Written Answers Nos. 141-161
141. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his recruitment plans for 2024; the extent to which he plans to increase the strength of the Defence Forces in 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13442/24]
View answer146. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of women applying for and enlisting in the Defence Forces, with equal respect to the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13447/24]
View answer149. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the numbers enlisted in the Permanent Defence Forces at present; the proposals, if any, to have substantial recruitment and the timescale for increasing personnel in the Army; Air Corps and Naval Service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13501/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 141, 146 and 149 together.
The strength of the PDF, as at 31 January 2024 the latest date for which such figures are available, stood at 7,504 personnel, 6,281 of which were enlisted.
I have acknowledged the current staffing difficulties previously and I have instructed the military authorities that additional enlisted personnel and Cadets be recruited in 2024 beyond the initial projected induction figure proposed. An allocation of €1.23 billion for the Defence Sector in Budget 2024, which includes a provision for the recruitment and training of at least a net additional 400 enlisted personnel in 2024, will assist in this regard.
There are currently a number of recruitment and retention initiatives underway to counter staffing difficulties and increase capacity. An example includes the recent increase in the maximum retirement age for PDF personnel to 60 years. This retention measure also facilitates an increase in the maximum recruitment age to 39 years for General Service Recruits, Cadets and certain specialists with effect from 29 March 2024.
In 2023 there were 1,117 female applications to the Permanent Defence Force consisting of 695 Army, 257 Air Corps and 165 Naval Service. There were 37 female inductions in 2023 consisting of 24 Army, 5 Air Corps and 8 Naval Service. In 2024 as of the 29th February there were 193 female applications consisting of 107 Army, 52 Air Corps and 34 Naval Service. 2024 inductions are scheduled to begin shortly.
Special consideration is paid to women as a target group for recruitment within the general recruitment framework and the High Level Action Plan agreed by Government on the Commission on the Defence Forces contains a range of recommendations designed to assist in increasing female participation in the Defence Forces. The Government remains committed to increasing female participation rates at all levels of the Defence Forces in order to increase capability and to better reflect the society from which the Defence Forces are drawn and serve.
142. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the extent to which retirements and resignations in the Defence Forces have been replaced with a view to ensuring an adequate management structure throughout; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13443/24]
View answer144. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of current vacant promotional positions waiting to be filled throughout the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13445/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 142 and 144 together.
The number of personnel inducted and departing varies from year to year. The manpower requirement of the Defence Forces is monitored on an ongoing basis in accordance with the operational requirements of each of the three services.
As at 31 January 2024, the latest date for which such figures are available, there were 1,112 positions. that could be filled in line with promotional arrangements and, in certain cases, by Direct Entry recruitment.
I have previously acknowledged there are staffing challenges in the Defence Forces and the problem is most acute in the enlisted ranks, as Officer ranks are close to establishment strength. I have instructed the military authorities that additional enlisted personnel and Cadets be recruited in 2024. An allocation of €1.23 billion for the Defence Sector in Budget 2024, which includes a provision for the recruitment and training of at least a net additional 400 enlisted personnel in 2024, will assist in this regard.
There are currently a number of recruitment and retention initiatives underway to increase capacity. An example includes the recent increase in the maximum retirement age for PDF personnel to 60 years. This retention measure also facilitates an increase in the maximum recruitment age to 39 years for General Service Recruits, Cadets and certain specialists with effect from 29 March 2024.
My immediate focus remains on stabilising the numbers of personnel, and to facilitate capacity for further increase
143. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the extent to which participation by the Defence Forces in international missions is envisaged in 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13444/24]
View answer147. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of military personnel serving at various locations overseas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13448/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 143 and 147 together.
As of 6 March 2024, Ireland is contributing 553 personnel to 8 different missions throughout the world` and reflects the Government's continued commitment to our responsibilities in the area of international peace and security. The main overseas missions in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed are the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with 345 personnel and the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Syria with 130 personnel. Ireland also contributes observers and staff to various United Nations and OSCE missions and personnel to staff appointments at UN, EU, NATO/PfP and OSCE headquarters.
Ireland has always been a strong supporter of the United Nations and UN Peacekeeping. Our commitment and support for the primary role of the United Nations, in the maintenance of international peace and security, is expressed in Ireland's long-standing tradition of participating in UN peacekeeping operations. This commitment is also expressed in our engagement in the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).
There are currently no plans to increase our commitment to UN peacekeeping in terms of participation in further missions. There Irish Defence Forces will finish as planned in the UNDOF mission in April this year after ten years of participation in this operation.
With regard to any future deployments of Defence Forces personnel overseas, Ireland receives requests from time to time in relation to participation in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis. The changing nature of demands and potential future mission profiles need to be considered in the context of assets and capabilities which can be made available by the Defence Forces for overseas deployment, given existing operational demands at home and overseas.
Full details of all personnel currently serving in missions overseas are listed below.
MEMBERS OF THE PERMANENT DEFENCE FORCE SERVING OVERSEAS
As of 06 March 2024
|
UN MISSIONS |
|
|
UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) HQUNIFIL 123rd Infantry BattalionUNIFIL Sector West HQ |
83325 |
|
UNTSO (United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation) Israel & Syria |
11 |
|
UNDOF (COS Staff/FHQ Staff - Camp Faouar - Bravo side)UNDOF 67th Infantry Group (Camp Faouar - Bravo side) |
6124 |
|
TOTAL |
486 |
|
UN MANDATED MISSIONS |
|
|
EUFOR (EU-led Operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina) |
4 |
|
KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) HQ |
13 |
|
Naval Service EU Mission (Op Irini OHQ -3, FHQ - 1 ) |
4 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING WITH UN MISSIONS |
507 |
|
ORGANISATION FOR SECURITY AND CO-OPERATION IN EUROPE (OSCE) |
|
|
Staff Officer, High Level Planning Group, Vienna |
1 |
|
EU MILITARY STAFF |
|
|
Brussels |
8 |
|
German Led Battle Group 2024-2,FHQ , Stadtallendorf |
9 |
|
MILITARY REPRESENTATIVES/ADVISERS/STAFF |
|
|
Military Adviser, Permanent Mission to UN, New York |
1 |
|
Military Adviser, Irish Delegation to OSCE, Vienna |
1 |
|
Military Representative in PSC Delegation (Brussels) |
4 |
|
Liaison Office of Ireland, NATO/PfP (Brussels) |
3 |
|
EU OHQ Operation Althea, Mons, Belgium |
1 |
|
Irish Liaison Officer to SHAPE & Military Co-Op Division, Mons, Belgium |
1 |
|
Military C-IED expert, UN Training Entebbe |
1 |
|
EUMAM UA |
16 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF DEFENCE FORCES PERSONNEL SERVING OVERSEAS |
553 |
148. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the extent to which the budget available to his Department remains sufficient to meet requirements in the course of 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13449/24]
View answerThe 2024 Revised Estimates Volume (REV) provides an allocation of €1.25 billion in Defence Group funding, an increase of €40 million over 2023. The Defence Vote Group includes the Defence and Army Pensions Votes. The allocations for 2024 are €933 million for the Defence Vote and €317 million for the Army Pensions Vote. This significant level of funding will further enable progress on the transformation of the Defence Forces in line with the obje.ctives and timeframes outlined in the Defence Strategic Framework, published last September.
The increased current expenditure allocation of €757 million on the Defence Vote will not only address existing spending pressures across many operational areas, but will also include targeted funding for a number of key recommendations arising from the CODF and the IRG, such as:
• An increased Defence Forces Medical Healthcare allocation to cover the full year costs of extended healthcare to all Defence Forces personnel;
• A significant provision specifically to meet the 2024 costs of the Tribunal of Inquiry arising from the IRG Report;
• A significant increase in the advertising allocation to support an enhanced Defence Forces recruitment effort throughout 2024;
• An increased Civilian Support allocation to facilitate further progression of civilian recruitment and to also allow for an increased spend on the essential engagement of external expertise and services.
The Permanent Defence Force pay and allowances budget of €493 million will be used to meet the ongoing pay and allowance costs of a Permanent Defence Force (PDF) strength of 7,700 and will also facilitate the recruitment of an additional net 400 PDF personnel throughout 2024.
Recruitment and retention of personnel is a key priority for me. My Department has progressed a number of activities relating to recruitment and retention and related HR issues in the Defence Forces, including commissioning from the ranks, the re-entry of former PDF personnel with specific skills, an Air Corps Service Commitment Scheme, the Naval Service Tax Credit and extending service limits for Privates, Corporals and Sergeants.
Last November I announced that, with effect from 01 January 2024, the Patrol Duty Allowance (PDA) paid to Naval Service personnel will be doubled after ten days at sea, and earlier this month, following Government approval, I announced that the mandatory retirement age for PDF personnel will increase to 60 and the maximum recruitment age will be raised to 39, with both measures taking effect from 29th March, 2024. I believe that these positive, progressive measures will provide further support to the ongoing PDF recruitment and retention effort, which remains challenging in a buoyant economy.
The capital investment budget of €176 million for Defence remains at its highest ever level, and, along with progressing the strategically important development of primary radar capabilities, will facilitate investment in, inter alia, the Defence Forces communications systems, military transport aircraft, force protection equipment, transport vehicles, military engineering equipment and ICT projects. It will also enable continued investment in Defence Forces installations throughout the country.
The Defence Vote also provides funding for Civil Defence, Irish Red Cross Society and the Reserve Defence Force.
The 2024 Army Pensions (Vote 35) allocation of €317 million will provide funding for 13,475 Army Pensioners and certain dependants.
I remain satisfied that the 2024 allocation of €1.25 billion will enable the Defence Forces to effectively undertake all roles approved by Government, both at home and overseas, while also allowing considerable progress on the transformation agenda underway throughout the Defence Forces.
150. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the progress to date in implementing the Report of the Commission on Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13502/24]
View answerAs Minister, I am deeply committed to the transformation of the Defence Forces into a modern fit for purpose organisation to defend the State and meet the challenges of today and the future.
The Commission on the Defence Forces was established on foot of a commitment in the Programme for Government, and its report was published on the 9th of February 2022. There were 69 main recommendations and with sub recommendations there were 130 recommendations in total. The Commission undertook a significant body of work, encompassing wide-ranging terms of reference. It recommended significant changes for the Defence Forces and Defence provision in Ireland. It covered high-level Defence Forces structures, defence capabilities, organisation, culture and human resources, the Reserve Defence Force and funding.
Given the significant recommendations contained in the Report, detailed consideration of these recommendations was undertaken over a period of 5 months by the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces. Following this engagement, a High Level Action Plan (HLAP) and a Memo for Government were brought to Government and approved on July 12th 2022. This involved the approval of a move to ‘Level of Ambition 2’ (LOA2), as set out in the capability framework devised by the Commission on the Defence Forces. The move to LOA2 is due to be complete by 2028. This will result in the Defence budget rising from €1.1 billion to €1.5 billion, in 2022 prices, by 2028, the largest increase in Defence funding in the history of the State. This will allow for the required substantial transformation and investment in recruitment and equipment that were identified by the Commission.
The Detailed Implementation Plan for the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces, was published on the 21st of November last. This plan sets out an ambitious programme of work to move to ‘Level of Ambition 2’ (LOA 2) by 2028 and the significant and fundamental change for the Defence Forces that will be delivered across the Commission’s recommendations which span:
• Strategic HR and Cultural Change;
• New Command and Control and Joint Structures to be established;
• Services to be reformed and restructured;
• Reserve Defence Force to be revitalised; and
• Joint Capability Development to be implemented
Much progress has been achieved since the Commission’s report was published, with 16 recommendations completed and work ongoing across many others. Government noted that, in light of the Commission’s report, there is an urgent need for HR and cultural transformation in the Defence Forces and this will be prioritised.
While we are still in the early stages of the transformation process, a number of recommendations that have been implemented to-date have had a significant impact on members of the Defence Forces.
I recently announced new changes to the existing Naval Service allowances, as a means of simplifying current structures, by consolidating the daily allowance and the sea-going commitment scheme into one enhanced allowance. This is in line with the Commission on Defence Forces recommendation to replace existing sea-going allowances with less complex measures. The sea-going commitment scheme was abolished from the end of 2023.
Specifically, the current Patrol Duty Allowance, paid to Naval Service personnel, will be doubled after ten days at sea. This measure has taken effect from 1 January 2024.
In addition to this, healthcare afforded to officer ranks has been extended to enlisted ranks.
Also, all personnel of Private 3 Star/Able Seaman rank are now paid the full rate of Military Service Allowance (MSA) applicable to the rank, and, the requirement for that cohort to ‘mark time’ for the first three years at that rank has been removed.
However a great deal of work still needs to be done and it will need concerted effort by all involved.
The Detailed Implementation Plan sets out the significant progress that is expected in 2024. By the end of this year it is anticipated that 54 of the Commission's recommendations will be fully implemented, with many more being progressed over the course of the year.
Transformation efforts of this magnitude take time, and can only be successful if they are built on solid foundations. I have confidence that the structures that have been put in place and progress to date will ensure the successful delivery of the transformation effort.
Following the publication of the Report of the Independent Review Group on Dignity and Equality issues in the Defence Forces in March 2023, I set out my priority to develop one Strategic Framework for the transformation of the Defence Forces, so it would be fully understandable to everyone.
The Strategic Framework, which I published in September 2023, brings together into one overarching document, the immediate actions to be taken to support the transformation of the Defence Forces.
My priority within this transformation is cultural change above all else. The end goal of this cultural change is to ensure that the Defence Forces is an equal opportunities employer, reflective of contemporary Irish society and that is providing a safe workplace where
• self-worth is actively promoted,
• mutual respect becomes a dominant feature,
• all members are treated with dignity,
• in an organisation that continuously evolves to deliver positive change.
Against the reality of the current global and European threat landscape, it is more important than ever that Ireland has a well-functioning, professional and well-equipped Defence Forces.
I am confident and determined that through the Strategic Framework, and the Detailed Implementation Plan, we will realise our shared ambition for the transformation of the Defence Forces accompanied with clear and irrefutable evidence of change on the ground for serving members.
151. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the programme of improvement works that will be undertaken this year at Army barracks throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13503/24]
View answerThe Defence Forces Infrastructure Development Plan (IDP) sets out a programme of project delivery for the years 2023 to 2027. The Programme reflects the complex environment in which the Defence Forces operate and the corresponding need for appropriate infrastructure to provide for accommodation and training of personnel, as well as maintenance and storage of equipment for land, sea and airborne operational requirements.
The Deputy may wish to note that there are currently over €147m worth of IDP projects underway at different stages of development, from design planning and construction to substantial completion. Significant projects include:
• Upgrade and refurbishment of three buildings at McKee Barracks (Printing Press Block F office block and former Chief of Staff house for conversion to a medical facility
• Casement Aerodrome Military Medical Facility
• Upgrade of two buildings (Block 4 Accommodation and Block 9 Office Block at the Naval Base, Haulbowline
• Upgrade of former USAC Accommodation Block, Galway
• New CIS Workshop Facility, Defence Forces Training Centre
• A New Accommodation Block and Refurbishment of Block 1 at Collins Barracks
• Aikens Barracks Dining Hall
• Stephen’s Barracks Block C accommodation
• ARW New HQ Building
• Various projects to develop the Joint Induction Training Centre in Gormanston Camp
• Gymnasium works at Finner Camp, Casement Aerodrome, Haulbowline Naval Base and Renmore Barracks
• Coolmoney Camp New Vehicle Garaging Facility
• DFTC Garaging Facility
• Casement Aerodrome - Hangar 3 Upgrade and New Doors
152. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the status of the Government's plan to bring forward legislation to remove the Triple Lock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13559/24]
View answerThe so-called Triple Lock mechanism sets out the conditions for the deployment of Defence Forces' personnel for peacekeeping operations overseas. These include that the operation must be mandated by the UN, (either by the Security Council or General Assembly), approved by the Government and it must be approved by way of resolution of Dáil Éireann, where the size of the Defence Force contribution is more than 12 personnel.
Last year’s Consultative Forum on International Security Policy featured a well-informed discussion on the issue of UN peacekeeping and the Triple Lock, which was reflected in the Chair’s report. As I have set out in the Dáil, we clearly need a new process to replace the current system which effectively allows UN Security Council members to bind Ireland’s hands in its international engagement. Arising from this, I have instructed officials in my Department to prepare legislative proposals without delay that would govern future overseas deployments of our Defence Forces. Work on the preparation of those legislative proposals is advancing, with a view to proposals being brought to Government shortly. It is important that I emphasise, however, that any legislative proposals will remain fully consistent with the principles of the UN Charter and international law.
As the Deputy will be aware, the General Scheme of any Bill will be brought for pre-legislative scrutiny consideration by the Oireachtas Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence to determine if pre-legislative scrutiny is required. Any proposals agreed by Government will then have to be presented to, debated and approved by the Dáil and Seanad, thus providing the Oireachtas with ample opportunity to scrutinise any such proposals.
Any modification to the Triple Lock will continue to require Government and Dáil approval, where appropriate, for the dispatch of Defence Forces’ personnel to take part in peacekeeping and similar missions and will do nothing to change Ireland’s traditional position of military neutrality, which is characterised by Ireland's non-participation in any military alliance.
153. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide a progress update on the execution of the DART + Programme and in particular the Dart West and Dart South West programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8008/24]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, as Minister for Transport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport in Ireland, including in relation to the rail network. The National Transport Authority, or NTA, has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, including the DART+ programme.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
154. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the northern ring road for Cork as mentioned in the National Development Plan. [5671/24]
View answerThe Government has earmarked €5.1bn for capital spending on new national roads projects from 2021 to 2030 as part of the NDP. This funding will enable improved regional accessibility across the country as well as compact growth, which are key National Strategic Outcomes. The funding will provide for the development of numerous national road projects, including the completion of projects which are already at construction stage and those close to it, as well as the development of a number of others.
As the greater portion of this funding becomes available in the second half of the decade, this means that there was a constraint on the funding available for new projects this year. As a result of this, a prioritisation exercise was necessary. In line with the NDP and Government policy, national road funding for 2024 was allocated in a manner which seeks to achieve the following key outcomes:
• Protection and renewal of the existing national road network
• Progressing major projects in or near construction
• Progressing major projects which are pre-construction but well advanced in the development pipeline
• Prioritising any remaining funds for major projects which provide for local bypasses and Compact Growth in Ireland’s towns and villages.
I can confirm that the Cork City Northern Transport Project (formally the Cork North Ring Road) did not receive an allocation in 2024, however, my Department and TII are in regular communication regarding specific projects and the national roads programme more generally. As with all national roads projects in the NDP, the delivery programme for the Cork City Northern Transport Project will be kept under review for 2025 and in future years and considered in terms of the overall funding envelope available to TII.
155. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Transport what engagement he or his Department have had with a company (details supplied) the cessation from 8 April 2024 of route 706/706x which serves Galway, Athlone, Maynooth and Dublin Airport and if he will make a statement on the impact this closure will have on commuters and students attending Maynooth University.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13332/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I am responsible for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. However, I am not involved in day-to-day operational matters. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling of those services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators.
While most public transport in Ireland comprises the bus and rail services funded through the NTA’s public service obligation (PSO) programme, there is part of the national public transport system that comprises non-subvented bus services, which are run on a commercial basis by bus and coach businesses of varying sizes throughout the country. As a commercial operator, any decisions taken by Aircoach regarding routes scheduling and timetabling are a matter for the company, the NTA has no powers to refuse an application from an operator to reduce or withdraw services on a commercial route.
In circumstances where a commercial operator ceases operating a specific route, such as Aircoach route 706/706X, the NTA undertakes an examination to determine whether, with the discontinuation of the commercial service, it is necessary for a replacement PSO service to be introduced to ensure no loss of connectivity to the travelling public. This process includes an assessment of the level of demand for public transport services in the affected area, an evaluation of whether existing PSO services can be reconfigured to meet any shortfall, or whether it is necessary to competitively tender for the provision of services.
Given the NTA's statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally, I have also forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
156. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Transport the total value of funding that has been allocated to Laois for 2024 from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII); and what percentage is that of TII's total budget for 2024. [13333/24]
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 and Greenways are a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. Section 19 (2) of the Roads Act requires that TII shall, as far as possible, arrange that its functions (including prepare, or arrange for the preparation of, design for construction or improvement works or securing the carrying out of construction works) shall be performed on its behalf by the relevant road authority (i.e., the relevant Local Authority). Therefore, TII provides allocations to Local Authorities on an annual basis, so they can deliver on their road authority functions on behalf of TII in relation to greenway and national roads.
Allocations for Laois in 2024
Capital Investment - Protection & Renewal & Active Travel €3,796,000
Current Maintenance - Protection & Renewal €445,949
Greenways €50,000
Total €4,291,949
National allocations in 2024
Capital Investment - Protection & Renewal & Active Travel €265,160,000
Current Maintenance - Protection & Renewal €32,850,000
Greenways €63,865,000
Total €361,875,000
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply updating you as to works which are taking place in Laois during 2024. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
157. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Transport the total value of funding that has been allocated to Offaly for 2024 from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII); and what percentage of that is TII's total budget for 2024. [13334/24]
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 and Greenways are a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. Section 19 (2) of the Roads Act requires that TII shall, as far as possible, arrange that its functions (including prepare, or arrange for the preparation of, design for construction or improvement works or securing the carrying out of construction works) shall be performed on its behalf by the relevant road authority (i.e., the relevant Local Authority). Therefore, TII provides allocations to Local Authorities on an annual basis, so they can deliver on their road authority functions on behalf of TII in relation to Greenways and National Roads.
Allocations for Offaly in 2024
Capital Investment - Protection & Renewal & Active Travel €1,605,000
Current Maintenance - Protection & Renewal €373,937
Greenways €3,940,000
Total €5,918,937
National allocations in 2024
Capital Investment - Protection & Renewal & Active Travel €265,160,000
Current Maintenance - Protection & Renewal €32,850,000
Greenways €63,865,000
Total €361,875,000
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply updating you as to works which are taking place in Offaly during 2024. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
158. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide an update on the investment in greenways in Tipperary under the NDP. [13347/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to Greenways. Funding is administered through the Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) who, in partnership with local authorities, have responsibility for the selection and development of specific projects in each local authority area.Noting the role of the TII in the matter, I have referred your question to that agency for a more detailed answer. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.
159. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Transport the capital budget allocation for his Department for rail transport in the years of 2023, 2024 and 2025, in tabular form. [13348/24]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, capital allocations for 2025 will not be finalised until the end of the current year and therefore a capital allocation figure is not yet available. The below are the Revised Estimates allocations for capital investment in rail transport in relation to the years 2023 and 2024:
|
Capital Rail Allocation |
2023 |
2024 |
|
Total € millions |
525.081 |
555.056 |
My Department allocates funding for capital investment in the heavy rail network both to the National Transport Authority, for projects such as DART+ and the Cork Area Commuter Rail programme, and directly to Iarnród Éireann, primarily for the Infrastructure Manager Multi-Annual Contract that provides the funding framework for the maintenance and renewal of railway infrastructure.
Question No. 160 answered with Question No. 111.
161. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Transport how Transport Infrastructure Ireland's current practice of negotiating with groups and organisations outside of An Bord Pleanála oral hearings, not disclosing any details of subsequent agreements to An Bord Pleanála, and citing non-disclosure agreements as the reason (NDAs), is appropriate in the planning of publicly-funded projects such as MetroLink. [13359/24]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, in September 2022 Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) submitted a Railway Order application for MetroLink to An Bord Pleanála. The statutory planning consultation for the project closed in January 2023.
The Railway Order consultation period provided the opportunity for stakeholders along the MetroLink route to raise concerns with the project. As part of the Railway Order planning process, TII reviewed submissions, constructively engaged with stakeholders on their concerns, developed mitigations and prepared responses to the submissions received.
An Bord Pleanála commenced an Oral Hearing in relation to MetroLink on February 19th, which is scheduled to run until March 28th . This open and transparent process will allows planning authorities, prescribed bodies, elected representatives and observers to share their views on the project.
TII continues to engage constructively with all parties as part of the Oral Hearing. Where possible, following engagement, TII has provided An Bord Pleanála with conditions agreed by both parties aimed at addressing their specific concerns. These agreements are conditional upon the granting of a Railway Order. Certain agreements contain confidentiality provisions to protect commercially sensitive information while TII are engaging in active negotiations with stakeholders directly impacted by the project.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the MetroLink, in conjunction with TII.
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.
