Parliamentary questions

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]

Departmental Contracts

Michael Lowry

731. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health concerning the homecare sector which has been engaged in discussions with his Department and the HSE since December 2022 about homecare Tender 2023; the reason in December 2022, the HSE informed the sector they were not ready to go to market with the tender 2023, forcing homecare sector providers to agree to a second extension of the original tender 2018 through to 30 April 2023; the reason on 25 April, the HSE again informed homecare sector providers that they had not yet concluded the Tender 2023 and again informed providers they were unilaterally extending the arrangements yet again to 30 June 2023; if he will ensure a resolve to the situation is found as soon as possible, ensuring that Tender 2023 is not delayed again; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23168/23]

School Accommodation

Michael Lowry

190. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education further to Parliamentary Question No. 521 of 18 April 2023, if the form of acceptance is now with her Department; if this ASA project for a two-classroom SEN base has progressed to the next stage; if the review of the temporary accommodation application has been completed by her Department; the recent correspondence her Department has had with the school authority; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22306/23]

Special Educational Needs

Michael Lowry

78. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education if she will examine the case of a school (details supplied) which was approved for an extension to include an ASD unit that would accommodate over 12 special needs students; the status of the new ASD unit for the school; when construction will commence on the new school building; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21903/23]

School Transport

Michael Lowry

88. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education if she will provide an update on phases two and three of the ongoing school transport scheme review, which began in February 2021; if the review has made any recommendations to change the distance criteria eligibility for school transport (details supplied); if the school transport scheme review will consider reducing this distance to less than two kilometres; when the review finding of phases two and three will be released; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22129/23]

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Michael Lowry

176. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 325 of 09 March 2023, if the present special leave with pay scheme will be extended for eligible staff beyond 30 June 2023; if his Department examined all available options to support staff who are unable to return to work (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21938/23]

Special Educational Needs

Michael Lowry

277. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education if she will examine the case of a person (details supplied); when this student will be offered a primary school place in this special unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21246/23]

Brexit Supports

Michael Lowry

516. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a support package for the sheep sector can be established through the Brexit Adjustment Reserve Fund, given the extreme financial pressures faced by sheep farmers in Ireland; if he will direct officials in his Department to develop a case study for the provision of financial support through the 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. [21598/23]

School Accommodation

Michael Lowry

171. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education further to Parliamentary Question No. 521 of 18 April 2023, if he will provide an update on an additional school accommodation application for a school (details supplied); if her Department has all of the necessary documentation to make a decision on this application; when a final decision will be issued; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21001/23]

Travel Trade Sector

Michael Lowry

102. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport the number of people traveling to the UK from Ireland by air and by sea on an annual basis in 2020, 2021 and 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20626/23]

Hospital Charges

Michael Lowry

395. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health if he is personally aware that accounts for inpatient charges in public hospitals are referred to collection services within two months of non-payment from the date of issue of the invoice by the hospital; if this is standard practice; if he considers this appropriate practice (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20337/23]

Undocumented Irish in the USA

Michael Lowry

2. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the outcome of recent discussions he had with the President of the United States and the US authorities during the recent visit to Ireland regarding the need to regularise the status of the undocumented Irish in the US and have an appropriate visa programme put in place to protect them, and the progress made in relation to securing citizenship for them; if he will consider appointing an Irish Government representative who will be solely responsible for dealing with this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19795/23]

Tax Rebates

Michael Lowry

211. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that provision will be made to allow anyone who installed solar panels prior to 1 May 2023 to obtain a refund for the VAT they have previously paid, given that the VAT rate on the supply and installation of solar panels will drop to zero for private dwellings on 1 May 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20064/23]

Visa Applications

Michael Lowry

234. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department will provide more data on the reasons for the refusal of a visa for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20067/23]

School Transport

Michael Lowry

253. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education if she will investigate the reason two school transport applications for post-primary students (details supplied) who are otherwise eligible for school transport but are attending their second nearest school and have applied for school bus tickets to their second nearest school were denied bus tickets by Bus Éireann due to their not attending their nearest school; if she will clarify and confirm the criteria Bus Éireann should use in such circumstances; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19999/23]

Forestry Sector

Michael Lowry

282. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the specific policy or piece of legislation that prevents the afforestation of lands designated as geological sites in county development plans with species composition comprising 80% conifer and 20% broadleaves; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20114/23]

Forestry Sector

Michael Lowry

283. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the specific policy or piece of legislation that prevents the afforestation of land designated in the County Galway development plan as a county geological site with species composition comprising 80% conifers and 20% broadleaves; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20115/23]

Foreign Birth Registration

Michael Lowry

30. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 232 of 23 March 2023, if he will confirm if the Foreign Births Office has received the additional supporting documents from the applicants; when a decision on these applications is expected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19685/23]

Road Projects

Michael Lowry

163. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport if he has received correspondence (details supplied) requesting additional funding to progress phase 3 of the N24 Cahir to Limerick Junction Project; his efforts to ensure that this road project is allocated the appropriate funding as soon as possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19453/23]

Departmental Data

Michael Lowry

430. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Justice further to Parliamentary Question No. 164 of 29 March 2023, when he will make the reports by the Firearms Expect Committee available in full; when his Department will convene a broader consultation process with firearms stakeholders to address any recommended policy or legislative changes resulting from the committee’s final report and recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19577/23]

Official Engagements

Michael Lowry

438. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 1552 of 21 March 2023, if he will outline the number of engagements he or his officials have had with the relevant Algerian ministry regarding plans for a sanitary agreement to be established between Ireland and Algeria for dairy and infant formula; the most recent engagements he or his officials have had on the matter; if he will indicate the timelines for the implementation of the agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19117/23]

Coillte Teoranta

Michael Lowry

450. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will confirm that the Coillte group is fully committed to keeping a company (details supplied) as a wholly owned subsidiary; if he will confirm that the Coillte group does not intend selling this subsidiary to an external third party; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19468/23]

Forestry Sector

Michael Lowry

122. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide compensation, reconstitution grant aid and annual forest premiums for forest owners impacted with the fatal Ash dieback disease and if so, when; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18535/23]

Forestry Sector

Michael Lowry

136. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has plans to provide immediate financial assistance to the private forestry sector given the failure of his Department to ensure the forestry programme was introduced in January 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18536/23]

EU Directives

Michael Lowry

137. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when he will revisit the Nitrates Derogation Condition in accordance with the agreement reached with the European Commission to hold an interim review of the Nitrates Action Programme in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18534/23]

Road Safety

Michael Lowry

166. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport to provide a list of all the locations on the N24 under the management of Tipperary County Council where Transport Infrastructure Ireland have found safety issues and asked Tipperary County Council in the past five years to do feasibility and options reports for road safety and improvement works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18655/23]

Driver Test

Michael Lowry

167. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport the reason a person (details supplied) estimated week of invitation to apply for their driving test not until 10 September 2023; the reason for the delay in driving tests; his plans to reduce the lengthy wait-times experienced by those seeking to sit their driving test; when the wait-time can be expected to return to normal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18656/23]

Business Supports

Michael Lowry

103. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if there are grants or funding assistance available for a new business (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18529/23]

Driver Test

Michael Lowry

242. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport the reasons a person's estimated week of invitation to apply for their driving test is being pushed out (details supplied); the reason for the delay in driving tests; his plans to reduce the lengthy wait-times experienced by those seeking to sit their driving test; when the wait-time can be expected to return to normal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16469/23]

Tax Code

Michael Lowry

358. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Finance concerning the current rate of tax concessions associated with tax relief for health insurance premiums, the present tax relief available is equivalent to the lesser of the following: 20% of the policy's cost or 20% of €1,000 which is equivalent to a maximum €200 credit, given the increased cost of health insurance premiums and as this tax concession currently stands at the basic income tax rate of 20%, would he consider reinstating it to the higher rate of 40% tax relief; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16644/23]

Fiscal Policy

Michael Lowry

374. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide an update on the impact of the implementation of Pillar One and Two rules on the Exchequer; his plans to reduce any negative impacts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16982/23]

Fiscal Policy

Michael Lowry

375. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Finance if his Department perceives the EU directive on Pillar Two rules as being a risk to long-term tax stability and certainty in Ireland, if other EU Member States were to advocate for a minimum corporation tax rate that would be higher than 15% in the future; how the Exchequer will manage such a risk; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16983/23]

Public Procurement Contracts

Michael Lowry

467. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if he will outline how the SME Advisory Group purports to address the issues affecting SME participation in public procurement and to understand how representative bodies, that are not included on the group, can make submissions on operational matters that impact them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17179/23]

Employment Rights

Michael Lowry

492. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when he will honour the terms of the employment regulation order for the security industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18036/23]

School Accommodation

Michael Lowry

521. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education if she will explain why a school (details supplied) has received communication from her Department that funding allocated to the school in 2021 to obtain two SEN classrooms and prefabbed rental accommodation is being completely revoked; if the decision to revoke funding to this school will be reviewed given the circumstances outlined in the attached documents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17008/23]

School Accommodation

Michael Lowry

552. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education if she will detail the contact her Department has had with a school (details supplied) regarding an additional accommodation scheme application; if she will provide an update and give assurance in relation to the accommodation needed at this school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17440/23]

School Accommodation

Michael Lowry

622. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education if she will provide an update on an additional school accommodation scheme application from a school (details supplied); if additional accommodation will be provided to this school in view of the circumstances outlined; if she will clarify that funding is available for such projects; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18340/23]

School Facilities

Michael Lowry

626. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education the status of an application by a school (details supplied); if additional emergency accommodation will be provided to this school in view of the circumstances; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16361/23]

Probation and Welfare Service

Michael Lowry

999. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Justice the additional resources that will be made available to the Probation Service and other relevant organisations in order to guarantee that the transfer of sentenced people on temporary release runs smoothly and without delays; the reason a person (details supplied) who is approved and waiting on immediate temporary release cannot obtain an appointment with the Probation Service until June 2023, therefore delaying their temporary release by seven weeks; if he agrees that such delays are having a negative impact on the prison system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17677/23]

Citizenship Applications

Michael Lowry

1018. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Justice if his Department will assist a person (details supplied) who is attempting to apply for citizenship but does not meet the 150 points needed on the 'scorecard' system for assessing their identification and residence history; if his Department can furnish guidelines of what extra information is required from a person to make up the deficit in points to enable the applicant to meet the necessary threshold of 150 scorecard points; if his Department will accept a sworn affidavit; if so, what is required in a sworn affidavit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17986/23]

Timber Supply

Michael Lowry

1091. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will take the time to review correspondence (details supplied) and request a derogation from legalisation that will forbid production of creosote fencing products from April 2023 because the market for timber fencing has not yet caught up with regulations, such a derogation would prevent a severe shortage of high-quality timber fencing products in the country and reduce the need to import product from outside of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16956/23]

Disability Services

Michael Lowry

1228. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he is aware that the two senior psychologists working in CHO5 children’s disability network team, Clonmel, have both issued notice of their intent to resign and will be vacating their posts in the coming weeks; the efforts his Department will take to guarantee that these senior psychologist positions are filled immediately in order that the senior psychologist vacancies do not impact on the CHO5 CDNT waiting lists/times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16869/23]