Parliamentary questions

Driver Test

Michael Lowry

94. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport to examine the case of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; when they can expect to receive an invitation to book their driving test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39989/23]

Driver Test

Michael Lowry

95. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport to examine the case of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; when can they expect to receive an invitation to book their driving test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39990/23]

Driver Test

Michael Lowry

96. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport to examine the case of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; if the RSA was aware of IT issues when this person booked their driving test date; when they can expect to be placed back on the driving test waiting/invitation system and receive an invitation to book their driving test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39991/23]

Public Sector Pensions

Michael Lowry

204. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if he has received correspondence from a union (details supplied) concerning 7,000 An Post pensioners who are still awaiting agreed increases to their pensions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39977/23]

Bus Services

Michael Lowry

282. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 183 of 23 March 2023, if the procurement plan for both an operator and associated bus stop infrastructure for a town bus service in Clonmel, County Tipperary, has been finalised; if the procurement process has been completed; if the Clonmel town bus service will begin as planned in Q4 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37797/23]

Education Policy

Michael Lowry

697. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education the percentage of exemption from Irish studies applications approved by second-level schools in 2022, that were subsequently reversed or overturned by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38659/23]

Education Policy

Michael Lowry

698. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education the percentage of appeals to her Department for exemption from Irish studies that were not accepted by second-level schools, that were successful in 2022; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38660/23]

Education Policy

Michael Lowry

699. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education what methodology her Department employs to gather data on the approvals and rejections of applications for exemption from Irish studies in post-primary education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38661/23]

Social Welfare Code

Michael Lowry

1015. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Social Protection in relation to applications for carer's allowance, if she will consider abolishing the means test for carers or, alternatively, if the means of the carer be the sole consideration rather than the total household income when assessing eligibility; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38072/23]

Pharmacy Services

Michael Lowry

1508. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 169 of 14 June 2023, if he will provide an update on the review of fees that pharmacies receive from the State for the state drug payment schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37218/23]

Legislative Measures

Michael Lowry

1633. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health for an update on the patient safety (licensing) Bill; if this Bill will introduce a licensing requirement for individuals practising aesthetic medicine in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37800/23]

Foreign Birth Registration

Michael Lowry

56. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 524 of 21 March 2023, when a decision will be reached regarding the application to the foreign birth register; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36510/23]

Schools Building Projects

Michael Lowry

426. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education to provide an urgent update regarding an emergency works application submitted by a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35754/23]

Schools Building Projects

Michael Lowry

447. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education to provide an update on the current status of a school (details supplied); the scheduled date for the demolition of the old school buildings; when the site is expected to be made safe; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36205/23]

School Transport

Michael Lowry

464. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education concerning a school transport renewal application for a person (details supplied), the reasons behind the rejection and refusal of this application for the school bus service to a school for the school year 2023/2024; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36315/23]

School Transport

Michael Lowry

465. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education the reasons behind the rejection and refusal of an application for the school bus service for a student (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36316/23]

Defective Building Materials

Michael Lowry

607. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide an update on the introduction of a mica or pyrite redress scheme for households in County Tipperary; if a person (details supplied) will be able to obtain financial assistance through the mica or pyrite redress scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36228/23]

Departmental Funding

Michael Lowry

972. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will investigate the case of a company (details supplied) regarding delayed payments from his Department; the reasons for these delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35624/23]

Disability Services

Michael Lowry

997. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth for clarification and detailed information regarding the current staffing levels in the children's disability network team 5 within community healthcare organisation 5 (details supplied); if he will outline any plans or initiatives that are being put in place to address potential staffing shortages or challenges within the children's disability network team 5; if he will provide further insight and updates regarding the staffing situation in the children's disability network team 5; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35986/23]

Disabilities Assessments

Michael Lowry

1038. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will outline the governance structure of the new regional assessment of need teams; how many of these teams are or will be composed entirely of staff from the private sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36409/23]

Disabilities Assessments

Michael Lowry

1039. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will outline the total budget allocated for the regional assessment of needs teams; how many children are projected to have their assessments of need completed by these regional teams by the year-end; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36410/23]

Disabilities Assessments

Michael Lowry

1040. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if, the six planned regional assessment teams will be fully set up and operational by 1 August 2023 to address the significant waiting lists for assessments of needs; if, in the event that the teams are not fully operational by this date, he will consider allowing for the full reimbursement of private treatment expenses for children with disabilities from the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36411/23]

Dental Services

Michael Lowry

1236. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health if he will resolve a mater concerning Cork University Dental School and Hospital (CUDSH) and its reliance on CUH consultants for admissions, given that currently CUDSH consultants lack admission rights to CUH (details supplied); if he will review the ongoing issues and seek prompt intervention to ensure seamless care for CUDSH patients at CUH; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36207/23]

Disease Management

Michael Lowry

1249. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 1116 of 13 June 2023, if he can confirm when the HSE plans to meet the representative patient advocacy group for people diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36285/23]

Nursing Homes

Michael Lowry

1289. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health to outline the potential changes to the nursing homes support scheme, commonly known as fair deal, specifically the plan to introduce incentives for long-term nursing home residents to rent out their homes; when the implementation of a 0% rate of assessment for rental income obtained from a principal residence will take effect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36459/23]

Tax Code

Michael Lowry

277. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider a reduction in the rate of VAT for music and live entertainment performers (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34837/23]

School Transport

Michael Lowry

378. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education concerning a school transport renewal application for a family (details supplied) as to the reason behind the rejection and refusal of their application for the school bus service to a school for the school year 2023/2024; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35244/23]

Community Development Projects

Michael Lowry

504. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Social Protection to address an urgent matter concerning Tipperary Community Services Centre in Tipperary town (details supplied); if assistance will be provided to find a solution to this pressing issue, given the urgency of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35299/23]

Visa Agreements

Michael Lowry

120. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if progress has been made on establishing an E3 visa agreement between Ireland and the United States; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34314/23]

School Accommodation

Michael Lowry

266. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education if her Department has received and reviewed urgent correspondence from a school (details supplied) regarding a critical situation it is facing in terms of providing adequate classroom and teaching accommodation for incoming first-year and their current students in September 2023; if, taking into account the urgency of the situation, she will provide the necessary assistance the school and outline what measures and support will be provided to the school to address its current accommodation crisis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33569/23]

Legislative Measures

Michael Lowry

482. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Justice to provide clarification regarding her awareness of the concerns expressed by an organisation (details supplied) regarding the forthcoming the Gambling Regulation Bill 2022; if she will provide details on what actions she intends to undertake in order to address the concerns put forth by this registered charity; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33734/23]

Departmental Programmes

Michael Lowry

485. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Justice when an application (details supplied) will be finalised and permission granted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33765/23]

Social Welfare Appeals

Michael Lowry

265. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Social Protection if she can confirm the duration it takes to receive a decision from the Appeals Office regarding applications for carer's allowance and disability allowance that are refused and subsequently appealed; if she is aware of the hardship and stress experienced by individuals during the lengthy waiting period for an appeal decision (details supplied); the additional resources she will provide to the Appeals Office to reduce the waiting times for an appeal decision; if she will review the current issues with supplementary welfare allowance refusals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33211/23]

Tax Code

Michael Lowry

77. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Finance regarding the proposed increase in VAT to 13.5 % for the hospitality sector (details supplied) if he will give a commitment to maintain the current 9% VAT rate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32903/23]

Wildlife Regulations

Michael Lowry

107. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage further to Parliamentary Question No. 362 of 20 June 2023, if he will provide a precise list of "key stakeholders" and other “organisations of interest within the game shooting fraternity” that have been invited to engage the National Parks and Wildlife Service as part of the review and public consultation process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32947/23]

Social Welfare Appeals

Michael Lowry

139. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Social Protection to confirm the qualifications of the officers and staff within her Department who are responsible for medically assessing applications for carer's allowance and disability allowance; if she will clarify whether the staff members who review the medical reports of these applications on appeal hold a more senior medical qualification from those who initially assess and reject the original application (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33181/23]

Community Development Projects

Michael Lowry

732. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if he will provide an update on the community services programme, which aims to encourage operational employment in the community sector; if June 2023 is still the targeted deadline for announcing successful recipients; if she will give serious and honest consideration to an application by an organisation (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32830/23]

Environmental Policy

Michael Lowry

103. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Social Protection if, regarding the proposed auto-enrolment scheme for pensions and the potential allocation of funds to investments in fossil fuel exploration or extraction, she will take into consideration the recommendation put forth by the Oireachtas Committee on Social Protection, Community Development and the Islands to ensure that these funds are not invested in fossil fuels (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31557/23]

Foreign Birth Registration

Michael Lowry

88. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs when a foreign birth registration will be processed for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30544/23]

Public Sector Pensions

Michael Lowry

119. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when the agreed pension increase for An Post pensioners will be paid (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30792/23]

Transport Costs

Michael Lowry

156. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport if he will increase the current age range of the young adult Leap card from 19 to 23 to 19 to 26 years, as is the situation in the majority of European nations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30528/23]

Schools Building Projects

Michael Lowry

294. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education the status of a building project at a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30542/23]

School Funding

Michael Lowry

322. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education the status of an ICT grant for a school (details supplied); if this school will be given an allocation of ICT funding for 2022-2023; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31205/23]

Grant Payments

Michael Lowry

601. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will give a facility (details supplied) specific information regarding the reasons it was denied funding through the building blocks improvement grant 2023; if he will inform applicants of the results of his review of their appeal for the building blocks improvement grant 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31189/23]

Departmental Strategies

Michael Lowry

610. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure the prompt implementation of the 2% pay increase for all public nurses (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31191/23]

Health Services

Michael Lowry

686. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health the reason a person (details supplied) has not been called for a procedure in University Hospital Waterford; if they can obtain the procedure through the treatment purchase scheme, the cross-Border directive or the treatment abroad scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30875/23]

Health Services

Michael Lowry

687. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health the reason a person (details supplied) has not yet been called for a procedure in University Hospital Limerick; if they can obtain the procedure through the treatment purchase scheme, the cross-Border directive or the treatment abroad scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30887/23]

Third Level Education

Michael Lowry

778. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will report on a series of key aspects related to the ongoing review and the upcoming Research and Innovation Bill, 2023 and the ongoing review of PhDs in Ireland, with particular attention given towards the status of PhDs (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30512/23]

Departmental Schemes

Michael Lowry

163. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will provide clarification on the reasons an applicant (details supplied) to the warmer homes scheme was refused funding for new windows; if the applicant's urgent medical needs were taken into consideration during the assessment process by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland; what specific criteria or guidelines are followed by the SEAI when evaluating applications which may need window replacements under the warmer homes scheme; if there are any provisions or exceptions in place to accommodate applicants with urgent medical needs, especially when it pertains to improving indoor air quality, insulation and overall living conditions; in light of the applicant's urgent medical needs, what alternative solutions or recommendations can be provided to ensure their health and well-being are adequately addressed within the framework of the warmer homes scheme, as it is crucial to understand the rationale behind the refusal and to ascertain if appropriate consideration was given to the applicant's urgent medical requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30283/23]

Education Policy

Michael Lowry

241. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education if she will provide an overview of the objectives and scope of the pilot programme of counselling supports in primary schools (details supplied); how many primary schools will be selected to participate in the pilot; the criteria that will be used for their selection; the specific supports and resources that will be provided to the schools taking part in the pilot; if there will be any specialised training or professional development opportunities offered to school staff to enhance their ability to identify and address students' mental health needs effectively; the measures that will be put in place to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the pilot programme; if she will review correspondence from a concerned primary school principal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30277/23]

Schools Building Projects

Michael Lowry

323. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education further to Parliamentary Question No. 376 of 28 March 2023, the status of a school construction project (details supplied) in Thurles, County Tipperary; when the building projects will receive full and final approval; when the necessary funding will be released; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29509/23]

Wildlife Regulations

Michael Lowry

361. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide an update on the review of the game bird open seasons Order; if he will provide an update on the progress of meetings held between key stakeholders and the National Parks and Wildlife Service, as well as a list of any potential changes or recommendations that have emerged from the review and public consultation process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29181/23]

Wildlife Regulations

Michael Lowry

362. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage concerning the review of the game bird open seasons Order, if he will provide a list of key stakeholders and other organisations of interest within the game shooting fraternity that have been invited to engage the National Parks and Wildlife Service as part of the review and public consultation process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29182/23]

Departmental Schemes

Michael Lowry

475. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if applications for the native woodland conservation scheme in situations pertaining to the conversion of existing conifer forest to native woodland must be lodged with the Forestry Service before the clear felling or final harvesting of commercial sitka spruce takes place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29260/23]

Climate Change Policy

Michael Lowry

92. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications for the Government's strategy for mitigating the effects of climate change and promoting sustainable development; if he will elaborate on the key policies and measures being implemented in Ireland to achieve the country's climate goals, particularly in the areas of the farming sector, transport, renewable energy, carbon reduction and fostering a green economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28785/23]

State Examinations

Michael Lowry

207. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education the measures being taken to address the issue regarding the recent Leaving Certificate maths exam paper 1, given that concerns have been expressed by teachers and students about the wording and structure of the Leaving Certificate maths exam paper, which has caused confusion and uncertainty among students who sat the exam, to ensure fairness for all affected students; how impacted students will be accommodated in terms of grading and assessment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28999/23]

Departmental Policies

Michael Lowry

242. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Justice further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 400 and 401 of 18 May 2023, when she plans to publish both the research report and the policy paper following the public consultation on the issue of parental alienation as part of the Justice Plan 2022 on her Department’s website; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28934/23]

Recycling Policy

Michael Lowry

48. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will review correspondence from a person (details supplied) which expresses the concerns that the deposit return scheme will have on their small brewery business; the steps he will take to address these concerns; if he will be elaborating on any support mechanisms or mitigating measures that are being considered to assist small businesses in adapting to the scheme while minimising any potential adverse effects on their operations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28693/23]

Pharmacy Services

Michael Lowry

164. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health concerning the review of fees that pharmacies receive from the State for the State drug payment schemes; if he is aware that the current fees agreement that pharmacies receive for the schemes, is due to be reviewed before the end of June 2023; if he will provide an update on the progress of the review; the reasons for the lack of engagement with an organisation (details supplied) thus far; what engagement has taken place between him, the HSE, and the organisation regarding this matter; if he will provide details on the Government's commitment to ensuring a fair and sustainable fee structure that supports the vital role of pharmacies in delivering healthcare services to the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28771/23]

Electric Vehicles

Michael Lowry

317. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport if he will outline his involvement to date with Tipperary County Council in the advancement of EV charging infrastructure for County Tipperary; if EV charging infrastructure will be installed in Templemore, County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28415/23]

Fiscal Policy

Michael Lowry

391. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Finance the Government's plans and policies for economic growth and fiscal stability; if he can explain the strategies being pursued to attract foreign investment, support small businesses, and create long-term job opportunities; if he will provide details on any recent tax reforms or incentives aimed at promoting economic development and addressing income inequality; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28546/23]

Departmental Strategies

Michael Lowry

472. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the Government's strategies and initiatives to promote economic growth, innovation and job creation in Ireland; the steps being taken to attract foreign investment, support local businesses and develop a skilled workforce; if he will provide details on the Government's plans to promote entrepreneurship, trade, and ensure a thriving and inclusive economy for the benefit of all citizens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28548/23]

Work Permits

Michael Lowry

473. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the Government's approach to work permits in Ireland, specifically the current guidelines and procedures for obtaining work permits for foreign nationals seeking employment opportunities in the country; if he will provide details on any recent developments or initiatives aimed at reviewing the critical skills occupations list, streamlining the work permit application process, and addressing labour market needs, given that the country is now considered to be at full employment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28553/23]

State Examinations

Michael Lowry

486. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education if she will require the State Examination Commission to use and distribute dyslexia-friendly exam papers to all dyslexic students sitting their Junior and Leaving Certificate examinations, regardless of their reasonable accommodations at State examinations (RACE) status; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27236/23]

Schools Building Projects

Michael Lowry

487. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education if she will provide an update on the building project of a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27250/23]

Education Policy

Michael Lowry

618. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education her efforts to enhance the quality of education in Ireland; the steps being taken to improve students' digital literacy skills, promote inclusive education and assist teachers in adapting to changing educational needs; the initiatives and policies in these areas that are being implemented; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28545/23]

Housing Policy

Michael Lowry

786. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the Government's approach to addressing Ireland's housing crisis; the measures being taken to increase affordable housing options, alleviate homelessness and ensure sustainable urban development; the progress in these areas; the upcoming initiatives aimed at addressing the housing challenges faced by individuals and communities across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28547/23]

An Garda Síochána

Michael Lowry

936. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Justice the resources allocated to An Garda Síochána; the Government's planned investments aimed at ensuring that An Garda Síochána has adequate resources and a modern Garda fleet of vehicles to effectively carry out their duties in maintaining law and order, preventing crime and protecting the safety of communities across Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28563/23]

Animal Slaughtering

Michael Lowry

994. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide an update on his efforts to protect Ireland's ritual (religious) slaughter practices in order that the meat industry can continue to supply meat to the Jewish and Islamic religious faiths in Ireland and throughout Europe (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28558/23]

Agriculture Supports

Michael Lowry

995. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the Government's efforts to promote sustainable agriculture, ensure food security, and support rural farmers in Ireland; the initiatives and policies being implemented to improve environmental stewardship, promote sustainable farming practises, and assist farmers in adopting sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural methods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28559/23]

Disease Management

Michael Lowry

1116. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health when a clinical care programme will be implemented to meet the requirements of patients with lung fibrosis; the resources that will be allocated to its implementation and delivery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27184/23]

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Michael Lowry

1225. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 176 of 10 May 2023, in relation to long-Covid and providing financial support for HSE personnel suffering from long-term-Covid illness and unable to work; if his Department has looked at all available options to support staff who are unable to return to work, given that the current scheme is due to end on 30 June this year; the additional financial support that will be offered to such staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27987/23]

Health Services

Michael Lowry

1322. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health the efforts being made to reduce medical treatment wait times, improve healthcare infrastructure, and ensure equitable healthcare provision across County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28544/23]

Rural Schemes

Michael Lowry

1390. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development further to Parliamentary Question No. 1620 of 21 March 2023, if she will provide an update on the RRDF Project funding for Cahir, County Tipperary; when the local authority will be able to draw down funds and begin work on the town centre renovation, car park, and library projects in Cahir; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27198/23]

State Examinations

Michael Lowry

64. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education the reason that her Department and the State Examinations Commission do not allow for extra examination time to be offered to students with dyslexia through the reasonable accommodations at State examinations (RACE) scheme; if she is aware of the recent campaign by an organisation (details supplied) that is supporting the need for RACE to be offered to students with dyslexia; if she agrees that continuing to deny these students RACE puts them at a disadvantage when sitting State examinations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26487/23]

Disabilities Assessments

Michael Lowry

35. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will verify the current and precise total number of children on waiting lists for assessment of need in CHO 5, south Tipperary and CHO 3, north Tipperary; the number of children waiting on historical waiting lists, the number of new applications, and the number of children or families still awaiting assessment following a preliminary team assessment review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26325/23]

Fire Service

Michael Lowry

358. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the steps his Department has taken to address the challenges of retaining part-time firefighters; when he will address the unsatisfactory employment terms and conditions for part-time firefighters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25563/23]

Fire Service

Michael Lowry

359. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the most recent engagement/meeting of the Fire Service National Oversight and Implementation Group took place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25564/23]

Fire Service

Michael Lowry

360. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of chief fire officers, senior assistant chiefs, fire officers, full-time firefighters and part-time firefighters in County Tipperary's fire service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25565/23]

Brexit Supports

Michael Lowry

568. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 542 of 16 May 2023, if he will provide the metrics used by officials in his Department to conclude that financial supports through the Brexit Adjustment Reserve Fund were inapplicable for the sheep farming sector, as he is aware, the sheep farming sector is one of the most affected sectors as a result of the UK's withdrawal from the EU; the additional financial provisions that he will provide to assist the sheep farming sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25924/23]

Third Level Education

Michael Lowry

797. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the status of the proposed new veterinary school at University Limerick (details supplied); whether he has fully reviewed the recommendations of a report from the Higher Education Authority, HEA, expert panel concerning the relative capacities of UL for the provision of additional veterinary training places; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25937/23]

School Accommodation

Michael Lowry

95. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education further to Parliamentary Question No. 552 of 18 April 2023, if she will confirm whether the assessment process for a school's (details supplied) additional accommodation scheme application is now complete; when a decision will be communicated to the school authority; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25077/23]

School Accommodation

Michael Lowry

291. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education if she will provide an update on the status of a two-classroom autism spectrum disorder, ASD, unit build at a school (details supplied), given that this school's tender report has been with her Department since 21 December 2022, and the successful builders currently have an opening in their schedule and are ready to begin construction as soon as the go-ahead is given; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24334/23]

School Transport

Michael Lowry

316. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education further to Parliamentary Question No. 253 of 27 April 2023, if she will confirm whether Bus Éireann has reviewed the school transport application in question to determine whether concessionary transport is available from the nearest pick-up point from their family home; if Bus Éireann has contacted the family directly in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24766/23]

Departmental Funding

Michael Lowry

660. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will investigate the case of a company (details supplied) regarding delayed payments from his Department's Ukrainian accommodation section; the reasons for these delays; if he can confirm whether his Department has contracted with a third party to manage such payments, or if these payments are managed in-house by Departmental staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24167/23]

Family Law Cases

Michael Lowry

400. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Justice when his Department will publish the parental alienation research study considering the draft report was received by his Department at the end of November 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23767/23]

Family Law Cases

Michael Lowry

401. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Justice if his Department has commenced a public consultation on the issue of parental alienation legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23768/23]

State Examinations

Michael Lowry

95. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education the reason the reasonable accommodations at certificate examinations (race) scheme does not apply to dyslexic pupils in Ireland; if she will support the request of an organisation (details supplied) that the State Examinations Commission reconsider its policy on reasonable accommodations for dyslexic students immediately in order to "help level the playing field" for examination this year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23505/23]

Agriculture Schemes

Michael Lowry

187. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has received correspondence from an organisation (details supplied) seeking his support and endorsement in the modifying of the reconstitution and underplanting scheme (RUS) to help farmers and landowners remove diseased ash trees that pose a safety risk to the public and road users on public roads; if the RUS scheme will be reconfigured to acknowledge the financial loss incurred; if he will consider the introduction of a financial support scheme to help farmers and landowners remove diseased ash trees for the safety of others; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23536/23]

International Protection

Michael Lowry

196. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will review correspondence from a company (details supplied) regarding delayed payments from the Ukrainian accommodation section of his Department; the reasons for these delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23357/23]

Energy Conservation

Michael Lowry

175. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when the low-cost loan scheme for energy upgrades will be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22968/23]

Road Projects

Michael Lowry

246. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport when adequate funding will be made available for structural repair works and a pedestrian bridge adjacent to Ardfinnan Bridge, County Tipperary, to allow traffic to resume on a two-way system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22983/23]

Housing Schemes

Michael Lowry

266. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Finance his plans to expand the help-to-buy scheme to include help for first-time buyers with the purchase of second-hand homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22752/23]

Illicit Trade

Michael Lowry

270. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Finance the number of prosecutions secured against those involved in tobacco smuggling in 2022; if he considers this level of prosecutions sufficient, in light of the recent Revenue Commissioners’ survey which found that 30% of tobacco products consumed in 2022 were non-Irish duty paid and illegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22943/23]

Illicit Trade

Michael Lowry

271. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Finance the measures he has in place to enforce adherence to duty-free travel allowances for tobacco and alcohol at Ireland’s ports and airports; and if he considers these enforcement measures adequate, in light of a recent Revenue Commissioners’ survey which found that 30% of tobacco products consumed in 2022 were non-Irish duty paid and illegal cigarettes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22944/23]

Illicit Trade

Michael Lowry

272. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that the cost to the Exchequer of illegal cigarettes in 2022 was approximately €384 million in lost excise and VAT receipts, a figure that represents an additional loss of €120 million when compared to 2021; the new measures he proposes to resolve the significant increases in illicit tobacco products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22945/23]

State Examinations

Michael Lowry

359. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education if an emergency request for reasonable accommodations at the Leaving Certificate examinations will be taken into account for a candidate (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23180/23]

Housing Schemes

Michael Lowry

433. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if flexibility will be granted on the 24-month vacancy criteria for the refurbishing vacant home grant scheme for an application by a person (details supplied) with Dublin City Council, given that this person will be living in the home as their principal primary residence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23169/23]

Departmental Schemes

Michael Lowry

458. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will review the case of a school (details supplied); if she is aware that this school now has a funding shortfall because the breakfast club is funding capped at 150 pupils; the additional funding that will be provided to this school to supplement this financial shortfall; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22708/23]

Brexit Supports

Michael Lowry

542. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 516 of 9 May 2023, if he will direct officials in his Department to develop a case study for the provision of financial support through the Brexit Adjustment Reserve Fund, given that the sheep sector is one of the most affected sectors as a result of the UK's withdrawal from the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22839/23]