Questions and answers published after July 2012 can be viewed here. Viewing by Government Department is possible by term or specific dates from March 2016 onwards. Written answers are published as received from departments. To see parliamentary questions published before July 2012, search in Dáil debates.
Questions and answers for all sittings
Page 3 of 5
Tue, 23 Apr 2013
written
Mortgage Arrears Proposals
Nicky McFadden
249. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Finance the actions being taken to ensure that banks adequately engage with customers in relation to mortgage arrears; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18906/13]
Tue, 23 Apr 2013
written
School Staffing
Nicky McFadden
263. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a school (details supplied) in County Westmeath will be provided with a language support teacher; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18384/13]
Tue, 23 Apr 2013
written
Modern Language Teaching
Nicky McFadden
278. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will outline the current status of the provision of foreign languages that exists across the Irish education system at primary, secondary and tertiary level; the efforts being made to improve language acquisition among Irish students, particularly in view of the strong demand among employers for multilingual graduates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18769/13]
Tue, 23 Apr 2013
written
National Lottery Funding Disbursement
Nicky McFadden
305. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the natural environment will be added to the list of purposes to which National Lottery funds may apply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18910/13]
Tue, 23 Apr 2013
written
Beef Industry Irregularities
Nicky McFadden
541. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if EU wide DNA testing of meat will be made a permanent feature of the meat processing industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18786/13]
Tue, 23 Apr 2013
written
Child Care Services Inquiry
Nicky McFadden
566. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will outline the progress being made in relation to the development of infrastructure for after school services; the extension of subsidies for after school services and raising quality standards; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18813/13]
Tue, 23 Apr 2013
written
Child Care Services Provision
Nicky McFadden
567. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will outline the progress being made in relation to reforming the qualification requirements for workers in early care and education services and regulation, supported by a training fund; the progress being made in relation to reform of the inspection system; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18814/13]
Tue, 23 Apr 2013
written
Hospital Facilities
Nicky McFadden
604. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the development of a new acute admission and inpatient unit at St. Loman's Hospital, Mullingar, County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18530/13]
Tue, 23 Apr 2013
written
Disability Support Services Provision
Nicky McFadden
617. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the measures being taken to increase the capacity and potential of persons with disabilities to participate in the labour market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18716/13]
Tue, 23 Apr 2013
written
Disability Support Services
Nicky McFadden
633. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if national Health Information Quality Authority standards for residential care in the area of disability services will be implemented this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18810/13]
Tue, 23 Apr 2013
written
Ambulance Service Provision
Nicky McFadden
634. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the progress being made in relation to the reform of ambulance services and the management and delivery of pre hospital care services; if he will outline the way the further €12 million investment in the area will be allocated in 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18812/13]
Tue, 23 Apr 2013
written
Patient Transport Provision
Nicky McFadden
645. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if adequate transport will be provided to a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath to travel to necessary hospital appointments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18912/13]
Thu, 18 Apr 2013
written
Divorce Process
Nicky McFadden
196. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will outline the rationale for the current four year period required for divorce in Ireland; if the process will be amended to facilitate a single court process (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18058/13]
Wed, 17 Apr 2013
written
Banking Sector Staff
Nicky McFadden
88. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Finance his views on correspondence (details supplied) from ordinary bank workers in response to the Mercer Report; if he will acknowledge the importance of separating the treatment of ordinary bank workers from senior executives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17796/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Special Educational Needs Service Provision
Nicky McFadden
385. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills the measures that could be taken to increase the number of persons with a disability who complete second and third level education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16133/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Public Procurement Regulations
Nicky McFadden
463. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills his policy in relation to the procurement of school supplies; if procurement has been centralised; if he will acknowledge the potentially adverse impact on local stationery suppliers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17113/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Parliamentary Inquiries
Nicky McFadden
523. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the way in which an effective and legally robust parliamentary banking inquiry will be undertaken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16734/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Housing Adaptation Grant Applications
Nicky McFadden
758. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will outline the current options available to older persons who seek financial assistance to adapt their homes; if he will acknowledge the importance of ensuring that older persons homes are adequately adapted to suit their needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16132/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Property Taxation Exemptions
Nicky McFadden
762. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will outline the rationale for deeming only part of an estate (details supplied) in County Westmeath eligible for a waiver from the local property tax; if the entire estate will be waived from the tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16226/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Building Regulations Application
Nicky McFadden
776. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the Architects Registration Body published its 2010, 2011 and 2012 annual reports as stipulated in section 73 of the Building Control Act 2007; if published, if these reports may be viewed by the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16410/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Garda Civilianisation Process
Nicky McFadden
870. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will provide an update on the progress being made in the civilianisation of Garda Command and Control in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16081/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Child Abduction
Nicky McFadden
881. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the measures taken to address the issue of parental child abduction; his views on the role that mediation can play in reaching lasting agreements; if he will provide an update on the current status of the Mediation Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16178/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
EU Regulations
Nicky McFadden
991. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will outline the rationale for the implementation of the EU Timber Regulation 995/2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16181/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Forestry Sector
Nicky McFadden
1001. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the report of the Irish Timber Council which sets out views on the proposed sale of Coillte's harvesting rights; if he has considered the contents of the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16444/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Departmental Strategies
Nicky McFadden
1081. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if the development of socially funded child care, after-school care and community-based education programmes will form part of the Irish social investment strategy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16200/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Cancer Screening Programmes
Nicky McFadden
1135. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health the hospitals in which the Oncotype DX test is available for patients; if he will outline the benefits of this test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16129/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Services for People with Disabilities
Nicky McFadden
1136. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health the measures that have been taken by his Department to constructively engage with groups representing persons with disabilities and to communicate on issues affecting persons with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16131/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Disabilities Services Funding
Nicky McFadden
1139. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if personal assistant services for persons with disabilities will be maintained at the same level as that provided in 2012; if he will outline in detail the way the additional funding of €4 million to address the service needs of school-leavers in 2013 is allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16147/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Alcohol Advertising
Nicky McFadden
1140. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the extent of communication that has taken place between his Department and the drinks industry in relation to taking positive action to address alcohol misuse and to discuss the issues surrounding sponsorship and advertising; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16179/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Thalidomide Victims Compensation
Nicky McFadden
1141. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he has met with the Irish Thalidomide Association and the Irish Thalidomide Survivors Society; if he will provide an update on those meetings; the progress being made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16180/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Disability Allowance Eligibility
Nicky McFadden
1169. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the membership of the review group to discuss options in relation to alternatives to the mobility allowance and motorised transport grant; if any of those members specifically represent the end user of disability services; if a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath will be considered for inclusion on the group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16387/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Hospital Waiting Lists
Nicky McFadden
1179. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if a date can be confirmed for the medical procedure in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16436/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Air Ambulance Service Provision
Nicky McFadden
1203. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure that the interests of patient care and local communities are taken into account as part of the upcoming review on the aero medical service pilot programme based at Custume Baracks, Athlone; if all stakeholders will be made part of the consultation process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16583/13]
Tue, 16 Apr 2013
written
Medical Register Administration
Nicky McFadden
1284. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the rationale for the requirement that doctors registered on supervised division of the medical register apply for transfer to general division after two years by completing a pre-registration exam system; if he will consider correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17114/13]
Wed, 27 Mar 2013
written
Gender Proofing of Policies
Nicky McFadden
84. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will outline the results of the 57th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women held earlier this month; the actions and best practices outlined in the agreed conclusions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15430/13]
Tue, 26 Mar 2013
written
VAT Rates
Nicky McFadden
217. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Finance if he will examine the VAT charge of 23% on the purchase of school books in electronic format in comparison to a 0% VAT charge on paper format schoolbooks (details supplied); if the system will be modified to ensure equity and fairness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15172/13]
Tue, 26 Mar 2013
written
Student Grant Scheme Eligibility
Nicky McFadden
268. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills if financial assistance is available for students who were brought up in care; if he will outline the way this assistance may be applied for; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15161/13]
Tue, 26 Mar 2013
written
Broadband Services Provision
Nicky McFadden
360. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide information on the current standard of broadband provided to second level schools in Longford and Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15175/13]
Tue, 26 Mar 2013
written
Garda Vetting of Personnel
Nicky McFadden
447. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has received correspondence from a company (details supplied) in relation to difficulties when seeking Garda vetting for prospective employees; if the matter will be resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15173/13]
Tue, 26 Mar 2013
written
Guthrie Cards Retention
Nicky McFadden
557. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health the current position in relation to the retention/destruction of newborn screening card blood samples, also known as Guthrie cards; if he will acknowledge the important genetic information provided by these cards to obtain genetic diagnosis and detect cardiac conditions; if the issue could be dealt with in the upcoming Human Tissue Bill so that both data protection requirements and the protection of blood samples can be taken into account; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14982/13]
Tue, 26 Mar 2013
written
Neuro-Rehabilitation Services Provision
Nicky McFadden
578. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he has considered the recent Neurorehabilitation Manifesto from the Neurological Alliance of Ireland in relation to the neurorehabilitation strategy and protection of funding to not for profit organisations that provide neurorehabiliatation supports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15186/13]
Wed, 20 Mar 2013
oral
Hospital Acquired Infections
Nicky McFadden
50. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health the measures that have been taken to tackle MRSA in Midland Regional Hospital, Mullingar, County Westmeath; the impact of these measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14284/13]
Wed, 20 Mar 2013
written
Driving Licences
Nicky McFadden
575. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a review of the proposed process to transfer responsibility of processing of all driving licence applications to SGS will take place to investigate the role for scanned photographs within the SAFE2 process; if the photography industry can co-exist with SGS as part of the new driving licence procedure in order to protect the welfare of the photo ID industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13903/13]
Tue, 12 Mar 2013
written
EU Directives
Nicky McFadden
167. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Finance if he will outline the details of the EU agreement on capping bankers' bonuses; when the agreement will come into effect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12534/13]
Tue, 12 Mar 2013
written
School Accommodation
Nicky McFadden
218. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding accommodation works at a school (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12645/13]
Tue, 12 Mar 2013
written
National Lottery Licence Sale
Nicky McFadden
267. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the 6% retail agents' margin will be ringfenced in the National Lottery Bill 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12659/13]
Tue, 12 Mar 2013
written
Foreign Direct Investment
Nicky McFadden
281. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the way the intellectual property protocol here contributes to the country's attractiveness as a location for foreign direct investment, particularly in the areas of ICT and research and development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12579/13]
Tue, 12 Mar 2013
written
Joint Labour Committees Abolition
Nicky McFadden
284. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he has considered the recommendation of Retail, Grocery, Dairy and Allied Traders Association to abolish the retail grocery JLC, the assertion that independent grocers should be subject to the same minimum wage rates and employment conditions as all other retailers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12660/13]
Tue, 12 Mar 2013
written
Ministerial Meetings
Nicky McFadden
312. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will provide detail on the recent EU EPSCO Council meeting and the agreement reached on an EU youth guarantee; the way a guarantee scheme will provide young persons with better labour market prospects; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12557/13]
Tue, 12 Mar 2013
written
Energy Schemes Issues
Nicky McFadden
378. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will outline proposals for the residential sector to transition from the retrofit scheme to a new pay as you save financing model; the way this transition will impact on the homeowner in terms of benefits and ability to finance home improvements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12543/13]
Tue, 12 Mar 2013
written
Proposed Legislation
Nicky McFadden
463. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will provide an update on progressing the Charities Act 2009; if a charities regulatory authority will be established to ensure accountability and public confidence in the charity sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12550/13]
Tue, 12 Mar 2013
written
Mobility Allowance Decision
Nicky McFadden
580. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health the way an alternative scheme to the mobility allowance and motorised transport grant will be administered; if he will ensure that current funding levels will be maintained; the organisations he has met with in order to develop an alternative scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12317/13]
Tue, 12 Mar 2013
written
Hospital Services
Nicky McFadden
598. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure that any proposals for hospital groupings in the Midlands will not adversely impact services currently provided at Midlands Regional Hospitals including Mullingar and that patient care and provision of adequate services will not be compromised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12504/13]
Tue, 12 Mar 2013
written
Alcohol Pricing
Nicky McFadden
618. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on proposals for minimum pricing of alcohol; if restrictions on advertising alcohol promotions will be put in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12657/13]
Thu, 7 Mar 2013
written
Gender Equality
Nicky McFadden
61. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the way in which we can ensure that the Commission on the Status of Women taking place in March affirms Ireland's and the EU's commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12129/13]
Thu, 7 Mar 2013
written
Tax Code
Nicky McFadden
69. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Finance if he has considered the Certified Public Accounts Ireland Entrepreneurship Report for 2012; his views on the recommendations to provide a more equitable treatment of entrepreneurs under the tax system to award tax credits to investors in business which can only be claimed against dividends realised from that business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12140/13]
Thu, 7 Mar 2013
written
School Curriculum
Nicky McFadden
87. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has considered the Certified Public Accountants Ireland Entrepreneurship Report for 2012; his views on the recommendation to introduce entrepreneurship as a subject to the curriculum for primary and secondary students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12130/13]
Thu, 7 Mar 2013
written
Action Plan for Jobs
Nicky McFadden
111. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he has considered the Certified Public Accountants Ireland Entrepreneurship Report for 2012; his views on the recommendation to introduce a national skills register to allow employers to find the right persons with the required skills; the recommendation to introduce specific promotional and support programmes to address the low level of entrepreneurship amongst women; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12131/13]
Thu, 7 Mar 2013
written
Imports Statistics
Nicky McFadden
112. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide information on imports from China in 2012 in relation to import value, details of the types of products being imported; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12146/13]
Thu, 7 Mar 2013
written
Local Government Reform
Nicky McFadden
165. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the programme for reform of local government will include improving communication directly between citizens and the agencies or Departments delivering the relevant local services; if greater clarity will be provided to citizens in relation to which level or agency of Government is responsible for delivering particular services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12141/13]
Thu, 7 Mar 2013
written
Domestic Violence Policy
Nicky McFadden
185. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the way the recently secured agreement with the European Parliament on improving the protection of victims of domestic violence across Europe will enable victims and other vulnerable persons to have continuity of protection under the law when they move between Member States; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12150/13]
Thu, 7 Mar 2013
written
Child Poverty
Nicky McFadden
224. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the measures that will be taken between her Department and the Department of Social Protection to end child poverty here, in line with the new EU recommendations Investing in Children: Breaking the Cycle of Disadvantage 2013; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12142/13]
Thu, 7 Mar 2013
written
Adoption Legislation
Nicky McFadden
225. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she has considered the recommendations of the Adoption Rights Alliance regarding adoption legislation; if measures will be taken to address the 44 recommendations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12143/13]
Thu, 7 Mar 2013
written
Child Protection Issues
Nicky McFadden
232. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the way child protection and foster care services will be improved, particularly in the areas of staffing levels and supervision; if she will provide an update on the standard of provision of child protection and foster care services in Counties Longford and Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12239/13]
Thu, 7 Mar 2013
written
Rural Transport Services Provision
Nicky McFadden
267. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for the delivery of rural transport in County Westmeath in 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12121/13]
Tue, 5 Mar 2013
written
Social Welfare Benefits Eligibility
Nicky McFadden
294. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Social Protection the current supports available to self-employed business people who have been forced to close their businesses; if better supports will be made available to assist the self-employed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11514/13]
Tue, 5 Mar 2013
written
Medical Aids and Appliances Provision
Nicky McFadden
570. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if the necessary orthotic footwear will be made available to a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11495/13]
Thu, 28 Feb 2013
written
Social Welfare Appeals Delays
Nicky McFadden
137. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will provide an update on current efforts to reduce the social welfare appeals backlog; if she will acknowledge the strain the current backlogs are placing on individuals and families; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10738/13]
Thu, 28 Feb 2013
written
Social and Affordable Housing Provision
Nicky McFadden
174. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of properties in counties Longford and Westmeath that have been identified by the National Asset Management Agency for use as social housing; if he has communicated with the local authorities on the availability of NAMA property for the purpose of providing social housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10843/13]
Thu, 28 Feb 2013
written
Building Regulations Application
Nicky McFadden
175. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will defer signing new regulations for a mandatory building certificate system under the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations Act 2013 until the forthcoming report from the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Environment, Culture and Gaeltacht is studied; if he has considered the architects alliance paper on self-certification; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10850/13]
Thu, 28 Feb 2013
written
Health Services Provision
Nicky McFadden
219. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health the actions he will take in order to adequately resource the neuro-rehabilitation strategy; if he will address the lack of neuro-rehabilitation services to match the needs of the 700,000 persons with a neurological condition living here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10740/13]
Thu, 28 Feb 2013
written
Taxi Regulations
Nicky McFadden
235. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason for prohibiting the transfer of vehicle licences under the new Taxi Regulation Bill, in view of the fact that it is the PSV licence that determines a person's suitability to carry out the function and not the vehicle licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10735/13]
Tue, 26 Feb 2013
written
Control of Dogs
Nicky McFadden
438. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide an update on recent contact with farming representatives regarding the promotion of responsible dog ownership, particularly in order to reduce the level of sheep worrying taking place in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9693/13]
Tue, 26 Feb 2013
written
National Substance Misuse Strategy
Nicky McFadden
491. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will give statutory effect to Section 9 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2008 which provides for the structural separation of alcohol products from other products in supermarkets, convenience stores, petrol stations and any other licensed premises which are deemed to be mixed-trading; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9843/13]
Tue, 26 Feb 2013
written
Taxi Regulations
Nicky McFadden
749. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath is entitled to transfer their vehicle and taxi plate to their child; if he will outline the areas of regulation that deal with vehicle and licence transfer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9851/13]
Thu, 21 Feb 2013
written
Overseas Development Aid Provision
Nicky McFadden
62. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will outline the steps taken by his Department to ensure stronger accountability in relation to overseas aid provision; if he will ensure that the aid provided is being used in the correct way and to directly help those most in need; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9288/13]
Thu, 21 Feb 2013
written
Drug Treatment Programmes Availability
Nicky McFadden
224. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will outline his policy towards the estimated 10,000 methadone users here; if more funding will be allocated to the small number of non-profit organisations providing detoxification programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9292/13]
Thu, 21 Feb 2013
written
Prescription Charges
Nicky McFadden
226. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will consider certain exemptions from the increased prescriptions charges, particularly for vulnerable groups such as asylum seekers, older persons and persons with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9302/13]
Thu, 21 Feb 2013
written
Medical Aids and Appliances Provision
Nicky McFadden
234. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will commit to ensuring a specific timeframe is given for the provision of bilateral cochlear implants for children, particularly for children who already have one implant; if he will provide an update on progress being made between the Health Service Executive and Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9337/13]
Wed, 20 Feb 2013
written
Special Educational Needs Service Provision
Nicky McFadden
121. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a child with Down's syndrome can automatically qualify for resource hours and a special needs assistant to help them progress through mainstream school; his views on the importance of ensuring that children with Down's syndrome are provided with the necessary resources and assistance in order that they can participate and develop in an inclusive educational system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9012/13]
Wed, 20 Feb 2013
written
School Curriculum
Nicky McFadden
135. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills the way the ICT infrastructure can be further developed in schools in order to progress students' digital literacy skills; his views on the importance of digital literacy skills, particularly in relation to employment opportunities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9253/13]
Wed, 20 Feb 2013
written
Higher Education Grants Eligibility Criteria
Nicky McFadden
136. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will ensure that eligibility for third level grants will continue to be calculated on the basis of earned income, that the value of assets used to earn this income is not made part of this assessment and that children of farming families are not prevented from progressing to third level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9254/13]
Wed, 20 Feb 2013
written
EU Funding
Nicky McFadden
139. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the funding allocated to the border, midlands and western region through EU structural funds; his views on the importance of ensuring continued adequate support for the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9143/13]
Wed, 20 Feb 2013
written
National Lottery Funding Disbursement
Nicky McFadden
140. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will consider ring-fencing a special national lottery draw with a view to raising funds for the National Children's Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9157/13]
Wed, 20 Feb 2013
written
Flood Prevention Measures
Nicky McFadden
143. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the temporary defence measures, in advance of the completion of the CFRAM study, that will be put in place to manage flooding on the River Shannon; the progress being made between the Office of Public Works and the relevant authorities to deal with the issue of flooding on the River Shannon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9266/13]
Wed, 20 Feb 2013
written
Food Safety Authority Inspections
Nicky McFadden
204. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if EU-wide regulation of the meat industry will include compulsory DNA testing carried out by the relevant authorities in each State; if this testing will be carried out on an unannounced inspection basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9258/13]
Wed, 20 Feb 2013
written
Common Agricultural Policy Reform
Nicky McFadden
205. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will outline the specific detail of the new green criteria which will be linked to 30% of the national payment ceiling as proposed by the EU Commission; the way this criteria will affect and benefit farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9261/13]
Wed, 20 Feb 2013
written
Hospital Staff
Nicky McFadden
238. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if the necessary five nursing personnel and two EEG technologists will be recruited by the Health Service Executive in order that the epilepsy units in Cork and Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, may be opened and provide a round the clock inpatient service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9153/13]
Thu, 14 Feb 2013
written
Accident and Emergency Departments Waiting Times
Nicky McFadden
99. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health the actions taken to tackle overcrowding and the use of trolleys in the accident and emergency department in Midland Regional Hospital, Mullingar, County Westmeath, and the impact of these measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7559/13]
Thu, 14 Feb 2013
written
Education Schemes
Nicky McFadden
161. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of persons in Westmeath who have so far applied for and are taking part in Springboard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7969/13]
Thu, 14 Feb 2013
written
Back to School Costs
Nicky McFadden
181. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Education and Skills in view of a recent survey which estimates back to school costs at €487 for primary school children and €620 for secondary school students, the practical steps that could be taken to reduce back to school costs, particularly in the areas of school uniforms, books and voluntary contributions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7971/13]
Thu, 14 Feb 2013
written
Garda Stations Refurbishment
Nicky McFadden
190. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position regarding the proposed new building of the Garda barracks in Athlone, County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7963/13]
Thu, 14 Feb 2013
written
Social Welfare Eligibility
Nicky McFadden
207. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Social Protection if a review and impact assessment of the habitual residence condition will be concluded in relation to ethnicity and gender; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7808/13]
Thu, 14 Feb 2013
written
Employment Support Services
Nicky McFadden
220. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons in Westmeath who have so far applied for and are taking part in Tús and JobBridge programmes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7969/13]
Thu, 14 Feb 2013
written
Mortgage Arrears Proposals
Nicky McFadden
221. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will outline recent developments and proposals in relation to tackling the issue of mortgage arrears and personal debt; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7970/13]
Thu, 14 Feb 2013
written
Wind Energy Guidelines
Nicky McFadden
246. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will ensure that adequate guidelines are put in place before wind turbines are erected in the midlands in order that issues of concern including distance, location, height and noise levels can be given due consideration and attention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7956/13]
Thu, 14 Feb 2013
written
Local Government Reform
Nicky McFadden
250. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will ensure that local development companies will continue to have a significant role in local development; if he will outline the way in which alignment of local government and local development may develop a positive partnership approach to bring more effective delivery of service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7789/13]
Thu, 14 Feb 2013
written
Wind Energy Guidelines
Nicky McFadden
256. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the deadline for public submissions in relation to wind farm development in the midlands will be extended to allow adequate time for interested parties to make contributions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7962/13]
Thu, 14 Feb 2013
written
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Nicky McFadden
258. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide an update on progress being made in relation to Ireland's greenhouse gas mitigation target for 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7972/13]
Thu, 14 Feb 2013
written
Departmental Strategies
Nicky McFadden
268. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if a revised national Traveller Roma integration strategy will be developed with the active participation of Travellers, Roma, wider civil society and regional and local authorities to address the gaps in the previously submitted strategy identified by the European Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7809/13]