabular form below.
|
Year |
Agency |
Number of Redundancies/Exit Packages paid to staff |
Value of each Redundancy/Exit Package* |
Total Value |
|
2019 |
daa plc |
Voluntary Severance Scheme 14 employees |
- |
€1.50m |
|
2020 |
daa plc |
Voluntary Early Retirement Scheme 217 employees |
- |
€64.20m |
|
2020 |
daa plc |
Voluntary Severance Scheme 542 employees |
- |
€34.70m |
|
2018 |
The Shannon Airport Group |
Voluntary Severance Scheme VER 27 employees |
- |
€2.50m |
|
2020 |
The Shannon Airport Group |
Voluntary Severance Scheme VER 47 employees |
|
€4.30m |
|
Irish Aviation Authority |
31 May 2021 |
VER/VSS 9 employees |
- |
€1.40m |
|
2019 & 2020 |
Dublin Port company |
Voluntary Redundancy Programme 26 employees |
- |
€4.01m |
|
2018 to date |
Bus Éireann |
Redundancy exit packages 123 employees |
- |
€9.23m |
|
2018 to date |
CIÉ Group |
Redundancy exit packages 9 employees |
- |
€0.60m |
Information in relation to Iarnród Éireann is currently unavailable and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
51. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 264 of 17 January 2024 and 176 of 20 February 2024 (details supplied), if he will contact the Road Safety Authority and request that it urgently replies to the query in relation to an applicant for a CPC test stating that the matter was being referred to the RSA for direct reply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11001/24]
View answerMy officials have contacted the RSA in relation to this matter and have asked that a response be issued as promptly as possible.
52. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the number of exit and or severance and or redundancy packages granted by his Department, and bodies under his aegis, and of bodies he funds in full or in part, of €200,000 and above in the years 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and to date in 2024; and if he will provide the amount of same, body, name and year. [11025/24]
View answerThe only exit packages agreed by my Department under the terms of severance / redundancy schemes since 2019 were paid to Ministerial Personal Staff whose appointments were co-terminous with the relevant Minister / Minister of State. The calculation of severance payments to Ministerial Personal Staff were made in accordance with guidance issued by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. I can confirm that no exit or redundancy packages of €200,000 and above were granted by my Department in the years 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and to date in 2024.
My Department currently has 19 agencies under its aegis, of which there are 12 commercial and 7 non-commercial agencies.
The Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies 2016 outlines the disclosure requirements for inclusion within the agencies Annual Reports and Financial Statements. These disclosures by the agencies include Termination/Severance Payments and Agreements which come to an aggregate value of €1,000 for each reporting period.
Information requested by the Deputy for the period 2019 to 2024 YTD is outlined in tabular form below.
|
Department of Transport |
||||
|
Year |
Agency |
Number of Exit/Severance/Redundancy packages paid to staff |
Total amount of each Package = or more than €200k* |
Name |
|
2019 & 2020* |
daa plc |
99 |
€31.71m |
Voluntary Severance 2012 & 2020 Scheme and Voluntary Early Retirement Scheme |
|
2021 |
daa plc |
54 |
€20.09m |
Voluntary Severance Scheme and Voluntary Early Retirement Scheme |
|
2022 |
daa plc |
13 |
€4.70m |
Voluntary Severance Scheme and Voluntary Early Retirement Scheme |
|
2023 |
The Shannon Airport Group |
2 |
€0.498m |
Voluntary Severance Scheme |
|
2019,2020,2023* |
Dublin Port Company |
7 |
€1.759m |
Redundancy/Exit package |
|
Department of Transport |
||||
|
Year |
Agency |
Number of Exit/Severance/Redundancy packages paid to staff |
Total amount of each Package = or more than €200k* |
Name |
|
2019 & 2020* |
daa plc |
99 |
€31.71m |
Voluntary Severance 2012 & 2020 Scheme and Voluntary Early Retirement Scheme |
|
2021 |
daa plc |
54 |
€20.09m |
Voluntary Severance Scheme and Voluntary Early Retirement Scheme |
|
2022 |
daa plc |
13 |
€4.70m |
Voluntary Severance Scheme and Voluntary Early Retirement Scheme |
|
2023 |
The Shannon Airport Group |
2 |
€0.498m |
Voluntary Severance Scheme |
|
2019,2020,2023* |
Dublin Port Company |
7 |
€1.759m |
Redundancy/Exit package |
* As outlined above due to GDPR implications, my Department is unable to provide an individual breakdown of this information
Information in relation to Iarnród Éireann is currently unavailable and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
53. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport if any application has been made of the L2779 between Mackey's Cross and junction with Old Blarney road. [11032/24]
View answerIn accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants. Of these grants, the vast majority (approximately 90%) are targeted at the maintenance and renewal of the existing network with c. 10% of the remaining funding invested in new roads/bridges or for road realignments.
The Department sought applications in Q3 of 2023 for consideration for funding under several works programmes on regional and local roads to be carried out by local authorities in 2024. The schemes for inclusion in the applications are decided by the local authorities.
According to my Department's records, an application was not received from Cork City Council in regards to works on the L2779 between Mackeys Cross and junction with Old Blarney Road.
54. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport the reason a reply has not been issued to Parliamentary Question No. 206 of 13 February 2024 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11043/24]
View answerDeputy Ó Cuív,
Our records show that my Department issued a response to Parliamentary Question 6316 in advance of the deadline of the 13th of February. The response is included below:
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
In terms of investment, Iarnród Éireann intend to add to the existing operational fleet, in line with prevailing demand. Iarnród Éireann is maximising use of their rolling stock to meet demand and will continue to monitor passenger loadings. The next significant rail expansion involves two initial orders of 185 electric and battery-electric carriages for the DART+ Fleet, placed in December 2021 (95 carriages) and December 2022 (90 carriages). Up to 750 carriages in total are to be ordered over the coming decade. The first 95 carriages will arrive from mid-2024, entering service from 2025. This will allow for further service improvements across the rail network, and it will allow for increased capacity.
The query raised by the Deputy in relation to passenger numbers is an operational matter for Irish Rail. Therefore, I have referred the Deputy's question to Irish Rail for direct response to the Deputy. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days
As above, this Parliamentary Question was referred to Irish Rail to issue you with a more substantive answer to your question. Our records show that Irish Rail issued such a response to you on the 27th of February.
55. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport if there are any plans to open the Bus Éireann office in Killarney on a full-time basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11060/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
The question raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Bus Éíreann. Therefore, I have referred the question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
56. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Transport to list all staff/management exit packages for staff/management in their Departments that they sanctioned since 2016 (details supplied). [11170/24]
View answerI can confirm to the Deputy that the only exit packages agreed by my Department under the terms of severance / redundancy schemes since 2016 were paid to Ministerial Personal Staff whose appointments were co-terminous with the relevant Minister / Minister of State. The calculation of severance payments to Ministerial Personal Staff were made in accordance with guidance issued by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. Redundancy payments were calculated in accordance with statutory redundancy arrangements. The relevant payments were issued to 5 Ministerial Personal Staff in 2020.
57. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport if a bridge with historic value will be retained when works to upgrade a national road in County Kerry (details supplied) are carried out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11178/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Public Spending Code and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you on the status of this project.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
58. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport if an existing bridge on a national road in County Kerry (details supplied) will be bypassed when the road is upgraded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11192/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Public Spending Code and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
59. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport how he expects a recent allocation of €150,000 to be spent on the N86 improvement scheme in 2024; if this will allow for substantial construction of the next phase of the scheme in 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11193/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the planning, design and construction of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Public Spending Code and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
60. Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for Finance the updated position regarding the review of the disabled drivers’ and disabled passengers' scheme; the criteria for the primary medical certificate; what stage the review is at; what steps have been taken since the publication of the working group report; what changes are being proposed; the timeframe for the implementation of the proposed changes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10844/24]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that the final report of the National Disability Inclusion Strategy (NDIS) Transport Working Group's review of mobility and transport supports including the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passenger’s Scheme (DDS), endorsed proposals for a modern, fit-for-purpose vehicle adaptation scheme in line with international best practice that would replace the DDS.
The Working Group was chaired by Minister Anne Rabbitte and led by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY).
Access to transport for people with disabilities is a multifaceted issue that involves work carried out by multiple Government departments and agencies. Consequently under the aegis of the Department of Taoiseach officials from relevant Departments and agencies are meeting to discuss the issues arising from the NDIS report and to map a way forward.
My officials are proactively engaging with this Senior Officials Group's (SOG) work as an important step in considering ways to replace the DDS, as one specific personal transport response, in the context of broader Government consideration of holistic, multifaceted and integrated transport and mobility supports for those with a disability. Three meetings of the group have been held, in July, November and December 2023.
The Department of Finance has recently submitted a note to the group with my approval in mid-January 2024. This note outlines a proposal for a replacement scheme for the DDS which would be a needs-based, grant-led approach for necessary vehicle adaptations that could serve to improve the functional mobility of the individual. This proposal is in line with what the NDIS Transport Working Group Report endorsed.
It is expected that this note will be considered by the SOG at a forthcoming meeting of the group. In that context, the Deputy should note that any further changes to the existing DDS would run counter to NDIS proposals to entirely replace the scheme with a modern, fit-for-purpose vehicular adaptation scheme.
Finally the Deputy should be aware that while my Department has oversight of the DDS, it does not have responsibility for disability policy, so any decision to put in place a new scheme to replace it will be a matter for Government.
61. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 149 of 27 February 2024, if he can clarify if there was no cost of the Exchequer in the years 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003, or if the Revenue Commissioners does not have this information, if he can provide the uptake in terms of the number of properties that were availing of section 50 in each of the years 2000 to 2021, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10976/24]
View answerI am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that for the tax year 2003 and earlier years claims for tax incentive schemes on property were aggregated in tax returns with other claims and could not be distinguished from other reliefs claimed. Accordingly, the specific information on costs for 2003 and earlier years are not available.
I am also advised by the Revenue Commissioners that data on the number of properties that were availing of section 50 relief is not available.
62. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Finance to clarify the number of redundancies, or so called ‘exit-packages’, that have been paid to staff or personnel at any level of seniority in his Department, or in any agency or body under the aegis of his Department, from 2018 to date; the value of each and the total value, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10985/24]
View answerAll lump sum payments to civil servants retiring from the Department of Finance are paid from Vote 12 Superannuation and Retired Allowances overseen by the Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform subject to normal eligibility requirements.
Ministerial personal staff employed on temporary contracts are entitled to severance/ex-gratia payments, including statutory redundancy, when such contracts are terminated, which is mainly following a change of Government. The severance terms are set out by the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform and are based on salary, aligned to civil service pay scales, and years’ service. All such severance/ex-gratia payments under these terms are calculated and paid out by the National Shared Services Office and published each year in the Department’s Appropriation Account. Details for the 2023 Appropriation Account are currently being finalised.
Redundancy terms for the bodies under the aegis of my Department are consistent with those approved by the Department of Public Expenditure NDP Delivery and Reform. Any redundancies implemented in the timeline specified were within the terms set by the Department of Public Expenditure NDP Delivery and Reform. The National Asset Management Agency (NAMA), which is in wind down, has operated a redundancy scheme comprising redundancy payments and a retention payment since 2015. This scheme has been approved by the Minister for Finance since 2015.
